Home DecorReal Estate News January 7, 2024

4 Living Rooms Perfect For Hosting An Award-Winning Viewing Party

Honey Deylami – Dubai Sotheby’s International Realty

The start of a new year is usually associated with the beginning of new adventures. But in the media and entertainment business, a new year marks an opportunity to reflect on recent triumphs. The entertainment of the past 12 months has been parsed and praised, and the only thing left to do is definitively decide which are worthy of the industry’s biggest awards.

The awards season is a milestone on many social calendars, where friends and family come together in living rooms to root for their favorite contenders—and the quality of the event has everything to do with the spaces in which they take place.

So what constitutes an award-winning living room in which to host an award-winning viewing party? These four properties know how to roll out a red carpet.

A Marina-Side Matinee in California

Sean Stanfield and Ryan Tarr – Pacific Sotheby’s International Realty

With a unique parcel size spanning 3.5 lots in the otherwise compact community of Lido Isle, an award-season party in this impressive property is unforgettable. With west-facing floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the yachts of Newport Harbor, its living room makes the most of the afternoon sunlight and the remarkable sunsets. Immediate access to the covered terrace allows guests to gaze at the stars, whether they’re in front of the television or out by the water.

In fact, the entire residence has been fashioned to unify a series of visually compelling yet individual spaces. This includes a dedicated media viewing space on the second floor, complete with a cozy fireplace for more intimate ambiance.

An Outdoor VIP Screening in Dubai

Honey Deylami – Dubai Sotheby’s International Realty

There’s no better place to watch the Golden Globes than in one of the world’s ritziest, glitziest destinations—Dubai’s iconic Palm Jumeirah. A viewing party at this panoramic glass villa spans the interior and exterior of the home, where the double-height living and dining room extend effortlessly to a fully furnished patio with a retractable poolside screen.

Of course, for those who prefer to do a deep dive on the nominees rather than mix and mingle, the private cinema room down on the basement level is state of the art.

A Chic Soirée in the Center of Paris

Guillaume Lepine – Paris Ouest Sotheby’s International Realty

The proverbial red carpet takes on a tangible form in this colorful apartment. With its lavish architectural flourishes and fixtures—accentuated by an eclectic combination of both antique and contemporary furniture—an awards party in its deluxe living room delivers the right combination of high culture and high drama.

Every room here has themed palettes that create a distinct environment; from the glamorous gold-toned foyer where guests would enter, to the opulent onyx kitchen where they can sip cocktails and debate which actor should have gotten which Oscar. And being located in the 16th arrondissement of Paris, this all happens against a postcard-perfect backdrop of the Eiffel Tower.

A Night at the Cinema in Barcelona

Barcelona & Costa Brava Sotheby’s International Realty

Bringing friends and family to a viewing party at this majestic mansion in Barcelona feels like welcoming them to an invite-only screening at the world’s most luxurious movie theater. They would walk into the home to find an open concept living and dining room with coffered ceilings towering nearly 23 feet overhead, and a sprawling garden and pool just beyond the doors.

But the real showstopper is the plushly-appointed home cinema with soundproof walls and its very own movie projector. The nearby bar and billiards table only add to the convivial atmosphere of the viewing party.

Living rooms have always served as a focal point for people to gather together, and awards season is the prime time to throw a viewing party that’s as dazzling and festive as the galas on the screen.

 
This article originally appeared at https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/4-living-rooms-perfect-for-hosting-an-award-winning-viewing-party

Home DecorReal Estate News January 6, 2024

A Recipe For Style: 4 Homes With Fabulous Kitchens

Whether in the heart of Manhattan or in the historic district of Santa Fe, these impeccable kitchens offer an impressive blend of functionality, comfort, and style.

