Sothebys Realty

This grand Spanish Colonial Revival estate in L.A.’s Eagle Rock neighborhood is an enduring—and meticulously updated—tribute to its pioneering architect, Paul Revere Williams, and to the unique glamour of early-20th-century Southern California.

During his celebrated career, pioneering American architect Paul Revere Williams designed more than 2,000 residences, developing a mastery of numerous architectural styles, a skill for which he became widely esteemed. This high regard attracted business magnates and Hollywood celebrities, who rushed to commission homes from him across Southern California. 

Beverly Hills, California| Nicole Plaxen | Sotheby’s International Realty – Beverly Hills Brokerage

Enjoying a prominent perch on a prestigious corner in the welcoming neighborhood of Eagle Rock, this grand 6,766-square-foot Spanish Colonial Revival estate stands as a fitting tribute to Williams and to the unique Southern California glamour of his age. Built in the 1930s, lovingly maintained, and painstakingly rejuvenated by Gary Mkrtichyan of Opus Builders, it showcases an iconic terra-cotta-tile roofline, graceful archways, elaborate ironwork, hand-carved woodwork, colorful tiles, vaulted ceilings with exposed beams, and hand-stenciled decorative panels. It is a rare, enduring landmark where Old World craftsmanship, scrupulous artistry, and contemporary comforts and conveniences unite. 

Suitable for both small, quiet gatherings and festive fêtes for a crowd, the heart of the home is a forward-thinking great room that encompasses a generous living area, an inviting kitchen, and a dedicated dining area. Folding French doors in the living area give way to a picturesque rose garden. Cooks of all skill levels will appreciate the kitchen’s spacious island, 12-burner La Cornue range, custom cabinetry, wood-paneled refrigerator, wine chiller, and discreet walk-in pantry.

Nearby are a sophisticated study and a handsome wood-paneled office with a coffered ceiling. Hidden on the home’s lowest level, an enchanting space known familiarly as the Velvet Room is a Prohibition-era-style speakeasy offering spirited secret rooms—one of which easily serves as a generous wine cellar—a cocktail bar, a fireplace, and access to the idyllic backyard. Throughout the home, plentiful windows admit painterly natural light, while elegant chandeliers cast a golden glow, and warm wood and organic hues link the home with its natural surroundings.

A cinematic staircase with vibrant tile accents and wrought-iron detailing leads to the uppermost level and the serene, soigné primary suite, which boasts its own fireplace, French doors opening to a wraparound balcony overlooking the grounds, and a lavish bath with dual showers and a gold-plated soaking tub. Visitors are accommodated in languid style thanks to three stylish guest bedrooms, two baths, and a private sundeck on the upper level as well as an auxiliary suite on the main level. 

A virtual private resort that recalls a lush destination of a bygone era, the home’s roughly three-quarter-acre grounds include a refreshing herringbone-tiled swimming pool and spa, flagstone terraces, impeccably manicured gardens threaded with winding paths, multiple sitting areas—one with a fire pit—expanses of emerald lawn, flourishing roses, a classical tiered fountain, a pavilion greenhouse, mature trees, and a playful sports court. 

While comprehensively updated for a sophisticated modern lifestyle, this residence is proud of its architectural legacy, maintaining an air of timelessness and whispering reminders of its early-20th-century beginnings. It is a place of priceless pedigree and an opportunity not to be missed. 

Discover luxury homes for sale and rent around the world on sothebysrealty.com

High-end buyers are increasingly seeking space for everyone under one roof, bringing family together—at home or on holiday

Pescadaro, California | Golden Gate Sotheby’s International Realty

“It’s where the family heartbeat is,” says Rodd Macklin, co-founder and managing director of Pennington Partners & Co, of the rise in multigenerational living, where grandparents, children and grandchildren share a home. 

The setup is emerging as a significant trend in luxury real estate, strengthening emotional connections, spreading caregiving duties and forging family legacies. “A home is often the anchor where families come together, making it a natural place for conversations about prosperity,” continues Macklin. “At the same time, it’s a major asset that must be structured thoughtfully if it’s going to last across generations.” 

And generational considerations matter. According to Macklin, Baby Boomers (born 1946-64) often downsize their daily living arrangements but keep a home for family gatherings, while Generation X (1965-80) increasingly house elderly parents and adult children. For Millennials (1981-96) and Gen Z (1997-2012), flexible living spaces beat large houses. “What’s the same across all generations is that their homes give a sense of belonging. It’s not just real estate,” Macklin says.

