About Riette Jenkins

Riette Jenkins specializes in premium, high-end properties, in Wailea, Makena, North Shore and Upcountry Maui. She has been a Realtor-Broker on Maui since 1988. Recognized as one of Hawaii’s Top 100 Realtors, Riette was with a local Coldwell Banker brokerage for nearly 15 years until 2015 when she had the opportunity to open up a boutique real estate brokerage in Wailea. When that brokerage was purchased by another franchise, she came back to Coldwell Banker Island Properties to spearhead its sales efforts for the Global Luxury division. 

The fact that Riette consistently ranks among Hawaii’s top agents in multi-million dollar sales is directly attributable to her intimate knowledge of the Maui marketplace and her genuine affinity for working with people, buyers and sellers alike. As Riette says, “Most of my clients are friends of my past clients. It’s important to me to make sure they feel they have someone on Maui they can count on to be here for them. Over the years I have built solid relationships with my clients, establishing trust so they feel confident in sending referrals my way.”

Coldwell Banker honors top sales associates in their International Awards & Recognition Program. Among all Coldwell Banker offices, Riette was named the #3 Sales Associate in the State of Hawaii for 2013 for adjusted gross commissions. Riette was also ranked highly in the Western Region in 2008, 2009, 2010, 2012 and 2013. She was given the International President’s Elite Award in 2013 and is also a member of the prestigious Diamond Society and a recipient of the President’s Circle Award. 

Riette Jenkins, past President of the Realtors Association of Maui 2014, was named by Hawaii Business as one of the Top 100 Realtors in the State of Hawaii in 2010, 2011, 2012 and 2103 and in the Top 20 Realtors in the State in 2012.

Highlights

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Los Angeles

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November 30, 2023

Late Designer Erika Brunson’s Gated L.A. Villa Debuts on the Market for Just Under $20 Million

It is rare, indeed, for a property of such significance to come onto the market for the first time, but “Vivenda da Lua” (House of the Moon) is exceptional in every way. Presented by Joyce Rey of Coldwell Banker Realty in Beverly Hills, the stunning Bel Air villa was custom designed by architect Bob Ray Offenhauser for world-renowned designer Erika Brunson as her personal residence. Influenced by Spanish and Portuguese design, the three-story main residence and attached guest suite sit behind gates surrounded by meticulously manicured grounds. Every detail has been lovingly curated for living and entertaining amidst luxurious comfort and aesthetic delight.     A palatial gallery sets the tone with columns of crema marfil marble hand-picked in Spain, a classically styled mural by Douglas Riseborough, and bespoke finishes created by artist Peter Wolfgang. The vision and attention to detail of Erika Brunson herself are on view throughout the property, from the hand-picked, Parisian-sourced fireplaces and solid brass fittings and fixtures to the blue-and-white tiles designed by Brunson herself and fabricated in Portugal. Along with formal and informal living and dining rooms and a spectacular gourmet kitchen, the villa features a temperature-controlled wine room, walnut-finished library, movie theater, Zen room, gym/exercise room and an elevator. The grounds are every bit as picturesque for grand or intimate gatherings, with pool and fireside pavilion, formal gardens and spacious patios for al fresco dining and relaxation. The post Late Designer Erika Brunson’s Gated L.A. Villa Debuts on the Market for Just Under $20 Million appeared first on Coldwell Banker Global Luxury Blog - Luxury Home & Style.

By Alyson Pitarre

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Luxury Real Estate

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November 29, 2023

Las Vegas Raises its International Profile with Car Races, Sphere and a New Luxury High-Rise

