Luxury Portfolio Vol. 07 Issue 02 - Pacific Union International
V O L U M E 0 7 | I S S U E N O . 0 2
SOPHISTICATED SPACES LUXETRENDS ® OF GLASS AND WOOD IN COSTA RICA MARKET PULSE: ARTS AND CULTURE luxuryportfolio.com
PACIFIC UNION INTERNATIONAL 530.581.1882 | www.pacificuniontahoe.com
FROM PACIFIC UNION INTERNATIONAL
WELCOME TO LUXURY PORTFOLIO INTERNATIONAL ®
Luxury Portfolio International is a highly-regarded, global network of luxury independent real estate firms. Pacific Union is proud to have been invited to be a part of this prestigious international network that provides a global platform to market our significant listings to affluent consumers around the world. In this issue, you will explore an extraordinary modern home inspired by nature in Santa Ana, Costa Rica, and peruse estates with notable owners including Kelly Clarkson and Harry Connick Jr. Discover what lies beyond the slopes in well- known ski destinations and travel to Vienna, Austria and explore beloved past times in “The Imperial City.” Hear from design industry icon, Michela O’Connor Abrams about what she sees as “good” design and see our Market Pulse, which taps fascinating global markets impacted by the lively arts scene. And last, learn more about the fragrant flavors of the mint leaf in global cuisine and explore interior design showrooms to uncover some of the latest and greatest in-home renovation. Pacific Union International is the ultimate California real estate company, operating in eight regions within San Francisco, Marin County, Sonoma County, Napa County, Alameda County, Contra Costa County, Silicon Valley, and the Lake Tahoe/Truckee area. To leverage the significant buyer demand throughout California, Pacific Union has expanded its footprint to Southern California by merging with the John Aaroe Group and Partners Trust. We now have a network of offices in the most affluent neighborhoods in the Los Angeles area. Since 1975, Pacific Union International has been setting the standard for real estate performance. In 2016, the firm closed over $10.15 billion in sales – far outpacing the nearest competitor. With 1,509 real estate professionals, 47 offices, and locally owned, Pacific Union distinguishes itself through an entrepreneurial mindset and unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional service and expertise to ensure deep, long-standing client and real estate professional relationships. I hope you enjoy this edition of the Luxury Portfolio Magazine and if we can help you meet your real estate objectives, please feel free to contact us. It would be our pleasure to work for you. ®
Cheers,
Sally J. Gardner, Regional Executive & Broker Associate 530 581 1882
PACIFIC UNION INTERNATIONAL
Lake Tahoe Great Properties Exclusively Listed by Pacific Union International
530 581 1882 | pacificuniontahoe.com
AVAILABLE 4250 North Lake Boulevard, Carnelian Bay Offered at $5,845,000 Ooena.com/4250
AVAILABLE 1785 Autumn Lane, Shingle Springs
Offered at $3,850,000 1785AutumnLane.com
AVAILABLE 250 Sierra Crest Trail, Olympic Valley
AVAILABLE 206 Shoshone Way, Olympic Valley
Offerd at $2,195,000 250SierraCrest.com
Offered at $1,750,000 206ShoshoneWay.com
Find your perfect
San Francisco
Pacific Union International Real Estate | From Pier to Peaks Tahoe City 530 581 1882 | Truckee 530 587 7098 | Squaw Valley 530 584 6282 | Incline Village 775 238 6629
place in the world.
Take the Pacific Path.
pacificunion.com
AVAILABLE 15245 Kent Drive, Truckee Offered ad $1,250,000 KentDriveEstate.com
AVAILABLE 7001 Northstar Drive, #212, Truckee Offered at $1,175,000 7001NorthstarDrive212.com
AVAILABLE 1877 North Lake Boulevard #58
AVAILABLE 11581 Dolomite Way, Truckee Offered at $579,000 BouldersAtTruckee.com
Offered at $775,000 RockyRidge58.com
PAUL BOOMSMA || Editor-In-Chief | Publisher STEPHANIE PFEFFER ANTON || Executive Vice President CAMILLE SMITH || Managing Editor WESLEY GROVER || Contributing Editor ANNE COLVIN || Senior Manager, Member Services MICHELLE COX || Senior Manager, Marketing Services KELLEY FOGG || Web Support Manager STEPHANIE MULKA || Global Member Services Specialist ASHLEIGH ADAMS || Luxury Coordinator THOMAS WAHL || Data Analyst LYNDA VAN DUERM || Creative Director
ABBY REDFIELD || Graphic Designer LISA WESTRICK || Graphic Designer
PAM O’CONNOR || President | CEO ALAN CAZZATO || Vice President, Finance | CFO
CHRIS DIETZ || Executive Vice President, Global Operations LIZ NUNAN || Executive Vice President, Member Services
ROBIN LASURE || Vice President, Corporate Marketing JANA COLEMAN || Vice President, Business Solutions | North America STACI COWELL || Vice President, Business Solutions | North America PAM CHUTE || Vice President, Business Solutions | North America ERIN KOOPS || Vice President, Business Solutions | North America PAT POOLE || Vice President, Business Solutions | North America SUE SPARKS || Vice President, Business Solutions | North America
EFFIE ATSAVES || Executive Director, Marketing CECELIA CHOTT || Executive Director, Institute Content Services
SUZI MADONIA || Executive Director, Events SHEILA BARR || Director, Business Development JOHN GRELYAK || Director, Digital Technology ANNIE WEINER || Director, Human Resources BRENT WILLIAMS || Director, Member Services
CHICAGO | 161 N. Clark Street, Suite 1200 | Chicago, IL 60601 | USA | +1 312 424 0400 LONDON | 1 Northumberland Avenue | Trafalgar Square | London WC2N 5BW | UK | +44 20 3399 9040 SINGAPORE | 1 Raffles Place | Level 24 Tower 1 | Singapore 048616 | +65 6408 0507 luxuryportfolio.com
Argentina || Bahamas || Belgium || British Virgin Islands || Bulgaria || Canada || Cayman Islands || Costa Rica || Dominican Republic || France Germany || Greece || Hong Kong || Ireland || Italy || Malaysia || Mauritius || Mexico || New Zealand || Panama || Portugal || South Africa Spain || St. Maarten || St. Barthélemy || Switzerland || Turkey || Turks and Caicos || United Kingdom || U.S. Virgin Islands || USA
©2017 Luxury Portfolio International. ® All rights reserved. Luxury Portfolio International, ® LuxeTrends, ® LuxeChatter, ® Leading Real Estate Companies of the World, ® Be Your Luxury Self, TM as well as all logo designs pertaining to the aforementioned names and/or marks, and luxuryportfolio.com copyright, are property of Reliance Relocation Services, Inc. and are protected by United States and international copyright, trademark and other intellectual property laws. The absence of a name or logo in the aforementioned list does not constitute a waiver of any and all intellectual property rights that Reliance Relocation Services, Inc. has established in any of its product, feature, or service names or logos. © 2017 Luxury Portfolio International. ® Offering is subject to errors, omissions, change of price, or withdrawal without notice. Prices may have been converted from original currency at time of printing and may differ from current rates. All information considered reliable; however, it has been supplied by third parties and should not be relied on as accurate or complete. Equal Housing Opportunity.
