Reside Blog

A new year invites a more meaningful approach to interior design, with personalized spaces that support your well-being and values, writes Emma Reynolds Austin, Texas | Kuper Sotheby’s International Realty Each new year invites reflection and renewal and much of that begins at home. Where we live is an extension of who we are and what we value. In 2026, luxury design is moving beyond fleeting trends and strict design rules, embracing more individualized interiors, richer color and texture, a lived-in ease and spaces that foster connection. New York-based interior designer Andrew Suvalsky says his clients are pivoting from minimalism to embrace a more personalized aesthetic. “People want homes that are layered, expressive and distinguished, rather than neutral or generic,” he says. The most compelling interiors aren’t static; they evolve with their owners over time. Consider these ideas a thoughtful roadmap for elevating your home and lifestyle. Think big with wallpaper Ontario, Canada | Sotheby’s International Realty Canada Blank white walls can be a creative canvas: an invitation to go bold with statement coverings. Wallpaper, once tied to dated living rooms and grand old hotels, has reemerged as a powerful design tool that can double up as artwork. It appears in non-traditional ways—on wrapped ceilings and in lined cabinetry—while transforming smaller spaces such as closets, powder rooms and offices into moments of surprise. Skilled artisans and heritage design houses such as de Gournay—as featured in this contemporary home in Ontario, Canada—create bespoke works from intricate hand-painted murals to luxurious tactile materials (silk, pearl appliqué, linen, grasscloth) that add beauty and depth to walls that could otherwise fall flat. Go wild with an orangery Portland, Oregon | Cascade Hasson Sotheby’s International Realty An orangery is a purpose-built garden room originally designed to shelter citrus trees through harsh European winters. Popularized in 17th-century England, it soon became a symbol of refinement, evolving into a sophisticated setting for entertaining guests. Today, the orangery feels newly relevant as homeowners embrace biophilic design, the philosophy of connecting people to nature through natural light, views and proximity to the outdoors to enhance well-being. Essentially, a more elevated take on the conservatory, orangeries are conceived as a true architectural extension of the home, with insulated masonry walls, oversized windows, and, ideally, a glazed lantern roof that lets the sun shine through all year. Have fun with color contrasts Austin, Texas | Kuper Sotheby’s International Realty Homeowners are growing ever more confident when it comes to experimenting with color as they realize that low-risk, low-maintenance, non-permanent tweaks using paint, textiles and accessories can easily transform a room without a full redesign. Whether bright and vibrant, or dark, earthy and moody, color is the most satisfying of upgrades. Methods like color drenching (painting walls, ceilings, trims and doors the same hue) or contrasting unexpected shades, through furniture, art and decor, can both work. This Mediterranean-style property in Austin, Texas is a lesson in tasteful yet daring color contrasting, featuring saturated red hues alongside shades of saffron and green. “There’s a desire to bring the richness of high fashion, as we see on runways and magazine editorial imagery, into the home through color, texture and materiality,” says Suvalsky. Create a sanctuary—inside or outside Jackson Hole, Wyoming |Jackson Hole Sotheby’s International Realty New year’s resolutions often revolve around our health. Wellness-focused amenities in the comfort of your own home can help support these goals long-term. Saunas, gyms, cold plunges, spas and mediation rooms are among the most in-demand luxury residential features as a new wave of buyers prioritize longevity of lifestyle. A mountain home in Jackson Hole, Wyoming approaches the booming sauna culture in particular through a design-forward lens; its outdoor sauna is a sleek and contemporary structure tucked into the wild landscape. Some high-end homeowners and property developers are even installing hyperbaric oxygen chambers and IV drip stations. Though wellness means something different for everyone, the benefits of creating a calm, relaxing space for restorative rituals, whatever its size or scale, go a long way. Source locally whenever possible Queenstown, New Zealand | New Zealand Sotheby’s International Realty Sustainability is not a trend but a guiding principle for today’s homeowners and designers. Locally sourced materials ground a home in its surroundings and create a true sense of place, while reducing environmental impact and fostering community. It’s just as important to work with local artisans and craftspeople, who bring knowledge, tradition and nuance that can’t be imported or replicated. “With the flood of mass-produced furniture from global retailers, clients want something more customized and turn to finely crafted special-order furnishings built by hand,” says Suvalsky, who has curated a strong network of artisans and fabricators in his work. There’s no better display of how contemporary design can sit cohesively with expert craftsmanship and local materials than this hilltop manse in Queenstown, New Zealand. An architectural marvel overlooking Lake Wakatipu, it features locally sourced schist stone, slate flooring and reclaimed Kauri timber details that incorporate an organic feel. Artful touches, like a sculptural spiral staircase, make the home feel one-of-a-kind. Interested in the architecture and design trends set to define 2026? Read our guide

