Standout luxury properties have what it takes to be star of the show, writes Nancy Groves Santa Fe, New Mexico | Sotheby’s International Realty – Santa Fe – 326 Grant Avenue Brokerage The real estate mantra “location, location, location” acquires higher meaning for some luxury homes on the market. While any property that isn’t brand new has a history—sometimes across generations of ownership—it’s a rare private home that can lay claim to being a filming location for the large or smaller screen. Location is “the biggest background player of them all, hiding in plain sight,” writes journalist Rebecca Liu in a deep dive on the art of location scouting. But especially in this golden era of television, key locations are immortalized not just on an hour or two of movie celluloid but often across multiple seasons of long-running shows. “Any actual home is far more evocative than a stage,” says veteran location manager Harriet Lawrence. “It has the patina, the texture of a real building, lived in by real people over time.” Some homes become star attractions themselves, while owning a piece of cultural heritage can be a strong draw for buyers. Here are five properties with filming backstories. Rancho Alegre, New Mexico Santa Fe, New Mexico | Sotheby’s International Realty – Santa Fe – 326 Grant Avenue Brokerage When a 178-acre adobe compound in New Mexico came to market this summer, coverage oscillated between its standout aesthetics and its brief but significant cameo in HBO’s “Succession.” It starred as the remote ranch of Logan Roy’s eldest son Connor, where the family gathers for their infamous group therapy session. Of course, the two are connected. “The setting is expansive and the main house exudes the uber-desirable feel of the west or southwest U.S.,” says Neil Lyon of Sotheby’s International Realty – Santa Fe Brokerage. Lyon says the home possesses “incredible scale with no possible way to miss it” and “a level of quality that could only be associated with great wealth and taste,” assuring its popularity with scouts. The 20,000 sq ft property has also featured in Adam Sandler’s “The Ridiculous 6,” sci-fi teen drama series “Roswell” and the murdery mystery series “Dark Winds.” Twilight Moon Ranch, Utah Oakley, Utah | Summit Sotheby’s International Realty – Park City Another ranch property, another state, but no less an illustrious television credit: for Paramount’s neo-Western drama “Yellowstone,” starring Kevin Costner. Utah’s Twilight Moon Ranch, built in 2014 on eight acres just a short drive from Park City, takes inspiration from the surrounding mountains for its architecture and interiors. While the “Yellowstone” filming focused mainly on its huge, light-filled kitchen, with seven bedrooms and nine bathrooms it makes a generous family home or rental. The home is being sold with all its contents—give or take a stuffed animal or two. Belain Farm, Ontario Caledon, Ontario | Sotheby’s International Realty Canada L.M. Montgomery’s beloved book “Anne of Green Gables” is set in the fictional town of Avonlea on the very real Prince Edward Island, Canada’s smallest province. But when scouts for the recent Netflix adaption “Anne with an E” were hunting for suitable locations, they landed some 1,000 miles west in Ontario. Belain Farm is a picturesque property that stands in for the family home of Anne’s best friend, Diana Barry. The central farmhouse exudes all the necessary charm, while its pond makes the perfect “Lake of Shining Waters,” as Anne herself calls it. 453 West 24th Street, New York New York, New York | Sotheby’s International Realty – East Side Brokerage As any “Sex in the City” fan will tell you, no tour of Carrie Bradshaw’s fictional life is complete without a photo op on a classic Manhattan stoop. While the listing for this 1849 red brick townhouse in West Chelsea keeps schtum on its exact screen credits, it epitomizes New York’s history and romance and frequently features on television. Maybe it’s the tree-lined street, elegant railings and floor-to-ceiling parlor windows. Or the private garden and balcony out back. Four main floors of living space are contained within, while hiding at basement level is a 5,000-bottle wine cellar. Spencer Hills House, California Mendocino, California | Mendo Sotheby’s International Realty The Californian coastal town of Mendocino has a rich cinematic history, thanks to its elegant architecture, cliffside setting and abundant greenery. But arguably it is best known as the West Coast stand-in for the East Coast town of Cabot Cove in the long-running TV series “Murder She Wrote,” now with a cult following. Spencer Hills House, home to the show’s Dr. Seth Hazlitt, is among the town’s finest properties. Built in 1855, it has all the design hallmarks of a Mendocino Victorian, from its custom trim to the wraparound veranda—star of many a dramatic scene. A luxury property’s filming history “solidifies its place and associations with intriguing events and people,” says Lyon. Practically, the exposure can lead to an audience of many millions. Emotionally, a sizable chunk of those viewers will be “blown away by its beauty and what it represents.” You’ve watched “The Odyssey.” Now visit the islands where Homer’s story is set
