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From record-breaking Birkins to playful Chanel collectibles, the handbag market has never been more exciting, writes Mandi Keighran Hermès Beton Matte Alligator, Blanc Togo, Bleu Brume Chèvre and White, Orange H and Craie Swift, Blanc Sombrero Neige Faubourg Birkin 20 Sellier Palladium Hardware, 2022. Photograph: Sotheby’s In July 2025, a slightly battered black leather bag—complete with the original owner’s nail clippers hanging from the strap—sold at Sotheby’s Paris for US$10.1m. The bag was the original Hermès Birkin, the prototype of the now-iconic style, crafted for actress Jane Birkin in 1984 after a chance encounter with Hermès chief executive Jean-Louis Dumas on a flight. Bidding opened at €1m (US$1.15m) and nine collectors fought over it in a 10-minute bidding war that proved, without a doubt, that the handbag market is one to be taken seriously. “The first auctions with handbags started around 2008 to 2010, and since then the market has expanded significantly,” says Gabrielle Hollenbeck, an associate specialist in handbags at Sotheby’s. “With social media, and knowledge and awareness of brands like Hermès and Chanel, it has really grown.” Mandatory Credit: Photo by Mike Daines/Shutterstock (255529e) Jane Birkin at her mother’s house in London, UK VARIOUS – 1996 " src="https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Handbags_Jane-Birkin_Copyright-Mike-Daines_Shutterstock.jpg" alt="Jane Birkin with her original Hermes Birkin in her home" class="wp-image-346335" srcset="https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Handbags_Jane-Birkin_Copyright-Mike-Daines_Shutterstock.jpg 2500w, https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Handbags_Jane-Birkin_Copyright-Mike-Daines_Shutterstock-300x240.jpg 300w, https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Handbags_Jane-Birkin_Copyright-Mike-Daines_Shutterstock-1024x819.jpg 1024w, https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Handbags_Jane-Birkin_Copyright-Mike-Daines_Shutterstock-768x614.jpg 768w, https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Handbags_Jane-Birkin_Copyright-Mike-Daines_Shutterstock-1536x1228.jpg 1536w, https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Handbags_Jane-Birkin_Copyright-Mike-Daines_Shutterstock-2048x1638.jpg 2048w, https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Handbags_Jane-Birkin_Copyright-Mike-Daines_Shutterstock-1200x960.jpg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 2500px) 100vw, 2500px" Jane Birkin with her original Hermès Birkin. Photograph: Copyright Mike Daines_Shutterstock Today, around 90 per cent of Sotheby’s handbag sales are Hermès, with styles such as the Birkin and Kelly proving most popular. Current tastes lean towards smaller sizes, such as the Mini Kelly or the Birkin 25, plus limited-edition pieces. Among the most coveted are the Birkin 20 bags in exotic skins and Faubourg Birkins: exquisite miniatures of the brand’s flagship store in Paris, complete with tiny windows and awnings, which routinely fetch upward of US$150,000. “The Faubourg Birkins are very playful—like small pieces of art,” says Hollenbeck. “It’s definitely a special-occasion bag.” While there may never be a sale that matches the record set by the original Birkin, there have been some notable pieces on the market in recent years. One of the ultimate “it” bags is the Hermès Diamond Himalaya Birkin 30, which is crafted from Niloticus crocodile skin and features diamond-encrusted 18-karat white-gold hardware. In 2022, Sotheby’s sold one in a private sale for US$450,000. Chanel’s Casino Monaco Slot Machine Minaudière, 2023, and Pink, Clear and Blue Resin Coco Beach Ball Minaudière, 2019. Photographs: Sotheby’s Chanel also commands attention at auction, particularly the highly embellished minaudières (small decorative handbags). These whimsical designs, which take the form of anything from a Chanel No5 perfume bottle to a cupcake, can cost up to US$20,000 in store and tend to hold their value at auction. “They’re beautiful pieces—very rare and very collectible,” says Hollenbeck. As this market grows, the collector base is broadening. Hollenbeck has noticed growing numbers of male buyers drawn by the investment opportunity, which she compares to watches. “They retain their value over time, and you might not be able to access many of the rarer pieces easily in store,” she explains. Younger collectors gravitate towards trendier, smaller styles, while more established buyers seek out larger sizes and exotic skins. Vintage Hermès, which is defined as anything pre-2000, is an underrated entry point, says Hollenbeck. “These bags have stood the test of time and they’re still beautiful luxury leather pieces.” A selection of ‘buy now’ luxury