Gorgeous 'Zen-inspired' Palm Beach mansion is on the market for $25 million

The article features the 1966 Richard Neutra-designed home at 3737 Oakfield Drive in Sherman Oaks, California, which is currently on the market for $1.55 million. This residence is one of 17 'stilt homes' known as Platform Houses, characterized by their significant cantilevering structures that extend over the steep valley slopes, offering dramatic views. The 1,800-square-foot house embodies classic Neutra design principles, including expansive floor-to-ceiling glass, an open and simple floor plan, and a strong horizontal architectural emphasis. From the street, the property presents as a typical midcentury home with a flat overhanging roof, stucco and wood cladding, and conventional punched windows. A privacy fence constructed from wood and weathered steel enhances its street-facing facade. However, upon entering, the interior reveals a dramatic contrast, particularly at the rear, where large floor-to-ceiling windows frame views of the valley. The open-plan living and dining areas are centrally oriented to these views, complemented by an original wood-burning fireplace clad in fieldstone, which adds a textured and earthy element to the space. The home has undergone various updates over the years, carefully balancing modernization with the preservation of its original character. Technological enhancements include a Sonos system, Control 4 smart home technology, automated blackout shades, a drop-down projection screen, a theater-grade projector, and a 7.1 surround sound system, creating a high-quality home theater experience. The kitchen and bathrooms have been renovated with stone counters and simple white cabinetry. The master en-suite bathroom boasts heated floors and a steam shower. An outdoor terrace is accessible through large sliding glass doors, extending the living space outdoors. The property also features a tranquil Zen side garden and a second bedroom equipped with a walk-in closet and views of the garden. The side yard's Zen garden includes local plantings and a partially covered area under a cantilevering roof. The residence's distinctive design and picturesque setting have made it a frequent location for movies and television shows. Michelle Schwartz of The Agency currently lists 3737 Oakfield Drive. #RichardNeutra #MidcenturyModern #PlatformHouse #ShermanOaks #CaliforniaArchitecture #RealEstate #ArchitecturalDesign #CantileveredHome #SmartHome

This blog post highlights a beautifully preserved 1971 modern beach house located in Morro Bay, California, now on the market for the first time at $2.35 million. Designed by architect James Maul, the residence exemplifies midcentury modern architecture with its distinctive wooden construction and expansive use of glass, designed to maximize views of the ocean. The 2,400-square-foot home offers four bedrooms and two and a half bathrooms, characterized by soaring interiors and a seamless connection to its coastal surroundings. The interior design features vaulted ceilings and floor-to-ceiling glazing throughout, creating bright and open living spaces. A prominent feature is the sunken great room, which combines cork and wood paneling with exposed ceiling beams. This space is further enhanced by built-in furniture and a unique conversation pit, arranged around a pebble-floored hearth with a steel fireplace, contributing to both its cozy and dramatic ambiance. Adjacent to the living area, just a step up, are the dining room and a kitchen equipped with a breakfast bar, a built-in bookshelf, and a study nook. Additional common areas include a game area, a family room, and a loft. Bedrooms in the house are notably spacious, featuring generous windows that continue the theme of natural light and scenic views. The bathrooms have retained their original charm, remaining largely untouched since the home's construction. The property is further distinguished by a large outdoor deck and various seating areas designed for enjoying the waterfront views, extending the living space outdoors and embracing the coastal environment. Located at 3009 Beachcomber Drive, the home offers direct access to the beach, presenting a unique opportunity to own a piece of well-preserved midcentury modern design in a coveted California coastal setting. This property serves as a testament to the enduring appeal of midcentury architecture, showcasing how thoughtful design can integrate with natural landscapes. The emphasis on natural materials like wood and cork, combined with the extensive use of glass, reflects the architectural trends of its era. The inclusion of a conversation pit and built-in elements speaks to a design philosophy focused on comfort, functionality, and social interaction within the home. The untouched nature of certain elements, particularly the bathrooms, offers a glimpse into the original aesthetic, appealing to those who appreciate authentic period details. The overall presentation underscores the home's value as both a historical artifact and a functional living space, ideally suited for its scenic location. #MidcenturyModern #BeachHouse #MorroBay #CaliforniaRealEstate #ArchitecturalDesign #CoastalLiving #HomesForSale #HistoricHome

