You could own a remarkable pink Venetian villa in WA wine country

The article explores the considerations for homeowners debating whether to install a wine cellar, focusing on its potential impact on home value and personal enjoyment. Manny Varas, founder of MV Group USA, exemplifies a serious wine collector who built a custom, contemporary wine cellar to house his 900-bottle collection, prioritizing a 'less is more' aesthetic with stone walls and metal display racks over traditional wood. This personal investment highlights the dedication some enthusiasts have to their wine, influencing their home design choices. The discussion differentiates between two primary types of wine cellars: passive and active. Passive wine cellars are non-refrigerated, typically smaller, and used by casual enthusiasts. They are often placed in cool, dark areas like basements and can start around $5,000. Audrey Frances Doty of Audrey Frances Design notes that these are more for aesthetics and less for serious aging, as they lack precise climate control. In contrast, active wine cellars are climate-controlled, offering specific temperature and humidity regulation essential for serious collectors. These require specialized construction, including mold-resistant blue board and spray foam insulation, and can be significantly more expensive, with a 300-square-foot cellar starting around $60,000. Some active cellars incorporate wine fridges to accommodate different wine types requiring varied temperatures. The article then delves into whether wine cellars add resale value to a home. Real estate agent Harvin Greene points out that in homes above $5 million, a luxury wine cellar can serve as a unique selling point, or a 'hook,' and is almost an expected feature. However, these cellars are increasingly used to store other spirits like bourbons, tequilas, and cigars, expanding their appeal beyond just wine. For homes under $2 million, wine cellars generally do not significantly boost appraised value due to space constraints and a lower likelihood of extensive wine collections. In these cases, a more modest, thoughtfully integrated wine feature, such as a wine fridge, is often more appreciated than a full cellar. For wine enthusiasts who invest in collections, especially those buying in bulk and tracking maturation, a wine cellar makes considerable sense. Varas explains that buying wine young and allowing it to mature in proper conditions can be a profitable investment strategy, with a bottle purchased at $200 potentially being worth $1,500 once fully aged. Apps like InVintory assist collectors in tracking their bottles' maturity. The article also presents a more practical approach, with wine strategist Stevie Stacionis building a functional, yet aesthetically basic, cellar in her garage for about $2,200. Her priority was protecting the wine's integrity from heat, light, and oxygen, maintaining a cool 57 degrees with controlled humidity, rather than creating a luxurious display. Ultimately, a full wine cellar is not a universal necessity. For those not collecting large volumes or seeking a display piece, alternatives like wine coolers offer an intermediate solution. Stacionis recommends wine coolers, particularly EuroCave models, for their ability to mimic cellar conditions without occupying significant space. She advises that if a home stays below 70 degrees and wine is consumed within a few months, refrigeration might suffice. However, for longer-term storage exceeding a year, a wine fridge is crucial for maintaining proper temperature. The article concludes that whether through a lavish cellar or a simple cooler, proper wine storage is a luxury in itself, with customizable options to suit various needs and budgets. #WineCellar #HomeValue #RealEstate #HomeImprovement #LuxuryHomes #WineStorage #HomeDesign #FinancialPlanning #WineCollecting

Limewash, a centuries-old paint trend, offers a versatile, environmentally-friendly, and charming wall finish that evokes the aesthetic of Italian villas and French country cottages. While traditionally seen on Greek island homes or modern city lofts, limewashing has recently gained mainstream popularity, with more companies offering a variety of colored options. It provides an "old-style plaster look" at a more budget-friendly price point than actual plaster. Limewash is made from crushed limestone mixed with water, resulting in a thin, milky consistency. Unlike conventional paints, which often contain plastics, biocides, and formaldehyde, limewash, as explained by Bronwyn Riedel of Bauwerk Paints, is VOC-free, making it a more eco-conscious choice. Although most commonly found in neutral tones, pigmented versions are available. Lisa Rickert, CEO of Jolie Paint, suggests using a translucent wash over regular paint for an existing wall, emphasizing that limewash is applied with a brush to create texture and reflect light differently than rolled paint. She cautions against using paint with a sheen, as limewash produces a matte finish. Limewash is adaptable for both exterior and interior walls, though surface material is a crucial consideration. Jamie Davis, cofounder of Portola Paints, notes that traditional lime paints are best suited for raw masonry surfaces like plaster, cement, stucco, and brick. For non-porous interior surfaces, a primer is necessary, and Portola offers a specific primer for this purpose. The article provides examples of limewash applications in various rooms. In a bedroom, a designer used sandy beige limewash to create a tropical, vacation-like atmosphere after a canceled trip. A garage in Joshua Tree was transformed into a guest suite featuring saturated limewash tones in the sleeping nook and broad brushstrokes in the living area. In an industrial Los Angeles loft, white limewash was applied to offset exposed pipes and beams, achieving an airy, ethereal ambiance desired by the homeowner. The application process for limewash involves thin layers to prevent a powdery appearance. Riedel recommends applying each coat in one continuous session, suggesting it can be a communal and enjoyable activity. Davis advises testing the color and pattern on a smaller surface before full commitment. For porous surfaces like brick, one coat may suffice. For interior walls, the process involves first applying a primer coat with a regular paint roller. Subsequently, a 5-inch box brush is used to apply the limewash in a crisscross 'X' pattern, working from the top corner down, without overworking the same spot. It's important to allow the first coat to dry completely, as limewash appears darker when wet. A second coat is then applied using the same 'X' pattern. The article concludes by showcasing various limewash color options from brands like Portola Paint, Kalklitir Paints, and Bauwerk Color, including shades such as El Coyoté, Aqua, Amethyst, Petrolio, Merida, and Squid Ink, encouraging readers to explore the range of available hues for their home design projects. #LimewashPaint #TuscanVillaStyle #EcoFriendlyPaint #InteriorDesign #WallFinishes #HomeRenovation #DIYHomeDecor #PaintTrends #TexturedWalls

