New York, New York | Michael Bolla, Sotheby’s International Realty – East Side Manhattan Brokerage

We constantly receive advice on how we could be happier—cleanses, retreats, mindfulness—but according to industrial designer and author Ingrid Fetell Lee, the secret ingredients of joy may be found in our surroundings.

Lee has built a career studying the science of joy, and how everyday surroundings can engage us in ways that influence our emotional well-being. That’s the subject of her bestselling book Joyful: The Surprising Power of Ordinary Things to Create Extraordinary Happiness.

Her journey started with simple curiosity while studying for her Master’s in Industrial Design at the Pratt Institute. “I really didn’t set out to study joy at all,” she says. “I had always thought of it as an intangible feeling—the idea that tangible objects could lift our emotions was confusing me. I started to ask professors to explain how things could bring a feeling of joy, and they couldn’t answer. That began the journey: if joy could be designed, then how?”

Lee has gone on to answer that question through her practice, and in the past decade, her knowledge has been sought out by brands from Condé Nast to Kate Spade. How can Lee help homeowners intentionally imbue a sense of joy into their spaces? Here are a few of her discoveries.

Define Happiness for Yourself

Palm Beach, Florida | Jeff Cloninger & Ridgely Foster, Sotheby’s International Realty – Palm Beach Brokerage

“I start by asking people, ‘How do you want your space to feel? How do you want to feel when you walk in the door? What kind of life do you want to live in this space?’” says Lee. Joy, after all, is a subjective state: it’s a little different for everyone.

Lee has identified ten “aesthetics of joy” that can infuse any designed environment with positivity, albeit in different ways. Take energy, for example: the energy aesthetic harnesses bold, bright colors to enliven your space with warmth and excitement. The abundance aesthetic, in contrast, brings together prints and patterns, blankets and pillows, to create a space that embraces you with plenty. Both are sensorial experiences that express joy through design, but they don’t work the same way.

Tune Into Your Inner Child

Palm Beach, Florida | Cristina Condon, Sotheby’s International Realty – Palm Beach Brokerage

Have you ever found yourself completely spellbound by the simple act of blowing bubbles on a sunny day, or been entranced by the decadent circular cakes in your local bakery? Your response to these things is subconscious—and it’s largely driven by geometry.

“It turns out that the amygdala—a part of your brain associated with fear—activates when you look at angular shapes,” explains Lee. “When we have a space with more curves, it feels more joyful and it puts our unconscious minds at ease.” The round objects we fixate on as children—from cookies and balloons to hula hoops and carousels—naturally resonate with us on an unconscious level.

It’s a similar story with symmetry. “There’s a study out of the University of Chicago, where they had half the subjects take a math test while exposed to pictures of very odd, asymmetrical spaces. The other half looked at symmetrical spaces that were neat orderly.” When given the opportunity to grade their own work, the first group were more likely to cheat when marking their tests.

Even though everyone from small children to adults can sense that curved shapes and balanced environments are emotionally satisfying, we live in an overwhelmingly rectilinear world. So what can we do about it when designing our living spaces?

“Furnishings are one way to do it,” says Lee. “If you can get a round coffee table, that changes the way a living room feels. Lighting fixtures are a great solution because there are so many beautiful round bulbs and shades. And you can solve angles through renovations if you have the budget: a curved wall or arches are another way to create roundness. Adding a porthole or circular window is a very playful way to embrace shape as well.”

Rethink Conventional Color

New York, New York | Michael Bolla, Sotheby’s International Realty – East Side Manhattan Brokerage

As with the study of shapes, watching how children use color can help us better understand the unconscious, elemental experiences that make us happy. Lee encourages people to think beyond the basic associations of chromotherapy—red as passionate, blue as calm—and pay attention to the nuances of saturation and light.

“It’s less about which hue you choose, and more about how bright and vibrant the colors are,” she says. “You can have a really invigorating space where all the color comes from a natural element, such as plants, so there’s no neon but it still feels joyful. It’s more about having a palette to work with.”

Designing for joy, it turns out, is quite a subconscious process; people simply need to follow their instincts and intuitions. For instance, Lee points to the popularity of hyper-minimalist spaces, whose success is mostly a cultural phenomenon, not a natural one.

“If you imagine our ancestors trying to choose where to settle, if they saw a lush forest to the left and desert to the right, it’s obvious which way they’re going to turn—they’re going to choose the lush forest. Some people do want a minimalist environment, but in general, research suggests we’re more productive when our spaces are not totally bare, and have at least some plants and art.”

You Only Need to Impress You

Johannesburg, South Africa | Wayne Brownhill, Lew Geffen Sotheby’s International Realty

Many luxury homes have all the building blocks for joy—spacious layouts, high ceilings, great lighting, outdoor areas, gorgeous views—and yet their interiors, however magazine-worthy, are stark and grey.

“When you look at the luxury market, the focus is on sophistication, not on joy,” notes Lee. “I think the reason for this is that we tend to associate joy with childhood—bright colors, sumptuous curves, abundant textures—we see those things as joyful, and we forget that they can also be sophisticated.”

Homeowners frequently ask Lee how they can incorporate joyful aesthetics on a budget—so it’s exciting to think about what can be done in luxury homes to support the psychological and physiological well-being of residents and guests. Lee encourages homeowners to take a step back and rethink the entire design process.