This article details a three-story townhouse located at 434 55th Street in the newly designated Sunset Park South Historic District. Built in 1896 by architect Thomas W. Edwards for the Hamilton Brothers, this property stands out due to its well-preserved original details, a rarity for houses in the area coming to market. The exterior of the townhouse exhibits a blend of Neo-Grec and Renaissance Revival architectural styles, as outlined in the district's designation report. Key exterior features include a brownstone stoop and base, a tan brick facade, a door accented by a green striped awning, a three-sided bay window, bands of rough-faced brownstone, incised panels, and a prominent bracketed galvanized iron cornice. The interior of the house retains much of its original character, boasting parquet flooring with intricate inlaid borders, stamped tin ceilings, original woodwork, and functional pocket doors. A particularly notable feature is the presence of five decorative wood mantels, each with unique tile surrounds. Some of these mantels, such as the one in the front parlor, have been painted, while others, like the one in the former rear parlor, showcase the original unpainted wood, highlighting detailed patterned crown molding around the door and window trim. The article notes the current configuration of the house as a floor-through apartment above a garden-and-parlor-level duplex, suggesting its original design as a two-family residence. Traditionally, the garden floor would have housed the dining room and kitchen, with the double parlor, two bedrooms, and a bathroom on the parlor floor. While some virtually staged renderings depict the former parlors as bedrooms, the article points out built-ins in the middle room, although without close-up views. The garden level's dining room features inlaid bordered parquet and square-patterned tin ceilings, though the mantel in this area appears to be a later addition, and the original wainscoting has been replaced. The kitchen on the garden level is described as being in good condition, equipped with wood cabinets, stone countertops, white appliances, and a tin ceiling, with flooring that appears to be vinyl or tile. A sunroom with access to the backyard is located off the kitchen. The upstairs apartment similarly maintains attractive woodwork and mantels, and its kitchen is also in serviceable condition, albeit not updated to modern trends. The house includes three full bathrooms, one on each floor. The parlor-floor bathroom is equipped with an original clawfoot tub, and it is suggested that the third-floor bathroom might also feature one. A laundry room is conveniently situated on the garden floor. The property has been under the ownership of the same family since 1973 and is currently listed by Joseph W. Corda of Halstead for an asking price of $1.555 million. The article invites readers to consider if the asking price is attainable given the property's unique characteristics and location within a historic district. #SunsetPark #HistoricDistrict #Townhouse #BrooklynRealEstate #OriginalDetails #Mantels #ClawfootTub #ArchitecturalStyle

This blog post highlights a renovated 1970s ranch house in Sonoma, California, demonstrating how to update a property while preserving its original architectural character. The homeowner, Kurt Neubert, chose to refresh the existing structure rather than undertaking a complete remodel, resulting in a transformed yet authentic ranch house. The 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home is currently listed for $2.25 million, showcasing a blend of subtle design elements and carefully curated materials. The exterior of the house features an earthy, olive green color that covers the moldings, window trims, and main facade, with a white accent along the roofline. This color choice helps the home integrate seamlessly with the surrounding landscape, characterized by salt-and-pepper rocks and mature olive trees. The front door serves as a focal point, painted in a contrasting black with a large window and sidelight panels, complemented by black half-cylinder sconces and modern house numbers. The front yard employs a minimalist, low-water landscape design, incorporating pebbles, aloe vera, and succulents, with symmetrical limestone squares adding visual interest. The mature olive trees in the front yard also provide natural privacy. Inside, the home continues the theme of simplicity and expert material curation. The flooring includes French oak in the bedrooms, Italian porcelain tile in the kitchen, and Jerusalem tile in the bathrooms. The kitchen boasts quartz blend countertops, offering an attractive and more affordable alternative to solid quartz. The original kitchen cabinets were retained and refreshed with a new coat of paint, complemented by low-cost handles. A Brazilian granite face modernizes the fireplace, and the use of white paint from floor to ceiling creates an expansive and open feel throughout the living spaces. Neubert's approach demonstrates that mixing inexpensive and expensive elements can achieve a cohesive and sophisticated design. The interior design is further enhanced by thoughtfully selected furniture pieces upholstered in “high performance fabrics” such as Kravet Couture mohair and microfiber, which are both durable and stylish. In the backyard, the pool has been resurfaced with an aggregate material containing teal quartz and is surrounded by glass tiles that reflect light at night, creating a shimmering effect. The pool's color is intended to evoke the Aegean Sea. This renovation project serves as an example of how a dated ranch house can be revitalized through strategic updates to finishes and careful attention to design details, maintaining its original charm while incorporating modern sensibilities and sustainable practices. The property is listed by Daniel Casabonne of Sotheby’s International Real Estate. #ranchHouseMakeover #SonomaRanchHouseRefresh #homeRenovation #interiorDesign #exteriorDesign #sustainableLandscape #realEstate #SonomaHome #mediterraneanInfluence

