£3.99 | ESP €2.99
Sponsored by
Billions Luxury Portal
IVING
REAL ESTATE | SUPER & MEGA YACHTS | SUPER CARS | LUXURY TRAVEL
FABULOUS Billions Luxury Portal FEMALES
REAL ESTATE | SUPER & MEGA YACHTS | SUPER CARS | LUXURY TRAVEL
The most empowering and inspirational women of our time
TINSELTOWN TIPPLES
Hard hitters Matthew McConaughey and the Rock launch new spirit brands
WORK FROM PARADISE
with these fabulous “WORK-STAYTION” packages
Who has what it takes to step into
Daniel Craig’s SHOES?
1
Discover some of the world’s most exclusive real estate available for sale or rent including celebrity owned properties.
www.billionsluxuryportal.com Browse our news of
Offering travel inspirations with
the latest watches
news on luxury holiday homes,
and jewels released
exclusive resorts and new hotel
to market or discover
openings from around the world.
priceless pieces being auctioned.
2 LUXURY LIVING
Billons Luxury Portal represents a window into the world of luxury presenting informative and interesting articles on the world’s most luxurious products and services and a providing a global market place for: • Luxury Cars • Superyachts for sale or charter • International luxury real estate for sale • Private Jets for sale or charter • Helicopters for sale • Luxury real estate for rental • Designer watches & jewels Billions Luxury Portal provides you with a unique opportunity to promote your goods and services to our readers composed of global high-net worth individuals. With over 25,000 daily unique impressions across thousands of pages our content gets yours message heard.
Billions Luxury Portal REAL ESTATE | SUPER & MEGA YACHTS | SUPER CARS | LUXURY TRAVEL
connecting you to the world of luxury Billions is a dynamic online luxury portal that provides an all-encompassing guide to an affluent lifestyle including informative and interesting articles on the world’s most luxurious products and services from some of the most exclusive brands in the world. Billons Luxury Portal connects to all social media platforms, engaging and converting your message to attract more followers, impressions and conversions. To advertise with us contact info@billionsluxuryportal.com
3
4 LUXURY LIVING
www. rolex.com 5
6 LUXURY LIVING
7
8 LUXURY LIVING
IVING u
CONTENTS u
u FASHION The Licensing King - Pierre Cardin X Marks the Spot - Tiffany & Co JLo Beauty Collection - Jennifer Lopez Greek Warrior Collection - Kelly Rowland
26
14
14 21 26 48
u TRAVEL
Work-Stay-Play - Sun Resorts, Mauritius Barefoot Luxury - Soneva Fushi, Maldives Travel News Crystal Endeavor - Summer 2021
76 81 88 100
u LIVING Inspirational Women of the Last 100 Years 120 Who will be the next Mr Bond? 134 International Powerhouse - London 142 Indulge Yourself 159
81
u Food & Drink
100 120
Wild Turkey Longbranch - Matt McConaughey 180 Craft Irish Whiskey - Faberge 186 Tequila on the Rock - Dwayne Johnson 190 Gourmet News 196
u POWER The Bugatti Bolide - Extreme Hyper Sports Car Emir - Concept Green Luxury Yacht Maserati’s New MC20 Yachting News
222 228 233 284
180
u PROPERTY
James Bond Inspired Residence - Mayfair 302 Modern Butler - Robert Gertz & Mario Seiler 322 2021 - The Rise of Montenegro 334
222 302
Designed by CLEARVISION MARKETING SL www.billionsluxuryportal.com | info@billionsluxuryportal.com
The Luxury Living Magazine takes no responsibility for claims made in advertising or advertorial in this magazine. No part of Luxury Living Magazine may be reproduced or copied in any way without prior written consent. © ClearVision Marketing SL Deposito Legal Nº CA 389-2017 ISSN Nº 2529-9387
BAHAMAS CAPE TOWN DUBAI G R E AT BA R R I E R R E E F LOS CABOS MALDIVES MAURITIUS MONTENEGRO SANYA
oneandonlyresorts.com
12 LUXURY LIVING
IVING
FASHION There are numerous brands of luxury clothing spread throughout the entire world that influence the fashion industry and it is they who dictate the trends you see sashaying along the high streets and catwalks. Luxury Living Magazine goes behind the scenes to bring you not just fashion reviews but some of the fashion world’s best kept secrets.
13
LUXURY LIVING FASHION u
14 LUXURY LIVING
THE LICENSING
KING He was the legendary French-Italian designer, who broke the mould signing his name to everything from wrist watches to sardines, but in his heyday Pierre Cardin had an eye for great style
15
LUXURY LIVING FASHION u
In a career spanning more than three-quarters of a century, Pierre Cardin who sadly passed away
at the age of 98 is a signature that everyone consciously or even subconsciously will have seen. Just take a look around your local TK Maxx and you’ll see his fancy cursive signature emblazed
upon thousands of products from underpants to pens to saucepans to bed sheets but before he became consumed with selling his brand name to everything and anything Cardin was a pioneering avant garde designer who pioneered the sci-fi look of the 1960’s.
Born in 1922, Cardin began his career conventionally enough, in the storied salons of French
haute couture, as WW II came to an end he began work with the houses of Paquin and Schiaparelli working with Elsa Schiaparelli until he became head of Christian Dior’s tailleure atelier in 1947, where he took charge of creating Dior’s famous 1947 New Look collection, a style of dress intended to emphasize femininity in women’s clothing.
Three years later, in 1950, he established his own maison de couture – partly in a fit of pique at being questioned by police following the leaking of Dior’s new season designs to copyists. He
became an established business unveiling his first real collection in 1953 which was quickly
followed, with the 1954 launch of the celebrated “bubble” dress, which put his name on the map. As haute couture began to decline, ready-to-wear (‘prêt-à-porter’) soared with his first ready-to-
wear show in 1959 at Paris’ Printemps department store, where he combined the “mini” and the
“maxi” skirts of introducing a new hemline that had long pom-pom panels or fringes an act that got him temporarily kicked out of the Chambre Syndicale.
16 LUXURY LIVING
Inspired by space exploration Cardin visited NASA in 1970, where he tried on the original
spacesuit worn by the first human to set foot on the moon, this inspired Cardin to unveil
another new trend: “mod chic” a look that consisted of dresses with slits and batwing
sleeves with novel dimensions, and mixed
circular movement and gypsy skirts with structured tops. These dramatic, geometric silhouettes in new synthetic fabrics defied traditionally feminine styles of the era, bringing Space Age–chic to the public
It was during this time that Cardin saw the potential for licensing with the demand for
goods bearing a fashionable name becoming too lucrative to ignore, signing over 850
agreements in more than 140 countries on five
continents encompassing clothing accessories, furniture, household products and fragrances.
17
LUXURY LIVING FASHION u
“I wash with my own soap,” he once boasted. “I wear my own perfume, go to bed with my own sheets, have my own food products. I live on me.” Chocolates, pens, cigarettes, frying pans, alarm clocks and
cassette tapes, shoes, lingerie, blouses, neckwear, wallets, belts
soon followed. Not content with being the king of accessories Cardin bought the French restaurant Maxim’s, creating another branding empire. During his heyday Cardin had over 904
licensing deals but as the years past so too did demand his products were increasingly regarded as cheaply made and his
clothing, which, decades later, remained virtually unchanged from its 60s-era styles, felt outdated.
Today’s Cardin’s maverick business model is frowned upon, luxury houses no longer wish to have their names splashed across all manner of products to many Cardin’s nose-dive from
one of the most esteemed labels in fashion to a bargain-bin cast-off serves as a cautionary tale
18 LUXURY LIVING
19
20 LUXURY LIVING
LUXURY LIVING FASHION u
X
MARKS THE SPOT
For the first time since its launch 26 years ago, Tiffany & Co puts a bold new spin on its Atlas Collection
21
LUXURY LIVING FASHION u
Tiffany & Co. have unveiled Atlas X a bolder, more modern update to the iconic Atlas collection. Inspired by the Roman numerals on the iconic clock at the Tiffany Fifth Avenue flagship store and evolving the original Atlas designs that launched in 1995, the Atlas X collection is about making your mark in time. Powerful angles, clean lines and statement silhouettes are united with graphic simplicity. Crafted from 18k gold, sterling silver and pavé diamonds, the Roman numeral motif is a constant reminder to take time into your own hands and treasure what matters most.
22 LUXURY LIVING
There are three different motifs within Atlas X: Closed, X and Open. In the Closed and Open styles, knife edge profiles a code of Tiffany’s since the introduction of the Tiffany® Setting engagement ring in 1886 are pushed to a magnified scale for a bold, visual impact. Incised Roman numerals create sharp reflections and shadows that emphasize strong silhouettes. The X styles feature crisscrossing elements that reinforce the collection ethos in a modern way on earrings, pendants and more.
Within the range of Closed, Open and X styles, there are designs with diamond accents that sparkle with intense radiance. The Atlas X wide bangle and ring feature pavé diamonds that are set in a honeycomb pattern that maximizes the appearance of the stones and limits the presence of metal between them. Juxtaposing closed and open forms in a myriad of textures, robust angles and modern proportions, Atlas X offers numerous combinations for stacking, mixing and matching, and endless options for style versatility. To shop the collection visit Tiffany & Co.’s online store @ Tiffany & Co. 23
LUXURY LIVING FASHION u
IT’S FLAWLESS
JENNY FROM THE BLOCK! Jennifer Lopez Launches JLo Beauty a new luxury skincare collection
26 LUXURY LIVING
Jennifer Lopez has released JLo Beauty, a luxurious skincare collection infused with the expertise and experience of the iconic, ageless beauty and developed by Ascendant Beauty LLC, a joint venture between Guthy-Renker and BRX GR LLC. A global superstar, Jennifer Lopez is celebrated for her boundless talent, multihyphenate career, relentless work ethic, limitless approach to life and an un-dimmable beauty that only gets better with age. Unsurprisingly, the number one question she’s asked is her secret to flawless, timeless, radiant skin - the “JLo Glow” that’s become a hallmark. Like Jennifer herself, JLo Beauty is a force: powerhouse ingredients in rare combinations delivering uncompromising results for one groundbreaking authority in agelessness. Determined from the beginning to create luxe formulas that work as hard as she does, Jennifer carefully curated this game-changing, high-performance skincare collection. The collection she spent decades searching out. “I want people to know that this is deeply meaningful for me, that it’s personal. Now I want to share what I’ve learned with people everywhere. You want to know how I got my skin, how I look this way? This is how. This is how I live my life and it’s pretty simple.” - Jennifer Lopez, Founder, JLo Beauty It all stems from Jennifer’s long-time beauty philosophy based on The Five S’s: sleep, sunscreen, serum, supplements and sano. Inspired by the Spanish phrase, vivir sano, Jennifer has always committed to living a healthy, sane life. While Jennifer can’t bottle sleep or sano, her approach to life has informed an edited line-up of multitasking formulas that make self-care more simple - and a sensorial experience that serves as a daily reminder that beauty is an inside job. For her hero ingredient, Jennifer was inspired by an old family secret - olive oil - but challenged her formulators to create something new, innovative, and groundbreaking. Enter the proprietary JLo Beauty™ Olive Complex: a 4-part olive blend of squalane, fermented oil, extra virgin oil and leaf extract that delivers antioxidant protection, and is clinically shown to deliver all-day moisturization and that star glow. Conceived by Jennifer, grounded in science, the eight-piece collection reflects two years of product development and over 100 reformulations - until the result was finally worthy of her name. Starring Jennifer’s favorite glow serum and wonder cream, JLo Beauty improves the look and feel of skin - uncovering ageless beauty and limitless glow 27
LUXURY LIVING FASHION u
The JLo Beauty collection features eight luxury formulas: That Hit Single in a Gel Cream Cleanser ($38) Brighten. Refine. Soothe. That Jlo Glow in a Multitasking Serum ($79) Tighten. Brighten. Hydrate. That Limitless Glow in a Multitasking Mask ($18; $48 for three) Tighten. Plump. Radiate. That Blockbuster in a Nonstop Wonder Cream ($58) Hydrate. Plump. Nourish. That Big Screen in a Broad Spectrum Spf 30 Moisturizer ($54) Hydrate. Protect. Soothe. That Fresh Take in a Fierce Eye Cream ($48) Hydrate. Brighten. Smooth. That Star Filter in a Instant Complexion Booster ($39) Highlight. Bronze. Diffuse. That Inner Love in a Skin-Nutritious Dietary Supplement ($36) Nourish. Protect. Soothe.
JLo Beauty is now available from www.jlobeauty.com, www.sephora.com and Amazon
28 LUXURY LIVING
29
30 LUXURY LIVING
31
LUXURY LIVING FASHION u
32 LUXURY LIVING
BAGS OF
CASH! Whilst fashion isn’t an obvious choice when it comes to investment opportunities a luxury handbag can be more lucrative and secure than you’d think
33
LUXURY LIVING FASHION u
Why Hermès & Chanel Bags Are a Safe Investment According to Baghunter, the first thing to understand is what makes these bags so expensive in the first place. Back in the 1950s, before Grace Kelly was pictured with the bag that would later bear her name, a new Kelly bag from Hermès would have cost under $1,000. In fact, at the turn of the century when a Birkin bag became the star of the show on Sex in the City, it was possible to purchase a Birkin for around $4,000. Today, however, the most basic Kelly bag would set you back something in the region of $10,000 (10 times as much as it cost in the 1950s) and the same Birkin that featured on that Sex in the City episode retails close to the $12,000 mark (triple the value in only 15 years!). Of course, these are only entry level prices, before you add on exotic skins, custom hardware, and other personal touches which can bring the price upwards of $100,000. The same can be said for Chanel handbags, Coco Chanel’s iconic bag design, which launched in 1955 for a mere $220, have been steadily rising over the last 25 years. In 1990 a Classic Medium Flap Chanel bag was retailing for $1,150, however, today that exact same bag cannot be found for under $4,900. This huge increase in value is also reflected on the secondary market, in particular for limited edition or special order Chanel bags. Why? Quality of course each bag is made using exceptionally high-quality materials and of course a Chanel handbag never goes out of style!
Today, the handbag market attracts collectors, resellers, dealers and the ultra-wealthy but, when it comes to knowing what to ‘invest’ in can become something of a minefield, not all luxury handbags increase in value for those looking to invest in a luxury handbag collection here are a few rules to follow: 1.
Not all luxury handbags increase in value so if money is no object, stick to the trinity of luxury handbag brands: Hermes ( Birkin and Kelly ), Chanel (Chanel’s 2.55) and Louis Vuitton.
2.
Choose more classic or timeless styles. The demand for these handbags has already been well-established and won’t go anywhere but up!
3.
Choose high-demand colours, fluorescent, flamboyant and neon handbags are not to everyone’s liking so stick to neutral colours such as black, white, taupe, brown and traditional hardware like gold/silver/palladium.
4.
Last but not least if you’re shopping pre-owned designer handbags, be sure to shop at a reputable reseller with transparent policies and money-back authenticity guarantee.
35
36 LUXURY LIVING
37
LUXURY LIVING FASHION u
BOUCHERON’S NEW ART DECO-INSPIRED
HIGH-JEWELRY COLLECTION This year, creative director Claire Choisne delved into Maison Boucheron’s Art deco archives for the new haute joaillerie collection from Boucheron, “Histoire de style, Art Déco,” a genderless collection for both males and females.
Like a contemporary echo of the Roaring Twenties, Claire Choisne has retained the couture spirit with evocative jewels with extremely pure lines and sublimated with emeralds, composed among others of tie necklaces, ribbon bracelets and signet rings. Here we present the most beautiful pieces...
38 LUXURY LIVING
39
LUXURY LIVING FASHION u
CRAVATE ÉMERAUDE A piece of jewellery that looks just like a tie, a couture echo to those flapper years, when women asserted their style through details gleaned from the masculine wardrobe. The contrast between materials and colours is enhanced by the numerous ways this jewel can be worn: as a tie, a necklace, or even, after detaching its emerald heart, as a collar jewel, or a brooch.
RUBAN DIAMANTS More than a jewel, this white gold ribbon set with baguette and round diamonds is the ideal genderless accessory. With its chevron pattern, iconic of Art Déco, this graphic line can equally be a belt, a headband, a choker, or even two genderless bracelets. The options for wearing this jewel are endless, and left to the imagination.
40 LUXURY LIVING
NŒUD DIAMANTS If bow-ties have essentially served as baroque ornaments in the history of High Jewellery, here is a pure bow-tie, enhanced by the black and white contrast. Claire Choisne’s creative eye made it a brooch, a bow-tie or even a ring, faithful to Boucheron’s multi-wear tradition.
LISERÉ DIAMANTS This black edge expresses all the power of a simple black line: it only needs to border a 5.27 carat pear-shaped diamond drop to draw a radically modern piece. Just like a braid would highlight a garment, this piece is a Boucheron signature on a High Jewellery classic.
41
LUXURY LIVING FASHION u
PLASTRON ÉMERAUDES A necklace as an armor? This proud plastron borrows its opulence from that time when men wore High Jewellery as a sign of power and glory. In the tradition of Boucheron’s multi-wear, this spectacular necklace can transform into a choker and a bracelet, and its design is available as a graphic ring and two different pairs of earrings.
42 LUXURY LIVING
BOUTON ÉMERAUDE A ring like a button on a finger. Set with a cushion Muzo emerald of 7.43 carats, this ring is discreetly extravagant with its soft curve, the purity of the lines and the black, white and green colours dear to Claire Choisne. It is the finishing touch to a look, just like the perfect button on a garment.
43
LUXURY LIVING FASHION u
CHEVRON ÉMERAUDE A necklace so supple it follows every movement. Recalling the chevron pattern that was dear to Boucheron in the 1920s, Claire Choisne imagined a soft white gold chain paved with diamonds and ending with a 61.35 carat emerald drop. The boldness of this piece lies in its clasp turning into an ornament.
44 LUXURY LIVING
MONTBLANC 1858 GEOSPHERE The Montblanc 1858 Geosphere watch is one of the key icons of the 1858 line with its two distinctive domed turning hemisphere globes and world time complication. This year, Montblanc presented the 1858 Geosphere in grade 5 titanium combined with a glacier blue makeover contrasting with icy white design details. Inspired by the legendary professional Minerva watches from the 1920s and 1930s which were conceived for military use and exploration, reinterpreting these legendary timepieces, the Montblanc 1858 product line expresses the spirit of mountain exploration, embodying COL ÉMERAUDES the modern trend of returning to nature. Withisits pure design, this necklace follows the sharp line of a V-Neck and tells The Montblanc 1858 Geosphere dedicated to the world’s Seven Summit mountaineering challenge, the holy grail of mountaineering all titanium about thecase timeless modernity of Art and about Boucheron adventures. It comes in a 42usmm combined with blue andDéco contrasting icy the white design details, finding inspiration in signature. Its radical design dares to placecomplication 28 emeralds developed horizontally. the colours of glaciers. The timepiece features a manufacture world-time by the Montblanc watchmakers in Villeret: two domed globes, turning in opposite directions, that complete a full rotation in 24 hours. Price: $5,800. 45
LUXURY LIVING FASHION u
CHEVALIÈRE ÉMERAUDE A conqueror? This signet ring allies the powerful octagonal design of Place Vendôme to the precision of its cobblestones. Like wearing the Parisian coat of arms on one’s finger.