“Designers like to start with style: they ask questions about modern or traditional, minimalist or maximalist—and while those questions can help, I think it’s starting in the wrong place,” she says. “They’re trying to find an externally defined idea of what is good. I want to help people see what feels good to them.”

Take joyful color inspiration from cities like Hong Kong and Marrakesh, and make your next home a happy one.

Whether elegantly ornamental or crisp, clean, and contemporary, these striking curvaceous stairways are fascinating focal points, as thoughtfully designed as the homes they anchor.

Woolworth Tower Pavilion Residence

New York, New York | Stan Ponte, Joshua Judge & Tate Kelly, Sotheby’s International Realty – East Side Manhattan Brokerage

Occupying the entire 29^th floor of the iconic landmarked Woolworth Tower, this rarefied condominium home welcomes both luxurious day-to-day living and the grandest of entertaining. Spanning an impressive 6,711 square feet, it exemplifies impeccable attention to detail and a perfect sense of proportion, with soaring 22-foot ceilings, five bedrooms, a skylit professional-caliber kitchen, and great room with a spiral staircase rising to an airy mezzanine. Plentiful windows and two terraces capture enviable views of the Manhattan skyline.

Grand Greenwich Getaway

Greenwich, Connecticut | Tracey Koorbusch, Sotheby’s International Realty – Greenwich Brokerage

Minutes from town, this grand 7,570-square-foot residence blends modern sophistication and casual comfort. The impressive elegance begins in the triple-height foyer, where a sweeping staircase with a dramatic decorative railing connects all three levels. Primary living and entertaining spaces are linked in an open flow, and the walk-out ground level includes a media, game, and recreation room with space for a bar. A second-floor balcony and two covered porches overlook the lush grounds.

Memorial-Area Manor

Houston, Texas | Walter Bering, Martha Turner Sotheby’s International Realty – Central Houston Brokerage

On a 2.13-acre wooded lot at the end of a cul-de-sac in a prestigious Houston location, this majestic neoclassical home features grand interiors filled with light and magnificent architectural detail. The main level—with its formal living and dining rooms, bar, and kitchen—is linked with the upper-level private quarters by a free-standing circular staircase. The lower level offers a climate-controlled wine cellar and a gym or recreation room. Alluring outdoor spaces include a summer kitchen, a pool and spa, and a cabana.

Maison à l’Orange

St. Helena, California | Ginger Martin, Sotheby’s International Realty – Wine Country – East Napa Street Brokerage

Recalling a getaway in the French countryside, this two-bedroom pied-à-terre enjoys a desirable location in St Helena. Beyond a stalwart façade of local stone are an open living space with a soaring ceiling and a wood-burning fireplace, a restful guest bedroom secluded behind French doors, and at the top of a graceful spiraling staircase, a lofty master retreat. Alfresco living, dining, and entertaining amid orange and walnut trees and manicured hedges is a delight. The fenced property also includes a freestanding art studio.

New Luxury on Nob Hill

San Francisco, California | Mary Lou Castellanos, Sotheby’s International Realty – San Francisco Brokerage

A remarkable re-creation of a Nob Hill residence dating to the early 20th century, this four-level, four-bedroom masterwork epitomizes chic yet comfortable contemporary style, boasting the highest-quality finishes and fixtures as well as every technological feature expected in a home of this caliber and in this city. An elevator conveniently connects each of the home’s four levels, as does its dramatic heart, a stunning sculptural staircase that begins its upward spiral in the foyer.

Classical Meets Contemporary

Greenwich, Connecticut | Steve Archino, Sotheby’s International Realty – Greenwich Brokerage

Impeccably renovated, this Georgian estate on a private guard-gated road combines classical symmetry with sleek, sophisticated contemporary style. Highlights include formal living and dining rooms, a study, a chef’s kitchen, a ground-floor master suite, a recreation room, a gym and sauna, and a wine room. An elegant sweeping staircase leads from the entrance hall to three spacious bedroom suites on the second floor. The four-acre grounds offer a refreshing swimming pool, a tennis court, and a pool and tennis house.

Cotswold-Inspired Cottage in Carmel

Carmel, California | Mike Jashinski, Sotheby’s International Realty – Carmel Rancho Brokerage

Inspired by the cottages of the Cotswold, this whimsical home at the southern end of Carmel Beach is surrounded by cypress trees and enjoys views of the Pebble Beach golf course, sunsets, and the ocean. From the main floor—where living spaces feature high pitched ceilings, a fireplace, and handsome wood floors—a staircase winds to the upper levels and two serene bedrooms, including a master suite with its own balcony, glass-enclosed shower, and jetted soaking tub.

From striking staircases to decadent baths and beyond, find your inspiration only on sothebysrealty.com

Mississauga, Ontario, Canada | Robert Bourelle & Catherine Bourelle, Sotheby’s International Realty Canada

It’s often said that you only get one chance to make a first impression. Thankfully, there are many ways to impress when it comes to designing a compelling entryway. The first thing visitors see when they step inside your home, an inviting entry can set the tone for the rest of your décor and establish your aesthetic at a glance. Let these six elegant properties inspire your own grand entrance and make that first impression one worth capturing for posterity.

Contemporary Elegance in North Carolina

Wilmington, North Carolina | Nick Phillips, Landmark Sotheby’s International Realty

This waterfront oasis in Wilmington, North Carolina boasts a stone-lined entryway that guides guests into the house and beyond. A covered passageway leads to a tranquil outdoor retreat that features a swimming pool, fire pit, and a poolside kitchen and bar. The only thing more breathtaking than this fully outfitted outdoor entertaining area is the view of Masonboro Island and the Atlantic Ocean close at hand. Snap a photo from one of the home’s terraces, or consider the view through floor-to-ceiling windows that welcome outside in.