handbags on view at Sotheby’s Salon. Photograph: Stefan Ruiz For many, luxury handbags are investments and objects of art rather than accessories for everyday use—and to retain their value, Hollenbeck’s advice is to think of them as you would a sculpture. “You really have to treat it like a piece of art,” she says. Avoid direct sunlight, which can alter the color of sensitive leathers, and maintain a stable temperature. Bags should be kept stuffed with acid-free tissue to hold their shape and stored in their dust bags when not on show. Some collectors go further, housing prized pieces in glass or acrylic cases, which truly elevates them to the status of artwork. For those considering a first purchase, the secondary market—including Sotheby’s auctions and its digital Buy Now platform—offers something the boutique often cannot: choice. “We have a wide variety of bags in different shapes, styles and colors,” Hollenbeck says. “There’s no guarantee you will be able to buy the bag you want in store, but at auction, chances are you’re going to find something you like.” Our Collecting Focus series features expert advice on contemporary art, high jewelry, watches, wine, rare whisky, historic books, fashion history, natural history, Chinese art and antiques and Americana
Named for an ancient fictional warrior queen, this estate in the foothills of Montecito is a terrestrial paradise of nearly 16 acres with an Old World-inspired residence, guest quarters, garaging, equestrian facilities, a tennis court, orchards, gardens, and towering stalwart trees. With its ornate iron gates, iconic barrel-tiled roofline, stucco façade, warm earthy hues, tall timeless shutters, breezy balconies, and gracefully arching doorways, the handsome home known as Villa Calafia could easily be mistaken for a regal retreat in the Mediterranean countryside. These quintessentially Old World aesthetics, though, belie the fact that it is the centerpiece of a nearly 16-acre estate in the foothills of Montecito with a distinctly American pedigree. Carpinteria, California | Jason Siemens | Sotheby’s International Realty – Montecito – Coast Village Road Brokerage Dubbed Villa Calafia when it was constructed in the 1930s, the main residence blends enduring vintage flair—coffered ceilings, distinctive fireplaces, richly hued hardwood and terra-cotta-tile floors—with modern minimalism and contemporary comforts and conveniences. Highlights include a chic living room; a solarium wrapped in nearly floor-to-ceiling windows and glass doors; a cook’s kitchen with abundant counter and cabinet space and stainless-steel appliances; peaceful bedrooms accompanied by baths that retain period accents and surfaces of striking green marble; a placid panoramic “pentroom”; a tiered stone terrace with an impossibly verdant outlook; and a rooftop deck that gazes toward not the Mediterranean but the Pacific. Sharing the acreage are guesthouses, a freestanding garage and carport, equestrian facilities with bygone-era details, a tennis court, and orchards. The “serenity house” is an airy Japanese-inspired spa-like oasis that encourages rest and relaxation in open spaces surrounded by calming natural materials. Towering oak and pine trees stand stalwart over lush lawn, subtly meticulous landscaping, gardens accented with statuary, and meandering brick paths. Villa Calafia has a distinguished provenance, designed as it was by the illustrious architect Gordon Kaufmann. Recognized for his work in the Mediterranean Revival and Art Deco styles, he lent his talents to such area landmarks as Scripps College, La Quinta Resort & Club, Greystone Mansion, the Hoover Dam, and the Los Angeles Times Building. But the estate’s historic significance extends further back than its early-20th-century origins. It takes its moniker from Calafia, the queen of a fictional island depicted by 15th-century poet Garci Rodríguez de Montalvo and the namesake of the state of California. The subject of many a sculpture, painting, story, and film, the regal warrior queen is widely known to symbolize a “terrestrial paradise,” making the attribution of her title to this idyllic generational estate perfectly apropos. Discover luxury homes for sale and rent around the world on sothebysrealty.com