For more information or to shop the collection visit: www.boucheron.com
46 LUXURY LIVING
47
LUXURY LIVING FASHION u
Kelly Rowland Launches
Greek Warrior ColleCtion Inspired by the Confidence of Women
48 LUXURY LIVING
The new collection centres around three capsule collections each represented by a powerful and confident muse
49
LUXURY LIVING FASHION u
2021 has been an incredibly challenging year for everyone but the acts of bravery, strength and power women all around have shown (especially those home schooling!), inspired Kelly Rowlands second collection with Justfab drawing inspiration from Greek warrior goddesses. In a personal press release, Kelly wrote. “I grew up watching many amazing women, including my Mama T, who used her creativity to bring her dreams and ideas to life. I was always in awe of her and her creative mind, which seemed to have no bounds. As I got older, I was fortunate enough to travel the world and watch designers realize their dreams through fashion; I was mesmerized by what a magical job this is. Above all, it just looked like so much fun! I always imagined there would be a day where I got to look at a woman across the street and see her feeling beautiful and confident in my designs,” Kelly said.
“This year has been an exercise in strength, and I wanted to be able to share that armor with women everywhere — with you. You have all been warriors, blessing the world with your creativity and showing up with such grace. It was from your stories that this collection was born. You are my muses: the warriors, the creatives, the women who lead with grace. This collection is for you,” she continued.
50 LUXURY LIVING
Kelly decided to channel her inspiration in a very unique way partnering with three women to tell three different stories. Each woman represents a muse, and every shoe is named after a Greek goddess to echo power with each step the first collection revealed in March is represented by Nykhor Paul, a child of the South Sudanese civil war. It comes complete with a darker-colored selection of boots, sandals and heels, along with dresses, blazers and pants. April’s lighter-toned theme is centred in the Greek goddesses of creativity, and its selection of fun heels, sneakers, leather shorts and off-the-shoulder sweaters inspired by model and body love advocate Diana Veras. May’s capsule, featuring sandals, dresses and bodysuits in black, blue and white embodies grace, and is modeled after muse Pritika Swarup. To view the collection visit: www.justfab.com/shop/featured/kellywarrior 51
LUXURY LIVING FASHION u
LA PERLA UNVEILS 80S-INSPIRED
LINGERIE COLLECTION For the first time ever, the 66-year-old luxury lingerie label has unveiled a limited-edition collection inspired by the brand’s hero pieces from the 1980s
Luxury lingerie purveyor La Perla reimagines the ’80s with its latest collection, “Unlocked,” modelled by Iris Law ( Jude
Law’s daughter). A celebration of sensuality, femininity and the female form the13-piece capsule comes packed with a
range of bras and underwear crafted out of Italian Jacquard lace, there is also an Italian stretch silk slip dresses as well as a one shoulder dress in Italian stretch silk and satin.
Eighties inspired accessories also made part of the collection with Lycra and Italian Jacquard Lace headbands, playfully complimenting the body sculpting intimates evoking the boundary-pushing era For pricing and availability visit the online store: www.laperla.com
52 LUXURY LIVING
53
LUXURY LIVING FASHION u
A TIME HONORED
TRADITION Each and every year watch manufacturers celebrate the Chinese New Year with stunning and elaborate novelty designs. This year the lunar calendar celebrated the Ox which is associated with hard work, perseverance, loyalty, patience and serenity. Here we take a look at some of the best watches released
CHOPARD L.U.C XP URUSHI Each year since 2013, Chopard has dedicated a L.U.C Haute Horlogerie timepiece to the concurrent symbol in the Chinese zodiac. The concept is invariably developed on the basis of the ultra-thin L.U.C XP watches; graced with a dial featuring the Urushi technique of Maki-e combining lacquer and gold powder; always features a highly symbolic setting, and always produced as an 88-piece limited series. This year, Chopard adds a second watch to the collection, with an allegory of beliefs related to the Chinese zodiac and luck. It represents the first time that a watch displays Shí Chen, the traditional Chinese time system, as a complication. The 88-piece limited watch is housed in a 40mm case made from ethical 18-carat rose gold with a height of only 8.28mm. A classic black alligator strap gives this piece an elegant style, with great contrast between the gold and black elements. Inside is the in-house automatic calibre L.U.C 96.29-L, an exclusive variant of the well-known ultra-thin Calibre 96 with micro-rotor (in ethical 22-carat gold) and twin-barrel architecture for 65 hours of power reserve. Priced from € 37,800
54 LUXURY LIVING
55
LUXURY LIVING FASHION u
BREGUET REINE DE NAPLES 8955 YEAR OF THE OX Classical and feminine, Breguet’s elegant Reine de Naples Ref 8955 features its signature ovalshaped case in rose gold, fitted with the marque’s distinctive fluted case band. Crafted in rose gold, the dial marries Oriental tradition with European aesthetics, showcasing an ox carved out of natural seashell surrounded by a bezel of 40 brilliant-cut diamonds totalling 2.24 carats An alligator leather bracelet perfectly complements the chocolate and beige-shaded dial with a triple-blade buckle adorned with 28 diamonds Limited to just eight models the Breguet’s elegant Reine de Naples Ref 8955 is offered from $73,173 USD
56 LUXURY LIVING
VACHERON CONSTANTIN MÉTIERS D’ART LEGEND OF THE CHINESE ZODIAC YEAR OF THE OX Since the mid-19th Century, Vacheron Constantin, the esteemed Genevan Maison, has enjoyed close ties with China creating several stunning watches as part of its Métiers d’Art collection honororing the Chinese culture. As seems to be tradition the familiar four-window layout of Vacheron Constantin‘s Métiers d’Art collection remains the same, displaying hours, minutes, day and date making room for the focal image of the ox designed using the Chinese paper-cutting technique known as Jianzhi, a tradition sharing much in common with Scherenschnitt, a Swiss form of paper-cutting with the figure etched directly onto the dial’s metal surface, creating subtle depths. The ox is made of platinum or pink gold, matching the case material. It is engraved and then subsequently applied to the dial surface. The remainder of the dial is suffused with blue or bronze tones, again depending on the case material chosen. Twelve models have been created with six in pink old and six in platinum, offered for sale from $102,000.00 57
LUXURY LIVING FASHION u
JAQUET DROZ LIMITED SERIES There are some traditions that Jaquet Droz always observes; one of the most treasured being a tribute to the Chinese zodiac. The connection to China has been a part of the brand’s DNA for centuries. The Jaquet-Droz family began fostering relations with the imperial court as early as 1774. Nearly 250 years later the partnership continues with a tribute to the zodiac sign for the 2021 Chinese New Year: the ox. Legend has it that the Jade Emperor chose the animals in the 12-year zodiac cycle based on a race. The ox is portrayed carrying a rat on its back, which is ultimately how the rat won the race. Since then, the ox has represented attributes like perseverance and reliability — the same values that unite China and Jaquet Droz. The ox has a reputation for staying the course in the face of adversity, powering through and remaining rational. With strong calm and persistence, children born under the sign of the ox are known for their honest and hard work. For women, the ox symbolizes perseverance and the importance of education and keeping the family together.
58 LUXURY LIVING
This year Jaquet Droz creates three watches in red gold and one in white gold with two editions hand-painted Minute Buffalo and another with a Petite-Heure Minute Relief Buffalo. This pair of Petite Heure Minute watches provide an ample canvas for micro-painting, both in a 35 mm ladies’ version with a gem-set bezel and lugs, and a 41 mm version without gems. As for the case-back, the first one’s oscillating weight is personalized with a red gold appliqué. The second one has an 18-karat open-worked rotor that is hand-engraved. Each of these four handcrafted compositions are exclusively being released in a series limited to just eight. Price on Request
59
LUXURY LIVING FASHION u
BLANCPAIN TRADITIONAL CHINESE CALENDAR Each and every year Blancpain releases a special edition watch and this year was no different with the Blancpain Villeret Chinese Traditional Calendar. Forged in noble platinum, the 50-piece limitededition Traditional Chinese Calendar watch pays homage to the age-old culture of the Middle Kingdom. The Grand Feu enamel dial of this exceptional timepiece reveals the complexity of a display combining Chinese calendar indications with those of the Gregorian calendar and moon phases – all specialities of the Manufacture Blancpain. This timepiece, which is even more complex than a perpetual calendar, is driven by the self-winding calibre 3638. This exceptional movement is housed in a 45 mm platinum case with a cabochon ruby on the crown. It incorporates five under-lug correctors – a patented Blancpain invention – enabling easy fingertip adjustment of functions without the need for a correction tool. The sapphire crystal case back enables one to admire the finishing of the movement and its white gold oscillating weight, engraved with the Chinese zodiac sign of the year. Blancpain’s Traditional Chinese Calendar is also available in a non-limited version in red gold with a finely guilloché oscillating weight. Offered for sale from £ 64,000.00 / € 80,000.00 EUR 60 LUXURY LIVING
A FA M I LY S T O RY A M B E R A N D YA S M I N L E B O N W E A R C O L O U R E D D I A M O N D S
61
LUXURY LIVING FASHION u
Porsche Design unveils
PATRICK DEMPSEY as new eyewear ambassador Porsche Design has teamed up with Hollywood star and motor sport enthusiast Patrick Dempsey as the face of Porsche Design Eyewear
Be it as an actor, director, race car driver or athlete, Patrick Dempsey has always followed his vision and continuously strives for the best in himself and all of his projects because of this and his likable and authentic personality, he was the ideal brand ambassador for Porsche Design Eyewear. Not only do the Hollywood star and the exclusive lifestyle brand share the same initials – PD – they also share the same passion for precision and perfection. Dempsey is an avid Porsche driver, co-owns a Porsche customer racing team and has a long-standing relationship with the Porsche brand. The 2021 Porsche Design Eyewear image campaign, featuring Patrick Dempsey, will highlight four models of the brand’s new timeless and innovative sunglasses and prescription glasses. Kicking off the campaign, and currently available in stores, are the new Porsche Design P’8688 A Liquid Titanium glasses with VISION DRIVE™ lens technology – the perfect pair of sunglasses when hitting the road.
P‘8688 A LIqUID TITANIUm SUNgLASSES Patrick Dempsey knows from personal experience as a passionate race car driver just how important clear vision is when behind the wheel. The innovative VISION DRIVE™ lens technology makes the new Porsche Design P’8688 A sunglasses the perfect accessory on the road. The sunglasses, as seen on the actor in the first campaign visuals, are perfect for all road and weather conditions due to VISION DRIVE™ Polarized XTR lenses. The glasses not only feature a high-performance polarization filter and UV400 protection, but a contrast-enhancer that absorbs blue light components better than conventional lenses. This innovative feature increases overall color perception, contrast and glare protection, a decisive optical advantage without compromising a timeless, stylish appearance. The frame is made of 100 percent ultra-light titanium and, in combination with three dimensionally shaped temples, creates a bold yet minimalistic look. Available worldwide in more than 130 Porsche Design Stores, in exclusive outlets, retail stores and online at www.porsche-design.com
62 LUXURY LIVING
63
DISCOVER THE WORLD OF
IVING
Connect with “LUXURY LIVING MAGAZINE” wherever you like and discover a luxurious world of luxury goods and services, travel and exclusive destinations, watches and jewelry, fashion, supercars, yachts, architecture, interior designs, investment, art and culture and much more... 9|
£3.9
ESP
9
€2.9
£3.99 | ESP €2.99
NG
IVI
ons Billi
S| HT YAC
PER SU
NG
VEL Y TRA UR | LUX
IVI
€2.99 | ESP
IVING
G IVnIN
al l Port rta ury Po Sponsored Luxby Billions Luxury Portal ury ons Lux al Billi d by Port ons sore li il on xury Sp B ceassl s Lu Ponrt illion uryPri xct ble by B sored erufeBillions erri FABULOUS sPL n T Spon Luxury Portal o t re li Biciltu fan al A PFEMALES L’en Port The most empowering and xury s Lu OU inspirational women of Billion ir H Y RE tions to revotime n WIS RE HE Au ourshio na 19 s ti id es fa b WE list d VID E A to ed
nsor
by
AL RE
ATE EST
PER | SU
GA & ME
Spo
GO LY LD re BO rma TO cina A ’s new t Offi eils it ayach unv fi meg sci-
£3.99
l rta Po ury Lux RS CA
.99
P €2
9 | ES
£3.9
AL RE
ATE EST
PER | SU
GA & ME
S| HT YAC
PER SU
RS CA
VEL Y TRA UR | LUX
ATE L EST REA
ER | SUP
HTS A YAC & MEG
ER | SUP
URY S | LUX CAR
VEL TRA
REAL ESTATE | SUPER & MEGA YACHTS | SUPER CARS | LUXURY TRAVEL
VEL TRA
leto l Pau tre Midd JeanaulKtiae G
NGMAK
ATE L EST REA
ER | SUP
HTS A YAC & MEG
ER | SUP
URY S | LUX CAR
REAL
ENT I C TEM IVCZINGER 2S1TA et O Buck after C visit
TE | ESTA
ER & SUP
TS | A YACH MEG
EL RY TRAV S | LUXU ER CAR SUP
REAL ESTATE | SUPER & MEGA YACHTS | SUPER CARS | LUXURY TRAVEL
REAL
TE | ESTA
ER & SUP
TS | A YACH MEG
EL RY TRAV S | LUXU ER CAR SUP
l” orma ew N e “NTINSELTOWN cahr thes senTIPPLES tials erit pW ry hy fashion es Hard hitters Matthew tu n st ce McConaughey and the Rock A 21 ID 19new spirit brands launch e COV six Escap ese The ST ith th LUNGGEN w S EL F ABT IGIO hy AV DS rap FARSTWORK N TRFROM I ith tog llide N ead a w E m E PARADISE y ndscine gn co D R TRe year ah 1 m T o n e si e e i d V rh th on with theseforfabulous es PE str & fWand ceaarms N A aunch Ga rdon “WORK-STAYTION” URO other f dr es!IO r Pitt L iraval F E ke no o er o resIsS Go Brad packages eM SE O sort li ign dV Di O des lous AN ART A re leur D SIVE R F e WhoChas E u HE i Th fab K what LU G st A N EXC TMHPE e & ! IS BAto ri itDtakes step into 7 rang CHA meNey ecting Ch BOthNe exclusive 00 1 ll w o ils o mo coin c unve n ti h ar s e ok at on M st A h t loser lo top 1 he ef s Ac
Ve ti s fe
1
1
ey loon e C oN i p org e bilileiNDsh e G D t h r fr
h Ar to t e C e st ’s rise oN re arcia th ni G Da
Daniel Craig’s sHOes?
AN llA Do
DOWNLOAD THE DIGITAL EDITION Enjoy Luxury Living Magazine when you’re on the move The tablet or smartphone version of LUXURY LIVING MAGAZINE gives you access to our fabulous print edition wherever you may be. It’s perfect for commuting and travelling. Download your copy today for a FREE trial for up to 30 days.
Offering instant access to the latest in property & lifestyle
LUXURY LIVING FASHION u
POSSESSION TURN FOR THE EXTRAORDINARY The possession collection captivates with its playful spinning elements that awaken the sense of touch
65
LUXURY LIVING FASHION u
Piaget’s Possession collection was launched back in 1990 with a strik-
ing ring, marking the birth of its most iconic spinning ring that was both vis-
ually captivating and tactilely playful. Possessions is a jewels that brings con-
fidence to its owner, allowing them to take possession of their life and make
anything happen. It is not only a delightful symbolic way of experiencing
the perpetual circle of life but has also become a secret ally for everyone who
loves nothing more than to create their own extraordinary moments.
Here we take a look at this iconic collection...
66 LUXURY LIVING
POSSESSION SLIDING PENDANTS IN EXTRAORDINARY COLOURS Piaget’s three sliding pendants featuring malachite, carnelian and turquoise. All three Possession sliding pendants come in 18-karat rose gold and are set with 20 brilliant-cut diamonds (approx. 0.35 cts.). With a length
of64cm, the central ornamental stones slide up and down, providing different ways to wear the necklace. At the
end of each necklace, a further three matching hard stone beads and two gold beads elegantly dangle beneath.
POSSESSION LUCK PENDANTS Two luck pendants also join this rainbow presentation with a choice of turquoise or carnelian ornamental stones. Each 39-42cm necklace comes in 18-karat rose gold and is decorated with 20 brilliant-cut diamonds
(approx. 0.28 cts.). A malachite version is already available. There are several ways to wear the new luck pendants as they can be worn on the stone side or the rose gold side, and can also be personalized with an engraving of a special date or initials.
67
LUXURY LIVING FASHION u
POSSESSION BANGLE AND EARRINGS In addition to these necklaces, Piaget Possessions also includes a double bangle in full 18-karat rose gold with two bright green malachite stones
surrounded by 30 brilliant-cut diamonds (approx. 0.42 cts.) and two new transformable Possession 18-karat rose gold earrings with carnelian or
turquoise beads. These earrings come with 28 brilliant-cut diamonds (approx. 0.32 cts.). The earrings can we worn in various ways: only with the
gold beads, as studs, with the gold and the ornamental stones beads or even asymmetrically.
Piaget is also launching pink gold studs that sparkle with elegance thanks to their glittering ring of diamonds.
68 LUXURY LIVING
MALACHITE The Piaget family hails from La Côte-aux-
Fées, a village in the Neuchâtel Jura region where the green meadows glisten in the sum-
mer sunshine. This vibrant green landscape was a constant inspiration for Valentin Piaget
in the creation of his extraordinary timepieces and jewellery. Today, the Maison’s love for the
colour green continues with the use of malachite, an ornamental stone that radiates with different lines and intensities of green.
69
LUXURY LIVING FASHION u
CARNELIAN Piaget loves to work with the carnelian stone
to create the deepest and most radiant shade of red. Red is the most intense colour in the
rainbow and the richest in terms of its sym-
bolism. For Piaget, red is the colour of fire
and fervour, it raises the temperature, frees the mind, and enlivens conversations. It is
dramatic and passionate and the ultimate colour of passion.
70 LUXURY LIVING
TURQUOISE Blue is the symbol of infinity for Piaget. “The sky is the limit” is an expression that could
have been invented for the Maison which is
distinguished by its inherent audacity. It is through the colour blue that we visualise eve-
rything that is beyond our reach. Blue is also regarded as protective and represents dreams destined to become true.
