Elite real estate continues to be a resilient investment globally. Experts note steady growth in the premium segment driven by economic recovery, urbanization, and advancements in construction technology. Strategic regions worldwide remain particularly attractive, evidenced by the rising sales of luxury properties in Southeast Asian capitals and major U.S. cities. Rental income is a common goal for purchasing luxury properties, making sales and rental markets closely intertwined. This blog showcases rental sector highlights from around the world.
Odeon Tower, Monaco
The Odeon Tower residential skyscraper is located in the Principality of Monaco. Covering an area of about 2 km2, this region along the Ligurian Sea coastline has long been favored by rich individuals and multi-billionaires from around the world, thanks in part to its comfortable and healthful climate. As a result, real estate prices in Monaco far surpass those in other regions and are virtually immune to external influences.
The 50-story Odeon Tower, standing 170 meters tall, is the tallest building in the principality. It houses 60 apartments and a unique five-level penthouse, which was long considered the most expensive in the world. The sense of lightness and spaciousness in the residences is achieved through panoramic glazing and spacious terraces. The interiors feature natural materials and exclusive furniture. Residents and tenants have access to:
- a business center and a private cinema;
- a spa and a beauty salon;
- a gym and a billiard room;
- a hammam and a swimming pool.
The on-site restaurant serves French and Italian cuisine, while the building’s lobby is adorned with works by contemporary European sculptors. Shortly after its opening, the Odeon Tower became one of the symbols of modern architecture in Monaco.
The Henderson, Hong Kong
Central district is an area in Hong Kong that holds the global record for the highest office rental prices. Within this district, the 36-story Henderson skyscraper is among the leaders in this category. The metropolis itself is a global hub for investment, trade, logistics, and banking.
The daring Henderson project, resembling a flower bud of the bauhinia—the symbol of Hong Kong—was designed by renowned architect Patrik Schumacher, known for his innovative solutions. The wavy mirrored façade of the 190-meter building has revitalized the architectural landscape of the city's business center.
The skyscraper is equipped with a smart home system, and its multilayered glass panels were manufactured in Germany using specialized technology. All floors feature open layouts, and the top floor houses a ballroom with a glass ceiling and a decorative garden. Amenities for employees include a restaurant, café, gym, conference rooms, and multi-level parking.
Among the office tenants are the auction house Christie's, Swiss watch brand Audemars Piguet, several foreign investment firms, and exhibition galleries. The Henderson symbolizes the process of shaping the future and has garnered worldwide acclaim for its architecture. It has won numerous awards, including the Platinum category under WELL building standards and leadership in eco-friendly and energy-efficient design under LEED certification.
Salesforce Tower, San Franciso
San Francisco, California, along with New York, shares the top spot for the highest cost of living and real estate in the United States. This western metropolis hosts numerous offices of globally renowned companies, known for attracting and rewarding bright minds and skilled professionals. The 61-story Salesforce Tower is situated on one of America’s most expensive streets, right in the business center of California’s second-largest city.
Designed by Argentine-American architect César Pelli, the Salesforce Tower incorporates contemporary features of safety, protection, and sustainability. At 370 meters, it is the tallest building in San Francisco and one of the tallest on the West Coast.
At the building’s opening in January 2018, architectural critic John King described it as "massive yet restrained, imposing yet refined." The Salesforce Tower is shaped like a glass obelisk framed by a lattice of metal ribs stretching from the base to the roof. The top floor serves as an observation deck and a relaxation area for employees and guests, and its 11,000 LEDs display animations across the skyline every evening.
The primary tenant of the skyscraper is Salesforce, a company specializing in cloud-based software. The building has won numerous architectural awards, including “Best Tall Building of 2020.”
Unic, Paris
The residential complex Unic is located in the northwest of central Paris, in a district popular among locals. The 50-meter building, designed by the development company MAD Architects, was once personally introduced by the mayor of the French capital. The 13-story Unic, with its extraordinary wave-like form, stands out even in a city rich in architectural history. It defies traditional design principles and sets a new standard for future residential developments. The building moves away from monotonous rectangular forms, often overused in urban architecture. Its semicircular terraces feature dynamic contours, creating a visual transition from interior spaces to the natural surroundings of the complex.
The pristine white façade is adorned with panoramic windows offering breathtaking views of the Eiffel Tower and the iconic Champs-Élysées. Upon request, a subcontracted architectural studio worked on customized designs for apartment owners. High-quality natural materials, warm pastel tones, and kitchen equipment from renowned global brands were used in the interior finishes.
The building features:
- Retail spaces
- A kindergarten
- A restaurant
- A fitness center
- Multi-level parking
Within a few minutes’ walk are several art galleries and cultural venues. A professional and courteous concierge service, along with convenient access to transportation, enhances Unic’s appeal and comfort.
It’s worth noting that romantic Paris remains a world leader in attracting foreign tourists and is highly desirable for wealthy expatriates.
Ellington Beach House, Dubai
The upscale 7-story residential complex Ellington Beach House is situated on the iconic Palm Jumeirah Island in Dubai. The project was developed by Ellington Properties, a company renowned for its luxury properties across the Emirates. Ellington Beach House is an exclusive club-style building comprising 123 residences, featuring premium finishes, meticulously designed interiors, and stunning views of the Arabian Gulf and the glittering cityscape.
Investors enjoy access to world-class amenities, including:
- A business and yacht club
- Spa and hydrotherapy facilities
- A landscaped pool and park
- Luxury boutiques and a restaurant
- A fitness center and yoga studio
- A children’s playground and parking
- Trendy entertainment venues
- Impeccable catering and concierge services
The luxurious apartments and penthouses are ideal for those who value a serene, relaxed lifestyle by the sea. The complex is perfect for sea and water sports enthusiasts, as it features a private beach just meters away.