Binh and Thomas Allen, a couple with no prior property development experience, embarked on an ambitious three-year renovation of an untouched Victorian terrace in West Dulwich, South London. They discovered a property built in the early 1900s with many original features still intact, a rarity in today's market, and were captivated by its inherent charm. Their vision for the home was to blend its historical Victorian elements with modern mid-century furniture and contemporary furnishings, a reflection of their diverse backgrounds—Binh from Vietnam and Thomas from Switzerland. The renovation was not without significant challenges. The couple chose to live in the house throughout the process, even enduring a period where their roof was removed for a loft conversion. This meant sharing their living space with builders six days a week and contending with constant dust and exposure to the elements, including birds flying into their bedroom through the open roof. Despite these difficulties, their belief in their dream home never wavered. They meticulously managed the project themselves, from sourcing all materials and furnishings to keeping a strict handle on the budget, a task at which Thomas excelled with his detailed spreadsheets. A key motivation for purchasing a "doer-upper" was to maximize their investment. They began with essential upgrades, such as installing a new boiler and removing outdated carpeting. The renovation was phased over three years due to budget constraints. In the second year, they tackled bathroom renovations, and by the third year, they undertook the two most significant projects: the loft conversion and the kitchen remodeling. They gathered ideas by attending local open house sales, which also helped them understand the precedents for loft conversions and extensions in their area, aiding in the planning permission process. For the loft conversion, they hired a builder with the understanding that they would procure all materials themselves. This hands-on approach resulted in a 20 percent saving on the overall cost, and they learned to negotiate prices effectively. Although the work fell under permitted development, they enlisted an architect specializing in period properties to creatively maximize the space and ensure a premium finish. The architect designed a master suite without compromising ceiling height by strengthening existing joists and adding new ones, avoiding the need for steel beams that would have reduced headroom. They also used the opportunity of scaffolding to repaint windows, repoint, install solar panels, and repair exterior damage. The kitchen renovation involved removing a chimney breast to create space for units, taking out the back wall, and installing Crittall doors. They opted for long and wide timber floorboards to enhance the sense of space and a Shaker-style kitchen with brass details for an urban country aesthetic. Cost savings were achieved by selecting a marble-inspired matte worktop made from natural, recyclable materials, with an offcut used to create a feature shelf. Their patio design was inspired by travertine tiles seen on holiday in Israel, chosen for their creamy, warm appearance and minimalist, Mediterranean feel. They also installed a home office/cinema room in the garden, a multifunctional retreat surrounded by greenery. Inside, they maintained a consistent blue and white color palette, restored original Victorian cornices and ceiling roses, and chose a mix of modern and antique furnishings to create a unique character without being overly traditional. The entrance hall's original Victorian tiles were preserved, with broken ones replaced by matching imitation tiles, and the front door's frosted glass was replaced with stained glass inspired by the floor tiles. The bathroom features reclaimed period tiles from Spain, contrasted with white wall tiles and paint, accommodating a large shower and freestanding bath. #VictorianHome #HomeRenovation #LoftConversion #KitchenRemodel #InteriorDesign #DIYProject #PeriodProperty #HomeImprovement #LondonRealEstate

This article explores three distinctive wine rooms in Sonoma County, each showcasing unique design philosophies and storage solutions for wine enthusiasts. It highlights how personal collections evolve, prompting the need for dedicated and specialized storage spaces that go beyond conventional wine refrigerators. Conrad Trinks, a real estate company owner, started his wine collection in the mid-1990s and, by 2002, found his 500-bottle refrigerator inadequate. During a renovation of his Sonoma farmhouse, he created a 1,500-bottle capacity wine room. This alcove, designed by Artistic Wine Cellars, is located off the dining room, behind French doors. The room features insulated walls, floors, and ceiling, maintaining a constant 58 degrees Fahrenheit to protect the wine from Sonoma's high summer temperatures. The racks are made of unstained redwood, with custom spaces for larger bottles. Patrick Wallen of Artistic Wine Cellars notes a growing trend towards modern designs and alternative materials like metal and Plexiglas, moving away from traditional wood. Custom cellars, like Trinks's, range from $10,000 for basic climate-controlled closets to over three times that for more elaborate designs with redwood racks and granite countertops. Trinks's French farmhouse-style home complements the wine room, which currently holds around 800 bottles, allowing for future expansion. Robert “Bud” and Linda Hausen, living in a Tuscan-style home in Sebastopol, chose a creative approach for their wine cellar. Built into a hillside basement, their cellar eschews traditional wooden racks in favor of terra cotta-colored clay sewer tiles, cut into 11-inch lengths and mortared together. These tiles not only serve as unique storage but also help keep the wine a few degrees cooler. The cellar is naturally insulated by its hillside location, maintaining a temperature of 66 to 68 degrees Fahrenheit without active climate control. Linda Hausen emphasized an antique, imperfect aesthetic for the tile placement, drawing inspiration from old European wine cellars, a vision eventually realized by their contractor despite initial resistance. The cellar, which holds 750 bottles, incorporates reclaimed wood tables and wrought-iron gates, with inventory managed by CellarTracker software. The Hausens' collection grew significantly after they moved to Sebastopol in 2005. Robert and Madi Mount of Santa Rosa possess a 4,000-bottle capacity cellar, housing 2,500 wines. Installed in 2006 by Wallen of Artistic Wine Cellars, this cellar is part of their Mediterranean-style home on a 10-acre hillside property. The entrance is situated outside the main house, near the kitchen deck, featuring an arched wooden door framed by multicolored stone. The cellar comprises a tasting area kept at a comfortable 68 degrees, separated by glass doors from the main storage area, which is maintained at an ideal 55 degrees. It also includes humidity control and non-UV lighting to preserve the wine. Robert Mount utilizes Vinfolio software to track his collection, providing details on bottle location, market value, and optimal drinking times. The article also provides practical advice for those on a tighter budget, noting that cooling units are often the most expensive component of a wine storage area. For simpler needs, if a room is naturally cool, active cooling and extensive wall preparation might be unnecessary. Alternatives include wine refrigerators, self-contained wine cabinets for starter collections, or freestanding racks placed in the coolest, darkest, and least disturbed areas of a home to protect wine from heat, light, and motion. #WineCellar #HomeDesign #WineStorage #SonomaCounty #CustomWineRooms #InteriorDesign #WineCollection #ArchitecturalFeatures #LuxuryHomes