A River Oaks Classic

Walter Bering | Martha Turner Sotheby’s International Realty

On one of the most sought-after streets in Houston, this stately 1939 residence has been painstakingly, stylishly renovated to serve as a chic setting for sophisticated living and entertaining. Each of the five bedrooms is accompanied by an en suite bath, and a versatile game room provides space for relaxation on the uppermost level. The open floor plan unites the living room, the family room, a wet bar with a wine closet, and a handsome kitchen with custom cabinetry, a sizeable island, and superior appliances.

Contemporary Elegance in Century City

Allen Roth, Lori Berris | Sotheby’s International Realty – Beverly Hills Brokerage

This chic two-bedroom residence enjoys all the amenities of Century City’s coveted Le Parc community, among them 24-hour security, manicured grounds, lush gardens, waterfalls, swimming pools, a spa, tennis courts, a gym, and a clubhouse. The home’s easy,light-filled floor plan features a spacious living room, a formal dining room, and a kitchen with Sub-Zero and Wolf appliances, streamlined cabinetry, a built-in breakfast banquette, and access to a terrace with treetop views.

Modern Refinement in Santa Fe

The Hultberg and Burgess Team | Sotheby’s International Realty – Santa Fe Brokerage

Just steps from storied Canyon Road, this refined home has been meticulously re-imagined and reconstructed with natural elements—including white oak floors—throughout. Beyond the inviting covered front terrace are a beautiful living and dining room with vaulted beamed ceilings and a fireplace, three restful bedrooms, and a kitchen featuring a marble-topped island, solid-surface countertops, high-caliber stainless-steel appliances, windows with floating shelves, and a nearby butler’s pantry. Two off-street parking spaces are a welcome amenity in this historic location.

Light-Filled NoHo Loft

Serena Boardman | Sotheby’s International Realty – East Side Manhattan Brokerage

This impressive 3,700-square-foot residence shares its luxurious building in the heart of NoHo with only eight other homes. Its centerpiece is a light-flooded great room with soaring ceilings and floor-to-ceiling cast-bronze windows. It flows directly to a chef’s kitchen with custom teak Bulthaup cabinetry, polished slate countertops, two Sub-Zero refrigerators, a Sub-Zero wine chiller, and wall ovens, an espresso machine, and a six-burner range from Miele. One of three south-facing bedrooms, the primary suite enjoys a private balcony.

 
This article originally appeared at https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/a-recipe-for-style-4-homes-with-fabulous-kitchens

Real Estate News January 4, 2024

New And Notable Homes For Sale Over $4 Million: January 2024

From a splendid villa in Tamarin, Mauritius, to a historic estate in Monte San Savino, Italy, these are this month’s five featured notable properties for sale over US $4 Million.

Monte San Savino, Italy

Italy Sotheby’s International Realty

This meticulously restored farmhouse, likely built in 1785 and expanded over the years, preserves classic Tuscan architectural features in two separate living spaces. The villa, once stables, offers spacious family-friendly living spaces on the ground floor, including a kitchen, dining room, laundry room, and a pantry with underfloor heating. Upstairs, three bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms and a studio in the ancient dovecote attic provide a comfortable living experience. The adjacent tobacco drying shed houses another apartment with a living area, kitchen, and two bedrooms. Enjoy various outdoor living areas and panoramic views of the property including olive trees and vineyards. Located in the heart of Tuscany, the home ensures privacy without isolation.

Tamarin, Mauritius

Mauritius Sotheby’s International Realty

This splendid villa is situated in the serene landscape of the Akasha development on the island’s West Coast. The five-bedroom contemporary residence offers ample living space, luxury amenities in a serene light color palette, high-ceilinged living and dining areas, study room, and fitness room. The pièce de résistance is the seamless transition from indoors to a covered terrace leading to a magnificent swimming pool and meticulously manicured garden. A grand master suite and two additional bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms complete the upper level. The home is ideally positioned close to shopping centers and a beautiful beach.

Narragansett, Rhode Island

Mott & Chace Sotheby’s International Realty

Situated on over five acres, Spindrift offers a private sanctuary with stunning ocean views seamlessly blending with the surrounding natural beauty. The dramatic rocky coastline serves as a perfect backdrop between the sea and the residence. Built for entertaining and capturing views from almost every window, the estate boasts over 7,000 square feet of artfully crafted living space, including four expansive bedrooms. Outside, balconies and decks are an invitation to experience seaside living at its finest.