Stately Presence in Paris

Paris, France | Fabrice le Ruyet, Propriétés Parisiennes Sotheby’s International Realty

In the heart of the 7th arrondissement is a refined residence that embodies classic Parisian style. Past the cobblestone courtyard lies a sumptuous 19th-century interior complemented by thoroughly modern amenities. The home includes a cinema room, a spacious professional kitchen, and a gym complete with sauna and steam room, but it’s the rich carpeting, sparkling chandeliers, and textured wall finishings of the entryway that make this property the epitome of luxury and worthy of an Instagram feed.

Rooms With a View in Florida

Miami Beach, Florida | Mirce Curkoski & Albert Justo, ONE Sotheby’s International Realty

The moment you step into this home on gated Palm Island, you are greeted with breathtaking water views. But first, traverse the flagstone walk and enjoy the shifting shade of the palms as you are welcomed into a home that understands scale. The interior hall is an airy, two-story cathedral of stone and glass, where the bright surfaces mirror the glimmer of the bay outside. This fully-automated smart home offers options for dining and lounging inside and out, so that no matter the weather, comfort can be found in sight of the sea.

An Entrance With Impact in Dubai

Dubai, United Arab Emirates | Lana Gorbach, Gulf Sotheby’s International Realty

This lavish Dubai home is likely to cause a stir the moment your guests cross the threshold. An arched window frames the home’s carved wooden doors, while ornately patterned floors and torch-inspired wall detailing complete the magnificent entryway. Located in the prestigious Emirates Hills, this estate home overlooks landscaped gardens, as well as the nearby lake and golf course.

A Poised Penthouse in New York

New York, New York | Meredyth Hull Smith & Serena Boardman, Sotheby’s International Realty – East Side Manhattan Brokerage

New York City has no shortage of glamorous homes, and this Park Avenue penthouse is no exception. A private elevator brings visitors into a sunlit entryway, where 12-foot ceilings, parquet floors, and a sweeping staircase await. Guests venturing further in will find a handsome library with a wood-burning fireplace and wet bar, a well-appointed living room, and views of Central Park and the famous Manhattan skyline. A landscaped terrace encircles the second floor, while the rooftop terrace offers charming seating nooks for photographers looking to stay a while.

Country Elegance in Connecticut

Greenwich, Connecticut | Helene Barre, Sotheby’s International Realty – Greenwich Brokerage

Down a tree-lined drive on the cusp of a formal courtyard, this one-of-a-kind gated estate offers the ultimate in privacy and serenity. The manor’s exterior is adorned in classic brick and limestone in the Georgian style, giving way to light-filled interiors and a tiled reception area that will satisfy any follower of the hashtag #ihavethisthingwithfloors. Beyond the winding staircase and elevated country details are spacious family rooms and yards of decorative millwork. The ideal venue for sport, the home offers a professionally equipped gym and a regulation indoor tennis court. And with two spacious guest dwellings, you’re unlikely to ever lack a willing partner for doubles.

Whether traditional or contemporary, sparsely furnished or adorned with art, a well-considered entryway offers a first glimpse of your home’s character and style. Welcome guests—and yourself—with a first impression that delights the eye.

Looking for more Instagram-worthy décor? See how interior designer Kelly Taylor brings a room together, and browse these luxury designer homes.

This content was curated by Sotheby’s International Realty’s Extraordinary Living Blog under the title Making a Grand Entrance | 6 Instagrammable Entryways

Marc Jacobs’ contributions to the design world are many – and as of late, he has been very busy. In April, the cultural icon and his husband put their New York townhome up for sale; in September, pieces of his incredible art collection was part of a Sotheby’s Hong Kong auction; and just last week, he sat down with Sotheby’s Amy Cappellazzo to discuss how his relationships and the places he’s visited have shaped his personal tastes. As Jacobs prepares for his new Frank Lloyd Wright home, let’s explore his stylish former West Village townhome.

Urban Zen

West Village, New York | Sotheby’s International Realty – Downtown Manhattan Brokerage

On a tree-lined block in the West Village, this four-story townhouse offers 4,346 square feet of living and entertaining space, three peaceful bedroom suites, a garden courtyard, and an enviable rooftop terrace. Commissioned by a world-renowned fashion designer as his private residence, it was designed by the internationally esteemed architectural firm of Robert A. M. Stern and is part of the Superior Ink condominium complex, which offers such amenities as a 24-hour doorman and concierge, a gym, a screening room, a catering kitchen, a garage, and storage space.

The highlight of the main level is a sophisticated oak-paneled living room. This chic space flows effortlessly through a wall of glass doors to an ivy-draped courtyard perfect for quiet relaxation amid greenery and sculpture. Also located on this level are a discreet study and a kitchenette for keeping kosher. The living and dining room on the parlor level is a convivial space warmed by a wood-burning fireplace with an ornate mica mantel. Just outside three French doors is a tranquil terrace with a spiral staircase winding to the courtyard below. Adjoining the dining area is an impeccably outfitted and light-filled kitchen, which boasts Bulthaup cabinets, faucets from Dornbracht, and Miele appliances.

