Strong design is a delicate balance of form and function. Homes need to reflect more than just our aesthetic principles—they need to suit our values as well. As global concern for climate change grows, so too do the number of “green” homes on the market. The challenge becomes finding an environmentally-conscious home where the luxury experience is not lost. Here are six eco-homes that manage to be both mindful and magnificent.

A private island represents the ultimate coastal fantasy. Experts approximate that there are only some 2,000 in the entire world suitable enough for development. In order for the development of a property to take place, a stringent mix of the right environmental, geographical, and altitudinal factors need to be met. In order words, an island exudes exclusivity. From privacy to Crusoe-inspired adventure, take a look at the magic of private island ownership through the windows of this Pym Island estate, located off the coast of British Columbia, Canada.

New Zealand’s government will ban foreigners from buying residential property, making good on its promise to crack down on offshore speculators who it says are partly to blame for spiraling house prices.

Increased privacy, lower levels of stress, even a higher life expectancy—there are many arguments to be made for life in the British Isles. Comprising the islands of Great Britain, Ireland, the Isle of Man, and many other smaller isles in the archipelago, the British Isles are host to some of the world’s most breathtaking coastal vistas and idyllic rolling hills. Whether you’re looking for a vacation home or a permanent residence, a cottage in an English hamlet or a house in the Irish countryside is the perfect answer to both.

A vast land of lakes and rivers, quiet forests, and majestic fjords, Québec is the largest province in Canada—and one of the most geographically diverse. As such, its range of vacation properties will satisfy the most discerning buyer, no matter what particular features they may be looking for. Whether the holiday home of your dreams is a low-key lakefront oasis, a ski-friendly log cabin, a well-kept country cottage, or an architectural marvel from which to appreciate the stunning foliage of a French Canadian autumn, Québec has a luxury option for you.

Vienna has ended Melbourne’s seven-year reign as the world’s most liveable city, according to the Economist Intelligence Unit.

The Austrian capital scored a near perfect score of 99.1 out of 100 in the index, whose criteria include stability, healthcare and the environment. Cities in Australia and Canada took six of the top 10 spots, with the U.S. again missing out.

Larry Page’s ‘city of the future’ on Toronto’s waterfront may end up having one foot rooted firmly in the past.

Sidewalk Labs LLC, the urban innovation unit of Alphabet Inc., is considering constructing buildings in the 4.9-hectare (12-acre) high-tech community entirely with tall-timber technology -- engineered wood products that proponents say are as strong and fire-resistant as those made from steel or concrete. 

Ah, condo patios—that beautiful little slice of outdoors in the sky, the oasis built into your urban home. An oasis that can quickly become overrun with pots of neglected plants, mismatched garden furniture, and bikes waiting to be stored.

A versatile space that works as a living area, an outdoor entertainment zone and a home extension, a beautiful patio can increase the value of your home. It’s also one of the least expensive upgrades you can make. If your patio is older or suffering from some wear and tear, or if you’re adding a new patio, a few carefully planned upgrades can help elevate the look and feel of your whole home. Here are some tips to keep in mind.

“Home sales result in substantial spin-off benefits to the economy, so the positive results over the last two months are encouraging. However, no one will argue that housing supply remains an issue. The new provincial government and candidates for the upcoming municipal elections need to concentrate on policies focused on enhancing the supply of housing and reducing the upfront tax burden represented by land transfer taxes, province-wide and additionally in the City of Toronto,”

‘Tis the season for pool parties, barbecues, and beach bonfires—and the backyard is the ideal spot for summer gatherings of all types, from casual evenings with friends to glittering soirées. No matter what your ideal when it comes to entertaining your guests, you’ll be inspired by the array of opportunities afforded by these six gorgeous properties across Canada.

Opting for vertical living has long involved tradeoffs: services versus square footage, turnkey versus autonomy, convenience versus community. But with highly equipped, low-density condominium towers, buyers no longer have to compromise: Distinctive architecture, oversize residences and ultra-luxe services are turning high-rise structures into high-networth communities, with amenities fostering social interaction and a sense of place among affluent neighbors.

When it comes to perfect cottage getaways, Ontario holds the coveted crown. Awash in picturesque islands, pristine beaches, and historic small towns, the province is a premier recreational destination in Canada’s great outdoors. Whether you’re venturing to Muskoka Lakes or the 1000 Islands, Ontario’s cottage country offers good food, great festivals, and the chance to unplug from hectic city life. From lakefront views to suppers beneath the stars, from cozy, wood-panelled dens to roaring fireplaces, see why weekenders and celebrities alike love to escape to Canada’s central countryside.

With over 117 million lakes across the globe, lakeside living is much more than Adirondack chairs and sunsets. Water is in and of itself life giving, so it’s no wonder civilizations have been drawn to it for centuries. From jetting out across its surface to standing in awe of its natural beauty, however you define a water-filled day, these unique properties on remote lakes are ready to host your next adventure.

With bohemian flair, an exuberant nightlife, and a fascinating blend of Portuguese and Indian influence, India’s resplendent resort state of Goa has long served as a popular vacation destination amongst travelers in the know. These days, rustic yoga retreats are as commonplace as five-star hotels, and the call of the coast is transforming an ever-growing list of former tourists into expats seeking to cultivate a lifestyle of wellness and relaxation. With ample expanses of golden sandy beaches, the smallest state in the subcontinent offers no shortage of captivating coastal homes.

True minimal design is all about letting the design elements in a space speak for themselves. Whether you’re looking to completely renovate your home or simply update one room, these minimal interior design ideas will help you maximize the impact of your next project.

Sweeping views are impressive, but rooms with abundant windows can present design challenges. Will that dramatic chandelier obscure a sight line to the mountains? You love all of that natural light, but what about the glare it creates on your flat-screen TV? Success lies in choosing well-proportioned furniture and paying close attention to the intended use of a space. 

The New York-based designer, potter and author Jonathan Adler is one of the great contemporary polymaths. Inspired by mid-20th-century design heroes such as Gio Ponti, Alexander Girard and David Hicks, he recognizes no boundaries between different disciplines and works across ceramics, furniture, lighting and textiles, as well as creating interiors for private and commercial clients. Adler’s unique take on “happy chic” has seen his business grow in the past 25 years to encompass more than 20 stores worldwide (including London), while landmark projects include the interior design of the Parker Palm Springs hotel.

WPP Plc, the global advertising and marketing company, will be the anchor tenant at a new development on Toronto’s waterfront.

The London-based firm will lease about 260,000 square feet (about 24,000 square meters) at Menkes Development Ltd.’s Waterfront Innovation Centre on Queens Quay East.

Summer is in full swing, bringing with it long days, shimmering pools, cocktails, and lazy afternoons with the latest bestsellers. For the innovative homeowner, the pool patio can be so much more than a functional space for dripping on the concrete. From cozy furnishings to vivid foliage, here are some ideas to refresh your backyard and turn your major water feature into a fabulous oasis.