Built in Connecticut in 1775, the original residence making up The Barnes House was moved to its current Peacham, Vermont location in 1988 - giving insight into the importance of this distinctive home and extraordinary setting. Carefully moved and reconstructed on over 72 gorgeous and protected acres, the home was rebuilt to retain its original charm and also include modern amenities.

The amazing project didn’t stop with just one relocation – the home was enlarged with a gambrel-style home from western Massachusetts and a neighboring Vermont barn was later added and now serves as a two-car garage with finished space above.

In the over 4,000 square feet of living area are 3 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, 5 fireplaces, a large open European-style kitchen and a formal dining room in the former keeping room. All this and much more amid period appeal with stone flooring and original softwood with square nails and plaster walls.

Landscaped gardens and terraces look over the pastoral countryside and surrounding woodlands creating a unity with nature. Crafted with influence from several different places, The Barnes House is a singular special residence currently being listed for sale at $850,000 by Luxury Portfolio member Lang McLaughry Spera, affiliate of Lion & Davis.

Easily recognized through steeply pitched roofs and exterior timber frame walls, Tudor Revival homes resemble a medieval castle, yet exude the old world charm of an English country cottage. Originating in England, the style gained popularity in America in the 1920s and 30s with homes constructed in prominent communities throughout the country. Popularity grew with new construction techniques that could replicate the exteriors of 15th century English homes, and while originally built by the super-wealthy for their sprawling estates, the style has trickled down to include luxury homes on a variety of scales.

Constructed with materials that create an air of nobility, Tudor style luxury homes give a sense of weight and a timeless feeling as if they’ve been standing regally forever. Inside, past an arched doorway and entry hall, Tudors typically boast large stone fireplaces, ample wood paneling, vaulted ceilings and curved staircases that create warm, inviting spaces. Additional features also include:

• Multi-gabled, steep roof lines
• Half timber framing
• Tall, narrow windows
• Large chimneys
• Decorative entryways

An enduring and recognizable symbol of elegance, there are several luxury Tudor homes from all eras available today. Designed by renowned architect David Adler and built in 1929, a historic Tudor estate in Hillsborough, California has been gloriously restored. The 35,000 square feet of living space includes 12 bedrooms, 15 total baths and a Music Room that has hosted galas for sitting US Presidents and foreign dignitaries, including Ronald Reagan, George H.W. Bush and Margaret Thatcher. The momentous estate is currently on the market for $29 million.

Built in 1990 in the prestigious Old Preston Hollow neighborhood of Dallas, a newer construction Tudor still exudes the style’s classic charm. Priced at $3.995 million, the magnificent home features 5 bedrooms – including a downstairs master – and extensive outdoor living with patios, pool and spa, tennis court, and pergola with fireplace and outdoor kitchen.

Valentine’s Day is around the corner and stores and online shopping carts everywhere are full of seasonal gifts for loved ones, including the omnipresent offerings of chocolate. Whether for that special someone, a family member or dear friend, chocolate treats are appreciated this - or any time - of year.

The beloved indulgence is just as popular as ever, and the latest edition of the LuxeTrends® newsletter highlights some our favorite ways to enjoy luxurious chocolate delicacies. Click the link to read about artisan created confections, delightful sweets with interesting ingredients and even fine chocolate drinks to spark some ideas for your sweetie or anyone who appreciates exceptional goodies.

March 22-24 at the fabulous Waldorf Astoria Orlando, Luxury Portfolio International will be hosting its annual SUMMIT for top sales associates and luxury marketing professionals. The exclusive event for Luxury Portfolio members provides insights on luxury homes, lifestyles and trends to help professionals better serve their elite clientele.

The program will feature prominent speakers including keynote speaker Robert Frank, one of the country's leading authorities on wealth and philanthropy, Dr. Jim Taylor, vice chairman of Harrison Group, who will share insights and sales opportunities for those serving the affluent, word-of-mouth marketing expert Spike Jones, as well as many of the top brokers and agents from around the world.

There’s still time for Luxury Portfolio agents and brokers to register and join us for this MEMBERS ONLY EVENT to network, learn and enjoy an elegant luxury resort. The early bird deadline is quickly approaching (February 10) - see more details and register at summit2012.luxuryportfolio.com.

Situated on over three private acres offering full views of the San Francisco Bay, this Woodside, California home combines its positioning with fascinating contemporary architecture.

Showcasing an abstract contemporary feel, the home’s style draws inspiration from renowned architect Richard Meier. An advocate of a pure form of modernism, Meier’s impressive credits include the Barcelona Museum of Contemporary Art and The Getty Center in Los Angeles among many others.

That influence is reflected in the home’s striking white color and towering walls of glass oriented toward the stunning views. Also designed to withstand a magnitude 8.3 earthquake under the supervision of the original owner, a well-known structural engineer, 140,000 pounds of steel were used in construction.

Lush grounds are just as impressive with a striking terraced design with a “living rooftop” over the lower level, infinity edge pool and spa and green expanses. Inside are a two-story living room, customized library and office, and three bedroom suites on the upper level. Two multi-room apartments on the lower level are connected by a glass-enclosed courtyard positioned perfectly for poolside entertaining.

This amazing home is currently listed at $14.8 million by Luxury Portfolio member Alain Pinel Realtors.

Whaling Captain William T. Swain arrived in Nantucket in 1883, becoming a prominent lumber merchant and builder. He selected the large elevated lot at 76 Main Street – just steps from the center of town and the site of the original Hicksite Quaker meeting house – as the location for his family home.