Start your journey of extraordinary moments with Piaget’s Possession collection visit: www.piaget.com
71
LUXURY LIVING FASHION u
keep your underwear drawer
UPDATED With Hamilton and Hare subscription service
London-based gentleman’s brand Hamilton and Hare is committed to giving men’s loungewear more specifically their underwear some much needed attention. Dedicated to delivering perfectly designed delicates the label which was founded in 2021 by Olivia Francis, has become renowned for its focus on the perfect fit forget the traditional baggy, ill-fitting styles Hamilton and Hare’s briefs fit like a Savile Row suit which of course they should do considering they were designed by working with a Savile Row tailor.
72 LUXURY LIVING
u
We all know that underwear shopping (unless it’s for the ladies!) is the last thing most men think of and due to the current constrictions of Covid the brand have recently introduced a subscription service across the full range with flexible delivery packages offered at 1, 3 or 6 monthly intervals, and as an added bonus by subscribing you’ll receive a 15% discount on your order every month plus free delivery. To find out more visit: www.hamiltonandhare.com/pages/subscription-guide
73
74 LUXURY LIVING
IVING
TRAVEL Sponsored by .com
One of the greatest pleasures of life is being able to travel the world and wonder in awe at its beauty. From faraway exotic lands to exclusive destinations, resorts, spas, villas for your family vacation or romantic getaway Luxury Living Magazine features some of the world’s finest luxury hotels and travel destinations.
75
LUXURY LIVING TRAVEL u
SUN RESORTS LAUNCHES
“WORK-STAY- PLAY” mAkiNg iT EASy fOR OvERSEAS gUESTS TO RELOCATE TO mAURiTiUS fOR Up TO ONE yEAR
76 LUXURY LIVING
LUXURY LIVING TRAVEL u
As the COVID 19 Pandemic began to take hold, Mauritius introduced a new ‘Premium Visa’ scheme valid for a period of one year, renewable, to encourage overseas visitors to come for a long stay in Mauritius, a COVID-safe destination. A 14 days quarantine period for all incoming passengers is currently applicable and Sun Resorts is pleased to offer complimentary accommodation for this 14 day period, for a long stay of one month or longer. Guests will have everything taken care of during their extended stay, allowing them to focus on what is important and make the most of their new tropical surroundings. Working remotely is made easy with new ‘Business Suites’ and co-working spaces nestled in the heart of the resorts coconut groves thanks to Sun’s recently announced partnership with ‘The Hive’, Mauritian based co-working specialists and creators of workspaces that foster an enhanced working lifestyle.
78 LUXURY LIVING
More free time and an improved work life balance, gives guests the golden opportunity to tick off their bucket lists whilst in Mauritius; mastering waterskiing, climbing a mountain, playing golf on a world class course or even learning to speak French, the choices are endless. A dedicated concierge service will assist in planning guests tailormade long stays from car rental to local sim card and can even get the kids in school for those travelling as a family. Bookings also include membership of the Sun resorts members club offering an array of advantages, access to the members clubhouse and the perfect opportunity to mingle with the locals. “The pandemic and lockdowns have certainly changed the way we work... and travel. At Sun Resorts we want to offer great solutions to people as they adapt their lives to the ‘new normal’. With Work. Stay. Play. we have created a lifestyle offer that will bring the local clientele and our international guests together, whilst offering the best work life balance there is” says Francois Eynaud, CEO Sun Resorts. A six month stay with Sun Resorts starts at 2400€ per month (single occupancy) at La Pirogue, including daily breakfast. For more information contact our Long Stay Concierge: +230 402 0100 Or visit www.work-stay-play.com
79
LUXURY LIVING TRAVEL u
Celebrating 25 years of
Barefoot Luxury As Soneva Fushi celebrates 25 years as a sustainable pioneer, founder Sonu Shivdasani looks back at how it all started – and how Soneva’s innovative approach to barefoot luxury is still making waves
“I was completely blown away. I’d never seen anything like it.” This was Sonu’s first glimpse of the Maldives, flying in with his then-girlfriend, Eva, in 1987. They never looked back. In 1995 - 25 years ago - they opened Soneva Fushi, the very first luxury resort in the Maldives. Things were very different back then.
“There was little development. The handful of resorts were very basic, with plastic chairs, strip lighting, salt water showers - and all the food came out of tins”. But it was the landscape that captivated Sonu and Eva, who married soon after.
“The first time I put my head in the water I was staggered. The colour, the coral, the fish - it was like being in an aquarium.”
LUXURY LIVING TRAVEL u
Sonu and Eva fell in love with the Maldives, and returned time and again, but they soon became disillusioned. “We no longer wanted to support the resorts because we could see they weren’t sustainable. Coral was being taken from the reefs to build villas, and the couple felt they could do something different. ”They were right. “Malé, the capital, was tiny in those days, just a few buildings and a handful of cars. The biggest building belonged to the government. I turned up in my shorts and polo shirt and asked if I could lease an island,” says Sonu, with a laugh. It would take several years before the couple received their wish – but it was worth the wait. They discovered Kunfunadhoo, an unspoilt, uninhabited tropical island far from the established resorts, in the pristine Baa Atoll, and began work on Soneva Fushi. A NEW STYLE OF LUXURY “It was obvious what needed to be done. We needed to build sustainably, to protect the coral and maintain the vegetation. We needed to make the menus as fresh and local as possible, and to limit and treat our waste. And we needed to get rid of shoes!” That ethos of sustainability – and of chic, barefoot style – has been there from the very beginning. “The idea of luxury back then was formality and fuss. It was dressing up for dinner, but we wanted to move away from all that.” Soneva Fushi introduced a “No news, no shoes” philosophy, encouraging guests to disconnect from technology, kick off their shoes and feel the sand between their toes. It struck a chord with guests who were seeking a more authentic, relaxed way to holiday – a way that was also sustainable and had a positive impact.
82 LUXURY LIVING
LUXURY LIVING TRAVEL u
Sonu and Eva also introduced the idea of Barefoot Butlers, a bespoke one-on-one butler service for every villa. “We felt we needed to create a personalised service from the start,” says Sonu, and it was those connections between the team and the guests that further solidified Soneva as a brand that was making waves. Soneva’s tremendous success has allowed it to grow. Next came Soneva Gili (which has since been sold) in 2000 with the first overwater villas in the Maldives, and Soneva Kiri on Thailand’s rainforest swathed island of Koh Kood opened in 2009. The ethos remained the same: remote areas, extraordinary natural beauty, and a sustainable thread that runs through everything. Soneva Villas followed, offering the chance to purchase a private residence in the sublime surrounds of a Soneva resort, and in 2015, Soneva in Aqua launched, a 23-metre luxury yacht with the experience of a villa at sea. 2016 saw the next Soneva resort open in the Maldives: Soneva Jani in the beautiful Noonu Atoll, a 5.6 km private lagoon with overwater villas (complete with signature waterslides) and island villas with endless views of sparkling turquoise. Most recently, Soneva unveiled the new Water Retreats at Soneva Fushi and measuring 584 sqm./6,286 sqft, are the largest in the world.
u NEXT UP: Two more resorts are scheduled to join the Soneva family next year – one in the Maldives, and another on a jungly island in Okinawa, Japan’s tropical south. What ties all the resorts together is the unwavering commitment to what Sonu and Eva call the SLOW LIFE concept, where incredible experiences create unforgettable memories, all with a minimum impact on the natural world. As well as eliminating plastics, introducing water filtration systems and cultivating organic gardens at each resort, other innovations include building in-resort observatories and glass-upcycling studios. The latest scheme is Namoona, which provides funding, expertise and coordination for waste management systems that clean up local islands. For more information about Soneva visit: www.soneva.com
Life is not about what you see, it’s about what you feel...
For reservations, contact: + 91 124 4511000 Reservations@soneva.com Maldives | Thailand soneva.com
Inspiring a lifetime of rare experiences
Travel News SponSored by
.com
A look AheAd to exciting new hotel And resort openings Despite the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, the tourism sector is still expanding establishing new and exciting location to tempt us all once we are all finally allowed to travel safety again. With this is mind we take a look at the exciting new opening scheduled for the year ahead.
hABitAs creAtes lUxUrY 3d printed resort in the desert Located amongst dramatic sandstone cliffs and the archaeological remains of Hegra, lies
Habitas AlUla, a new unique communityfocused eco-friendly resort.
88 LUXURY LIVING
Bathed in local rituals and traditions, Habitas AlUla promises to be an oasis of calm and tranquillity in the rugged desert Scheduled to open in the first quarter of 2021, Habitas AlUla, is a 100room luxury eco-friendly resort commissioned by the Kingdom in the desert canyons of Ashar Valley with an aim to steer the country away from its dependency on oil and open up it’s tourism sector.
With a focus to blend seamlessly into the desert surroundings of AlUla a UNESCO World Heritage site that houses the remains of the ancient
Nabatean civilisation. Habitas AlUla promises to bring guests closer to the surrounding heritage and environment, taking an innovative modular ap-
proach utilizing 3D printed material to create all of its 100 capsule-style bedrooms and public spaces through the resort. The resort will also focus on light touch, sustainable tourism, hoping to emphasis experiential luxury through cultural exchange, this includes:
• Sourcing local handicrafts for an authentic guest experience.
To support this endeavour, Habitas will collaborate with the AlUla
Girls School, a former girls-only school that was transformed into a lively hub for AlUla nurturing local artists and artisans. This joint
effort is enhanced by Turquoise Mountain and the Prince’s Foundation School of Traditional Arts, both of which already operate in the
Kingdom to develop crafts markets and enable artisans from Saudi Arabia.
• Training schools for local staff who will welcome guests to AlUla - their home - moving beyond the “us and them” nature of many tourist destinations to create an immersive cultural experience.
• Developing local artisanal crafts as hotel consumables, creating local jobs based around local artisans, skills, and products. Habitas has
already made a tradition of welcome bracelets as gifts for its guests in
its other resorts, but also sourcing uniforms, furniture, candles all made using local sustainable materials by local artisans.
• Showcasing local Saudi artists through collaborations and installations at the Habitas resort.
• Localising food supplies by sourcing from AlUla’s farmers and setting up cooking classes led by local chefs.
• Establishing community-tourist links through “meet and eat”
experiences with residents and farmers, visits to schools, and local staff.
• Promoting local conservation efforts by building awareness among guests/tourists of local sustainability and environmental causes.
In the first phase, 50 rooms will be unveiled in early 2021 with further phas-
es scheduled for completion later on in the year. According to Habitas CEO
Oliver Ripley, “Its people, history and natural beauty are inspiring making it an ideal location for a Habitas property because the world, now more than
ever, needs to create places to reconnect with one another and with nature”. For more information visit: www.experiencealula.com 89
LUXURY LIVING TRAVEL u
pAtinA MAldiVes, FAri islAnds A revolutionary project centred in nature by Studio MK27
Capella Hotel Group introduces a new brand to its portfolio – Patina Hotels & Resorts. The sophisticated lifestyle brand created for progressive travellers of a new generation. Patina Maldives, Fari Islands will be the first launch, with
properties in Ubud, Bali and Sanya, China, also in development. Patina is one of two unique brands under Capella Hotel Group, which boasts a common legacy of crafted design combined with intuitive service.
Scheduled to launch in Q2 2021, Patina Maldives, Fari Islands is a radical new example of biophilic design from renowned Brazilian architect Marcio Kogan, founder of international award-winning Studio MK27. The resort will
offer 90 beach and water villas, ranging from one to three bedrooms, all of which embody a harmony of sanctuary and stimulation. Accompanying the villas, the resort also offers 20 Fari Studios.
90 LUXURY LIVING
Located in the North Malé Atoll of the Maldives, guests are free to choose between privacy and seclusion, exploring a triptych of luxury resort islands, and embracing the vibrant social scene that emanates from the archipelago’s communal heart: the Fari Marina Village and Fari Beach Club.
Delicate architectural lines remain respectfully low, never breaching the horizon, in deference to the exuberant, encompassing blues above and below. Verdant landscaping envelops each of Patina Maldives’ 90 contemporary
one- to three-bedroom Beach and Water Pool Villas, alongside 20 Fari Studios in private sanctuary, yet unfolds invitingly into the surrounding island life; a simultaneous experience of isolation and belonging.
91
LUXURY LIVING TrAVeL u
Kogan’s design vision is reflected throughout Patina Maldives’ accommodation, restaurants and social buildings. Public spaces are open, light and inviting and offer a communal
beating heart with the Fari Marina Village and Fari Beach Club. Here, guests will find alluring retail and enticing dining options as well as a large, commissioned James Turrell
pavilion. The permeable design of the island’s buildings promotes a pleasing and inviting experimentation of each space; these are organised according to a hierarchy of textures and coverings that creates a gentle transition between open and closed spaces.
Throughout the interiors, earthy colour palettes, subtle textures and matte surfaces are
complemented by arcadian materials to create a dialogue with nature. Wood, linen, rattan,
paper cord, stone and natural fibres extend out from the interiors, blurring boundaries,
drawing the outside world in whilst enticing inhabitants out. Uniquely for the Maldives, floor-to-ceiling Panoramah! Sliding window systems allow the villas to be opened to the elements on all three sides – while custom-made blackout blinds offer cocoon-like cosiness at the touch of a button.
92 LUXURY LIVING
Millwork furniture customised by Studio MK27 exclusively for Patina Maldives incorpo-
rates subtle practical and aesthetic design features that elevate the in-room experience and cater to the needs of the connected contemporary traveller, from bed frames with integrated control panels to concealed device charging compartments. Carefully selected pieces from the world’s leading furniture designers imbue the spaces with individuality and luxury: from
Bassam Fellows, Lin Brasil, Gervasoni and Vitra indoors; to Dedon, Carlos Motta, and Paola
Lenti outdoors. Further drama is added by unique features including monolithic standalone twin vanities made from Nero Marquina marble and basins hewn from a single block of stone, offset by bespoke Italian porcelain tiles and al fresco free-standing double bathtubs. For more information visit:
www.patinahotels.com/maldives-fari-islands
93
LUXURY LIVING TRAVEL u
ritZ cArlton to open First ski resort in eUrope Marriott International have signed an agreement with Mario Julen to bring The RitzCarlton brand to Zermatt, debuting the first Ritz-Carlton ski resort in Europe.
u
A Ritz-Carlton will be opening in Zermatt, Switzerland, with all expectations that it will probably
be the most luxurious ski resort in Europe. Scheduled to open in 2026, the 69-guest room property
will bring the brand’s legendary service and elegant design to the world-famous Swiss resort destination. Once open, the property will serve as the second Ritz-Carlton hotel in Switzerland, joining The Ritz-Carlton Hotel de la Paix, Geneva.
The Ritz-Carlton, Zermatt will be designed by award-winning Paris-based firm AW² led by partner
architects Reda Amalou and Stéphanie Ledoux, with the architectural and interior design expected to offer a refined take on the classic mountain chalet.
The design will play with natural materials and light filtered to create a sense of retreat and respite. Inspired by the nomadic origins of the region’s Walser community, the hotel’s design aims to connect people with nature and celebrate the mountain location. The building façades will be finished with
locally-sourced natural materials, such as wood and stone to reflect the rustic and authentic lifestyle of the Walser people.
94 LUXURY LIVING
The hotel ground floor is expected to include lounge areas, meeting and multi-function rooms, a lounge bar, a main restaurant and a large fireplace which are all positioned to frame the view of the mountains. Plans for the hotel include
an indoor and heated outdoor pool which are connected through a window bringing filtered natural light into the indoor pool. The design utilizes large openings and windows to remove the barrier between indoor and outdoor spaces
and uses stone interiors to merge with the natural environment outside. An array of recreational activities such as ‘skiin ski-out’ access to the slopes, a tranquil spa with a gym and both indoor and outdoor swimming pools are part of the vision for guests to enjoy. The resort is also expected to offer meeting and event facilities.
Zermatt affords unrivalled skiing for all levels, climbing across the Matterhorn peak as well as easy access to Cervinia
in Italy for off-piste, heli-skiing and glacier skiing in the summer months. The town is well renowned for its après-ski activities offering outstanding restaurants and luxurious retail. Visitors can travel to Zermatt from Geneva and Zurich international airports in under four hours by train through enchanting Alpine scenery, or via private helicopter. For more information visit: www.ritzcarlton.com
95
LUXURY LIVING TrAVeL u
dreAM oF pArAdise FoUnd At six senses lA sAgesse, grenAdA Marking the brand’s debut resort in the Caribbean, Six Senses La Sagesse, Grenada is set on a headland on the southern part of the island known for its spice and relaxed lifestyle.
96 LUXURY LIVING
Set to open in late 2022, the resort and residences are spread over 38 acres (15 hec-
tares) and laid out using the natural topography of the land, with great effort given to ensuring space, privacy and uninterrupted views over the turquoise sea. The re-
sort will offer 56 guestrooms, seven one-bedroom villas and five two-bedroom vil-
las, with no building higher than a palm tree. Influenced by the region’s traditional architecture, the design language mimics a Caribbean village bursting with variety along the lakefront promenade and beach. The walkways through the gardens are
made of repurposed nutmeg shells and cocoa skins, maintaining the connection to Grenada’s “Spice Island” heritage.
97
98 LUXURY LIVING
99
LUXURY LIVING POWER u
CRystal EndEavOR on Track to Debut in Summer 2021
100 LUXURY LIVING
Production for the highly anticipated luxury expedition ship recently resumed as Crystal looks ahead to new destinations and experiences for travellers
101
LUXURY LIVING POWER u
Crystal Endeavor, the German-built, PC6-designated vessel for Crystal Expedition Cruises is on track to debut this Summer. Originally set to launch in August of 2020, the ship’s construction was delayed as the global health crisis forced a shutdown of MV WERFTEN where Crystal Endeavor is currently under construction. The shipyard has reopened fully this year and Crystal is pleased with the resumption of work on the vessel. “While we are certainly disappointed that Crystal Endeavor’s delivery has been delayed, we are encouraged by the progress and dedication of the professionals at MV WERFTEN and are looking forward to introducing this remarkable ship,” said Jack Anderson, Crystal’s interim president and CEO. “As the most spacious and luxurious ship in the expedition market, Crystal Endeavor will offer new ways for luxury travelers to explore the world while also delivering on what Crystal does best – a design that anticipates the needs and comforts of our guests; generous public spaces and elegant suites; immersive and enriching destination experiences; world-class cuisine and, of course, warm and attentive service from the best crew in the world.”
