Every age in history has seen itself as “modern” and “contemporary,” defining its spirit through art and architecture. Today, as our world continues to evolve, we express our own age through masterpieces of modern and contemporary art at Frieze London, one of the globe’s most influential art fairs. The event is currently underway in The Regent’s Park, nestled in the heart of the British capital, and runs until October 15. As Frieze London celebrates its 20th anniversary, it brings forth a remarkable collection of 21st-century artworks from over 1,000 leading and emerging artists hailing from more than 160 galleries across 46 countries. Simultaneously, Frieze Masters showcases pre-2000 artworks and shines a special light on women artists. Inspired by this magnificent event, Luxury Defined takes you on a journey to explore three exquisite examples of contemporary residential architecture, where luxury, comfort, and elegant design meet the modern world.
Residence at The Great Portland, London
Situated in the heart of London’s W1, The Great Portland is a luxurious residential and retail development designed by architect Simon Bowden. Its striking limestone façade is adorned with bronze-framed lantern bay windows and cast aluminum balustrades inspired by Japanese porcelain.On the fifth floor of this impressive building, a sleek 926-square-foot apartment offers an open-concept layout with two bedrooms, two bathrooms, an integrated living and dining space, and a minimalist kitchen featuring marble finishes and top-of-the-line appliances. Oak floors and floor-to-ceiling bay windows add elegance, providing both light and views of Great Portland Street. The Great Portland Street underground station is just steps away.
1856 N Mohawk Street, Chicago, Illinois
Located in Chicago’s upscale Lincoln Park neighborhood, this timeless modernist home is a masterpiece of mid-century architecture designed by Dirk Lohan, the grandson and apprentice of the legendary architect Ludwig Mies van der Rohe. Behind a striking façade of glass, wood, and stone, this 8,700-square-foot house boasts five bedrooms, four full bathrooms, and two partial baths.The main highlights of this stunning residence include a four-story Miesian floating staircase leading to a 1,100-square-foot roof deck, a sleek white kitchen with premium appliances, an expansive primary suite with a Carrara marble bathroom, and a well-equipped gym. The house features infrastructure upgrades, including smart technology, Lutron lighting, and a four-story elevator, while a four-car heated garage with EV charging stations provides convenience and sustainability.
Amarra Residence, Austin, Texas
Designed by the late Austin modernist architect Dick Clark, this contemporary hilltop home is one of the exclusive Amarra Villas at Barton Creek, a resort community nestled just ten miles from downtown Austin. The design emphasizes the seamless connection between indoor and outdoor spaces with locally sourced limestone walls and expansive windows framing views of the courtyard and Texas Hill Country.This 7,660-square-foot residence boasts five bedrooms, six-and-a-half bathrooms, a spacious great room, an office, and a chef’s dream kitchen. The central highlight is a private, fully enclosed patio with a lap pool, spa, summer kitchen, and sunken seating area with a fire pit. Downstairs, a versatile bonus room can serve as a game room, wellness suite, fitness studio, or guest quarters, offering glimpses of the beautiful Hill Country.
These three exemplars of contemporary residential architecture echo the spirit of our age, where luxury, comfort, and elegant design converge with the modern world. Just as Frieze London and Frieze Masters celebrate the art and creativity of our era, these homes showcase the vision of contemporary architects. If you have questions or want to explore more about these modern masterpieces or Frieze London, feel free to reach out. We’re here to guide you on your journey through the art and architecture of our age.
Courtesy of Lucy Carsen. Listings provided by Carter Jonas, Emily Wong, & Dara Allen.
