There was a time when “entertaining at home” meant setting a table and opening a bottle of wine. Today’s discerning homeowners expect their living spaces to transition seamlessly from sanctuary to stage, with every detail curated for comfort, style, and sophisticated social connection. Across Premier Sotheby’s International Realty’s markets, our global advisors are witnessing an evolution in how people gather.
66 N Deerhaven Lane, Asheville, NC 28803 | Listed by Alec Cantley
Deerhaven Gardens offers an unparalleled entertaining experience with two gourmet kitchens, a wine cellar, a full hibachi grill, and an expansive outdoor kitchen and bar, perfectly appointed for hosting at any scale. A 50-foot infinity-edge pool and spa elevate the resort-like ambiance, set against a backdrop of panoramic mountain views and award-winning gardens.
One of the most sought-after architectural expressions in luxury homes is the integration of indoor and outdoor living. As Alec Cantley, global advisor with Premier Sotheby's International Realty's Asheville office, notes. “Accordion doors, large sliding doors, and nano doors that effortlessly bring the outdoor living space inside are such an important design decision.” These features dissolve the boundaries between the interior and exterior, inviting natural light, open-air ambiance, and panoramic views to define the experience.
Design no longer stops at the door. “Outdoor areas are fully integrated extensions of the home, styled with the same sophistication as the interior,” says Tammra Granger, global real estate advisor with Premier Sotheby's International Realty's Charlotte office.
This exceptional Casey Key Gulf-to-bay residence is designed for elevated entertaining, featuring expansive open living areas, a dual-concept chef’s kitchen and seamless indoor-outdoor flow. A newly completed resort-style heated pool and spa, upper-level Gulf-view deck, and private dock with 13,000 lb. boat lift create the ultimate coastal retreat for refined gatherings and waterfront leisure.
Today’s luxury buyers are elevating exterior environments into full-service retreats. “Outdoor kitchens have gone from being a nice extra to a must-have,” explains Lisa Napolitano, global advisor with Premier Sotheby's International Realty's Venice office. “It’s no longer just a grill. Customers are adding pizza ovens, sinks, wine fridges, and even dishwashers, so the entire cooking experience happens outside. And of course, saltwater pools and spas are almost standard now, many with sun shelves, infinity edges, and beautiful lighting or fire features for ambiance.”
Designed for elevated entertaining, this remastered penthouse showcases expansive indoor-outdoor living with 1,950 square feet of wraparound terrace offering unobstructed views and seamless access from multiple rooms. A private poolside cabana, state-of-the-art appliances, surround sound, and sophisticated living and dining spaces create an exceptional setting for refined gatherings
While the desire to entertain transcends location, the amenities homeowners prioritize often reflect their environment. Such comforts can be distinctly regional, yet universally luxurious.
This meticulously crafted lakefront estate provides a private boat dock and expansive outdoor living spaces that cater to the waterfront lifestyle, offering residents and guests direct access to water activities and serene lake views.
In Florida’s prestigious waterfront communities, homes are designed to celebrate the coastal setting. “Contemporary luxury homes are embracing seamless outdoor spaces,” says Chad Going. “Waterfront properties in Florida emphasize features like boat docks, infinity pools, and expansive decks to take advantage of waterfront views and activities.”
Meanwhile, in Western North Carolina, there’s growing demand for elevated entertaining spaces that complement the natural landscape. “Virtually every buyer has a high emphasis on the desire for an amazing outdoor living space," shares Cantley. "Large views are highly desirable, but buyers also love the unique settings that only the woods of the Blue Ridge Mountains can provide.”
This scenic retreat features a covered stone patio, an inviting outdoor fireplace, and a creekside hot tub, all set against breathtaking multistate sunset views. With vaulted ceilings, expansive windows, and seamless indoor-outdoor flow, the home offers an idyllic setting for hosting in every season.
Granger adds, “Across the country, we see buyers seeking amenities/home features that reflect not only their personal lifestyles but also the rhythms and culture of the region they choose to call home. In the North Carolina High Country, that culture is deeply rooted in the outdoors. That’s why we’re seeing strong demand for features like large frameless windows, covered decks for year-round enjoyment, and thoughtfully placed seating areas by creeks or fire pits. Buyers are drawn to homes that allow them to hear the sound of rushing water, feel the cool mountain breeze, and watch the sunset over a ridgeline, all without leaving their property.”
Ultimately, helping homeowners design for how they entertain is as personalized as the properties themselves. “At the end of the day, the way we entertain — and the way we design for it — does depend on where we live,” reflects Napolitano. “And helping bring that vision to life is one of the most rewarding parts of being a global real estate advisor with Premier Sotheby’s.”