Tokyo, Japan | List Sotheby’s International Realty

Indeed, the pull of multigenerational living is being felt globally, especially in countries with a culture of honoring and valuing older family members. “In Japan, the idea of a family living together has profound roots,” says Kantaro Aoki of List Sotheby’s International Realty, Japan. “Historically, it was common for the grandparents, parents and children to live together in the same household, especially in rural areas. Although the nuclear family became more common in the postwar years, the trend toward multigenerational homes is re-emerging.”

Suitable properties are shaped by location, purpose, architecture, land availability and cultural norms. “Thoughtful planning by an architect of how people want to live is the difference between successful intergenerational living and a big house,” says Bob Zuber, a partner at Morgante Wilson Architects in Chicago, Illinois. “Think rec rooms, sitting rooms, separate entry points if necessary, reading nooks and playrooms. Not everyone wants or needs to be surrounded by family members at all times.”

São Paulo, Brasil | Bossa Nova Sotheby’s International Realty

For Sandra Wendland of Legacy Sotheby’s International Realty in Portland, Maine, multigenerational housing comes in many forms. “Sometimes it’s a lakefront property, sometimes oceanfront or even island compounds, because it goes back to the family seeking meaningful time together.”

One of Wendland’s recent transactions—a lakefront property near the base of a ski resort—included the buyer’s mother, who had grown up skiing there. “She was elated to be able to enjoy the mountain and lake with her grandchildren,” says Wendland.

Just as space to come together is important, often so is real estate with space to be apart. “From the cultural aspect, I think the luxury end is really about unplugging,” says Margaret “Meg” Smith of Daniel Gale Sotheby’s International Realty in Bay Shore, New York.

Southampton, New York | Sotheby’s International Realty – Southampton Brokerage

Smith recently sold a multigenerational property on Fire Island, New York. It comprised three separate houses: one on the bay, one ocean-facing, and the third centered between them as an entertainment space. Two brothers thought it was perfect because each one could have their own home and they could bring their families together in the middle, Smith says.

For affluent families, these purchases represent more than a lifestyle choice—they are strategic investments that address multiple financial objectives while creating space for the family to thrive across generations. Whether used for vacations with extended family or year-round living, multigenerational homes offer the chance to deepen family connections and create a lasting real estate legacy. As Macklin concludes, it’s about having “somewhere that ties everyone together.”

This is an edited extract from Sotheby’s International Realty 2026 Luxury Outlook report. Read and download the full report at luxuryoutlook.com

From a €164M sale in Sardinia, Italy, to US$56M sale in Portola Valley, here are ten top sales represented by the Sotheby’s International Realty global network in 2025.

Sardinia, Italy

Lodovico Pignatti Morano | Italy Sotheby’s International Realty, €164M

View properties in Sardinia, Italy

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Regan Faulkner, Ioana Armeanu | Dubai Sotheby’s International Realty, AED 330M

View properties in Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Portola Valley, California

Chris Iverson | Golden Gate International Realty, US$56M

View properties in Portola Valley, California

Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

Abu Dhabi Sotheby’s International Realty, AED$200M

Del Mar, California

Rande Turner | Pacific International Realty, US$50M

View properties in Del Mar, California

Aspen, Colorado

Mandy Welgos| Aspen Snowmass Sotheby’s International Realty, US$45.55M

View properties in Aspen, Colorado

Palm Beach, Florida

Tom Shaw | Sotheby’s International Realty – Palm Beach Brokerage, US$48.5M

View properties in Palm Beach, Florida

Point Piper, Australia

Michael Pallier | Sydney Sotheby’s International Realty, AUD$55M 

View properties in Point Piper, Australia

Zermatt, Switzerland

Oliver Herweg| Stieger & Cie Sotheby’s International Realty, CHF 22M

View properties in Zermatt, Switzerland

Greenwich, Connecticut

Joseph Barbieri, Helene Barre, Fran Ehrlich| Sotheby’s International Realty – Greenwich Brokerage, US$23M

View properties in Greenwich, Connecticut

Discover previous editions of Significant Sales on the blog

Designers are creating a warm, intimate home atmosphere with candlelight and elevated accessories, writes Francesca Perry

Ramona Albert’s Ramus candleholder subtly lights a bedroom. Photograph: Olivia Steuer

In an electrified world, we may not need candles, but we certainly long for them, and in the dark days of winter, candlelight is almost impossible to resist. While elegant candleholders are a decor staple, the prominence of candles at home is only growing. More designers are creating artful holders, scented candle sales are booming, and the soft glow and traditional atmosphere that candles create are the perfect fit for today’s interiors.