The home’s private quarters are secluded on the two uppermost levels, accessible via the main stairway or an elevator. The master suite occupies an entire floor and includes a spacious bedroom with plentiful windows and art walls, a mahogany dressing room and closet, and a magnificent bath finished in Emperador Light marble. Among the bath’s eye-catching elements are a relaxing soaking tub, a striking vintage Eugène Printzceiling light, a refreshing rain shower, two vanities, and bespoke fixtures from Waterworks. Located on the fourth floor, the two generous guest suites combine comfort with classic elegance, and each includes a refined travertine-clad bath.

High above the picturesque streets of the West Village, the enchanting rooftop terrace is a delightful aerie with lush landscaping designed by the Brooklyn-based firm Harrison Green. It includes a trellis-topped dining area, room for alfresco lounging and entertaining, and a built-in summer kitchen with a grill and a refrigerator.

From Prince’s purple driveway in Turks and Caicos to Shaq’s Florida escape, discover homes from around the world with a notable past

Ask a luxury agent about their most memorable real estate experience, and they’ll likely tell you about one of the extraordinary residences they’ve had the opportunity to sell. Such exclusive homes rarely come on the market, and when they happen to make an appearance, it’s the lucky few who walk through their halls. Here are five highly unique properties that Sotheby’s International Realty agents are particularly excited about.

A Spectacular Ranch Near Kremmling, Colorado

Jack Wolfe, LIV Sotheby’s International Realty

When it comes to lodges with mountain views this retreat in rural Colorado handily exceeds expectations. The property features a master suite with wood-burning fireplace, two guesthouses for visitors, and a private bowling alley. Set against a backdrop of breathtaking mountains, the property is connected by picturesque bridges that follow creeks, ponds, and waterfalls across its lush valley landscape. “The Homeowner’s Association maintains a master grazing lease on the greater ranch area,” notes Jack Wolfe, with LIV Sotheby’s International Realty. “This provides landowners the opportunity to run cattle on their property, maintaining agricultural status—with the related favorable property tax rates. The acreage is also the perfect setting for hiking, horseback riding, hunting, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling.”

A Different Kind of Dreamboat in Amsterdam, the Netherlands

Amsterdam Sotheby’s International Realty

A residence on the romantic Amstel River seems almost like a fairytale, but this dramatic floating houseboat makes it a reality. “Named De Friese Franje, this dreamboat is situated at a prominent place in front of the Stopera in the center of Amsterdam,” says Jocelyn Kotvis of Amsterdam Sotheby’s International Realty. “It puts you right in the middle of the city, while still being apart from it.” In what other home does a former wheelhouse serve as a living room with views out over the water to the historic Dutch capital? Renovated by notable design firm Amsterdam Kromhoutwerf, the houseboat’s state-of-the-art kitchen and two bedrooms will make any land lover feel comfortable at sea.

A Cultural Artefact in Sydney, Australia

Michael Pallier, Sydney Sotheby’s International Realty

Few homes can truly be classified as fine art, but this circular property in New South Wales certainly qualifies. “It’s known as Oculus,” says Michael Pallier of Sydney Sotheby’s International Realty. “It was originally Frank Fox house, a masterpiece of 1960s modernism that was recognized at the NSW Australian Institute of Architecture Awards. But the most recent owners brought together a team of internationally acclaimed architects, interior designers, and landscapers to breathe new life into it.” The result is a domed gallery of striking geometries and curving, retractable glass, guaranteeing that visitors to Oculus can appreciate the sun-soaked panorama of the pool and gardens.

A Refined Spanish Colonial in Dallas, Texas

Faisal Halum, Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty

“Exemplary” and “timeless” are just two of the laudatory words used by leading architects and critics to describe this art showcase in Dallas, Texas. Like the masterful Oculus in Sydney, this mansion was conceived with the highest artistic aspirations in mind, but instead of being the artwork, this home was built by acclaimed architect Edward Larrabee Barnes—the same Larrabee Barnes who designed the Dallas Museum of Art—in order to display artwork. “The entry to the main living area is one of the most breathtaking in Dallas,” says Faisal Halum with Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty. “The grounds are also extraordinary. The property unfolds beautifully, and certainly surprises at every turn.”

An Island With History Near New York City, New York

Patti Anderson, Julia B. Fee Sotheby’s International Realty

Nothing suggests luxury living like a private island, but real estate of this caliber is more traditionally found in the tropics—not on the outskirts of New York City. Columbia Island is an exception in every way. It has a storied history: originally known as Little Pea Island, the land was purchased by Columbia Broadcasting Studios—CBS—in 1941 for the site of a new radio tower. Soon after, Mary Healy and Peter Lind Hayes, mid-century Hollywood and Vaudeville celebrities, made the newly minted Columbia Island their home, and would broadcast their breakfast radio show from their own property. Today, no one is listening in on the island; its seclusion is one of its selling points. “The property is completely self-sustaining,” says Patricia Anderson with Julia B. Fee Sotheby’s International Realty. “All the floors have radiant heat. It has a reverse osmosis desalination system which turns the sea water to fresh water. It has solar panels that provide energy for the entire home, and there are two diesel generators for backup.” Plus, the owner of Columbia Island also has access to neighboring Pea Island, a private five-acre nature preserve of native plants and sandy beaches.

There are homes that are truly in a league of their own, and even high-end markets have a select few listings that stand apart from the rest. These unconventional properties present an auspicious opportunity to take up residence in a home unlike any other.