A rare piece of architectural history, this six-bedroom residence on Shelter Island was one of famed Norman Jaffe’s early creations, exemplifying his style with its strong lines, generous use of stone and wood, and harmony with its serene seaside setting. A recent painstaking renovation by an esteemed designer has honored the original architecture while elevating the home as a bastion of luxurious modern living. After numerous sojourns on Long Island in the 1960s, young American architect Norman Jaffe quickly developed an affinity for designing beach houses. By the early 1970s, he had become the most prolific architect in the Hamptons, ultimately credited with pioneering the iconic rustic modernist aesthetic there. His legacy—an innovative use of natural materials, bold geometry, and an aim of integrating architecture with nature—has endured well into the 21st century. East Hampton, New York| Nick Brown | Sotheby’s International Realty – East Hampton Brokerage In the late 1960s, Meir and Eileen Osofsky commissioned Jaffe—then still in the early days of his career—to design a retreat on exclusive Shelter Island, on an estate site bookended by two other, smaller properties and elevated like a crown jewel above the water. So dedicated was Jaffe to the relationship between a home and its land, he is reported to have slept on the property until construction commenced. The resulting residence, built in 1971 and considered one of Jaffe’s finest, is a rare piece of architectural history, with strong lines, pervasive stone and wood, and a clear affection for geometry that exemplify Jaffe’s singular style. Its expanses of glass and distinctive cantilevered decks make it ideal for appreciating its coveted seaside setting, on the coast of Gardiners Bay, and sweeping ocean views. A 1981 Jaffe expansion, also commissioned by the Osofskys, added a guest wing that affords visitors consummate privacy as well as their own relaxed living area and space for dining. This wing connects seamlessly and feels at one with the original residence. Benjamin Brouham—senior creative director of Jonathan Adler and an esteemed design professional behind the restoration and modernization of the storied Grey Gardens—purchased the property in 2020 and, with the help of revered Shoshi Builders, embarked on a painstaking two-year renovation that added some 1,600 square feet to the floor plan. Simultaneously respecting and elevating the original architecture, this rejuvenation moved the cook’s kitchen to the lower level, where it opens to an alfresco dining area, and created a chic cocktail bar with a dumbwaiter on the main level. The attached garage was transformed into a well-outfitted theater. Today, the main level is dedicated to easy, luxurious living and sophisticated gatherings, with a fluid collection of dining and lounging spaces walled in stacked stone and uninterrupted glass. Six serene bedrooms with en suite baths allow for the comfortable accommodation of more than a dozen people, affording a rare combination of privacy and togetherness. The home also features a gym and an office with a balcony. No detail has been overlooked, and the quality of every fixture, furnishing, and finish is of the highest quality. Multiple decks and terraces encourage basking in fresh air, sunshine, and sea breezes. Festivities can continue outdoors thanks to a deep heated gunite pool and an alluring pergola—added during the most recent expansion—with an open-air kitchen, a fireplace, a living area, and dining space for up to 14. Further afield on the 1.7-acre grounds is a tennis and pickleball court. Landscaping by celebrated designer Vickie Cardaro added enchanting pollinator gardens and carefully chosen native coastal flora. This idyllic setting, which includes 175 feet of frontage of Gardiners Bay, helps the estate accomplish one of the core goals of modernism, beloved by Jaffe and discerning aficionados the world over: the creation of harmony, well-being, and sustainability by uniting a home with its environment. Discover luxury homes for sale and rent around the world on sothebysrealty.com

