Redefining Contemporary City Living

Buzz, energy, boundless choice – that’s the lure of city living. To be in the thick of culture, art, gastronomy, and community; to be in the midst of change and witness the spark of a collective idea; where some see a metropolis as a weighty undertaking, choosing to retreat to the calm refuge of the countryside instead, others revel in the unique energy and character of a city.

In destination cities especially, urban real estate never sleeps. Like the skyline, the best spots to live are constantly changing. New builds, new neighborhoods, and new routines continue to redefine contemporary city life, with unimaginable units stealing the show.

Paris, France

Paris Ouest Sotheby’s International Realty | Contact Geoffrey Benoit for more information

The incredible Parisian city views from the rooftop terrace alone make this eighth arrondissement Champs-Elysées jewel one of the most coveted spots in the city. Note the Arc de Triomphe, Eiffel Tower, and sloping hills of Montmartre in the distance, all a beautiful backdrop to the vegetable garden and summer kitchen.

Indoors, three floors play host to an incredible master with its own balcony, a cozy living room, and walk-in fitness studio; open plan kitchen and dining room; plus additional bedrooms for inevitable visitors.

Tel Aviv, Israel

Israel Sotheby’s International Realty | Contact Shelly Belzer-Shmelzer for more information

Soft skies, sandy tones and breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea are offset by the sharp contemporary interior of Sea One Tower. One of the most adventurous additions to the Tel Aviv skyline, Sea One combines all the amenities of a five-star hotel with the privacy of a permanent residence. Three lavish bedrooms, a generous living room with striking staircase, and custom kitchen will be hard to leave, even with the beachfront just an elevator ride away.

Berlin, Germany

Berlin Sotheby’s International Realty | Click here for more information

Incredible modern design and a sweeping open concept bring out the beauty of this stunning Berlin loft. While the building itself dates back to 1911, the refreshed interior is decidedly minimalist, stacked with design greats: beautiful baths by Antonio Lupi, floors by Schotten & Hansen, Miele kitchen fixtures, as well as Salvatori sandstone.

Floor-to-ceiling windows invite light across strategically hung art and long-table dinners. Should you wish to briefly leave this fine flat, shops and international culinary choices dot the Charlottenburg streets below.

Riga, Latvia

Baltic Sotheby’s International Realty | Contact Liga Abolina for more information

Sleek uncomplicated living arrives via the Club Central Residence in Riga’s Old Town. Modern architecture with hints of historic building tradition make it a welcome addition to the neighborhood.

The grand, three-meter-high ceilings, eco-friendly wood flooring and designer tiling complement a contemporary, sleek layout. A private British-style club, available exclusively for residents and their guests, adds another interior to your space here. Top it off with white-glove concierge service and a charming, historic locale for a true taste of the Latvian lifestyle.

Los Angeles, USA

Sotheby’s International Realty – Pasadena Brokerage | Contact Peter Martocchio and David Goldberg for more information

Industrial-chic sensibilities, loft living, and an unusually playful past collide in this one-of-a-kind toy factory conversion, located in the heart of Los Angeles’s arts district.

Designer Andrea Michaelson turned up the dial on the building’s industrial heritage, offering a playground for metals, woods and textured glass, only occasionally restrained by the thoughtful antique fixtures and warm accents. A high-end kitchen is a jungle of reflections, offering ample room to both prepare and entertain across the open-concept dining space.

Respite from nights at local hotspots comes in many forms: soaking in the Japanese soaker tub, spa like cleansing under the dual Pulse shower, or even unwinding in the rooftop pool.

New York, USA

Sotheby’s International Realty – Downtown Manhattan Brokerage | Contact Contact Brad Ingalls, Mara Flash Blum, Kevin B. Brown, and Nikki Field for more information

The Crown Penthouse at 212 Fifth Avenue isn’t pulling any punches. At over 10,000 square-feet of living space, this Manhattan marvel is nearing legendary status. Along with 5,700 square-feet of terrace space, captivatingly-designed rooms provide views of the city’s iconic skyline; the Empire State Building, Flatiron Building, and World Trade Center illuminate the night sky.

Inside, the details are equally impressive: an incredible bronze staircase commands the foyer, gallery-sized walls welcome curated artwork, and a marble and glass library fireplace steals words. Smart home technologies and top-of-the-line finishes plus 24-hour door and concierge service—all indications that you’ve arrived.

When you’re ready to settle into a complex, urban landscape and revel in all that your favorite metropolis has to offer, it’s reassuring to know that a choice sanctuary still lies in wait.

Top Photo: Sotheby’s International Realty – Pasadena Brokerage

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