Victoria, British Columbia’s Capital City, is located on the beautiful Vancouver Island in Canada. From the minute your plane touches down, your lungs will expand and relish healthy, fresh, ocean-circulated air.
Here you can enjoy boating, beaches, world-class shopping and a super natural environment.
Looking to settle down in Victoria?
Check out this Unique listing!
Victoria boasts a spectacular setting of ocean and mountain vistas and offers numerous economic, cultural and recreational opportunities.
Victoria has the mildest climate in Canada and with greenery in evidence throughout the year there is little wonder that it’s called the City of Gardens!
The Inner Harbour is the heart of Victoria and for many boaters is the gateway to the City of Gardens. Bordering the harbour are the ivy-covered Fairmont Empress hotel, the world-renowned Royal British Columbia Museum and the magnificent BC Parliament Buildings.
UPLANDS ESTATES in Oak Bay | Victoria, British Columbia
Privately nestled at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac, away from all drive-through traffic, this rare artisan creation awaits. 9,878 square feet of interior luxury living. 1,745 square feet of exquisite patio entertaining areas including a full outdoor kitchen and gas fire pit. All with .71 acres of surrounding, ever-changing flowering gardens and trees highlighted by a meandering river and waterfalls. This is the first time this property has been offered for sale since completion in 2012. Visit the website for Floor Plans, Video, 3D Renderings & 100+ Photos. $6,995,000
Listing provided by Cathy Duncan.
Cathy & Associates Ltd. | cathy@cathyduncan.com | 250.888.9343
Kim Walker Chin, MBA, REALTOR
Coldwell Banker Realty | Serving Cambridge, Somerville, Boston & Beyond
617.817.1593 | Kwalkerchin@gmail.com | Instagram: @kimwalkerchin | Facebook: /kimwalkerchin
Kim has a 6th sense for finding the right home or investment for her clients. She listens and pays close attention to her clients needs. Kim has a down to earth personality matched with intelligence. She will patiently guide you through the process of buying or selling your home or investment. She did her graduate undergraduate work in the area and has been a Cambridge resident since 1990.
Featured Property: Cambridge, MA
10 Rogers Street, Penthouse 2 | This one-of-a-kind, oversized, bi-level penthouse feels like a floating home above it all — a must-see with spectacular panoramic views of the Charles River and Boston Skyline! With two patios and every amenity, this is an incomparable indoor-outdoor entertainment experience. $3,200,000.
Kim Walker Chin originally appeared as an Elite agent in Unique Homes Spring ’21: Elite edition. See the ad here.
Inspired by various cultures around the world, this perfectly crafted, custom-built home exudes luxury. Priced at $1.15 million and located in Plano, Texas, 5317 Catamaran Drive features four bedrooms, four full baths, an office and a remarkable outdoor space.
Elegance and comfort can be found throughout the home, each room blending the two elements seamlessly. The seller, who travelled and worked around the world, wanted to bring pieces of each culture that they saw and kept in mind into the design of this home. From the Greco-Roman inspired front entry, to a Thai culture-inspired kitchen and family room, the story of each room can be felt and admired throughout.
The chef’s kitchen is fully equipped with modern appliances and boasts custom-painted kitchen cabinets and a full wet bar. Don’t miss little details in the home, such as the wet bar that features accent pieces from Walt Disney World’s Swiss Family Robinson’s Tree House.
“A part of the classic style of this immaculate home is the ability to adapt the space to your desire. No detail was overlooked, from the luxury features to the graceful and seamless connection of the interior through the sublime exterior spaces,” says listing agent Mark Bradford with Coldwell Banker Realty in Dallas-Fort Worth.
On the first floor, the living room and Egyptian-inspired master bedroom connect to the outdoor area, which is perfect for entertaining guests. Take a dip in the diving pool or sit under the covered deck. The space also features a jetted tub and gazebo area. The property sits on half an acre and offers plenty of privacy with the lush and beautiful landscaping.
For more information, please contact Mark Bradford at mark.bradford@cbdfw or 214.395.2999.
Photos courtesy of Mark Bradford.
Craftsmanship and design combine with state-of-the-art construction in this four-story home — built by Silva Brothers Construction and designed by Bechtel, Frank, Erickson architects — in one of Lexington, Massachusetts’ finest neighborhoods, Merriam Hill.