Serene and sophisticated, this 8,000-square-foot Hamptons residence—along with its heated pool, sun-washed terraces, and glorious grounds and gardens—is one of a very few homes in the prestigious Fordune Estate, founded by a scion of American icon Henry Ford. For more than a century, the Hamptons have drawn prominent members of society and distinguished dynasties. One of the most notable of these was the family of Henry Ford II, grandson of the automotive industry pioneer, who established his family’s 250-acre oceanfront compound in 1960, encompassing Channel Pond and other inlets near Mecox Bay as well as the dunes and sandy shoreline of Flying Point Beach. That property has since been transformed into a highly coveted gated community known as the Fordune Estate. Water Mill, New York| Michaela Keszler, Paulina Keszler, Sotheby’s International Realty – Southampton Brokerage Serene and sophisticated, this meticulously maintained and updated 8,000-square-foot home is one of a very few residences ensconced within that prestigious compound. Generous in scale and suffused by a bright, airy, open quality, it is a true oasis in a setting that is inextricably linked with its enviable prestigious surroundings. Designed in 1999 by architect Michael Goldman and reimagined in 2023 by esteemed Scottsdale-based designer Mathew Boland, the residence blends timeless style with distinctive contemporary flair, creating an ambience that is both urbane and inviting. The ideally proportioned living and entertaining spaces include formal living and dining rooms with soaring beamed ceilings and a library or den with a fireplace and built-in bookshelves. The cook’s kitchen boasts an island, custom cabinetry, a walk-in pantry, top-caliber appliances, and an office alcove; a light-filled family room with an outsize bay window adjoins. Opportunities for relaxing and gathering continue on the lower level, which offers a media room, a massage room, and generous storage, including a cedar-lined closet. The luxurious primary suite enjoys a convenient location on the main level; a truly restful retreat, it includes two walk-in closets and dressing rooms as well as an elegant marble-clad bath. Accompanied by a thoughtful coffee bar, three chic guest suites benefit from the privacy and treetop views of the uppermost level, while additional accommodations—for visitors or staff—are secluded on the lowest level. On the upper floor, a versatile unfinished wing of roughly 2,600 square feet could be adapted to serve as a studio, fitness or meditation space, or additional bedrooms. The landscapes of southern France serve as inspiration for the glorious 2.5-acre grounds and gardens. Beyond the vast, breezy screened porch are a heated gunite swimming pool with deck jets, sun-washed stone terraces, a walled garden with a classical fountain, a gazebo, a potting shed, swaths of impossibly lush lawn affording space for a tennis court, mature trees, and an array of vibrant flourishing flora. The adjoining protected reserve helps maintain an uninterrupted pastoral view and the sense of serene privacy. Fordune’s exclusive sandy ocean beach is minutes away, allowing a discerning new owner the opportunity to continue the Ford family’s tradition of a life of consummate seclusion and convenience in one of the most desirable seaside locales. Discover luxury homes for sale and rent around the world on sothebysrealty.com
Bridging the gap between indoor and outdoor living, the veranda’s versatility is part of its enduring allure, writes Elizabeth Fazzare Los Feliz, California | Sotheby’s International Realty – Beverly Hills Brokerage Outdoor living is one of summer’s greatest pleasures, but at the season’s height, strong daytime sun makes shade an absolute necessity. As early as the 1700s, homes in the American South counteracted the weather with a custom-built veranda: an open-air porch covered by an extension of the roof to provide quick relief from the heat and protection from rain and wind when required. This architectural element finds its roots across oceans in ancient dwellings from the Indian subcontinent. Its popularity later spread to British and subsequently American building design via colonial development. Today, in luxury residences across the United States, a veranda is still revered as the