Architectural flourishes and statement design ensure a sense of occasion every time you arrive home, writes Nancy Groves Sarasota, Florida | Premier Sotheby’s International Realty As the glitter settles for another year on the 98th Academy Awards in Los Angeles, it seems fitting to take a tour of some truly Oscar-worthy hallways around the world. Most actors will have dreamed of one day sweeping through a grand doorway or down a spiral staircase, clutching that golden statuette in a longed-for moment of adulation and celebration. But making an entrance isn’t reserved for the good folk of Hollywood. Every homeowner wants a hallway fit for their identity and lifestyle, one that impresses visitors, welcomes in guests, and is both impactful and a suitable introduction to the rest of the residence. And when it comes to high-end luxury homes, this becomes all the more important. “A luxury property’s entrance sets the tone for the entire home,” says Shauna Walters, global real estate advisor with Sotheby’s International Realty – Beverly Hills Brokerage. “It’s the first moment of arrival and the first impression for guests, so it needs to immediately convey scale, design intention and atmosphere.” Hollywood Hills, California | Sotheby’s International Realty – Beverly Hills Brokerage Nowhere is that intent more evident than in the opening vestibule of this midcentury-inspired contemporary build in the Hollywood Hills, where dimensions, decor and custom fittings by the Italian lighting brand Vesta combine in an aesthetic that should appeal to those behind or in front of a camera. “The entrance hallway was designed as a true architectural moment.” says Walters of this dynamic design scheme. “The bespoke lighting and dramatic chandelier draw the eye upward and highlight the volume of the space, while the fountains introduce movement and a calming sound that adds a resort-like sense of luxury.” These sensory and sculptural elements are echoed throughout the entire nine-bedroom, 14-bathroom home, offering continuity. “What makes the experience even more powerful is that the hallway naturally leads your eye toward the expansive views beyond,” Walters says. “As you walk through the entry, the home slowly reveals itself, creating a sense of drama and progression that sets the stage for the rest of the property.” Sarasota, Florida | Premier Sotheby’s International Realty There is a similarly pleasing progression to the entrance of this coastal Florida estate, part of the gated community of Cocoanut Bayou in Sarasota. A twin Italianate exterior staircase leads the visitor up from the grounds to heavy-duty wooden double doors, which open into a 12-foot-high foyer, framed by a curved ironwork banister: perfect for an award-winning descent. Step from this hallway through to the huge central living room, meanwhile, and the ceiling height doubles to 24 feet, while hardwood flooring and a decorative balcony on the terrace beyond create a continuous sightline from the front doors right through to the waterfront. Corfu, Greece | Greece Sotheby’s International Realty In a secluded stretch of Greece, the statement made by another twin staircase and gallery landing is deployed in a hallway that ties these elements together playfully. For those inspired by storytelling—and what else is the movie business?—the entrance to The Grand Estate in Kassiopi, Corfu, engages your curiosity and imagination immediately. The simple trinity of flagstone, woodwork and white walls becomes a canvas for decorative rugs, painted panels, books, pots, clocks and other treasured items. And through a trio of windows and door: green foliage and the beautiful blue waters of the Ionian sea. As Shauna Walters says of good hallway design: “Done well, an entry creates a transition from the outside world into a private sanctuary while building anticipation for what’s beyond.” Belgravia, London | United Kingdom Sotheby’s International Realty Finally, in London, famously home to its fair share of Oscar winners, staircases don’t get much more sweeping than the central flight of this Belgravia duplex, proving that grand entrances aren’t reserved for standalone homes, but also serve stylish apartment living. Combining architectural detail with contemporary flair, this hallway’s monochrome scheme exudes drama, with dark banisters echoing the marble and decorative grate at floor level. What’s more, while the entrance to the apartment is private and discreet, via a landscaped garden, the building is portered, offering the best of both worlds. Everyone’s a winner. As decorative metalwork grows in popularity, here’s why it’s never gone out of fashion