This article details a Neo-Grec brownstone located at 213 St. Johns Place in the Park Slope Historic District of Brooklyn, currently listed for $3.25 million. Constructed between 1880 and 1881 by William Gubbins, who is credited as both architect and builder for this specific property, the house stands as part of a stretch of brownstones. The three-story residence features a full-height angled bay with incised ornament on the lintels and a bracketed cornice, reflecting its late 19th-century Neo-Grec architectural style. The single-family house has remained under the same ownership since the late 1960s, a factor that has contributed to the preservation of many of its original details. The interior layout largely maintains its 19th-century configuration, with the kitchen and dining room situated on the garden level, formal parlors on the floor above, and five bedrooms and two full bathrooms distributed across the upper two floors. The entry area of the house showcases an unusual patchwork wood floor, wainscoting, an integrated mirror, and an ornate newel post, setting a historical tone. The double parlor is designed as a bibliophile's space, featuring extensive bookshelves that frame an ornately carved wood mantel with a mirrored overmantel. This area includes a library ladder, original hearth tiles, and an inlaid border on the wood floor, highlighting the craftsmanship of the period. Pocket doors with their original ornate surrounds lead to a rear parlor, which contains built-ins within a niche and a wood "rug" with an inlaid border, further emphasizing the historical aesthetic. On the garden level, the dining room at the front of the house is equipped with a green-slate mantel, complete with its original insert, a ceiling medallion, and paisley wallpaper, maintaining a Victorian ambiance. Adjacent to the dining room is the kitchen, which presents a 1960s-era aesthetic, characterized by exposed brick, a wood-burning fireplace, minimalist white cabinets, and retro appliances. The property boasts a total of eight fireplaces, with at least one mantel appearing in a street-facing bedroom that also features a niche under a plaster arch and parquet flooring. One of the bathrooms shown includes a mix of design elements from various eras, such as bead board wainscoting, white fixtures, and wallpaper. The rear garden is described as lush, offering outdoor space. The property is listed by Alexandra Como Saghir and Tyson Lewis of Compass. This detailed examination of 213 St. Johns Place highlights its historical significance, preserved architectural features, and the blend of original and period-specific updates, providing a comprehensive overview for potential buyers or those interested in historic Park Slope residences. #ParkSlope #Brownstone #NeoGrecArchitecture #HistoricHome #BrooklynRealEstate #Woodwork #Mantels #BuiltIns

Actor and producer Matt Damon is selling his expansive Pacific Palisades estate for $21 million. Located on a .68-acre lot, this property is one of the largest homesites in the desirable Los Angeles neighborhood, spanning over 13,000 square feet. The residence, originally constructed in 2004 by architect Grant Kirkpatrick of KAA Design, is characterized by its Zen-inspired aesthetic, achieved through a harmonious blend of materials like warm woods and natural stones, and surrounded by lush landscaping. The home's design emphasizes an open-plan layout across its 13,508 square feet, ensuring a seamless flow between spaces while highlighting the intricate details throughout. Upon entering, guests are greeted by a central, light-filled atrium featuring impressive 35-foot mahogany ceilings, which serves as a key architectural feature. Adjacent to this area are the main living spaces, including a spacious great room and dining area, both illuminated by clerestory windows and extensive glass walls. The kitchen is well-appointed with high-end appliances from Viking, Wolf, and Miele, complemented by custom cabinetry and bluestone countertops. The formal dining area incorporates sliding glass doors that open to a back patio, fostering an immediate indoor/outdoor connection and allowing for fresh air and cool breezes to circulate. A dedicated game room is another highlight, featuring glass walls, a custom mahogany pool table, and a fully equipped wet bar, with hardwood floors and wooden ceilings contrasting effectively with white walls. In total, the estate comprises seven bedrooms and ten bathrooms. The primary suite offers an exclusive retreat with a private terrace, a massage room, and a spa-like bathroom. Additional amenities within the home include an office, a fitness center, and a wine cellar. The exterior of the property is equally impressive, boasting a sprawling backyard designed for relaxation and entertainment. This outdoor oasis features a large pool, a spa, a serene koi pond, and a cascading waterfall. The primary suite is further enhanced by expansive sliding glass doors providing access to its private terrace, and includes dual dressing rooms outfitted with custom cabinetry, vaulted wooden ceilings, and a central storage island. The en suite bathroom continues the design theme with clerestory windows and an oversized spa-like tub. One of the additional bedrooms also benefits from large glass doors that offer direct access to the backyard. The meticulously landscaped backyard ensures privacy and includes a spacious, open-air cabana, ideal for gatherings and al fresco dining. The property is currently listed by Eric Haskell of The Agency. #MattDamon #PacificPalisades #LuxuryRealEstate #KaaDesign #ZenInspiredHome #CelebrityHomes #LosAngelesRealEstate #ArchitecturalDesign #HomeForSale