San Juan, Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico Sotheby’s International Realty

This 9th-floor oceanfront residence in Laguna Plaza is in of WeCo’s exclusive Paseo Caribe community. The expansive living space is bathed in Caribbean sunshine through floor-to-ceiling glass. With endless views of Condado Beach to the East and mountains to the South, the space feels open and airy. A key-access dual elevator opens onto a private landing, ensuring total residence privacy. The modern open-air kitchen with stainless steel appliances, terraces off the dining and primary suite, and breathtaking sunrise views make this sub-penthouse unique. Laguna Plaza, a full doorman building, is one of San Juan’s premier waterfront luxury buildings, providing concierge service, an outdoor pool and spa, gym, lounge, and underground garage parking.

Butler, Tennessee

Alliance Sotheby’s International Realty

Encompassing approximately 50 scenic acres bordered by the Cherokee National Forest, Blue Mountanya offers some of Tennessee’s best long-range views spanning three states. Two beautiful luxury homes and an elegant event barn provide a unique setting for special events and overnight stays. Sapphire Ridge, a chalet/vacation rental getaway, and Emerald Point, a newly renovated luxury home, offer striking views of Watauga Lake and the Blue Ridge Mountains. The event barn features a classic red barn exterior with luxurious finishes, and Sunset Point provides a breathtaking backdrop for any event.
 
This article originally appeared at https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/new-and-notable-homes-for-sale-over-4-million-january-2024

Real Estate News January 4, 2024

Discover the Latest In Real Estate: First Week In January 2024

Discover the latest in luxury and global real estate, including stunning homes over $4 million and insights into the affluent market’s preferences.

Sothebys International Realty

New And Notable Homes For Sale Over $4 Million: January 2024Sothebys International Realty

A Recipe For Style: 4 Homes With Fabulous KitchensSothebys International Realty

4 Living Rooms Perfect For Hosting An Award-Winning Viewing PartySothebys International Realty

2024 Luxury Outlook Report Reveals Affluent Home Seekers Expanding Reaches And Sustainability Is Top Of MindSothebys International Realty

Real Estate News

A London Apartment Near Harrods Lists for Over $63M The Wall Street Journal

Two Penthouses Atop New York’s Plaza Hotel Hit the Market for a Combined $70 MillionRobb Report

$825,000 Homes in South Carolina, Oregon and PennsylvaniaThe New York Times

This $2.5M Home by Frank Lloyd Wright Jr. Is a Geometric GemDwell

A Home in the Forest of in Karuizawa, Japan, Lives Like a TreehouseMansion Global

$4.5 Million Homes in CaliforniaThe New York Times

Home DecorReal Estate News December 28, 2023

Inside Two Penthouses At The Plaza

As any traveling businessperson or seasoned globetrotter knows, Manhattan is strewn with hotels, many of them glamorous and highly esteemed. None, however, can hold a proverbial candle to the Plaza, whose silhouette alone is recognizable to esteemed executives, royalty—both heads of state and the Hollywood variety—and Eloise fans young and old. This historic landmark was designed in the early 20th century by architect Henry Janeway Hardenbergh and, following a three-year renovation begun in 2005, it remains as opulent, elegant, and illustrious as the day it welcomed its first guests. On the building’s “the tippy-top floors,” as Eloise certainly would have dubbed them, are the prized private penthouse residences, among them this veritable manor in the sky that comprises two neighboring homes—one a triplex, the other a duplex—in one awe-inspiring aerie of more than 10,000 square feet.