Why simply holiday in your favorite ski resort when you can embrace high-end mountain living and make it a home? Emma Reynolds reports Megève, France | Megève Sotheby’s International Realty With ski season officially underway for 2026, winter sports enthusiasts are scattering to mountain destinations across the globe for perfect pistes, picturesque views and an array of outdoor recreation options. Canada and the U.S., Japan, the European Alps and, increasingly, Eastern Europe, are just some of the regions where ski lovers will be making their snowy escapes. And while there are dozens of five-star hotels and chalets in which to spend a winter vacation, luxury buyers are increasingly discovering the benefits of purchasing property in a ski-focused locale. “Ultimate access to the outdoors is one of the most meaningful benefits of owning a home in these places,” says Austin DePree, co-founder of the architecture firm Northworks, with offices across the U.S, including Aspen, Colorado. “These homes become more than somewhere to rest,” DePree adds. “They’re places to gather, to bring friends and family into an experience, and to share a way of living that’s deeply tied to landscape. Owning a home removes the pressure of trying to maximize every moment during a short stay and allows you to be more present.” Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy | Italy Sotheby’s International Realty This year, the 2026 Winter Games will take place from February 6-22 in Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo, which also hosted the event in 1956. Often referred to as the “Pearl of the Dolomites,” the Northern Italian resort of Cortina is part of the Dolomiti Superski area. Season after season, jet-setters descend on the town for its upscale lifestyle and nostalgic European glamor (think Slim Aarons photographs from the 1960s and 1970s). Known for its alpine-style chalets and midcentury-modern design, Cortina has flair in abundance. A 1950-built home in one of the area’s most exclusive pockets is situated in a large private park that contributes to its quiet and refined appeal. The property has 11 bedrooms and nine bathrooms, cozy yet refined interiors, a panoramic terrace, indoor pool, fitness room and large garage with a heated snow avenue. “We’re seeing an increased emphasis on comfort, durability and wellness-driven amenities,” says DePree of mountain-based builds. “Radiant heating throughout the home, including garages, mudrooms and primary bathrooms, has become nearly essential. Saunas, steam showers, cold plunge rooms and fitness spaces are increasingly common, reflecting how closely these homes are tied to active lifestyles.” Megève, France | Megève Sotheby’s International Realty Chalet Ischia, in the high-end ski spot of Megève in the French Alps, is a case in point. As well as its seven bedrooms and seven bathrooms, this traditional chalet home has a dedicated wellness area with a hammam, ample space for exercise equipment, and an indoor pool that opens to the outdoors with floor-to-ceiling windows maintaining the connection to nature. Megève, meanwhile, blends aristocratic heritage and an old-world feel with Michelin-starred restaurants and designer boutiques. Materiality plays a key role in today’s luxury ski properties, says DePree, with many clients gravitating toward natural, tactile materials inspired by a property’s location. At Chalet Ischia, exposed wood beams, reclaimed wooden flooring and walls, and custom stonework all contribute to the authentic aesthetic. Most importantly of all, the property is located right on the slopes of La Princesse with direct ski access. Donnelly, Idaho | Group One Sotheby’s International Realty Ski-in/ski-out properties are highly sought-after no matter the location, and in Donnelly, Idaho, an 8,000 sq ft estate delivers. The sprawling mountainside home within the resort of Tamarack is situated on a peak named Sugar Loaf with direct access to one of the area’s most challenging slopes. A contemporary five-bedroom house designed by award-winning architect Dale Jones-Evans, it includes an 800-bottle wine cellar, integrated sound system, sauna and outdoor fireplace. Such properties promote wellness beyond their luxury amenities, says DePree—they offer the opportunity to unplug from urban routines into a healthier, more intentional lifestyle. “These environments naturally encourage movement, time outside and a closer relationship with daylight, weather and seasonality,” he explains. “There’s a mental clarity that comes from living in places where the built environment feels secondary to the landscape. These homes serve as a retreat that supports both activity and rest.” From Milan to Mexico City, here’s where you’ll really want to be in 2026

From Milan to Mexico City, these are the luxury locations to head to this year, writes Francesca Perry Mexico City, Mexico | Mexico Sotheby’s International Realty Looking ahead, a number of exciting, high-profile events and openings will animate cultural hotspots around the globe in 2026—but where are the biggest draws? Whether you’re a fan of sports, contemporary art or collectible design, here are our picks of the places to set your sights on this year, each with its own real estate landscape, full of opportunities. Milan, Italy Milan, Italy | Italy Sotheby’s International Realty Forever a center of fashion and design, Milan will also co-host the Winter Olympics this February along with the Alpine ski resort of Cortina d’Ampezzo. Music icon Mariah Carey will reportedly perform at the opening ceremony in Milan on February 6, and the city is set to host the ice sport events. Milano Santagiulia Ice Hockey