102 LUXURY LIVING
103
LUXURY LIVING POWER u
Crystal had cancelled Crystal Endeavor voyages through May 1, 2021however, some of the exciting upcoming destinations planned for Crystal Endeavor include the Norwegian Fjords and Scottish Isles, France, Spain and Portugal, the Atlantic Isles and Western Africa, Brazil and Argentina, and Antarctica. Navigating some of the world’s most remote areas, where wildlife far out-measures human life and rugged landscapes punctuate the waterline. The ship will offer three dedicated categories of exploration: Remote Expedition, visiting some of the most farflung destinations and uninhabited locales; Cultural Discovery, distinguished by an emphasis on the region and its people; and Destination Exploration, highlighting the natural wonders and beauty of the destinations. The 20,000-GRT PC-6 expedition ship will accommodate just 200 guests with elegantly casual, generous public spaces designed to showcase the outside scenery; all-suite, all-verandah, butlerserviced guest rooms; Michelin-inspired dining options with six dining venues including Master Chef Nobu Matsuhisa’s Umi Uma & Sushi Bar; fullservice Crystal Life Salon & Spa and a state-of-theart Fitness Centre. Expedition-specific amenities and spaces will enhance guests’ experience, including enrichment areas, designated mud rooms, a helicopter lounge and a seven-person submersible will also be on board, allowing for deep-water explorations up to 980 feet in several areas of the world. For more information and Crystal reservations visit www.crystalcruises.com
104 LUXURY LIVING
105
107
LUXURY LIVING traVel u
Work From Paradise With hilton seychelles’
neW Workation Packages
For those wanting to make their tropical Zoom backgrounds a reality need look no further than Hilton Seychelles’ new workation packages 108 LUXURY LIVING
109
LUXURY LIVING TRAVEL u
u
A Covid vacation program may be underway but for travellers who want to upgrade their work from home to work from paradise, Hilton Seychelles’ two properties on
Mahé are offering separate workation packages to cater to different budgets and
needs, whilst both providing a number of added extras and amenities to ensure guests can work remotely without any hassle.
110 LUXURY LIVING
111
LUXURY LIVING traVel u
Digital nomads looking for luxury on their working getaway will be well catered for at the
stunning Hilton Seychelles Northolme Resort & Spa. Perched on the hilltops in north
Mahé and nestled amongst lush greenery, the hotel offers the ideal working environment; benefitting from spacious accommodation, meeting rooms and a peaceful library during the day, whilst enjoying the luxurious facilities, attentive service and the host of activities
on offer once it’s time to clock-off. Available for stays of 10 nights or more, Northolme’s workation package welcomes guests to stay in one of the hotel’s Grand Oceanview
Pool Villas; a tree-house style villa with panoramic views and a private infinity pool, complete with an expansive terrace where your desk can be set up for an enviable working
backdrop. With high-speed internet, complimentary access to the library and meeting rooms, and half board included in the package rates, guests will be left with nothing to
worry about during their working hours. After a productive day, choose from a range of complimentary activities, including snorkeling and kayaking, where guests can unwind
and relax as they discover the incredible marine life that surrounds the picturesque hotel. For even more leisurely days, guests can enjoy a romantic candlelit dinner, either poolside in-villa or on the beach, and one of the hotel’s famous floating breakfasts in their private pool - both part of the package rate.
112 LUXURY LIVING
113
LUXURY LIVING TRAVEL u
Those wanting to combine their workation with a hint of adventure should head to the south of Mahé for Doubletree by Hilton - Allamanda Resort & Spa’s recently launched package. Set
in picturesque landscaped gardens, Allamanda is a boutique resort with only 30 guest rooms and its location on the south east of the island makes it perfectly placed to act as a bolthole
to explore this incredible island. Guests can spend their days discovering hidden sandy coves, relaxing on one of the nearby beaches with rum shacks and pop-up bars, exploring the hiking
trails that wind through the south of the island, or picking up souvenirs from Le Jardin du Roi, an 80-acre spice garden with a rich history. The workation package is available to those staying
for 10 nights or more and includes half board as standard, as well as high speed internet, access to meeting spaces, and complimentary activities for downtime, including snorkeling and
kayaking. With a focus on those who want to get out and explore, the package also includes complimentary car rental for a day during guests’ stay. Allamanda’s guest rooms offer spacious
accommodation, with balconies overlooking the hotel’s private beach and the azure waters of the Indian Ocean, guaranteeing to create a calming work environment.
114 LUXURY LIVING
115
LUXURY LIVING traVel u
With increasing numbers of keen travellers looking for international destinations to work from, these two new packages promise to entice those looking for a paradise escape.
Hilton Seychelles Northolme Resort & Spa and Doubletree by Hilton – Allamanda Resort & Spa are part of
Hilton CleanStay, Hilton’s industry-leading programme of cleanliness and disinfection in all its properties globally.
116 LUXURY LIVING
Nightly rates for Hilton Seychelles Northolme Resort & Spa’s workation package start from €780 for stays of more
than 21 nights, and €820 for stays of 10-20 nights - based on double occupancy. Single occupancy rates start from €720 for stays of more than 21 nights, and €760 for stays of 10-20 nights.
For more information and to book, please contact sezdt.info@hilton.com Nightly rates for Doubletree by Hilton - Allamanda Resort & Spa’s workation package start from €330 for stays of more than 21 nights, and €350 for stays of 10-20 nights - based on double occupancy. Single occupancy rates start from €280 for stays of more than 21 nights, and €300 for stays of 10-20 nights. For more information and to book, please contact sezdt.info@hilton.com
117
118 LUXURY LIVING
IVING
LIVING Luxury is in the eye of the beholder, but when it comes to a luxurious lifestyle, we like to think that we know a thing or two. Our responsibility is to connect our readers with the world’s most prestigious companies and events, such as the Cannes Film Festival, Art Basel and of course, the Monaco Yacht Show. We are unashamedly luxurious and believe life is far too short to not enjoy the finer things in life.
119
LUXURY LIVING LIVING u
THE MOST INSPIRATIONAL WOMEN OF THE LAST
100 YEARS History is rife with examples of obstacles, challenges, and bias against women, despite this, or perhaps in response to such adversity, women have risen to the challenge over the centuries. Here we celebrate a few women who we believe have broken down barriers and will continue to inspire women for generations to come...
120 LUXURY LIVING
MARGRET THATCHER: 1925-2013 She was a woman who divided a nation for many she was a source of inspiration for others she was a force to be reckoned with but one thing stood firm and that was her lion-hearted love for Great Britain. Baroness Thatcher was Britain’s first and only female prime minister, her death in 2013 as did her life created mass hysteria & news, many mourned but some also. For those who have watched the Netflix series the Crown it is instantly recognisable that as the first women to be the head of government of a Western democracy, she was a towering figure in post-war British and world politics where her presence on the world stage sent a powerful message. But Thatcher was far from a prop on that stage. She was major player, talking as tough as she walked. With words she comforted a nation in the wake of terror attacks and emboldened women to chart their own destinies. But with words too, she launched a war and eviscerated her opponents. Nicknamed the “Iron Lady” by the Soviet press after a 1976 speech declaring that “the Russians are bent on world dominance,” Thatcher was a woman with high standards and a short temper. After becoming both a chemist and a barrister and having two children, in 1959 Thatcher saw her long-held political ambitions realized when she became a Member of Parliament in the Conservative Party. Twenty years later, she found herself the Prime Minister. Serving from 1979 to 1990, she served three consecutive terms, marking the longest stay in office since 1894 a title still upheld today. In her 11 years at the top, she advocated for the privatization of state enterprises and industries, she took on the trade unions and reduced social expenditures across the board working against a fair amount of resistance, to turn Britain into a more entrepreneurial, free-market economy, and is credited along with her conservative partner across the Atlantic, President Ronald Reagan, with helping hasten the demise of the Soviet Union. She will most notably be remembered for her doggedness determination when Argentina invaded the Falklands, where she despatched a task force to the South Atlantic driving the enemy off the islands in an incomparable military operation 8,000 miles from home and her staunch defiance against Arthur Scargill’s nationwide and year-long miners’ strike, which threatened to cripple Britain’s entire economic base.
121
LUXURY LIVING LIVING u
MARIE CURIE: 1867- 1934 Marie Curie is one of the most celebrated women in the history of modern science. A pioneer in the field of radiology, she accomplished an impressive number of firsts: she was the first person to be honoured with not just one, but two Nobel Prizes, one each in physics and chemistry. She was also the first female professor in the centuries-long history of the University of Paris. Along with her husband, also an accomplished scientist, she helped set the groundwork for a modern understanding of radioactivity – a term that Curie actually coined herself. Named Maria Sklodowska she was born in Warsaw, Poland in 1867. The daughter of a schoolteacher, she received a basic education at local schools and learned the rudiments of science from her father. Women were not allowed to attend the University of Warsaw at the time, and Maria and her patriotic Polish family chaffed under Russian rule. At the age of 23yrs, she left for Paris, where she obtained degrees in Physics and Math. There she met Pierre Curie, a professor of physics; it was here that the two began a life-long collaboration in life and science. Her achievements included a theory of radioactivity, techniques for isolating radioactive isotopes, and the discovery of two elements, polonium and radium. Under her direction, the world’s first studies were conducted into the treatment of neoplasms, using radioactive isotopes. She also founded the Curie Institutes in Paris and in Warsaw, which still remains a major centre of medical research today. Her work with radiation is now part of the most sophisticated cancer-treatment protocols in the world, though she herself succumbed to leukaemia after decades of daily radiation exposure.
122 LUXURY LIVING
INDIRA GANDHI: 1917 – 1984 Hailing from one of the world’s most politically influential families, she was the nation’s daughter. Brought up under the close watch of both her father Jawaharlal Nehru, who was India’s first Prime Minister after decades of British rule, and to her country, Indira was India’s Iron Lady. When Indira Gandhi was elected Prime Minister in 1966, a TIME cover line read, “Troubled India in a Woman’s Hands.” She was elected four times as the Prime Minister of the state skills and tenacity, she developed strong international relations with several countries including the Soviet Union and China. Furthermore her steady hands went on to steer India, not without controversy, through recession, famine, the detonation of the nation’s first atomic bomb, a corruption scandal and a civil war in neighbouring Pakistan that, under her guidance, led to the creation of a new state, Bangladesh. Ending her political career of 46 years, Prime Minister Gandhi was assassinated on the lawn of her house on the October 31, 1984 by two of her own Sikh bodyguards. It is widely believed that her disputes with the Sikhs provoked them to claim revenge on her for the massive attack against the holy Sikh shrine, the “Golden Temple”, four months prior to her assassination. Indira Gandhi was an extraordinary leader with a strong will to address the issues of the developing countries. Every year her birthday is commemorated across India.
123
LUXURY LIVING LIVING u
MALALA YOUSAFZAI: 1997 – Present Growing up in Taliban control Pakistan, Malala Yousafzai was a young women desperate to have an education a practise outlawed by the Tailban. At just 11 years old, Yousafzai began to speak out on a blog documenting her experiences. She rose in prominence, giving interviews in print and on television, and she was nominated for the International Children’s Peace Prize by activist Desmond Tutu. In retaliation for her activism aged just 15, Yousafzai was shot and left for dead by a Taliban gunman in a failed assassination attempt. She remained unconscious and in critical condition before finally being transferred from Pakistan to the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham, UK. The attempt on her life sparked an international outpouring of support for Yousafzai and following her recovery, Yousafzai became a prominent activist. In 2013, she gave a speech to the United Nations and published her first book, I Am Malala which resulted in her becoming the youngest Nobel Peace Prize laureate aged just 17 years. Most recently, the 23-year-old human rights activist announced she will be producing content exclusively for Apple TV+ to bring empowering content to the streaming platform.
124 LUXURY LIVING
MOTHER THERESA: 1910 - 1997 Her iconic white garb with its blue stripe trim is now equated with her ideals of service and charity among “the poorest of the poor.” Born Agnes Bojaxhiu to Albanian parents living under the Ottoman Empire, the petite nun made her way to India in 1929, building her start-up missionary community of 13 members in Kolkata (formerly Calcutta) into a global network of more than 4,000 sisters running orphanages and AIDS hospices. Sometimes criticized for lacking adequate medical training, not addressing poverty on a grander scale, actively opposing birth control and abortion and even cozying up to dictators, the winner of the Nobel Peace Prize nonetheless spent inspired countless volunteers to serve.
125
LUXURY LIVING LIVING u
OPRAH WINFREY: 1954 - Present Daytime television host, businesswoman and philanthropist, Oprah Winfrey overcome an impoverished childhood in rural Mississippi to build an eponymous media empire and is today regarded as one of the world’s biggest influencers. The Oprah Winfrey Show, which has won multiple Emmy Awards and is broadcast in 145 countries, is the most successful daytime TV program in history. Winfrey’s unparalleled influence on culture — often called “the Oprah effect” — has boosted lesser-known authors onto the New York Times best-sellers list while reviving America’s interest in classic literature ( John Steinbeck), turned obscure products into household brands (Spanx, Ciao Bella), and helped a whole battery of other personalities become full-fledged media powers of their own (Dr. Phil, Dr. Oz, Rachael Ray). Her 2008 endorsement of Barack Obama was worth 1 million votes to the then candidate in his primary battle with Hillary Clinton, according to one study. Oprah has also dabbled in acting, garnering Golden Globe and Oscar nominations for her role as Sofia in Steven Spielberg’s The Colour Purple. Beyond television, Winfrey is the co-author of several books and the publisher of O, the Oprah Magazine. With a net worth of $1billion, Oprah is believed to be the richest African American of the 20th Century dedicating her career not only to show business, but also to humanitarian issues campaigning for change, through her private charity The Angel Network, she raised more than $80 million, with 100% of the donations funding charitable projects and grants across the globe. Oprah’s Angel Network has helped establish 60 schools in 13 countries, create scholarships, support women’s shelters, and build youth centres and homes—changing the future for people all over the world.
126 LUXURY LIVING
127
LUXURY LIVING LIVING u
FLORENCE JOYNER (FLO JO): 1959 - 1998 Florence Griffith Joyner’s influence on culture is undeniable, she crossed ethical and racial boundaries earning her the nickname the Queen of Seoul after winning three gold medals and became the “the fastest woman on the planet.” ‘’FloJo’’ brought attention to herself not only with accomplishments on the track, but also with her dazzling racing attire, Mandarin-like fingernails, flashy rings, flowing hair and radiant smile. Her striking performance on the track captured the attention of the media and sports fans around the world redefining what it meant to be a woman in sports. Florence Joyner was an enormous influence on woman’s track and field but here success was dogged with speculation of drug abuse and cheating. Her tragically short life which ended at the age of 38 in 1998 due to asphyxiation brought on by an epileptic seizure and the preceding autopsy did little to disprove the doubters. Even so, Flojo inspired women to get into sport and her dedication and determination still pushes women around the world to succeed. Away from the track Florence Joyner also devoted much time too little league track teams and established the Florence Griffith Joyner Youth Foundation, a nonprofit making organisation to help disadvantaged youth.
128 LUXURY LIVING
RUTH BADER GINSBURG: 1933 – 2020 women to break gender barriers. Even after facing gender discrimination as she pursued her academic goals, Ginsburg forged ahead becoming the second woman--and first Jewish woman--to serve on the Supreme Court. Born and raised in a Jewish household in Brooklyn, New York, “the notorious RBG” graduated from Cornell University and Columbia Law School, only to be turned away from one job opportunity after the other, simply because she was a woman and, later, a mother. Ginsburg’s personal experience with gender discrimination informed her understanding of the words engraved above the highest court, “equal justice under law,” and fuelled her work to tackle unfair gender norms and discrimination. A fervent believer in standing up and speaking out against inequality, she was an essential jurist in some of the most pivotal legal cases in the nation’s history impacting the health and well-being of Americans. Ruth Bader Ginsburg spent her life fighting for women to be treated equally. In doing so, she became an inspiring role model for women and girls around the world.
129
LUXURY LIVING LIVING u
VIRGINIA WOOLF: 1882 – 1941 Considered one of the most important authors of the 20th century, Virginia Woolf was an outspoken advocate for women rights who was strongly anti-colonialist. At a time where speaking out as a feminist in a public position could be dangerous, she was an inspiration to creative women everywhere. Perhaps best known as the author of Mrs Dalloway (1925) and To the Lighthouse (1927), she was also a prolific writer of essays, diaries, letters and biographies. Besides her writing, Woolf had a considerable impact on the cultural life around her. The publishing house she ran with her husband Leonard Woolf, the Hogarth Press, was originally established in Richmond and then in London’s Bloomsbury, an area after which the ‘Bloomsbury Set’ of artists, writers and intellectuals is named. Woolf ’s house was a hub for some of the most interesting cultural activity of the time, and Hogarth Press publications included books by writers such as T S Eliot, Sigmund Freud, Katherine Mansfield, E M Forster, and the Woolfs themselves.
130 LUXURY LIVING
GRETA THUNBERG: 2003 – Present Greta Thunberg a Swedish environmental activist who held strikes in front of the Swedish Parliament to bring the attention of the world leaders towards Climate Change Has become the internationally-recognized personification of the pressing need for immediate and effective action against climate change. Her protests began in 2015 while she was still in school, gaining popularity across social media with the hashtag #FridaysForFuture, as she skipped school every Friday to hold her strikes by 2018, more than 20,000 students had joined her in protest from the US, UK, Japan, and Belgium. In 2019 she was invited to attend the UN Climate Conference in New York, refusing to fly due to the environmental impact of the aircraft she travelled from Sweden to New York via yacht sailing for over two weeks her actions resulted in her being named Time Magazine’s Person of the Year in 2019, making her the youngest person to hold the title. Today, millions of students around the world continue to be inspired by her strikes, with Greta receiving support from climate activists, scientists, world leaders and the Pope.
131
132 LUXURY LIVING
LUXURY LIVING LIVING u
Who will be the next
Mr Bond? We have waited patiently for over a year to watch the 25th instalment of the James Bond franchise “No Time to Die” with numerous release dates coming and going but one thing is certain this outing will be beefy Daniel Craig’s final as the suave and rugged 007
LUXURY LIVING LIVING u
HENRY CAVILL Many fans would be aghast if an American claims the coveted role of Bond but if there was one who could fill the shoes of previous Bonds then “Superman” Henry Cavill fits the bill. With broad shoulders a square jaw and blue eyes, Cavill is classically handsome and proves he can carry the role think “The man from U.N.C.L.E.” Back in 2005, Cavill auditioned for the role, aged 22 reaching the final two before Craig edged him out, so sixteen years later, could this be second time lucky?
TOM HARDY Bookies & housewives favourite Tom Hardy has been tipped by Ladbrookes as the front runner following unconfirmed reports of his casting in September last year. The English actor certainly has the brooding look, the magnetism and the maverick streak in spades and he gets the women swooning however Tom does relish in taking on villainous roles, think “The Dark Knight”, “Legend” and “Broson,” but with an endorsement from fellow Bond star Pierce Brosnan “I think Tom Hardy could be a good Bond. I’d be happy to see him do it.” Who would disagree!