This article highlights a 150-acre estate located at 313 Taylor Road, Peacham, VT, described as a rustic-chic farmhouse and family compound. The property offers an expansive living space of 5,500 square feet, featuring eight bedrooms and nine bathrooms. A central theme of the interior design is the artful use of worn wood, incorporating salvaged barn board walls, reclaimed pine flooring, and exposed hand-hewn timbers along the cathedral ceilings. This design choice contributes to a treehouse-esque ambiance, particularly appealing to younger residents for activities such as homeschooling. One of the estate's most notable features is its indoor pool, situated within a 40-by-60-foot solarium. This pool area is designed to resemble a waterpark, complete with faux and real rock and tree accents, waterfalls, and underwater lighting, offering both recreational and fitness opportunities. Beyond the main residence, the 150-acre grounds provide extensive outdoor amenities, including multiple porches, five ponds, miles of carriage roads, and natural trails. For equestrian enthusiasts, the property boasts paddocks and barn space capable of accommodating up to 20 horses, along with an indoor riding arena. In addition to the primary farmhouse, the estate includes three guest houses, one of which is a modernist cabin uniquely positioned above Ewell Pond. While the overall aesthetic leans towards rustic, the property also incorporates refined elements, such as mahogany entryways, cedar walk-in closets, French doors, and marble countertops. The interiors are further enhanced by hand-painted ceramic tiles in bathrooms and kitchens, contributing a Spanish farmhouse appeal, and a mix of modern glass globe light fixtures alongside antique pendant lights. The main house offers several inviting spaces for relaxation and gathering, including a double-sided fireplace, a completely skylit dining room, and a cozy reading nook. The generous expanse of the property allows for extensive outdoor activities, whether on horseback or on foot, providing a sense of seclusion and ample room to explore without needing to leave the premises. The article provides contact information for Wade Weathers at LandVest for further inquiries about the property. #VermontRealEstate #FarmhouseStyle #LuxuryProperty #RusticChic #IndoorPool #EquestrianProperty #FamilyCompound #HomeDesign #EstateLiving

This blog post highlights a magnificent Italian Villa located in the gated community of Glen Lakes, Dallas, emphasizing its exceptional design, craftsmanship, and functionality. Built in 1996, the residence stands on a unique double lot, originally acquired from Jerry Stewart, the architect of Glen Lakes, and is bordered on three sides by water, offering picturesque views. The property has had only two owners, a testament to its liveability and well-thought-out design. The villa is the result of a collaborative effort by a "dream team" of talents. Tommy Ford Construction, a third-generation family-owned and operated group, oversaw the build. They introduced the original owners to architect Ralph Duesing, who was responsible for the home's design. Ann Schooler, principal with Schooler, Kellogg & Co., served as the interior designer, contributing to a cohesive and elegant aesthetic. Corey Ford of Tommy Ford Construction noted that the clients initiated the concept of a central entry with rooms leading off it and a large two-story domed ceiling, a vision that the team brought to life with precision. Duesing's design prowess is evident in the home's symmetrical layout, with garages flanking the main structure to create a balanced mirror image. The quality, craftsmanship, and intricate details are apparent throughout every room, each offering unique and spectacular elements. The entry rotunda, a dramatic feature inspired by the owners, sets a formal tone. It boasts an artisan inlaid marble mosaic floor, pilasters, wall niches for art, and *oiel-de-beouf* windows with elaborate iron grills that allow light to stream in from the upper gallery. A stunning three-tiered Waterford crystal chandelier hangs from the thirty-foot-high domed ceiling, enhancing the grandeur. For convenience, an elevator alcove is situated near the curved staircase. Formal rooms, including the dining room, are characterized by custom millwork and high ceilings. A long gallery hallway extends from the rear of the rotunda, ideal for displaying significant artworks, and provides access to the great room, kitchen, and owner's suite. The great room evokes a private club atmosphere, featuring richly paneled walls, a coffered ceiling, custom built-ins, a full-service bar, and ample wine storage. A stately cast stone fireplace anchors the room, offering a cozy space to relax while enjoying views of the landscaped yard and waterway. The kitchen is designed for serious cooks, equipped with an 8-burner Thermador gas range, double ovens, a Sub-Zero refrigerator and freezer, extensive workspace, and a large center island seating six. Double French doors provide direct access to a rear patio overlooking the waterway. Custom hand-painted tiles by Danish artist Bjorn Wiinblad add an elegant touch to the kitchen's design. The owner's suite serves as a private sanctuary, complete with custom moldings and a large fireplace. It opens to an interior loggia with a barrel-vaulted ceiling and three sets of French doors leading to a private terrace overlooking the waterway and lush landscaping. A practical and inspired feature of this suite is a private entry to an attached two-car garage, eliminating the need to traverse the entire house with luggage. The luxurious principal bath features Turkish marble on walls, counter surfaces, and the shower enclosure, along with a jetted tub and separate water closets, creating a spa-like retreat. The second floor includes three guest suites and a handsome study. A notable feature in the study is a hidden door, activated by a button, which reveals a secret office space with a built-in desk and glass-fronted cabinets. A private half-bath is also accessible from this hidden office. The study itself features rich wood paneling, bookcases, a fireplace, and French doors leading to a private balcony with treetop and waterway views. The Glen Lakes community provides a secure and amenity-rich environment with 24/7 guarded gate access, patrol, hike and bike trails, a clubhouse, swimming pool, tennis courts, and a dog park. The property, located at 7711 Glen Albens Circle, is offered at $3.495 million by The Perry-Miller-Streiff Group at Dave Perry-Miller, presenting a rare opportunity for elegant, comfortable, and private family living. #GlenLakes #ItalianVilla #LuxuryHome #DallasRealEstate #CustomHome #ArchitecturalDesign #InteriorDesign #GatedCommunity #WaterfrontProperty