New York, New York | Nikki Field, Mara Flash Blum, Sara Marrache, Sotheby’s International Realty – Downtown Manhattan Brokerage

The three floors of the triplex are linked by an eye-catching central staircase along with a convenient elevator. Its generous floor plan spans some 6,316 square feet and encompasses a glamorous living room with light-flooding windows and a sophisticated marble-backed cocktail bar; a regal dining room with a wine-display and -storage wall and a striking ceiling treatment and light fixture; a streamlined and skylit chef’s kitchen; a sizeable pantry and wine cellar; a family or media room warmed by a gas fireplace; a quiet, contemplative study; and four bedrooms, including a cinematic owner’s suite with two dressing rooms and two spa-inspired baths.

At roughly 3,974 square feet, the Gatsbyesque duplex serves as an impressively spacious and luxurious guesthouse with its own elevator, dazzling mirrored walls, distinctive flooring, handsome moldings, and other Golden Age design elements. Beyond the grand foyer are the atrium-like great room and a light-filled butler’s kitchen. At the top of a bold sweeping staircase with artful wood inlays and an elaborate railing are three bedrooms and three full baths—one of which is a paragon of luxury featuring an ornate wood-burning fireplace and a majestic marble-clad bath.

The pièce de résistance, however, is the 82-foot-long terrace, which the two residences share. Framed by the oxidized copper of the Plaza’s unmistakeable mansard roof, this is the consummate perch for gazing across the emerald sweep of Central Park and the icon-studded skyline of Manhattan as they unfold northward. This is merely one of the rewards reaped by choosing a life lived at the pinnacle of one of the most preeminent and prestigious buildings in the world.

This article originally appeared at https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/inside-two-penthouses-at-the-plaza

Real Estate News December 27, 2023

Video Of The Week: An Extraordinary Modern Beach Residence In Sarasota, Florida

Featuring curated videos from the most sought-after destinations the world over, discover this week’s Video of the Week

8250 Sanderling Road is a breathtaking architectural masterpiece nestled on the pristine shores of Siesta Key, one of Florida’s most coveted barrier islands. This extraordinary modern beach residence is a testament to the artistry of world-renowned architect Guy Peterson FAIA, known for setting the standard of excellence in modern design. The home proudly boasts an Honor Award from the Florida Gulf Coast Chapter of the AIA, and an Excellence in Architecture Award from the Florida Association of the AIA, as well as being featured in numerous media outlets for its architectural significance including HGTV Homes Across America, Florida Design, Robb Report, Sarasota Magazine, Sarasota Herald Tribune’s Style Magazine. In addition, it has been highlighted in many publications including Four Florida Moderns, a book devoted to four Florida architects, and 50 US Architects Residential and Planning, a curated collection of award-winning architects and their most significant accomplishments.

In 2015, the new owners undertook a transformative renovation collaborating with Guy Peterson FAIA, Michael K Walker, and Richard Geary, resulting in a newfound clarity of design that harmonizes seamlessly with the original architectural brilliance. Elegantly composed of four rectangular pavilions, each thoughtfully supported by a concrete framework, the exterior is a true work of art. Layers of concrete, intricate cutouts and artful glass details adorn the modern façade.

As you approach, a seashell-textured concrete path welcomes you, setting the stage for the extraordinary experience that unfolds within. Step inside, and you’ll be greeted by interiors that are equally awe-inspiring. The foyer gives way to views of all levels creating the perspective of a sculpture framed by glass, concrete, metal and pure white. The custom bar, elegantly appointed with an illuminated onyx top, blends effortlessly with its surroundings. The dining room showcases concrete columns against sanded glass walls, framing a mesmerizing beach view through towering floor-to-ceiling windows. The custom kitchen pays homage to the teak accents found throughout the home, featuring top-of-the-line Miele and Wolf appliances, marble counters, and dual islands.

The owner’s suite is a private oasis, complete with a cozy sitting area, a convenient coffee bar, meticulously organized closets, and a Gulf-front terrace to enjoy a morning coffee while taking in the tranquil blue Gulf of Mexico view. The dual en-suite bathrooms exude opulence with stone counters, generous showers, and exquisite detailing. On this same level is a sitting area and enormous landscaped terrace overlooking the grounds. An office with panoramic views of the Gulf inspires productivity. Guest accommodations are equally inviting, with en-suite bedrooms allowing for the utmost privacy.