“It has an aura of grandness, impeccable taste, and a quality rare in newer homes,” says listing agent Lester Savage of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Commonwealth Real Estate, who is listing the property for $3.75 million. “In particular, the kitchen and family room have extraordinary warmth and intimacy, with a heart-of-the-home design.”
The lower level rooms include a play stage, wine grotto, media room and playroom.
“The home emits comfort with a south-facing eating area overlooking a tranquil, spacious yard and bluestone patio area,” says Savage.
The estate has easy access to Lexington Center, town conservation areas, and the Minuteman Bikeway.
Photo courtesy of Krissy Preble.
When it comes to kitchens, the popularity of all things smart and sanitary is soaring, as consumers gravitate toward antimicrobial features.
Almost a sous chef, innovative, hands-free faucets such as U by Moen fill pots with exact amounts of hot or cold water or anything in between.
Seemingly overnight, touchless faucets, easy-open drawers and an ever-growing array of kitchen tech morphed from “nice-to-have” amenities to “must-haves” as the desire for cleanliness and safety eclipsed convenience.
Indoor air quality, purified water and clean surfaces rank high with consumers. Before the pandemic, interest in wellness at home was on the rise; now, amenities that bring a hygienic benefit, particularly in the kitchen, top wellness demands. A desire for simplification with easy-to-clean cabinets and counters along with healthy living are micro themes expected to steer product development and design in the future, according to the National Kitchen and Bath Association.
Even trusted materials such as wood, cork and brass are now considered for their capacity to shed germs or resist contamination. “All our faucets are solid brass construction and therefore, by the very nature of the metal, have additional antimicrobial properties,” points out Noah Taft, senior vice president of marketing and sales at California Faucets, noting the benefit of brass over less costly materials
Pure Water
As the desire for healthy homes builds, so does interest in water quality. Filtration has become an important focus, according to experts at Kohler, who say more than 75 percent of customers already take measures to filter their drinking water. In January, Kohler introduced a four-stage reverse osmosis purification system designed to fit in the cabinet under the kitchen sink. The system reduces contaminants, including lead, mercury, chlorine, bacteria, virus, arsenic, copper, fluoride and more. With a capacity of 27.5 gallons per day, it would replace approximately 200, 16.9 oz. bottles of water.
Water Appliance
Sinks used to be, well, just sinks, until Rohl and other manufacturers elevated the status to “water appliance.” According to estimates, the kitchen sink used to be frequented 10 to 30 times a day. Now, after weeks of sheltering at home and a hyper-focus on handwashing, the sink is getting more use than ever and receiving lots of scrutiny regarding design, ease of use and even appearance.
“Kitchen sinks and faucets are on the front lines of keeping a home clean and safe — used continuously for food preparation, hand and dishwashing,” says Edyta Drutis, director, brand and communications, at Blanco North America. Blanco’s Silgranit stone-like sink material is nonporous, resistant to stains, scratches, chips, acid and heat. Acting as a shield against dirt and contaminants, it reduces bacterial growth by 98 percent. The hydrophobic surface pushes away dirt and water, so it drains easily and cleans with soap and water or baking soda.
When it comes to sinks, bigger continues to be better. Even before the pandemic, experts at the National Kitchen and Bath Association noted increased demand for large sinks to accommodate tasks as diverse as washing fresh produce and jumbo pans, to babies and the
occasional pup.
More Power Per Drop
Look for faucets designed to do more than deliver water. Lenova introduced a model that takes washing produce or the dog’s bowl to the next level by integrating ozone into the flow. Recognized as a safe, non-toxic way to kill viruses, bacteria, mold, yeast and algae within seconds of contact, aqueous ozone has been extensively tested and clinically proven, according to Lenova. Not only does it sanitize surfaces, but it can be used to wash produce, and it even removes pesticides.
Adding more cleaning power to each drop, particularly for sprays, is another objective for manufacturers. Kohler recently introduced options such as a faucet sprayer with nozzles aligned to create a forceful blade of water to sweep away stuck-on food. Another, a soft spray, preps berries without bruising. Moen optimized its sprays to deliver 50 percent more spray power while containing the splash — great for messy pots and messy hands.
Look Ma, No Hands!