A newly constructed, three-bedroom, four-and-a-half-bathroom estate in Sonoma, located just minutes from the historic plaza, is currently listed for $11.5 million. This 5,200-square-foot residence, situated within a vineyard, features a contemporary, open-concept layout that is bathed in natural light. The interior design emphasizes a restrained modern aesthetic, utilizing exquisite materials such as classic marbles and wide wood planks in a palette of mostly whites and natural wood tones. Walls of windows throughout the home create a seamless visual connection to the surrounding outdoor environment. The property is designed with a series of patios and meticulously maintained landscaping, alongside a sparkling swimming pool. The pool is adorned with tiles in various shades of blue, adding a subtle touch of color to the exterior. Completing the outdoor living experience are two covered seating areas, one of which includes an outdoor television, and a separate guesthouse with one bedroom and one bathroom. These structures are arranged in a modular fashion around the yard. The landscaping features low-water grasses, thoughtfully arranged in a dotted pattern that mirrors the orderly rows of the adjacent vineyard. This harmonious design integrates the estate with its picturesque wine country setting, offering a luxurious and visually cohesive living space. #SonomaEstate #VineyardProperty #LuxuryRealEstate #ModernHomeDesign #OpenConceptLiving #OutdoorLivingSpaces #Guesthouse #WineCountryProperty #HighEndFinishes

The Gilded Age, spanning the last quarter of the 19th century in the US, was a period marked by significant economic growth, industrial expansion, and a stark increase in wealth inequality. This era saw the rise of incredibly affluent families, often referred to as the top 1% of earners, who amassed vast fortunes from industries such as railroads, shipping, and banking. These newly wealthy elites, exemplified by families like the Vanderbilts, sought to display their prosperity through the construction of extravagant residences and the hosting of elaborate social events. The Vanderbilt family, for instance, owned numerous mansions, including ten (now demolished) on Manhattan’s Fifth Avenue and the still-standing Châteauesque-style Biltmore Estate in North Carolina. Gilded Age mansions are architectural embodiments of the era's opulence, often drawing inspiration from, and even surpassing the grandeur of, French chateaux and Italian villas. This article showcases nine such historic homes currently available for purchase across the United States, each offering a glimpse into the lavish lifestyles of 19th-century American society at varying scales. These properties include a Beaux-Arts Manhattan townhouse, built in 1901 by Horgan and Slattery, featuring a Venetian Renaissance-influenced terracotta façade, oak wainscoting, pocket doors, and dramatic windows. Another property is an architect’s Italianate villa in Newport, Rhode Island, designed and built by Samuel Powel in the 1850s, which boasts a colonnaded veranda, lunettes above windows, and parkland grounds. Also highlighted is Emily Thorn Vanderbilt’s former summer residence in Massachusetts, an 1886 red-roofed, shingle-style country estate set on 89 acres in the Berkshires. This expansive property, known as renovated Elm Court, features over 65 rooms, including a stately ballroom, and grounds designed by Frederick Law Olmsted. A Park Avenue duplex in Manhattan, built by Beaux-Arts architect Stanford White, is presented with its grand salon, diamond-patterned oak-beamed ceiling, and a wooden staircase leading to a library mezzanine. A clapboard Italianate house in Brooklyn’s Clinton Hill Historic District, dating back to the 1860s, is noted for its grand portico, sunlit parlor, restored mouldings, and a ‘secret garden’. Further examples include an 1885 Kansas red brick home with a deep veranda, tall windows, and a decadent wood-lined interior featuring a grand staircase and coffered ceiling. A white stucco Denver mansion, designed by Fisher & Fisher in 1904, showcases wrought-iron gates, crafted woodwork, and modern amenities like a retrofitted elevator, chef’s kitchen, and home cinema. A colourful, wood-lined mansion in Saint Paul, Minnesota, built in 1886, is distinguished by its vibrant green and orange exterior, natural and varnished woodwork, and a working pipe organ. Finally, a Detroit apartment located in the converted 1882 Frederick Butler House, drawing on French Renaissance Second Empire style, offers a gut-renovated condo that maintains its historic ambience with arched double doors, tall windows, and a marble and iron fireplace. #GildedAge #HistoricHomes #LuxuryRealEstate #ArchitecturalStyles #BeauxArts #ItalianateVilla #Mansion #PropertyForSale #USArchitecture

