I guess by definition Milan = sophistication but this apartment designed by Quincoces-Drago & Partners is definitely fitting right in and maybe even raising the bar. I am head over heels for that kitchen, as it looks like it’s just furniture rather than having a typical functional kitchen appearance. And any designer who uses Uchiwa III wall lamps (Japanese fan) by Ingo Maurer is going to capture my attention. Photos: Alberto Strada.

Not sure you can handle the daunting task of owning a castle? How about an apartment in one? (I know this is more of a manor house than a castle but it might as well be a castle given the photo above). You get the best of both worlds – living in something so gloriously historic and expansive on the outside but having a bit more manageable space on the inside. And unlike most castle/apartment conversions I’ve seen this one has SO MUCH incredible original details. Located in West Sussex, England, this has 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 reception rooms, communal gardens of 6.5 acres with tennis court. This looks like it is about to be sold, for £950,000 via Jackson-Stops.

If Alfredo Parades‘ Long Island mansion wasn’t fabulous enough, prepare yourself! This is his Shelter Island weekend house and it is everything you could want for chilling out on weekends. It started off as a small 1870s Victorian cottage and was added on to over the years. Alfredo took on the restoration work in an attempt to enhance it’s original features and the historic aesthetic. It is bright and airy, with beach vibes and tons of vintage touches that make it casual and inviting. Photos: Bjorn Wallander.

The Locust Valley, Long Island home of designer Alfredo Paredes is an absolute beauty. Built in 1929 and filled with original architecture, it has Ralph Lauren vibes (he was Chief Creative Officer for Ralph Lauren Home for 33 years) and despite being a mansion, is as cozy as can be. That great room with wood-clad barrel vaulted ceiling is soooo dreamy. Timeless with a touch of elegance alongside a touch of ranch. Photos: Noe DeWitt.

Cottage living in the country but make it elevated. This stunning home in Hailburton, Ontario is soooo beautiful and despite my love of colour, it is truly relaxing and easy on the eyes with all of the neutral tones and woods used throughout. As a getaway from the craziness of the city it is the perfect palette. So many wonderful textures too – stone walls in the living room and kitchen, raffia walls and seagrass pendants in the dining room, white oak walls and ceilings… Designed by Allison Willson. Photos: Patrick Billier