Candlelight creates a calming, intimate atmosphere—something that modern, stress-filled lifestyles often call for. The ritual of lighting candles at home can bring a sense of occasion or mark a moment of transition, such as from work to relaxation. Unlike electric lamps, candles feel connected to nature, making the art of lighting a more sensory one, and with their ancient origins, they bring a sense of timelessness to the home. It’s even been shown that the low light of candles can help improve mood and sleep. 

“I often start the day with a candle at breakfast, letting its glow set a quiet, mindful tone,” says designer Lola Lely, co-founder of London candlemakers Wax Atelier, which uses traditional methods and sustainable waxes in its products. “Candlelight softens a room, highlighting the warmth in colors, textures and objects, while the gentle play of shadows creates a beautiful atmosphere.”

Start your day with a candle, says Lola Lely of Wax Atelier candlemakers. Photograph: Wax Atelier

In the home, Lely recommends a candle on a dining table to bring warmth and enhance conversation; on a mantelpiece or coffee table to make the room feel inviting: and in the bathroom to create a “spa-like moment.” Interior stylist Colin King lights taper candles when he needs quiet or wants to make dinner feel “more cinematic.” “They are my shortcut to warmth, my go-to design therapy,” he writes in his popular newsletter, “The Last Layer.” Candles can be used in myriad ways, he explains—sconces, standalone tapers, chandeliers, candelabras—and the fact they are old-fashioned adds to their “magic.” 

Jamb, a brand specializing in antique furniture and fireplaces, launched its new Scipio candleholder in January. Inspired by the aesthetic of English country houses and ancient Roman artefacts, the candleholder is carved from precious marble fragments and is designed to become a conscious part of a curated home collection of art and antiques.

Candles certainly lend themselves to this moment of peak collectible design. Inventive or sculptural holders created by contemporary designers are becoming covetable objects for the home: a focus for a dining table, a crafted accent in a living room or an eye-catching feature in a hallway.

Jamb’s new Scipio candleholder mixes English and classical influences. Photograph: Christopher Horwood

Mariah Nielson, director of the Blunk Space gallery in Northern California and daughter of American sculptor JB Blunk (1926-2002) has brought together contemporary designers from all over the world for the exhibition “100 Candleholders” (running until March 28). From small ceramic pieces to a chandelier decorated with shells, the 100 pieces on show demonstrate the creative potential of candle decor and its current design prominence.

Big-name brands are also getting in on the action. Italian designer Osanna Visconti recently collaborated with Dior Maison to create a range of delicate bronze candleholders with floral motifs. Centering craftsmanship and elegance, the tall pieces are made using the lost wax technique, an ancient method of metal-casting used for jewelry and sculpture, befitting of the storied French fashion house.

Sarah Sherman Samuel’s “bow” sconces flank a mirror. Photograph: Courtesy of Lulu and Georgia

LA- and Michigan-based designer Sarah Sherman Samuel, celebrated for her luxuriously crafted interiors and furniture, has created a range of decorative sconces and candlesticks for interiors brand Lulu and Georgia. Characterized by ribbon-like bows, the metal pieces bring elegant charm to a room. “In a world saturated with digital glow and artificial light, candlelight restores something human,” she says. Flanking a mirror or piece of art with  candles in sconces, she says, feels “considered, architectural, and timeless.”

In 2025, New York-based architect and designer Ramona Albert designed a range of polished brass candleholders inspired by tree roots, presenting them in a spellbinding candlelit installation for the NYCxDesign festival. The Ramus collection, she explains, was crafted for “poetic” interiors. “They bring a quiet drama to the room—anchoring space with texture and shadow… The collective flicker of flames interacts with the diverg

Ramona Albert’s Ramus candleholder range is modelled on tree roots. Photograph: Olivia Steuer

At home, Albert recommends grouping candleholders into clusters to create “a visually dynamic arrangement” and varying the height of the pieces to build depth. “This deliberate layering of form and materiality transforms a space into a ritualized sanctuary,” she says

Living with candles is special because it introduces a “rhythm of light” that grounds a space in a sense of peace, says Albert. Unlike electric lighting, candlelight creates a layering of lighting that “drapes a room like silk on skin.” What’s more, as candles can be moved and rearranged depending on mood, they become the ultimate flexible vehicle of elevated decor, creating the exact atmosphere and aesthetic in each room that is desired, whenever the flame of inspiration is ignited.