Arena, an arena designed by David Chipperfield Architects for the event, will become a large-scale sports and entertainment venue after the Games conclude.In spring, the agenda-setting Salone del Mobile furniture fair returns (April 21‑26) with a new section dedicated to the very best of collectible design. Named Salone Raritas, the presentation reflects the growing culture of curated, crafted and unique design objects and furniture. Beyond the fair, the entire city comes to life for the week, dotted with exhibitions and installations showcasing the pinnacle of luxury and emerging design. Doha, Qatar Doha, Qatar | Qatar Sotheby’s International Realty Qatar’s capital, Doha, will welcome the inaugural edition of the Art Basel fair in the region on February 5, reflecting the city’s growing cultural prowess. Curated by artistic director Wael Shawky, Art Basel Qatar will present 87 world-leading galleries alongside a special projects program of large-scale, site-specific sculptures, installations and performances unfolding across the Msheireb Downtown Doha district. Shawky hopes that, under the curatorial banner of Becoming, the fair will be “a meditation on change.” In the Gulf region, he says, “oral traditions flow into digital networks and ancient trade routes return as new pathways of culture and exchange. Here, art is not only a witness to history but a force that shapes how we imagine and reimagine identity.”Two months later, the city will host the second edition of the Design Doha Biennale (April 12‑June 30), exploring the creativity of designers in the Middle East and beyond. American curator and writer Glenn Adamson, curatorial director of December’s Design Miami, is artistic director here, and aims to connect the Gulf’s design scene to a global audience. Mexico City, Mexico Mexico City, Mexico | Mexico Sotheby’s International Realty The 2026 Men’s Fifa World Cup has not one host nation but three—Mexico, Canada and the U.S.—with 104 games being held in 16 cities across the North American continent this summer. But when the action kicks off on June 11, the tournament’s opening ceremony and first game of the group stages will be held at the iconic Mexico City Stadium. Designed in 1966 by Mexican modernist architect Pedro Ramírez Vázquez for the then upcoming 1968 Olympics, the 83,000 capacity, earthquake-resistant venue is said to have been inspired by London’s original Wembley Stadium and Milan’s San Siro, and has already hosted two World Cup finals—in 1970 and 1986 respectively.Several months before the soccer fans descend, CDMX will be welcoming gallerists, artists and collectors for the always buzzy Zona Maco (February 4-8). Latin America’s leading international art fair is actually four fairs in one, platforming contemporary art, design, photography and antiques from galleries across the region to the world. London, U.K. Notting Hill, London | United Kingdom Sotheby’s International Realty Two major museums will arrive in London in 2026: V&A East and the London Museum. The former sees the expansion of the design and decorative arts-focused Victoria & Albert Museum, which already has three destinations in the U.K. capital, as well as one in the city of Stoke-on-Trent and one in Dundee, Scotland. Located in east London’s evolving Olympic Park, V&A East is designed by Dublin firm O’Donnell + Tuomey. After opening on April 18, it will host major exhibitions, as well as festivals, installations and live performances. The London Museum opens later in the year, in central London’s historic Smithfield Market, to a design by architects Asif Khan and Stanton Williams. A rebrand and relocation of the former Museum of London, this new destination will host exhibitions and events about the city, its culture and history. As ever, London is also home to some of the global cultural calendar’s key moments, from fashion weeks in February and September to the London Design Festival (September 12-20) and Frieze art fair (October 14-18). Seoul, South Korea Paris’ iconic modern art museum, Centre Pompidou, may be closed for renovations, but in May 2026, an outpost will open in the South Korean capital of Seoul. Named Centre Pompidou x Hanwha-Seoul, the gallery is located in Tower 63, a skyscraper in the financial district of Yeouido that is being transformed by leading French architect Jean-Michel Wilmotte. Exhibitions of the Pompidou’s modern and contemporary collections will be accompanied by an educational area for young visitors. Seoul, already a thriving capital city and hub of K-pop music, has been expanding its cultural offering over the past five years, becoming a leading Asian destination. The Photography Seoul Museum of Art opened its doors in May 2025. Frieze art fair, which made its Seoul debut in 2022, returns in 2026 for its fifth edition (September 2‑5) having recently opened its new permanent exhibition space in the city, Frieze House Seoul. Not far from that cultural hub, apartments at “La Terrasse” offer verdant terraces with panoramic views of the Han River—and plenty of wall space for an avid art collector. As fashion week season approaches again, which is the world’s most stylish city?