This extraordinary 5,326-square-foot aerie in Manhattan’s Mandarin Oriental showcases the signature style of legendary interior designer Jacques Grange and, with its walls of glass, affords a cinematic outlook on Central Park, the Hudson River, and the sparkling city skyline. Legendary in aesthetic and architectural circles, Frenchman Jacques Grange is one of the world’s most influential interior designers. His sui generis style—which alchemizes the historical and the contemporary—has drawn the eye of luminaries the world over, from Pierre Bergé, co-founder of the Yves Saint-Laurent fashion house, to the likes of Karl Lagerfeld, Princess Caroline of Monaco, Alain Ducasse, and Paloma Picasso and is widely coveted for its uncommon ability to exude elegance while remaining unfussy, livable, and comfortable. New York, New York | Elizabeth L. Sample, Brenda Powers | Sotheby’s International Realty – East Side Manhattan Brokerage This magnetic marriage of the simple and the sophisticated is on brilliant display in this soaring residence in Manhattan’s Mandarin Oriental, an extraordinary 5,326-square-foot aerie with walls of glass offering a cinematic outlook on Central Park, the Hudson River, and the sparkling city skyline as it unfurls toward the Atlantic Ocean. In the gallery foyer, surfaces of sturdy, richly hued wood introduce the home’s unique aesthetic, stamped with Grange’s signature style. A glamorous custom cocktail bar serves as a soigné segue to the vast great room, an entertainer’s showplace with two sitting areas, a dedicated dining area, a majestic vista, and walls and lighting designed for the display of art. Beyond is a study or sitting area with a wall of built-in bookshelves. The captivating ambience persists even in the streamlined kitchen, secluded behind automatic doors off the dining area. Here, carved rosewood cabinetry and black mica finishes create a one-of-a-kind setting for an impressive collection of top-tier appliances, including two Sub-Zero refrigerator-freezers and wine chillers, a five-burner Gaggenau cooktop, three Miele ovens, a Dacor warming drawer, and dual Miele dishwashers. The open, airy owner’s suite is an almost otherworldly sanctuary of clean lines, silk-paneled walls with gold-leaf accents, and expansive views. The two-part spa-inspired bath boasts amber-mica-tinted glass, dramatically veined marble, handsome onyx, radiant-heated floors, a steamshower, a bidet, a park-facing whirlpool tub, and dual vanities. The boutique-caliber walk-in closets and dressing rooms are clad in zebra wood and offer a wealth of custom appointments. Well separated and exceptionally private, the guest wing comprises three bedrooms, each with an en suite bath, a generous closet, and eye-catching Hudson River views. A top-of-the-line Crestron system controls audiovisual components, window shades, air conditioning, and heating throughout the home. For the owners of this residence and the 58 others at the Mandarin Oriental, the five-star amenities include an an attended lobby with dedicated elevators and staff, exceptional security, a 75-foot indoor pool, a fitness center, a spa, in-home dining, and housekeeping, butler, valet, and concierge services. The building enjoys a prime position on Billionaires’ Row, an area of Manhattan developed as an allure for the global elite exemplified by iconic residential towers at prestigious addresses affording exclusive amenities and consummate privacy—the ideal environs for the timeless talent of Jacques Grange. Discover luxury homes for sale and rent around the world on sothebysrealty.com
Our monthly series asks: How do you bring color into luxury design? Used with care, yellow is uplifting, writes Jill Krasny London, England | United Kingdom Sotheby’s International Realty Some homes quickly fade from the mind while others are unforgettable. Often the design scheme is a factor. Pink can be surprisingly grounding and red gets people talking, while yellow—which our series on color in design turns to next—is notoriously hard to handle, but can deliver amazing results. “When I’m thinking about yellow, the first room that comes up for me is the Yellow Room by Nancy Lancaster and John Fowler,” says London-based interior designer Rachel Chudley of their famed reception room at 39 Brook Street, Mayfair. “That for me is yellow at its best—it’s somehow luminous, it’s warm, it pulls everything together, but it also feels bold,” she says. The variations—and contradictions—of yellow have captivated artists for centuries, as the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam explores in its current exhibition, “Yellow. Beyond Van Gogh’s Colour.” However, they can also make the color tricky to work with, especially as a pastel. “It’s really difficult not to make it too insipid,” says Chudley, “and maintain that kind of lightness.” Still, she notices more and more people are gravitating to yellow in luxury design schemes again, while drawing on its layered historical associations. Florence, Italy | Italy Sotheby’s International Realty A charming 16th-century villa near Florence feels in tune with its verdant surroundings thanks to its faded ochre exterior. “It’s got that plastery warmth, which feels kind of natural there, very Italian,” says Chudley, noting the extensive use of the color during the Florentine Renaissance. The weathered appearance, made all the more noticeable due to the material’s application, also “lends itself to this clay-pot feel,” she adds. Yellow is deployed throughout the