LUXURY LIVING LIVING u
CILLIAN MURPHY Peaky Blinders front man Cillian Murphy has the rugged Irish good looks and cheeky glint in those dreamy blue eyes that Bond fans have come to expect. As an actor he’s shown his talent and ability to transform himself into what a character requires think Jonathan Crane in Batman Begins, Fischer in Inception and Tommy Shelby in Peaky Blinders where he has shown that he’s more than capable of playing a cold, methodical, resourceful, charming and brutally violent character, as well as a ladies man which is a necessity for anyone playing Bond!
IDRIS ELBA From The Wire to Luther, Pacific Rim and Thor, Idris Elba is the perfect fit for Bond: tall, ridiculously handsome, magnetic and sharp in a suit. Sadly at 48, time may have passed him by but with spades of charisma and a huge fan base Idris would indeed make for a distinguished 007. Not to mention the fact that he’d make history as the first black actor to play the spy.
LUXURY LIVING LIVING u
Quite and moody with chiselled good looks James Norton is another contender high on the bookie lists and with a spate of BBC thrillers in the last few years this has certainly helped raise the British actor’s profile. The quintessential English gentleman Norton’s got both a classic Bond’s suaveness and Craig’s rough charisma, his most recent starring role in “McMafia” brought him to the attention of many Bond fans proving he’s certainly got the ‘wearing of a suit’ and ‘waving of a gun’ aspects of the role down to a tee and with a lower profile than that of other contenders this may play into his hands.
MIA
MONTEGRAPPA.COM
LUXURY LIVING LIVING u
LONDON REMAINS AN INTERNATIONAL
POWERHOUSE
142 LUXURY LIVING
No other city can adapt to change quite as quickly as London
143
LUXURY LIVING LIVING u
in his prime the poet William Wordsworth
stood on Westminster Bridge and marvelled at this city. “Earth has not anything to show more
fair,” he wrote. “Ships, towers, domes, theatres, and temples lie, open to the fields and to the
sky”. Two hundred years later the dazzling vision he gazed upon is brighter than ever. London is Europe’s richest city. The home of bank-
ing. The tech centre. and London’s position as
number one means it attracts elite talent from across the globe. Progressively, the more London outclasses rivals, the stronger it becomes.
a glance at the skyline tells the story. almost
a hundred brand new skyscrapers puncture the
horizon, up three-fold on the previous year. Londoners love to give these buildings catchy
names: The Gherkin, The Cheesegrater, and The Walkie Talkie. Soon The Trellis will rise to be-
come Europe’s second tallest building behind its neighbour, The Shard. Below ground, the new Crossrail 2 underground trainline is Europe’s biggest ever infrastructure project.
Companies in London also scale faster than
anywhere in Europe. a good guide is the list
of unicorns the city can boast. There are more unicorns in London than France, Germany and italy put together. There are incubators, accelerators, and co-working spaces to help start-ups climb the first rung of the ladder. as companies
grow, vCs and private equity investors are ready to inject capital to propel them skyward. Lon-
don is the fourth most invested city in the world for tech – as of 2019 – and companies in Lon-
don thrive with the network and support levels that this accolade brings with it.
ZEDRa a global provider of active Wealth, Global Expansion and Fund Services recently
published a report explaining why beyond 2021 and despite of Brexit and the Coronavirus pan-
demic London has all the attributes to become the epicentre of the world trade.
144 LUXURY LIVING
LONDON SUPPORTS SUCCESS Whatever stage of the business journey your organisation is embarking on, you can be best positioned to succeed in London FROm iDEa TO FiRST SaLE Got an idea for a company? The city is dotted with more than 200 accelerators and incubators to nurture fragile concepts into reality. There is CyLon, for cyber security. For engineers there
is the Enterprise Hub at the Royal academy of Engineering, offering grant funding. and
of course, the Barclays accelerator which offers entrepreneurs unprecedented support in the world of finance and fintech. Schemes are constantly launching. ENTHUSiaSTiC iNvESTORS
Great ideas need sympathetic investors. Here London excels. The city is teeming with early stage investors. There are at least 17 angel networks where start-ups can find investment. SPiN-OUTS FROm aCaDEmia Great ideas used to stay locked up in research labs. Not anymore. The UK is a pioneer at commercialising great ideas.
145
LUXURY LIVING LIVING u
FiNTECH ECOSYSTEm PaCKS a PUNCH
London’s fintech scene continues to flourish, as the city’s innovative culture helps starts-ups and incumbents succeed Fintech is London’s trump card. it’s where the financial might of the City collides with the tech skills of the universities and private sector. The result is the world’s leading venue for fintech. across the city, every financial activity
is being disrupted by fintechs. insurance, wealth management, personal investing, lending, payments... it’s all up for
grabs and all being changed by London-based firms. in fact, between 2014 and 2018 London’s fintech sector received
more than five times the investment of any other European city.7 That’s more venture capital than Paris, Frankfurt, Berlin and amsterdam combined.
a key reason is the regulator’s ability to both invigilate, and foster innovation. The Financial Conduct authority runs
a sandbox – an experimental environment to test new ideas. To date more than 700 companies have been helped, accelerating time to market by 40 per cent. according to a survey of more than 2,000 people at the height of the
coronavirus pandemic, 66% of people were regularly using financial technology between march and July 2020 – this is an increase of over 50% compared to 2019’s usage figures. Naturally, the rest of the world will one day enjoy the same benefits. But right now, it’s Londoners who get to enjoy the products they helped to develop.
146 LUXURY LIVING
OPEN BaNKiNG DRiviNG FiNaNCiaL iNNOvaTiON
Open Banking has been in force for almost three years and is catalysing major changes in UK finance and fintech a new force is blasting through the European financial system. Open Banking is forcing traditional
banks to share customer data (with permission) with third-party service providers therefore changing the landscape of finance, and London is at the forefront.
Open Banking is making the UK attractive to american companies. Plaid, a San Fran-
cisco fintech company focussed on financial infrastructure, has opened a London office to
serve its European expansion. Zach Perret, co-founder and chief executive of the company, has previously described the impact open
banking has had on banks and fintechs as a “sea change”. 10 Plaid’s software helps to con-
nect more than 15,000 US banks. Now European fintech companies can use Plaid’s service to connect to UK bank accounts.
it’s still early days for Open Banking, and the
opportunities are still being explored. most
recently Google has become the latest firm to move into banking by offering smart cur-
rent accounts. Ultimately, it is this proximity, the laws, language and unique time zone that truly set London apart as the fintech capital of the world.
147
LUXURY LIVING LIVING u
THE WORLD’S CaPiTaL CiTY
It’s not hard to see why organisations are choosing to set up a holding company in London for their international operations. The city provides practical reasons to call it home First and foremost London is the gateway to the rest of the world with excellent transport links to Europe and asia. Organisations with a growing presence outside of North america often experience complications that come from having to operate in multiple different countries. Consolidating that presence in London is easier than it would be anywhere else. There are many practical reasons that a company might decide to locate a holding company in the UK’s capital. aside from the low corporate tax rate and the ability to exempt dividends from taxable income, a
London based holding company will benefit from over 130 tax treaties with other countries, reducing the impact of withholding taxes and other barriers to cross-border trade.
as well as a pragmatic attitude to taxation, the UK also has a depth and substance that means international businesses can adapt to the changing global market, customer demands and new laws with relative ease. it is simply possible to Do more. achieve more. and with better people than anywhere else.
148 LUXURY LIVING
vaLUE OF CREaTivE CaPiTaL
Despite its excellence in fintech, London’s rich cultural diversity means it is equally a leader in the creative industries it’s hardly unusual for a city to be bustling with creative spirits. The boulevards of Paris are teeming
with portrait artists, and Dublin pubs throng with poets. London? it’s the place where creativity pays. vFX Today the big earner is visual effects for the movie industry. Framestore is the biggest name in the
city. Founded in 1986, the company hit the jackpot with the Harry Potter films, starting with the Philosopher’s Stone. Today Framestore employs 2,400 staff and has won 14 Emmys, and an academy award for best visual effects in The Golden Compass.
LUXURY LIVING LIVING u
aDLaND advertising is huge in London, with players like Bombora and amobee making waves in the city. in 2018 the
capital won more Cannes Lions (Europe’s top awards for advertising) than any other European country. around 140,000 work in advertising in the London. The new frontier is digital advertising. The UK was the first country to spend more on digital than traditional ad media.
PLaYSTaTiONS aND PCS Computer games are another booming industry. There are 634 computer games companies in the capital, such as
Curve Digital led by the man responsible for Lara Croft Tomb Raider, and 22 Cans whose games regularly feature in the apple app Store’s top games of the year. Behind the success is the conveyor belt of talent coming out of universities. London has six focussed on gaming, plus the Digital Schoolhouse, a specialist programme for children supported by Nintendo, PlayStation, and Sega. Top talent starts young in London. To read the full report visit: www.zedra.com
56
THE WORLDWIDE PROPERTY BIBLE
www.samsung.com PERFECT HOMES INTERNATIONAL MAGAZINE
57
LUXURY LIVING LIVING u
A TOKEN SALE Christie’s once again leads the way with its first blockchain-backed digital-only artwork auction
LUXURY LIVING LIVING u
On 1 May 2007, Mike Winkelmann, aka the digital artist Beeple, posted a new work of art online. He did
the same thing the next day and the next, and the next one after that, creating and posting a brand-new digital picture or ‘everyday’ as he called it, every single day for 13-and-a-half years. Now those individual
pieces have been brought together in EVERYDAYS: THE FIRST 5000 DAYS, a unique work in the history of digital art.
Minted exclusively for Christie’s, the monumental digital collage was recently sold as a single lot for $69
million . Marking two industry firsts, Christie’s was the first major auction house to offer a purely digital
work with a unique NFT (Non-fungible token) - effectively a guarantee of its authenticity - and to accept cryptocurrency, in this case Ethereum, in addition to standard forms of payment for the singular lot.
Christie’s has never offered a new media artwork of this scale or importance before,’ says Noah Davis, specialist in Post-War & Contemporary Art at Christie’s in New York. ‘Acquiring Beeple’s work is a unique opportunity to own an entry in the blockchain itself created by one of the world’s leading digital artists.’ FROM SIMPLE DRAWINGS TO LIFE IN 3D Consumers of internet culture will already be familiar with the South Carolina-based graphic designer and
motion artist known as Beeple. His visionary and often irreverent digital pictures have propelled him to the top of the digital art world, winning him 1.8 million followers on Instagram and high-profile collaborations with global brands ranging from Louis Vuitton to Nike, as well as performing artists from Katy Perry to Childish Gambino.
In EVERYDAYS: THE FIRST 5000 DAYS, the artist has stitched together recurring themes and colour schemes into an aesthetic whole. The individual pieces are organised in loose chronological order: zoom-
ing in reveals pictures by turn abstract, fantastical, grotesque or absurd, deeply personal or representative of current events. Recurring themes include society’s obsession with and fear of technology; the desire for and resentment of wealth; and America’s recent political turbulence. SO WHAT ARE NFTS? NFT artworks are becoming a serious business. Last year, Beeple made US$3.5 million on an NFT auction. But the entry of a global blue-chip auction house like Christie’s into this domain may mark a new stage for
blockchain technology, as a widespread tool for both maintenance and transformation of digital art markets. NFTs support claims to an artwork’s value. While the JPEG file of Everydays may be copied, the collector’s blockchain-based record of ownership will allow them to display the work (and to resell it) on a number of online platforms.
Christie’s has teamed up with one such platform, Makersplace, for the deal. Makersplace uses an open standard smart contract for its NFTs, which means the work can be sold in many other places in the the
increasingly complex NFT ecosystem. NFTs are useful in the digital art market because they enable claims to authenticity and scarcity, despite the ease with which digital works can ordinarily be copied. Artists and
galleries have tried to create scarcity via limited-edition works and to assure authenticity with certificates, but NFTs seek to automate this process.
NFTs record ownership on a blockchain, which is a decentralised alternative to a central database. Built
through cryptography and peer-to-peer networks, blockchains are resistant to tampering and hacking, which
makes them useful for storing important records. Vince Tabora from US tech website Hacker Noon has
written an accessible explainer of how blockchain is different from older ways of storing and organising data.
WHY BLOCKCHAIN? Ever since blockchains were described in the white paper published by pseudonymous
Bitcoin inventor Satoshi Nakamoto in 2008, the idea of a “trustless” way to keep secure
public records has evolved into a so-called “confidence machine”, fuelling a considerable amount of hype.
And Christie’s is no stranger to new technology. The company has hosted regular Art+Tech Summits since 2018 (the inaugural topic being blockchain). In 2018, Christie’s proudly
announced it was “the first auction house to offer a work of art created by an algorithm”, with the sale of the AI-generated painting Portrait of Edmond Belamy for more than 40
times its estimate. So by selling Everydays as “the first purely digital work” to be offered by a major auction house, Christie’s is reinforcing its self-described “position at the forefront of innovation in the art world”.
VIRTUAL TRADING CARDS AND CRYPTOKITTIES At the same time, Christie’s auction was only the tip of the NFT-collecting iceberg. In-
dustry publication Coindesk estimates the total value of the NFT market to be US$250 million. Platforms such as Opensea, Nifty Gateway and SuperRare host a rapidly expanding range of digital collectibles to buy and sell by a growing community of collectors.
Beyond art, digital collectibles include virtual trading cards, artefacts and attire for virtual gaming worlds. They also underpin games such as CryptoKitties, in which NFTs serve to
secure the “unique genome” of each kitty in the game. These examples reflect the uptake of
NFTs across different digital subcultures, providing collectors with claims to uniqueness that were previously considered impossible in the online realm.
Rémy deMartin COGNAC GRANDE CHAMPAGNE
THINK A CENTURY AHEAD
www.LOUISXIII-cognac.com
LUXURY LIVING LIVING u
Indulge Yourself
A guide to everything that should be on your radar to purchase right now
LUXURY LIVING LIVING u
160 LUXURY LIVING
LEGOS TWO-IN-ONE LEGO PORSCHE 911 TURBO AND 911 TARGA SET REVEALED
As one of the most coveted nameplates in automotive history, the new two-in-one set includes the Por-
sche 911 Turbo and 911 Targa so Lego builders and classic car enthusiasts alike have the option to build either the fixed roof 911 Turbo model or the open-roofed 911 Targa.
Channelling the essence of the ubiquitous German sports car, the Lego Porsche 911 Turbo and 911 Targa variants feature all the hallmarks of their namesakes, from the aerodynamic shoulder line to angled
headlamps and sculpted bonnet with Porsche badge and rear-mounted flat six ‘boxer’ engine. Beneath their elegant silhouettes, the Lego Porsche 911 Turbo and 911 Targa variants also hide a wealth of detail. On both versions of the model, the 2+2 sports seats and dashboard are finished in dark orange
and nougat, an eclectic colour scheme based on contemporary upholstery options from the Porsche 911. Further interior details include a handbrake, gearshift and functional steering, while the front seats also tilt forward for access to the rear bench seats.
Several features which are unique to the 911 Turbo and 911 Targa variants of the set ensure they are equally characterful but distinct when built. The Lego Porsche 911 Turbo sports distinctive Turbo badg-
ing, a wide rear axle, turbocharger and intercooler, denoting its blistering performance credentials. Its athletic look is completed with an integrated rear spoiler. Meanwhile, the Lego Porsche 911 Targa’s roof
is fully removable and can be stowed underneath the hood of the car. The iconic Targa Bar completes the look, along with Targa badging and a brick-built wraparound rear window.
To celebrate the launch of the Lego Porsche 911 Turbo and 911 Targa two in one set, Lego is also offering the first buyers the chance to receive a limited-edition Lego Porsche owners pack with their pur-
chase. The pack contains a certificate of ownership, an official Lego Porsche card wallet and a set of four
unique art prints based on contemporary Porsche 911 adverts, all presented in a smart collector’s wallet. This highly collectible gift with purchase is available in limited numbers for orders of the set placed through the Lego VIP loyalty program.
For more information visit: www.lego.com 161
LUXURY LIVING LIVING u
THIS LIMITED EDITION BOTTLE OF CHAMPAGNE COMES COMPLETE WITH A
BULGARI SERPENTI NECKLACE Bvlgari announces “Bulgari Serpenti x
Dom Perignon Rose” Limited Edition. A fascinating collaboration between two stylish Maison’s
Born from the encounter of two Maisons invited by a common sense of values and vision, and embodied by each
creator. Lucia Silvestri, Bvlgari’s jewelery creative director, and Vincent Chaperon, Dom Pérignon’s chief brewer. The
creation of the Bvlgari Serpenti x Dom Pérignon Limited
Edition Rosé 2004 comes as no surprise, given their
common values and vision. The full-bodied ease of the 2004 vintage is a sophisticated wine for both novices and connoisseurs alike.
The bottle comes nestled inside a wooden case, which opens to reveal a custom interior lined in Bulgari’s
signature saffron colour and deep fuchsia. A bespoke rose gold Bulgari Serpenti necklace sits sensuously around
a magnum bottle of Dom Pérignon x Bvlgari Limited Edition Vintage Rosé 2004.
The “Serpenti” necklace comes with a case of three
Magnum bottles from “Dom Pérignon x Bvlgari
Limited Edition Vintage Rose 2004”. Each is engraved with a Bulgari Serpenti pattern, which encourages an
unparalleled uplifting feeling of enjoying champagne. The “Bulgari Serpenti x Dom Pérignon Rose” Limited Edition will be available in limited editions from 2021 in four cities: London, Milan, Paris and Tokyo.
For more information visit: www.bulgari.com 162 LUXURY LIVING
LUXURY LIVING LIVING u
THIS 165” FOLDABLE TV DISAPPEARS AT THE FLICK OF A BUTTON
Folding high-resolution MicroLED screens are here - the luxury TV revolution is on Folding screen pioneer C SEED leads the way with its latest C Seed M1, the world’s first 165” folding 4k MicroLED TV that fully hides under the ground when not in use. At the push of a button, the floor
opens and within seconds, a sleek column of machined aluminium
rises silently from the ground, unfolding a 165” screen of impressive size and settles down smoothly to provide you with an overwhelming entertainment experience. Understatement is the art of impressing without visible effort. C SEED M1 is the essence of elegance.