The exclusivity of the building is highlighted by the limited number of residences on Palm Jumeirah, the man-made, palm-shaped island recognized as a modern wonder of the world.
Shiodome City Center, Tokyo
Tokyo, one of the largest and most technologically advanced cities in the world, is also known for its high real estate prices. These are partly influenced by overpopulation and the limited land area of the country. The 43-story Shiodome City Center is an iconic office skyscraper located in Tokyo's bustling central district.
The tower is home to renowned corporations such as Fujitsu, a leading electronics and IT technology company, and All Nippon Airways, Japan's largest airline. Standing at a height of 216 meters, the building was designed by the talented American-Irish architect Kevin Roche. From an urban design perspective, the project presented significant challenges due to its integration with an extensive road network and the historical depot of Japan's first railway line, which had to remain prominent after the skyscraper's construction. Additionally, given Tokyo's heightened seismic activity, the building required a specialized foundation to absorb ground vibrations.
The lower floors of the center host bank branches, bookstores, and cafes, while the top floor features a premium restaurant offering a panoramic view of Japan's capital. The tower also provides tenants with amenities such as a fitness center, library, conference hall, and several relaxation rooms—essential for residents of the Land of the Rising Sun.
Today, the Shiodome area, where the skyscraper is located, is renowned for its gleaming towers, diverse dining options, and modern urban planning, featuring multi-level traffic systems that separate pedestrians and vehicles.
Shiodome City Center on the map
Central Park Tower, New York
The luxurious residential complex Central Park Tower, standing at 472 meters, is located in the heart of Manhattan, adjacent to the iconic Central Park. This area is one of the most expensive and prestigious in the world, attracting millions of tourists annually. Just three years ago, this 98-story skyscraper held the title of the tallest residential building in the world. Its design was conceived by the architectural firm led by Adrian Smith, the creator of the world's tallest structure to date, Burj Khalifa.
The skyscraper's structure is made of reinforced concrete and steel, with a wind-resistant system on the upper floors featuring two massive tuned mass dampers for stability. The interiors are outfitted with handcrafted furniture made from fine woods, white oak flooring, and appliances from leading global brands. With thoughtful floor plans and panoramic windows, residents can enjoy unparalleled views of the cityscape.
Central Park Tower includes amenities such as a department store, private club, underground parking, a cinema, and the tallest ballroom in New York City. Within a few miles of the complex, there are numerous shops, restaurants, cultural institutions, and nightlife venues. Landmarks such as the Museum of Modern Art, Carnegie Hall, the Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts, and Radio City Music Hall are just a short walk away.
The Oval, Limassol
One of the highlights of the seafront in Cyprus' business capital is the 16-story office center, The Oval, designed and brought to life by one of the country’s leading developers, Cybarco. Standing at 75 meters, it is one of the first high-rise structures in Limassol, with its unique shape inspired by a large pebble shaped by centuries of sea water. The building is constructed using the most advanced technologies and materials, featuring an exterior made up of over 10,000 aluminum panels.
All offices in The Oval are positioned to provide maximum sea views while ensuring ample natural light. The flexible floor plans allow tenants to optimize their leased spaces. Amenities for office workers include a conference hall, fitness center, café, underground parking, and a landscaped park surrounding the building. Within walking distance, there are several restaurants, shops, and the Mediterranean promenade.
The Oval is the first high-rise building in Cyprus to achieve an “A” energy efficiency certification, incorporating geothermal energy in its design.
Available real estate options for sale in The Oval
The Marq on Paterson Hill, Singapore
Singapore is often referred to as a “closed club for the wealthy and successful.” This reputation is partly reflected in the high cost of goods, services, and, undoubtedly, real estate in this small but highly developed nation. The Marq on Paterson Hill, a modern residential complex, is located in the southern part of the city, just a few blocks from the Singapore Strait. Designed to meet the growing demand for luxury real estate among both foreign investors and local residents, it is considered one of the most opulent and ambitious projects in Singapore.
Developed by SC Global, a local company specializing in premium properties, The Marq comprises 66 apartments housed in two 24-story towers of distinctive architecture.
The buildings incorporate energy-saving technologies, eco-friendly materials, and minimal harmful emissions. Amenities available to residents and guests include a designer bungalow with a fireplace, a private swimming pool, a gym, jacuzzi, a yoga garden, and a professional concierge service. Within walking distance are trendy shops, fitness centers, spas, and several prestigious schools, including international institutions.
The Marq seamlessly integrates into the urban landscape of one of the world’s most rapidly developing metropolises.
The Marq on Paterson Hill on the map
The Gherkin, London
The 180-meter office skyscraper The Gherkin is located in the financial district of London's City and has become one of the city's modern architectural landmarks due to its distinctive design. The unusual 41-story skyscraper, colloquially known as the "Cucumber" because of the greenish tint of its façade, was designed by the renowned English architect Norman Foster. Thanks to its shape, the building allows for maximum natural light and provides ventilation for the rooms, resulting in significant energy savings. The diameter of the skyscraper at the base is 48 meters, and the area of its external glazing is 24,000 m², equivalent to five football fields. In addition, the construction required 35 km of steel roll.
The design of the office center, which has no corners, was tested in an aerodynamic tunnel, confirming the accuracy of the architect's calculations. On the top floor, there is a bar and an observation deck offering a panoramic view of the British capital. The 38th and 39th floors are home to a restaurant network for office employees. Since its completion, the Gherkin has received several architectural awards, including the Emporis Skyscraper Award for the world's best skyscraper.
30 St Mary Axe (The Gherkin) on the map
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