This article highlights a Queen Anne style brownstone at 429 Hancock Street in Bed-Stuy, Brooklyn, which is currently on the market for $1.999 million. The property showcases intricate original wood detailing throughout, a feature often associated with older, well-maintained brownstones that is rarely found in newer constructions. These details include carved elements around doorways, mantelpieces, staircases, and built-in shelving, blending historic charm with modern updates. The brownstone is configured as a two-family home, though it is currently utilized as a three-family residence. The owner's duplex occupies the parlor and garden floors, which also includes a finished basement. The upper two floors, specifically the third and fourth, are each set up as separate one-and-a-half bedroom, one-bathroom floor-through apartments. This multi-unit setup provides flexibility for potential owners, allowing for rental income or a spacious family residence. Key architectural and decorative features of the interior are emphasized. The kitchen, despite being largely modernized, retains a striking carved cabinetry piece that incorporates shelving and mirrors, preserving a connection to the home's historic roots. The living room features a grand carved entryway, functional sliding pocket doors, and an elaborate mantelpiece above a tiled fireplace, contributing significantly to the property's character. Throughout the home, additional period details are evident. These include seven decorative mantles, wainscoting, fretwork, double crown moldings, exposed brick walls, more pocket doors, and window shutters, all of which enhance the vintage aesthetic. On the garden level, a large bedroom and an office space are present, alongside a washer/dryer unit. The master bedroom, also on this level, connects to an attached bathroom and features a tiled fireplace framed by intricate carved wood, set against an exposed brick wall. The property also boasts an inviting outdoor space. Accessible from the master bedroom, the backyard is designed as an urban oasis, featuring a slate stone patio, a lawn area, and terraced garden beds. This well-landscaped outdoor area offers a private retreat within the bustling Brooklyn neighborhood. The listing for the property is managed by Ban Leow, Kunsang Mipam Thurman, and Dave Lewin for Halstead. #BedStuy #BrooklynBrownstone #HistoricHome #WoodDetailing #QueenAnneStyle #RomanesqueRevival #RealEstate #NYCArchitecture #HomeForSale

Architect Horace Gifford, renowned for his modernist designs, transformed New York's Fire Island starting in the 1960s, creating 63 homes. Among these is a notable 1967 residence located at 46 Schooner Walk, currently listed for $3.75 million by Jamie Winkler of Winkler Real Estate Inc. This five-bedroom beach house is situated on a coveted beachfront lot in the village of Ocean Beach, within the Summer Club community, offering unobstructed views where sand extends to the edges of its timber-slatted deck. The home exemplifies Gifford's signature style, characterized by natural cedar cladding on both its exterior and interior. It features floor-to-ceiling arched windows that provide extensive views of the beach and ocean. The design also incorporates subtle sculptural curves that complement the otherwise rectilinear structure. Entry to the residence is marked by a waist-high gate flanked by two curvy wooden storage units. The front door, positioned perpendicular to a gently sloping staircase, opens directly into the main living area. The main living space is defined by a dramatic barrel-vaulted ceiling and a long wall of sliding glass doors topped with curved clerestory windows. Gifford ingeniously extended these four barrel vaults to the exterior, forming a cedar canopy that partially shades the wraparound deck. The open-plan kitchen, which is part of this expansive area, also benefits from the impressive floor-to-ceiling windows, offering picturesque views. However, the kitchen maintains a cozier atmosphere with a lower, flat ceiling, which accentuates the spaciousness of the adjacent living and dining areas. The kitchen is outfitted with granite countertops, wooden cabinetry, and a mirrored backsplash. The principal bedroom is strategically located beyond the main living area, also featuring a wall of glass that overlooks the beach and matching clerestory windows, ensuring it shares the bright, open aesthetic of the common spaces. On the opposite side of the house, four additional bedrooms are connected to a landscaped yard. This yard includes a boardwalk leading to an outdoor seating area, and further back, a fence-enclosed outdoor shower and dressing area, enhancing the beach-living experience. Horace Gifford, originally from coastal Florida, began his architectural career in New York after earning his degree from the University of Florida. He later pursued a master's degree under Louis Kahn at the University of Pennsylvania but returned to his New York firm before completing his studies. His significant influence on Fire Island's architecture is well-documented in Christopher Rawlins's 2013 book, 'Fire Island Modernist: Horace Gifford and the Architecture of Seduction,' which highlights how his beach houses transformed the island's landscape and culture. Gifford passed away in 1992 at the age of 59 due to complications from AIDS, but his modernist designs continue to be celebrated for their timeless appeal and warm, inviting character. #ModernistArchitecture #BeachHouse #FireIsland #HoraceGifford #CedarDesign #BarrelVaultedCeiling #OceanfrontProperty #RealEstate #ArchitecturalHistory

