As we step into 2026, there's a noticeable shift happening in how we think about our homes. After a year of uncertainty and rapid change, the design world is embracing something refreshingly simple: spaces that feel authentic, grounded, and deeply connected to the way we actually live.

Every December, we press play on the same beloved holiday films, partly for the stories, but just as much for the homes. The twinkling lights in the windows. The staircases made for grand entrances (or dramatic exits). The kitchens where chaos, comfort, and Christmas collide. Long after the final scene fades, it’s often these houses that stay with us, becoming as iconic as the characters themselves.

For decades, luxury real estate was measured in square footage, architectural grandeur, and designer finishes. The bigger the chandelier, the more impressive the home. But as we move into 2026, a fundamental shift is reshaping what affluent buyers value most—and here in Alexandria, we're witnessing this transformation firsthand.

This holiday season, skip the generic gifts and discover something truly special right here in Alexandria. From toys for the little ones to unique home décor and locally curated treasures, our city is full of gifts that feel personal and thoughtful.

Check out 2728 Boswell Ave – a property that represents a rare chance to own a thoughtfully designed, high-quality new construction home in Alexandria, crafted with the superior workmanship from esteemed local builder, Wakefield Homes.

2026 is gearing up to be a defining year for kitchen style. To help us break down what’s rising—and what’s fading—we spoke with Zack St. Clair of St. Clair Kitchens, who shared the top trends clients are requesting in the year ahead.

As Margaret O’Meara Douglas transitions into full-time sales, she’s opening up her playbook. Today’s Real Estate Terms 101 dives into the Home Sale Contingency—a powerful tool she’s recently used to guide buyers through selling and purchasing with confidence.

Built in 1789 by Lawrence Hooff Sr., this distinguished brick townhouse marries historic prestige with modern comfort. Once home to Bushrod Washington, nephew of George Washington and Supreme Court Justice, the residence has welcomed presidents from George Washington to Bill Clinton, and was later owned by a former White House Social Secretary.

Inspired by her great-grandmother, Mimi Lowery, and her father, Maggie has created a store where classic charm meets personality — a place that’s as much about creativity and connection as it is about décor, with something for everyone to discover and adore.

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time to honor strength, resilience, and hope. At Sotheby’s, pink isn’t just a color; it’s a statement of style, history, and rarity. From fashion to fine art to jewels, Sotheby’s has showcased an array of pink treasures, each with its own story.

Discover one of Old Town’s most extraordinary residences, the only home in the city featuring an elevator to all four levels, a private fenced yard with a jetted pool, and a separate apartment above a two-car detached garage. Completed in 2019, every detail reflects thoughtful design, timeless craftsmanship, and contemporary luxury.

For decades, Alexandria’s waterfront has been defined in part by the towering stacks of the Potomac River Generating Station in Old Town North. Hilco Redevelopment has unveiled plans to replace the former coal-fired power plant with a mixed-use community that emphasizes walkability, sustainability, and cultural vibrancy.

The Patterson Group of TTR Sotheby’s International Realty invites you to an unforgettable evening at Oysters & Elegance. Celebrate the unveiling of 1814 Edgehill Dr., a newly reimagined Belle Haven residence offering sweeping river views and refined modern living.

Located along a picturesque, tree-lined street in the highly sought-after southeast quadrant of Historic Old Town, this semi-detached 1850s residence combines timeless charm with thoughtful updates. A private, gated entry opens to a brick terrace framed by mature trees, setting the tone for the home’s inviting outdoor living spaces.

Browse our two newest listings — a townhome on Duke Street in the heart of historic Old Town, full of timeless charm and a waterfront property on Queen Street offering unmatched views and relaxed luxury.

Sotheby’s International Realty recently explored how the personality of each of the “Big Four” fashion capitals is reflected not only in style but also in architecture and design. From Parisian chic to New York edge, these extraordinary residences capture the same essence that makes each city an icon of fashion.

Tucked away on a quiet cul-de-sac, 9923 Bagpipe Court in Bristow offers over 5,000 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space. From hardwood floors and a gourmet kitchen to a sunroom retreat and cozy family room fireplace, this residence blends elegance with everyday comfort.

Set on one of the most desirable streets in Alexandria’s sought-after Villamay neighborhood, 1214 Belle Vista Drive is a timeless all-brick home that perfectly blends classic charm with modern updates. With over 3,300 square feet of finished living space on a flat, .35-acre lot, this residence offers both comfort and convenience just minutes from the Potomac River, scenic parks, and historic Old Town.

As the seasons change, many homeowners begin to consider listing their home. If selling is on your horizon, one of the most cost-effective and impactful improvements you can make is giving your walls a fresh coat of paint.  

To live the Life of a Showgirl, a home must match that same level of drama, refinement, and spectacle. These Sotheby’s listings are more than luxury residences—they are architectural stages for a life of elegance, designed to impress, inspire, and entertain.