The Technological Advancements Making Singapore a Global Hotspot | From Marina Bay Sands to Merlion Park, Singapore’s architecture and iconography have become synonymous with life in a modern city. The city-state has emerged from its humble beginnings as a small fishing village to become a major economic player competing on the global stage—and a destination of choice for many of the world’s entrepreneurs and high-end homebuyers.

How did Singapore go from outpost to powerhouse? And how is it rising to the challenge of a modern digital age? Long before becoming the international city of the moment, Singapore laid the groundwork by investing in the technology and infrastructure now bringing its residents and visitors superlative quality of life. 

Design | 7 Futuristic Materials Having a Moment - What makes a house truly feel like a home? Aside from the events that take place between its walls, much of a home’s personality is found in the materials, textures, and accents that bring it together. While it can be time-consuming to keep up with the latest design trends—especially the perennials that come in and out with the seasons—incorporating the latest high-end materials into your home is an easy way to give a space an instant, luxurious update. From cozy fabrics to rich metals, here are seven futuristic materials to freshen any room.

Luxury Properties for Sale Over $30 Million | From an architectural masterpiece in Cote d’Azur, France to the Heathfield House, an exceptional modern mansion in London, England, these are this month’s four featured notable properties for sale over $30 million.

Sidewalk Toronto Press Release | Following yesterday’s announcement of a tentative deal with Waterfront Toronto - Last June, we submitted our proposal for Toronto’s eastern waterfront to Waterfront Toronto. The 1,524-page document reflected 18 months of work and feedback from tens of thousands of Torontonians and hundreds of public officials. 

The proposal represents our best thinking to date on the path to creating the most innovative place in the world, right here in Toronto. Our proposal was bold, but it was also a draft— subject to additional public consultations, further refinement, and government approvals. 

Market Watch | September 2019 - Toronto Real Estate Board President Michael Collins announced that Greater Toronto Area REALTORS® reported 7,825 sales through TREB's MLS® System in September 2019. This result represented strong year-over-year sales growth of 22 per cent compared to 6,414 sales reported in September 2018. It is important to note, however, that sales remain well-below the record September 2016 peak of more than 9,800 sales.

"Come on in, the water's fine!" | Five Stylish Indoor Swimming Pools - Few things are more enticing than a dip in a swimming pool, no matter the season. But warm weather is fleeting, and these indoor pools—from Connecticut to Carmel—allow for year-round enjoyment while surrounded by polished style and dramatic views.

Inside Marc Jacob’s Stylish West Village Townhouse | Marc Jacobs’ contributions to the design world are many – and as of late, he has been very busy. In April, the cultural icon and his husband put their New York townhome up for sale; in September, pieces of his incredible art collection was part of a Sotheby’s Hong Kong auction; and just last week, he sat down with Sotheby’s Amy Cappellazzo to discuss how his relationships and the places he’s visited have shaped his personal tastes. As Jacobs prepares for his new Frank Lloyd Wright home, let’s explore his stylish former West Village townhome.

On the third floor of Montreal’s Belgo Building — originally the site of a short- lived luxury department store in the early 1900s and now home to more than 30 independent art galleries — Nathon Kong is showing artists’ works on display in a brightly lit stark white room. The fashion designer then casually leans onto a wall that swings open to reveal his intimate atelier, all sumptuous colours and textures, everything illuminated like a theatrical production.

Artists are using their eyes to read books in a different way, architects are building residences that mirror their environments, and interior designers are rediscovering the finer points of magnificent details. Here are the latest trends in art, architecture, and design.

6 Modern Kitchen Features Every Home Needs | No remodel adds more value to your home than a kitchen overhaul: your efforts to update a kitchen often net out in a positive return on investment. But many modern kitchens are also replete with the kinds of bells and whistles that only the most serious cooks will ever use. Bypass the extraneous when you revamp by noting the following kitchen makeover must-haves.

5 Historic Homes That Tell A Story | The homes we live in tell a story, and the older the house, the more it has to say. Today we look at five extraordinary properties that outlasted wars, economic booms and downfalls, seen owners of fame on the world stage, and proprietors of local notoriety. These homes have been lovingly cared for, with their storied elements protected and restored. From the relatively new history of the United States and a fortress in Europe, to a playwright’s estate in between, these historic homes still have a lot more life to live

Shelf Awareness | 6 Inviting Home Libraries | Even though reading on a Kindle or an iPad is more popular than ever, nothing quite matches the experience of relaxing with an actual printed book. From colorful and comfortable to stately and formal, these 6 home libraries are distinctive places to display and enjoy favorite works.

Luxury Properties for Sale Over $24 Million | From an elegant, French chateau-inspired estate in Ontario to the Elysian House, an architectural masterpiece in London, England, these are this month’s four featured notable properties for sale over $24 million.

Nestled in Toronto’s ritzy Yorkville neighbourhood, home to Chanel, Versace, Hermès and other luxury retailers, At Your Service, Fashion Insider Shares the Go-To Spots Gathered From Their Travels | Cabine is an anomaly. It’s housed in an unassuming brownstone identified only by its bright pink door, and gaining entrance is by invitation or appointment only. The intimate Cabine retail experience was founded by fashion veteran Nicholas Mellamphy and officially opened for business in 2018. Mellamphy brings one-of-a-kind pieces from the runways each season right to his clients — a small group of women from around the world who just happen to include celebrities and royalty (he doesn’t divulge names).

Events Happening in Toronto this October | Check out some of the hottest events taking place across the Greater Toronto Area this October. The fun gets started with Nuit Blanche on Saturday October 5th.

2019 Top-Tier Fall Market Forcast | Emboldened consumer confidence and solid economic fundamentals in Canada’s largest housing market position the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) to lead Canadian top-tier real estate performance this fall. New data compiled by Sotheby’s International Realty Canada reveal that GTA residential real estate sales over $1 million saw bold gains over the summer months, increasing 29% year-over-year in July and August. Significant increases were experienced across every housing type as condominium, attached and single family home sales over $1 million rose 13%, 45% and 29% from 2018 levels respectively. Preliminary sales figures for the first fifteen days of September also suggest robust fall activity ahead, as overall $1 million-plus sales surged 53% year-over-year, while sales over $4 million rose 75%.

The evolution of luxury is personal, and for many, it is defined by experience, not price | In this issue of Insight: The Art of Living, we introduce you to people and places that reflect the future of luxury, as defined by creativity, craftsmanship and elevated experience, rather than simply by the price tag. You will meet notable Canadian designers Liz Eeuwes and Calla Haynes whose experimental styles are invigorating the world of high-end carpet-making. We’ll take you on a global journey to meet gourmet chocolatiers, such as CXBO, which makes edible art in Toronto, and To’ak in Ecuador, whose aged tree-to-bar chocolate pairs with vintage wines and fine whisky. Then join us as we explore the culturally rich, dynamic cities of Montreal, London and Cape Town, where luxury and design are being taken to new levels.

6 Home Offices That Get the Job Done | A home office is non-negotiable for the busy professional. With designs that are both efficient and elegant, these quiet, welcoming spaces help keep work from encroaching on life and may inspire increased productivity and new ideas.

Less is More: 8 Minimalist Interior Design Trends | 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.

5 Contemporary Dwellings in Ibiza | For those looking to make the most of summer, thankfully, there’s Ibiza. Surrounded by vibrant Mediterranean waters, the third-largest Balearic Island is the definition of paradise. Though the island is known for its vibrant nightlife and live electronic music shows, a foray into the countryside and the island’s quieter villages reveals a more balanced tranquility. Here are five homes that embrace contemporary style without losing out on any of the dynamism of Ibiza.