original manifestation of indoor-outdoor living, providing the flexibility to enjoy al fresco downtime and company, whatever the forecast. Purchase, New York | Julia B. Fee Sotheby’s International Realty “I think porches today have the same appeal as they did hundreds of years ago,” says architect Jeffrey Dungan, whose eponymous architecture and design studio is based in Mountain Brook, Alabama. “Verandas lend you the connection to the outdoors without the inconveniences that come with being truly outside.” Traditionally, a veranda wraps the front and sides of a house as “the de facto front door,” explains Dungan. It’s not only an inviting spot to cool off, but also “where you would entertain guests, like the Southern equivalent to a parlor in British homes.” To allow ample space under those eaves for entertaining, relaxing and even dining, the best examples are 14- to 15-feet deep, he advises. Hendersonville, North Carolina | Premier Sotheby’s International Realty The sweeping veranda of this nine-bedroom home in Hendersonville, North Carolina, has plenty of weatherproof square footage from which to admire the surrounding landscape. Originally built in 1855, the house was redesigned half a century later by Richard Sharp Smith, a supervisor on North Carolina’s landmark Biltmore Estate, while the gardens had input from Frederick Law Olmsted, the influential designer behind New York’s Central and Prospect Parks. Acknowledging both their contributions, the property is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Equally storied is a 1912-built estate in Purchase, New York, which was a key location for the 1969 film “Goodbye, Columbus,” based on the Philip Roth novella of the same name. It offers views of its more than 11 acres of park-like grounds from a veranda adjacent to its main living room. Although both these homes were constructed more than a century ago, their indoor-outdoor design schemes are still in high demand today. Johns Creek, Georgia | Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty “Buyers aren’t looking for another room as much as they’re looking for another way to enjoy the home,” says Paul Wegener, global real estate advisor at Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty. “A great veranda becomes part of everyday life. First cup of coffee, first glass of wine in the evening, the place to watch the kids play in the yard, or to sit and enjoy the beautiful view.” One of Wegener’s listings, a 1998-built six-bedroom home in Johns Creek, Georgia, has second-story verandas framing the entire rear facade that, in his words, “become another living room, just with fresh air.” The space is comfortably furnished with an abundance of cozy seating and carpets, oversized lanterns, and even a firepit. Los Feliz, California | Sotheby’s International Realty – Beverly Hills Brokerage In regions where rain is infrequent, an effective veranda might not need full coverage. Once owned by filmmaker Cecil B. DeMille, this 1913-built Hollywood estate fashions its rear-facing veranda like a pergola, allowing sunlight to pass through its slatted roof toward the six-bedroom house’s large windows. In our climate-conscious era, minimizing direct sun exposure avoids raising the interior temperature. “The veranda is the synaptic gap, or the connective tissue, between the interiors, the conditioned space of the house, and the outdoors,” says Dungan. For homebuyers, its enduring allure is both romantic and functional. “Spaces that allow you to connect to nature and your surroundings are so special,” he adds. Dream of waterside living? Enjoy the view from the world’s most beautiful boathouses
Wealth creation doesn’t stand still. As new fortunes are made, where that wealth resides also changes. Two recent reports offer a snapshot of the globe’s most affluent locations today—and where they could be in the future. North America currently hosts the greatest store of global wealth, with high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) accumulating a total of US$32.9TN by the end of 2025, according to the World Wealth Report 2026, published by Capgemini, June 4, 2026. That’s up 9.9% on 2024. However, Asia Pacific saw the fastest wealth acceleration between 2024 and 2025, according to the research, with 10.5% growth resulting in the region’s HNWIs holding US$29.7TN in 2025. Meanwhile, 2026 Global Wealth Report: The Great Reordering, published by Boston Consulting Group, May 27, 2026, focused solely on emerging market wealth. It predicts that financial wealth will increase by US$6.89TN across emerging markets between 2025 and 2030. India is set to lead this charge, according to the report, generating US$2.37TN in new financial wealth by 2030. It is followed by Brazil (US$1.08TN), and Mexico (US$0.55TN). “The affluent remain engaged and confident in the luxury housing market,” says Philip A. White Jr., president and CEO, Sotheby’s International Realty, in the company’s 2026 Mid-Year Luxury Outlook report. Cover Property: Greece Sotheby’s International Realty