interiors too, a striking backdrop to the home’s extensive collection of traditional furniture and fine art. Sea Island, Georgia | DeLoach Sotheby’s International Realty By contrast, Villa Measured, a neoclassical residence within a gated estate on Sea Island, a private island in Georgia, appears lighter and brighter. “This yellow feels like the John Soane yellow,” says Chudley, referring to the house museum of the English architect Sir John Soane. Soane’s drawing room, painted Turner’s Yellow—a pigment developed in the late 18th century—is truly a statement. The same hue works in Georgia, says Chudley, because “they’re leaning into that classically proportioned architecture,” which complements the clear blue sky. Sea Island, Georgia | DeLoach Sotheby’s International Realty A sprawling estate on Merritt Island, on the east coast of Florida, similarly pays homage to traditional Florentine villas with its butter-yellow exterior and distinctive Italian stone fountains. Inside, the sizable Tuscan-style kitchen and adjacent dining area continue the theme, though the true star is the home’s neoclassical exterior, which contrasts beautifully with Florida’s violet-streaked sunset. “This is a perfect hot weather color,” says Chudley. Anything lighter would feel washed out. Merritt Island, Florida | ONE Sotheby’s International Realty In London, meanwhile, a spacious townhouse on Kendal Street near Hyde Park uses a turmeric shade of yellow to set off the grayness outside. “It’s the classic London brick with the gray London light coming through,” says Chudley. A key part of selecting a paint color is working with or against the view, she says, and here the color draws your eye away from the window. “If you have an amazing view, you want to bring it in,” she says. Here, the color feels “like a warm hug” on a cold, foggy day. Explore our Color Chart series, from zingy orange and bold red to calming white, joyful pink and crowd-pleasing blue
An impressive sporting calendar, a thriving design scene and an irrepressible cultural energy mean Melbourne consistently exceeds expectations, writes Mandi Keighran Southbank, Melbourne | Peninsula Sotheby’s International Realty Melbourne has long been known as Australia’s cultural capital, but that’s not the only side to the city—its sporting credentials are just as strong. Every year, headline events such as the Australian Open, the Spring Racing Carnival and the upcoming Australian Grand Prix, which kicks off a new Formula One season on March 8, draw global attention. While people might visit for the sporting spectacle, they tend to stay for everything else, from laneway galleries and hidden cocktail bars to blockbuster exhibitions and luxury boutiques. Oh, and the world-beating coffee. “Melbourne is known as one of the world’s most liveable cities,” says Max Ruttner, managing director of Melbourne Sotheby’s International Realty. “It offers an exceptional lifestyle alongside an incredible cultural and entertainment scene.” “I see Melbourne as the cultural heart of Australia’s creative industries,” agrees Alice Blackwood, a Melbourne-based design editor and strategic storyteller. “Creativity here never exists in isolation, nor does any discipline remain confined to its own practice. The cross-pollination between art, theatre, music, design, architecture and our world-class hospitality scene, too, generates a steady exchange of ideas and new experiences.” Southbank is the heart of Melbourne’s arts precinct, home not only to the National Gallery of Victoria—currently hosting the world premiere of landmark fashion exhibition “Westwood | Kawakubo”—but also the Arts Centre Melbourne and the Melbourne Theatre Company. Joining them will be The Fox: NGV Contemporary, which is set to open in 2028. Southbank, Melbourne | Peninsula Sotheby’s International Realty Rising above it all, on the banks of the Yarra River, is Eureka Tower, and at its summit, a penthouse occupying the entire 82nd floor. This is the ideal home for a Melburnian who thrives on city living. Full-height glazing frames dramatic 360-degree views of the skyline, while the building’s features include a 25-meter pool, gymnasium, sauna and cinema. “The penthouse is ideally located on the edge of the Melbourne CBD [Central Business District], with the city’s best restaurants at your doorstep,” says Ruttner. “It’s also only 100 meters from world-class lifestyle amenities.” However, with a dining area for 20 guests, chef’s kitchen, cigar lounge and 1,358-bottle wine cellar, residents might be tempted to stay in. There’s also the Alessi spa bath that looks over the water through the 24-carat-gold-plated windows that adorn the top 10 floors of the building. Malvern East, Melbourne | Melbourne Sotheby’s International Realty A different dimension unfolds in Melbourne’s