This article provides a weekly roundup of luxury real estate listings across the United States, showcasing properties with remarkable views, enviable locations, and lavish amenities. The featured properties offer a glimpse into high-end residential design and extensive facility offerings. Each listing details the property's size, number of bedrooms and bathrooms, lot size, key architectural features, and unique amenities. The tour begins with Villa dei Fiori in Bel Air, California, an 18,784-square-foot estate featuring nine bedrooms and 12.5+ bathrooms on a 3.32-acre lot. This property boasts elegant interior fixtures such as cathedral ceilings, floor-to-ceiling glass doors, and 18th-century chandeliers. Its exterior includes formal rose gardens, a croquet lawn, a botanical garden with a koi pond, and a swimming pool with a cabana. Amenities for entertaining include a wine cellar, screening room, a disco/lounge with a bar and kitchenette, a gym with a sauna, private garages, and an Argentinian paddle tennis court, alongside a separate two-bedroom guest house. Next, Chestnut Hall in Atlanta, Georgia, is presented as a European art and architecture-inspired mansion, spanning 18.55 acres with seven bedrooms and 8.5+ bathrooms. Notable features include 19th-century Parisian double doors and a Vatican-inspired art gallery. It offers a four-room gym and spa, a swimming pool, baseball and basketball facilities, and a Jerusalem limestone balcony. The estate also includes a four-bedroom guest house and a one-bedroom pool house. This property has been a filming location for Hollywood productions. Mullach, a country estate in Highlands, North Carolina, offers 360-degree mountain views on a 6.5-acre lot with five bedrooms and 5.5 bathrooms. The single-story main house provides a movie theater, sunroom, and multiple fireplaces, complemented by a guest house with two bedrooms and a full guest suite. Woodland Glen in Woodland, Minnesota, is a manor house on a 3.49-acre lot with six bedrooms and 9.5+ bathrooms, designed to evoke the charm of the Cotswolds. Its expansive exteriors include lawns, gardens, and lake access, while interiors feature marble floors, high ceilings, and curved staircases. Amenities include 12 fireplaces, a pool, a tennis court, and a seven-car garage. Penthouse 96 in Manhattan, New York, is an opulent condo atop 432 Park Avenue. This 8,255-square-foot residence features six bedrooms and 7.5+ bathrooms, offering Central Park views from 24 oversized windows and a library with a wood-burning fireplace. Residents have access to a private restaurant, fitness center, pool, sauna, steam rooms, and a billiards room. A secluded Long Island mansion in Sagaponack, New York, provides 357 feet of ocean frontage with views of the Peconic Land Trust dunescape, Long Island Sound, and surrounding farmland. This 13,690-square-foot property includes 10 bedrooms and 12.5+ bathrooms on a 5.18-acre lot. An elegant Wisconsin property in Eagle River, resembling a French castle, is situated on a 5.93-acre lakefront lot. It comprises a 14,836-square-foot main castle with four bedrooms and 4.5 bathrooms, two additional houses (three-bedroom and four-bedroom), and a studio apartment in the wet boathouse, along with two garages. An Italianesque villa in Bloomfield Township, Michigan, offers views of Turtle Lake. This 15,123-square-foot property has six bedrooms and 8.5+ bathrooms on a 1.79-acre lot, featuring mosaic walls, covered terraces, stone patios, a two-story library, a pool, jacuzzi, movie theater, bar, game room, sauna, and fitness room. Finally, an expansive Pennsylvania property in Fenelton spans 423 acres with an 18,000-square-foot house featuring six bedrooms and 7.5 bathrooms. This estate is suitable for both business and private use, offering a game room, home gym, office, and en-suite bathrooms. Its exterior is designed for equestrians and hunters, with a 10-stall barn, pastures, riding trails, and a forest for game hunting, alongside a basketball court, outdoor kitchen, pavilion, dance floor, and a raised stage. The article concludes with a mention of a Beverly Hills mansion, a 30,610-square-foot property with eight bedrooms and 20 bathrooms on a 9.9-acre lot, boasting mountain and canyon views, a waterfall entryway, home theater, multiple bars and tasting rooms, two elevators, a gym, salon, interior courtyard, guest house, pool house, outdoor cinema, and fire features. #LuxuryRealEstate #Mansion #Villa #RealEstateMarket #HomeDesign #LuxuryAmenities #PropertyShowcase #EstateLiving #ArchitecturalDesign

Interior designer Sarah Magness undertook the renovation of an early 19th-century property in Panzano, Italy, transforming it into a modern Tuscan villa while preserving its historical essence. The project involved a main villa, a barn, and a guesthouse, focusing on a design that harmonized with the natural landscape and abundant sunlight of Tuscany. Magness was particularly drawn to the property's orientation, where major rooms face west, providing spectacular sunset views. The homeowner, a long-standing client, desired a residence that felt integrated with its tree-lined surroundings, capable of hosting family and social gatherings comfortably, and featuring subtle traditional and historical influences without being overly ornate. The existing structures provided an ideal foundation, as their original design already promoted excellent air and light circulation, reducing the need for artificial lighting and air conditioning. Consequently, the main house's floor plan remained largely unchanged, with no interior walls moved due to its robust original construction. While the architectural integrity was largely maintained, the interiors, last renovated in the 1980s, required significant updates. Magness's approach honored Tuscany's architectural heritage through material selections, blending them with contemporary comfort. Much of the original terra-cotta flooring, wood beams, and plaster walls were preserved. Local craftsmen were employed to restore and clean surfaces, ensuring authenticity and quality. All marble used in the renovation was sourced from Carrara, and cabinetry was crafted by the Como-based company Promemoria, highlighting a commitment to local resources and expertise. The furnishing strategy combined antique pieces with new additions. The clients' appreciation for antiques meant that some prominent items inherited from the previous owners were integrated, contributing to a contemporary Italian aesthetic within the main house. The entrance features a barrel-vaulted brick ceiling and antique pieces that function as sculptural art, designed for circulation rather than prolonged dwelling. The dining room, also containing inherited antique furniture including a 19th-century sideboard, was enhanced with vertical mirrors to maximize natural light, particularly from the west-facing orientation. The formal living room maintains a minimalist, all-white aesthetic with comfortable sectionals, acknowledging that most entertaining occurs outdoors. A short distance from the main house, the former caretaker's residence, 'casa dei custodi,' was converted into a self-sufficient apartment with two bedrooms, a bathroom, and a kitchen. The most extensive transformation was the barn, initially the most dilapidated structure. Magness collaborated with New York–based architect Brian Boyle to extensively gut and refit it. This former hayloft now serves as a luxurious guesthouse, complete with two bedrooms, two-and-a-half baths, a central living room, a kitchen, and direct access to a pool. A key design element in the barn's renovation was relocating the staircase to the west wall, which allowed sunlight to illuminate both floors through a latticed window, a significant improvement from its previous dark, dungeon-like state. Magness emphasized working in harmony with the natural environment, ensuring that the redesigned spaces quietly fulfill the family's needs while respecting the existing character of the property. Magness underscores that despite extensive planning, the true understanding of a residence comes from experiencing it firsthand, observing how light interacts with the spaces, calling it a 'holistic experience.' #TuscanVilla #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #ItalianCountryside #SarahMagness #ArchitecturalHeritage #LuxuryHome #HistoricPreservation #Panzano