Situated within the prestigious Sanderling Club on Siesta Key, this home affords exclusive access to the Paul Rudolph-designed beach clubhouse, tennis courts, and a 24/7 guard-gated community for ultimate privacy and security. The community also has a marina with boat docks, while tranquil Heron Lagoon complements the expansive 1.54-acre site, offering over 150 feet of Gulf frontage and an additional 150+ waterfront feet along the lagoon’s edge, creating the perfect gulf-to-lagoon retreat. Siesta Key itself is a renowned destination, celebrated for its powdery white quartz sand beaches and vibrant cultural scene.

This article originally appeared at https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/video-of-the-week-an-extraordinary-modern-beach-residence-in-sarasota-florida

Home DecorReal Estate News December 26, 2023

Year In Review: Luxury Home Highlights From 2023

Joseph Barbieri – Sotheby’s International Realty Greenwich Brokerage

What constitutes a luxury home? There was no singular answer to that question in 2023, as every month produced a pageant of some of the most exemplary and visionary properties on earth.

Some are chic and innovative, featuring the latest technology and forward-thinking approaches to indoor-outdoor living. Others celebrate classical prestige, paying homage to stately nobility and long-standing traditions. There are those that are perfect for entertaining, blending elegance with extravagance, and those that are better suited to enlightening, with architecture and design that belong in a catalog of high art.

And certain luxury homes create universes entirely unto themselves—personal paradises that serve as ideal refuges and idyllic retreats, uniting the natural and cultural worlds in unique and inspired ways.

In celebration of a new year—and commemoration of another year gone by—here are five glamorous homes that epitomize each of these styles and were featured in 2023.

The Contemporary Villa

Mirce Curkoski and Albert Justo – ONE Sotheby’s International Realty

Picture the pinnacle of ultramodern living; it’s probably a home paneled with panoramic expanses of glass, surrounded by intriguing water features and vibrant living walls, with top-of-the-line amenities, accessories, and appliances effortlessly automating everyday functions.

Situated in the private community of La Gorce Island, this glittering villa meets all those criteria and more, adding a dedicated dock for a large yacht to its long list of cutting-edge conveniences.

The Historic Townhouse

James Gubbins – United Kingdom Sotheby’s International Realty

Major urban metropolises hold deep histories, long memories, and epic stories, many of which are preserved in their most esteemed residences.

Nowhere is this more readily apparent than in this fabulous townhome, which has hosted famous figures past and present—including serving as a film set for luminaries such as Kate Moss, Amy Winehouse, and Tom Hooper. With its opulent moldings, ornate wainscotting, and hand-painted wallpapers, it’s a paragon of old-world wonder, yet updated with a range of thoughtful new renovations.

The Maximalist Mansion

Joseph Barbieri – Sotheby’s International Realty Greenwich Brokerage – 2

There are properties that have it all—pools and pavilions, gardens and gazebos, fitness facilities and games rooms and guesthouses; spaces for recreation and relaxation that can enchant or enthrall almost anyone.

Envisioned in the style of a hôtel particulier, this waterfront resort is one of those residences that makes the most of having the most, with its six bedrooms, seven full baths, and two acres of land. From a wine vault fit for a master vintner to its scenic light-filled solarium, every area is bursting with exuberant character.

The Minimalist Hideaway

Arthur Goodrich and Federico Parlagreco – Sotheby’s International Realty St. Helena Brokerage

When does a work of architecture become a work of art? Perhaps when it’s a museum-quality melange of different iconic styles, all coming together to craft a stunning, habitable masterpiece that complements and contrasts its location in a compelling way.

This sculptural abode atop Mount Veeder could easily be viewed as equal parts art installation and property. Though its flawless white façades may seem simple at first glance, they combine influences from modernist and Art Deco architecture, as well as deconstructivist aesthetics. This grandeur is intensified by the local vistas of Napa Valley and terraces of Cabernet vineyards.