LUXURY MEMBERS CONNECT FOR 2017 SUMMIT Top Luxury Sales Associates Enjoyed Insights from Industry Leaders, Networking Opportunities and More at the 2017 Luxury Portfolio Annual Conference in Miami, Florida. Each year, Luxury Portfolio holds a three-day, invitation-only SUMMIT to present the latest and greatest trends, innovation and affluent consumer insights to a very select group of high performing professionals. This year, over 600 top sales associates from 17 countries were invited to convene at the beautiful Fontainebleau Hotel, in Miami, Florida to share and learn from industry leaders while networking and mingling with their peers from around the world. The event featured speakers such as former CEO of Dwell Media, Michela O’Connor Abrams, Leading Real Estate Companies of the World Chief Economist, Marci Rossell, best-selling author Brad Meltzer and filmmaker Brett Culp, among others, who each brought a unique and exciting perspective to working with the high-net-worth today. Conference guests were invited to participate in stimulating activities by day and to relax and network at night while enjoying music and dancing at a private, after-hours party at LIV, the hottest nightclub in the country and at the fabulous poolside closing Sahara Sunset event, which featured live camels, professional belly dancers and more. It was an event for the ages and guests left recharged, inspired and looking forward to next year.
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Members expanded their professional network at every opportunity.
SUMMIT attendees hear about the market from global luxury real estate experts.
Capturing snaps before attending one of the many social events.
Camels and belly dancers provided live entertainment at the closing Sahara Sunset event.
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Attendees enjoyed fun and informative activities beside stunning ocean views.
Guests pose for photos at the private reception at one of Miami’s hottest nightclubs, LIV.
Mingling and networking at the gorgeous Fontainebleau Hotel.
Panels with top agents from around the world provided thoughts on the changing landscape of the industry and the affluent buyer.
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EXCEPTIONAL SALES
WATERFRONT ESTATE ON LONG NECK POINT DARIEN, CONNECTICUT
LAST LISTED AT $12,999,000 USD
This spectacular 2.37-acre waterfront compound on Long Neck Point includes a newly refurbished gunite pool, tennis court, and a new dock. The architect-designed main house was built in 2003 and was designed with understated elegance that includes rustic wide plank floors, exposed wood ceiling beams, and windows and doors facing the water. The home’s master suite with a dramatic vaulted ceiling and water views encompasses an oversized bathroom, multiple walk-in closets, an office, an exercise room and balcony. Web ID: XJGC88
LAKE PARK AT LOUGH DAN CO. WICKLOW, IRELAND
LAST LISTED €3,500,000
With breathtaking greenery and astonishing gardens as far as the eye can see, Lake Park House stands as one of the most captivating estates in Wicklow, Ireland. This 8,000-square-foot period home has been refurbished since its inception in 1835 as a shooting estate, yet has not lost its inherent charm. In the restored formal rooms you will find large gothic windows overlooking Ireland’s rolling lawns and period fireplaces. Just beyond the decorative lead paneled doors and the hauntingly beautiful fields, lie forests latent with wildflowers and oak woods leading down to the lakeshore. Rich in both beauty and history, Lake Park House was once home to acclaimed Irish poet Richard Murphy when he produced Boat House, Mooring and Woodland Pathway. Web ID: WEMY88
luxuryportfolio.com
CASA DE LAS OLAS NOKOMIS, FLORIDA
SOLD AT $6,169,600 USD
Casa de las Olas, House of the Waves, is one of the largest, direct beachfront gated estates on Casey Key, perfectly situated between Siesta Key and Venice. With 147 feet of frontage on the Gulf of Mexico, this exquisite Mediterranean masterpiece transports you to an oasis of coastal elegance from the moment of arrival. Designed by renowned architect Clifford Scholz, the main house features over 6,600 square feet of living space and is separated from the tropical guest house overlooking the stunning pool/outdoor kitchen area. Dramatic Gulf and garden views wrap the home in tranquility and the refined yet casual decor enlivens each space with the colors of the seaside. Web ID: EKYW88
STUNNING SINGLE-LEVEL ESTATE ON INCREDIBLE ACREAGE SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO, CALIFORNIA
LAST LISTED AT $6,500,000 USD
Elevated on a ridgeline, this 11.7-acre estate is nestled atop the 25th largest residential lot in all of Orange County, bordering areas of untouched open space. Completed in 2006, this custom estate has unobstructed mountain, city lights, lake and ocean views. The exquisite and expansive grounds include a 1,000-foot long driveway, gated entry, southwest facing hillside, 400 grape vines, 160 avocado trees, citrus trees, saltwater pool, pool house, six car garage, 48 solar panels, wine cellar, riding arena, stables and direct trail access. With floor-to-ceiling glass walls, gabled roofs, distressed wood floors and stone surfaces, the home radiates a casual elegance making it perfect for entertaining in style. Web ID: LGQY88
CHALET IN EXCLUSIVE BAXTER CREEK WHISTLER, B.C., CANADA
LAST LISTED FOR C$3,499,000
This five-bedroom home is situated in one of Whistler’s newest neighborhoods, Baxter Creek, a unique enclave of single-family residences. Natural elements meet modern luxury in this contemporary mountain home where large windows highlight dramatic views from the turquoise waters of Green Lake to the snowcaps of Whistler, Blackcomb, and Black Tusk. The open plan living area lends itself to gatherings with a gourmet kitchen and living room with a white quartz fireplace. The master bedroom upstairs is a private retreat for a soak in the tub or quiet moment to enjoy the outdoors on the private master deck. Downstairs there is a large recreation room with a walk-out patio and access to the backyard. Web ID: WZIT88