Las Vegas has been feeling the heat lately — and it’s not just from the Formula One cars that raced through the Strip just a few weeks ago. Fresh off the $500 million Formula One race, which drew high-net-worth visitors from around the globe, the city recently held a ribbon cutting for the sales experience center of one of its most anticipated high-rise projects yet: the 32-story Cello Tower, which will anchor the mixed-use Origin at Symphony Park, by Red Ridge Development. Designed by architecture firm Perkins Eastman and set to break ground in 2024 with completion slated for the fall of 2026, the 240 luxury residences consist of one- and two-bedroom, some with dens, starting in the upper $700,000s. Pricing for the penthouse suites on the top two floors starts at $4.5 million. “Las Vegas is rising as a top global real estate, entertainment, and sports market,” explains Brian Krueger, senior vice president, strategic services for Coldwell Banker Premier Realty, the exclusive sales partner for the project. “The high-rise condo market in Las Vegas is a bright spot and Cello Tower is the first new residential-only tower in over a decade and will anchor Origin at Symphony Park, the city’s first-of-its-kind walkable/pedestrian-friendly urban living destination.” The project arrives at an opportune time as Las Vegas’ luxury high-rise market has taken off right along with its international profile. “In the last three months (August-October), there were 110 sales of high-rise condos, most a generation old, with 16 closings exceeding $1,000 per square foot in 2023, reaching up to over $1,800 per square foot,” per Krueger. “Vegas is transforming into an international destination for sports and entertainment,” he says. He lists the Formula One race, along with the recent debut of the newly completed one-of-its-kind MSG Sphere, the T-Mobile Arena, the new Allegiant Stadium where the Raiders play, The Smith Center for Performing Arts, located one block from Cello Tower, and new arenas for performances and attractions coming soon. “We view Cello Tower as the next generation of Vegas high rises. When completed, Cello Tower’s unmatched combination of luxury living, safety, and access to culture, sports, and entertainment will make it the epitome of elevated urban living in Las Vegas. There will be nothing else like it in the city.” One Line Design Studio designed the interiors with a mix of rich hues, textures, deep-toned smoked oak floors and smooth eucalyptus wood cabinetry. The penthouses maximize corner exposures and expansive floor-to-ceiling windows framing the views of the city, along with 12- to 14-foot ceilings for a sense of volume. The other residences boast great rooms encompassing 10-foot ceilings and expansive windows revealing the skyline and surrounding mountains, in addition to gourmet chef’s kitchens with oversized waterfall islands, custom millwork and top-of-the line designer appliances. Every residence offers ample walk-in closets and spa-inspired baths with rain showers. More than 40,000 square feet of amenities across three floors, including 25,000 square feet of indoor-outdoor lifestyle spaces and landscape design by Floor Associates, combine to create the Cello Tower lifestyle. On the 7th floor, there’s a unique elevated outdoor environment populated by lush landscaping, a panoramic view and a beautiful fountain. An exhibition kitchen, private dining room and pods for barbecues can be used for entertaining. As for the amenities, those are elevated too: a hyper-oxygenated resort-style pool, TV media wall and pet spa and park. Other amenities like a golf simulator, game room and outdoor cigar lounge with mountain views are destined to keep residents engaged. Meanwhile, the 7,000-square-foot second floor is dedicated to wellness with a full-scale health and wellness club with a functional training area, spin, yoga, personal training, cold plunge, massage and treatment rooms and sauna and steam rooms. Residents can bring in their own trainers, massage therapists and other wellness personnel. Should they ever need to work from home, they have indoor and outdoor private workspaces and conference rooms for their exclusive use. Significant for affluent buyers who will be purchasing a condo at Cello Tower as a secondary residence, the building has been designed for a “lock and leave” lifestyle, with proximity to the airport and a safe, guarded location, adds Krueger. Exclusivity is achieved via a private entry and valet, private parking and 24-hour security and surveillance. As Patrick Brennan, CEO of Red Ridge Development, told the Las Vegas Review-Journal: “People who move into high-rises want to be able to walk outside and be in a safe environment while shopping, eating out and walking their dog close to their home. This has been the missing link to high-rises built in Las Vegas. Symphony Park is the foundation of what a high-rise location should encompass. The city has really matured, and there is growth surrounding Las Vegas but not so much in the center core for residential. As more people move here, it will become more dense with increased traffic. For us, we offer access around the valley with a totally different environment and neighborhood.” Sales for Cello Tower have launched with priority reservations. Register online at originatsymphonypark.com.   The post Las Vegas Raises its International Profile with Car Races, Sphere and a New Luxury High-Rise appeared first on Coldwell Banker Global Luxury Blog - Luxury Home & Style.