Browse other unique listings to find the one-of-a-kind home to suit your tastes.

Flemish Brabant, Belgium | Dirk Hoebrechts,  Antwerp Sotheby’s International Realty

The living room is the heart of your home, and it’s also your most versatile space. While kitchens are for cooking, dining rooms are for eating, and bathrooms and bedrooms are self-explanatory, the living room is the only space dedicated entirely to relaxation and enjoyment—whether that’s decompressing with a good book or entertaining company.

Whatever your vision for your living room, the right color choice will help you make it a reality. Here are seven color trends we’re seeing in this year’s designs that can add current yet timeless appeal to your favorite haven.

Pale Pink

Greenwich, Connecticut | Amy Marisa Balducci, Sotheby’s International Realty – Greenwich Brokerage

Design enthusiasts will recall that earlier Pantone designated Living Coral the 2019 color of the year, officially putting the orange-pink on everyone’s list of trends to watch. Toning down Pantone’s enthusiasm are the slate of more muted pinks finding their way into living rooms lately, whether in plush armchairs or matte walls.

Pale pinks are striking a chord by contributing pops of warmth and vibrancy to spaces while remaining nearly neutral. Whites, beiges, and browns work beautifully enlivened with pastel blush. The understated softness and calm of faded pink can also serve as a balanced counterpoint to more audacious accents like bold patterns or heavy black.

Royal Blue

Dallas, Texas | Andrew Danna, Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty

Like faded pinks, soft blues are a favorite for lovers of neutral colors. Heathery blues go well with grays and blacks, as well as off-whites such as beige and taupe, adding a cool glamour to what would otherwise be a minimalist palette.

This year, however, we’re seeing royal blues making a statement in living rooms. These are dynamic, refined shades of azure that can be rich and jewel-bright, or as delicate as the sky just before evening. Choose a blue depending on whether you want your living room to be deeply immersive and intimate, or open, spacious, and chic.

Immersive Teal

Greenwich, Connecticut | Steve Archino, Sotheby’s International Realty – Greenwich Brokerage

Regal teals that mix blue and green are gaining popularity in living rooms this year as well. Teal encompasses a variegated spectrum, with aquatic cerulean tones on one end, and malachite and viridian on the other.

Brilliant peacock blue and hunter green are perfect examples of the many places teal can go. Peacock blue is at once classic and on-trend for living rooms, with a remarkable capacity to coordinate with neutrals or contrast with warmer accents such as orange, pink, and gold. Hunter greens with blue undertones are being used by designers to evoke the freshness of nature.

Far from the bright blue-greens of turquoise or robin’s egg, these darker shades help to both elevate and energize a living room with a sense of grandeur and dramatic flair. They add plenty of personality—one that is equal parts elegant and fun.

Verdant Green

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

As with teal, greens that conjure the freshness of vegetation are still trending this year, and they’re certainly not going anywhere. Among the colors of the visible spectrum, green is often cited as one that inspires feelings of relaxation and peace due to its similarity to the great outdoors—perfect for a living room.

There are two “garden variety” greens that are proving to be a top choice for living rooms this year. Olive green is a perennial favorite for walls and furnishings because it is both vivid and natural. Use it as an unostentatious complement to neutrals, millwork, and moldings, or make it a commanding statement. Mint green is also popular; it’s a paler option that goes well with other colors as both a natural shade and tasteful pastel.

Citrus Yellow

Mexico City, Mexico | Laura de la Torre de Skipsey & Jeanne Donnadieu, Mexico Sotheby’s International Realty

Orange is a color beloved for simulating sunshine and instilling an optimistic outlook, which is why it’s being chosen for living rooms this year. The trick comes in selecting a shade that’s not too brown nor too bright.

A muted yellow-orange strikes a happy medium. Use it to create a visual statement in a single area of your living room, or disperse it throughout the space with a color that contrasts. Peacock blue and mint green are two excellent partners for citrus tones.

Gray-Blues and Purples

New York, New York | Juliette R. Janssens, Allison B. Koffman, & Jacqueline Rohrbach, Sotheby’s International Realty – East Side Manhattan Brokerage

Some of the best tones for living rooms exist in the blue-violet region of the gray spectrum. The lighter end of this palette include pale, ethereal colors like periwinkle on the blue side and lavender on the purple.

Gray has a reputation for making spaces seem cool, but with the right mix, they can turn out to be quite warm and welcoming. Gray tones invoke a sense of creativity, serenity, and luxury, and mark your living room as a tranquil space where you can always seek sanctuary and peace of mind.

Statement Black

Mexico City, Mexico | Malusa de Nova & Carla Mendiburu de Cozzi, Mexico Sotheby’s International Realty

It should come as no surprise that black is a recurring trend in living rooms this year. If you tend towards neutral color schemes in your walls and furniture, you’ll likely find yourself relying on black for any bold, standout features.

Black is an excellent companion to a wide range of colors, which you can employ strategically to ensure your living room doesn’t become too dark. It can also help hide architectural elements you don’t want to draw attention to, depending on the layout of your walls or beams.

Ultimately, it’s called a living room for a reason: this is a place where you should feel fully alive and present, attuned to your surroundings and happy to just be. A good living room is invigorating, restorative, and revitalizing. Choose a trending color palette to let your living room live up to its name while indulging your senses and welcoming yourself home.

Delve deeper into trending colors with these summery kitchen shades and review these recommended tones for your next bathroom renovation.