The article highlights a Palm Beach residence designed remotely by Vancouver B.C.-based interior designer Gillian Segal. Despite travel restrictions during the pandemic, Segal successfully transformed a spec house into a modern home characterized by a bold, glamorous, and eclectic aesthetic, all without physically visiting the site. The living space features a distinctive Ultrafragola mirror, designed by Ettore Sottsass in 1970, which emits a neon pink glow when illuminated, complementing a rosy pink sofa by Moving Mountains. The room's dark, moody walls and ceiling create a dramatic backdrop, allowing the unique furnishings to stand out prominently. The office area presents a sophisticated and tranquil atmosphere, achieved through a monochromatic green palette and vintage furniture. This design choice contributes to a calm yet stylish workspace within the residence. In contrast to being plain, the modern kitchen is warmed by earthy tones that complement its white cabinets and surfaces. Notable elements include a swagged, glass-linked light fixture by Trueing Studio above the island, kitchen hardware from Sun Valley Bronze, and Thomas Hayes barstools. This color scheme extends to the dining area, which features a custom marble dining table, a vintage rattan light fixture, and Kelly Wearstler chairs upholstered in a Pierre Frey stripe fabric. The family room offers a whimsical and bold feel, furnished with a pair of Utretch chairs in patterned Kelly Wearstler fabric, Bzippy side tables, and a collection of vintage Charlotte Perriand sconces. This combination creates an inviting and playfully designed communal space. The children's rooms are thoughtfully designed to be comfortable and playful, tailored to reflect each child's individual personality. This ensures that their personal spaces are both functional and reflective of their unique characters. The residence showcases a comprehensive approach to interior design, where each room contributes to an overall theme of bold eclecticism and modern glamour. The project demonstrates how innovative design can overcome geographical challenges, resulting in a cohesive and personalized living environment. #InteriorDesign #PalmBeachResidence #GillianSegal #ModernHome #EclecticDecor #GlamorousDesign #RemoteDesign #BoldInteriors #HomeFurnishings

This article details the design and construction of a 12,000-square-foot, six-bedroom mansion in Palm Beach County, Florida, characterized by its extensive use of rare and vibrant marble. The homeowners, a couple with two young children, collaborated with architect Daniel Kahan of Smith and Moore, and interior designer Andrew Howard, on this ambitious project. The design draws inspiration from Art Deco and midcentury modernism, featuring a neutral palette intended to highlight the couple's contemporary art collection, all within a neoclassical architectural framework. The project began with the clients' strong preference for stone, sending numerous images of marble, travertine, and granite slabs from Italy, Turkey, and other locations. This led to hundreds of slabs being reserved even before the comprehensive design schemes were finalized. A significant acquisition was a 13-ton block of Breccia Capraia marble from Pietrasanta, Italy, which underscored the design team's realization that every detail in the house would be unique and high-end. The homeowners, a commercial real estate investor and a competitive equestrian, expressed a desire for a home that felt established and traditional in its bones but fluid and modern inside. This vision translated into integrating blue-chip French and Italian Art Deco and midcentury modern design icons, such as Paolo Buffa, Jean-Michel Frank, and René Lalique, into the decor. The use of marble is pervasive throughout the residence. For instance, the butler's pantry showcases riotously veined slabs of purple-and-green Calacatta Borghese marble on emerald-lacquered cabinets and as tall backsplashes. The primary bathroom features solid Calacatta Gold wainscoting, while the spa walls are covered in silver travertine. The kitchen island is entirely composed of Calacatta Caldia Supreme. A powder room includes a vanity crafted from brass-inlaid, lilac-veined Turkish marble, with a carved sink, resembling an ancient Roman altarpiece. A notable highlight is the lounge and games room, where a monumental bar, custom-carved in Italy from the large block of Breccia Capraia Verde marble, serves as a focal point. This room also features classic parquet flooring, high coffered ceilings with warm-walnut beams, and matching wood paneling on the walls. Contemporary elements such as a graphically patterned hair-on-hide Kyle Bunting rug and a burgundy-lacquered Francesco Balzano console table are incorporated to balance the traditional features. The windows are adorned with floor-to-ceiling curtains made from an overlapping patchwork of five jewel-toned fabrics. The games room also includes a custom 1,700-pound marble Ping-Pong table by Moniomi, featuring sleek geometry, black-and-white-striped edging, and a multicolored inlaid-marble surface, blending fun with luxury. The foyer makes a grand statement with a seven-tier Murano-glass and brass chandelier from the 1970s, hanging from an oval skylight. This is complemented by 10 Murano sconces and a graphic Charles Arnoldi painting above a 1940s French Art Deco sideboard, set against gray-and-white marble checkerboard floors. The living and dining area is equally opulent, featuring a mantel carved from a single block of marble, 1950s armchairs by Gio Ponti, and custom sofas upholstered in Scottish cashmere. An Art Deco–inspired coffee table with horn-marquetry legs and a bleached-parchment top, along with console tables clad in translucent selenite and cabinet doors with gypsum shards in a sunburst motif, add to the luxurious aesthetic. In the primary bedroom, a mirror framed in 23-karat gold appears to float beneath dentil crown molding, and the wife’s dressing room boasts a vintage Murano chandelier and a ceiling panel hand-embroidered by artist Sophie Coryndon, finished in gold. Despite the luxurious materials, the designers ensured the home remained livable for a family with young children. Andrew Howard incorporated durable indoor-outdoor performance fabrics and finishes in kid-friendly spaces like the kitchen, family room, and children’s bedrooms, maintaining the sophisticated aesthetic while enhancing practicality. The family expressed satisfaction with the outcome, emphasizing that the investment in quality and thoughtful design has created a cherished home for their children to grow up in. #PalmBeachMansion #LuxuryHomeDesign #MarbleInteriors #ArtDecoStyle #MidcenturyModern #InteriorDesign #AndrewHoward #SmithAndMooreArchitects #FloridaRealEstate

