No matter how many bookshelves a home may have, there’s something special about a dedicated library. Who hasn’t dreamt of curating their own shelves, dusting off old favorites and getting lost for countless hours between the pages? The popularity of the personal library as a luxury home feature seems to have increased over the past few years, perhaps as a reaction to the pervasive presence of digital consumption. In the online era, a room of books is a regular reminder to reconnect with the pleasure of reading, to surround yourself in words with personal meaning, and to define a space that’s screen-free.

There aren’t many artists who encapsulate the essence of art deco as magnificently as Tamara de Lempicka—and this fall, the Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco are presenting her first major US retrospective. Renowned for vibrant, captivating portraits of the wealthy and famous, the Polish-born painter’s highly stylized works helped define the art deco movement, which flourished throughout the 1920s and early 1930s.

With art fairs such as Frieze London, Paris+ par Art Basel, Art Toronto and The Art Show (ADAA) taking place this October, many homeowners will be adding to, or building, their collections. Though a white box gallery may be art’s stereotypical display, replicating that environment once a beloved work goes to a buyer’s home isn’t always possible—or necessary. A modern, pared-back room can certainly center attention toward paintings, sculptures, or art installations, but so too can the juxtaposition of a historic house’s rich material palette or a traditional home’s delicate details. What’s most important to a home with a great art collection is intentional design.

From an island escape in French Polynesia to a remarkable equestrian estate in Florida, these six properties prove that a retreating to a summer rental can be as luxurious and stylish as staying home.

It may be true that minimalism will always be in vogue — after all, it’s the very definition of a safe choice. But today, many luxury designers and architects are no longer interested in merely playing it safe, and maximalism has become the style du jour.

In legendary locales from Easthampton to Southern California, these estates were designed to take advantage of summer’s long, lovely days and nights, effortlessly blending indoor comforts and conveniences with easy access to enchanting outdoor spaces.

Simultaneously fabulous and functional, these quiet, contemplative home offices are private retreats designed to increase productivity and inspire new ideas.

In addition to a sturdy, stately presence and enduring style, brick provides these homes—from California to Connecticut—with other appealing qualities, including environmental friendliness, energy efficiency, and easy maintenance.

Jade Beach Penthouse is a double-story sanctuary offering sweeping views of the ocean and city skyline. The expansive floor plan features five bedrooms and a sophisticated main living area adorned with 21-foot ceilings and floor-to-ceiling windows.

These stylish compounds—from California to Connecticut—are ideal private retreats perfect for swimming, stargazing, sports, or simply relaxing indoors and out.