Jill Levy – Golden Gate Sotheby’s International Realty

While glass-walled apartments and park-facing penthouses have traditionally defined modern luxury, a new trend is emerging in high-end real estate: the modern farmhouse.

From rolling hills to sprawling fields, these homes are inspired by tradition and designed to blend back-to-the-land simplicity with contemporary comforts. Don’t be fooled by their humble monikers—these farmhouses are anything but rustic.

Tuscany, Where Time Stands Still

Eleonora Benetti – Italy Sotheby’s International Realty

This year, the fair’s curatorial director, Anna Carnick, has chosen the theme “Where We Stand,” focusing on how design engages with global issues. More than 40 exhibitors have responded by bringing objects and projects that celebrate ideas of place, community, heritage, and the power of shared roots and interconnectivity. Here are the top five stands to look out for at Design Miami 2023.

Country living gets a luxurious upgrade in the picturesque region of Tuscany, Italy. Here, rows of vineyards heavy with plump, sun-ripened grapes dip and flow like gentle waves in the warm wind.

At the heart of every Tuscan countryside is a centuries-old farmhouse, its terracotta roof tiles glistening in the golden sunlight. Adorned with trailing bougainvillea and surrounded by towering cypress trees, these homes are the epitome of rustic elegance. The Via Grosseto Cinigiano is one such gem. Located on a hilltop in one of the most exclusive areas of Tuscany, this property spans 800 square meters, nestled within nearly three hectares of pristine land.

Eleonora Benetti – Italy Sotheby’s International Realty

Peek inside and you’re immediately transported back in time, thanks to the authentic restoration that has preserved the original charm of this ten-bedroom, twelve-bathroom estate. The attention to detail is evident in every room—from the Tuscan terracotta floors to the exposed stone walls.

Outside, the warm glow of Tuscan sunsets casts a spell over the saltwater pool, where you can soak up the stunning views of rolling hills and even catch a glimpse of the nearby island of Montecristo on clear days.

The property also features a private helipad, wine cellar, and 360-degree views of the surrounding countryside.

Napa’s Endless Vineyards

Jill Levy – Golden Gate Sotheby’s International Realty

Less than an hour’s drive from San Francisco, Napa Valley, known as the crown jewel of California’s wine country, offers a different kind of farm-style luxury.

Here, sprawling vineyards stretch across the valley, their meticulously manicured grapevines resembling a patchwork quilt. Reminiscent of an Ansel Adams masterpiece, rows of vines line the landscape as far as the eye can see.

It’s not just the vineyards that make Napa Valley a sought-after destination for luxury buyers. Architecturally stunning wineries punctuate the landscape, offering not just wine production but also tastings, tours, and gastronomic experiences.

Jill Levy – Golden Gate Sotheby’s International Realty

Nestled among these vineyards and wineries sits 2848 Monticello Road, a contemporary Mediterranean estate, reborn from the traditional farmhouses of the region. Designed by Michael Baushke at Apparatus Architecture and built by David Easton of Rammed Earth Works, the property spans 75 acres and features a two-acre Cabernet vineyard, solar-heated pool, Zen meditation pond, and hundreds of ancient olive trees.

Grounded in Greenwich

Martha Z. Jeffrey – Sotheby’s International Realty – Greenwich Brokerage

Sometimes, modern luxury is about stepping back and embracing a quieter, more peaceful pace. The affluent town of Greenwich, Connecticut, offers just that—a tranquil retreat with close proximity to New York City.

It’s not just the easy commute to Manhattan that makes Greenwich an attractive destination. Steeped in history, the town is home to picturesque Victorian homes and sprawling estates, many of which were inspired by the classic farmhouses of New England.

Martha Z. Jeffrey – Sotheby’s International Realty – Greenwich Brokerage

94 Pecksland Road is a prime example of this blend of old and new. Originally built in 1935, this farmhouse has undergone bespoke renovations while maintaining its rich history as an iconic Greenwich property. Behind its charming exterior lies a modern interior filled with elegant design choices. The gardens surrounding the property are equally impressive, featuring tiered cutting and berry gardens, flat play areas, and a lower field perfect for sports activities.

Coastal Countryside in Costa Brava

Barcelona and Costa Brava Sotheby’s International Realty

Translating to “wild coast,” Costa Brava in Spain boasts a rugged coastline dotted with sandy beaches, hidden coves, and charming seaside villages. The coastal paradise has long attracted luxury buyers to this region, both due to its idyllic countryside and proximity to Barcelona.

Barcelona and Costa Brava Sotheby’s International Realty

Nestled on the banks of the Ter River, lies Torroella De Montgri, a beautifully restored farmhouse and barn that combines traditional charm with modern luxury. This property spans over 1300 square meters and features two complete and independent houses, a large swimming pool, a paddle tennis court, a garage for three cars, and a cultivation field. The renovation of this property has spared no expense–only the highest quality materials were used including Corian for bathrooms and kitchens, hardwood windows, and handmade terracotta floors.

Far from being quaint, these upscale farmhouses bring together the rustic charm of country living with sophisticated design elements and modern amenities.

Dreaming about living stateside? Explore the emerging U.S. luxury markets stealing the hearts of investors.