A Martha's Vineyard property, originally built in the late 1990s by Shope Reno Wharton, has undergone a significant reimagining, transforming into a modern coastal retreat named Red Cliff. The project was a collaborative effort involving Hutker Architects, interior designer Paul Commito, Martha’s Vineyard Construction Co. (MVCC), and landscape architect Horiuchi Solien Inc. The renovation aimed to integrate modern and coastal design elements, deviating from the client's more traditional primary residence, while emphasizing the natural beauty and ocean views of its Chilmark location. The redesign prioritized an open floor plan, moving away from the property's initial division by paneled walls. The 5,700-square-foot house now features crisp white walls, serving as a gallery-like backdrop for the client’s growing modern art collection. White oak floors guide visitors through the interior, which blends natural materials and hues with contemporary touches. Strategic placement of rugs and furniture defines distinct yet interconnected spaces, preventing a disjointed feel. A notable piece is a bright blue sculptural bench by Casey McCafferty, crafted from a fallen Central Park tree, which subtly divides the dining and living areas. The interior design sought to create a warm and inviting atmosphere despite the large, modern space and cool color palette, with Paul Commito emphasizing coziness for guests. The living room showcases black trusses and an Allied Maker fixture on the ceiling, complemented by a palette of coral, green, blue, sandy taupe, and brown in natural fibers. Furnishings include Roman & Williams Guild sofas, B&B Italia armchairs, and custom-stained wood stumps from John Thayer Cabinetmakers. The kitchen, once a closed-off galley, was transformed into a central, open area that overlooks both the pool terrace and the Atlantic Ocean. Hutker partner Phil Regan highlighted this change, noting the kitchen's improved views and social integration within the great room. White oak accents continue into the kitchen, which is equipped with integrated Miele, Sub-Zero, and BlueStar appliances. The kitchen's central island, painted in Farrow & Ball Stiffkey Blue and topped with Caesarstone fresh concrete, is a focal point. Allied Maker pendants hang above, and Mark Albrecht Studio leather-woven stools offer front-row seating for the expansive ocean views. A large picture window behind the sinks, flanked by glossy, light blue-green Ann Sacks tiles, frames the cliffs, sandy beach, surfers, and gardens, seamlessly connecting the interior with the shimmering blue beyond. The primary suite provides a private sanctuary with a neutral-toned aesthetic, featuring a Materia chandelier and a shearling Audo lounge chair, nestled within native seagrasses. Its en suite bathroom includes a Blu Bathworks soaking tub with views of the pastoral landscape. The exterior spaces are equally designed to embrace the natural surroundings. Granite steps lead through native flora to various outdoor living areas, including a fire pit with Sutherland Adirondacks, an Olympic-length lap pool, a hot tub, and a lounge area, all strategically positioned to maximize ocean views. This comprehensive renovation successfully merged sophisticated modern design with the inherent beauty of Martha's Vineyard, creating a harmonious coastal dwelling. #Martha'sVineyard #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #CoastalLiving #ModernArchitecture #LuxuryHomes #ArchitecturalRenovation #LandscapeDesign

This article highlights an enormous French chateau-style mansion located in Kleinburg, Vaughan, which has recently been listed for $11 million. The property, situated at 80 Orico Court, is a substantial 13,000-square-foot residence featuring five bedrooms and seven bathrooms. The design aesthetic is characterized by ultra-luxury, with extensive use of white marble and opulent decor throughout. The exterior of the mansion is enclosed by iron fencing and adorned with columns and decorative dormers, enhancing its exclusive and grand appearance. An ornate gate further contributes to this sense of exclusivity. Upon entering, a grand winding staircase with a wrought iron railing dominates the foyer, which is paved with pristine white marble flooring and finishes. Adjacent to the main foyer is a formal sitting room, notable for its soaring ceiling heights and crystal lighting fixtures. Further into the home, a formal white dining room is presented with coffered ceilings and distinctive club-like blue ring lighting that accentuates the dining area. The gourmet kitchen is a prominent feature, equipped with a butler's pantry, marble backsplash, granite countertops, and high-end appliances. This space is described as opulent, featuring customized millwork around the island, ceiling trim, and the oven hood. The kitchen seamlessly connects to the formal living and dining areas, maintaining the consistent theme of coffered ceilings and crystal chandeliers. The primary bedroom is generously sized and continues the intricate millwork detailing. It includes a wrap-around fireplace and a six-piece ensuite bathroom. This primary suite also offers access to a balcony that overlooks the garden and backyard. The basement level of the mansion is extensively developed, providing a range of additional amenities. These include a gym, a wine cellar, a recreation room, a wet bar, a nanny suite, and a laundry room. For entertainment, the house features a private movie theatre, adding to its luxurious offerings. The wine cellar is designed to accommodate thousands of wine bottles, maintained at an optimal temperature. The outdoor area features a fiberglass pool with a matching cabana and waterfall features. The property spans almost two acres, and photographs taken in the fall showcase the surrounding natural forest. The annual property taxes for this opulent Kleinburg residence are approximately $30,000. #LuxuryRealEstate #Vaughan #FrenchManor #Kleinburg #MillionDollarListing #HomeDesign #RealEstate #OpulentLiving