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SIGNIFICANT LISTINGS
CRYSTAL BAY, NEVADA, USA US $75,000,000 || WEB ID: LQHD88
VANCOUVER, BC, CANADA C $46,800,000 || WEB ID: WHKT88
BEL-AIR, CALIFORNIA, USA US $250,000,000 || WEB ID: MMZT88
COLOMBIER, SAINT BARTHELEMY PRICE UPON REQUEST || WEB ID: HCJT88
ROME, ITALY PRICE UPON REQUEST || WEB ID: XERT88
KAZANLAK, BULGARIA PRICE UPON REQUEST || WEB ID: PJIV88
To view these properties, simply visit luxuryportfolio.com and search the Web ID.
JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA R110,000,000 || WEB ID: OFQT88
PETWORTH, UNITED KINGDOM £6,250,000 || WEB ID: PXLD88
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LUXE TRENDS ®
STAYING CURRENT WITH the latest and greatest modernisms, experiencing destinations of distinction and knowing how to pamper yourself have long been major elements in defining your luxury lifestyle. Showcasing a combination of indulgence, creativity, and practicality in everyday details, the following collection of trends offer some of our favorites to add luxury to your life and inspire your own ideas.
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LUXETRENDS: EDITOR’S PICKS
Cargo-Carrying Robot We could all use a helping hand sometimes, and Gita, the cargo-carrying robot from Piaggio Fast Forward, wants to be the solution to lighten your load. The intuitive bot can follow you around, with a holding space of nearly 2,000 cubic inches (the equivalence of two full grocery bags), or send it on a delivery mission in autonomous mode and Gita will carefully avoid any obstacles along the way. Equipped with a secure lock, 360-degree camera and eight-hour battery life, the intelligent companion takes hands free to a new level. piaggiofastforward.com Yäan Wellness Y ou’ll find much more than good vibes and sunshine at the Yäan Wellness Energy Spa in Tulum, Mexico. A temple of rejuvenation for the mind and body, the center goes beyond pampering and offers ancient wellness techniques from holistic Mayan healers and practitioners from around the world. Indulge in the healing waters treatment, guided by a personal valet, or crank up the heat and feel the cleansing of a temazcal (traditional sweat lodge). yaanwellness.com Underwater Drone Do we need an underwater drone? Probably not, but you better believe we want one. Forget aerial drones (so 2016) — it’s time to explore the seas with the PowerRay: a fully submersible, camera-equipped device that can reach depths of 98 feet (30 meters). Find the perfect place to drop your fishing line or make an aquatic video on your next vacation with the stunning 4K UHD camera and relive the experience in virtual reality using the Zeiss VR One Plus goggles. powervision.me 16 Cameras in One Shutterbugs take note: Light L16 is a game changer of a camera. Forget carrying bulky lenses around, because this pocket-sized wonder is equipped with 16 of them to capture high resolution, DSLR-quality images with ease. With multiple cameras firing at once, the L16 gives you the freedom to edit depth-of-field and focal point long after shooting, while the 5X optical zoom ensures beautiful close-ups without compromising quality. light.co BeoSound Shape The BeoSound Shape from Bang & Olufsen walks the line between breathtaking sound system and visual art, making it a must-have for the audiophile with an eye for design. Wireless and wall-mounted, the modular system allows you to customize the shape to your aesthetic pleasure while optimizing the acoustics with an arrangement that best suits your living space. bang-olufsen.com Electric Scrambler Finally, an electric bicycle that’s equal parts stylish and eco-friendly. The Scrambler from Vintage Electric draws its shape from classic motorcycles, but the 702-watt hour lithium battery is very much built for today, reaching cruising speeds of 36 mph (58 kph). Suitable for a spin around the neighborhood or an off-road excursion, the Scrambler knows no limits thanks to the dual sport suspension and off-road knobby tires woven with KevlarGuard to prevent flats. vintageelectricbikes.com
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Southeast Asia Yacht Charter The Dunia Baru was designed to
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explore the beauty of Southeast Asia in traditional style. From the untouched coast of Myanmar to Indonesia’s Raja Ampat archipelago, often considered the most diverse marine habitat on the planet, you can venture to far corners with laid back luxury. Complete with six en suite staterooms plus a full-beam master suite, a stargazing foredeck, and a shaded lounge area that converts into an al fresco cocktail bar at night makes for the ideal way to unwind after a day of diving, sunbathing and endless adventure. duniabaru.com Trunk Desk Recalling a bygone era of refined travel, the Ghurka Trunk Desk can hold everything your journey requires and then some. Complete with eight drawer cabins, the trunk doubles as a desk with a clean surface and removable chair for the nostalgic letter writer. Handcrafted using the finest leather, each custom made piece develops its own unique patina as it ages and travels the globe. ghurka.com HiCan Bed The bed industry is on notice, with HiCan shattering the barrier separating mattress and entertainment system. A modern-day canopy, the state-of-the- art design includes an HD projector with a 70" home theater screen, automated
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adjustable head and foot rests, a personal health tracker, and
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much more. Draw the automated blinds, shut out the world and have yourself a lazy Sunday in this cutting-edge cocoon. hi-can.com
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MARKET PULSE ARTS AND CULTURE
