Browsing Tag

Interior Design

Architecture, Art, Business, COVID-19, Education, Entertainment, Real Estate, Working From Home

Stay Home | 4 Reasons Why Home Matters

by Sotheby’s International Realty

There are many famous quotes about home – “home is where the heart is,” “there’s no place like home,” and “home is where your story begins,” to name a few. These are sentiments we can get behind now, more than ever. Let’s settle into our favorite spots and take a look at the importance of home.

A Place to Reflect

Home is a place where you feel most comfortable, which is why it feels so good to come home after time away. It’s a place where can you curl up with a good book and the place where your bed and pillow await after a long day. Now that many of us are spending more time in our homes than ever before, we may forget that special feeling of “coming home,” and how nice it is to walk through our own front door every day to a place of warmth and familiarity. Now is a perfect time to reflect on where you’ve been, where you are, and where you want to go in the future – and yes, that can include a travel bucket list.

An Expression of Lifestyle

As many of us are spending more time at home, we’ve been able to better evaluate the everyday functionality, layout, and aesthetic of our households. Our time at home right now affords us the opportunity to experiment with our space and whether it is truly working to best fit our needs. Consider reorganizing drawers, pantries, and closets as an easy weekend project. For something new, consider rearranging the layout of a room, ordering some new accessories or a new patio set, and if you have the time, trying a new paint color. Making small updates to your surroundings helps your home continue to be a place of comfort and inspiration.

Memories and History

A favorite coffee mug from a special trip, a treasured family photo, memories of funny kitchen mishaps, and the first time you walked through the door and called this space home are all things to remember during a time like this – especially if you’re beginning to feel restless. Take a moment to look around your home and take stock of all it has provided over the years – let those memories bring a smile to your face. Remember, just because you’re home doesn’t mean you can’t make new memories; virtually visit a museum or take in a live performance to help pass the time.

A Home Means Hope

Having a place to call home sets you up for success and gives you a hope for a better future. New Story has provided thousands of homes to families in need and now, during this current health crisis, is helping families in the U.S. that are facing homelessness. Learn more about New Story and how you can make a difference and see how they’ve partnered with Icon to revolutionize how they’re building homes on the Apple TV+ series, “Home.”

Home is where the heart is – share your favorite part about your home in the comments below and remember, we’re all in this together.

May 3, 2020 by
Business, Entertainment, Inspiration, Life, Real Estate, Residential Architecture, Residential Real Estate, Technology, Working From Home

Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty Helps Arizona Cardinals’ Kliff Kingsbury Win The Internet and Social Media With His Luxury Home / Ultimate NFL Draft War Room

Arizona Cardinals Head Coach Kliff Kingsbury won the internet on the first night of the NFL Draft with a shot of him in his own personal, luxurious and one-of-a-kind war room at his Paradise Valley home. The shot of Kingsbury in his luxury and very contemporary home was posted by the Cardinals on social media and garnered tons of attention during the NFL Draft.

Photo from the Arizona Cardinals Twitter Account

Lisa Roberts helped Kingsbury find the home when he was hired by the Cardinals last year.

I previewed hundreds of homes online and about 40 homes in person prior to showing him top properties. This was new construction and checked all the boxes as far as amenities go – views, backyard, and the quality he was searching for. We made a few changes after close including a movie theatre room so he can watch back plays. Certainly, this is coming in handy now that we are in quarantine!

lisa roberts

Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty has exclusive listings across Arizona for discerning buyers who want their own high-end and personal ‘war rooms’ and living spaces that redefine luxury. Here is a sampling.

A room filled with furniture and a fireplace Description automatically generated

Debbie Negrin and Jay Pennypacker offers a world-class home under Pinnacle Peak.  The estate at 10199 East Cavedale Drive 249, Scottsdale Arizona 85262 totals 12,971 square feet and includes 6 bedrooms and 11 bathrooms. The home has a home theater and media room, can accommodate 25 televisions, a game room, saloon-style bar, luxury man cave and a 30-foot wall of curved glass door to access the Scottsdale property’s outdoor spaces. This one-of-a-kind home is being listed for $6.2 million.