suburbs. In leafy Malvern East, The Gables offers luxury of an earlier era—and the opportunity to own this property, says Ruttner, is “a rare and generational offering.” Designed in 1902 by Beverley Ussher and Henry Kemp, pioneers of Australia’s Federation architecture style, and set within gardens laid out by William Guilfoyle of Melbourne’s Royal Botanic Gardens fame, this Queen Anne mansion sits across three street frontages. Himalayan cedars planted more than 120 years ago still shade the grounds while four grand reception rooms—including a ballroom—evoke its storied history. In the early 20th century, during prohibition, it was used as a speakeasy by notorious Melbourne gangster Joseph “Squizzy” Taylor, and it went on to host weddings for celebrities and sports stars. Toorak, Melbourne | Melbourne Sotheby’s International Realty That sense of scale continues in Toorak, one of Melbourne’s most prestigious suburbs. Here, a 1920 Mediterranean Revival mansion on a coveted boulevard has recently come onto the market after being held by a single family for more than half a century. The home features formal and informal entertaining spaces that recall the glamour of its original decade, as well as a Hollywood Hills-style pool set in manicured gardens. If these homes represent Melbourne’s architectural past, a reimagined Victorian residence in the vibrant inner-city suburb of Prahran captures how the city weaves together old and new. Renovated by Corr Projects with LSA Architects and designer Nick Kelly, the property retains its period bones—think four-meter-high ceilings and double-fronted proportions—while a boldly geometric rear pavilion gives it distinctive contemporary character. Prahran, Melbourne | Melbourne Sotheby’s International Realty The style of each of these homes is unique, but the ambition and focus on the good life in all its guises is a constant, which, in many ways, is the most Melbourne quality of all. From its sports calendar and restaurant scene to its galleries and coffee, whatever Melbourne turns its hand to, it does so with world-class style. You’ve read about Melbourne. Now explore Brisbane, another blossoming cultural hub
There’s wealth, and then there’s investable wealth. Liquid and transferable, investable wealth is easily deployed into new assets—like luxury real estate. There are 16 million people worldwide who hold at least US$1M each in investable wealth, according to “Investable Assets of the Global Wealthy,” a report published on December 9, 2025 by research firm Altrata. Collectively these assets total US$67.3TN. The global footprint of the Sotheby’s International Realty® brand closely mirrors this wealth distribution, with a strong presence of affiliated offices and agents in markets where investable wealth is most concentrated. Take North America, where 7.4 million people have at least US$1M ready to invest, totalling US$29.3TN, according to Altrata. Most of this—US$26.2TN—is held in the U.S. by 6.8 million individuals. North America is also home to 745 Sotheby’s International Realty affiliated offices and 22,508 affiliated sales associates. In Asia, US$8.1TN is held by 4.2 million people, and in Europe, 3.1 million people hold US$13.8TN. Japan—which ranks third for total investable wealth after the U.S. and China–is home to 10 Sotheby’s International Realty affiliated offices and 160 affiliated sales associates, while there are 182 affiliated offices and 1,237 affiliated associates in Europe. Cover Property: San Luis Obispo, California
This unparalleled estate represents a pinnacle of the notion of home: a European-inspired manor, built in 1900 and spanning some 15,900 square feet, that stands sentinel over nearly 270 acres of sylvan land that unfurls along the border of Connecticut and New York. In the northern reaches of Stamford, Connecticut, the unparalleled estate known as Hillandale stands sentinel over more than 268 acres of sylvan land that unfurls along the border of Connecticut and New York. This European-inspired manor, built in 1900 and spanning more than 15,900 square feet, was once owned by the Sulzbergers, a prominent media family that has owned The New York Times since 1896. The compound encompasses formal gardens, a private lake, and four staff or guest residences in addition to the main house. Daniel Milstein Photography " src="https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/11.jpg" alt="indoor Olympic-sized pool with ornate mosaics and large french doors " class="wp-image-346250" srcset="https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/11.jpg 1800w, https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/11-300x200.jpg 300w, https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/11-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/11-768x512.jpg 