By Alyson Pitarre

Editor's Note

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November 29, 2023

Where the Best Lives

The holiday season is officially upon us. For many of us, the holidays are a moment to pause, turn inward and fill our homes with joy, laughter and a bit of flair. It’s our chance to indulge in the finer things in life. Lucky for you, our Coldwell Banker Global Luxury® Property Specialists are experts in the finer things. They live and breathe luxury homes every day, and they encounter the extraordinary products, materials and design elements that elevate a home above others in the marketplace. Now, for the very first time, consumers can benefit from their insights in a whole new way. Next week, we will be launching the “Best of the Best,” a shoppable guide that reflects the year’s most notable luxury home products and trends driven by an exclusive survey of Luxury Property Specialists. Consumers can now bring beauty and value to their own homes by directly shopping the curated collection of on-trend luxury products, thanks to our Luxury Property Specialists. They truly represent the “best of the best,” and the holidays are the perfect time of year to share all of these treasures with your sphere of influence. In our determination to be the best in everything we do, the Coldwell Banker Global Luxury program will also have an entirely new Global Luxury website launching soon. We gave ColdwellBankerLuxury.com a complete makeover with fresh content, expanded imagery and an immersive format for showcasing listings so the site will deliver an experience that feels every bit as “luxury” as our Global Luxury bricks-and-mortar offices worldwide. The Coldwell Banker Global Luxury program continues to embody what it means to be the “best.” It means never being satisfied with what we’ve done. It means continually evolving, improving and transforming who we are, and how we serve our clients. That’s the Coldwell Banker way. After 117 years, it’s gotten us this far.   The post Where the Best Lives appeared first on Coldwell Banker Global Luxury Blog - Luxury Home & Style.

By Alyson Pitarre

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Luxury Real Estate

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November 28, 2023

Four Listings From Aspen to Miami Total Over $126 Million

Whether you’re in the market for a Japanese-inspired contemporary with acreage set against the backdrop of the Colorado Rockies, a waterfront jewel in Miami or an elegant Beverly Hills villa protected by private gates, these inspiring properties — all listed in the last 60 days within the Coldwell Banker Global Luxury program — represent the epitome of modern-day luxury living. Together, they total over $126 million worth of real estate. Aspen Poised on 38 acres of private forest, this $35 million Starwood estate is a sanctuary in every sense of the word. Wrapped in Japanese Shou Sugi Ban wood, the main house stands as an ode to tranquility and nature. Floor-to-ceiling windows look out onto spectacular panoramic views of all four ski mountains, the Elk range peaks, the Roaring Fork Valley and daily sunsets.  The sophisticated interiors, defined by the finest quality finishes imported from Italy and Germany, reveal a comfortable balance of five bedrooms and six bathrooms. An equally stunning 1,485-square-foot guest house complements the main residence. “Just a 15-minute drive from downtown Aspen, this property offers a new paradigm for privacy and mountain luxury. Listed by Christine Rueggeberg of Coldwell Banker Mason Morse Miami Miami’s private guard-gated community “The Moorings” is the setting for this enchanting waterfront Mediterranean oasis in sought-after Coconut Grove. Spanning over 17,800 square feet and priced at $31.5 million, the seven-bedroom residence brings together endless water views, exquisite craftsmanship and detail, plus multiple covered terraces for seamless indoor/outdoor entertaining on 143 feet of waterfront. Highlights include a gourmet eat-in kitchen with oversized island and  top-of-the-line luxury appliances and an elegant primary suite with a sitting room, walk-in closets, and a spa-like bathroom with a roman tub and fireplace. Not to mention amenities galore:  a pool, dock, house Generator, direct access to Biscayne Bay, and a rooftop terrace with views of the Bay. Listed by Judy Zeder and Nathan Zeder of Coldwell Banker Realty in Coral Gables  Beverly Hills Described as “world-class” and a “one-of-a-kind estate,” this Mediterranean Villa is perched on a promontory on over 3.1 acres in the ultra-exclusive 24-hour guard-gated community of Beverly Ridge. A list price just shy of $30 million raises it to ultra-luxury status, even for Beverly Hills. A long, private drive takes you to a grand residence where sunlit interiors evoke the old world with a contemporary twist. Inside, a collection of features and amenities await: a dramatic two-story foyer and a sweeping double staircase, a large living room with bar, office, gourmet kitchen, breakfast room, family room, luxurious dining room with walk-in wine display/cellar, a private theater, an approximately 3,600 square-foot subterranean garage provides parking for seven cars, an informal gym/playroom, an elevator, and two maid’s rooms. The park-like grounds are complemented by a sprawling covered patio, outdoor fire pit, glamorous pool and spa, and breathtaking 360 views that span all the way from the mountains to the ocean. Listed by Jade Mills of Coldwell Banker Realty in Beverly Hills  Pacific Palisades Privacy and exclusivity are only second to the mesmerizing jetliner views in this architectural masterpiece in L.A.’s Pacific Palisades listed for just under $30 million. Panoramas of the Los Padres Mountains sweep all the way to the coastline of Santa Monica Bay and “Queens Necklace” of distant Palos Verdes — which can be glimpsed from the indoor/outdoor living spaces. Hidden and secure within a boutique gated community, the nearly 1-acre estate sits behind its own gates. Inside, over 12,900 square feet of living space unites luxury quality construction from only 2021, with plenty of entertaining spaces ranging from a formal dining room to multiple private patios and an open resort-like pool cabana with a full kitchen, pizza oven and chef’s built-in BBQ/prep layout. Amenities include a full-size movie theatre and convertible Trackman golf simulator. A wellness experience can be enjoyed in the saltwater pool, a fully equipped gym and a world-class spa with a hot and cold plunge, steam room, and sauna. Listed by Joyce Rey of Coldwell Banker Realty in Beverly Hills    The post Four Listings From Aspen to Miami Total Over $126 Million appeared first on Coldwell Banker Global Luxury Blog - Luxury Home & Style.