In Sedona, Ed Pennington is honored to list a contemporary gem with incredible Red Rocks views. The golf course property at 1296 Verde Valley Road School Road, Sedona, Arizona 86531 totals 6,370 square feet and is listed for $5 million. Contemporary artwork and sculptures are included in the home which sits on the Oak Creek Country Club Golf Course. This oasis features a home theater and plenty outdoor spaces to relax and entertain.

Josie Pakula and Racquel Miller are excited to present 7328 W Brookhart Way, Peoria, Arizona 85383. The 7,462-square-foot home backs to and has unparalleled mountain views. The 5-bedroom, 7.5-bath luxury property also features an outdoor kitchen and entertaining spaces and a resort-style backyard to enjoy games. The Peoria home is listed for $2.69 million.

Cheryl Anderson and Jeff Anderson are presenting 4901 East Tomahawk Trail, Paradise Valley, Arizona 85253 for $3.85 million. This European inspired 7,758-square-foot-home has 6 bedrooms, 8 baths as well as a home theater, lush gardens and a wine room.

Some of the luxury homes (and war rooms) are contemporary and sleek while others are more historic and iconic. 

Marta Harvey and Dawn Jacobs are excited to present Hacienda Escondida, a one-of-a-kind luxury property in Oro Valley northwest of Tucson. The private estate sits on 4.6 acres and was first built in 1943. The property has been transformed by award-winning architect Clay Scrivner.  The home features iconic views, resort style pool and spa as well as studioand workshopspace for artists. The estate has an outdoor kitchen and shaded verandas. The 6-bedroom, 8-bathroom, 6,659-square-foot estate is listed for $2.795 million. The homeis located at 630 West Calle Concordia, Oro Valley, Arizona 85704.

Jennifer McMahon and Lee Borst are presenting a Santa Fe style elegance with the 5,814-square-foot home at 1341 Sierry Peaks Drive, Prescott, Arizona 86305. The home is listed for $1.3 million and feature expansive entertainment space and breathtaking views of Thumb Butte.

April 24, 2020 by
Business, Real Estate

Russ Lyon SIR Presents Luxian Scottsdale

We are excited to present Luxian Scottsdale, a new exclusive, boutique enclave at Camelback Mountain. Our real estate advisors, Joanna Wilkins and Christine Arnold are listing the luxury Luxian development. “Luxian Scottsdale features just 14 luxury villas with unparalleled views of Camelback Mountain and The Phoenician Golf Course and scores of high-end finishes,” Joanna Wilkins said. The luxury villas abut to one of the most iconic golf courses in Arizona. 

The gated development will have 3 two-bedroom units totaling 2,491 square feet and 11 three-bedroom units with 2,971 square feet. The Scottsdale project, which is located at one of the most iconic locations in the Southwest, already has two reservations. “The enclave is surrounded by the prestigious and recently remodeled Phoenician Golf Course. Villas have impressive, unobstructed views of fairways and Camelback Mountain,” Christine Arnold said.

Pricing for the two-bedroom villas starts at $1,457,000. Three-bedroom villas prices start at $1,738,000. There is a $25,000 lot premium on five of the villa locations. The lot premium price goes up on May 31st, 2019. Luxian Villas on Camelback LLC is building the project. The villas also have plenty of high-end and luxury finishes including Subzero appliances, a Wolf cook top and oven and buyers can customize their cabinets, lighting, flooring and fixtures.

May 30, 2019 by
Business, Golf, Real Estate

Kevin Gonzales Promoted to Vice President of Operations

Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty has promoted Kevin Gonzales to Vice President of Operations. Gonzales will oversee 12 offices across Arizona and will expand training programs to help Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty agents maximize their sales.

“Kevin has been with Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty for 23 years, and he has earned success at every position he’s held. He has the unique ability to bring out the best in those around him. Simply put – he raises the bar. He is a significant addition to our executive leadership team and we congratulate him on his continued success in our company and in our industry,” said Todd Gillenwater, CEO and owner of Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty.

Gonzales will continue his current roles as managing broker of the Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty’s Pinnacle Peak and Market Street offices. The Pinnacle Peak office has 240 agents. The Market Street office is at D.C. Ranch and has 25 agents.