The Timeless Sanctuary

Peter Illovsky – Cote D’Azur Sotheby’s International Realty

This article originally appeared at https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/year-in-review-luxury-home-highlights-from-2023?mp_agent=786-a-811-4014639

Home DecorStaging December 21, 2023

Presenting Peach Fuzz, the designated Pantone® Color of the Year for 2024

Since the start of the 21st century, Pantone® has been setting the tone for each New Year with its Color of the Year announcement. More than just a color choice, it’s like a sneak peek into the upcoming twelve months, predicting the shades and influences that will shape our world. This chosen color isn’t just a visual preference; it reflects the emotions of the time, making its mark in fashion, home décor, and graphic design. For creatives like illustrators and trendsetters, it’s a spark that inspires them to infuse a bit of innovation into their work.

In 2024, Pantone has chosen PANTONE 13-1023 Peach Fuzz as the Color of the Year—a soft and nurturing peach shade designed to encourage a more measured approach to life and connections with others. The name of this romantic hue paints a picture of velvety peaches, gentle feathers, and the smooth feel of vintage fabrics, merging the delicate tones of pink and orange. PANTONE 13-1023 Peach Fuzz captures a shared desire to care for ourselves and those around us, its velvety tones embodying a spirit that enriches not just our eyes but our entire being.

Diving into the warmth of PANTONE 13-1023 Peach Fuzz means embracing more than a color; it’s about immersing yourself in a harmonious blend that goes beyond what meets the eye, becoming an integral part of daily life. This soothing palette isn’t just about looks; it’s a holistic experience, with color harmonies intended to resonate through your mind, body, and soul. In contrast, last year’s Pantone Color of the Year, Viva Magenta, brought a different kind of vibrancy. The meticulous selection process involves Pantone’s color experts analyzing trends, cultural shifts, and technological advancements, ultimately pinpointing the color that will define the year ahead.

This article originally appeared at https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/introducing-the-2024-pantone-color-of-the-year-peach-fuzz

Real Estate News December 20, 2023

Iconic Estate And Real Estate Trends: Fourth Week In December 2023

Explore opulent properties and global real estate trends, including iconic estates and luxury living in Las Vegas Valley.

Sothebys International Realty

Heating It Up: 4 Homes With Cozy FireplacesSothebys International Realty

Introducing The 2024 Pantone® Color Of The Year: Peach FuzzSothebys International Realty

Video Of The Week: An Iconic Estate In Sausalito, CaliforniaSothebys International Realty

Inside A Modern Montauk “Tree House”Sothebys International Realty

Real Estate News

This $20 Million Prewar Penthouse in San Francisco Shows Off Alcatraz and the Golden Gate BridgeRobb Report

Connecticut’s Ziegler Farm Sells for $57.5 Million After Listing for $85 Million Last YearThe Wall Street Journal

Minimalist Miami Beach Penthouse Lists for $7.5 MillionMansion Global

Plant Obsessed? You’ll Love This $4.5M Peruvian PenthouseDwell

An NYC Townhouse That Must be Seen to be BelievedElite Traveler

Hot Property: A Wyoming Oasis For SaleCowboys & Indians

The most Expensive Bay Area homes that sold in 2023San Francisco Business Times

$3.5 Million Homes in CaliforniaThe New York Times

Surprise! Interior of this home for sale in Michigan is rather unexpected. See why.Yahoo!

In Austin, a Cantilevered Home Packed With Vintage Vibes Asks $4.5MDwell

This $19 Million NorCal Wine Country Home Lives in Easy Harmony With Its Natural SurroundingsRobb Report

Home DecorStaging December 19, 2023

What’s New In Art, Architecture, And Design

Contemporary Landscapes, Party Barns, and Bespoke Home Cocktail Bars Are All the Rage

Landscape painters are telling stories that reach far beyond stars, sky, and sea; backyard barns are playing host to elaborate get-togethers; and custom cocktail bars are serving drinks in style at home.