WEB ID: BSWC88 New construction home in Berlin
BERLIN, GERMANY
ARTISTIC AND CULTURAL activities
Top art and/or cultural destinations? Some of the top cultural destinations in the area include Kreuzberg, known for its alternative music scene and Berlin’s punk rock movement, Prenzlauer Berg, a popular area brimming with pubs, cafés and bustling nightlife, and Mitte, Berlin’s historic core, home to many cultural landmarks including The Soviet War Memorial. Are there any incentives or initiatives surrounding the arts that impact your market? Recently, homes in our area have been used for more than housing residents. For example, a period home that will soon be refurbished, has recently been used as a pop-up museum with visitors waiting in line for more than 6 hours to see the space. The installation has garnered huge interest in the community. How has this impacted your local market? Creatives from all over the world are coming to Berlin, seeking out the new, hot spot areas in lieu of traditional districts.
often serve as recreational pastimes for the affluent,
Highest recorded sale in last 12 months: €74 million (residential development)
with collections from antiquities to fine art
Compared to last year, prices in your market are: Up What is the price point for the Top 10% of inventory across your market? €4 million to €5 million
regularly displayed in the finest of homes around the world. Following is an insider’s look at the real estate market in a curated list of global destinations which are particularly influenced by their remarkably strong, local artistic and culture communities. For more information or to contact a Luxury Portfolio member in these markets, and beyond, visit luxuryportfolio.com.
Most international buyers are coming from: Israel, Russia, and Italy
What are luxury buyers looking for in your market? In our area, top buyers seek out high-end developments in trendy areas. Areas like Kurfürstendamm or Unter den Linden, both popular recreational and shopping destinations, are highly sought-after locations in Berlin. Because there are only a few companies in Berlin developing buildings in these areas, the name of a quality developer behind the property is also important for clients.
luxuryportfolio.com
MARKET PULSE
TOP ARTS AND/OR CULTURAL DESTINATIONS IN YOUR MARKET?
Web ID: SLLT88 A relaxing Montréal home with tropical gardens
BERLIN, GERMANY · KREUZBERG · PRENZLAUER BERG · MITTE · THE SOVIET WAR MEMORIAL
MONTRÉAL, CANADA
Highest recorded sale in last 12 months: C $4.95 million
Compared to last year, prices in your market are: Up
MONTRÉAL, CANADA · PLACE DES ARTS
What is the price point for the Top 10% of inventory across your market? C $2.63 million Most international buyers are coming from: The most international buyers are coming from China and Western Europe (e.g., France, Belgium). environment. Canada remains the 8th safest place in the world, which makes Montreal a top destination among those seeking a tranquil home environment. Top arts and/or cultural destinations in your market? Artistic and cultural destinations like downtown Montreal, especially Place des Arts, a popular performing arts center, are the most attractive areas for art and culture. Overall, the greater Montreal area is an important center of arts and culture in Canada. Any incentives or initiatives surrounding the arts that impact your market? For Montreal’s 375th anniversary, the city invested more than $200 million CAD in infrastructures which should help stimulate the local real estate market. Montreal is becoming a large center of arts and cultural experiences. Luxury buyers are attracted to this market because they are seeking a better quality of life, a tranquil environment, and unique experiences. What are luxury buyers looking for in your market? Luxury buyers are looking for a secure and peaceful
PORTLAND, OREGON · THE PEARL DISTRICT · LAN SU CHINESE GARDEN · PORTLAND JAPANESE GARDEN
SAN MIGUEL, MEXICO · FABRICA DE LA AURORA · INSTITUTO ALLENDE
luxuryportfolio.com
WEB ID: FJND88 Take in the river views of this downtown Portland condo
WEB ID: BGQV88 Walking distance to the heart of San Miguel
PORTLAND, OREGON
SAN MIGUEL, MEXICO
Highest recorded sale in last 12 months: US $2.8 million
Highest recorded sale in last 12 months: US $2.9 million
Compared to last year, prices in your market are: About the same
Compared to last year, prices in your market are: Up
What is the price point for the Top 10% of inventory across your market? US $1.4 million (median)
What is the price point for the Top 10% of inventory across your market? US $350,000 to $500,000
Most international buyers are coming from: Canada and China
Most international buyers are coming from: USA
What are luxury buyers looking for in your market? Luxury buyers are looking for period homes that have been completely rehabbed with luxurious master bed/bath suites. In the downtown condo market, building amenities like concierge service, in-building gyms, and wine storage lockers are becoming increasingly important as well. Luxury buyers tend to be more accommodating of the changing views of the downtown core, but they are often willing to pay for a protected or secure view. They also consider proximity to trendy streets with restaurants and shops when selecting a property. Privacy and discretion are also very important to the luxury buyers; many are not looking to rent out their homes, even if they do not intend to reside there full time. Top arts and/or cultural destinations? Portland, especially The Pearl District, is a mecca for arts and culture enthusiasts who visit the museums, galleries, theaters and performing arts centers throughout the area. Cultural spaces within the city, like the Lan Su Chinese Garden, as well as the Portland Japanese Garden in the West Hills, are also a draw. Many communities throughout the metro area host their own festivals and events celebrating art, music and more.
