All posts by Marlene Ridgway

As the Assistant Editor at Unique Homes magazines, Marlene Ridgway brings five years of experience in crafting captivating narratives within the luxury realm. Armed with a Bachelor's degree in English, Marlene's passion for language and storytelling shines through in her articles, covering a range of topics from the newest design trends to exciting travel destinations.

New Collections Bring Creativity Outdoors

with:

Bring fun and function to your outdoor space this spring with three collections from Vondom, by Eero Aarnio. Modern shapes and unique fun concepts are combined to make up the Roulette, Rosinante, and Peacock collections.

Eero Aarnio, the mastermind behind these designs is described as a “plastic pioneer master and a living legend of modern design,” according to the Vondom website. Aarino has been a freelance designer since 1962, and his iconic designs continue to inspire today.

 

Rosinante Collection

The Rosinante collection was inspired by the fascinating world of carousels and Ferris wheels. The whimsical nature of the rocking horses makes them perfect for families. With sleek lines and modern colors, the designs are equally as fun as they are sophisticated.

 

Traditionally a rocking horse only rocks back and forth, but this horse has a base which also enables users to spin. Because the horse was made in Spain, it was naturally named after Don Quixote’s world famous horse, Rosinante.

Roulette Collection

Another lighthearted collection by Aarino is The Roulette Collection. These undeniably bold chairs are perfect for a relaxed gathering or an afternoon outside. The designer had a concept of the chair’s leg being part of the body in his mind. Aarino ended up with a design that rocks in all directions and also spins because of its contact with the ground at one point.

 

The high armrests give a sense of security when spinning the chair around and also provides support while sitting. Wanting to find an international name for the chair, which also would immediately give the association for the spinning motion, Aarino ended up with the name ”Roulette.”

Peacock Collection

The Peacock collection fits in perfectly among Aarino’s other designs or stands alone to make a adventurous statement. The planter is in the shape of a peacock but the image isn’t complete without the addition of a plant to serves as the tail. The collection was inspired by the designer’s own childhood memories of the animals, which fascinated and scared him.

Photos courtesy of VONDOM

Leave a comment

IGNITE YOUR SPACE

with:

Gather around the fireplace and embrace the comfort of warmth and fresh designs with these fireplace trends.

 

The fireplace is so much more than an accent today. A crackling fire has become a central point of design in some rooms, a conversation starter, and a gathering place within the home. Transform your home with these stylish and modern trends.

Don’t Be a Square

There are endless opportunities for creativity when it comes to fireplaces. The time for traditional fireplaces that are built of bricks and right angles is officially over. Embrace the variety of shapes to choose from, including round fireplaces. This stunning circular fireplace is eye-catching and adds to the warm and inviting atmosphere. The placement, color, and overall style produces an unforgettable element in this space.

Divide Your Space

A dividing wall or partial wall is the perfect place for a fireplace. Adding a component like this simultaneously separates the rooms and brings it together. The coziness of the fireplace easily spreads to both areas. This trend is also the answer for those struggling to spice up an otherwise bland dividing wall. Avoid overwhelming the space by keeping the fireplace low to the ground and subtle.

Make it a Focal Point

A fireplace doesn’t have to blend in to be functional and beautiful. Whether guests are settling down for a movie night or assembling with some wine and good conversation, it is increasingly popular to make your fireplace the central point in a room. This type of fireplace will not only attract guests but is bound to start a conversation. Is there anything more relaxing than an afternoon around the fire? Don’t be afraid to make your fireplace really stand out!

A Subtle Spark

If your fireplace isn’t a large part of your space for most of the year, then a subtle addition can be as equally appealing. A smaller element that is close to the ground could be the perfect touch of warmth that you’re craving. This design is grand without overpowering the space.

Visit https://modusfireplaces.com/ for more of their luxury fireplace collection!

Photos courtesy of Modus Fireplaces

Leave a comment

Palmilla Beach Resort Captivates Texans and More

with:
Palmilla Beach Resort & Golf Club in Port Aransas, Texas is the perfect place to settle with your family, gather with friends or relax on a vacation filled with elegance and luxury.