768w, https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/11-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/11-1200x800.jpg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1800px) 100vw, 1800px" Stamford, Connecticut | Leslie McElwreath, Joseph Barbieri | Sotheby’s International Realty – Greenwich Brokerage Lovingly maintained and masterfully rejuvenated and expanded over the decades, the manor house is grand in scale, boasting exquisite formal rooms. The pièce de résistance is the spectacular mosaic-clad natatorium, which houses an Olympic-sized indoor swimming pool and spa. Among the eight bedrooms and 10 baths is a majestic owner’s suite featuring antique French paneling, a marble fireplace, two dressing rooms, two lavish baths, and a private balcony overlooking the grounds and the lake. Daniel Milstein Photography " src="https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/12-1024x683.jpg" alt="ornate living room with marble fireplace" class="wp-image-346251" srcset="https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/12-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/12-300x200.jpg 300w, https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/12-768x512.jpg 768w, https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/12-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/12-1200x800.jpg 1200w, https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/12.jpg 1800w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" The living room, with its ornate millwork and marble fireplace, brings to mind a French salon. The dining room features an eye-catching tracery ceiling and hand-carved antique English pine paneling. The kitchen will impress both cooks and gourmands with its Calacatta countertops; generous island; and appliances from Miele, Bosch, Viking, Sub-Zero, Dacor, and Thermador. An adjoining breakfast and family room has a French limestone fireplace, and the butler’s pantry offers an additional refrigerator, a dumbwaiter, and wine storage. The library has a fireplace, a bay window, and paneling dating to the 1750s, while the foyer showcases a Tiffany stained-glass accent. A lounge with a bar also has a stately stone fireplace as well as a coffered ceiling and a retractable projector screen. Contemporary comforts include two elevators, a security system, 11 fireplaces, and a generator. A handsome slate-tiled roof, a façade of stalwart granite, and ornate iron entry gates exemplify the undeniable Old World classicism and convey the enduring nature of the estate. An attached two-car garage and a detached four-car garage with an apartment above complete the estate. The delights continue outdoors, from a terrace overlooking five-acre Lake Susan and formal gardens that include a hedge maze and parterres to a greenhouse, a cutting garden, a stone chapel garden folly, and a fenced vegetable garden with a peafowl coop. Entertainment abounds thanks to a swimming pool with a pool house, a lighted Australian-style-surface tennis court, and an outdoor chess set. In addition to woodland trails, more than five miles of private roads wind through the property, affording easy access to four additional residences for guests and/or staff on the property. Much like the historic European estates after which it was modeled, Hillandale surpasses the mere notion of “home.” Whether destined to continue its legacy as a peaceful private hideaway with an impressive pedigree, a nexus for fabulous festive fêtes, or a generational retreat, it is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity not to be missed. Discover luxury homes for sale and rent around the world on sothebysrealty.com
The Sotheby’s International Realty® brand today announced that its 2025 U.S. sales volume increased 9.3% year over year—more than triple the National Association of REALTORS® reported overall market growth of 2.6%.1 Globally, the brand achieved US$182.4 billion in sales volume in 2025, up from US$157 billion in 2024, representing nearly 16% year-over-year growth. This performance marks the brand’s second-strongest year on record and its highest annual sales volume since the pandemic-era surge. Celebrating its 50th anniversary, Sotheby’s International Realty further solidified its position as a global premier luxury real estate network, now comprising more than 1,100 offices across 86 countries and territories. The milestone underscores the strength of the brand’s global footprint, the caliber of its agent network, and its continued resonance with discerning buyers and sellers worldwide. “For five decades, Sotheby’s International Realty affiliated agents have been the trusted advisors for clients navigating the luxury real estate market at the highest level,” said Philip White, President and CEO of Sotheby’s International