This article showcases six distinctive homes located along the Oregon Coast, highlighting their unique architectural styles, interior features, and scenic surroundings. Each property offers a glimpse into diverse living experiences, ranging from historic Victorian charm to modern, energy-efficient designs. The first home featured is a four-bedroom Victorian in Astoria, built in 1863. This residence maintains its original painted-wood details, crown molding, chair-rail trim, built-ins, and patterned inlaid wood floors. It includes two gas fireplaces, a gas woodstove, an eat-in kitchen, a family room, a dining room, a library, and a covered wraparound porch. Situated on an oversized corner lot, the property boasts landscaped grounds with a lawn, paths, flowering shrubs, and garden beds. Its location offers walking distance to downtown Astoria and the Columbia River promenade, making it appealing for those seeking historical character and accessibility. Next, a three-bedroom mid-century modern home from 1969 is presented in Warrenton, within the Surf Pines community. This house is positioned a block from the beach and Sunset Lake, close to county parks. It features hardwood floors, oversized windows, a lower-level entry from the garage, floating stairs to the upper level, an eat-in open kitchen, a dining area, a living room with built-ins and a fireplace, and an art studio, complemented by a deck. The outdoor space includes trees and a grassy yard, offering a blend of modern design and natural surroundings. In Gleneden Beach, a three-bedroom beachfront Craftsman-style home, built in 1991, is highlighted. Located on a peninsula between the Pacific Ocean and Siletz Bay, this furnished property provides sweeping views of both. Its interior boasts exposed beams and rafters, vaulted ceilings, a floor-to-ceiling basalt and limestone gas fireplace, a kitchen with a breakfast nook, a sunroom, and a main suite with a library loft. The exterior features a bayside deck and two oceanside decks, one equipped with a hot tub. The natural environment surrounding the home includes the sea and a national wildlife refuge, emphasizing its picturesque setting. Moving to Seal Rock, an 8-acre property with a three-bedroom home in a wilderness area is showcased, located 15 minutes from the ocean and 20 minutes from Newport. Constructed in 2005, this house features wood-clad interiors, a detailed carved door, a vaulted main space with exposed rafters and clerestory windows, and a kitchen with Craftsman-style cabinetry. The lower level includes a hot tub, sauna, and wine room. The wooded property further offers landscaped gardens and a horse barn and arena, catering to those desiring privacy and amenities. Bandon features a two-bedroom, open-plan, energy-efficient home built recently on a mountaintop lot, offering views of mountains and forest. This residence includes high ceilings, dark-bamboo floors, a wood-burning stove, two decks, an eat-in chef's kitchen, and a finished lower level with an infrared sauna. The 10.6-acre property is enhanced with gardens, lawns, wooded paths, a two-vehicle carport, and a unique hobbit house with its own fenced, landscaped yard, presenting a blend of modern living and whimsical charm. Finally, a four-bedroom Craftsman-style home from 1906 in North Bend is presented, situated on a southern Oregon peninsula one block from a large waterside park. This historic house preserves its original hardwood floors, wood trim, carved staircase, leaded-glass windows, and interior French doors. Its rooms comprise a living room with a woodstove, an eat-in kitchen, a reading nook, and a sunroom. The lot includes a lawn, a fenced patio with a fire pit, two garages, and a carport suitable for a boat or RV, combining historical character with practical features for coastal living. #OregonCoast #ScenicHomes #RealEstate #VictorianArchitecture #MidCenturyModern #CraftsmanStyle #LuxuryProperties #CoastalLiving #UniqueHomes

The increasing popularity of wine consumption, ranging from casual enjoyment to serious collecting, necessitates effective and aesthetic wine storage solutions within modern homes. While beverage refrigerators suffice for short-term needs, accumulating dozens or more bottles calls for temperature- and humidity-controlled environments to preserve quality and value. Modern design trends are moving wine storage out of traditional basements and into more visible, upstairs locations, transforming them into significant focal points within the home. Designers in the luxury market, such as Nar Bustamante of Nar Design Group, find clients frequently requesting elaborate wine storage. These often take the form of glass-enclosed, temperature-controlled rooms that serve as statement pieces. Sophisticated mechanical cooling systems now allow wine to be stored optimally outside of basements. Placing wine rooms behind glass offers homeowners an opportunity to present and celebrate their collections, creating an elevated, restaurant-like atmosphere that encourages guest engagement and conversation. For instance, Bustamante designed a shallow wine room as a backdrop to a dining area, transforming a standard wall into an immersive, rustic experience that guests appreciate. This central placement, often near stairs, kitchens, and bars, ensures high visibility from multiple living spaces, emphasizing the shift from hidden cellars to celebrated displays. Lighting is crucial, with options ranging from vertical lights to chandeliers to set the mood for entertaining, alongside general and task lighting for practical stocking. Larger wine rooms may even include seating, tables for showcasing art or wines, and cabinetry for accessories, facilitating an interactive experience. Richard Sherer of Deep River Partners addresses wine storage across a spectrum of client needs, from casual drinkers to serious collectors. His projects frequently incorporate various solutions, from simple wine racks and paneled beverage refrigerators that blend with cabinetry for short-term use, to full-scale wine rooms featuring mechanical climate control, extensive racking systems, and even tasting areas with countertops and seating. Sherer notes that a client's lifestyle dictates the complexity of the solution. He often combines short-term storage in kitchens or bars with dedicated wine rooms for larger collections. In one Craftsman-style home, he integrated an undercounter refrigerator in the foyer's hospitality bar for immediate serving and a climate-controlled wine room as an extension of the main bar. This wine room, with its glass entrance and a back wall shared with the dining room, functions as an artistic expression, showcasing wine bottle silhouettes through rippled art glass, creating a unique backdrop without overwhelming the adjacent spaces. For renovations, Sherer has converted existing closets into functional wine rooms with wet bars, artfully displaying bottles on metal racking systems against original brickwork, highlighting the experience and personal connection these spaces offer. Lynn Holender of Lynn Holender Designs observes that open-concept living has significantly impacted how entertaining spaces, including bars and wine rooms, are integrated into homes. She incorporates wine storage in almost all her custom home designs. For smaller collections, paneled beverage refrigerators are seamlessly integrated into kitchen cabinetry. For clients who entertain frequently and require more extensive storage, wine rooms are designed to showcase collections, often connected to main entertaining areas like living or dining rooms. Beyond temperature and humidity control, Holender prioritizes visual access through glass or iron doors and emphasizes traditionally styled elements such as liberal use of wood and brick. These materials evoke the authentic, moody ambiance of underground wine cellars, making the space feel warmer and more inviting. In a recent custom home, she designed a wine room adjacent to a wet bar, visible from the dining room, featuring brickwork in traditional and herringbone patterns, and white oak shelves that store over 200 bottles and accessories. The shelves' slight curve adds a visual softness and improves maneuverability. A white oak ledge within the room provides a practical surface for uncorking bottles, underscoring the functional and aesthetic considerations in modern wine storage design. #WineStorage #HomeDesign #LuxuryHomes #InteriorDesign #WineRooms #StorageSolutions #EntertainingSpace #KitchenAndBathDesign #CustomHomes