Gonzales said he is looking forward to working with agents and analyzing markets across Arizona. “I’m basically going to oversee all areas of operations having to do with agent development, management development,” Gonzales said of the newly created position. Gonzales said he enjoys analyzing markets and real estate trends. “I’m a real estate nerd. I love trying to understand markets and trying to understand where the next opportunities are,” he said. Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty has 850 agents.

Gonzales said he wants to train more agents under a Ninja Selling program. That is a four-day sales training immersion program. “We want to expand that to as many of our agents as possible,” Gonzales said.

Gonzales joined Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty in 1996. He has been with the luxury residential real estate firm ever since. “I’ve been doing this for 23 years now,” Gonzales said. “I’m grateful for our ownership and the executive team for giving me this opportunity and having faith in me.”

May 6, 2019 by
Architecture, Business, Real Estate, Residential Real Estate

Significant Sale ~ Frank Aazami and Cheryl Anderson

Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty sales associates Frank Aazami and Cheryl Anderson of the Camelback Tower office provided exclusive representation for a $12,000,000 Paradise Valley home which is the fifth-highest price for a home ever sold in the Valley and second-highest price sale of a home this year. 

The significant sale is a palatial 17,912 square-foot mediterranean estate designed by architect, Juan Sandoval. Sitting on more than two acres and built by a renowned team of artisans with an unlimited budget, the home was designed by Juan Sandoval, following the format of 17th Century Colonial architecture, but with every modern convenience. Offering 5 bedrooms and 7 and a half baths, the magnificent home is unparalleled in its construction quality and architectural precision. The home features a six car main garage with custom doors and additional two car garage. Every inch of the estate was designed and built during a
ten year period.

April 16, 2019 by
Architecture, Business, Real Estate

Notable Listing: The Dome at Casa Blanca

Located at the base of Camelback Mountain, “The Dome” at Casa Blanca is a Valley landmark has hosted movie stars, politicians, dignitaries and other celebrities for decades.

Listed by Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty agent and Casa Blanca community resident Grant Almquist for $1,175,000, this architectural treasure is a charming 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom residence surrounded by a lush garden patio. The 25’ onion-shaped dome rises dramatically above a generous family room with clerestory windows that fill the space with natural light. Colorful tile and hand-carved millwork throughout adds to The Dome’s incomparable ambiance.

The Casa Blanca Inn was originally built in the 1930s, and it first served as the winter escape for the Kellogg Family. Later, The Dome became Casa Blanca Inn’s famed Sultan’s Table restaurant and cocktail lounge.

During its heyday, the Casa Blanca Inn was a winter retreat frequently visited by cinema legends and politicians alike. Hollywood stars such as Marilyn Monroe, Clark Gable, Charlie Chaplin and Betty Grable stayed at the Casa Blanca Inn. Additionally, U.S. President Dwight Eisenhower and his wife Mamie vacationed at the inn many times. Now, the Casa Blanca Inn is a luxurious guard-gated residential community.

“A prospective buyer will fall in love with this home from the first time he or she lays eyes on it,” said Almquist. “I am a Casa Blanca resident and I list many of the homes for sale in the community, but there is nothing else like The Dome. Not only is it a magnificently-designed historic treasure, there are countless stories about all the legendary celebrities who have visited The Dome and have stayed at the Casa Blanca Inn.”

March 5, 2019 by
Business, Real Estate

Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty Welcomes Brandon Hamilton

Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty is dedicated to bringing the highest level of service to today’s home buyers and sellers. This tradition continues with the recent addition of luxury real estate agent, Brandon Hamilton, to the Pinnacle Peak office.

Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty agents strive to deliver real estate experiences beyond expectations to enhance lifestyles for their clients, expanding their reputation as the most respected name in real estate.