Realty. “The brand’s sustained growth is the result of a deliberate global strategy—expanding into key markets, strengthening the connections within our network, and delivering exceptional referral opportunities that drive meaningful results. Coupled with our industry-leading marketing platform that showcases extraordinary properties to a truly global audience, we empower our affiliated sales professionals to connect discerning buyers and sellers across borders. As we celebrate 50 years of the brand, our success reflects the power of collaboration, innovation, and expertise that continue to define Sotheby’s International Realty worldwide.” An Unrivaled Platform for Global Success In 2025, Sotheby’s International Realty continued to elevate its position as a premier global network for real estate professionals, empowering them to serve clients seamlessly anywhere in the world and expand their business beyond local markets. The brand’s network generated nearly US$7 billion in global referrals—high-quality, relationship-driven leads that translate into meaningful, incremental revenue opportunities for affiliated agents. Strengthening its international presence with new affiliates in Hungary and the Philippines, Sotheby’s International Realty now offers even greater access to key global markets, reinforcing its role as a trusted connector for high-net-worth buyers and sellers worldwide. “Our global network empowers Sotheby’s International Realty affiliated agents to seamlessly serve clients anywhere in the world,” said Tammy Fahmi, Senior Vice President of Global Servicing and Strategy for Sotheby’s International Realty. “By facilitating high-quality, trust-based referrals across markets, we’re not only expanding opportunities for our network but driving meaningful results for their clients—turning global connections into measurable growth.” With nearly 26,000 sales associates across its network, Sotheby’s International Realty delivers an unparalleled level of collaboration, uniting top professionals who provide exceptional service, expert local insight, and access to a truly global client base. Unmatched Media Visibility and Digital Reach Sotheby’s International Realty reached a new benchmark in its digital growth strategy, closing the year with 1.38 million followers across social media—making it the most-followed luxury real estate brand for the first time. This achievement highlights the brand’s dynamic storytelling and its ability to engage discerning audiences worldwide through visually compelling, aspirational content. The brand’s digital presence remained a cornerstone of its success, with sothebysrealty.com attracting approximately 42 million visits in 2025. The site continues to serve as a global showcase for extraordinary properties, providing an elevated user experience that connects clients to the world’s most desirable homes and leading real estate professionals. Sotheby’s International Realty remained the #1 most profiled luxury real estate brand in the news2 underscoring its authority and influence within the global real estate conversation. This prominence was amplified through engagements and media collaborations with some of the world’s most respected and influential brands, including The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, Financial Times, Architectural Digest, and Sotheby’s Auction House. Together, these alignments reinforce the brand’s unmatched connection to the worlds of art, culture, design, and international luxury. “Our ability to consistently reach and engage a global audience speaks to the strength of our marketing, storytelling, and digital strategy,” said Bradley Nelson, Chief Marketing Officer, Sotheby’s International Realty. “We continue to invest in platforms and content that helps elevate agents, showcase extraordinary properties, and connect with today’s globally minded luxury consumer.” A Global Brand Built for the Modern Luxury Homebuyer and Home Seller As luxury buyers increasingly operate across borders, Sotheby’s International Realty continues to set the standard for global real estate advisory services, combining deep local expertise with unmatched international scale. The brand’s award-winning Luxury Outlook® Report and related thought leadership program further reinforces its authority in the high-end property market, delivering proprietary insights and forward-looking analysis to affluent consumers and media worldwide. With continued expansion, innovation, and a steadfast commitment to excellence, the Sotheby’s International Realty brand enters 2026 positioned for sustained growth and long-term leadership in the global luxury real estate market. Cover Property: British Columbia, Canada Photos: Sean Yoro, Eibner Saliba, unsplash.com
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