On the scent: read more about the rise of fragrance in luxury interior design

It’s a changing picture.

Take first-time purchasers. The “2025 Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers”, published by the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) on November 4, reveals that married couples today account for just half of first-time buyer households, down from 58% in 2016 and far below the 1985 high of 75%.

Taking a larger share of the first-time buyer market are unmarried couples (up from 0% in 1981 to 11% today) and single women, who now make up a quarter (25%) of first-time purchases.

“Single women have homeownership as a top priority and they will find a way to obtain it,” says Jessica Lautz, deputy chief economist and vice president of research for NAR.

Beyond first-time buyers, the share of all buyers with children under the age of 18 living at home has dropped to 24%—a historic low. “The median age of repeat buyers is now 62,” explains Lautz. “Being an empty nester may free up finances for these homebuyers.”

Cover Property: Kailua, Hawaii

Home to the Sundance Film Festival, the appeal of this alpine town stretches far beyond the red carpet, writes Aimee L. Cook

Park City, Utah | Summit Sotheby’s International Realty

Each January, Park City slips on its glitziest attire as the annual Sundance Film Festival sets it buzzing. The mountain town’s historic Main Street is lit with paparazzi flashbulbs, as famous directors duck into coffee shops and moviegoers chat in lines. As the festival banners come down and the streets settle, Park City’s year-round energy and charm take center stage. The rhythm of life in this northern Utah town shifts with the seasons. Winter mornings are crisp and quiet, soundtracked by the whoosh of skis on powder. And after a sunrise ride on the chairlift, many find themselves gathering in cozy cafés. 

Park City’s most exclusive homes embrace this extraordinary location. Among them is 217 White Pine Canyon Road, a 4.5-acre ski-in/ski-out estate which embodies mountain modernism. In winter, glass walls frame postcard scenes of snowfall dusting the pines, and evenings can be spent by one of several fires. As the snow melts, the same open living spaces flow effortlessly to outdoor terraces—perfect for alfresco entertaining surrounded by panoramic alpine greenery.

As spring becomes summer, Park City remakes itself again—bike tires crunch along hundreds of miles of wildflower-edged trails, paddleboarders hit the local lakes and reservoirs, and outdoor concerts bring neighbors together on warm evenings.

Park City, Utah | Summit Sotheby’s International Realty

Golf and horseback riding are among the activities on offer at the private mountain community of Promontory, where 7841 N West Hill Trail, designed by local architect Clive Bridgwater, showcases the surrounding Wasatch Mountains.

Park City’s prime real estate comes with an enviable lifestyle and community, confirms Julie Snyder, global real estate advisor for Summit Sotheby’s International Realty. “Buyers have so many choices here, whether they want views, an amenity package or to be part of a new community,” she says, adding that the convenience of Salt Lake City’s international airport, a 45-minute drive away, enhances the appeal.

Park City, Utah | Summit Sotheby’s International Realty

Dream Catcher Lodge is a more traditional chalet-style home where winter afternoons can be spent carving fresh lines on the private ski runs of The Colony gated community, and expansive decks provide front-row seats to mountain sunsets on summer evenings.

“Designing for the Park City lifestyle means blending luxe materials with relaxed living while embracing the area’s natural beauty,” says Stephanie Hunt, owner of local lifestyle  and design firm The Flair Hunter, who has lived and worked in the city for 17 years. 

Luxury homeowners in the region embrace nature and comfort in tandem, she says. “My approach emphasizes softer furniture curves, deeper sofas for post-adventure relaxation, and finishes like burnished brass and rich wood grains that enhance the stunning views. Thoughtful details, like well-placed mudrooms, ski storage and windows that maximize light and vistas, ensure every home is both functional and personal.”

Park City, Utah | Summit Sotheby’s International Realty

Exposed beams and vaulted ceilings feature in the warming wooden interiors of 7933 Bald Eagle Drive, which enjoys direct ski access to the Roamer Trail, which in turn offers peaceful, meditative hikes in spring. 

