Lynn Malone and Barbara Wolveridge – Queensland Sotheby’s International Realty
Of the 12 animals represented in the Chinese zodiac, only one is mythical—revered in history, customs, and culture for its might and munificence. So it’s an auspicious sign that the year 2024 is the Year of the Dragon.
In Chinese astrology, each year is associated with one of the 12 animals. But each animal also cycles through the five traditional elements of fire, earth, metal, water, and wood. These elements have their own symbolic relevances—and since 2024 is the year of the wood dragon, the attributes of “wood” play a significant role in setting the stage for the year ahead.
With the admirable attributes of dragons and the winning traits of wood, it seems there’s a lot to look forward to in the coming year. Here, these characteristics are expressed and explored further through five outstanding homes.
Impressive Bordering on Imperial
Barcelona & Costa Brava Sotheby’s International Realty
Dragons are so exalted in Chinese folklore that the emperors of yore claimed to be their direct descendants. Therefore, it’s no surprise that this sign of the zodiac is known for drive, determination, and self-assurance. For those born during a dragon year, lofty ambition is fuelled by the type of unwavering confidence befitting a sovereign.
Barcelona & Costa Brava Sotheby’s International Realty
A residence like this neoclassical villa in Barcelona is a suitable complement to this most venerable animal of the zodiac. Not only does it boast 12 bedrooms as well as separate accommodations for four staff, but its spectacular living room has been aptly dubbed the “dragon room,” with bright accents of red and gold—the two luckiest colors of the Lunar New Year season—and a hearth bedecked in scale-like tiles.
Pursuing Interests and Inspiration
Catherine Casalicchio – Daniel Ravenel Sotheby’s International Realty
In Western culture, dragons are often depicted as malevolent monsters that spout flames. That’s not the case in Eastern cultures, where these creatures are benevolent divinities that restore life to the planet with life-nourishing rain.
Catherine Casalicchio – Daniel Ravenel Sotheby’s International Realty
With a prominent position on a lush Hilton Head Island peninsula and a private deepwater dock, this elegant country estate shares the dragon’s energy, vitality, and ability to cultivate an engaging and enriching life. The kitchen demonstrates this perfectly, with a brass and enamel stove outfitted in those auspicious hues of gold and red, as well as luxury brand appliances and a central countertop of solid teak.
Dragons are all about dynamism and passion, and the sense of boundlessness created by this home—and the way its location promotes activity, recreation, and health—makes this property a perfect match.
A Luminary With Vigor and Vision
List Sotheby’s International Realty, Thailand
As 2024 is a wood dragon, what does the element bring to the equation? Wood is connected to growth, conveying themes of ongoing improvement and self-actualization—bold ideas, broad perspectives, and a big imagination.
The main panoramic living area in this minimalistic architectural wonder feels like the physical analogue of these wood dragon aptitudes. Set on the beaches of Phuket’s gorgeous Patong Bay, the triangular geometry symbolically invokes stability and strength, while the timber floors and ceilings pay homage to this year’s element in the most literal way.
Starting Dialogues, Sparking Joy
Angeles Guerrero – Seville Sotheby’s International Realty
Those affiliated with the sign of the dragon are said to be exceptional entertainers. They seek company, and tend to be effervescent, enthusiastic, and charming—and this year, these qualities are further enhanced by the sense of positivity typified by the element of wood.
Angeles Guerrero – Seville Sotheby’s International Realty
Such exuberance and ebullience come alive in the lush gardens and spacious halls of this beachfront mansion on Marbella’s Golden Mile. There’s no better place to host a lively salon than in its art-filled parlors—and with the acclaimed Marbella Club Hotel right next door, there will always be a lively gaggle of guests. In the year of the wood dragon, the tropical greenery that surrounds this property feels particularly on-theme.
Always a Fierce Force of Nature
Lynn Malone and Barbara Wolveridge – Queensland Sotheby’s International Realty
Finally, those born under the dragon’s influence are known for their unshakeable independence. Considering how powerful and capable dragons are, those who have the good fortune of being governed by this zodiac animal can place their faith in their own capabilities and become fully self-reliant.
Lynn Malone and Barbara Wolveridge – Queensland Sotheby’s International Realty
Indeed, self-sufficiency is the defining feature of this paragon of sustainable design. Off-grid and carbon neutral, this residence takes renewable, restorative living to a whole new level with interconnected indoor-outdoor spaces that sit at the junction of two UNESCO World Heritage sites—the Great Barrier Reef before it, and the Daintree Rainforest behind it.
These five properties reach across regions and cultures, just like the celebration of Lunar New Year and the iconic zodiac animals of the lunisolar calendar. But of course, none are as iconic as the dragon—and that’s why 2024 promises to be a year full of optimism and opportunity.
Looking for an elegant, tangible connection to the past? Explore the timeless charm of these four historic homes.