By Alyson Pitarre

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Miami

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November 20, 2023

Ralph Choeff-Designed Waterfront Contemporary Epitomizes Miami Beach Luxury Living

Architect Ralph Choeff has imprinted this impressive new Hibiscus Island estate with his signature style: perfectly positioned sightlines, expansive glass walls, meticulous finishes and carefully integrated spaces that flow seamlessly between indoors and out. Surrounded by manicured landscaping, the property’s waterfront panorama takes in the Miami skyline and offers a picturesque setting for impressive entertaining and luxurious living. Floor-to-ceiling walls of glass disappear to provide open, pavilion-style spaces for lounging and dining. Exceptional details include a built-in wine display, beautiful custom millwork, soothing water features, a private office and a sleek centerpiece kitchen plus a butler’s pantry/catering kitchen. The home’s seven bedrooms are thoughtfully positioned to offer sumptuous comfort and maximum privacy along with tranquil water and garden views. The grounds are serene and secure, from the gated entry court to the large-vessel private dock. Overlooking the waterway and skyline, patios and outdoor lounges sit alongside an infinity-edge waterfall pool, plunge pool and spa, a summer kitchen dining area and a dockside outdoor living room. With easy access to South Beach, the ocean and all that Miami Beach has to offer, this architectural residence nonetheless feels like a world apart.   The post Ralph Choeff-Designed Waterfront Contemporary Epitomizes Miami Beach Luxury Living appeared first on Coldwell Banker Global Luxury Blog - Luxury Home & Style.