When the Sundance red carpets are rolled away for another year in February, Park City will continue to embrace a lifestyle where every season delivers something to anticipate: the rush of downhill runs, the peace of sun-drenched trails and the pleasure of sharing a meal as dusk settles over Main Street once again. 

Read more about mountain modernism in our guide to contemporary ranch style

Contemporary artists love to collect sketches and studies by their predecessors and they aren’t alone, writes Katie Armstrong

Jean-Antoine Watteau, “A Man Playing the Guitar,” which will be auctioned in “Master Drawings from the Collection of Diane A. Nixon,” Sotheby’s New York, February 4, 2026. Photograph: Sotheby’s

Old Master drawings—the sketches, studies, even doodles of European artists from the 15th to the early 20th century—can be windows into some of the most celebrated figures in art history. At Sotheby’s, the category begins where medieval manuscripts end, taking in everything from ink sketches by the Flemish court painter Sir Anthony van Dyck to preparatory charcoal marks by Victorian masters and watercolors by J.M.W. Turner. 

“You’re looking over the artist’s shoulder while they’re thinking out what they’re going to do,” says Gregory Rubinstein, senior director and head of the Old Master drawings department worldwide at Sotheby’s, of the intimacy and immediacy of rare drawings. “You see them try a figure in one position, try a figure in another position,” he adds. “You see all the stages.”

In 2012, Rubinstein was involved in what is still the world record for the category, overseeing the £29.7m (US$47.9m at the time) sale at Sotheby’s London of “Head of a Young Apostle,” a preparatory sketch by Italian artist Raphael created in the early 16th century for his last great masterpiece, “The Transfiguration” (1516-1520). Two upcoming sales at Sotheby’s New York are a fresh opportunity to explore the breadth of this collecting category and take inspiration from one of its most enthusiastic participants.

Raffaello Sanzio, called Raphael, “Head of a Young Apostle,” which sold for US$47.9m at Sotheby’s London in December 2012. Photograph: Sotheby’s

Diane A. Nixon, whose collection goes under the hammer on February 4, was one of the most esteemed Old Master drawings collectors of the last century, amassing more than 200 works from all schools and periods. A keen advocate for the medium, she bequeathed works to institutions and remained a devoted supporter of drawing departments across the globe.

The most coveted drawings at auction are often studies for works eventually painted on canvas. But they are also complete works of art in themselves and subject to the same scrutiny as any other lot. “We have far more surviving drawings by some artists. It’s very likely that many artists produced lots of drawings which never survived, that got thrown out or binned,” explains Rubinstein. “The relative rarity of the drawing matters.”

Historical and current practices are more intertwined than ever. “There’s a real trend now for contemporary artists, such as Glenn Brown, to look back at older and older art,” Rubinstein says. “Some are collectors of Old Master drawings, which was definitely not the case when I started 35 years ago.” But artists aren’t the only enthusiasts. Drawings are often offered at lower price points than other lots in the Old Masters group—a chance to own work by the greats, often for just a few thousand dollars.

The “Master Works on Paper from Five Centuries” exhibition at Sotheby’s London, July 2025. Photograph: Sotheby’s

Rubinstein recommends visiting drawing exhibitions, viewing auction lots and talking to those in the know to hone your tastes. “It’s a case of trying to understand what it is that you personally find exciting and interesting,” he encourages. “Develop your understanding and you will end up in a position where you can make an informed decision, based on a combination of what appeals and your budget.”

A major highlight of the upcoming New York sales is a Rembrandt study, “Young Lion Resting” from the late 1630s or early 1640s, with an estimate of US$15-20M. One of only six known lion studies by the Dutch Old Master, with the other five spread across institutions including the British Museum, the Louvre and Amsterdam’s Rijksmuseum, it’s one of the most important Rembrandt works to come to the market in decades. “It’s also just a fantastic image. The most wonderful, powerful, engaging and exciting drawing,” confirms Rubinstein.

Rembrandt Harmensz. van Rijn, “Young Lion Resting,” which will be auctioned at “Master Works on Paper from Five Centuries,” Sotheby’s New York on February 4, 2026. Photograph: Sotheby’s

Also available will be a study of a merchant vessel by the 18th-century Venetian master Canaletto, another of a man playing guitar by French painter Jean-Antoine Watteau, and a spectacular depiction of the Annunciation from Tiepolo created in the late 1730s. The latter has particularly outstanding provenance, having been part of the sought-after collection of Russian prince Aleksey Orlov, which was sold after his death in 1920.