The historic town of Port Aransas has all of the charm and color to make it a perfect family destination with the excitement that you and yours are craving. Gregory Carr, development manager at Palmilla Beach Resort & Golf Community described the community as “fun, eclectic, and funky.” Port A — as it is fondly known by the locals —  has 18 miles of uninterrupted beach with spectacular Gulf views and beachfront living. Palmilla Beach Resort is the ideal home or vacation spot for ocean and nature lovers alike.

 

Located in the ideal Gulf coast town, this beach community easily paints a picture of luxury with modern yet traditional architecture, high-end dining, and top-notch amenities. Walking through the development is a serene and safe experience. The tumbling ocean waves add to the relaxed atmosphere that one feels. Overall, the resort is “an environment where memories can be made,” says Carr. He also made note of how the community comes together whether it’s at the pool, on the beach or just in their backyards to create a welcoming environment.

The Real Estate

 

Palmilla Beach is well-established and always expanding. There are plenty of real estate options for vacation renters and those looking to make Port A their home. “It’s a lifestyle community,” says Carr, pointing out that most of the community are in rental properties. According to Palmilla Beach’s website, more than 75,000 people visit Port A during peak season. This is the perfect opportunity to take advantage of a popular destination and generate extra income while securing your perfect vacation home. Tiffany Holmgren Zuniga, sales executive at Palmilla Beach says, “Port A has the fastest growing rental market in Texas.”

 

Real estate options include:

  • Homesites
  • Homes
  • Condominiums
  • Cottages
  • Townhomes

Black Marlin Bar & Grill

 

The on-site restaurant is elegant with a high-end menu and taste, but it is surrounded by a comfortable beach atmosphere. The relaxed feel, friendly staff, and delectable cuisine make for the perfect summer afternoon. Choose from a variety of fresh seafood, such as lobster imperial or seared scallops. Then, end your meal with a sweet treat that is made in house with top quality ingredients. The Black Marlin is a gathering place for great company and exquisite food. “It’s the perfect comfort food,” says Zuniga.

Palmilla Beach Golf Club

Previously an 18-hole course, with a high difficulty level, the course is now undergoing some major changes that are going to appeal to more than golf enthusiasts. The new additions will make the course less challenging, kid-friendly, and entertaining for the whole family. “These new improvements are going to be for the whole family,” says Carr.

 

Once completed, the course will accommodate a range of golfers, from experienced to new players. After construction, The Playground will feature “an 18-hole putting course featuring an authentic, all-grass putting play with grass greens, bunkers, dunes, music, and access to food and beverage that will appeal to avid golfers, families, and children,” according to Palmilla Beach’s website.

 

A three-hole, short course will also be offered. This will serve perfectly as a warm up or simply a relaxed, quick game. Another addition will include the events lawn, which will accommodate games, competitions and concerts. The new improvements will include music, food and beverages that will help make this area an entertaining activity for the whole family.

 

Photos courtesy of Palmilla Beach Restort & Golf Club

For more information visit:

http://www.palmillabeachgolfclub.com/

https://www.palmillabeach.com/

https://portaransas.org/

Leave a comment

Bring the Outside In

with:

Nature in design is a trend that has gained momentum and continued in 2019.

Photo courtesy of Arbor Eighteen 

Finding a connection to nature may feel like an impossible task if you’re living in the city or simply lacking the space for a yard. Crowded parks and potted plants may not be the dose of nature that you are seeking. Thankfully, designers and architectures alike are taking the need for nature into consideration and incorporating green into designs and architecture — a trend that is growing in popularity. Blur the line between inside and out with these trends!

Walls of Greenery

The seamless transition between the inside and outside could make the city feel miles away. One way to make that connection is with walls of greenery and other plants, which can freshen and brighten a space. This type of addition can also soften a room that may be surrounded by concrete buildings and bustling sidewalks.

Photo courtesy of  561 Pacific

Designated Outdoor Space

City living can create a high demand for outdoor space that is tranquil and also functional. Designers are embracing the idea of green space that is outdoors and accessible. A common space that has a park-like feel has become a popular trend. The addition of natural elements brings a calming quality to an area.