Touch-free faucets have been around for a few years. In the first versions, sensors would activate the flow in response to a motion. Then, voice control was added. The most recent innovation enables homeowners to activate faucets via Alexa or Google Home. Turning the water on and off is only part of what U by Moen — a Best of KBIS 2020 winner — delivers. Instead, it can fill a baby bottle with just the right amount of water at the right temperature or load a pasta pot with precisely four quarts of hot water, freeing the cook for other tasks. Metered dispensing ranges from one tablespoon to 15 gallons, and temperature commands can be exact degrees or merely hot or cold. “Baby bottle” and other customizable presets simplify commands.
Hard As Glass
“Glass tiles are not porous and do not possess characteristics that allow or promote the growth or life of microbes, bacteria, or germs,” explains Jim Stevens, brand manager for Lunada Bay Tile. “Keep in mind that the grout between each tile is porous and does not have these same characteristics. However, grout is usually set down, below the top surface of the tiles, so direct contact is less likely. And grout could be sealed with an antimicrobial sealer to create a safe and sanitary surface.”
Glass tiles, which are nonporous, also mesmerize.
Nestled in one of Holmdel, NJ’s most desirable neighborhoods, this home is positioned on 1.4 private acres. The brick masterpiece is adorned with a brand new roof and over 6,000 square feet of extraordinary quality and design. Fine details include a stunning two-story foyer, grand staircase, sun-drenched palladian windows, ornate moldings, wide plank hardwood floors and palatial ceilings.
“This home is perfect for anyone looking for a luxurious and private residence offering the finest amenities,” says listing agent Doreen DeMarco of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Fox & Roach.
The home features a living room with French doors; an intimate library with a hand-painted mural and marble fireplace; a gourmet kitchen; and a main-floor master bedroom suite with high ceilings and a beautiful marble bath area equipped with a cedar sauna. There are also unsurpassed views of the backyard oasis and it is a true show stopper.
“The 2,500 square feet of outdoor terraces overlooking the stunning pool and resort-like grounds truly make this home one-of-a-kind,” says DeMarco.
The home, listed for $1.449 million, is in a prime location close to all New York City transportation, local shopping and Jersey Shore beaches.
Stunning Bay Views!
Commanding wide angle vistas are ever present from this superbly elevated Sausalito hillside home. Most interior rooms are appointed with large view windows framing sailboats in the Sausalito Marina, the Mill Valley hills, and spectacular skyline panoramas. The continuous change of colors throughout the days and changing seasons, provides a joyous ambiance year round.
The first floor, with easy access from the street and carport, consists of delightful public rooms flooded with light through wall of windows. Pristine hardwood floors compliment this level, an ideal space for entertaining with viewing deck attached. The large dining area adjoins the living room with newly installed gas fireplace and hearth. The adjacent kitchen is highlighted with all new appliances and sunny breakfast area. A well placed powder room serves guests.
Lower level with 3 Bedrooms, 2 baths features panoramic bay views and attached exterior deck.
Master bedroom with en suite bath and walk-in closet.
2 Additional bedrooms and 1 full bath.
Workshop level presents potential for expansion.
4-car parking deck.
Price: $1,949,000
For more information, contact:
Jean Mastagni – CalRE #00479256
Anna Roberts – CalRE #00854780
Christine Aldrete Banks
Re/Max Preferred
210.570.9530 / Cell: 830.279.8678 | christine@stoneoakliving.com www.stoneoakliving.com
Christine’s expertise spans more than 30 years, with accolades such as, CERTIFIED LUXURY HOME MARKETING SPECIALIST, plus Accredited Luxury Home Specialist, and Resort Second-Home Property Specialist, among others. She has exclusive reach through a network of luxury providers, to the high net-worth and international clientele. She delivers a boutique approach to executive listings, along with concierge buyer representation, in Stone Oak and North San Antonio. Additionally, Christine expertly represents Resort and Second-Home Property buyers and sellers, in the Texas Hill Country and the Texas Gulf Coast regions.
Christine Presents: SPYGLASS ON THE ISLAND, Prestigious Town Homes in
Corpus Christi, Texas
Spyglass, where you deserve to come home to this summer, is pre-selling now at SpyglassOnTheIsland.com.
About the Property
Sophisticated Hamptons Styling! Well appointed homes on Padre Island with natural stone, barn doors, carriage house lanterns, walk-in showers, pedestal sinks, plantation shutters and illuminated balconies. Savvy floor plans with 1250 sq. ft, 2 bedrooms and 2.5 baths. Two-story townhomes located just steps from the neighborhood park and boat launch. Fee simple ownership, not condominium. A terrific opportunity to own new town homes in Corpus Christi on one of the last remaining lots in Ports O’Call!