This blog post highlights a unique early 20th-century two-family residence located at 6322 5th Avenue in Sunset Park, Brooklyn, currently on the market for $1.488 million. Situated on a commercial stretch within sight of the Gowanus Expressway, the property is part of a row of two-story brick buildings constructed between 1916 and 1918. Historical records reveal a colorful past for the building, with its ground-floor commercial space serving various businesses over the decades. Early historic tax photos from around 1939 show the building as a grocery store, among other small businesses like a plumbing supply company and a furrier on the block. The property also had a connection to Marcel de Passy, a notorious confidence man known by multiple aliases. De Passy, who had a criminal record for bigamy, embezzlement, and swindling, briefly rented in the house in 1931 after his release from Sing Sing. During his short residency, he remarried and attempted to promote a new scheme involving a speedy ocean liner to the Brooklyn Daily Eagle, despite the paper noting his extensive criminal history. His stay at 6322 5th Avenue lasted approximately one year, consistent with his frequent moves. In the 1950s, the commercial space transitioned into a branch of the Taffy ‘N Terry Dance Studio, founded by acrobatic dancers Walter and Barbara Wendelken, sometimes performing as the 'Flying Wendelkens.' The studio offered dance classes for children and adults from at least 1954 until 1959 before relocating. Despite the numerous occupants and uses, the building retains significant vintage architectural details. The first-floor unit, which previously housed the dance studio, features an intact tin ceiling in the street-facing space. It includes a full bath and a kitchen at the rear, with the bathroom showcasing earlier period features such as a pedestal tub and a wall-mounted sink. The kitchen, while lacking modern amenities, is spacious and provides access to a small rear yard. The larger upstairs unit offers a flexible layout comprising three bedrooms with closets and a potential fourth bedroom with French doors opening into the living room, suitable for use as a dining room or study. All flooring in the upstairs unit appears to be vintage marbled linoleum. While some photographs reveal cracks in the plaster walls, indicating potential need for mechanical upgrades, the overall vintage aesthetic is well-preserved. A notable highlight for enthusiasts of vintage design is the circa 1930s kitchen, boasting green wood cabinets with original hardware, curved shelves, and scalloped trim. The kitchen walls feature bright yellow tiles in pristine condition, accented with black triangular and border tiles. Vintage appliances, including a stove and a refrigerator, are still present. The upstairs bathroom provides a striking contrast to the downstairs' sanitary style, with burgundy wall tiles, thin accent wave border tiles, and pink fixtures and accessories. A medicine cabinet with original lighting further enhances its period charm. Burgundy tiles and fixtures were popular from the 1920s to the 1950s, with the sink and toilet closely resembling those shown in a 1950 American Standard catalog. The cellar offers usable space for storage or a workshop, and an aerial view shows a small rear yard with landscaping potential. The property has remained within the same family since at least 1950, with census records indicating their tenancy from 1940. The property is listed by Ali Tom of Bellmarc. #SunsetPark #BrooklynRealEstate #VintageHome #TwoFamilyHouse #HistoricProperty #ArchitecturalDetails #MidCenturyDesign #HomeRenovation #NewYorkHistory

The Hancock Park residence of Dean Tavoularis, an Academy Award-winning production designer known for his work on films such as the 'Godfather' trilogy, 'Bonnie and Clyde,' 'Zabriskie Point,' and 'Apocalypse Now,' is now available for purchase. This 1933 Spanish Colonial Revival home, listed at $2.199 million, is being offered for the first time in five decades. The property showcases an abundance of visually striking details, reflecting Tavoularis's professional background. Upon entering the property through its gate, visitors encounter a courtyard featuring a sumptuously tiled fountain and an arched arcade, leading to a porte-cochere. A coffered wood door opens into a formal entry area distinguished by painted tile and wrought-iron grilles. The formal dining room, situated to the right of the entry, boasts intricately detailed moldings and a stained glass picture window. To the left, the living room is adorned with carved plaster beams and a tiled fireplace, complete with a carved wood mantelpiece. The kitchen seamlessly blends period tile and cabinetry with modern appliances and includes a breakfast nook featuring a semi-circular built-in banquette. The 3,500-square-foot residence comprises five bedrooms and five bathrooms. A notable bathroom is rendered in a seafoam green hue, equipped with matching built-in dressers, a tiled pedestal sink, and a wall phone, which appears to be an addition from the 1980s. The master suite features coved ceilings, curved built-in shelving, and an adjoining sitting room with a marble fireplace. These design elements collectively contribute to the home's distinctive aesthetic, which aligns with Tavoularis's expertise in creating compelling visual environments. The property is listed by Scott Lander and Matt Berkley of Deasy Penner Podley. #HancockPark #LosAngelesRealEstate #SpanishColonialRevival #LuxuryHomes #DeanTavoularis #ProductionDesignerHome #HistoricHomes #ArchitecturalDetails

