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.

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.

Although the term “loft” originally referred to an upper-level space for storage or other specific needs, the loft is now a highly sought after style of architecture in the urban environment. Beginning in the 1950s and 60s in New York, former industrial buildings and abandoned warehouses were converted into affordable homes for artists who wanted to live in the city at a low cost but still have room to work. Although the space was optimal for its residents, many were forced out due to safety concerns posed by city officials and the fire department. Over time, however, artists fought back and were eventually allowed to stay, and the popularity spread.

Although the loft is unique and has some distinctive traits, one of the most identifiable characteristics is that a loft has very little to it. Lofts are made of open space with few to no walls or dividers. Additionally, loft style homes also had:

• Very high ceilings
• Factory-size, expansive windows
• Cast iron columns
• Brick or plaster walls
• Hardwood or cement floors
• Exposed, unfinished look
• Customizable floor plan

Since its origination, loft style homes have become increasingly popular in suburban areas as well. This type of home is referred to as a soft loft, while the traditional industrial homes are identified as hard lofts. These newly built homes share some of the same characteristics as the original buildings, however they are made with softer features and room divisions and are much more expensive than the old conversions.

Several loft style luxury homes are currently on the market in some of the most prestigious areas in major cities across the U.S. Manhattan is rich with this style of residence, including a quintessential Tribeca loft. The residence is in an 1868 building that was once home to a butter and egg company, and features exposed brick, duct work and ceiling beams showcasing the “unfinished” appearance. The stunning three bedroom, two bath loft is currently on the market for $4.65 million. Across the county in Seattle is a one of a kind penthouse loft with stained concrete floors, 19-foot steel beams, acoustic Walnut ceilings and walls of glass for amazing views of Puget Sound and the iconic Space Needle. The result of a meticulous three-year design, the stunning penthouse is listed at $1.99 million.

When you picture a Federal style building, the first thing that comes to mind is likely the White House or similar building, representative of wealth and power. This style of architecture originated in the 18th century and continued being built through the early to mid 1800s. The style got its name from the Federal Period era, and architects brought influences from Ancient Roman and Grecian architecture.

While Federal style buildings had many similarities to the recent Georgian Colonial architecture, new influences brought several changes and updates to the style. One of the identifying characteristics of the Georgian Colonial was the square and angular appearance. However, the new Federal style featured more curves and arches. Additional distinctive traits of Federal style homes include:

• Balance and symmetry, similar to Georgian Colonial style
• Plain surfaces with less detail
• Fanlight entryway
• Palladian windows
• Central doorway with heavy ornamentation
• Low-pitched or flat roof with balustrades 
• Columns framing entrance
• Shuttered windows
• Oval, circular or hexagonal rooms
• Balanced proportions

The Federal style of architecture is still popular today and several luxury homes that exemplify this type are currently on the market. Located in Allentown, New Jersey and currently listed at $2.5 million, Robert Woodward House is a model example of a Federal farmhouse. The brick exterior and symmetrical appearance are defining of the Federal Period era. Built in the early 19th century, the home has been beautifully restored and rests on 33 country acres. Also available is a Nantucket home built more recently, in 1995, yet displays classic Federal style with a decorated entryway reminiscent of the original Federal buildings of the 1700s.

The Cape Cod style of architecture originated during the mid-to-late 17th century in New England and was developed by colonists that came from England to settle in the U.S. This cottage-style home was developed for its functionality rather than its appearance. New England’s east coast location and often extreme weather conditions were the primary influences for the defining features of the Cape Cod style.

The very simple form of the Cape Cod home was made to protect residents from coastal weather – the roof shed rain and snow, the central chimney provided warmth and the shutters could be closed during storms. Other distinctive characteristics of this style include:

• Symmetrical
• Plain ornamentation
• Broad frame
• Large chimney
• Steep roofs with slight overhang
• Multi-paned windows flanking the front door
• Wooden shutters
• Natural colors
• Fit with surrounding landscape

The Cape Cod style of home draws from a Colonial design, and although the style was originally popular in the 1600s, the 1930s brought Colonial Revival Cape Cod homes. Their popularity spanned through the 1950s due to their inexpensive nature, and today they have evolved to one and a half stories and often feature basement and garage additions. The affordability and modern updates to a classic feel are reasons why these luxury homes are still highly sought after today. While the basic features have remained the same, the functionality is not as important – shutters are only decoration and chimneys are often off to one side.

Several modern luxury Cape Cod homes are currently on the market. One of the top Cape Cod homes available is in Barnstable, Massachusetts at the epicenter of the style’s origins. With surrounding oceanfront views and 10,760 square feet of space, this luxurious property is currently listed at $19.5 million. Across the country in Bainbridge Island, Washington, an exceptional Cape Cod style home brings the New England feel to the Pacific Northwest. Currently listed at $8.5 million, it features impeccable detail and craftsmanship with spectacular views of Puget Sound.