Abraham Lincoln once said, “Whatever you are, be a good one.” So, let me briefly tell you what I am not. Simply, I’m not a salesperson. What I am is a people person and a giver. My philosophy is simple: Clients come first. My background is nontraditional. I spent more than a decade working on air anchoring, reporting and hosting at NBC and ABC affiliate TV stations from Cincinnati to Dallas to right here in Phoenix, where I consider home. In journalism, you have to be curious, a great listener, an expert communicator, detail-oriented, conduct thorough research, be accurate, have integrity and empathy in storytelling, and thrive on deadline. All of these qualities will help make the home buying and selling process refreshing for you. At NBC, I hosted a series called Lifestyles of the Rich & Fabulous, featuring multi-million dollar homes and luxury resorts. This gave me insight and helped expand my market knowledge of not only North Phoenix and Scottsdale, but also the Valley overall. Some of you invited me into your home through your television, and now I hope to get invitation from you to either sell or find your dream home! With the horsepower of Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty, you are truly getting a first-class ticket in Real Estate. Outside of work, I am spending quality time with my wife, Chelsey. We love to travel, explore history, DIY projects and give back to the community.

 

“Joining Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty is an absolute honor. As a history buff, I love the tradition and prestige that comes along with the name. It is important to work in an environment that encourages and inspires, and that’s exactly what you get with this company. I’m excited to join the best of the best in the business.” ­­

 

Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty has gathered realty experts in the field of luxury real estate dedicated to the ideals of integrity and professionalism. Additionally, the seasoned management innovatively supports the efforts of the company’s agents to create a dynamic and inspiring atmosphere that invigorates and hones the skills of everyone involved.

“Brandon’s attention to detail and strong preparation skills will make him an excellent Sales Associate” said Branch Manager, Kevin Gonzales. “Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty is proud to have such a high-profile Valley name on our roster!”

January 23, 2019 by
Architecture, Business, Real Estate

Sotheby’s International Realty Expands Presence in Indiana

 Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC today announced that its independently owned and operated affiliate Encore Sotheby’s International Realty in Indiana has acquired local firm Reecer Properties, Inc., which will now operate as Encore Sotheby’s International Realty

The acquisition expands the firm’s presence into Fort Wayne, North Webster, and Roanoke, Indiana. Mark Zukerman, principal and owner of Encore Sotheby’s International Realty, will remain at the helm of operations. With this acquisition, Encore Sotheby’s International Realty now has five offices and 45 independent sales associates throughout central and northeast Indiana.

“Fort Wayne is referred to as the heart of the Midwest for its location and proximity to other key cities,” said Philip White, president and chief executive officer, Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC. “We are proud to have Encore Sotheby’s International Realty carry the brand into new markets in Indiana.”

“Lynn Reecer has established an unparalleled level of service in the greater Fort Wayne area,” said Zukerman. “This acquisition positions us to introduce the Sotheby’s International Realty brand to this market and provide our local expertise with a global footprint.”

January 17, 2019 by
Architecture, Golf, Real Estate, Residential Real Estate

Marvelous Desert Mountain Homes

Golf Season is About to Tee Off and Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty Proudly Presents Marvelous Desert Mountain Homes

North Scottsdale’s Most Exclusive and Desirable Private Residential Golf Community Offers Luxurious Living and Unrivaled Golf Experiences

Golf enthusiasts from across the world know that Arizona is synonymous with golf. From the sights and sounds at the Waste Management Phoenix Open, to the state’s scenic golf courses, Arizona is the world’s home for the sport.

Despite all the existing private golf communities, none rival the majesty of Desert Mountain. It’s the only private community in the world with six Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Courses and the finest amenities to match.

The Desert Mountain lifestyle is like none other and Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty is proud to present five beautiful homes located in this private community that every golf enthusiast will think is “a hole in one.”

First up is a Golden Nugget Award of Merit-winner situated on more than five acres and close to Desert Mountain’s Cochise and Geronimo Golf Courses. The 4 bed, 4.5 bath, 6,421-square-foot-contemporary located at 39602 N. Charles Blair Macdonald Rd. is listed for $3,775,000 by Kathy Reed. The home’s award-winning architectural features include floating roofs and curvilinear elements as well as treated copper fascias, walls of glass and polished aggregate floors.

Next is a home designed by renowned Arizona architect Shelby Wilson, a 5 bed, 6.5 bath home located at 40916 N. 107th Place. Sitting on the highest point of Rose Quartz, the property is a golf lover’s dream situated on the 14th and 15th holes of Cochise golf course. Listed for $6,495,000 by Joanie Barreiro, no expense has been spared inside with magnificent architectural features as it offers floor-to-ceiling glass windows and finishes created by The Suzanne Biers Company.

