Whether elegantly ornamental or crisp, clean, and contemporary, these striking curvaceous stairways are fascinating focal points, as thoughtfully designed as the homes they anchor.
Woolworth Tower Pavilion Residence
New York, New York | Stan Ponte, Joshua Judge & Tate Kelly, Sotheby’s International Realty – East Side Manhattan Brokerage
Occupying the entire 29th floor of the iconic landmarked Woolworth Tower, this rarefied condominium home welcomes both luxurious day-to-day living and the grandest of entertaining. Spanning an impressive 6,711 square feet, it exemplifies impeccable attention to detail and a perfect sense of proportion, with soaring 22-foot ceilings, five bedrooms, a skylit professional-caliber kitchen, and great room with a spiral staircase rising to an airy mezzanine. Plentiful windows and two terraces capture enviable views of the Manhattan skyline.
Grand Greenwich Getaway
Greenwich, Connecticut | Tracey Koorbusch, Sotheby’s International Realty – Greenwich Brokerage
Minutes from town, this grand 7,570-square-foot residence blends modern sophistication and casual comfort. The impressive elegance begins in the triple-height foyer, where a sweeping staircase with a dramatic decorative railing connects all three levels. Primary living and entertaining spaces are linked in an open flow, and the walk-out ground level includes a media, game, and recreation room with space for a bar. A second-floor balcony and two covered porches overlook the lush grounds.
Memorial-Area Manor
Houston, Texas | Walter Bering, Martha Turner Sotheby’s International Realty – Central Houston Brokerage
On a 2.13-acre wooded lot at the end of a cul-de-sac in a prestigious Houston location, this majestic neoclassical home features grand interiors filled with light and magnificent architectural detail. The main level—with its formal living and dining rooms, bar, and kitchen—is linked with the upper-level private quarters by a free-standing circular staircase. The lower level offers a climate-controlled wine cellar and a gym or recreation room. Alluring outdoor spaces include a summer kitchen, a pool and spa, and a cabana.
Maison à l’Orange
St. Helena, California | Ginger Martin, Sotheby’s International Realty – Wine Country – East Napa Street Brokerage
Recalling a getaway in the French countryside, this two-bedroom pied-à-terre enjoys a desirable location in St Helena. Beyond a stalwart façade of local stone are an open living space with a soaring ceiling and a wood-burning fireplace, a restful guest bedroom secluded behind French doors, and at the top of a graceful spiraling staircase, a lofty master retreat. Alfresco living, dining, and entertaining amid orange and walnut trees and manicured hedges is a delight. The fenced property also includes a freestanding art studio.
New Luxury on Nob Hill
San Francisco, California | Mary Lou Castellanos, Sotheby’s International Realty – San Francisco Brokerage
A remarkable re-creation of a Nob Hill residence dating to the early 20th century, this four-level, four-bedroom masterwork epitomizes chic yet comfortable contemporary style, boasting the highest-quality finishes and fixtures as well as every technological feature expected in a home of this caliber and in this city. An elevator conveniently connects each of the home’s four levels, as does its dramatic heart, a stunning sculptural staircase that begins its upward spiral in the foyer.
Classical Meets Contemporary
Greenwich, Connecticut | Steve Archino, Sotheby’s International Realty – Greenwich Brokerage
Impeccably renovated, this Georgian estate on a private guard-gated road combines classical symmetry with sleek, sophisticated contemporary style. Highlights include formal living and dining rooms, a study, a chef’s kitchen, a ground-floor master suite, a recreation room, a gym and sauna, and a wine room. An elegant sweeping staircase leads from the entrance hall to three spacious bedroom suites on the second floor. The four-acre grounds offer a refreshing swimming pool, a tennis court, and a pool and tennis house.
Cotswold-Inspired Cottage in Carmel
Carmel, California | Mike Jashinski, Sotheby’s International Realty – Carmel Rancho Brokerage
Inspired by the cottages of the Cotswold, this whimsical home at the southern end of Carmel Beach is surrounded by cypress trees and enjoys views of the Pebble Beach golf course, sunsets, and the ocean. From the main floor—where living spaces feature high pitched ceilings, a fireplace, and handsome wood floors—a staircase winds to the upper levels and two serene bedrooms, including a master suite with its own balcony, glass-enclosed shower, and jetted soaking tub.