This article highlights several wineries that seamlessly blend exceptional wine production with outstanding architectural and interior design, offering visitors an elevated sensory experience. It features insights from Bay Area-based designers who identify these locations as exemplary for their aesthetic appeal and harmonious integration with their natural surroundings. The selected wineries showcase a diverse range of design philosophies, from modern interpretations of farmhouse aesthetics to culturally rich hacienda styles and contemporary art installations. Flowers Vineyard & Winery in Healdsburg, designed by Walker Warner Architects, exemplifies a sophisticated organic style. Its black wood exterior contrasts strikingly with the vibrant surrounding flora, a design choice praised for creating a dramatic yet harmonious balance between architecture and nature. The interiors are characterized by a refined blend of bald cypress, concrete, and oak, complemented by art from local talents like Evan Shively and Zoe Dering. The outdoor cabanas, designed by Nelson Byrd Woltz, offer private yet expansive views of the landscape, contributing to an overall experience that feels both luxurious and welcoming. Promontory in Oakville, Napa Valley, is lauded by designer Jay Jeffers as an "architectural marvel." Founded by William (Bill) Harlan, this winery focuses on transforming wine tasting into an artistic experience, not only through its Cabernet Sauvignon-dominant vintages but also through its expansive, wood-paneled rooms and pergolas. The design masterfully blurs the lines between man-made structures and the natural environment, enhancing the wine-tasting journey. Scribe Winery in Sonoma offers a sought-after experience, known for its good design and exclusive wine club tastings. Leah Harmatz of Field Theory Design appreciates the winery's interiors, which feature layers of plaster and paint that narrate its history, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The Spanish-style hacienda, with its palm-lined driveway, stained glass windows, unique light fixtures, and abundant houseplants, provides a picturesque and cozy setting that transports visitors to another place, making the wine-tasting experience feel like being in someone's home. Ram’s Gate Winery, designed by architect Howard Backen, presents a modern reinterpretation of traditional Carneros farmsteads. Backen's characteristic farmhouse aesthetic and his skill in blending indoor and outdoor spaces connect the 21,000-square-foot property with its breathtaking surroundings. Tineke Triggs praises the thoughtfully curated interior decor, which uses soft earth tones and muted colors to evoke tranquility, allowing guests to deeply connect with the serene beauty of the vineyard. The interiors feature pitched, wood-paneled ceilings and oversized light fixtures, creating an awe-inspiring atmosphere. Gundlach Bundschu Winery, a family-run establishment with over 160 years of history, combines historical significance with contemporary design. The original 19th-century stone winery now serves as the tasting room, and the property includes Mary’s House, built in 1919 by Albert Farr. Elizabeth Bundschu collaborated on the current interiors to infuse a fun and creative twist into this rustic setting, making it a favorite for its unique blend of history and modern flair. Donum Estate in Sonoma offers a unique experience for art and wine enthusiasts, boasting one of the world’s largest accessible private sculpture collections. With over 50 sculptures spread across its 200-acre grounds, including Jaume Plensa’s "Sanna," the estate allows guests to enjoy wine tastings while touring an outdoor art gallery. Barbara Bright highlights the magical experience of being outdoors, surrounded by art, while sipping wine. The winery's modernist facade further reinforces its identity as a multi-sensory museum. #WineryDesign #ArchitecturalMarvels #InteriorDesign #WineCountry #CaliforniaWine #LuxuryTravel #DesignInspiration #ModernFarmhouse #ArtInstallations

This article highlights a sprawling 14,000-square-foot, six-bedroom lakeside villa in Wisconsin, designed by Jessica Jubelirer, which serves as a testament to intricate decorative design and global artistry. The homeowners, having spent a decade traveling globally with their daughters, sought to create a family home that echoed the grand estates and ornate palaces they encountered during their time abroad, particularly in Asia. Their vision was to craft a residence unlike any they had seen, pushing the boundaries of conventional design. The project spanned five years and involved extensive international sourcing trips by Jubelirer and her team. This undertaking allowed for a deep exploration into various artistic realms, from hand-painted Portuguese tiles to midcentury Swedish textiles. The collaboration between the designer and the homeowners was driven by a shared appreciation for history, nature, and artisanship, fostering an environment where creative energy could flourish. Each space within the villa is uniquely conceived and meticulously detailed. For instance, the dining room features a hand-painted mural by Gracie, inspired by classic Americana folklore and the surrounding Wisconsin forest. This mural serves as a rich backdrop to other design elements, such as carved ceiling molding based on Swedish tapestries and quilt-like window treatments custom-fabricated by Penn & Fletcher, echoing the delicate pattern of a beloved dress. The billiard room showcases a fortuitous discovery: wood paneling crafted by Féau Boiseries, a Parisian millworks company. The paneling, made of Cerris white oak and inset with hand-loomed French horsehair, was inspired by a reclaimed piece from a 1930s Jean-Michel Frank project, bridging traditional design with modern execution. Other rooms draw inspiration from diverse cultural aesthetics. The laundry room incorporates elements from traditional Scandinavian farmhouses, while a children's guest bedroom features a bespoke Fromental wall covering depicting local flora and fauna, designed to appear as if raining down from a cupola skylight adorned with custom ceramic subway tiles from Waterworks. The great room evokes a rustic mountain cabin with an exposed beam ceiling and a stone fireplace, and the downstairs entertainment area mimics an Ottoman living room with intricate Suzani wall upholstery. The exterior landscaping, designed by renowned AD100 Dutch landscape architect Piet Oudolf, complements the interior's grandeur, integrating the home with its 40-acre forested lakeside property. This comprehensive project allowed the homeowners to fulfill their mission of being patrons of the arts, resulting in a residence where every detail, from furniture to wall coverings, tells a story of global inspiration and artisanal craftsmanship. #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #LuxuryHomes #ArtisanCraftsmanship #GlobalInspiration #JessicaJubelirer #WisconsinLakesideVilla #DecorativeArts #CustomInteriors