- Bedrooms : 2
- Bathrooms: 2.5
- Square feet: 1250
- Quartz/Granite Counter Tops
- Barn Doors
- Carriage House Lanterns
- Walk-in Showers
- Stainless Steel Appliance Package
- Pedestal Sinks
- Plantation Shutters
- Private Balconies
- 10 Foot Ceilings
About the Neighborhood
Explore the treasures of the Texas Gulf Coast, from surfing, to sailing, to sand castles. Dive in to extreme sports, family fun, and romantic sunsets! Miles of undisturbed Texas beaches and charming island shops beckon year-round. Look no further for the most stylish new town homes on Padre Island. Spyglass, the newest development in Ports O’ Call, a deed restricted community, is ideally located, surrounded by deep water canals, a short drive over the causeway from:
- Deep Sea Fishing
- Casual Restaurants
- Boutique Shopping
- The Corpus Christi Marina
- Fine Dining
- Sailboat Regattas
- Live Music
- Sunset Dinner Cruises and Dolphin Watches
- Water Sport and Watercraft Rentals and Charters
- Historical Monuments
Christine Aldrete Banks originally appeared as an Elite agent in the Unique Homes Spring ’20: Elite edition. See her pages here.
The finest property in Portugal, in the most prestigious location in the country, has been put on the market – and it could be yours!
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Portugal offers Quinta de Lago, one of the most exciting and exclusive resorts in Europe, boasting some of the most spectacular and beautiful villas in the Algarve. Founded in 1972, this 800-acre residential estate borders miles of golden coast along the Atlantic Ocean, with views of sprawling pine forests and some of the world’s top golf courses. You can rest assured this area will remain pristine, with a strict 8 percent building restriction as part of the UNESCO Ria Formosa bird sanctuary, ensuring your investment will prosper for years to come.
On over 44,000 square feet of land, with over 16,000 square feet of living space, this 8 bedroom villa includes high-quality kitchens with full equipment, a 4-level glass electric elevator, and full fitness equipment. Enjoy a movie with friends and family in the 12-person theater with 4 Control system touchpanels, and Lutron light switches and thermostats. A wine gallery freezer in the basement is stocked with top Portugeuese wines and champagne, and drinks can be enjoyed in the basement bar lounge.
.Six indoor and outdoor gas fireplaces provide ambience, and the villa is decorated with top indoor and outdoor furnishings. Enjoy the luxurious outdoors with 3 heated pools and an outside lounge, and top garden Quinta landscaping. With spectacular views, amazing amenities and dazzling details, this luxurious villa is sure to impress. €20,000,000
Photos courtesy of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Portugal.
Travel through time and admire seven handcrafted designs in the New World Collection designed by Sasha Bikoff for New Ravenna, America’s premier mosaic designer and manufacturer.
The historical journey begins in the 17th century with Atlas Major, a charming rendition of Dutch cartographer Joan Bleu’s Baroque geography. The aged appearance of a crinkled, antique map was replicated by New Ravenna’s design team applying a honed finish to the 12 different stones, and then selecting a darker grout to finish the piece.
From the 17th century, we move to the modern world and the quintessential American textile pattern: the bandana.
“Tile is a cultural emblem that represents a country’s aesthetic. There are unlimited beautiful tiles that feel Italian, Delft, Portuguese, Spanish. America’s history is younger and the culture has a more relaxed vibe. I’d like to define that through tile,” Bikoff says.
The iconic bandana print is available in two versions: East Coast and West Coast. A honed background was chosen by Bikoff and New Ravenna to give the allure of softened cotton, and grout lines and paisleys mimic the cloth’s permanent creases from being worn and folded hundreds of times.
To contrast the bandana design, three delicate lace designs, Point d’Angleterre Lace, Queen Mary’s Lace, and Swiss Dot Lace bring in the gentle femininity found in women’s garments and home textiles to the collection.
Designer, Sasha Bikoff
“The lace is a juxtaposition to the bandana prints and offers the same playful idea of turning a textile into a tile mosaic,” Bikoff adds.
The designs, inspired by the complexity of antique lace, include honed and tumbled stone to create texture, and differing grout colors to highlight the intricate webbing. The New World collection is as versatile as it is beautiful, and can be installed on walls and floors, indoors and out. Add a splash of color and a dash of design to your home with help from New Ravenna.
Photos and featured image courtesy of New Ravenna