Folding screen pioneer C SEED leads the way with its latest C Seed M1, the world’s first 165” folding 4k MicroLED TV that fully hides under the ground when not in use. At the push of a button, the floor
opens and within seconds, a sleek column of machined aluminium rises silently from the ground, unfolding a 165 inch screen of impressive
size and settles down smoothly to provide you with an overwhelming entertainment experience. Understatement is the art of impressing without visible effort. C SEED M1 is the essence of elegance. For more information visit: www.cseed.tv
164 LUXURY LIVING
165
LUXURY LIVING LIVING u
THE VULCANO ERUPTION Condega Serie S Special Edition Volcanes Masaya bursts into the international premium cigar market with the strength of the volcano
Enjoy the volcanic essence of the finest Nicaraguan tobacco with the new Condega
Serie S Special Edition Volcanes Masaya. Names after one of the most powerful volcanoes in Nicaragua the new Serie S Edicion Especial Masaya represents the strength, smoke, flames of this powerful volcano with and explosion of flavour.
Created with 100% Nicaraguan tobacco grown in the fertile soils of Jalapa, Condega
and Estelí with only the best leaves are used for the blend. The tobacco is aged for three years resulting in a medium / full bodied cigar. Its blend finds a perfect balance between sweet and spices with distinct notes of pepper, nuts and a variety of sweets from chocolate to sugar cane, malt and black liquorice.
166 LUXURY LIVING
ThERE ARE SEVERAL VITOLAS AVAILABLE, FIVE TO BE PRECISE: - 4×60 Mini Titan - 5×52 Robusto
- 6×52 Magnum, - 6×60 Titan
- 6×56 Epicure. All come in elegant matte black wooden boxes in boxes of 20 cigars except for the Epicure and Titan which come in a coffin of 10.
This is not the first time that Condega Cigars pays tribute to the volcanoes that
make the Nicaraguan soil so nutrient-rich. The previous Serie S Edicion Especial paid tribute to the Momotombo Volcano. The blend of the Condega Serie S Edicion
Especial Masaya starts with a Sungrown Corojo wrapper around a Corojo binder. The
filler consists of Corojo and Criollo 98. It is a limited edition, yet Condega did not reveal how many boxes of each size are produced.
For more information visit: www.condegacigar.com
167
LUXURY LIVING LIVING u
MEET THE EXQUISITE PERFUME COLLECTION BY
Benigna Parfums, whose heart and focus has been dedicated to using the rarest and most expensive ingredients combined with superior craftsmanship, recently launched The Floral Trio At a glance the stellar list of ingredients in Benigna Parfums, showcases some of the most precious and elusive ingredients on earth, such as Bulgarian Rose, Ambergris, Musk, Oud and Orris . Interestingly, many of them have to be aged from 2 to 5 years to produce only 2 kilos (4.4 pounds) of fragranced oil.
These wonderful notes and ingredients can be seen in the following Youtube video, where the master perfumer, Cecile
Zarokian, talks in detail about the process of producing the Benigna Parfums fragrances. In the film she refers to the Bulgarian rose, its cost, and the quantity of 10,000 pounds of rose petals that are needed to distill only one pound of the
highly coveted rose oil. As a result of its rarity and the difficulty of harvesting it, to make only 1 kg of rose oil you will need about 4 tons of rose petals, hand-picked at dawn. She explains that 200 roses are needed to make 1kg of petals!
Ambergris and Orris are two of the most expensive perfume ingredients today, and the Oud value is estimated to be 1.5 times the value of gold, and is why it is often referred to as “liquid gold”. Orris butter is another of the most costly ingre-
dients in perfumery, around 20 000 €/k . The roots of Orris have a very long aging process of about 3 years, and a drying process of 3 or more years, which sums up to at least 6 years total. With those statistics, it is easy to understand why the exquisite perfumes are so expensive. The masterfully-crafted scents are specifically curated to cater to those who are
seeking something truly unique, superior in quality, and leave it to the wearer to create their own personal, intimate story.
168 LUXURY LIVING
The new-age movie - “Impossibility Nonexistent” @Impossibilitynonexistent, where a strong heroine makes her debut in action-packed sequences, is set to arrive in movie theaters and stream online in the near future. The film, which features well-known actors, is a must-see for everyone!
Additionally, the creative process behind this screenplay has touched on a few trending topics that we feel need to be showcased on-screen. One important aspect is that we created a role for a woman of color as the main character, and which also goes against pre-established stereotypes in action movies where primarily males have been leading characters.
For more information visit: www.benignaparfums.com
169
LUXURY LIVING LIVING u
EXTRAORDINARY JOURNEYS START YOUNG WITH
BENTLEY TRIKES Bentley Motors unveils innovative design that can transform from stroller to tricycle to suit children of all ages from 12 months and above - adaptable and highly functional, it supports six different stages in your toddler’s development Parents are often left wondering why their most practical baby accessories can’t be stylish too. The answer comes in the form of the Bentley Trike, which combines elegance with functionality through a highly adaptable design that transforms throughout a child’s early years. Bentley design elements render the product unique and exciting, both to fans of the brand and those looking for something unique. Favourite exterior paint colours from the real Bentley Motors palette can be chosen, so you can match your car to your trike. Little ones and parents alike will be excited both for the big adventures, as well as for their regular walks and school-runs.
u
Babies from 12 months and up can sit in parent-controlled mode with the seat switching from rear to forward facing at a touch of a button. As an infant continues to grow, footrests can be adjusted and eventually removed to make space for use of the pedals. Once toddlers can pedal by themselves, the push-bar can be discarded to allow freedom, while safety guards remain in place. Older toddlers can give pedalling a go without back support and harness, allowing their confidence to grow and grow in tricycle mode.
170 LUXURY LIVING
A luxurious aesthetic option for parents looking to keep their child safe and comfortable, while giving them room to learn over the course of their early years. The available trike colours mimic genuine paint colours from the array of exterior paint options available to customers of Bentley cars. The Bentley Trike is now available to buy via The Bentley Collection, and Bentley Retailers Bentley Trike – priced from £395
171
WWW.DORYAINTERIORS.COM
172 LUXURY LIVING
INT ERIO RS
173
LUXURY LIVING LIVING u
174 LUXURY LIVING
Davidoff Winston Churchill Through the day into the night - a man and a cigar for all times Davidoff Cigars continues its successful campaign for the Davidoff Winston Churchill collection and releases a limited edition Toro cigar honouring the Commander character facet of history’s most iconic cigar aficionado 175
LUXURY LIVING LIVING u
For seven consecutive years since the relaunch in 2014, the davidoff Winston Churchill brand has seen unprecedented success in global markets. The impressive performance of the brand platform “Cigars of Character” with its two lines «The original
Collection» and «The Late Hour» has inspired cigar aficionados worldwide to countless moments of indulgence. davidoff is proud of providing time so beautifully filled to its loyal consumers.
“Sir Winston Churchill was an exceptional man whose personality had so very many facets of brilliant talents, from statesman
to commander, from author to painter – a unique character of its time. usually, these personalities transform into mere history
book figures, but not Sir Winston Churchill who still today is one of the most renowned and appraised public figures of the 20th century,” says edward Simon, Cmo at oettinger davidoff ag. “at davidoff we are humbled and excited to bringing
to life the many dimensions and stories of this incredible leader, artist and writer while Sir Winston keeps carrying such deep inspiration to the world of today.”
The davidoff Winston Churchill range offers a cigar, which is perfect for any moment, day or night. milder and creamier daytime blends within «The original Collection» and more robust creations for when the lights go down within «The Late
Hour» line of cigars. The campaign will continue to focus on telling the many stories that occurred during the great man’s life at day and night always with a cigar in hand. in 2021 the character facet highlighted in the communication is Sir Winston Churchill’s personality as a commander.
176 LUXURY LIVING
Limited edition toro Cigar The davidoff master Blenders have mastered the challenge of blending a cigar offering complexity and signature davidoff
balance as multi-faceted as the great aficionado’s character. The new Limited edition cigar is the perfect combination between «The original Collection» and «The Late Hour». The multi-origin blend combines the creamy, caramel sweetness of «The original Collection» with the earthy and nutty nature of «The Late Hour». This medium to full-bodied limited edition delivers the perfect combination of these complex flavours in an elegant toro format.
Wrapped in a beautiful shiny ecuador wrapper this toro format cigar has been crafted into a 52x6’ format and provides up to 70 minutes of «time Beautifully Filled». notes of dry fruits and spices please the aficionado’s palate
when lighting the cigar, while notes of leather and cream develop. Hints of nuts and cacao come forward towards the last third
of the cigar all the while never lacking davidoff ’s signature sophistication in taste and complexity. a delightful taste experience inspired by Sir Winston’s rich character and moments in life when time was of the essence.
Limited to 11’100 boxes, the Winston Churchill Limited edition 2021 toro is packaged in a box of ten cigars each adorned with the iconic silhouette of the great leader and reflecting his extraordinary ability as a commander in the subtle checkboard scheme imprinted on the sides of the box.
Limited edition aCCeSSorieS along with the limited edition cigars, davidoff is revealing a set of limited edition accessories in line with this year’s theme of the limited edition – Sir Winston Churchill’s role as a commander. The stylish dark grey coloured accessory set consisting of an ashtray and a double jet flame table lighter carry the limited edition chessboard design theme and is available only in very limited quantities. a Winston Churchill silhouette discretely adorns both items. LaunCH & avaiLaBiLity From February 2021*, the davidoff Winston Churchill Limited edition 2021 cigars and accessories will be available at select davidoff appointed merchants, premium cigar retailers and Flagship Stores.
177
178 LUXURY LIVING
IVING
FOOD & DRINK Exploring the culture of taste and the pleasures of conviviality. Dining reviews some of the world’s finest restaurants, chefs and wines.
179
LUXURY LIVING FOOD & DRINK u
CONNECTING TEXAS AND KENTUCKY
IN THE BEST POSSIBLE WAY! Following in the footsteps of fellow actor Ryan Reynolds, Matthew McConaughey continues his journey as Creative Director at the legendary Wild Turkey Distiller with his Wild Turkey Longbranch
180 LUXURY LIVING
Movie fans will know that McConaughey is a keen bourbon drinker, so when Wild Turkey approached McConaughey to be a spokesman for their brand in 2016 to take on a position similar to that with Lincoln Motor Company it was a match made in bourbon heaven with McConaughey harbouring a wider vision. Determined to be more than a celebrity spokesman, McConoughey had an idea to create a bourbon that perfectly suited his taste so approached father and son Master Distilling team Jimmy and Eddie Russell with his ideas.
181
LUXURY LIVING FOOD & DRINK u
McConaughey was initially drawn to the Wild Turkey brand through his innate connection to Jimmy and Eddie Russell, the father and son Master Distiller team for the iconic bourbon brand, due to their conviction, unapologetic commitment to their craft, and history of doing things the right way, with over 100 years of combined experience and inspired by McConaughey’s Kentucky and Texas roots, McConaughey and Russell spent countless hours sharing notes, then, after two years of testing, perfected a proprietary process that combines two separate charcoal filtration methods to give Longbranch a smooth and full finish. The first filtration process uses charcoal made from American White Oak and the second uses charcoal made from Texas Mesquite wood, giving the bourbon notes of smoky sweetness and a real Texan twist. McConaughey says. “Bourbon is special for Southerners and everyone knows the best bourbon is made in Kentucky, because of Kentucky river water. And now we’re taking it to Texas.” Made with eight-year-old Wild Turkey Bourbon, Wild Turkey Longbranch is an exceptional bourbon with a bright gold colour and aroma that is a balanced blend of vanilla and spices. Flavours of caramel, pear, and hints of citrus round out the palate. The subtle, smoky finish is buttery smooth, with notes of gentle pepper and toasted oak. “When we were creating Wild Turkey Longbranch, we talked at length about how to make a product that represents elements of both Texas and Kentucky,” said Wild Turkey Master Distiller Eddie Russell. “Our goal was to make a straight bourbon whiskey with a soft sweetness that was still unmistakably Wild Turkey. At 86-proof it doesn’t quite pack the same punch, for better or worse, that you’d get from Wild Turkey 101, it’s more an entry level bourbon for those long afternoons on the porch on a summers day or an all-day swigger!
182 LUXURY LIVING
Since its launch McConaughey has directed both the brand’s first creative campaign with the release of the Wild Turkey global advertising campaign and the latest “Wonder What If ” digital campaign which taps into the power of wonderment and curiosity by inviting audiences to join Matthew as he questions what is and dares to think about what can be. Both optimistic and clever, the theme is a true testament to the authenticity of this campaign and aims to inspire, challenge conventional thinking, and ignite exploration. The self-directed video spot features McConaughey sitting in a field with nothing but Longbranch in his hand and a mind free to wander and ponder life’s great questions. He invites viewers to join him on the journey, contending that the curious spirit may not always produce a straight path, but will bring you on a worthwhile journey to an interesting destination.
183
184 LUXURY LIVING
185
LUXURY LIVING FOOD & DRINK u
The Craft Irish Whiskey Co Debuts
$2mIllION EmERalD IslE COllECtION The Craft Irish Whiskey Co. collaborates with Fabergé to launch this limited-edition “Emerald Isle” collectable whiskey set 186 LUXURY LIVING
Following the launch of The Devil’s Keep in November 2020, The Craft Irish Whiskey Co. has debuted its second release, The Emerald Isle Collection in partnership with Fabergé, a seven-piece custom-made whiskey set which celebrates the ‘Seven Wonders of Ireland’. Beautifully presented in a dark walnut experience box, each set features a unique Fabergé Celtic Egg objet and bespoke Altruist watch, along with two bottles of extremely rare, 30-year-old, triple distilled Irish whiskey. The 30-year old single malt Irish whisky has been aged in 200-litre “first fill” American oak casks, previously storing Bourbon, and then finished in a rare single 40-litre Pedro Ximénez sherry barrel. The profile ranges from fudge and maple syrup on the nose to sweet leather and a silky ripe banana on the palate, with a long finish with hints of meringue and rich vanilla cigar smoke.
‘The Emerald Isle Collection’ is the oldest triple distilled Irish whiskey in the world and fuses Faberge’s unique heritage with rich Irish tradition and mythology’ 187
LUXURY LIVING FOOD & DRINK u
Accompanying each bottle of whiskey is a bespoke Fabergé Celtic Egg objet, handcrafted by fourth-generation Fabergé enamel workmaster, Dr. Marcus Mohr. Each egg is crafted from 18k yellow gold and features Fabergé’s legendary guilloché enamel in a pastel green; the green, white and gold colours of the egg symbolise the Irish flag.
Each of the seven unique Fabergé eggs is set with a pavé diamond Celtic knot, framing a coloured gemstone at its centre. Each one also features a different gemstone on its exterior: Gemfields Zambian emerald, blue sapphire, Gemfields Mozambican ruby, amethyst, rhodolite, spessartite or tourmaline, representing each of the seven Irish locations. A matching cabochon coloured gemstone is also set on top of the egg, which itself is mounted on a beautiful hand-carved and polished rock crystal plinth with gold base. In true Fabergé spirit, a surprise awaits inside in the form of a rough, uncut Zambian emerald responsibly sourced from Gemfields and presented on a gold guilloché base with an intricate claw setting. Emeralds are believed to symbolise hope, growth and fresh starts – which befits the current challenging times.
In addition, each edition of ‘The Emerald Isle’ features a bespoke one-of-a-kind Fabergé Altruist 18k rose gold watch with a self-winding movement from Vaucher Manufacture. Each piece has a unique dial, inspired by the landscape of one of the ‘Seven Wonders of Ireland’. Handcrafted by Fabergé’s workmaster André Martinez, a specialist in decorating watch dials, the white mother of pearl face has been skilfully etched and hand-painted with 24k rose gold. The crystal case backs on each piece are dedicated to The Craft Irish Whiskey Co. and feature their logo. The watch is finished with a brown alligator strap, which complements the design perfectly. For more information visit: www.craftirishwhiskey.com
188 LUXURY LIVING
189
LUXURY LIVING FOOD & DRINK u
190 LUXURY LIVING
TEQUILA ON THE ROCK!
Dwayne Johnson is a man of many talents from action man to family man to fitness fanatic, philanthropist and now tequila entrepreneur ...Yes the Rock has launched his own brand of tequila
191
LUXURY LIVING FOOD & DRINK u
Launched in 2020 Teremana Small Batch Tequila, which loosely translates to ‘spirit of the earth’, is a 100% Blue Weber agave Tequila crafted amidst the highest peaks of the Jalisco Highland mountains in Mexico and after just one year of trading, the hard working entrepreneurial actor has set a record selling nearly 300,000 9-liter cases during its first year despite launching during a worldwide pandemic, putting this into context, Casamigos, which George Clooney eventually soldfor $1 billion, sold 175,000 cases in the first year. For those who follow “The Rock” on Instagram will know that Johnson is a BIG tequila fan and has long dreamed of launching his own tequila brand and unlike other celebrity-led brands this is more than just a name attached to a bottle. Over the past few years he’s been intimately involved in the curation of the project working closely with a multi-generational distilling family who collectively have gone through 113 distillations before finally reaching the perfect blend that embodies passion, positivity, hard work and fun. In an Instagram Johnson wrote “The goal is to create a tequila that is the best of quality and taste, but done the right way – by hand. This blessing is truly a dream come true—but it’s just the beginning and there’s much work to be done. I’m committed with my team to bring you the best tequila, because quality and legacy are what matter most” creating a “Tequila of the People.”
192 LUXURY LIVING
In creating Teremana Tequila it has also given Johnson the opportunity to get in touch with his heritage and cultural roots. Johnson has a Samoan mother and was raised in New Zealand and Hawaii. This is where the very name of ‘Teremana’ comes into play with ‘tere’ translating to the Earth while ‘mana’ means spirit. He’s also kept the brand close to his roots by not allowing it to become an overlyexpensive luxury item, instead, offering quality taste at an affordable price. Speaking with Forbes Johnson said “When we first launched our Teremana brand, many said that I was crazy to deliver such a high quality tequila at such an affordable price, but to me the most important ‘P word’ in my business isn’t profit - it’s people. And that’s why Teremana, will always be the tequila of the people,” he said. The line currently consists of two versions Blanco and Reposado, both are 80%proof, low-calorie, zero-sugar, zero-carbs and gluten free the perfect go-to spirit for the healthy jetset which is right up Johnson’s street who travels with his own portable “Iron Paradise” gym Other A-listers who have developed bankable alcoholic brands include George Clooney, Ryan Reynolds, and John Legend. Of course, the actor and former wrestling star isn’t the first celebrity to launch a tequila brand: actor and friend of Johnson’s George Clooney owns Casamigos, which sold to Diageo for $1 billion.
193
Our masterpieces, require a master.
194 LUXURY LIVING
The difference is Gaggenau. Create your masterpiece with ours. Then new combi-steam ovens and oven range open up a world that is waiting to be mastered. Evert Gaggenau is distinctively designed, crafted from exceptional Materials, offers professional performance and has done so since 1683. Master steam: Gaggenau.com
195
LUXURY LIVING FOOD & DRINK u
Gourmet News
196 LUXURY LIVING
QUEEN LAUNCHES LIMITED EDITION GIN Her majesty Queen Elizabeth is known to enjoy a gin and Dubonnet cocktail and now the Queen can have her pick of palace gins, as a third royal gin has been launched, made with hand-picked rose petals from her official residence in Northern Ireland.