This content was curated by Sotheby’s International Realty’s Extraordinary Living Blog under the title 7 Trending Colors for Living Rooms

It feels fitting for a musician like Martin Johnson—whose milieu is American rock and pop—to have settled here, in this modern cabin with a wide-open view of one of the  most iconic sights in the U.S., the Hollywood sign. Helmer of The Night Game and former frontman of Boys Like Girls, Johnson has also made career as a songwriter of multi-platinum songs. When he’s not touring, he retreats to this inviting haven, built in 1978 by award-winning architect Tony Ngai and updated to reflect a modern sensibility with hints of timeless Scandinavian style.

Los Angeles, California | Patricia Ruben, Sotheby’s International Realty – Los Feliz Brokerage

The interiors display an emphasis on clean lines, natural materials—including Swedish Kährs wood flooring and clear-cedar ceilings that mirror the home’s striking façade—and the maximization of natural light. This sort of warm modernism—relatable and appealing yet sophisticated—creates a deep-seated sense of comfort, furthered by such spaces as a cushioned “conversation pit” with a fireplace and a library with custom shelving and track ladder for accessing its upper reaches.

The charming and colorful Miele-outfitted kitchen features a cozy window seat and an adjoining dining area with doors to a balcony. Throughout, soaring ceilings contribute to an airy lightness, and oversized windows transform views of the surroundings into veritable works of art.

The home offers three restful bedrooms, four light-filled baths, and generous closet space—including a well-appointed room-size walk-in in the master suite. The master bath offers a soothing soaking tub, a relaxing steamshower, custom floating vanities, and—appropriately for the home of a musician—surround sound speakers.

Picture windows offer views of the enveloping canyons. The cabin’s enviable location—at the end of a cul-de-sac on a road less traveled—affords desirable privacy.

From a chic and modern cabin in Los Angeles to the castles of Ireland, discover incredible and unique luxury homes from around the world

Boon Hoe LEONG, List Sotheby’s International Realty 

From Marina Bay Sands to Merlion Park, Singapore’s architecture and iconography have become synonymous with life in a modern city. The city-state has emerged from its humble beginnings as a small fishing village to become a major economic player competing on the global stage—and a destination of choice for many of the world’s entrepreneurs and high-end homebuyers.

How did Singapore go from outpost to powerhouse? And how is it rising to the challenge of a modern digital age? Long before becoming the international city of the moment, Singapore laid the groundwork by investing in the technology and infrastructure now bringing its residents and visitors superlative quality of life.

Innovation-Friendly Infrastructure

Veniz KWONG, List Sotheby’s International Realty 

With a GDP per capita of U.S. $60,000, Singapore is one of the strongest economies in the world. And when it comes to cities maximizing their efficiency through innovation, Singapore tops the list. A business-friendly government crafting forward-thinking policies has brought Singapore to its current status: the city-state is not afraid of being an early adopter of technology and innovation. In fact, Singapore is ranked number one in the AI readiness index. But what does an openness to technology offer to those looking to work and live in Singapore?

Silicon Valley takes most of the attention in the world of tech startups. But Singapore’s early and extensive adoption of high-speed internet is providing competition, and smart business people are now turning towards Singapore as the number one place for startups. The city-state is ranked as number one in 4G mobile broadband speed and in the top 20 for 4G availability out of the 88 countries surveyed by mobile analytics firm Opensignal. With an extensive and fast digital network in place, ready for businesses to tap into, Singapore is catching the eye of some of the top companies in the world.

Beyond digital infrastructure, Singapore is also investing in physical infrastructure to make life easier for businesses. Punggol Digital District is Singapore’s first enterprise district, a well-connected and green neighborhood that provides working space for tech companies and educational institutions. The district is planned to run on the technologies that make life easier, including a smart energy grid, pneumatic waste collection, and a centralized cooling system. Projects like this one are set to drive urban development into the future.

Day-to-Day Convenience

Veniz KWONG, List Sotheby’s International Realty 

And Singapore hasn’t only made life comfortable for its entrepreneurs. It’s made accessibility a priority, and has optimized travel for all citizens.

Recently ranked number one out of 24 major cities, Singapore’s transit system stands ready to transport travelers between the city-state’s many attractions. The use of drones and predictive artificial intelligence to identify maintenance needs and avoid delays is one example of how Singapore is testing out technology to keep its transit system up and running, and the city has invested in the early stages of autonomous vehicles. With service stations and energy providers adding charging ports across the city, Singapore is on its way to becoming more electric vehicle friendly—good news for eco-minded motorists.

The city is also imminently walkable, meaning that much of the sights can be taken in on foot. To combat the warmer days and fend off tropical storms, Singapore’s many high-rise buildings are increasingly connected with air conditioned underground passageways that link up shopping and tourist destinations out of the way of inclement weather. And stepping out of the heat is easy in any of the city’s modern builds: condominiums like the distinguished Leed Residence or the waterfront Reflections at Keppel Bay offer natural trails, fitness centers, and lap pools that easily match the activity to the season.

Optimized for Sustainability

Simon WONG, List Sotheby’s International Realty 

While cities throughout the world are striving to adopt technologies to earn smart city status, Singapore has gone beyond this approach to comprehensively adopt technologies that work for citizens and visitors alike, becoming a truly smart nation in the process. Autonomous shuttle buses are already transporting passengers and the government-backed e-payment system allows customers to use their phones to pay for everything from a delicious stall meal to a luxury purchase. With these smart systems already in place, Singapore has indicated its intention to continue prioritizing sustainability and convenience, which is good news for buyers looking to make the city a permanent home.