Mediterranean architecture became popular in the U.S. in the 1920s through the 1940s. Most homes of this style can be found in California and Florida due to their Spanish histories and Mediterranean-like climates. Although the housing market declined during The Great Depression, Mediterranean architecture regained momentum in the 1960s and remains popular today.

Influences for this style stem from a variety of countries in the Mediterranean, including Spain, Italy, Morocco, Portugal and Greece. Based on the climate in these areas, Mediterranean style homes were built in a way that would provide relief from hot temperatures. Some of the most common identifiable features of Mediterranean architecture include:

• Bright roofs – similar to Spanish missions
• Sloped, tiled roofs
• Arches and columns
• Heavy wooden doors
• Stucco finishes on the exterior 
• Interior courtyards
• Balconies
• Several large windows
• White or bright painted walls

With the popularity of Mediterranean style still growing, several luxury properties and homes are currently on the market internationally – most commonly in warmer locations. In Manalapan Beach, Florida, between Palm Beach and Boca Raton, sits a gorgeous oceanfront estate. Listed at a little over $29.9 million, this home features seven bedrooms, 10 bathrooms and three partial baths in its 23,500 square feet. The Venetian-inspired home embodies the Mediterranean style with its varying roof elevations, entry veranda and multiple loggias. Also on the market, in La Jolla, California, is a coastal compound with 10,000 square foot home that is currently listed at $29.5 million. With six bedrooms, six bathrooms, one partial bath, a movie theater and private spa, this property boasts incredible ocean views and expansive outdoor living areas. Additionally, the stucco finishes and patio space offer that unique Mediterranean feel.

In the late 18th century and early 19th century, a new style of architecture became popular for luxury homes. The Greek Revival style was predominately seen internationally but made its way to the U.S. between 1820 and 1850, where its popularity grew. Greek Revival homes came at the beginning of American democracy, as the country was beginning to expand. This style was inspired by not only Greek architecture, but also Greek philosophy, as many Americans sympathized with the Greeks’ similar struggle for independence.

This style of architecture is very distinguishable for several reasons. Because of the Greek influence, many of the homes were modeled after the Parthenon, but you may also recognize these as Southern antebellum plantations. Greek Revivals had several unique features, including:

• Symmetrical in shape
• Tall columns
• Low pitched roof
• Pediment gable
• Large porch
• Embellishments and moldings
• Made of wood and plaster
• Often painted white

The formal feel of this style attracts buyers still today, and several luxury Greek Revival homes are currently available throughout the world. Sitting on three acres in Morris Township, NJ a landmark Greek Revival estate dubbed ‘The Sycamores’ rests on the path followed by George Washington and his troops when returning from the Battle of Princeton. The home epitomizes the Greek Revival style with large columns and elaborate moldings and it is currently listed at $1.95 million. In Benahavis, Spain sits a modern version of the Greek Revival style infused in a Mediterranean estate. This seven bedroom, seven bathroom home offers fantastic views and amenities for €8.95 million. Click around to take an online tour or view the photo galleries of these incredible homes, as well as other Greek Revival luxury homes.

Mid-Century Modern refers to the interior design and architecture that developed in the mid-20th century. Homes of this style began being built after World War II in the mid-to-late 1940s and continued through the 1960s and beyond. Because of the war, several new building materials were able to be utilized, and this architectural style began to flourish.

Mid-Century Modern architecture has several defining features. One focus of the style is to bring the outdoors inside to encourage healthy living and a newfound exploration of the environment. Additionally, Mid-Century Modern homes will likely have:

• Unusual frame shape
• Flat planes and geometrical shapes
• Flat or gabled roof
• Large sliding glass doors to receive light from many angles
• Glass walls
• Open floor plan
• Changes in elevation to create the feeling of a split-level
• Natural materials used on the interior
• Extensive outdoor living space to provide integration with nature

With the popularity of organic materials and green living on the rise, so are Mid-Century Modern style homes. This style utilizes space, lighting and materials to create a connection with the outdoors. Several Mid-Century Modern luxury homes are on the market today.

 

Built in 1963 on a 2.5 acre lot, a stunning Mid-Century Modern home is currently listed at $6.795 million in Highland Park, Illinois. The home features 18 rooms, fantastic views of Lake Michigan and a private beach. However, the elements that really make this home the epitome of the Mid-Century Modern style are the tall glass windows and doors, circular living room and large outdoor area that include a bluestone terrace, cabana, pool and extensive landscaping.

Also available, located in Rye, New York, is a seven bedroom, six bathroom home. This home was built in 1965 and was designed by renowned architect George Nemeny. Large windows, glass walls and an open floor plan allow radiant light to be infused throughout the house. Additionally, mature trees and specimen plantings on the expansive 1.93 acres make this $3.4 million home ideal for those looking for a luxurious Mid-Century Modern place to call their own.