Hillsborough Castle and Gardens, which is located just outside Belfast, has teamed up with local distillery Rademon Estate to create a version of their award-winning Shortcross Gin aptly titled Hillsborough Castle and Gardens Shortcross. The limited edition botanical gin features rose petals handpicked from the Queen’s Granville Rose Garden at Hillsborough Castle. Blended with apples and pears foraged from the 18th century Walled Garden, the final recipe is reminiscent of summer rose gardens with a long, sweet citrus and smooth oily finish.
Priced at just £40.00 only 400 bottles of the spirit will be made with the spirit is said to have a long, sweet citrus taste and smooth, oily finish. For more information visit: www.royalcollectionshop.co.uk
197
LUXURY LIVING FOOD & DRINK u
JAY Z SELL’S 50% OF HIS CHAMPAGNE BRAND TO LVMH Moët Hennessey, the wine and spirits division of the luxury conglomerate LVMH, has acquired a 50% stake in Armand de Brignac, the high-end Champagne brand owned by Rapper and mogul, Jay-Z The brand one of the youngest in the famed sparkling wine region commonly known by its nickname “Ace of Spades,” due to
its striking logo has seen rapid growth and popularity since the rapper invested in the brand in 2006, after featuring it in his
“Show Me What You Got” music video before taking full control in 2014 after buying Sovereign Brands’s stake in the company.
“For years we have been following the fantastic success of Armand de Brignac and admiring their ability to challenge some of the rules
of the Champagne category. Often referred to as “Ace of Spades”, Armand de Brignac breaks barriers and reflects contemporary luxury, while preserving the traditions of the Champagne terroirs. Today, we are incredibly proud to be partnering with them and believe that the combination of our Champagne experience and international network coupled with Shawn JAY-Z Carter’s vision, the strength of the
Armand de Brignac brand and quality of its range of prestige cuvées will allow us to take the business to new heights across the world”, says Philippe Schaus, President & CEO of Moët Hennessy.
The partnership comes at a time when LVMH is working to appeal to a more diverse clientele and expand it’s celebrity endorsement.
The partnership will be anchored in the acquisition of a 50% stake in Armand de Brignac by Moët Hennessy as well as in a
global distribution agreement. The 50%-50% structure is an essential element of this alliance and ensures that each of the two partners wants to bring its strengths and expertise to ensure the success of this long-term alliance. Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed. 198 LUXURY LIVING
199
LUXURY LIVING FOOD & DRINK u
VERA WANG CO CREATE’S
LIMITED EDITION LUXURY VO D K A Chopin Vodka, the world’s first luxury vodka, and iconic designer Vera Wang, have joined forces to create a limited-edition – Vera Wang x Chopin Hand-crafted from farm to bottle, Vera Wang personally
selected a special variety of young potato for Vera Wang x Chopin that has never been on the market. The potatoes used for the product are sustainably grown and sourced with-
out chemicals or pesticides in the village of Krzesk, Poland, where the Chopin Vodka distillery is located. The resulting
product is naturally gluten-free and has distinct taste, aroma, complexity and character; it is unlike any other product available to date.
Wang admits vodka has always been her spirit of choice but
has discovered so much about its subtleties over the past two years while co-creating her own. She is grateful to have
learned about the vodka process from Tad Dorda, founder and CEO of Chopin Vodka, whom she refers to as the ‘Master of Vodka.’ She adds that she, “will never ever look at a potato the same way again.”
During the creative process, Wang was determined to retain the Chopin bottle’s iconic shape, with a modern, architectural, and sophisticated iteration for the Vera Wang fashion/ lifestyle brand that is guaranteed to stand out on any bar.
From the matte bi-color bottle to her personal messaging, she describes this project as being an “amazing journey.” The poem on the back of the bottle is an “ode” to Wang’s unique
and highly personal relationship with vodka: how it makes
her feel, the memories it evokes, and the emotion, sensuality, and romance vodka represents to her.
The limited-edition collaboration is via: www.VeraWangChopin.com
200 LUXURY LIVING
201
LUXURY LIVING FOOD & DRINK u
ITALIAN STYLE
STEPS ONTO THE PODIUM For three years – starting with the 2021 season - the Italian sparkling wine par excellence will celebrate the victories of the great champions of Formula 1, with a Jeroboam of Ferrari Trentodoc
Formula 1 has chosen Ferrari Trento as its official partner not only because it is one of the world’s most award-winning wineries, but also due to its long and prestigious history. The Italian family-owned winery based in Trentino, in the Italian Alps, is a global leader in its field, crafting its luxury Trentodoc wines for over a century to become known as Italy’s sparkling wine par excellence. In the words of Stefano Domenicali, President and CEO of Formula 1®: “Celebrating success is part and parcel of both our DNAs and Ferrari Trento, which has always been present at the most important moments in sport, is the ideal partner for us. For more than a century Ferrari Trento has been synonymous with Italian excellence: it has created, thanks to its passion and skill, sparkling wines of great elegance that have the ability to enhance any occasion”. For more information visit: www.ferraritrento.com
202 LUXURY LIVING
203
LUXURY LIVING FOOD & DRINK u
HAIG CLUB PARTNERS WITH CONTEMPORARY ARTIST REMI ROUGH FOR
NEW LIMITED EDITION
Haig Club has unveiled a new limited-edition bottle, David Beckham’s Scotch whisky brand has partnered with London based contemporary artist Remi Rough to add a splash of colour to 2021
Known for his use of bold colours and geometric shapes in his novel take on graffiti, Remi’s work is instantly recognisable and can be found across the streets of London and far beyond to Paris and New York.
Paying homage to his London roots, Remi adds a vibrant splash of his signature pink shade to Haig Club’s iconic blue bottle. Remi Rough, Global Artist said: “I love surprising people with intense colour and this design for the Haig Club bottle is
no exception. Art is for everyone and people need colour in their lives more than ever right now. I hope the collaboration continues to show how art can be enjoyed no matter the size or type of canvas.”
Ciara Keenan, Global Head of Haig Club said: “We’re delighted to begin a new year of collaborations with the immensely
talented global artist Remi Rough. His dedication to making the art world feel more accessible aligns perfectly with our ethos that whisky can be enjoyed by everyone. Remi’s original bottle follows a string of artist collabs with D*Face and Bradley Theodore and it’s not set to end there with Haig Club.”
204 LUXURY LIVING
David Beckham, Haig Club Brand Partner said: “It’s great to see another artist showcase their style and creativity
on our Haig Club bottles. Remi Rough embodies everything we believe in at Haig Club by making his own rules and leaning into the unexpected. The sharp lines and the colour pallet are beautiful and I’m enjoying seeing our art collection bottles come to life.
The new limited edition is available exclusively on HaigClub.com however sadly it has already sold out!
205
206 LUXURY LIVING
207
LUXURY LIVING FOOD & DRINK u
208 LUXURY LIVING
THE CHEF WHO BROUGHT
A FRENCH TWIST TO THE CITY Albert Roux founder of Britain’s first Michelin starred restaurant La Gavroche and mentor to many of Britain’s best-known chef ’s leaves behind a legacy unlike any other
209
LUXURY LIVING FOOD & DRINK u
Born in France in 1935, Albert Roux who sadly died in January of this year is a chef fondly remembered by many as a true titan of the kitchen. Roux and his brother Michel Roux, who sadly passed away last year, opened Le Gavroche in 1967 bringing Parisian style fine dining to the capital serving classic dishes which remained on the menu for over 50-years . The restaurant, become the first British restaurant to be awarded not one or two but three Michelin stars. Born in the region of Saone et Loire in France in 1935, Roux began training as an apprentice patisserie aged 14 before taking up a number of kitchen posts. After serving in the military in Algeria, Roux worked as sous chef at the British Embassy in Paris, where he spent two years before leaving for the UK which at the time London was not known for sophisticated gastronomy. Having worked within the private sector, the Roux brothers were uncompromising in their approach, only the best quality and service would do, every dish was cooked to order and the ingredients had to be perfect unlike other restaurateurs who would skip on certain aspects to save money and increase profits. The Roux brother’s dishes such as the soufflé suissesse and omelette Rothschild, made with oranges and Cointreau, may not have been ground-breaking but it was the excellence of which these dishes were prepared and served which afforded the brothers their Michelin stars, stars they retained for more than a decade.
210 LUXURY LIVING
In 1972 the Roux brothers branched out further buying the Waterside Inn, a traditional English country pub in the village of Bray on the bank of the River Thames in Berkshire, west of London transforming it into a chic restaurant and cocktail bar this would later be ran by Alain and his son while Albert and his son Michel remained in charge of La Gavroche. Aside from bring French cuisines to the streets of London Albert Roux also launched a training program aimed at detecting local talents and acclaimed chefs such as Gordon Ramsay, Marco Pierre White and Marcus Wareing all passed through the kitchen. Today, Michel Roux Jr continues to run Le Gavroche preserving the highest standards: standards for which it has always been justly famous. Michel Roux Jr’s style is “modern French”, or classical French cooking with a lighter and less rich approach, and subtly influenced by Mediterranean and Asian flavours and ingredients. 211
212 LUXURY LIVING
LUXURY LIVING FOOD & DRINK u
RIESLING’s
RISE What to Know About This Great White Wine
Christie’s wine expert Chris Munro explains the bold, bright appeal of an under-appreciated German wine that doesn’t skimp on character ..
213
LUXURY LIVING FOOD & DRINK u
First mentioned in the cellar log of Count Katzenelnbogen at Rüsselsheim in 1435, Riesling was the dominant grape variety in Germany until the early 20th century. It has resurged over the
past 100 years and is now seen as a true noble variety and a treasured part of German vinous life. Internationally the wines of Germany’s two leading regions, Rheingau and Mosel, have had checkered histories. Throughout the 19th century the wines were revered and commanded exceptionally high prices, in many instances eclipsing the prices achieved for the first growths of
Bordeaux. Favoured by the royalty of Europe, Hock, a British term for white wine produced in Germany, appeared at Christie’s auctions throughout the 19th century.
During the 1970s and ’80s the approach of the German wine industry was to make commercially
attractive brands in bulk, such as Blue Nun and Black Tower. Of course, the great producers continued to make some fantastic wine and were blessed by superb vintages - 1971 and 1976 in
particular. Snap them up if you see them at auction. I regularly come across cellars in the United States that include rare gems from great producers such as J.J. Prüm and Egon Müller.
Today the world of German Riesling is populated by emerging, young producers. Look out for
names such as Dönnhoff, Weingut Keller, Von Schubert, and Fritz Haag - this really is the golden age of German winemaking.
214 LUXURY LIVING
Riesling Elsewhere in the World U.S.A. The United States ranks second to only to Germany in terms of Riesling vines planted and the long growing seasons in Washington, Oregon, and California produce beautifully balanced spe-
cialties that have resulted in commercial success. Delicate varieties can also be found in Michigan and the Finger Lakes region of New York, as hardy Riesling vines are capable of withstanding these areas’ frigid winters and create dry, complex wines as a result. AUSTRALIA
Surprisingly, for a grape that thrives in cooler conditions, modern versions of Riesling are being
produced to great effect in Australia. The varietal can mainly be found in two areas. Clare Valley, near Adelaide, has a warmer climate but a large discrepancy in day- and night-time temperatures, ideal for giving the grapes their trademark acidity. Eden Valley in the east is cooler and is home to some of the world’s oldest vines—grown from cuttings that were taken from the Rheingau in
1837. Both are known for a bold, bright Riesling that also develops well in bottle (although for not quite as long as the German variation). Article provided courtesy of Christies Luxury Defined
215
LUXURY LIVING FOOD & DRINK u
scHneiDer riesling, 2015 leitZ eins Zwei Dry riesling 3, 2015 The Leitz Eins Zwei Dry Riesling 3 is a fantastic German Riesling. The wine is smooth and easy to drink, with a mediumbody and notes of citrus and spice. This Riesling is a bit on the drier side, but won’t disappoint too heavily for those who prefer a sweeter wine.
From the vineyards in the former garden of the Friedelsheimer Schloss castle in Pfalz, Germany. This 2015 Schneider Riesling begins with an enticing aroma full of fresh, ripe peach, green apple and a little tropical fruit. The wine tastes delicious with a lovely mouthfeel, lively acidity and just a touch of effervescence. It is full of fresh fruit flavors similar to the nose. It gives the impression of being slightly sweet but I’m guessing the residual sugar content is not very high. Very refreshing and with good balance, this is good stuff and quite food friendly too.
Riesling is BACK
One of the favourite grapes of the true wine connoisseur,Riesling is a rather amazing variety that can range from sweet to dry, from simple to complex and from young to age-worthy.
Here we showcase our top 10 selection: Domaine ZinDHumbrecHt riesling, 2015 The Domaine Zind-Humbrecht Riesling is another top option in the category that will traditionally cost just over $20. This wine comes from the Alsace region in France. The Riesling is sweet with a crisp finish. It comes with a hint of grapefruit and pineapple with a minerality undertone. This Riesling is another fantastic, affordable wine that will wow your dinner guests. 216 LUXURY LIVING
eDen trail e D e n Va l l e y riesling, 2016 The Eden Trail Eden Valley Riesling comes to us from Eden Valley in South Australia with tasting notes of green apple and citrus aromas. You will also get floral hints with this one. This Riesling, like most from the area, is on the drier side of the spectrum.
eroica riesling, 2013 The Eroica Riesling is another wine from Washington but gives you the sense of the German Riesling it was based on. You smell some spice and citrus and taste the rich, crisp sweetness that the region is known for. The wine tastes excellent with a wonderful tart acidity offsetting the sweetness and a smooth, round and lively mouthfeel. This one is a perfect match with spicy Asian or Indian food. It ends off-dry with a very long, mouthwatering finish of tart fruit. A mouthwatering symphony of textures and flavours.
a m a l aya b r u t n at u r e 80% Riesling and 20% Torrontés sparkling wine from vineyards at 1,800 meters above sea level in Valle de Cafayete, Calchaqui Valley, Salta, Argentina. This wine tastes crisp and clean and offers a great change of pace for sparkling wine lovers with its unusual mix of grapes. Just lightly sweet, it has plenty of fine, refreshing bubbles and good acidity to balance things out.
nik weis st urbans HoF e s tat e r i e s l i n g , 2 0 1 8
c H at e au ste micHelle riesling, 2014 This one comes from Washington State - the Columbia Valley to be exact packed with notes of peach and lime, along with moderate acidity that helps to cut some of the sweetness of the Riesling.
100% Riesling from 30 to 70 year-old vines in the estate vineyards in Leiwen and Wiltingen in Mosel, Germany. An enticing aroma of lemon, apple, a touch of tropical fruit, wet stone plus a little petrol. Nicely sweet (off-dry), the fruit turns a bit more towards grapefruit in the mouth but is balanced with a good amount of minerality. Tart acidity leads into the long, lingering, lip-smacking finish of sweet and juicy fruit. Excellent!
carl graFF graacHer HimmelreicH r i e s l i n g s pat l e s e , 2 0 1 8
A true German wine. The Carl Graff Graacher Himmelreich illuminates with a light gold colour and aromas of peach, ginger and jasmine and a palate cleansing crisp acidity that deftly balances the bright fruit. The acidity helps balance things a bit, but it’s still something that leans toward the much sweeter end of the spectrum.
blue FisH original riesling The 2018 Blue Fish Riesling opens with a pleasing aroma of lemon, lime, peach, perfumed floral notes and maybe just a hint of petrol. Tasting reveals flavors of apricot, peach and apple plus lively acidity and even a bit of minerality in this quite refreshing wine. The fruit turns tropical on the medium length, mostly dry finish. This is a basic but very good Riesling at a great price. 100% Riesling from Pfalz, Germany. The wine has 8.6 g/L of residual sugar and is vegan friendly – A good catch! 217
LUXURY LIVING FOOD & DRINK u
PUTTING THE VA VA VOOM BACK INTO
VODKA! The new Vavoom Vodka is certainly a bottle not to be hidden at the back of the cupboard!
218 LUXURY LIVING
After years of development and product design, liquor entrepreneur Luke Battiloro introduces his muchanticipated premium spirit, Vavoom Vodka, to the US market. The vodka company’s exciting entry comes on the heels of founder Battiloro’s determined campaign to develop a unique vodka packaged in an artistic, beautiful glass. Vavoom’s signature glass is handcrafted in Milan, Italy and evokes the figure of a beautiful, young woman stretching skyward. Battiloro knows the unique, artisan packaging is an indispensable part of his brand’s appeal. “We wanted to give this new generation of consumers a Vodka to call their own” Underneath the hand-crafted signature glass bottle, customers will find a highend premium spirit. Vavoom is a 100% gluten-free, vodka distilled five times and delicately finished three times and to encapsulate the themes evoked by the vodka’s elaborate distillation process and elegant packaging, Vavoom’s motto encourages customers to Stai Bella, as the Italians say-- or, in English, “stay beautiful.” At each step in the design and distilling process, Vavoom Vodka aims to bring to life its Italian influences and benchmark values of beauty and art. Additionally, through doing so, Vavoom hopes this product can do more than just satisfy as a spirit, but also empower women around the world to live their lives to their fullest.
Battiloro knows this novel brand experience can capture something that other high-end brands don’t -including something for a younger demographic. “We wanted to give this new generation of consumers a Vodka to call their own,” he said. “People want something new. Not just an Ultra-Premium spirit, but something that evokes an emotional response. With our packaging and our branding, the focus was to bring Beauty, Style, and ultimately Empowerment to the masses. I think what we’ve created with Vavoom Vodka has done just that”. No stones has been left unturned in the preparation of Vavoom premium vodka. In addition to the elaborate distillation and finishing process, Vavoom is run through a coconut activated carbon filter in a proprietary process leveraging the superior filtering qualities of coconut. Exchanging iron ions with sodium ions creates an exquisite reverse osmosis system that works to produce a world-class vodka with a smooth, luxury taste. The extensive distilling helps soften the flavour and create silky smooth aftertaste. This special coconut activated carbon filtering provides a top-notch finished product. There is science backing this up. The carbon activated from coconut shells boasts mostly pores in what is known as the “micropore range.” Just about all of the surface areas of coconut shell activated carbon is in this range. These tiny pores are perfectly sized to trap and filter out the contaminant molecules in water. This stands in contrast to other vodkas which use peat and wood activated carbon filtering instead. These methods create “meso” and “macro” pores which can only trap bigger molecules. This leads to smaller contaminant molecules getting into the final product. This process is not only great at filtering out impurities. Coconut is also a totally renewable resource. Coconuts are constantly growing with several seasonal harvest periods, making Vavoom’s coconut activated carbon filtering process an environmentally responsible and sustainable practice. The smooth top shelf vodka has thus far proved a hit with spirit-lovers. Customers adore both the artistic and eye-catching Italian glass and the smooth taste of the vodka itself, making it a wonderful drink for parties and impressing guests, but it is also the perfect piece for those with a taste for premium high-end vodka. Unlike some other brands, it is not as easy to find Vavoom at a local liquor store. Instead, the brand is focused on pushing out the product through other channels, namely high-end clubs and restaurants, in addition to other targeted markets. Like just about every other aspect of this brand, from product quality to packaging, this is by intention. Vavoom works tirelessly to create and maintain its exclusive, special brand identity. “We don’t want to be just another brand, we thrive on exclusivity and instant brand awareness at the most exciting places around the world,” says Battiloro. “Our bottle is instantly recognizable, and people will know they’re in the right place for an incredible night when they find us on the top shelf ” But if you really want to give this vodka a place in your liquor cabinet, you can get it delivered through Vavoom’s website. The company delivers to US customers via FedEx at the price of $169.99 per bottle. 219
220 LUXURY LIVING
IVING
POWER Sponsored by
2
FAST BEAUTIFUL .com
Fast and fabulous, Power exudes everything one aspires from a luxurious life. Fast cars, fast yachts and private jets, what more could one ask for!
