The Priceless Value of Outdoor Living: Embracing Chicago's Seasonal Beauty
The Power and Beauty of Outdoor Spaces in Chicago Chicago, a bustling metropolis known for its stunning architecture and vibrant cultural scene, offers a unique blend of urban living and natural beauty. One of the city's greatest assets is its outdoor spaces, which play a crucial role in enhancing the quality of life for its residents. Whether you live in a sprawling single-family home or a luxurious high-rise, the importance and impact of these outdoor spaces are profound, providing a sanctuary for relaxation, recreation, and connection with nature. 456 W Barry Street - East Lakeview 1524 N Astor Street - Gold Coast Seasonality and Its Charm Living in the Midwest means experiencing the full spectrum of seasons, each bringing its own charm and opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. In spring, the city's parks and gardens burst into bloom, offering a refreshing escape from the confines of winter. Summer is a time for festivals, picnics, and long days by the lakefront, where the cool breeze off Lake Michigan provides relief from the heat. Autumn transforms Chicago into a canvas of vibrant colors, perfect for scenic walks and outdoor activities. Even winter, with its crisp air and occasional snow, has its own allure, inviting residents to embrace the season with ice skating, holiday markets, and cozy evenings by an outdoor fire pit. 6 N Michigan Avenue 1804 Maximizing Outdoor Spaces In a city like Chicago, where real estate is at a premium, families have become adept at maximizing every inch of their outdoor spaces. From expansive backyards in single-family homes to the chic balconies and terraces of high-rise condos, these areas are designed to extend living spaces and provide a retreat from the urban hustle. Outdoor kitchens, fire pits, and comfortable seating areas transform backyards into year-round entertainment hubs. Vertical gardens and container plants bring greenery to balconies, creating urban oases in the sky. Engravers Lofts - South Loop Communal space is a premium when you just need to get outside. Many large buildings today have placed a premium on providing a new level for residents use. The investment in these outdoor spaces, both in terms of time and effort, is significant, but the returns are invaluable. Families gather for barbecues, children play in safe, open areas, and individuals find solace in a personal connection with nature. These moments of joy, relaxation, and togetherness are priceless, contributing to a higher quality of life and well-being. 77 E Cedar Street - Gold Coast The Value of Space The presence of well-designed outdoor spaces significantly enhances the value of real estate in Chicago. In the luxury market, where properties are judged not just by their interior features but by the lifestyle they offer, outdoor spaces can be a game-changer. Homes with expansive gardens, rooftop terraces with panoramic views, and private courtyards command premium prices. Buyers are willing to invest in properties that offer a seamless blend of indoor and outdoor living, understanding that these spaces provide a unique and irreplaceable quality of life. 421 E North Water Street For sellers, enhancing outdoor areas can lead to higher resale values and quicker sales. Simple improvements like adding landscaping, updating patio furniture, or installing outdoor lighting can make a property more appealing. In the competitive Chicago real estate market, these features can set a property apart, making it a sought-after commodity. 538 Deming Place A Little Effort, A Big Reward Creating and maintaining beautiful outdoor spaces requires effort, but the rewards are substantial. Regular maintenance, thoughtful design, and seasonal updates ensure that these areas remain inviting and functional throughout the year. The investment in landscaping, outdoor furniture, and amenities is often recouped many times over, not just in financial terms, but in the countless hours of enjoyment and relaxation they provide. 310 S Michigan Avenue 2501 - Loop 676 Kingsbury PH01 In a world where urban living often means high stress and fast-paced routines, outdoor spaces offer a vital counterbalance. They provide a place to unwind, to reconnect with nature, and to spend quality time with loved ones. This connection to the outdoors is essential for mental and physical health, contributing to a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle. 1316 N Astor Street - Gold Coast Historic District The power and beauty of outdoor spaces in Chicago cannot be overstated. Whether you live in a grand single-family home or a sophisticated high-rise, these areas are integral to the quality of life. The seasonality of the Midwest adds a dynamic element, offering new ways to enjoy the outdoors throughout the year. As families continue to recognize the importance of these spaces, the value of real estate that offers exceptional outdoor living will only continue to rise. The effort put into creating and maintaining these areas is rewarded with immeasurable joy, relaxation, and a deeper connection to the world around us. In the end, while you can't put a price on these experiences, their impact is undeniably priceless.