Here are the latest trends in art, architecture, and design.

Amy Bennett’s Camp, 18 by 24 inches, oil on panel, 2020. Photo Credit – Chris Snook Photography

Art

In the hands of contemporary artists, landscapes—which for centuries have served as voyeuristic travelogues of exotic locales—are pushing traditional boundaries.

From edgy scenes to outright abstractions, these new works have become settings for imaginative interpretations and narratives that allow viewers to see the world in a vastly different way.

Amy Bennett, whose studio is in Cold Spring, N.Y., sees herself as an omniscient narrator, an explorer not of the geographic terrain but of inner themes such as “isolation, family, time, and the difficulty of knowing and relating to one another.”

Her works, which she says offer a “God’s eye view,” start with a realistic miniature 3-D model that serves as a still life as well as a stage set.

For Small Changes Every Day, a 48-inch by 60-inch agrarian-themed oil painting, she created an eight-square-foot model that ultimately featured over 500 structures that she cut out of wood and painted by hand.

The models, which she often takes apart so she can reuse pieces for future works, allow her to control everything from lighting and poses to colors and to remove walls and “peer into places I don’t belong.”

Bennett’s inspiration, for the most part, comes from her own life and observations, including things she has read and watched. “The scenes usually percolate in my imagination,” she says.

She’s more interested in depicting a scene that makes viewers wonder than in painting a setting purely for its aesthetic appeal.

cocktail bar by Emma Green Design Photo Credits- Galleri Magnus Karlsson, Stockholm

Architecture

Bespoke backyard barns, which are being built to host big events as well as private parties in primary residences, are expanding the concept and physical boundaries of the traditional family room.

“They serve multiple uses,” says Daniel K. Glick, founder and partner of B&D Builders, an award-winning barn-building company based in Paradise, Pa. “People are drawn to spending time in a barn structure because of the inherent feelings of comfort and relaxation the atmosphere naturally provides.”

He notes that the company’s barns, which typically are made of Douglas fir, include accent beams, wall paneling, and furniture crafted from reclaimed wood. They also feature hand-forged hardware, and are used for everything from large-scale charity events to family reunions and weddings to yoga studios, basketball and tennis courts, and art studios.

In some cases, existing barns are renovated. For a private historic estate in Chester Springs, Pa., B&D Builders was commissioned to reimagine a working barn as an events space that features heated floors, a full kitchen, restrooms fashioned out of old horse stalls, a guest suite, a bar, several seating areas, and fireplaces.

The trend for party barns, Glick adds, took off in high gear when people were forced to stay home during the pandemic.

“Typically, they are a labor of love for the owners,” he says. “And we end up being invited to the first big event, which is always fun.”

Design

Sophisticated and glamorous, the bespoke cocktail bar has taken up residence in the private abode.

“Clients want the option to entertain more from home without forgoing the fun or luxury of a night out,” says Emma Green, whose namesake interior design firm is based in London. “They are using them to reward themselves with a drink at the end of a stressful day or busy week and as a reason to have their guests in their best room, which is often the living room, and to create something of a spectacle.”

The cocktail bars offer sparkle power to new and old homes alike. Outfitted with illuminated mirrors and glass shelves that showcase glittering collections of cut-crystal bottles and drinks glasses, they are comfortably inhabiting alcoves, including those on each side of the fireplace, and hallways adjacent to public rooms.

“I tend to design the bars to be a feature in themselves,” Green says. “Who wants to hide a gorgeous cocktail cabinet away?”

Called into action for before-dinner aperitifs and after-dinner cocktails, they often feature a refrigerator/freezer that promptly produces ice cubes as well as a small sink for washing all those lemons.

A barn renovated by B&D Builders. Photo Credit- Jana Bannan Photography

 

This article originally appeared at https://www.sothebysrealty.com/eng/whats-new-in-art-architecture-and-design-june2022