New collectors might be concerned with how to handle such delicate works. While paper and vellum aren’t known for being particularly robust, many drawings have survived for hundreds of years and will survive for many more, as long as they are not displayed in bright sunlight or extreme climates. “A lot of people have fun with drawings because you can plaster the walls with them, which is much easier and more satisfying to do than it is with paintings,” says Rubinstein. “They have real potential as a feature in a decorative scheme.”

Fra Bartolomeo’s “A Fortified Hill Town,” which will be auctioned at “Master Drawings from the Collection of Diane A. Nixon,” Sotheby’s New York, February 4, 2026. Photograph: Sotheby’s

Then there is the connection to an artist, sometimes across centuries. An extraordinarily rare sketch by Renaissance painter Fra Bartolomeo is coming to auction in February: “A Fortified Hill Town,” which is thought to be a view of Lucca, dates from a series he created between 1500 and 1505. “These are some of the earliest complete, pure landscape drawings known in the history of Western art,” says Rubinstein. “It’s just so natural, delicate, atmospheric. Imagine him sitting out there more than 500 years ago, making this little sketch.”

”Master Drawings from the Collection of Diane A. Nixon” and “Master Works on Paper from Five Centuries” are at Sotheby’s New York on February 4.

Our Collecting Focus series features expert advice on jewelry, watches, wine, rare whisky, historic books, music memorabilia, fashion history, natural history and modern and contemporary prints

Amid the rolling open terrain northwest of historic downtown Santa Fe, a 25.3-acre equestrian sanctuary known as the Dusty Boot combines the spirit of the Old West, contemporary luxury, effortless comfort, and consummate Southwestern style.

At the base of the majestic Sangre de Cristo Mountains, the small city of Santa Fe is known the world over for its natural beauty, relaxed lifestyle, easily accessible outdoor activities, thriving arts scene, and diverse cultural history that includes many of the legends of the American West. The striking open terrain northwest of the city affords a lifestyle that is both rural and sophisticated, often with panoramic views of multiple mountain ranges, badlands, and cinematic sunsets.

Santa Fe, New Mexico| Ricky Allen – Tara Earley Group | Sotheby’s International Realty – Santa Fe – Main Downtown Brokerage

Among the expansive properties in the peaceful, prestigious area known as La Tierra Nueva is a 25.3-acre estate known as the Dusty Boot, where the spirit of the Old West persists in stylish harmony with contemporary luxury. A virtual Southwestern sanctuary recalling a Spanish hacienda, the compound features a 5,186-square-foot residence, a guest casita, a superior equestrian facility, and a variety of outdoor living areas and amusements. Throughout, Southwestern style—rugged stacked stone, sturdy vigas, accent latillas, and earthy stone tile—coexists with contemporary comforts and conveniences.

Designed by esteemed area architect Steven Samuelson and built in 2007, the impressive main residence exemplifies the area’s singular aesthetic and offers two restful bedrooms and three baths. The heart of the home is a handsome great room with soaring ceilings, a majestic fireplace clad in stone and copper, and an inviting cook’s kitchen with warm wood cabinetry and top-tier appliances. Doors open to a breathtaking “infinity” patio that conjures an ethereal sensation of hovering above the piñon- and juniper-strewn high desert landscape—a perfect perch for reveling in vast views of mountains, dramatic clouds, and impossibly blue sky. Nearby, an alfresco kitchen with a wood-fired pizza oven and a built-in grill. Long- and short-term visitors will appreciate the comfort and privacy of the freestanding guesthouse, which offers one welcoming bedroom, two baths, and numerous striking stylistic flourishes and features.

Horses are welcome on much of Santa Fe’s rolling land, and equestrian pursuits are a favorite pastime. The facilities at the Dusty Boot—conceived by lifelong rancher, horseman, and self-proclaimed vaquero Pedro Marquez—are a paradigm of Southwestern riding culture and equine well-being. Highlights include four oversized heated stalls with turnouts, automatic waterers, a tack and laundry room, a washing area, an arena, a round pen, and a walker. The stable complex also includes versatile, light-filled, and climate-controlled spaces—accompanied by a butler’s pantry, abundant storage, and a full bath—that can easily serve a number of purposes: a contemplative office, an art or recording studio, a peaceful place for yoga or meditation, or a well-outfitted gym. At the center of it all is a lush emerald courtyard with a waterfall trough, a sitting area with a focal fire pit, and an easily accessible powder room.