Photo courtesy of Galerie

Nature by the Poolside

Pools and spas are not an uncommon amenity for developments and resorts. However, designers and architectures are incorporating nature, such as native plants into luxury pool and spa areas to give them a softer touch. Rather than surrounding the pool with umbrellas and other structures, a few palm trees give a much more relaxed feel.

 

Glimpse the Outdoors

If you are lucky enough to have your own outdoor space, floor-to-ceiling windows are a way to bring the outside into your living area. Even a distant view of nature can transform the feel of your home. Walls of windows not only reveal the outdoor environment making it feel within reach but it also allows for plenty of natural light to find its way inside.

Photos courtesy of Touzet Studio

NYC projects represented by Halstead Property Development Marketing

Leave a comment

Choose a Luxury Chalet for your Next Vacation

with:

Chalets originated in Switzerland and other alpine regions and are best known for their wooden features, prominent eaves, and convenient proximity to ski slopes. These cozy yet high-end chalets have something for everyone.

The careful decor paired with ultimate comfort is ideal for a secluded vacation among the mountains and nature. The spacious rooms and added details are also perfect for entertaining family or friends.

Photo courtesy of Ultimate Luxury Chalets.

Photo courtesy of Ultimate Luxury Chalets.

Choose a chalet for a romantic getaway, a cozy family gathering, or an exciting stay away from home with friends.

Top photo: Ultimate Luxury Chalets

Bottom photo: Firefly Collection

Chalets usually offer stunning views of the mountains and easy access to world-class skiing, but it is becoming more and more common for chalets to include a pool or spa area as well. Whether it’s a hot tub, jacuzzi, infinity pool or other water feature, they are as luxurious as a resort. Outdoor pools and spas are nestled among the finest views, offering a truly serene experience.

 

Why Choose a Chalet

Chalets are great for entertaining family and friends. The spacious homes allow each guest to have their own privacy while keeping everyone together. The large rooms are perfect for relaxing after a great meal or a long day on the slopes.

Surrounded by mountains, nature, and most likely plenty of snow, chalets are a world away from the hustle and bustle. Whether you’re escaping the city or trying to reconnect with nature, the gorgeous views and surrounding wilderness is sure to impress.

Photos courtesy of  The Firefly Collection.

Find Unforgettable Chalets Around the World

Options for chalets are plentiful, but these are the top locations that offer luxury and more.

Verbier, Switzerland

Les Gets, France

Courchevel Tourisme, France

Megeve, France

Oberlech, Austria

Aspen, Colorado

Davos, Switzerland

Photo courtesy of Ultimate Luxury Chalets.

Start planning your next dream vacation in a luxury chalet!

https://www.ultimateluxurychalets.com/

https://www.firefly-collection.com/luxury-ski-chalets

Leave a comment

The Texas Destination You Haven’t Heard About

with:

Sunflower Beach Resort & Residences is a beach development that has easy access to the Gulf of Mexico and makes an impression with luxury details and a friendly community.

 

Sunflower Beach Resort & Residences in Port Aransas, Texas greets you with sun, open spaces, a crisp ocean breeze, and comfort. The newly growing beach community offers a variety of luxury real estate options that will attract families and more. A permanent residence here appeals to those who crave the year-round nice weather, proximity to the beach, and the small-town feel. Equally appealing is the option to generate an income with a great rental program that is successful throughout Port Aransas.

The Beach Club

The main amenity at Sunflower — The Beach Club — is now open and the whole family will relish in the specialized perks. A luxury pool is included along with cabanas, an event pavilion, and a kid’s lounge. The separate adult pool and the Bar & Grill are what make The Beach Club ideal for everyone. Ryan Ritcher, from on-site sales at Sunflower Beach Resort & Residences, says, “The club is the perfect way for the whole community to enjoy themselves and get to know each other.”

 

Ashleigh Robertson from on-site sales also speaks to the sense of community at Sunflower Beach, “It’s a big family here. This is the kind of place where it’s safe enough to send your kid to school on their bike.”

 

Ritcher explains that at the sales center they make it a point “to really get to know each individual buyer and understand what they’re really looking for.”