This blog post showcases a penthouse apartment located in the Lexus condominium building in Dumbo, Brooklyn, highlighting its features, design, and amenities. The penthouse, identified as Apartment 12A at 84 Front Street, is listed for $3.695 million by Douglas Elliman. It spans 2,191 square feet and includes three bedrooms, with the potential for a fourth, and 2.5 bathrooms. The property is characterized by an opulent open-plan living area, a private roof deck, and expansive views of the New York City skyline. The main living space integrates the living, dining, and kitchen areas. A notable feature in this area is a six-foot-long Montego double-sided gas fireplace, providing both warmth and a visual focal point. The apartment also boasts two balconies, offering additional outdoor access and views. A floating staircase with an illuminated handrail leads directly to the private roof deck, designed to enhance the flow between indoor and outdoor living spaces. The kitchen is equipped with high-end appliances and finishes, including a 13-foot-long island crafted from Calacatta marble. It features a Thermador refrigerator and dishwasher, a marble backsplash, and under-counter lighting. A bronze chandelier suspended above the island adds to the kitchen's sophisticated aesthetic. Throughout the bedrooms, amenities such as California closets, Holly Hunt sconces, and recessed lighting are installed. A Lutron smart lighting system and remote heating and cooling thermostats provide modern convenience and climate control. Solar shades are fitted across the home for light regulation and privacy. All bathrooms in the penthouse are equipped with towel heaters, enhancing comfort. The master bathroom specifically features a steam shower and its own private balcony, adding a luxurious touch to the primary suite. The private roof garden is a significant highlight of the property. Designed by Chelsea Garden Center, it features teak fencing and enclosures, timed lighting for the trees, and an automated irrigation system. A charcoal BBQ is also included, making the roof deck suitable for outdoor entertaining. This outdoor space is described as a peaceful retreat that also offers impressive city views. Additional practical features of the penthouse include an in-unit laundry room, complete with a washer and dryer, and ample closet space throughout the residence. The Lexus condominium building provides a range of amenities for its residents. These include doorman service, video security for enhanced safety, a newly updated gym, and a furnished common sun terrace. The building's location in Dumbo, a vibrant artistic neighborhood in Brooklyn, places residents within walking distance of various attractions. These include shops, landmarks such as the Brooklyn and Manhattan bridges, Brooklyn Bridge Park, and several renowned pizzerias, contributing to the desirability of the property and its surroundings. #Dumbo #Penthouse #LuxuryRealEstate #Brooklyn #LexusCondominium #SkylineViews #PrivateRoofDeck #OpenPlanDesign #DouglasElliman

Kris Jenner, known for her vast Hidden Hills mansion, also owns a lavish $12 million holiday home in Palm Springs, California, which has been featured on 'Keeping Up with the Kardashians' and her Instagram. Located in the exclusive Madison Club, the property spans 11,000 square feet and includes seven bedrooms. Upon visiting the home for the first time, Khloe Kardashian described it as "spectacular" and "breathtaking." The exterior of the holiday residence features a statement concrete design, and a photo shared by Jenner for Khloe Kardashian's daughter's birthday revealed suspended beds on the porch. The home offers sweeping views of the surrounding landscape, particularly from its expansive pool area. Inside, the property boasts a luxurious open-plan living room and kitchen designed for entertaining. This area features high ceilings and floor-to-ceiling glass doors that open to the outside. The living space is furnished with two seating areas, including cream leather corner sofas and chic marble coffee tables adorned with books. The kitchen is modern white and fitted with two large fridge-freezers, a long dining table, and an additional breakfast bar. The entire interior maintains a sophisticated neutral color palette, contributing to an ultra-stylish ambiance. The home includes three master suites among its seven bedrooms, all adhering to the neutral color scheme and featuring glass doors that lead to the exterior. These suites offer cozy double beds, creating an ideal retreat for family members. The outdoor area is designed for relaxation and entertainment in the California desert, featuring a large covered dining table, a separate bar area, a spacious swimming pool, and loungers that provide scenic views. The property serves as a perfect gathering place for Kris Jenner and her children, Kourtney, Kim, Khloe, Rob, Kendall, and Kylie, especially during events like Coachella. #KrisJenner #PalmSprings #HolidayHome #CelebrityHomes #LuxuryRealEstate #InteriorDesign #KardashianJenner #CaliforniaLiving #HomeDecor