What are luxury buyers looking for in your market? Luxury buyers in San Miguel are looking for prime locations, such as central views to La Parroquia, the parish church of San Miguel. Top arts and/or cultural destinations? Top cultural destinations in San Miguel include Fabrica de la Aurora, a renovated textile mill showcasing cafés, shops, and works by local artists, Instituto Allende, the renowned art school in San Miguel and several art galleries around town. Are there any incentives or initiatives surrounding the arts that impact your market? Several festivals, conferences and recreational activities including The Guanajuato International Film Festival, the SMART food festival, Jazz festivals, TEDEX events, and local vineyards all bring another level of interest to the high social economic sector, where luxury is very well appreciated.
luxuryportfolio.com
OF GLASS AND WOOD
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IN COSTA RICA’S CENTRAL VALLEY, THE TROPICAL CLIMATE AND VAST EXPANSES OF NATURE DEFINE THE WAY OF LIFE. It’s a region of verdant rainforests, striking volcanoes, and wildlife not found anywhere else. When Spanish architect Joan Puigcorbé was tasked with creating a modern residence in this setting, the project became a balancing act between the comforts of the indoors and the outdoor scenery. For Puigcorbé, simplicity was always paramount, as he states, “We are looking to tap into how one feels, how one moves, with only the essential.” Set within the Valle del Sol neighborhood in Santa Ana, one of the most coveted areas on the western side of Costa Rica’s capital city, San José, The Wood House came to life as a minimalist residence that, quite literally, breaks down barriers.
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Natural accents complement each bedroom.
Beachwood and glass walls blur the lines between home and nature.
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There is, one will immediately notice, an absence of walls, at least in the traditional sense. By largely limiting the materials to glass and Melina wood (also known as beechwood), Puigcorbé places the emphasis on the natural world. Centered around two interior gardens encased in glass, the main living spaces embrace transparency and are steeped in sunlight throughout the day. The effect is as if the home and nature are one. “In this case, the horizontal form of the house allows us to cohabit with the existing trees, and the internal patios heighten this sensation.” — Joan Puigcorbé, architect The Wood House’s most essential element is “generating a new landscape between the inside and outside, and connecting both through light, form, and matter.” Placed directly beside the spacious living room, where glass walls open to lush greenery, a 25-meter swimming pool starts within the home and extends outside, giving the sense of a river that passes through. Amidst the open layout, four bedrooms and an office space are discreetly tucked away, each with unique viewpoints of the surroundings.
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In the end, creating a rich experience through a minimalist approach did not mean compromising on features. Hidden beneath the surface, The Wood House is outfitted with state-of-the-art JUNG electric systems and BSV Electronic lighting. In the kitchen, black granite and streamlined BOSCH appliances are sure to please the discerning gourmet, while the bathrooms are finished with the elegant, geometric Element collection from Roca. A gateway to the active lifestyle, beyond the 7,000 square foot (651 m²) interiors, one will find the 18-hole golf course and tennis facilities of Valle del Sol take full advantage of Costa Rica’s year-round climate. Located just 15 kilometers from San José, The Wood House feels worlds away, yet enjoys easy access to cosmopolitan amenities and an international airport.
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TAKEAWAYS PRICE | US $2,180,000 SQ FT | 7,000 (651 m² )
BEDROOMS | 4 BATHROOMS | 4 HIGHLIGHT • 15 kilometers from San José, Costa Rica
TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THE WOOD HOUSE, visit luxuryportfolio.com and search Web ID: ESTW88.
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Transparent walls invite fluidity into the space.
The pool begins within and cascades beyond the home like a private river.
Contemporary design and minimalist décor add to the allure of this space.
Greenery and natural sunlight peer into lush baths.
luxuryportfolio.com
CURATED
THE SHOWROOM EXPERIENCE: INSPIRATION THROUGH EXPLORATION
Whether an interior designer sourcing for
HERE ARE A FEW OF OUR FAVORITE FINDS:
a client, or a homeowner gathering inspiration for a current or future kitchen or bath renovation, there is no better feeling than uncovering the perfect piece or product for your home, especially from the most recognized and respected manufacturers worldwide. Visiting a design showroom is an experience that is meant to engage all senses — from the feel of the tile that will decorate a shower wall, to a cooking demonstration with the appliances that will soon call your kitchen home, to the gentle glide of custom cabinetry that softly closes on its own. Showrooms bring design ideas to life. Today, with so many fantastic and unique products on the market, and so many dedicated showrooms in major cities and design-destinations around the world, there is no better place to start exploring and find exactly what you are looking for, than indulging in the showroom experience.