Real Estate

Real estate options include custom homes with modern and approachable design. Coastal lots are available with stunning natural features and easy, driveable access to the beach.

 

The Camp is another interesting investment that is being offered. According to Sunflower Beach Resort & Residences, “The Camp is thoughtfully designed to take you from the warmth of the Texas sunset to the intimate glow of your own fireplace. Each cabin at Sunflower Beach offers attention to luxury that you won’t find anywhere else on the coast. From its seamless indoor/outdoor spaces to camp-inspired amenities, this collection of cabins offers one-of-a kind architecture, style, and floor plans. Modern poolside condos are in the works and for all these options preferred builders Keystone, Newport Custom Homes, and Conner Coastal are available.

Features

Community Features that you and your family will love include, a sweeping and well-kept lawn, parks and play areas, pleasant streets to stroll down, unforgettable ocean views and stunning dune preserves.

 

Sunflower’s location in Port Aransas is an added bonus for those settling in or just visiting. The delectable cuisine that is available, the friendly beaches, golf cart accessibility and local culture makes this a fun beach destination that is only continuing to grow.

Find more details at:

http://www.sunflowerbeach.com/

https://portaransas.org/

Leave a comment

Be Distinct at Dinner

with:

Let delicate hues of pink, contrasting deep blues against calm gray, and relaxing greens glazes don your dinner table instead of standard dinnerware.

Photography by ‘The Cooking Lab’ – Grey Suit Clay

Small ceramic studios are making an impact with fun designs and a distinct unique feeling for each table. Studios such as Julie Spako’s,Grey Suit Clay, andSkandiHus in London are attracting buyers who crave handmade items you won’t find in bulk. The notion that each dish, bowl, mug or plate is one-of-a-kind makes every purchase feel personal.

Photos by Pauline Stevens – Julie Spako

Adding handmade ceramics to your table can subtly transform a room with the creativity that comes with singular pieces. Julie Spako, who works expertly with high fire porcelain and stoneware, says “ceramic is both an ancient material and a modern one … It’s an amazing material that will outlive its maker by thousands of years but comes into being by an artist or craftsperson.” Each piece holds its own history, which brings life to any table.

 

These ceramic creations serve as art, but they’re also functional. “I do consider the function of my pieces as I make them, and I look forward to seeing how they are used. Some of my serving pieces are kept on the kitchen counter as catch-alls from tea bags to coffee-making supplies or in the bathroom to hold wash clothes,” says Spako.

Photos by Charlie Mckay – SkandiHus

Francesca Hague, creator and owner of Grey Suit Clay also carefully considers function during the process, “I always create my pieces with the full intention of them being well used and well loved. I want them to be tactile and ergonomically pleasing in the hand whilst also showcasing a beautiful palette that works to compliment both the table it sits on as well as the food served upon it.”

 

Each piece is individually made and no plate, bowl, or dish is exactly the same. “Ceramic pieces are very unique in their process and finish. Being handled and molded directly from soft earth into durable, functional work — the potential for such a huge range of styles and finishes is endless,” according to Hague.

Photos by Charlie Mckay – SkandiHus

Photography by ‘The Cooking Lab’ – Grey Suit Clay

Leave a comment

Upstage with Home Staging

with:

Staging your home could open the door for buyers and sellers in more ways than one. Home staging could mean decorating, furnishing and even painting an empty home that is on the market. Staging a home has been referred to as an art form and is usually used as a way to help sellers and buyers understand the possibilities that a home offers.

 

It is difficult for a buyer to imagine raising a family or spending a cozy holiday in a vacant space. Therefore, home staging allows buyers to imagine what their home could be. Additionally, if a room is staged well that can help a seller pitch the idea of the space as a home. The impersonal feel of an empty house can be quelled by the right coat of paint, properly arranged furniture, and other final touches, such as decor.  

“Home staging is now an essential part in the marketing of a home sale,” says Krisztina Bell, the founder of No Vacancy Home Staging. “It is great to see even sellers and investors truly understanding its value.” Bell offers various tips and tricks for staging a vacant home.