This article originally appeared at https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/the-farmhouse-renaissance-inside-4-farm-style-homes

With designs reminiscent of stoves in vintage European homes, eye-catching French ranges add a dose of Old World charm to any kitchen.

Parisian-Inspired Pacific Heights Manor

John Kirtland | Sotheby’s International Realty – San Francisco Brokerage

This stately San Francisco hôtel particulier combines Old World inspiration with contemporary comforts and conveniences. Highlights include a foyer with a soaring window wall and a dramatic 16th-century fireplace; light-filled living, dining, and entertaining spaces; a family and a recreation room with a bar; a caterer’s kitchen; a wine cellar; and five bedrooms. The regal chef’s kitchen features a centuries-old stone fireplace modernized with gas starter, plentiful cabinet and counter space, an island and buffet of handsome carved wood, and a professional-caliber La Cornue range.

Sophisticated San Francisco Oasis

Gregg Lynn | Sotheby’s International Realty – San Francisco Brokerage

No expense was spared in the creation of this unparalleled three-bedroom residence in San Francisco’s Marina district. It boasts a living area with a sound system, blackout shades, and a gas fireplace; a primary suite with a walk-in closet and two baths; an office or media room; a rooftop deck; a wine cellar; guest quarters; gardens with a water feature, a gas firewall, and a built-in grill; and a kitchen with a La Cornue Château range featuring a French top and gas and electric ovens.

La Gentilhommière

Inspired by France’s Château de Givenchy-le-Noble and designed by the nephew of Hubert de Givenchy, this regal estate has an inimitable ambience thanks to numerous refined imported materials, including Pierre de Bourgogne limestone, 400-year-old ceiling beams, and 18th-century parquet de Versailles floors. Among the highlights are a studio above the three-car garage; a pool and pool house with an outdoor grilling area; and a Smallbone kitchen with a custom La Cornue Château range, a solid limestone sink, and radiant-heated 19th-century tile floors.

The Sebastiani Family’s Fleur de Lys Estate

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

Deeply rooted in wine country history, this 4.56-acre estate includes vineyards and an elegant four-bedroom French-influenced residence. Much of the home’s 11,89-square-foot floor plan is designed for gatherings: a living room, a formal dining room with satin walls, a den with fireplace, a library, and a wood-paneled game room with a wet bar. The chef’s kitchen remains charming and convivial with its traditional cabinetry, colorful marble countertops, whimsical backsplash for the stately La Cornue range, and access to the manicured grounds.

This article originally appeared at https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/bon-appetit-4-homes-with-fantastique-french-ranges

A decorative motif since ancient Egypt, the black-and-white checkered floor appears in Masonic temples, the colonnade of the Grand Trianon at Versailles, and countless early-20th-century American homes. The pattern subtly introduces a sense of fun and whimsy while adding depth and dimension—checking all the boxes of thoughtful, timeless design.

A Southern California Classic

Richard Yohon | Sotheby’s International Realty – Los Feliz Brokerage

Dating to the late 1920s, this seven-bedroom Los Feliz residence combines classical elegance with modern flair and a stylishly minimalist palette. The grand entry opens to a sunny living room with a fireplace, a formal dining room, a library, and a cook’s kitchen and breakfast area with an island, stainless-steel appliances, and striking black-and-white tiled floors that are stately and slightly whimsical. Other highlights include a family room, a temperature-controlled wine cellar, and a grassy backyard with a patio, fireplace, pool, spa, and outdoor kitchen.

Idyllic Coastal Colonial

Leslie McElwreath | Sotheby’s International Realty – Greenwich Brokerage

On the banks of a peaceful Long Island Sound cove, this magnificent Greenwich estate is inspiring in its style, scale, and setting. Creating visual interest throughout the 12,492 square feet are—naturally—water views as well as vibrant colors, intriguing textures, eye-catching window detailing and other millwork, wall treatments, and tile—most notably the bold black-and-white pattern in the regal foyer. The 1.6-acre property also offers a refreshing swimming pool, a private beach, a fire pit, and a dock.

French-Inspired Manor in Greenwich

Joseph Barbieri, Leslie McElwreath | Sotheby’s International Realty – Greenwich Brokerage

Nearly every room of this light-flooded 9,006-square-foot, six-bedroom manor enjoys an unobstructed view of Greenwich Cove. Beginning with a foyer floored in timelessly handsome black and white tiles, it displays a respect for classicism and an impeccable attention to detail throughout. The equally impressive 1.77-acre grounds feature covered and open-air living spaces, swaths of emerald lawn, manicured gardens, a two-bedroom guest cottage, and a swimming pool and spa surrounded by a terrace perfect for waterside lounging and entertaining.

Sagaponack’s Winnecoma

Clark + Thoerner Team | Sotheby’s International Realty – Bridgehampton Brokerage

A mere mile from the beach in Sagaponack, this estate—reportedly one of the area’s first summer retreats—is suffused with the enchantment of a bygone era. The four-acre property includes a delightful Shingle-style home, a guesthouse, a carriage house, a former stable, gardens, and a collection of wild and specimen trees. Designed in 1899 by James E. Ware & Sons of Manhattan, the main residence features a welcoming foyer with checkerboard floors and one of several fireplaces, decoratively detailed windows, and numerous porches and balconies.

This article originally appeared at https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/checkmate-4-homes-with-black-and-white-floors