Thanks to a mix of policy and innovation, Singapore has created an ideal environment for both work and recreation. For the technologies of the moment and the city of the future, look no further than Southeast Asia’s island city-state.

Read more on what makes Singapore the city of the future, and see which Singaporean property might suit you best.

This content was curated by Sotheby’s International Realty’s Extraordinary Living Blog under the title The Technological Advancements Making Singapore a Global Hotspot

From a Manhattan penthouse to a Mediterranean-style retreat in a legendary golf community, these open-plan entertaining spaces make guests and hosts feel at ease with their welcoming layouts, stylish finishes, and effortless flow.

Platinum Penthouse

New York, New York | Philip McCarthy & Joshua Judge, Sotheby’s International Realty – Downtown Manhattan Brokerage

This magnificent four-bedroom triplex penthouse in the Platinum building was designed for grand-scale entertaining and relaxed day-to-day living. Its focal point is a stunning corner great room with soaring 25-foot ceilings, walls of windows, a fireplace, access to a lengthy terrace, and wide open views of the Hudson River, sunsets, the city skyline, and the lights of Broadway. Two kitchens accommodate daily meals and catered feasts. The home has also been outfitted with the highest-end finishes and modern amenities, including a Control4 home automation system.

History Meets Luxury in Union Square

New York, New York | Mara Flash Blum & Kaptan Unugur, Sotheby’s International Realty – Downtown Manhattan Brokerage

At the crossroads of the Flatiron district and Greenwich Village, this luxurious condominium home in the former Tiffany headquarters consists of two apartments that blend timeless architecture with modern amenities. The primary residence offers three bedrooms, a Crestron smart home system, and an open-plan living and entertaining space with 16-foot ceilings, original arched windows, and chef’s kitchen featuring a Sub-Zero refrigerator, a wine cooler, a Miele espresso machine, a six- burner Viking range with a griddle, and a Calacatta marble island.

Wyandanch House

Southampton, New York | Harald Grant & Bruce Grant, Sotheby’s International Realty – Southampton Brokerage

Spaciously airy and filled with the lovely light for which the Hamptons are renowned, this approximately 14,000-square-foot home is a stylish haven designed for effortless living and sophisticated entertaining, all just a short walk from the beach and the shops of the village. Warmed by two fireplaces, the formal living and dining room features stone tile floors, a cathedral ceiling, plentiful windows, and French doors opening to a spacious brick patio and the estate’s glorious grounds.

Round Hill Manor

Greenwich, Connecticut | Bill Andruss, Joseph Barbieri & Leslie McElwreath | Sotheby’s International Realty – Greenwich Brokerage

Perched on the crest of a stunning plateau in Greenwich, Round Hill Manor was built in 1916 and is widely regarded as one of the greatest estates in its revered community. The residence spans 17,603 square feet filled with exceptional quality and a timeless character. The generous public spaces—a stylish living room adjoined by a library and a loggia, an august dining room, and an inviting chef’s kitchen—are appointed with exquisite detailing and allow for consummate elegant entertaining.

Ocean View Estate in Pebble Beach

Pebble Beach, California | Michael Canning, Nicholas Canning, Jessica Canning, Brian Keck, Ellen Krausse & Natalie Pitschke, Sotheby’s International Realty – Carmel Rancho Brokerage

A thoughtful 2012 renovation of this Mediterranean-inspired home afforded open living spaces, expanded the ocean-view terrace, and added eye-catching architectural detail. The heart of the home is a chef’s kitchen that flows to the family room, living room, and dining room in a configuration perfect for entertaining. Further encouraging festive gatherings are a private patio, a relaxed space with a wet bar and golf simulator, and a temperature-controlled 1,100-bottle wine cellar.

Modern Seaside Charm

New Seabury, Massachusetts | Donna Christopher & Jackie Bartolomei, Sotheby’s International Realty – Osterville Brokerage

Near the seaside in Nantucket, this new custom-built Gambrel-style home enjoys lovely views of the sound. In addition to five bedrooms and a finished lower level with an auxiliary kitchen, the 4,466-square-foot residence features an open floor plan with a light-filled living, dining, and kitchen area linked in an easy flow that makes it ideal for entertaining. A deck and a pool surrounded by a sunny patio encourage taking warm-weather festivities outdoors.

Inspired by these incredible homes? Take it one step further and discover the home style meant for you by taking our quiz

View of Brooklyn Bridge and the Manhattan skyline, photo courtesy of oneinchpunch / Shutterstock Inc

It takes more than beautiful architecture and a thriving cultural scene to make cities livable in this day and age. In order to support sustainability and to attract investors and creative urbanites alike, the world’s cities are making themselves smarter. Today’s top cities integrate technologically-enriched infrastructure, environmental initiatives, people-focused urban planning, and advanced transit systems to earn the title of smart city.

Coming out on top in the effort to innovate are cities like Singapore, New York, Barcelona, Auckland, and Amsterdam. Here are a few ways in which these cities are setting examples globally for smart urban living, as well as homes that reflect these aspirations.