Carefully chosen landscaping—including aspens, roses, and Russian sage—add colorful natural accents, while further afield are fenced orchards, raised garden beds, water features, a chicken coop, and a picnicking pergola. Combining these desirable outdoor amenities and diversions with a wealth of debonair indoor spaces, the Dusty Boot is an inimitable property, designed for living the consummate Southwestern lifestyle amid Santa Fe’s delightful four-season climate and enviable 300 yearly days of sunshine.

Discover luxury homes for sale and rent around the world on sothebysrealty.com

Our monthly series asks: How do you use color in luxury design? White can be surprisingly warm and multi-toned, writes Jill Krasny

Hollywood Hills, California | Sotheby’s International Realty – Beverly Hills Brokerage

Ever notice how some homes catch your eye while others fail to make an impression? The colors in the design scheme may be at play. Whereas dark blue feels relaxing and bright red gets people talking, white, which our series on color in luxury design turns to next, evokes subtler and more sophisticated feelings of calm. 

For decades, white has been the go-to for contemporary interiors in sunny climes. Now, “Cloud Dancer,” a subtle off-white shade with warmer undertones, has been named Pantone’s Color of the Year for 2026. White is not without its design pitfalls, of course. 

“In a contemporary house with clean lines, the thought of doing white everywhere with teeny tiny pops of neutrals can get clinical really fast,” says Lisa Shaffer, chief executive and creative director of Lisa & Leroy, an interior design firm based in Washington, D.C. However, the clever layering of textures and materials is the best way to keep things approachable, she says. 

Hollywood Hills, California | Sotheby’s International Realty – Beverly Hills Brokerage

A secluded, sun-drenched retreat in the Hollywood Hills shows the power of choosing materials with similar undertones, says Shaffer. Though the home appears all-white at first glance, surface materials like poured concrete walls, porcelain floors and dark oak cabinetry add interest, warming things up with their slight color differences. 

Nor do the white walls come across as cold, says Shaffer, noting that the tree-covered mountains of Laurel Canyon, visible from the windows, may have informed the design scheme. There isn’t an ocean nearby, she says, so the bright paint creates contrast.

Mykonos, Greece | Greece Sotheby’s International Realty

In Greece, where the clifftops are dotted by traditionally whitewashed homes, the color reads cooler and brighter than that of the Hollywood residence. And that’s a good thing, says Shaffer, because it makes the water look bluer and turns it into the focal point. 

A contemporary subterranean villa in Melora, Mykonos, a five-minute drive from the island’s main town, shows how incorporating natural materials like teak—and little else, beyond well-chosen accessories—put the Cycladean views front and center. .

Belgravia, London | United Kingdom Sotheby’s International Realty

Meanwhile, a 19th-century mansion in London’s exclusive Belgrave Square proves why Italianate “stucco” villas remain such a prominent feature of the capital’s most affluent neighborhoods, such as Mayfair, Belgravia, Kensington and Chelsea. 

Inside, white hallways serve as a “palette cleanser,” says Shaffer, playing up the bolder color choices of the reception rooms and bedrooms They also serve as a through line, giving a residence of this size and heritage a sense of continuity. “This house is such a good reminder that a home is designed to be cohesive—not match,” Shaffer says.

Vero Beach, Florida | ONE Sotheby’s International Realty

An oceanfront mansion in Ocean Pearl, a gated community in Vero Beach, Florida, combines the cohesive white of its exteriors and interiors with cozy detailing like wood ceilings and floors, Shaker-style cabinetry and crown molding. “This house you could pop anywhere, and convince me it belonged there,” says Shaffer. “A lot of it has to do with the architectural choices.” Such details have the power to evoke emotions, she adds, and “this is a house where a family can feel really comfortable.” 

Explore our Color Chart series, from crowd-pleasing blue to zingy orange and bright red

A new year invites a more meaningful approach to interior design, with personalized spaces that support your well-being and values, writes Emma Reynolds

Austin, Texas | Kuper Sotheby’s International Realty

Each new year invites reflection and renewal and much of that begins at home. Where we live is an extension of who we are and what we value. In 2026, luxury design is moving beyond fleeting trends and strict design rules, embracing more individualized interiors, richer color and texture, a lived-in ease and spaces that foster connection.