By Alyson Pitarre

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Travel

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November 16, 2023

A New Bill Bensley-Designed Resort in the Himalayas Sets a New Height for Luxury

Robb Report called it “Asia’s Most Hotly Anticipated Opening of the Year,” and for good reason. When Shinta Mani Mustang opened its doors this past August in Nepal, it became the first and only ultra-luxury resort in one of the most unique and preserved regions in the world where one can still experience authentic frozen-in-time Tibetan Buddhist culture. Nestled at an elevation of 2,800 meters in Jomsom, Lower Mustang, Shinta Mani Mustang serves as a gateway to the once Forbidden Kingdom of Upper Mustang. Shinta Mani Mustang | Photo by Elise Hassey The new 29-suite hotel marks Shinta Mani Hotels’ first internationally flagged property outside Cambodia, and it’s nothing short of extraordinary. Envisioned by Bangkok-based architect and hospitality design genius Bill Bensley, Shinta Mani Mustang was inspired by its majestic and spiritual surroundings, and takes full advantage of its elevated position, offering views of landscapes hidden in the Kali Gandaki valley between the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Mountain ranges. Shinta Mani Mustang | Photo by Elise Hassey Commented Bensley: “I have never seen such wildly dramatic landscapes as the mountains and valleys of Mustang, and am thrilled that Shinta Mani can be the first to introduce this mystical land to international adventurers – and all the more so under the special wing of Bensley Collection.” Adds the esteemed designer, “it is the perfect base” for “explorations all around these phenomenal mountains,” whether it’s experiencing Buddhist monasteries and culture, or just enjoying the breathtaking vistas of some of the highest snow-capped peaks in the world, like the formidable Nilgiri Himal. For the hotel itself and the suites, Bensley added his magic touch, incorporating warm-colored fabrics and recycled materials to reflect the rich tones of the surrounding landscape. The result? A unique blend of luxury and sustainability. Constructed in 2017, the original hotel structure, envisioned by Nepalese Architect Prabal Shumsher Thapa, boasts a commitment to sustainable design solutions evident in all his projects.  Outdoors, expansive fire pits on the terrace offer a cozy space for guests to revel in the warmth while marveling at millions of stars as temperatures dip. Inside, each area is adorned with the detailed artwork of the late artist Robert Powell, a close associate of Bensley, known for his intricate depictions of the region’s vernacular architecture. Embracing sustainability, Bensley’s signature upcycling style is on full display, with recycled materials repurposed into unique, new furniture throughout the resort. Living Room, Shinta Mani Mustang | Photo by Elise Hassey Nilgiri Restaurant, Shinta Mani Mustang | Photo by Elise Hassey Aara Bar, Shinta Mani Mustang | Photo by Elise Hassey Aara Bar, Shinta Mani Mustang | Photo by Elise Hassey Knowing that no modern luxury resort experience would be complete without a world-class culinary program, the creators behind Shinta Mani Mustang imagined a food journey that includes the Nilgiri Restaurant, a 60-seat marvel, and the Aara Bar, serving exotic local Tibetan/Sherpa liquor. Wellness takes center stage with a Tibetan wellness program developed by a local 11th-generation Tibetan Amchi Doctor and a Wellness Center, where guests will find two treatment suites with floor-to-ceiling windows facing the mountains; each with a hot plunge pool, steam room, sauna, shower and two massage beds. Wellness Center, Shinta Mani Mustang | Photo by Elise Hassey Wellness Center, Shinta Mani Mustang | Photo by Elise Hassey Guests are in for a treat with a personalized guest experience program. Trekking, horse riding, rock climbing, cycling, and more await, guided by experienced Bensley Adventure Guides. Plus, in line with Shinta Mani’s commitment to giving back, the resort collaborates with the Pasang Lhamu Foundation, focusing on education, vocation training, health, and immediate assistance. Reaching this Himalayan paradise involves a choice between international flights to Kathmandu, a scenic road trip, or a helicopter charter directly to the resort. The adventure begins with a stay in Kathmandu before embarking on a journey to Jomsom. Rates for this all-inclusive experience start at USD 1,800 net per couple per night, with a minimum 5-night consecutive stay. Inclusions range from suite accommodation and all meals to private guided excursions, spa treatments, and more. The height of luxury, indeed. The post A New Bill Bensley-Designed Resort in the Himalayas Sets a New Height for Luxury appeared first on Coldwell Banker Global Luxury Blog - Luxury Home & Style.

By Alyson Pitarre

Home of the Week

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November 10, 2023

This Vegas Custom Home is a Modernist Dream with Over One Acre of Indoor/Outdoor Living, Two Pools and a Casita