The former residence of the late Japanese fashion designer Kenzo Takada, known as The Kenzo House, is currently on the market through Christie's Real Estate. Located in the Bastille area of Paris, the four-story home was originally constructed by Takada in 1993 within the courtyard of an 18th-century Parisian building. Takada, who founded his eponymous label in Paris, sought to create a living space that harmoniously blended Eastern and Western design aesthetics, reflecting his own cultural background and artistic vision. The initial design of the house, which took seven years to complete, aimed to incorporate elements reminiscent of Japan, providing a tranquil contrast to the vibrant Parisian atmosphere that inspired his fashion work. The property underwent a significant redesign in 2018 by acclaimed Japanese architect Kengo Kuma. Kuma's architectural philosophy, focused on a “frame of nature,” guided the renovation, emphasizing the integration of natural materials and light to foster a deeper connection with the environment. Kuma's redesign utilized organic Japanese building materials such as ceramic, stone, bamboo, and various types of wood, aligning with his belief that these materials enhance the experience of nature within architectural spaces. He championed transparency as a characteristic of Japanese architecture, employing light and natural elements to achieve a distinctive form of visual and atmospheric clarity within the home. The Kenzo House features an expansive layout including four bedrooms, six bathrooms, a music room, a fitness room, a study, an elevator, and staff studio apartments. A central aspect of the property's appeal lies in its meticulously designed outdoor spaces. The garden includes a stone pond inhabited by nishiki carp, and extensive landscape gardens featuring cherry trees, maple trees, bamboos, moss, rocks, and waterfalls, all crafted to evoke the serene beauty of a traditional Japanese landscape. A key element of Kuma's redesign involved reorienting each bedroom to face the garden, visually and materially framing the house with nature. The property also boasts a Japanese pavilion with a traditional tea-ceremony room, complete with tatami mats and shoji sliding doors, opening directly onto the koi pond. Further incorporating Japanese design, a terrace with an outdoor lap swimming pool was converted into an engawa, a traditional Japanese exterior corridor made of wooden latticing, providing a covered outdoor dining and entertaining area with lush green foliage. An elegant stone bathtub offers panoramic views of the Parisian rooftops, contributing to the sense of luxury, peace, and pleasure envisioned in the home's design. #KenzoTakada #ParisRealEstate #JapaneseArchitecture #KengoKuma #LuxuryHomes #HomeDesign #EasternWesternFusion #ArchitecturalRenovation #GardenDesign

A well-preserved Neo-Grec brownstone, located at 427a 8th Street in the Park Slope Historic District, is currently listed for $2.45 million. This circa 1884 townhouse, part of a block designed by Jefferson F. Wood, is 17 feet wide and configured as a one-family home over three stories, although it is legally a two-family residence. The exterior of the brownstone showcases typical Neo-Grec architectural elements, including incised door and window surrounds, a bracketed wooden cornice, and original cast ironwork, featuring substantial railings and newel posts. The property also boasts modern amenities such as a hot tub in the flagstone-covered backyard and energy-efficient windows, which were installed prior to the 2012 extension of the landmark district. Inside, the residence retains a wealth of original details that contribute to its historic character. Notable features include five incised white marble mantels, a grand wood staircase with carved newel posts and a curving railing, extensive original hardwood floors, and intricate plasterwork, such as crown molding and medallions. The house also features period-appropriate elements like pocket doors and a stained-glass skylight. The double parlors and the garden-floor dining room are largely intact, preserving their original charm. The rear parlor is enhanced by a fireplace flanked by built-in bookcases and cupboards, adding both functionality and aesthetic appeal. The kitchen, situated in its traditional location at the rear of the garden level, maintains wood floors and a tin ceiling. It has been updated with modern conveniences, including a large stainless steel stove and contemporary cabinets lining two walls. The upper floor of the brownstone accommodates three bedrooms and a versatile office-slash-laundry room. The front master bedroom has been reconfigured into two smaller bedrooms and a walk-in closet, utilizing colorful modern shelving as a divider. While these shelves offer an attractive modern touch, a prospective buyer might consider reverting the space to its original master bedroom layout and converting the office/laundry room back into a small third bedroom or storage area. Functionality is further enhanced by two updated bathrooms, one on the parlor floor and another on the bedroom floor. These spacious bathrooms feature bathtubs and classic decor. One bathroom is designed with vintage-style black and white tile floors, while the other incorporates gray and white tiles, a marble-topped vanity, built-in cabinets, and a skylight, providing ample natural light. The property appears to be in move-in condition based on available photographs. Mechanical systems have also been updated, with a new gas furnace, electrical wiring, and plumbing, according to the listing. Public records indicate that the property has been under the ownership of the same family since at least 1977. The listing is managed by Aran Scott, Anthony Robles, and James Vallejos of Douglas Elliman. #ParkSlope #Brownstone #NeoGrecArchitecture #HistoricDistrict #RealEstateBrooklyn #LuxuryHome #HomeDetails #RenovatedHome