DIVINE FLOORING Inspired by the grandeur of 17th century French palaces and manor houses, this exquisite flooring captures the brilliant artistry of that period, yet complements both traditional and contemporary decor. All flooring in this collection is worked and finished by hand. divinefloor.com ROHL Just as in the finest couture design, the ROHL Italian Kitchen Patrizia Pull-Down Kitchen Faucet is beautifully tailored, with a subtle hint of flirty curve. Slimming details along the spout and on the pull- down handle make this faucet the perfect mix of feminine style and strength. Shown here in Matte Black finish. rohlhome.com DEVON&DEVON Devon&Devon recently unveiled its first collection of wallpapers for both bath and living areas. The collection takes its inspiration from a wide variety of contexts, from the classical to the exquisitely eccentric. devon-devon.com/en
ARTISTIC TILE The Lauren Harper Collection from Artistic Tile transforms Harper’s “fearless and feminine” jewelry designs into gorgeous stained glass mosaics, hand-crafted from its new Symphony Glass. artistictile.com TRUE REFRIGERATION True Refrigeration recently introduced its 30-inch refrigeration column with industry exclusive, stainless-framed glass door option to feature interior contents — reminiscent of an authentic commercial kitchen. truemfg.com
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These finds and more are available at LuxeHome, the world’s largest collection of premier boutiques for home building and renovation, located in the Merchandise Mart in Chicago, Illinois. The LuxeHome Concierge is onsite to help visitors customize their shopping experience. For more information visit luxehome.com.
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ARTISAN
COOL. FRESH. MINT.
COOL AND REFRESHING, BRIGHT AND ASTRINGENT, THE FLAVOR of mint adds contrast and delight to both savory and sweet dishes and drinks. Given that, it is no surprise mint makes an appearance in a variety of cuisines around the world. From its pairing with lamb in Middle Eastern cuisine to the English favorite of minted peas, mint adds a dash of the unexpected. Inexpensive and readily available, mint is also astonishingly easy to grow and relatively drought tolerant. Varietals from pineapple mint to orange mint create a wide variety of flavors to choose from and can be used fresh in salads, cocktails, and desserts or dried for later use. Helpful tip: For those adventurous enough to grow your own, be warned mint has a tendency to take over a garden, so it is best to plant it in pots or in spots with a stone border. Where to try: With such a profusion of minty deliciousness around the world, it can be encountered nearly everywhere. However, to experience mint at its most delightful, here are a few particularly fabulous places to add to your list.
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PROOF ON MAIN AT THE 21C Louisville, KY
LA MAMOUNIA Marrakesh, Morocco
Say mint julep to many people and they immediately think of the Kentucky Derby. In the Derby’s hometown of Louisville, the art-filled 21c hotel serves the famous cocktail at their well-regarded Proof on Main bar. Founded by arts patrons Laura Lee Brown and Steve Wilson, 21c brings works of art to the public through innovative exhibitions and their art-filled bar. Their mint julep is made with Kentucky’s own Woodford Reserve Bourbon and fresh mint and is served in a classic silver julep tumbler. The bar also offers a comprehensive bourbon library and a bourbon flight. proofonmain.com Recommendations: If you are staying for a meal, a perfect pairing with a mint julep is their famous bison burger served with their house-made Jezebel sauce, a tangy concoction of apricot preserves, apple jelly, horseradish and spices. THE SLANTED DOOR San Francisco, CA Mint is an essential grace note in Vietnamese cooking, adding delicate flavor to the rice vermicelli salads such as bun bo and bun cha. In 1995, Charles Phan and his family started their first restaurant, The Slanted Door, in the Mission district in San Francisco with an eye toward serving home-style Vietnamese food in a modern setting. The Slanted Door has been at its current location, The Ferry Building, since 2004 and works with farmers at Ferry Building farmers’ market to source fresh ingredients. It received the James Beard Award for Outstanding Restaurant in 2014. slanteddoor.com 2 Recommendations: Noodles are a popular favorite including an option with grilled organic chicken, cucumber and mint. The classic Slanted Door spring rolls feature gulf shrimp, pork, shallot mayonnaise, peanut sauce and of course, mint.
Moroccan mint tea, served in a stunning Moorish-inspired setting awaits visitors to the Menzeh pavilion at the famed
La Mamounia hotel and spa in Marrakesh. Opened in 1923, La
Mamounia was a favorite of Sir Winston Churchill and one of the hotel’s bars even bears his name. Surrounded by a lush garden, the tearoom offers a tea service with delicate traditional and contemporary sweets made by the hotel’s pastry chef. The tearoom is opened to guests at the hotel as well as other visitors and day passes to the hotel spa are available. mamounia.com Recommendations: After your mint tea, indulge in a stroll through the gardens of La Mamounia with ancient olive trees, lemon trees, jacarandas, bougainvillea, amaranth, agaves, prickly pear trees and more. JACQUES GENIN Paris, France Mint and chocolate have always been a natural match with cooling mint deliciously offsetting rich, dark chocolate. Chocolatier Jacques Genin is a Paris legend and said to be one of the best chocolate makers in the world, known for turning out prodigious amounts of sugary confections in his chocolate laboratory. He elevates the mint chocolate experience with his Menthe Amante, a chocolate ganache with fresh peppermint that is one of his shop’s best sellers. His delectable bonbons are packaged in elegant silvery metal boxes perfect for that person who has everything. jacquesgenin.fr Recommendations: After you’ve enjoyed a Menthe Amante, note that Genin is also known for his caramels which come in delicious flavors such as mango-passionfruit, raspberry, black currant, rhubarb and pistachio. A memorable treat not to be missed. 4
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JET SET
THE WORLD’S TOP SKI DESTINATIONS HAVE allure far beyond the slopes. Mountain towns are known for their picturesque beauty, clean air, and delightful attractions. Here we focus on four popular ski destinations that offer all-season outdoor fun, no lift pass required. Biking in Cortina, Italy Cortina d’Ampezzo in Italy’s towering Dolomites mountains attracts an international crowd that can swell to over 50,000 during the winter season. Host of the Winter Olympics in 1956, Cortina was also a favorite of Ernest Hemingway. No matter what the time of year, Cortina is a cycling paradise. In the warm months, mountain bikers can test their mettle on scenic routes sprinkled with lush meadows and mountain huts. Road cyclists have their choice of adventures through the passes of the Giro d’Italia, an annual multi-stage bicycle race, that has challenged some of the world’s top cyclists. In cooler months, fat-tired bike tours at Rifugio Col Gallina, a well-tended and picturesque meadow among the mountain-ranges, deliver an exhilarating snow-fueled experience. Stay: Located minutes from the center of Cortina d’Ampezzo is the Rosapetra Spa Resort, a woodsy chic retreat with just 29 rooms and a spa with a pool, saunas, a Turkish bath, and treatments ranging from seawater cosmetic treatments known as thalassotherapy to a Turkish bath. rosapetracortina.it
MORE THAN YOUR AVERAGE SKI TOWNS
Enjoy cycling and mountain ranges year-round in Cortina.