New York-based interior designer Andrew Suvalsky says his clients are pivoting from minimalism to embrace a more personalized aesthetic. “People want homes that are layered, expressive and distinguished, rather than neutral or generic,” he says.

The most compelling interiors aren’t static; they evolve with their owners over time. Consider these ideas a thoughtful roadmap for elevating your home and lifestyle.

Think big with wallpaper

Ontario, Canada | Sotheby’s International Realty Canada

Blank white walls can be a creative canvas: an invitation to go bold with statement coverings. Wallpaper, once tied to dated living rooms and grand old hotels, has reemerged as a powerful design tool that can double up as artwork. It appears in non-traditional ways—on wrapped ceilings and in lined cabinetry—while transforming smaller spaces such as closets, powder rooms and offices into moments of surprise. 

Skilled artisans and heritage design houses such as de Gournay—as featured in this contemporary home in Ontario, Canada—create bespoke works from intricate hand-painted murals to luxurious tactile materials (silk, pearl appliqué, linen, grasscloth) that add beauty and depth to walls that could otherwise fall flat.

Go wild with an orangery

Portland, Oregon | Cascade Hasson Sotheby’s International Realty

An orangery is a purpose-built garden room originally designed to shelter citrus trees through harsh European winters. Popularized in 17th-century England, it soon became a symbol of refinement, evolving into a sophisticated setting for entertaining guests. 

Today, the orangery feels newly relevant as homeowners embrace biophilic design, the philosophy of connecting people to nature through natural light, views and proximity to the outdoors to enhance well-being. 

Essentially, a more elevated take on the conservatory, orangeries are conceived as a true architectural extension of the home, with insulated masonry walls, oversized windows, and, ideally, a glazed lantern roof that lets the sun shine through all year.

Have fun with color contrasts

Austin, Texas | Kuper Sotheby’s International Realty

Homeowners are growing ever more confident when it comes to experimenting with color as they realize that low-risk, low-maintenance, non-permanent tweaks using paint, textiles and accessories can easily transform a room without a full redesign. Whether bright and vibrant, or dark, earthy and moody, color is the most satisfying of upgrades.

Methods like color drenching (painting walls, ceilings, trims and doors the same hue) or contrasting unexpected shades, through furniture, art and decor, can both work. This Mediterranean-style property in Austin, Texas is a lesson in tasteful yet daring color contrasting, featuring saturated red hues alongside shades of saffron and green. 

“There’s a desire to bring the richness of high fashion, as we see on runways and magazine editorial imagery, into the home through color, texture and materiality,” says Suvalsky.

Create a sanctuary—inside or outside

Jackson Hole, Wyoming |Jackson Hole Sotheby’s International Realty

New year’s resolutions often revolve around our health. Wellness-focused amenities in the comfort of your own home can help support these goals long-term. Saunas, gyms, cold plunges, spas and mediation rooms are among the most in-demand luxury residential features as a new wave of buyers prioritize longevity of lifestyle. 

A mountain home in Jackson Hole, Wyoming approaches the booming sauna culture in particular through a design-forward lens; its outdoor sauna is a sleek and contemporary structure tucked into the wild landscape. Some high-end homeowners and property developers are even installing hyperbaric oxygen chambers and IV drip stations. 

Though wellness means something different for everyone, the benefits of creating a calm, relaxing space for restorative rituals, whatever its size or scale, go a long way.

Source locally whenever possible

Queenstown, New Zealand | New Zealand Sotheby’s International Realty

Sustainability is not a trend but a guiding principle for today’s homeowners and designers. Locally sourced materials ground a home in its surroundings and create a true sense of place, while reducing environmental impact and fostering community. It’s just as important to work with local artisans and craftspeople, who bring knowledge, tradition and nuance that can’t be imported or replicated. 

“With the flood of mass-produced furniture from global retailers, clients want something more customized and turn to finely crafted special-order furnishings built by hand,” says Suvalsky, who has curated a strong network of artisans and fabricators in his work. There’s no better display of how contemporary design can sit cohesively with expert craftsmanship and local materials than this hilltop manse in Queenstown, New Zealand. An architectural marvel overlooking Lake Wakatipu, it features locally sourced schist stone, slate flooring and reclaimed Kauri timber details that incorporate an organic feel. Artful touches, like a sculptural spiral staircase, make the home feel one-of-a-kind.

Interested in the architecture and design trends set to define 2026? Read our guide