Singapore

Simon WONG, List Sotheby’s International Realty

Paving the way for smart city planning, Singapore has long been considered a leader in innovation due to the city-state’s policies on transit, healthcare, and infrastructural implementations. Encouraging its citizens to take advantage of the wealth of rideshare programs, Singapore has significantly cut back on road congestion. With readily available bike share programs as well as a popular electric vehicle sharing program, Singapore is setting a precedent for more humane and environmentally conscious transit systems.

Striking a balance between these contemporary concerns and place-based design, Singapore’s homes also feature feats of ingenuity. This stunning bungalow, part of the exclusive and upscale Sentosa Cove homes on Singapore’s Treasure Island, is no exception. One of just 19 villas on the Cove, this home puts luxurious living first. Sleek, modern interiors outfitted with top-of-the-line fixtures and technologically advanced appliances complement the home’s breathtaking setting. Outside, a private pool and jacuzzi seems to meld into the South China Sea, allowing residents to take in the city’s natural beauty.

New York

Olga Reindlova ”Neulist” & Gina M. Kuhlenkamp, Sotheby’s International Realty – East Side Manhattan Brokerage

While known for its dynamism and Old-World charm, New York is also top-ranking among the world’s smartest cities. Tasked with not only maintaining but also improving a crumbling infrastructure and densely populated city system, engineers in NYC have gone above and beyond to carry out efforts to make the city smarter. Initiatives include water and energy conservation, air quality monitoring, and smart waste management. The Accelerated Conservation and Efficiency program, launched in 2013, has worked to conserve energy through LED lighting retrofits, while the installation of Automated Meter Reading systems allows the city to better track its water usage.

Find your place amongst the city of nine million people at this unique carriage house in Chelsea. The center of the arts scene in one of the world’s top art cities, this charming carriage house provides residents with their own space to unwind and recharge after a day of gallery hopping and perusing the nearby Chelsea Market. Built at the turn of the century, the home has four stories, a dramatic living room with 16-foot ceilings, a garage, and a private garden and terrace. Notable modern updates include a finished cellar with a gym room, sauna, and artist’s studio. Double-pane windows, central air, and other energy-efficient fixtures bring this architectural gem firmly into the 21st century.

Barcelona

Barcelona & Costa Brava Sotheby’s International Realty

Like other major global cities, Barcelona has seen the potential for smarter technological solutions for common urban problems. A tech-hub in its own right, Barcelona’s innovations have included replacing street lights with LED lighting systems, reducing the city’s energy output, and implementing smart waste disposal systems. These smart bins use a vacuum system to pull waste below ground, where it is later incinerated and turned back into energy. In step with other smart cities, Barcelona also offers a bike share system for its residents, reducing the number of cars on the roads.

Preserving the unique history of the city while also taking into consideration more modern living solutions, this Vallvidrera villa is ideally suited to smart city life. With its historical touches augmented with quality upgrades, the property is a compelling balance of style and function. Multiple terraces and gardens surround the noucentista-style home, which also boasts a swimming pool, outdoor dining area, and wine cellar.

Auckland

Kurt Piper & Prudence Foster, New Zealand Sotheby’s International Realty

With a vision to become the world’s most livable city, Auckland has long been developing new ways of improving the life of its citizens and reducing its environmental impact. Their KITE Smart City Platform collects data on energy consumption, waste management, parking, and other infrastructural issues in order to highlight new opportunities for optimization. In addition, the city has installed “smart grids” which use sensors to improve energy performance, and their SmartHealth program connects rural residents with healthcare professionals—all initiatives that stand to make city life more convenient and sustainable for Auckland residents.

Elevate your living standards to align with Auckland’s aspirations in this contemporary sea-view home, located on 0.3 acres of freehold land. This seven-year-old modern oasis features four bedrooms, two and a half bathrooms, and multiple living spaces. Designed by the award-winning architect Mark McLeay, this home follows in the tradition of Scandinavian minimalism and sustainable functionality. With the Pacific Ocean and three sandy beaches nearby, as well as cafés and restaurants an easy distance away, the home’s setting is the perfect accompaniment to its thoughtful design and livable interiors.

Amsterdam

Amsterdam Sotheby’s International Realty

One of the earliest adopters of the smart city movement in Europe, Amsterdam has been approaching urban planning with the future in mind for over a decade. Famous for its cycling-centric transportation system, the capital city of the Netherlands also approaches change holistically: government, businesses, education, and living conditions are all components Amsterdam is attempting to address. The Amsterdam City Data project, an open database, was launched after the city identified a need to collect data on everything from healthcare to topographical details to traffic patterns. City governors have been able to launch various projects in response to the data collected: Smart Flow, a parking management platform, helps reduce the traffic congestion caused by those seeking parking, while a circular economy initiative aims to reuse resources as many times as possible, cutting back on waste and creating jobs in the process.

Take up residence in Amsterdam in this regal apartment in the prestigious Prins Hendrik Residence. This chic home features a terrace and private garden, as well as a guest room with separate entrance, two multi-purpose garden houses, and three parking spaces. In addition to its stylish interiors and all the modern amenities expected of a luxury apartment, this home is also centrally located in the walkable Willemspark neighborhood.

The key to making urban centers desirable and progressive is blending technological advancements into the fabric of a city’s existing history and infrastructure. These global cities are blazing the way for better urban living, encouraging us all to be a bit smarter about where and how we live.

For more smart inspiration, review the five eco-friendly updates to incorporate into your next renovation.

This content was curated by Sotheby’s International Realty’s Extraordinary Living Blog under the title 5 Homes in the World’s Top Smart Cities