
Even though most New Yorkers pride themselves on living in the greatest city in the world, sometimes it can be fun to dream of a life elsewhere — maybe a seaside villa in Greece, or an idyllic retreat in the Hamptons. So, in partnership with Sotheby’s International Realty, we’re highlighting five of the most beautiful, sought-after homes in the world (including one right here in the city, for those NYC die-hards). The properties on this list include designs by renowned architects, gorgeous outdoor views, and ultra-modern amenities. Whether you want an urban oasis or a rural (high-end) hideaway — or you just love looking at photos of beautiful homes — there’s something for everyone to dream about. Read on to learn more about the properties, all available through Sotheby’s International Realty.
New York, New York
This apartment, located on the seventh, eighth, and ninth floors of a historic Gramercy Park building, is the product of a renovation that turned four units into one 4,950-square-foot home. The small details are what make this space truly unique: the collection of antique finds scattered throughout (like vintage 1940s wallpaper), the custom-crafted staircase, the hidden playroom for children. The playroom, tucked below the staircase on the seventh floor, has monkey bars and a chalkboard wall, plus it connects via an intercom to a second playroom upstairs. The eighth floor features a “saloon room” for entertaining, complete with a vintage barback with custom stained glass. Meanwhile, the primary suite and two additional bedrooms are located on the top floor, and the primary suite features skylights and a custom-built massage bed.
Queensland, Australia
Perched on a hilltop over Australia’s Coral Sea, this four-bedroom home was created by architect Kerry Hill. Hill designed the property to be modern and sophisticated — but also understated, to complement and not overpower the stunning views. The open-plan layout easily connects the indoor and outdoor spaces, allowing for gorgeous views of the Great Barrier Reef and the turquoise water surrounding it. The exterior area features large outdoor terraces with a heat-regulated infinity pool. Meanwhile, the interior includes four bedrooms, each with a private balcony, as well as a kitchen with a butler’s pantry. (The property is also adjacent to the InterContinental Hayman Island Resort, meaning all of the resort’s amenities are also available to the owner of the home.)
Bridgehampton, New York
Located just outside of NYC, this expansive Hamptons home sits on over two acres of outdoors space — making it an ideal retreat for those looking for an escape from the city. Besides the lavish grounds (which include a tennis court and an entertaining pavilion), the property also allows for easy access to Sagaponack Pond and the ocean. The home itself has been rebuilt and remodeled from a historic cottage originally built in 1902. It has three floors and a lower level, with large, sun-filled rooms and oak floors throughout. The interior also includes a home theater and a fitness studio.
Alberta, Canada
This majestic estate sits on nearly one acre of land in Calgary, Alberta. The exterior’s rundle stone facade and wrought iron fence give it a medieval castle-like feel, but the interior offers modern amenities like an elevator and two heated garages. The home’s entryway leads into the grand parlor, which features a Swarovski crystal chandelier (adding to that palatial feel) and floor-to-ceiling windows. Other rooms include a two-story study, a fitness center, a home theater, a games room with a full bar, and a dry sauna and steam room. The primary suite in the upper west wing has a dressing room and fireplace, as well as sweeping views of the surrounding mountains — part of the Canadian Rockies mountain range.
Mykonos, Greece
Stunning views of the Aegean Sea and expansive swimming pool space are two draws of this Mykonos villa, complete with six primary suites and a two-bedroom guest house. The villa, which features multiple private living spaces, is centered around a main outdoor pool area. (However, some of the suites also include their own private pools and hot tubs.) Expansive windows and an open-plan layout that smoothly connects the interior of the homes to the exterior provide scenic seaside vistas.
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