As the luxury real estate market continues to evolve, so do the desires of high-net-worth homeowners. From car showrooms to state-of-the-art infrared saunas, we highlight the hottest features and amenities making their way into luxury homes, as shared by Christie’s International Real Estate affiliates around the world.
Car Galleries
The modern garage has evolved far beyond a utilitarian space for parking, storage and the occasional maintenance project. Today’s car enthusiasts are transforming their garages into sleek galleries to house their collections, even integrating these showrooms with the home’s living space.
The idea of cars as art is on full display – no pun intended – at three new branded developments from some of the world’s top car makers: the Bugatti Residences in Miami and Dubai, the Bentley Residences Miami, and the Porsche Tower Miami. These residences have been designed with cars at the forefront; each features an elevator that transports homeowners’ cars from the ground level into their luxe living spaces.
Classic cars are becoming more popular as collectible investments, and demand for luxury and vintage vehicles is rising, with the classic car market projected to reach US$51.3 billion by 2028. Last year, Christie’s auction house added classic cars to their catalog, further underscoring the growing allure and popularity of vintage automobiles among the world’s most affluent individuals.
Payton Stiewe, a founding agent of Christie’s International Real Estate San Francisco, Wine Country and Marin, has seen an increase in buyers looking to ways to showcase their classic automobiles in the same way one would highlight wine or art. “Imagine art displayed on the walls, wine carefully stored in the cellar, and collector cars showcased in a pristine garage—each element reflecting an appreciation for the finer things in life.”
Biophilic Design
Bringing the outdoors in has long been a priority for luxury homeowners, but biophilic design is taking the concept to new heights. This philosophy is rooted in the connection between humans and nature in built environments, with design that blurs the lines between a home and the outdoors. Examples include soaring atriums with living walls, expansive skylights that flood rooms with natural light, tranquil indoor gardens, and water features that bring the soothing sound of nature indoors.
For many luxury homeowners, biophilic design is more than just aesthetics—it’s about creating a peaceful haven that fosters well-being. Studies show that biophilic design elements can reduce stress levels, enhance creativity and offer healing properties.
Eywa in Dubai is a prime example of the use of biophilic design. Said to be inspired by the “Tree of Life” from the movie “Avatar,” the building offers crystal gardens, water features and greenery throughout, and every unit features a private pool and a cascading waterfall.
In southwest Florida, biophilic design has long been popular, inspired by the region’s warm temperatures and typically pleasant weather that naturally encourages residents to embrace indoor-outdoor living. “Bringing the indoors outside and outdoors inside has been a common request of our clients,” says Ron Howard of John R. Wood Christie’s International Real Estate. “Whether that be through retractable glass walls that open up to waterfront views or fully equipped outdoor kitchens, our luxury clientele wants a connection to the outdoors, and they will pay for it.”
Integrating Art into the Home
Fine art has long been a defining element of luxury living. From stately mansions adorned with Renaissance masterpieces to sleek penthouses showcasing contemporary installations, art serves as more than just decoration—it reflects the personalities, values, and aspirations of its owners. Today, the integration of art into luxury homes has reached new heights, notes Ilija Pavlovic, president and CEO of Christie’s International Real Estate Group in New York.
“The ultra-high-net-worth buyers who have the means to buy a $20 million dollar home often also have impressive art collections that they want to display,” says Pavlovic. This can mean creating a dedicated space for high-value art, equipped with specialized lighting, fire suppression systems, climate control, and advanced security measures.
Furthering the connection between fine art and luxury homes, sellers of uber-luxe residences are increasingly offering the opportunity to purchase their extensive art collections alongside the home. Meanwhile, luxury developers are now bringing together home and art, working alongside artists and gallerists to curate bespoke art collections for their public spaces. One example, the under-construction oceanfront Atlantic Club in New Jersey, will feature a custom gallery-style lobby curated by Manhattan gallerist Cristina Grajales.
Infrared Saunas
According to Christie’s International Real Estate affiliates, wellness amenities will continue to take center stage in luxury homes in the coming year as buyers prioritize features that promote relaxation and overall well-being. And among the hottest of the trending wellness amenities in high-end homes? Infrared saunas.
Unlike traditional steam-focused saunas which heat the surrounding air, infrared – or IR – saunas directly heat the body through infrared light, which IR advocates say leads to better detoxification, improved circulation and pain relief, while being gentler on the cardiovascular system.
The global infrared sauna therapy industry is quickly growing and projected to reach US$5.1 billion by 2031. Gyms and health clubs are jumping on the trend, even going as far as adding treadmills that surround users with infrared technology while exercising and offering workout classes in infrared sauna rooms.
Megan Mawicke, an agent with Chicago-based @properties Christie’s International Real Estate, says luxury buyers have been laser-focused on health and wellness since the COVID-19 pandemic. “With each wellness treatment that becomes popular, there are homeowners looking for ways bring it into their living spaces,” she says.
Recreation Barns
Luxury homeowners with active lifestyles require dedicated spaces to store their equipment, which often includes ATVs, e-bikes, paddleboards and ski gear. And for many, this need extends far beyond the capacity of a standard garage.
Enter the recreation barn, a sort of “Garage 2.0.” Whether they’re called a toy barn, toy garage, or even a barndominium, these spacious, meticulously planned spaces go beyond functionality, often featuring integrated workshop stations, climate-controlled storage, and even cozy lounge areas for post-adventure relaxation.
The sprawling 417-acre estate called Camp Endo is located near the ski hills of Vermont, a haven for those who love the outdoors. The home features one of these barns, containing a three-bay garage, a heated half-basketball court and two additional bedrooms.
In the ski resort town of Park City, Utah, outdoor sports are a fact of life – 98% of residents say they participate in nature and recreation-related activities. Here, “large garages for toys and vehicles are important to a lot of buyers,” said Sam Cubis, co-founder of Christie’s International Real Estate Park City. “With so many activities year-round, it’s not uncommon to find a garage with an ATV beside several e-bikes, kayaks hanging from the ceiling, and racks of skis on the walls.”
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