Third is a stunning 7,727-square-foot-home located at 9792 E. Honey Mesquite Dr. with 5 beds and 7 baths and is listed by Cheryl D’Anna for $5,950,000. It offers extraordinary views of Desert Mountain’s Chiricahua golf course’s 16th fairway. European influences abound, and the home provides the best in elegance, comfort and entertainment. Not only will this home appeal to a golf enthusiast, the home is a wine lover’s paradise as it boasts a wine cellar that can accommodate more than a thousand bottles and also has a tasting room.

Sitting on two acres above Desert Mountain’s Geronimo golf course’s 12th hole is a 4 bed, 6 bath elegant home. Located at 9744 E. Madera Dr. and listed by Dan Wolski for $4,000,000, the 7,570-square-foot-home perfect for golfers of all levels with a uniquely-designed putting green. It’s also an entertainer’s dream, as it offers ample outdoor space, a negative edge pool, stone fireplace and waterfall features.

Last, but certainly not least, is a stunning 5 bed, 6 bath, 7,168-square-foot home perched on a mountain and sitting on over 5.5 acres. Listed by James Kolander and located at 39622 North Charles Blair Macdonald Rd., the home was designed by world-famous architect Bing Hu. Listed for $4,000,000, it is just south of the Geronimo and Cochise golf courses. All rooms are en-suite with balconies offering breathtaking mountain views.

 

 

January 8, 2019 by
Architecture, Automobile, Entertainment, Real Estate

Every Car Needs a Home

In honor of the RM Sotheby’s car show and auction happening this month at the Arizona Biltmore, Arizona’s leader in luxury real estate, Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty, presents exquisite homes with features that are unparalleled in style, entertainment, and most importantly, revved-up for all types of car fanatics.

 


First stop on Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty’s list for car enthusiasts is an exclusive listing, located in Paradise Valley, comprised of 20,000 square feet with 6 beds and 13.5 baths. This elusive estate is listed by agents Michel Edery and Frank Aazami for $22,800,000. Amongst the numerous extravagant features, this listing supports a fleet of vehicles with a 20-car garage.

Up next, in Carefree, is a 5 bed and 3.5 bath home located at 8360 E Autoplane Dr, listed with Preston Westmoreland, for $2,500,000. Airplane hangars are not just for airplanes anymore; RVs, boats, car collections and all types of toys can fit into this massive space. Enjoy a functional, super-sized, 90-foot-wide facility to store and showcase any collection. This hangar can hold an airplane, 20 cars, boats, or RVs. No expense was spared during the construction of this whimsical dream home and it is also perfect for entertaining with spectacular patio views.

The Valley isn’t the only location for decadent garages. In the secluded area of Prescott, a 4 bed and 7 bath, 6,978-square-foot home, located at 2031 W Thumb Butte Rd, is listed by Nancy Read for $2,490,000. With a grand foyer entrance, library, living room, conservatory, wine cellar, laundry room, dining room, chef’s kitchen, and a breakfast nook, the stunning property also features a 12-car garage, equipped with RV storage. The property ensures ample space for any collection.

Another Paradise Valley estate on the list, is a 5 bed and 7.5 bath, 17,912-square-foot home, located at 8100 N 68th St, listed with Frank Aazami for $18,000,000. This magnificent home is unparalleled in its construction quality and architectural precision. Every part of this two acre estate was designed and built over a ten-year period. Amongst the meticulous features is the six-car garage. The area is designed with extended length and height, providing plenty of space for larger vehicles. The colored tiles also help to brighten up the room.

Last, but certainly not least, is a beautiful home located at 5350 E Exeter Boulevard in Phoenix. This 6 bed and 7 bath home is presented by Cionne McCarthy and listed for $3,900,000. Not only does this listing include handcrafted woodwork throughout, along with a true wine cellar, but it also comes with a four-car garage. The area includes both direct and side entry access and features an electric door opener.

 

 

December 27, 2018 by