1. Organize and avoid clutter. This will make it easier for a potential buyer to see themselves living in the home.  

 

2. Think fresh and light. Keep blinds and curtains open to let in as much natural light as possible. Also, if any of the rooms in the home are painted a deep exotic or bright neon color then it is best to neutralize each room by having walls painted a nice warm color.  

 

3. Update and repair. Take note of any noticeable or large fixes that need to be made and take care of them early.

 

4. Don’t forget the exterior. The first impression a potential home buyer will have of a house will be of the exterior, so nice curb appeal is important.

 

5. The price is worth it. The average cost of a complete staging project is usually much less than your first price reduction. Statistically, homes that have been properly prepared for the market sell before a price reduction is needed.

6. Decorating and staging are almost complete opposites. Decorating involves putting the existing homeowners’ tastes and styles into the house, making it personal. Staging involves taking one’s personality out of the house, so the decor is neutral and appealing to the broadest range of potential home buyers.

 

7. It is best to have your house staged first and then have it listed. Think of the importance of first impressions. The greatest buzz about a house is generated when it is first listed.

 

8. Although new to the television circuit, home staging has actually been around since the 1970s. In some areas of the country, home staging is as common as open houses. The central states are starting to recognize the value of a staged home, not because it is trendy, but because it works!  

 

9. Do emphasize the upscale and custom features of a home with staging, but DON’T overdo it. Keep it clean lines and simple.

 

10. Don’t place furnishings or decor that block light or views. Do stage the home with tasteful furnishings and make it easy for prospective buyers to walk straight to amazing ocean, mountain, or island views.

Photos courtesy of Krisztina Bell, No Vacancy Home Staging

Leave a comment

A Diverse Draw

with:

Canada’s cool climate is yielding to hot markets, attracting buyers from around the world.

 

Agents showing Canadian real estate agree that areas such as Cambridge, Central Toronto, Nova Scotia, and Downtown Montreal and are appealing to buyers and families from all over the world. Their proximity to accommodating cities and the suburban feel are attracting a plethora of buyers, and these regions are only expected to grow.

 

Attracting buyers to the province of Nova Scotia, Mariana Cowan of Coldwell Banker Supercity speaks to the area’s growth. “With 878 parks, 33 beaches, 532 trails and pathways, universities, research and development, Nova Scotia is a great place to invest. Sales in July 2018 were the best they’ve been in six years,” she says.

 

Amy Assaad of Royal LePage Heritage in the Downtown Montreal and Westmount area explains that buyers there do not necessarily fit into a specific demographic. “Many properties are within walking distance to Mount Royal, but are also close in proximity to the city,” says Assaad. The variety of opportunities are attracting “many local buyers and foreigners, especially from the United States,” she says.

 

For Assaad, a considerable draw for buyers is The Golden Square Mile, which has been compared to New York City’s 5th Avenue. “The Golden Square Mile offers fine art museums, 5-star restaurants, endless shopping, and Mount Royal,” she says. In Cowan’s province, “You can have the seaside lifestyle that Nova Scotia is famous for, and be within minutes of our capital city of Halifax,” according to Cowan. Assaad also explains how growth is in the future. “The architecture in the area is already beautiful, and it will continue to increase in value,” she says.

 

 

With a slightly different view, Susan Macarz of RE/MAX Ultimate Realty Toronto, Ontario contends that those buying Canadian real estate do fit into a certain demographic. “Most are successful in business, whether immigrating or moving up.” Although that does not limit those suited to buy in the area. Buyers hailing from a diverse range of cultures come seeking financial independence, according to Macarz.

 

“Buyers come from all over the globe,” Macarz says, without neglecting her local clients. “There are also many Torontonians that are moving up and desire a country home, or a larger home for their family,” she says.

 

Steve Bailey of RE/MAX Real Estate Center in Cambridge, Ontario also notes that the diversity among buyers is a selling point, especially for those coming from the Greater Toronto Area. “I think what it really boils down to is that all of these cities are great places to live, work and raise a family. Each is a diverse and thriving community with a unique blend of urban and rural areas,” he says.