Perfectly situated to enjoy majestic vistas, this modernist masterpiece is spacious, open and filled with natural light. Designed and built by renowned luxury homebuilder Blue Heron, the estate overlooks the 10th hole of the Summit Club golf course, the sparkling lights of the Las Vegas Strip and the distinctive contours of distant hillsides. Refined, elegant spaces and superior construction and finishes blend to create an ideal setting for splendid relaxation and impressive entertaining. The premium corner lot of approximately 1.16 acres is gorgeously landscaped for year-round indoor-outdoor living. From the tranquil living and dining areas, vanishing walls of glass open onto a resort-like backyard complete with two infinity-edge pools, an outdoor kitchen with pizza oven and bar seating, fireside lounge, and expansive lawn and deck space for dining, recreation and star-gazing. The kitchen is lavishly equipped with top-of-the-line appliances and one wall of the adjacent dining area comprises a temperature-controlled wine display. Additional spaces include a media room/library and a gym. The main house has three en-suite bedrooms, including a serene and spacious primary suite. This private retreat is complete with a patio lounge, direct access to its own spa, a luxurious spa-style bath with dual showers in an outdoor oasis, expansive walk-in closets and a private office. Above it all, a huge roof deck with a large entertainer’s bar, fire feature and comfortable seating looks out onto a panorama of rolling hills and city lights. This remarkable estate also includes a private, attached, five-bedroom, four-bath casita to complement the most generous hospitality. Summit Club residence includes 24-hour security and concierge services, golf and clubhouse opportunities, plus easy access to an array of hiking and biking trails and all the excitement and glamor of the Las Vegas lifestyle. View the complete listing by Lillie Shines of Coldwell Banker Premier Realty in Henderson.   The post This Vegas Custom Home is a Modernist Dream with Over One Acre of Indoor/Outdoor Living, Two Pools and a Casita appeared first on Coldwell Banker Global Luxury Blog - Luxury Home & Style.

By Alyson Pitarre

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Just Listed

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November 10, 2023

These Two Spec Mansions Coming to Market in 2024 Prove Why ‘New’ is So ‘Now’

New construction seems to be on every affluent homebuyer’s wishlist these days. Whether they want the benefit of being able to personalize every detail down to the custom cabinetry or the immediacy of something completely finished, “new” is the “now” word for homeshoppers who simply don’t want to settle for anything less than perfect. Could these two recently listed modern masterpieces, slated to be completed in 2024 and priced over $30 million, be the spec to their spectacular? Let’s take a closer look. 1400 W Lake Dr Fort Lauderdale FL. $34,995,000 Set in Harbor Beach — one of Fort Lauderdale’s most prestigious gated communities and offering stunning views of Lake Sylvan and downtown city lights, this East Point trophy property delivers it all: approximately 250 feet of deep water dockage, three breathtaking floors of the finest Italian finishes, seven bedrooms, a wellness center/gym, office, rooftop lounge with bar, media room, a game room, plus a trove of resort and wellness amenities to keep you endlessly fulfilled, from multiple pools, a hot/cold plunge pool, sauna/steam showers, and an outstanding summer kitchen with bar and a dining area, all surrounded by serene waterfalls and fire features. Listed by Timothy Schirripa of Coldwell Banker Realty in Coral Springs, Florida 9650 Cedarbrook Dr. Beverly Hills CA. $68,000,000 Within the new construction category, the compound might as well be its own niche. This monumental 27.5-acre gated offering in Beverly Hills might very well create a new standard for modern luxury compounds. Set on its own promontory, it offers supreme privacy and views, which extend to the Pacific Ocean and span to the hills, canyons and dazzling city lights. The main residence itself is planned for approximately 55,000 square feet with four levels designed to maximize the views with massive floor-to-ceiling windows and countless glass doors leading to outdoor patios, decks and vanishing-edge pools. A 36-person theater, a Turkish bath, a wine cellar with a tasting room, a hot yoga room and staff offices and quarters, and a 6,000 square-foot auto collector’s garage are additional perks. Plans for the second residence include approximately 23,000 square feet and a private garage of about 3,018 square feet. A combined total of 19 bedrooms and 33 baths are featured, and both homes have plans for elevators, bowling lanes, gyms, lounges, chef-worthy kitchens, and only the finest finishes, fixtures, and state-of-the-art smart home and security systems. There are also plans for a third house. Listed by Jade Mills and Gene Bush of Coldwell Banker Realty in Beverly Hills  The post These Two Spec Mansions Coming to Market in 2024 Prove Why ‘New’ is So ‘Now’ appeared first on Coldwell Banker Global Luxury Blog - Luxury Home & Style.