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Hiking in Zermatt, Switzerland Zermatt is a Swiss destination that lures skiers all year long with an incredible network of challenging runs yet is equally famous for its phenomenal hiking and mountaineering. Zermatt is surrounded by hiking trails of all levels starting with a 45-minute walk up to the postcard-perfect Edelweiss Hut. The Rotenboden to Riffelberg hike rewards adventurous travelers with stunning angles of the famous Matterhorn and Weisshorn peak. Stay: Hikers seeking a luxurious overnight stay in high elevations can bunk at the 3100 Kulmhotel Gornergrat for a view of 29 mountain peaks reaching at least 4,000 meters. The hotel’s observatory in the south tower is a stargazer’s delight. zermatt.ch Bobsledding in Whistler, Canada For thrill seekers with a need for speed, the Whistler Sliding Center, the location for the bobsleigh, skeleton and luge competitions during the Vancouver 2010 Olympics, is the place to be. Daring bobsleigh riders can get a taste of 75-mile-per- hour runs through twists and turns. Four-person bobsleigh rides include an experienced pilot to handle the controls. Those craving even more adrenaline can, after a safety orientation, opt for solo skeleton rides, zooming head-first down the track. When the temperatures warm, a summer bobsleigh program with wheels instead of runners, keeps the fun going year-round. Stay: Nita Lake Lodge, Whistler’s only lakefront lodge is a dog- friendly resort with a picture-perfect lakeside hot tub. The lodge also has seasonal complimentary amenities including kayaks and canoes for summer and snowshoes in the winter months. whistlersportlegacies.com Ice Skating in Sun Valley, Idaho Sun Valley is known for its legendary slopes, but it has another passion: ice skating. The Sun Valley Outdoor Ice Rink is one of the few year-round outdoor ice rinks in the United States and hosts ice shows all summer long to the delight of both locals and tourists alike. In the winter, the rink is the home of the hockey team the Sun Valley Suns with games every Friday and Saturday night. For even more skating adventure, visit during December through February when the massive two-acre Christina Potters Outdoor Ice Rink is open in nearby Ketchum. Stay: The venerable Sun Valley Lodge was completely renovated in 2015 with the addition of a 20,000-square-foot two-story destination spa that offers a wide variety of massages, soaks, and healing rituals designed to wash away a day of activity. sunvalley.com
A stunning view of Swiss hills from a renovated traditional villa. Web ID: GVAV88
Snowy mountains behind a cozy Canadian estate. Web ID: ZXFT88
Ice skating, legendary slopes and intimate spas add to Sun Valley’s appeal. Web ID: RHPT88
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REFLECTIONS ON “GOOD” DESIGN WITH MICHELA O’CONNOR ABRAMS
SITTING DOWN WITH A DESIGN INDUSTRY ICON AND PUBLISHING powerhouse is a humbling experience. But Michela O’Connor Abrams, former CEO of Dwell Media, made it easy. Her enthusiasm for all things home coupled with her extensive experience and knowledge were matched only by her genuine warmth and approachable style. She had much to share with Luxury Portfolio readers as we reflected on design and its impact on the home space, today, and in the future.
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Q: You are known for your passion for good design. What does “good design” mean to the affluent today? A: “Good design” is many things and encompasses many attributes. I believe Anders Toxboe says it best, “Good design is not just what looks good. It also needs to perform, convert, astonish, and fulfill its purpose. It can be innovative or it might just get the job done.” When we refer to design, it is easily thought to be just aesthetics but that is far from the truth. Something can be beautiful and fall short in every other area in which it must perform. Q: What are the top design trends for the coming year? What’s hot? A: Believe it or not “small is the new big,” continues to be a global design trend. Gone are the days of McMansions being the pinnacle of success for those who can afford them. Specifically, younger generations like GenX and Millennials see big as the new bad. Once again “good design” informs global trends in architecture and design. Prefab building systems are being perfected in the custom home market and starting to take hold in cities everywhere. Finally, living “off the grid” becomes more popular as the distributed workforce becomes more pervasive. Mountain tops, islands, forests, lakes and the like are being sought out for that oasis of good living. Q: On the flip side, what do you see going out of fashion? A: Again, huge homes are out of fashion. The rare behemoth being built where two or three homes once stood is only a developer’s media moment because the “new affluent” want sustainability, authenticity, modernity, privacy and natural connection to be the priority in their dwellings. Prestige is alive and well in a home of modest size. Along with that, planned developments of thousands of cookie-cutter homes only differentiated by their gratuitous gable are on the decline. Q: What, in your opinion, makes a house a home? A: A house is a structure and a home is architecture with people living in it. Each of us desires certain colors, textures, views, angles, and comforts in our homes but most of all we want home to be a place we want to be by ourselves or with everyone else we love. Q: Looking to the coming year, what are you most excited about? A: I am most excited to see modern architecture be more understood as good design, and good design be understood as a balance of the best and most valued ingredients in our lives.