Our monthly series asks: How do you bring color into luxury design? Navy blue is a classic for a reason, writes Jill Krasny Notting Hill, London | United Kingdom Sotheby’s International Realty Some homes leave a strong impression while others quickly fade from the mind. Almost always, the design and color scheme is a factor. Terracotta, an ancient hue that’s been used for centuries, works in contemporary and traditional spaces alike, while yellow and lilac, which are both enjoying a design moment, suit homes with more of a period feel. Navy—which our series on color in luxury design turns to next—is “ elegant, versatile and timeless” and has long been a staple in upscale homes, says Sarah Brown, a London-based interior designer. “It also has strong associations with traditional British decorating, from painted cabinetry and libraries to Victorian homes.” Hudson Valley, New York | Four Seasons Sotheby’s International Realty The color’s name derives from the fabric the British Royal Navy used for its officer uniforms once they began to source indigo pigment from India, says Joa Studholme, color curator for British paint maker Farrow & Ball. She points to the walls of The Wallace Collection, a historic museum house in London, which offer a stunning example of navy bringing out the rich details of the ornately framed artworks. Today, navy remains as popular as ever, thanks both to its versatility and the fact it presents a more lively alternative to other darker colors. “It pairs beautifully with warm neutrals, pinks and quite unexpectedly with greens,” says Brown, and “works best when balanced with contrast, texture and plenty of light.” Cape Elizabeth, Maine | Legacy Properties Sotheby’s International Realty A sprawling estate in Cape Elizabeth, Maine, proves Brown’s theory right with a grayish navy exterior that blends in with its verdant surroundings. “This is a hugely brave use of color,” says Studholme, “but it has certainly paid off. The house feels like it has always been there: the use of blue makes it feel at one with the greens of the landscape.” By contrast, a tastefully restored Victorian home in Notting Hill, London, uses navy to bring out the building’s historic character while creating a sense of cohesion from room to room. The high-gloss blue “creates a ribbon of color throughout the house,” says Studholme, and looks equally stunning on the joinery, door trims and built-ins. Hudson Valley, New York | Four Seasons Sotheby’s International Realty In Ulster Landing, an early 1800s estate in Hudson Valley, New York, a home office covered in navy patterned wallpaper feels suitably warm and inviting. That’s down to the dark blue used on the trim and the ceiling, says Studholme. Had white been used on either element, she says, “the look would have been compromised.” Elsewhere, in a living room, navy carpentry and doorframes contrast with the paler blue walls. Meanwhile, a striking mountain estate set on Sweden’s historic County Road 322, with buildings that date back to the 18th century, uses navy at several points in its updated design scheme. The color features most strikingly in the large, mostly open-storage kitchen, to accent the cabinetry. It also strikes a sophisticated note in some of the living spaces, via a bold patterned wallpaper, soft furnishings, bedding and bathroom tiles. Jämtland, Sweden | Sweden Sotheby’s International Realty In the kitchen, “it creates a strong visual element while allowing other parts of the room to stand out,” says Brown—and Studholme wholeheartedly agrees. “I love how this blue has been used on the cabinetry,” she says. “It is mostly below your eyeline so it doesn’t overwhelm in any way. The tone is harmonious with the raw wood floor, which complements the warmth of the wall color and brick perfectly.” Explore our Color Chart design series, from bold red, joyful pink, zingy orange and uplifting yellow to natural lilac, historic terracotta, classic green, calming white and versatile turquoise