"Quiet Luxury" Moves from the Runways to the Street
"Quiet Luxury" Moves from the Runways to the Street Remember "quiet luxury" and "stealth wealth"? These were the trendiest buzzwords in the fashion world last year as the wealthy gravitated towards products that whispered, as opposed to screamed, fine quality. Flashy logos and conspicuous consumption are out — but the quiet luxury movement is not just relegated to the runways now. It's also alive and well in the luxury real estate space. Per CNBC, Hermes, Prada-owned Miu Miu and Brunello Cucinelli are among the "quiet luxury" brand names that are performing well as stocks. These companies outperformed their loud peers by 23% points, said Hou Wey Fook, chief investment officer of DBS Bank. Investors appear to be looking beyond traditional luxury picks like Gucci and Burberry. LVMH, Richemont, and Swatch are also investor favorites, as they're better known for their understated elegance. In general, luxury stocks are often recession-proof since they cater to high-net-worth individuals who aren't as fazed by economic downturns. However, the widespread embrace of quiet luxury reflects a genuine shift in consumer behavior that luxury real estate professionals should watch closely. This trend is more than a fleeting fashion statement; it’s a philosophy deeply rooted in the preferences of today’s affluent buyers. In my experience as a real estate broker specializing in the luxury market, I’ve seen a marked shift towards properties that embody the essence of quiet luxury. These buyers are seeking homes that exude quality and craftsmanship, with materials and design that stand the test of time rather than ostentatious displays of wealth. Homes with understated elegance, such as bespoke finishes, artisanal details, and timeless architectural designs, are highly coveted. Affluent buyers appreciate properties where the luxury is evident in the subtle, refined details — like a meticulously crafted kitchen, a serene and private outdoor space, or a well-appointed library. This shift towards quiet luxury is not just about personal preference but also about making a statement. High-net-worth individuals are increasingly valuing privacy and discretion, choosing homes that offer a sanctuary away from the public eye. This trend aligns with the investment behaviors we're seeing; discerning clients are gravitating towards brands and properties that embody sophistication without shouting for attention. Photo: Casa Design Group By staying ahead of the curve on trends like quiet luxury, as real estate agents we remain trusted advisors, helping clients find properties that truly resonate with their values and lifestyles. Craftsmanship, quality, and timeless design are winning the day in the luxury real estate market right now, and understanding these preferences is a critical key to building lasting relationships with high-value clients. In our experience, our clients expect nothing less.
The Maximalist
The Maximalist After 30 years at Estée Lauder, the former group president made an unexpected pivot. Now he’s back – with a new job, the support of his friends and a book that explores his singular style and philosophy on life. It’s a clear morning, and the sky over Manhattan wears the same blue as the front door of the man who had to start over at 67. For over 30 years, John Demsey was a highly regarded businessman, extending his influence far beyond the United States. During this time, the son of a painter and an industrialist from Ohio transformed the originally very classical and conservative image of the Lauder company with provocative beauty projects, especially with the MAC brand and later Tom Ford. He made diversity-promoting pop stars such as Lil’ Kim, Missy Elliott, and RuPaul celebrated brand ambassadors. As Group President, he achieved staggeringly high revenues, propelling the company from a mid-sized family business to a publicly traded global conglomerate, temporarily valued at over $100 million. John Demsey became a star in the beauty industry and was also a frequent and welcome guest in private circles. As Chairman of the MAC AIDS Fund, he raised a total of more than $500 million for AIDS assistance. When the COVID lockdowns began, the divorced father of a 15-year-old daughter started reposting amusing memes on his private Instagram account, gaining 73,000 followers. “It quickly became a large community. People from all over the world approached me and said, ‘Thank you! You made me cry, laugh, and feel. As a Senior Advisor at L. Catterton, a private equity firm connected with LVMH, he embarked on an unusual book project with Vendome Press after being persuaded by his friends, interior photographer Douglas Friedman and fashion journalist Alina Cho. The plan: a coffee-table book about his unique life, aesthetics and philosophy. “My friend Douglas said: ‘Your house has been seen in Architectural Digests around the world, but no one has really captured the personality behind it. You – who understands the art of collecting like no other and wants to live creativity without boundaries.’” The photo production lasted 17 days. Together with Dutch stylist Mieke ten Have, Demsey showcased his masterfully decorated house. “The project became almost a physical manifestation of who I am, a creative passion project,” he recalls. The work “Behind the Blue Door – A Maximalist Mantra” was published just over six months ago. A glamorous book party in his house last September marked Demsey’s reentry into New York’s society: “I had a lot of support from the fashion world.” Demsey also highlights the exceptional friendship and mentorship of Leonard Lauder in our conversation, saying: “He remains a positive force in my life.” John Demsey continues to run his Instagram account. Today he has 2.1 million followers. @jdempsey This story originally appeared in and courtesy of https://www.gg-magazine.com/en/2024/03/der-maximalist
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