At the desirable site, he built a Victorian mansion showcasing superior craftsmanship and boasting two porches overlooking Main Street – a definitive symbol of status seen from the passing carriages below.

Through the generations this special luxury property has undergone several changes – it once was even a prestigious inn for local guests. The current owner has improved and refurbished many details, including an extensive stonework update and garden plantings. With its outside appearance renewed, finishes repaired and systems replaced and restored, this historic home is a truly unique opportunity. It is currently listed at $4.995 million by Luxury Portfolio member J Pepper Frazier Company.

The eclectic contemporary style is born largely from building styles of the current time that help evoke spaciousness and a connection to nature. At times unconventional, contemporary homes often mix cutting edge materials with natural traditions.

The style rose to prominence in the 1950s on the heels of the post-modernist movement and coincided with rapid technological advancement. Luxury contemporary homes mix new technology and recycled composite components with (often locally sourced) classic building materials. Innovation is a common theme with a commitment to energy efficiency and conserving the surrounding environment. The connection to nature is often also seen in towering walls of glass, open spaces and undefined rooms that create a sense of flow and spaciousness. Terraces, patios and al fresco dining areas are readily accessible and part of an overall integrated design. Additional features of contemporary homes also include:

• Clean lines
• Flat roofs
• Abundance of natural light
• Open entertaining spaces
• Sustainable materials

The style’s popularity has endured and evolved with the times and current building practices, and several contemporary luxury homes currently on the market around the world showcase the chic style. A stunning villa just east of Marbella, Spain takes advantage of its location in the coveted residential area of Los Monteros Estate. The 6 bedroom, 6 bath home has an open floor plan where the kitchen opens onto a front patio and into the living room, which has its own access to the large pool patio overlooking the beautiful surroundings.

Set on a private knoll with some of the most stunning views in Los Angeles, a celebrity owned contemporary home is a truly unique private sanctuary. Completely remodeled, the home features 4 bedrooms, 4.5 baths and over 5,200 square feet of space that flows together seamlessly for luxurious indoor/outdoor living. These open spaces, high ceilings and dazzling pool area complete the perfect contemporary picture.

Colorado resorts are opening and the ski equipment is coming out of storage as locals and tourists start to hit the slopes. Though certainly ideal places to live year-round, Vail and Aspen have each had recent notable luxury home sales just in time for new owners to enjoy the gorgeous winter season.

Last listed at $10.9 million by Slifer Smith & Frampton Real Estate, this stunning mountain contemporary home is situated at Vail Golf Course and boasts commanding views of Gore Range. The architectural masterpiece is a rare private sanctuary with easy access to the village restaurants and entertainment. Expertly designed and built, there is flawless detailing throughout, including in the huge great room and dining area, gourmet kitchen, large master suite, private study and two-tiered media room.

Southwest of Vail in Aspen, another recently sold home exudes a different kind of impressive contemporary style. Situated on the main road to town, the award-winning luxury residence features environmentally conscious rammed-earth walls as well as walls of glass to connect the home to its majestic surroundings. Additional features of the five bedroom, six bath custom created work of art are pitched high ceilings, modern lighting, wine room, full gym and gorgeous Japanese-inspired Zen gardens. The home was last listed at $10.75 million by Joshua & Co.

The holidays are upon us and this week and continuing throughout the season, family and friends will be getting together for good company and celebratory feasts. The thought of these gatherings inspired us to showcase some of the most extraordinary dining rooms featured on LuxuryPortfolio.com.

From a city retreat in Manhattan to an exotic Hawaiian feel, you may draw some inspiration from these luxury dining rooms while prepping your holiday meal and décor. Check out the below slideshow for a few of our favorites – for more information on the featured properties, search the Web ID from the Luxury Portfolio homepage.

A deep-rooted style originating in New Mexico and Arizona, Pueblo Revival architecture borrows heavily from the dwellings of Pueblo Indians, with additional influences from Spanish settlers. History of the American Southwest can be traced in earthen materials and hues used in the structure and design of the homes.

The distinct pueblo style came to prominence in the region as not only a nod to Native American heritage, but as a means of coping with the hot climate – and doing it with subdued flair. Sheltered courtyards incorporate outdoor living and casual lifestyle, while thick walls serve as great insulation from the elements. Exteriors seek to imitate the appearance of traditional adobe construction, though in some new construction modern materials including brick and stucco are substituted – with rounded corners and thick walls used to simulate the traditional style. Additional features of Pueblo Revival homes also include:

• Exposed timbers
• Massive wood features
• Rounded walls with square windows
• Flat roof with no overhang
• “Canales” to redirect water
• Natural shapes

Though origins of the style date back to the turn of the 20th century, new luxury homes showcasing Pueblo architecture remain popular throughout the region. The foothills of Tucson provide a perfect backdrop for homes of this style, and a custom home in the exclusive Cobblestone community offers stunning proof. The property is accessed through a private courtyard with water feature leading to the interior with natural tones and textures, along with wall niches to display artwork. In the resort-like pool area, wooden supports or “vigas” – another signature of the style – jut out beyond the flat roof. Blending seamlessly with its environment, the home has 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths and is currently listed at $1.149 million.

Just outside of Taos, New Mexico, this luxury Pueblo Revival style home rests on expansive desert acreage and is filled with the finest finishes. Multiple indoor and outdoor living spaces flow seamlessly, with a relaxing pool and spa on the exterior and interior with muted tones and striking exposed timber ceilings. The 6 bedroom, 6 bath home is listed at $3.275 million.