 

Similar to Assaad and Macarz, Bailey agrees that the area accommodates many different types of buyers. “We have a lot of manufacturing locally, which supports many of the families we have in the region. And we have a lot of professionals who commute out of the city,” says Bailey. “It really creates a wonderful blend of people and personalities.”

Photos courtesy of Steve Bailey. Rendering courtesy of Amy Assaad

This originally appeared in Unique Homes Fall ’18

Click here to view the digitial edition.

Leave a comment

Unforgettable Luxury, Built to Last

with:

“Port A is one of the last really authentic beach towns and it’s only going to grow,”

Jeffrey Hentz

President and CEO of the Port Aransas/Mustang Island Chamber of Commerce & Tourism Bureau

Cinnamon Shore in Port Aransas, Texas withstood the unforgiving winds of hurricane Harvey and came out on top.

The strict building standards, the lock-and-leave storm procedure and more are a testament to the development’s dedication to creating a durable and safe place to live. “Residents and guests can relax because they can just lock their doors and leave if there is a storm,” says Jodi Peters, managing real estate broker at Cinnamon Shore. But once you visit you won’t want to leave.

 

Upon entering the community that is Cinnamon Shore, the modern yet cozy architecture catches your eye yet melds perfectly with the carefully incorporated natural elements. “The dunes are really special. Not every beach has this beautiful, thick greenery that separates the homes from the water,” says Peters. The undeniable Southern beach tones immediately make you feel as if you’re at a serene beach getaway.

Clean white accents are crisp against beach tones, and modern design ties the community together and sets a standard within the community that doesn’t feel stiff or forced.

 

Despite the closeness to the beach — most balconies offer spectacular views — the residences are built 11 to 13 feet above sea level and adhere to building codes and regulations that have been tested and have proven to be reliable and sturdy.

 

“It’s a safe area that is perfect for families and empty nesters,” says Jeffrey Hentz, president and CEO of the Port Aransas/Mustang Island Chamber of Commerce & Tourism Bureau. With that distinct feeling of safety, the community seamlessly incorporates amenities that will have guests feeling as if they’re at a coveted resort. However, rather than scooting away from other guests and fighting over seats around the pool, the community encourages getting to know the other residents, without sacrificing the necessary privacy for a relaxing vacation or stay.

Areas like the fire pit — a popular gathering point with smores to accompany peaceful nights, the community pool, the social circle, and the great lawn provide endless opportunities to meet people or enjoy a serene evening by the water.  “Small things like the fire pit bring everyone out and together,” according to Hentz.

 

The balance that Cinnamon Shore has created is the perfect formula for success.

 

The sense of safety as if you’re in a neighborhood where you’ve lived your whole life doesn’t dull the excitement or variety of activities and nightlife that are available within the development or just a short trip into town away. Lisabella’s within Cinnamon Shore is the perfect evening dining venue. The rest of Port A offers a variety of cuisine ranging from authentic Italian food at Venetian Hot Plate to the “you catch it, we cook it” option that is offered at several local restaurants.

Nature is a big part of Port Aransas and Cinnamon Shore has taken special care to include  Hummingbird Park, a fishing pier, Lake Colby and Lake Gavin and, of course, easy access to the Gulf of Mexico for those looking to get away from the big cities. “The pier is a popular spot in the afternoons. It’s the perfect spot to relax and enjoy a summer night,” says Peters.

 

Cinnamon Shore might be your next permanent home, vacation spot, or rental that you’ll fall in love with.

Real estate options include homes, condos, cottages, homesites, and penthouses.

 

—Cottages nestled around sunset park range from $585,000 to $689,000.

—Condos are available with one to four beds.

—Four bedroom penthouses are also available with current prices in the range of $790,000.

—Various beach homes are available with options for up to 5 beds and 6 baths.

Cinnamon Shore has already proven its success, but there are big plans for expansion already underway. “It’s the original seaside village on the Texas coast,” says Peters. “It just keeps getting more beautiful and intricate with every detail.”

 

Cinnamon Shore South is going to be a 300-acre New Urbanist community and will include two luxury pools, views of a Texas-sized lake, and vistas of both the Gulf of Mexico and the bay.

Photos by Shannon Lafayette/ courtesy of Cinnamon Shore

Leave a comment