MICHELA O’CONNOR ABRAMS IS THE FORMER CEO OF DWELL MEDIA, THE AWARD-WINNING MEDIA COMPANY FOUNDED IN 2000 BY LARA DEAM
Michela’s 15 years of leadership at Dwell led to General Excellence at the National Magazine Awards, finalist in the corporate category for the prestigious National Design Awards, and National recognition for both circulation growth and newsstand sales. In 2005, she conceived and launched Dwell on Design, the largest design show in the U.S. hosting 25,000+ design professionals and enthusiasts in 2011. She has led the development and growth of Dwell Media’s digital platforms including web, mobile, and tablet products which were recently recognized as ‘#1 Most Innovative’ in Affinity Research’s August 2011 survey.
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WHAT WE LOVE ABOUT VIENNA, AUSTRIA
Visitors are captivated by its elegance and extravagant traditions. Known as The Imperial City, Vienna reveals striking remnants of the Habsburg era at every turn and has long been celebrated as a center for classical music. Its lavish concert halls, art museums, palaces, and wine taverns offer abundant opportunities to indulge the senses. 1
AMUSEMENT PARK Originally used as imperial hunting grounds, the Prater is the recreational hub of the city and houses one of the oldest amusement parks in the world. Generations of Austrians have enjoyed the numerous attractions and high-quality restaurants like Schweizerhaus, a rustic beer hall and garden, that Prater has to offer. Not to be missed is a ride on the 120-year-old Ferris wheel, the Riesenrad, which provides sensational city views and is open year-round. DANCING AND OPERA With more than 400 galas every year and many open to the public, you can flaunt your finest attire while practicing your Waltz among Viennese society at these posh functions. The height of the season takes place from January until March, and no problem if you don’t have a date — you can hire a so-called Taxi Dancer to partner with throughout the night! The most sought-after ticket in town is the Opera Ball, held at the world-famous Vienna State Opera. If you can’t make it to the ball, there are tours of the Opera almost daily or attend one of the 70 different productions featured there every year. Individual subtitle screens during performances make it easy for even an opera novice to enjoy. COFFEE HOUSES Sit down and enjoy a coffee the old-fashioned way, in what is known as the coffee house capital of the world. Travel back to 19th century Vienna, as you are surrounded by the ornate furnishings of Cafés Sperl, Central, Ritter or Landtmann. It is customary for patrons to converse with company or select a newspaper to read while they sip, instead of relying on mobile devices to pass the time. Consider trying a unique Viennese treat, such as an Einspänner — strong coffee topped with whipped cream.
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HOMES WITH NOTABLE OWNERS
SPECTACULAR PROPERTIES OFTEN BECOME IMBUED WITH THE SPIRIT OF THEIR OWNERSHIP Whether it’s an iconic actress or a business titan, a notable owner adds a layer of history and legend to an already extraordinary residence. From a sumptuous city abode with a stunning urban view to a personal retreat with expansive acreage,
each of these homes reflect a meticulous
attention to detail and exquisite taste in full flourish.
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GRETA GARBO’S NEW YORK RIVER RETREAT Located in the famously private Campanile building, is movie icon Greta Garbo’s New York City retreat. The sophisticated three-bedroom aerie perched above the East River was said to remind the actress of her native Stockholm. The actress, who received an honorary Oscar in 1955, purchased the property in 1953 and lived in the fifth-floor unit until her death in 1990. Her family continues to own the unit and kept much of her original vision for the home intact including the pink and green color scheme. Garbo’s favorite room was said to be the expansive L-shaped living room which has a fireplace with a green marble surround and separate library/ den. The walls of the spacious master bedroom are adorned in Garbo’s favorite rose-hued Fortuny silk. The home’s combination of grand scale and an intimate soul make it a modern classic.
KELLY CLARKSON’S WATERFRONT ESTATE
Web ID: VGRZ88
Singer Kelly Clarkson is parting ways with her Tennessee lakefront mansion. Clarkson, who was the first winner of “American Idol” and has gone on to sell over 25 million albums, bought the four-acre property in Hendersonville in 2012 and extensively remodeled the home. The seven-bedroom house overlooking Old Hickory Lake combines elegantly chic formal spaces with casual living areas including a downstairs cowboy bar with saddle-shaped stools. The grounds include a pool house, playground, and English garden. Clarkson and her family are building a farmhouse outside of Nashville.
Web ID: HANV88
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HARRY CONNICK JR.’S HISTORIC CONNECTICUT HOME Perched on a hill in New Canaan, Connecticut stands singer/songwriter Harry Connick Jr.’s rustic estate. Connick and his wife, former model Jill Goodacre have lived in the home for nearly 20 years and raised their three daughters there. Once part of a dairy farm built in the 1890s, the 11,600-square-foot main house hosts seven spacious bedrooms and six full and two half baths. The kitchen, family room and library were all remodeled with reclaimed chestnut from the home’s original structure. In addition to the main structure, the 4.61-acre estate also has two additional barns on the property, currently used as a recording studio and gym facility.
FORMER LIVE NATION CHAIRMAN’S KEY BISCAYNE ESTATE
Web ID: OMOD88
Buena Vista, a private, tropical Key Biscayne compound is owned by the legendary concert promoter, theatrical producer and former Live Nation chairman, Michael Cohl. Cohl’s nine-bedroom, 12,520-square- foot main house sits on more than 62,000 square feet on the Harbor Drive peninsula and has 720 feet of waterfront. The spectacular tropical hideaway of this Canadian Music Hall of Fame member has the luxurious feel of a five-star resort. Some of the property’s impressive features include a one-bedroom Caribbean-style cabana house, a 16- seat private theater and fitness center building, tennis/basketball court, pool and spa, private beach, and two docks to accommodate a sport fishing boat and a yacht.
Web ID: GTST88
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