The Great Outdoors: 5 Fantastic Terraces

Warmer nights and longer days are perfect reasons for lingering outside. These five homes—from Chelsea to California wine country—have terraces ideal for reveling in the fresh air, soaking up some sun, and gazing at sparkling stars.

Enchanting Wine Country Hideaway

Santa Rosa, California | Holly Bennett, Sotheby’s International Realty – Wine Country – East Napa Street Brokerage

Enveloped by Pinot Noir vineyards, mountains, gardens, and tall trees on 8.6 acres, this three-bedroom farmhouse-inspired residence and 1,000-square-foot guesthouse are a delightful setting for quintessential indoor-outdoor living and entertaining. Nearly every room of the 3,827-square-foot home enjoys an idyllic view, and vistas expand on the placid grounds, which boast roses, lavender, a vineyard, a bocce court, a fire pit, and a terrace and dining arbor surrounding a revitalizing pool.

L.A. Oasis

Los Angeles, California | Alexis Valentin Ramos, Sotheby’s International Realty – Beverly Hills Brokerage

Inspired by the classic stylings of Cape Cod getaways, this elegant and inviting home features a formal living room, a spacious great room, a kosher eat-in chef’s kitchen, five bedrooms—including an owner’s suite with two walk-in closets and a balcony—and off-street parking for four cars. The generous backyard beckons with its alluring pool and spa, fire pit, and breezy covered lounging area with a fireplace. Tall hedges create a green curtain of privacy.

Sophisticated Style in Chelsea

New York, New York | Mae H. Bagai, Sotheby’s International Realty – East Side Manhattan Brokerage

Floor-to-ceiling windows fill this 5,200-square-foot Chelsea home with glorious light and offer sweeping views of the Manhattan skyline. The thoughtful floor plan features living and dining rooms, an expertly equipped kitchen, a study, and six serene bedrooms. The residence also enjoys 1,900 square feet of outdoor living space—accessible via stairs or private elevator—including a full-floor rooftop deck with a pool and a bath and two chic terraces perfect for alfresco lounging and entertaining.

Urban Villa

Houston, Texas | Stuart Groves, Martha Turner Sotheby’s International Realty 

Spanish in inspiration yet utterly modern in comfort and convenience, this distinctive Houston home sits on a desirable corner lot across from Caceres Park and its enchanting fountain. Meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail can be found throughout, from the spacious living room and well-outfitted kitchen to the three peaceful bedrooms. All five levels are linked by an elevator and a gracefully curving central staircase. The inviting rooftop terrace includes a fireplace and enjoys a view across neighboring rooftops toward the downtown skyline.

Pacific Heights Penthouse

San Francisco, California | Annie Williams, Sotheby’s International Realty – San Francisco Brokerage

On the top two levels of a timeless Pacific Heights building, this refined condominium residence pairs handsome woodwork, decorative ironwork, stained glass, and other classical elements with three restful bedrooms and sleek contemporary baths. Highlights include living and dining rooms, a light-filled kitchen, a two-room owner’s suite, and a family room with a wet bar. Crowning it all is a terrace with an enviable view of the city and the bay. Alta Plaza Park and the shops and restaurants of Fillmore Street are steps away.

Discover luxury homes for sale and rent around the world on sothebysrealty.com