By Alyson Pitarre

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Design

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November 8, 2023

Eiffel Tower, Hawaii, or Central Park? LiquidView’s Virtual Windows Make Famed Views Possible From Anywhere

It’s the purple that gets you. At dusk, when the sun starts to melt into the horizon, the sea and sky are transformed into a magnificent palette of sherbet hues, with a wide swath draped in lilac and violet. It’s always been your dream to have a view like this. But your life is in Dallas, hundreds of miles from an ocean. That’s just the kind of challenge LiquidView aims to solve. The San Francisco-based content/interior design company’s virtual windows can make your landlocked home look, sound, and feel like it’s right on the sand, in Hawaii. Or The Hamptons. Your condo can peer out over the undulating waves of the Atlantic Ocean instead of your neighbor’s cluttered kitchen. You can supplement your annual jaunts to Paris with a daily, and nightly, view of the Eiffel Tower. You can even turn the wall of your living room into an exquisite showcase of Central Park at its fall leaf-peeping peak. Photo by: Sander Olson | Photo Courtesy: LiquidView The New York shoot, the latest edition to LiquidView’s ever-expanding content library, was done from a 32nd-floor terrace suite of the JW Marriott Essex House New York —an ideal setting in which to capture the nuances of the city over 24 hours because it showcases both the park and Midtown city lights. Location scouting is the most significant challenge involved in creating the virtual windows, says Mitch Braff, the company’s founder and CEO, because the setting must have visual interest around the clock. “We location scout to find one view that looks fantastic for 24 hours. That’s not an easy feat,” he says. “We’ve been scouting in Aspen, where the mountains are beautiful but there’s not a lot that looks great at night. So, we have to find another location that looks great during both, without moving the camera.” Photo Courtesy: LiquidView The 24-hour views, which are created from 35 total hours or filming, provide a more realistic “window” to the world. Wind, sky, lighting changes, the occasional visiting animal, perhaps — they all become part of the package. Everything is shot in 8K by a small camera crew on a Sony Venice 2 motion picture camera, the same one used to shoot Avatar 2, says Braff. Then, the footage is edited down, color-corrected, and the sound captured on site (waves crashing, birds chirping) is integrated to complete the fully immersive experience. The finished product is inset in the wall to look like a real architectural window as opposed to being hung on the wall like a TV. It’s also synched to the local time and programmed to fluctuate as days get longer or shorter. Pricing ranges depending on the size of the window, the window casing, and the different types of content packaging, says Braff. “At the low end, a smaller window could be $7,000, and $100,000 for multiple larger windows. Photo by: Mitch Tobias | Photo Courtesy: LiquidView The idea for LiquidView developed while Braff, a filmmaker, was working with a client on a prior business venture in San Francisco. “The client had a beautiful home in Pacific Heights, with gorgeous views in the back, but neighbors on the side of the house,” he says. “I remember thinking, ‘What can we do when he doesn’t have a view?’ I realized I could create something in the wall that would look like a window depending on how we framed it.” Partnering with renowned innovation firm IDEO helped bring the concept to life. “Now, all of a sudden, we could add a window where no window existed, and we’re not limited by the physical constraints of the building,” he says. “It’s very different — something tha1t’s never been done before.” The company has since1450 showcased LiquidView windows in large trade shows like InfoComm and CEDIA and created pop-ups for hands-on demonstrations across the country; continued to seek out new locations, add to its content library (next up: Nashville and Miami), and field requests for custom locations; and completed installations in both residential and commercial properties. But their plans remain grander than the views. Photo Courtesy: LiquidView “The dream is to put this into millions of commercial and residential spaces in places where people have no views or terrible views: commercial offices trying to bring people into work; commercial-to-residential conversions that are challenged because they don’t have windows; hospitals, life and science facilities, retirement homes, spas, and gyms,” he says, noting the importance of the health and wellbeing angle. “Stanford is doing a study on the neurobiological health benefits of windows. There are so many spaces in our lives that don’t have views, windows and light; we can change that. The possibilities are infinite.” The post Eiffel Tower, Hawaii, or Central Park? LiquidView’s Virtual Windows Make Famed Views Possible From Anywhere appeared first on Coldwell Banker Global Luxury Blog - Luxury Home & Style.

By Alyson Pitarre

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A modern expression of luxury real estate, Coldwell Banker Global Luxury aligns the power and recognition of the Coldwell Banker brand with the experience and stellar reputation of an agent base that consistently strives to exceed the expectations of even the most discerning clientele.

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