From historic townhouses in London to private islands near New York, and sprawling estates in the American West, this week’s luxury real estate market features a captivating blend of heritage, innovative design, and exclusive lifestyles.
Homes in the News: Artistic Flair Meets Timeless Elegance
This week’s headlines showcase an eclectic mix of exquisite properties that reflect both personal heritage and bold creativity. Claire Courtin-Clarins, granddaughter of the founder of the famed Clarins skincare brand, has put her uniquely designed London townhouse on the market for $7.9 million. Nestled near the vibrant Portobello Road, this home is a masterclass in design, blending Provençal warmth with Scandinavian simplicity and antique European elements like 18th-century tiles sourced from Lisbon and Provence. The townhouse reflects Courtin-Clarins’s artistic sensibility and a deep connection to her family’s legacy.
Meanwhile, in San Francisco’s prestigious Pacific Heights, a 123-year-old townhouse has been reinvented as a canvas for contemporary design in the annual Decorator Showcase. Priced at $19.5 million, the home is a visual feast, featuring a Moroccan-inspired red tented dining room and a rooftop lounge evocative of the 1970s. This residence transcends luxury living by supporting philanthropy, having contributed over $19 million to the financial aid program of San Francisco University High School since 1977, proving that exquisite homes can also serve a greater purpose.
On the East Coast, Rogers Island—a private 7.65-acre retreat in Connecticut’s Thimble Islands—is back on the market for nearly $30 million. Owned by Greg Jensen, co-chief investment officer of Bridgewater Associates, this historic property boasts a 123-year-old Tudor home with 10 bedrooms, a saltwater pool, tennis courts, and multiple outbuildings. Accessible only by boat, the island offers an unparalleled combination of privacy and prestige, complete with a mainland compound to accommodate guests.
Regional Gems: From Desert Charm to Coastal Grandeur
Venturing southwest, a Mesa, Arizona mansion channels the essence of the French countryside amid desert surroundings. Rustic beams, stone finishes, and manicured gardens evoke a refined yet relaxed ambiance, creating a striking contrast to the arid landscape. This estate exemplifies how European elegance can be seamlessly adapted to the Southwestern lifestyle.
In Oregon, the Seawinds Estate stands as a pinnacle of oceanfront luxury. Spread across 28 acres, this estate features a private beach, helipad, and breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. Expansive interiors blend effortlessly with dramatic natural surroundings, offering residents a rare combination of seclusion, grandeur, and connection to nature. California also has its share of historic charm with a waterfront mansion that was once a tavern. Now transformed into a $28 million luxury residence, the home combines historical significance with modern amenities, boasting direct waterfront access and a coveted location along the coast.
In Austin, Texas, modern architecture takes center stage with a minimalist home that redefines exurban living. Emphasizing sustainability and seamless indoor-outdoor transitions, this residence immerses its inhabitants in nature while offering contemporary comforts and sleek design.
Historic and Cultural Treasures: From Princeton to Manhattan
History lovers have much to admire in this week’s listings. Woodrow Wilson’s former Princeton residence is now available for $6.5 million. The stately home honors the legacy of the 28th U.S. president with period architecture and beautifully maintained grounds that speak to its rich past.
Closer to Manhattan, photographer Clara Aich is selling her unique brownstone residence in Kip’s Bay for $7.95 million. Built in 1848 and once a sculpture foundry, the ivy-covered home preserves its artistic heritage with original features intact. Aich’s dual use of the space as both home and studio for nearly five decades adds layers of creative history to this extraordinary property. Meanwhile, the Elinor S. Gimbel House on New York’s Upper East Side, tied to the famous Gimbels department store family, is asking $13.5 million. This Italianate-style mansion, dating from the late 19th century, offers over 6,000 square feet of living space, including five bedrooms and elegant outdoor gardens, blending history with modern luxury.
Affordable Luxury and Notable Sales: Marrakech and Beyond
Luxury does not always mean astronomical prices. In Marrakesh, Morocco, homes priced around $500,000 offer buyers a gateway to rich culture and stunning architecture. From traditional riads featuring serene courtyards to villas with sweeping desert views, these properties encapsulate the vibrant spirit of the city and its architectural heritage, making luxury accessible to a broader market.
In the U.S., notable sales have made headlines as well. California billionaires Duane and Kelly J. Roberts acquired a 1930s European-style oceanfront villa in Palm Beach for $48.5 million. The sprawling 13,000-square-foot estate with 10 bedrooms and oceanfront dunes has a history of high-profile rentals and is set for a major renovation as the Roberts join the affluent Palm Beach community. Additionally, the former clifftop home of Grateful Dead drummer Bill Kreutzmann in Hawaii recently sold. Known for its stunning ocean views and tranquil tropical setting, the property reflects a perfect harmony between natural beauty and seclusion, once serving as a creative sanctuary for the legendary musician.
The Intersection of Legacy, Lifestyle, and Innovation
The luxury real estate market in the third week of May 2025 reflects an intriguing fusion of history, art, culture, and cutting-edge design. Whether it’s a historic townhouse in London or a private island in Connecticut, each property tells a unique story that extends beyond bricks and mortar.
From philanthropic endeavors in San Francisco to sustainable modern living in Austin, today’s luxury homes are not just about opulence—they are about lifestyle, heritage, and meaning. These curated estates invite buyers to immerse themselves in spaces that inspire creativity, celebrate history, and embrace the natural world.
As luxury real estate continues to evolve, these extraordinary properties offer a glimpse into a world where exclusivity meets purpose, and where every home is a testament to the dreams and legacies of its owners.