With a careful touch, this 1923 color- and light-filled Spanish Revival residence has been rejuvenated to revere its architectural history while suiting the rhythms of a stylish contemporary Southern California life. With its unmistakable white stucco walls, red clay roof tiles, arched doorways and windows, and balconies with decorative iron railings, Spanish Revival style is a fixture of Southern California architecture. An ode to the area’s colonial roots, which trace back to the 1600s, it has evolved into an aesthetic practically synonymous with sunny, breezy, coastal L.A. With a careful touch, this 1923 residence—enjoying a lush private setting in the scenic hillside neighborhood of Los Feliz—has been painstakingly rejuvenated to pay homage to its origins while suiting the rhythms of contemporary life. Los Angeles, California| Sonya Coke, Sotheby’s International Realty – Los Feliz Brokerage Retaining its period character and layers of historical meaning, the 5,618-square-foot home is both striking and inviting, with modern living and entertaining spaces rich in color, texture, and glorious light. In the living room, a streamlined wood-burning fireplace, built-in bookshelves, walls ideal for displaying art, and a distinctive starburst chandelier are accompanied by windows that frame views of the front garden’s lavish greenery. Inspired by the mountains of Southern California, a dramatic hand-painted wall treatment from the specialists at Britain’s Fromental adds artful flair to the dining room. The delightful cook’s kitchen features lilac-hued cabinets, a spacious marble-topped island, and full complement of stainless-steel appliances; adjoining are a charming breakfast area and a relaxed den wrapped in windows. On the lowest level, a screening and family room—with a bath nearby—is swathed in rich jewel tones. Private quarters are secluded on the uppermost level. Vaulted ceilings with natural wood beams lend the primary suite an airy, lofty feel. Banks of windows offer views of treetops, blue sky, and the iconic downtown skyline in the distance. Attending the bedroom are an elegant bath with a glass-enclosed steamshower, a soaking tub, and a dual-sink vanity as well as a boutique-worthy walk-in closet. Each of the four guest bedrooms is equally calming, colorful, and filled with light. Throughout, iron railings, hardwood floors, ceiling beams, and vintage-inspired fixtures and fittings hint at the home’s provenance. The gated property has been tastefully landscaped using flourishing native flora along with vibrant bursts of bougainvillea. Towering trees create an oasis of greenery for the very private backyard, timeless flagstone terrace, and refreshing swimming pool. The charming guesthouse is a versatile space that could easily serve as an art studio, meditation room, office, or gym. Auto enthusiasts will appreciate the freestanding three-car garage tucked at the end of the gated drive. All in all, this estate proves to be a singular oasis, one that reveres architectural history while being anchored in modern living, with a lively spirit, colorful creative character, and peaceful spaces to satisfy virtually every age and interest. Discover luxury homes for sale and rent around the world on sothebysrealty.com
Japan’s luxury market continues to draw significant attention from high-net-worth buyers across Asia and beyond, attracted to the country’s stability, lifestyle appeal, and long-term investment potential. From trophy homes in Kyoto and prime residences in Tokyo, to sought-after resort destinations such as Niseko, Karuizawa, and Okinawa, international demand remains strong. Kantaro Aoki, Real Estate Advisor at List Sotheby’s International Realty, Japan, shares his perspective on the forces driving foreign buyers, and the opportunities he sees across Japan’s most desirable luxury real estate markets. Karuizawa Retreat, Nagano, Japan Among your buyers, would Japanese property be the top choice? If not, could you give me a sense of the demand for Japanese homes in your group? There is no doubt that Japanese real estate remains highly sought after globally. Overseas demand continues to be strong, and we have recently completed a number of transactions with clients from Southeast Asia, many involving budgets exceeding JPY 1 Billion. In addition to the strength of the Sotheby’s International Realty® brand, we receive a significant number of inquiries through our New York headquarters and our offices across Asia. We are also regularly introduced to clients by international banks, which reflects the high level of trust and confidence that global investors place in Japanese real estate. What is fueling this demand for Japanese property? Many buyers view Japan as a destination for portfolio diversification and typically acquire Japanese property as a second or subsequent overseas investment. Japan’s safety, cleanliness, political stability, and accessibility from other Asian countries are major attractions. Beyond investment considerations, buyers are also drawn to Japan’s food culture and wealth of tourism experiences. Many of our clients use Tokyo or Osaka as their primary base while enjoying extended stays in resort destinations such as Karuizawa, Hokkaido, and Okinawa. With fluctuations of the Japanese Yen in recent years, how much of the current foreign buying spree is driven by currency discounts versus the long-term structural value of Japanese real estate? For investors, exchange rates naturally have a direct impact on purchasing decisions. However, for buyers seeking second homes or lifestyle properties, currency movements are generally a secondary consideration. While the weaker yen has certainly supported demand, very few clients are buying solely because of favorable exchange rates. Most buyers pay close attention to market conditions, but ultimately evaluate opportunities based on budgets denominated in their home currencies. As a result, the exchange rate acts more as a tailwind than a primary driver. What makes Tokyo, Kyoto, or other parts of Japan attractive luxury property markets? Tokyo and Kyoto offer very different propositions. Tokyo is highly favored because of its accessibility, liquidity, and long-term asset value. Luxury detached homes tend to be expensive and inventory is often limited, but demand remains strong due to the city’s global status and convenience. Luxury SAKURA Residence, Kyoto, Japan Kyoto, on the other hand, offers a relatively larger supply of spacious detached homes with gardens, partly due to lower land prices. However, compared with Tokyo, Kyoto has fewer luxury condominium developments. As a result, many international buyers still choose Tokyo as their primary base in Japan. At the same time, Kyoto offers truly irreplaceable trophy properties that cannot be replicated elsewhere. A good example is the “Kyoto Luxury SAKURA Residence,” a one-of-a-kind home transformed from a former luxury jewelry brand showroom. Overlooking the Kamo River, the residence offers breathtaking cherry blossom views in spring and panoramic views of all five Daimonji bonfires from its rooftop terrace in summer—an exceptionally rare combination that embodies Kyoto’s seasonal beauty and cultural heritage. Branz Tower, Osaka, Japan Osaka has also emerged as a key destination for affluent Asian buyers. The city is benefiting from ongoing urban redevelopment and infrastructure improvements that extend well beyond Expo 2025. Compared with Tokyo, Osaka continues to offer relatively attractive pricing, providing strong potential for future capital appreciation. Excellent connectivity via Kansai International Airport and the upcoming Integrated Resort (IR) development are expected to further enhance Osaka’s position as one of Asia’s leading international business and tourism hubs. Karuizawa Retreat, Nagano, Japan Among resort destinations, Niseko, Karuizawa, and Okinawa continue to attract the strongest interest. Niseko stands out globally for its exceptional powder snow and international reputation as a premier ski destination. Karuizawa and Okinawa are also becoming increasingly popular among Asian buyers. Karuizawa appeals to affluent buyers seeking a luxury second home within easy reach of Tokyo. Its beautiful natural surroundings, distinct four seasons, and long-established reputation as Japan’s premier resort town make it particularly attractive for wellness-focused and dual-residence lifestyles. Okinawa, meanwhile, benefits from strong tourism demand and growing recognition in Taiwan and Greater China. Its subtropical climate, convenient access from major Asian cities, and increasing number of luxury developments make it an attractive destination for both lifestyle purchases and investment. The arrival of internationally renowned hospitality brands such as Rosewood and Four Seasons is further reinforcing Okinawa’s position as one of Asia’s emerging luxury resort markets. What is your view of recent initiatives to tighten foreign property buying in Japan? At present, Japan remains highly accessible to foreign buyers, with no significant ownership restrictions or foreign-buyer-specific taxes. While there has been occasional discussion regarding potential future tax increases or regulatory changes, no concrete measures have been implemented. We have not observed any meaningful increase in demand driven by concerns over possible future restrictions. What tips would you share for buyers seeking to buy property in Japan? Buyers should focus on prime locations, established brands, and properties supported by genuine and sustainable demand. One unique characteristic of the Japanese market is the prevalence of off-market transactions. Many deals are completed privately, and transaction data is often not publicly available. For that reason, selecting a trusted and experienced advisor is essential, as access to inventory and market intelligence can significantly influence investment outcomes. Beyond simply introducing properties, I believe real estate advisors should help clients build a lifestyle in Japan.
High design meets functionality as this traditional space evolves into the most sought-after feature of a waterside home, writes Emma Reynolds Wolfeboro, New Hampshire | Four Seasons Sotheby’s International Realty The boathouse is one of the oldest of residential amenities, a once utilitarian shelter for boats, fishing supplies and assorted craft, built partially over the water or set just back from it. And it has retained this core purpose and footprint for centuries. What has changed is how architects, designers and homeowners now envision the space. Waterfront living appeals for more than the views. It’s about how your lifestyle engages with the shoreline, lakeside or riverbank. Tackle boxes and fishing poles might still be stored within a boathouse, but features such as panoramic sun decks, wine racks, mood lighting and guest suites are increasingly common, helping to turn a day by the water into a night of entertaining, long after the boat has docked. “The boathouses we design are basically lakeshore clubhouses with enough amenities in them to utilize the space throughout an entire day,” says Wade Weissmann, founder of Wade Weissmann Architecture, whose projects span waterside homes in both California and New York and their Great Lakes base in Wisconsin. Austin, Texas | Kuper Sotheby’s International Realty Lakeside structures can err towards the nostalgic, bringing to mind summer-camp style. A creative approach takes more contemporary form on Lake Austin in Texas, where a new-build residence by architect Evan Fisher includes plans for an elevated glass pavilion positioned over the water, complete with a large minimalist living area and spacious sun deck above covered storage for boats and water toys. For Jennifer Schuppie of Milwaukee-based interior design studio Peabody’s, it’s the boathouses with guest suites that she finds clients fighting over in properties on the shores of Lake Michigan. “[The boathouse] acts as another residential space, just one that happens to be above the water,” says Schuppie. Ultimately, she adds, a boathouse should both reflect nature and act as an extension of its built surroundings. Windemere, England | United Kingdom Sotheby’s International Realty At Ridding Bay, a 10-acre property in England’s Lake District, there is no need to choose between amenities and privacy. Along 900 feet of Lake Windermere’s natural lakefront, this recently refurbished 16,500 square foot estate features an indoor pool, movie theater and wellness suite, surrounded by landscaped gardens, woodland and rolling hills. But the main gathering area is the newly built boathouse, with a living room, open terrace, kitchenette, shower room and proximity to the water all day long. No longer an afterthought, boathouses have evolved into miniature destinations within a property, a focal point for hosting or relaxation. Many of Weissmann’s clients approach them with the same care and consideration as parts of the primary home. “They are investing time and money into boathouse design,” he reports, “especially regarding material and craftsmanship.” Wolfeboro, New Hampshire | Four Seasons Sotheby’s International Realty On Lake Winnipesaukee in New Hampshire, the three-acre Woodland Cove estate fronts 310 feet of sandy shoreline. This hilltop home has enough bedrooms to host a large family and then some. Down along the water is a beautiful extended boathouse crafted from mahogany and fieldstone with a sheltered boat garage and lift, detailed masonry and plenty of storage space. “This boathouse is unique because it blends into the natural surroundings and has the capacity to house a 50-foot boat,” says Brian Neidhardt, global real estate advisor for the New Hampshire Lakes Region at Four Seasons Sotheby’s International Realty. “Boathouses on Lake Winnipesaukee are extremely desirable and can add up to 30% to the value of the property. Designs have become more extravagant and in many cases mirror the level of finish of the main home,” he adds. This growth is reflected in other waterfront markets, too. “A lot of my clients are trying to create a multigenerational family presence, so they’re thinking generations ahead,” says Wade Weismann. “Every single project we’re working on seems to be a legacy project.” Loosdrecht, North Holland | Netherlands Sotheby’s International Realty Few properties set up that multigenerational structure better than a Lac McGale estate in Quebec’s Upper Laurentians. Its 1,205 forested acres encompass three lakes and a private island, plus a traditional white clapboard boathouse that sits beside a timber dock. Meanwhile, in the Netherlands, life on the water takes a more practical form. This contemporary property sits at the end of a private peninsula on the Loosdrechtse Plassen, a system of five interconnected lakes within easy reach of Amsterdam. Just steps from the main house and gardens is a low double boathouse from which to speed away easily. Its restrained design reflects a place where boats are part of everyday transportation and recreation. Because no matter a boathouse’s appearance and add-ons, it retains one core function: bringing its owner closer to the water. Take design inspiration for indoor-outdoor spaces that work with the changing seasons
As a true local agent, she takes pride in representing you and your home to the highest quality. When choosing Jayce, you can feel confident that she knows the area well and will provide you with a valuable real estate experience with her approach to all levels of the market, from entry-level to custom-built luxury.
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