221
LUXURY LIVING POWER u
THE BUGATTI BOLIDE IS THE MOST EXTREME HYPER SPORTS CAR OF MODERN TIMES Incomparably fast, light and extreme. The Bugatti Bolide unveiled in October 2020 once again pushes the boundaries of what is physically possible. Never before has Bugatti designed such an uncompromising vehicle, focused solely on the race track. 222 LUXURY LIVING
223
LUXURY LIVING POWER u
u
Bugatti’s design ethos ‘Form follows performance’ for the Bugatti Bolide, the new hyper sports car that answers one of the great ‘what if ?’ questions. What if Bugatti built a radically light vehicle around its iconic 8.0-litre W16 engine without any limitation as regards the weight-to-power ratio. The result is the most extreme, uncompromising, fastest and lightest vehicle concept in Bugatti’s modern era, with Molsheim’s famed W16 engine producing 1,850PS˚ and delivering performance akin to a Formula 1 car. Its top speed is well above 500 km/h without any compromises in maximum handling and maximum agility.
The selection of materials and production processes used with the Bolide represent a bold step forward for what is currently feasible and what will be possible in the future in hyper sports car design. A worldwide innovation is the morphable outer skin of the intake scoop on the roof, which provides active airflow optimisation. If the vehicle is driven at a slow speed, the surface of the scoop remains smooth. In contrast, a field of bubbles bulges out when driven at fast speeds. This reduces the aerodynamic drag of the scoop by 10 percent and ensures a 17 percent reduction in lift forces. The dramatic effect of the overall proportions is made clear with an overall height of only 995 millimetres – the same as an historic Bugatti Type 35. The appearance of the Bugatti Bolide invokes the so-called X-planes of aviation history and shows a clear X signature from every perspective. This also heralds back to Bugatti’s track-bred heritage, with the X signature present on the front of the Bolide representing the taped ‘X’ that historic racing cars would use to cover headlights, preventing the spread of glass in the event of an accident. But these themes are consistent and contribute towards the overall dynamics and performance of the Bolide, which is unrivalled. 224 LUXURY LIVING
The Bugatti team developed a light monocoque made of carbon around the drive. The integral front end joined to it is also made of high-strength carbon fibres, as are the fully aerodynamically effective underbody and the monocoque itself. The single-fibre tensile strength of the fibres used is 6,750 newtons per square millimetre, the single-fibre stiffness is 350,000 newtons per square millimetre. These represent figures that are only reached in the aerospace industry. Instead of water-to-air intercooling, the Bugatti Bolide has air-to-air intercooling with water pre-cooling for optimal performance on the racetrack. The two water coolers, which are arranged in front of the front axle, provide a more effective radiator system in terms of flow than is customary even in Formula 1. Newly developed and hybrid carbon titanium turbofan radial compressors ventilate and cool the high-performance ceramic racing brake system. Driving the BoliDe is like riDing on a cannonBall! The Bolide is unique in terms of its technical elements, too: Bugatti has created a radically light vehicle around the iconic 8.0-litre W16 engine with an output of 1,850 PS and 1,850 newton-metres of torque. The monocoque chassis is made of light, high-strength carbon fibre, while all screw and connecting components are made of titanium. What is more, hollow, thin-walled functional components made of an aerospace titanium alloy are used at numerous points. In the simulation, the Bolide almost reaches Formula 1 figures with a top speed of well over 500 km/h – though without sacrificing maximum handling and agility. The Bolide takes 3:07.1 minutes to complete a lap of Le Mans and 5:23.1 minutes to get round the Nürburgring Nordschleife. Most recently the Bugatti BoliDe was officially voteD the Most Beautiful anD aesthetic hyper sports car in the worlD. “We are extraordinarily proud that the Festival Automobile International judges were as enthusiastic about the design of the Bugatti Bolide as Bugatti fans all around the world. The experiment to demonstrate the brute force of our W16 engine in a lightweight and high-performance car has resulted in a driving experience akin to riding on a cannonball. My thanks goes to the entire Bugatti team, who have once again demonstrated with this incredible car the full extent of their creativity and technological expertise,” says Stephan Winkelmann, President of Bugatti. “Our focus has always been on innovation and aesthetics from the very beginning. Receiving this award is an affirmation of our work.” 225
____________
Bradley Cooper and his Big Pilot’s Watch
as a tough, easy to read instrument to conquer the sky the
Editions “Le Petit Prince”. Ref. 5101: It’s true that old
Big Pilot’s Watch is dedicated to all those trailblazers who
ways rarely lead to new places. And that there are no
are in the know. Accurately equipped with an imposing 46
right or wrong turns because each of us must find our
mm case, luminous hands, the iconic Big Pilot crown and
own path, guided by our intuition. But above all, isn’t the
the oversized, IWC manufactured double pawl winding C.
ultimate goal of a journey more than just reaching your
52110 automatic movement with 7 days power reserve, it
destination? Because on the road, you might find some-
will always be a reliable companion on your journey.
thing even more valuable. Yourself. Originally conceived
IWC. ENGINEERED FOR MEN
IWC SCHAFFHAUSEN BOUTIQUES: AMSTERDAM . PARIS . LONDON . ROME . NEW YORK . BEIJING . DUBAI . HONG KONG . GENEVA . ZURICH IWC.COM
226 LUXURY LIVING
ENGINEERED FOR MEN WHO TAKE THE ROAD LESS TRAVELLED.
227
LUXURY LIVING POWER u
THE NEW GREEN YACHT CONCEPT THAT DOESN’T SCRIMP ON
Luxury
228 LUXURY LIVING
London based superyacht design studio Gresham Yacht Design has revealed a 120-metre superyacht concept named Emir which promises to pushes the boundaries inside and out with a design that celebrates signature styling cues, while displaying a development in its design approach. The motoryacht offers a stylish exterior containing large interior spaces to provide guests with a feeling of grandeur and elegance. All this has been matched with operational elements in mind to allow the crew to conduct duties without disturbing owner and guest areas. There are two certified helipads on board to ensure guests can come and go from Emir without impacting on the activities and plans of the owner. One of the key exterior features of the helipad above the owner’s private deck are the fold-up bulwarks either side of the helipad contained within the superstructure. This design feature provides security and safety once the aircraft has landed, ensuring a smooth and reassured transition from the helicopter into Emir’s interior. It also ensures that the styling of the profile is not compromised while offering an owner the ability to directly access their private deck. Aft of the helipad is a heli-lobby from which the owners and guests can access the saloons on the decks below. The grand owner’s saloon has a central seating area, with balconies leading off on either side. This space includes a dining area, bar and games table, all of which are finished in sycamore with deep blue accents on the bar and cabinets. The owner’s full-beam master suite is located forward of this saloon, which has a private exterior deck, Jacuzzi and uninterrupted views forward.
229
LUXURY LIVING POWER u
The real show stopper is one level below where guests get to enjoy and marvel at the double-height main saloon amidships. More appropriately described as a ballroom, with its high ceiling, internal walk-around balcony on the upper level and access to external balconies either side via sliding glass doors on the main deck. Pockets of intimate seating on the upper mezzanine level provide views over the main saloon while floor-to-ceiling angled windows ensure panoramic ocean scenes without reflections. These fullheight windows over two decks conjure an immense connection to the sea. While at the flick of a switch it can be made private thanks to the LCD switchable glass and blinds that extend from the floor or the ceiling as desired. Elegant staircases around glass elevators connect the two levels of the main saloon, ensuring unobstructed views into the space at all times. Forward of the main saloon on the mezzanine deck is the wheelhouse with ships offices. Formal dining for 36 guests is also located on this level with al fresco dining on the aft deck. When an owner and their guests are ready to move the party outside, the aft main deck is ready to entertain with the key exterior element being a cantilevered swimming pool that includes a glass window facing out to sea. This water feature is complemented with casual dining and exterior seating together with an enclosed aft lounge. Meanwhile the lower deck includes a generous beach club and wellness centre with gym and cinema. A full complement of tenders and toys are stowed within the tender garage to meet any and every water sport activity desired including a dive centre for scuba enthusiasts.
230 LUXURY LIVING
Emir also contains many features to reduce emissions and fully eliminate some. In effect there is a mini-power station on board to recycle and reuse the available waste. A bio digester eliminates organic waste and produces usable biodegradable nutrient filled soil together with natural gas. Emissions such as NOX and particulates are reduced by up to 90 per cent before they can be released. A waste water treatment centre is also employed to further reduce emissions. For more information visit: www.greshamyachtdesign.com
“Buy Land they aren’t making it anymore.” Mark Twain Go to londonpropertytimes.co.uk for all your latest property news and to view the latest edition
LUXURY LIVING POWER u
Maserati’s new MC20 the Brand’s first super sports car in decades
Maserati enters a new Era with MC20, the new super sports car that combines performance, sportiness and luxury in the unique Maserati style 233
LUXURY LIVING POWER u
The new MC20 (MC for Maserati Corse) is the Maserati everyone was waiting for. It is a car with incredible aerodynamic efficiency, which conceals a sporty soul, with the new Nettuno engine, a 630 horsepower V6 with torque of 730 Nm that delivers 0-100 km/h acceleration in under 2,9 seconds and a top speed over 325 km an hour. An engine that signals Maserati’s return to producing its own power units after a hiatus of more than 20 years. The MC20 is an extremely lightweight car under 1,500 kg (kerb weight), and thanks to its power output of 630 hp it comes out best in class in weight/power ratio, at just 2.33 kg/hp. This record is achieved through the use of choice quality materials, exploiting all the potentials of carbon fibre without any sacrifices with regard to comfort. Nettuno, the first engine in this new chapter of the Trident’s history, is the MC20’s twin turbo V6, a technologic gem already awarded an international patent, which puts the MTC (Maserati Twin Combustion) technology, the ground-breaking combustion system developed in-house, onto the world’s roads. Overall, this revolutionary project has resulted in a car that epitomises Italian excellence. In fact, MC20 was designed in Modena and will be built at the Viale Ciro Menotti plant, where the Trident’s models have been built for more than 80 years. The new production line, created in the spaces where the GranTurismo and GranCabrio models were assembled until November 2019, is now ready for action in the historic plant. The site also features a new paintshop incorporating innovative, environment-friendly technologies. Nettuno will also be built in Modena, at the newly established Maserati Engine Lab.
u
The MC20 design was produced in about 24 months, with the involvement from the outset, in an innovative approach, of a team of Maserati Innovation Lab engineers, technical specialists from the Maserati Engine Lab and designers from the Maserati Style Centre.
234 LUXURY LIVING
The Virtual Vehicle Dynamics Development system, which includes the use of one of the world’s most advanced dynamic simulators, was developed in-house by the Maserati Innovation Lab and is based on a complex mathematical model called Virtual Car. This method allowed performance of 97% of dynamic tests, optimising development times. The car was then fine-tuned in the best Maserati tradition with exhaustive track and road test-driving sessions in the most widely varying conditions of use. The guiding theme of the MC20’S design was the Brand’s historic identity, with all the elegance, performance and comfort integral to its genetic make-up. The focus on performance led to the conception of a car with a distinct personality, with unmistakable forms that render it unique. The butterfly doors are not only stunningly beautiful but also functional, as they improve the car’s ergonomics and enable optimal access to and from the cabin. The aerodynamics were designed through over two thousand man-hours in the Dallara Wind Tunnel and more than a thousand CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) simulations, which enabled the creation of a genuine work of art. The resulting car has a sleek line, with no mobile appendages but just a discreet rear spoiler that improves downforce without detracting from the MC20’s beauty. The CX is more under 0,38. The MC20 is designed to enable coupé and convertible versions and for full electric power.
235
LUXURY LIVING POWER u
Once inside the cabin, the driver is always central, and nothing must distract them from the sporting driving experience. Every component has a purpose, and is completely driver-oriented. Simple forms, very few sharp edges and minimal distractions. Two 10 inch screens: one for the cockpit and the other for the Maserati Touch Control Plus (MTC Plus MIA). Simplicity is also the keynote of the carbon fibre-clad central console, with just a few features: the wireless smartphone charger, the driving mode selector (GT, Wet, Sport, Corsa and a fifth, ESC Off, which deactivates the control functions), two speed selection buttons, the power window controls, the Multimedia System controls, and a handy storage compartment underneath the armrest. All the other controls are on the steering wheel, with the ignition button on the left and the launch control on the right. The new MC20 will be connected at all times with the Maserati Connect program. The full range of services includes connected navigation, Alexa and Wifi Hotspot and can also be managed through the Maserati Connect smartphone or smartwatch App. Most recently the MC20 was awarded the “most beautiful supercar of the year 2021” by the Festival Automobile International
236 LUXURY LIVING
237
Introducing the world’s most advanced car tracker. Created by a team with over 100 years combined experience in Britain’s most elite military and intelligence units.
238 LUXURY LIVING
Luxury vehicles and classic cars are always on the criminal’s shopping list. Often stolen to order, they are almost instantly sold on, meaning your prized asset could quickly be on its way out of the country never to be seen again. Manufacturer supplied trackers can be easily identified, defeated and quickly removed by experienced criminals. Valkyrie has the capability to provide specialist covert tracking equipment that is easily installed in a single vehicle or multi-vehicle collection, reports in daily and can be monitored from any internetenabled device. It is self-powered, quick and easy to install, adding immediate, state-of-the-art security protection to your prized possessions.
+44 (0) 20 7499 9323 security@valkyrie.co.uk sentinel www.valkyrie.co.uk 239
LUXURY LIVING POWER u
MEET CAVORITE X5 EVTOL
THE MEAN, GREEN FLYING MACHINE
Canadian start-up Horizon Aircraft’s new eVTOL the Cavorite X5 prototype is by far one of the most stunning eVTOLs released thus far who wouldn’t look out of place on the set of a Michael Bay movie 240 LUXURY LIVING
Named after the H.G Wells’ 1901 book The First Men in the Moon the Cavorite X5 started out as something completely different – a project to create a modern high-lift, hybrid-electric cargo version of the amphibious Republic RC-3 SeaBee sport plane. But father-and-son team Brian and Brandon Robinson quickly realized that adding a vertical lift system would make for a long-range, high-speed air taxi design that could offer a ton of operational flexibility. Featuring a hybrid power system the five seater flying machine can achieve cruise speeds of up to 350 km/h, traveling as far as 500 kilometers while carrying cargo or passengers or an impressive 1000 kilometers or 625 miles without but this is not your standard eVTOL, it has a patents-pending wing system, a fan-in-wing design, that promises “highly efficient operational flight” which when taking off and landing open up to reveal a hidden set of ducted fans that allow the craft to function as a 16-rotor, multicopter then once in forward flight, the wings close up and offer the same aerodynamic performance as any other plane. Currently the Cavorite X5 is still in concept stage, but Horizon is working on a 1:6 scale version to begin testing its systems and software, and plans to have a half-scale machine built in the next 12 months. If all goes to plan Horizon hopes to commence production in 2024 For more information visit: www.horizonaircraft.com/x5-aircraft 241
LUXURY LIVING POWER u
A SENSE OF HOME
by FM ARCHITETTURA M/y NJORD ANNOUNCES lEAD DESIgNER FM ARCHITETTURA At a length of 293 metres, mega-yacht NJORD is being hailed as the “world’s largest private residential yacht at sea” a private yacht like no other
LUXURY LIVING POWER u
Named after the Norse god of the sea and wind, and stretching across 12 decks the mammoth 293 metre vessel will contain 118 private residences available for purchase in 21 distinct configurations comprising two, three, four
and up to five bedrooms, ranging from 1,291 square feet up to 8,601 square feet. Some of the largest residences will be comprised of 14 duplex and two triplex residences with private elevators.
Recently Ocean Residences Development Ltd. appointed Italian design studio FM Architettura as lead interior
designer for M/Y NJORD. The appointment of award-winning architect and super-yacht designer Francesca
Muzio, co-founder of FM Architettura, affirms the dedication of M/Y NJORD to create a new language of luxury on board for their discerning residents.
Working closely with Espen Øino the primary naval architect for M/Y NJORD, responsible for the overall design of the super-yacht, FM Architettura will work to bring to life the residences of the most outstanding
specifications and finish, for an audience looking to move into a different kind of lifestyle and discover a home custom-designed in every detail
u
244 LUXURY LIVING
245
LUXURY LIVING POWER u
As Francesca explains: “We will design all of our furniture for this project, as with this type of yacht interior the proportions are vital, and the ratio of space to furniture must be perfect, as well as the balance of materials and the atmosphere
they create as a whole. Our clients are buying a home for life on board M/Y NJORD, and the centre of our inspiration
is always the individual person, their emotional relationship to their home, and their lifestyle. This sense of belonging, together with health, wellbeing and sustainability are the main focus of our designs. Technology is of course integrated into the designs and state-of-the-art facilities, but the true core pillars of FM’s interiors are the four classical elements.
“I like to consider these four elements in my designs: earth, air, fire and water. Earth to me is the use of wood in our
designs, be it in the bespoke furniture, flooring or structural partitions, and the air is the lightness around the interiors created by using handmade carpets and bespoke woven textiles which lead the eye around the space. The fire comes into
the accents with bespoke bronze furniture, glass or the lighting which we use to punctuate the rooms. And lastly: water. The all-important element, to ensure the flow and balance of the design comes together in its entirety, as these are homes which must have a sense of place.”
Francesca will personally oversee FM Architettura’s interiors in every detail. Their custom design will be the core
feature of the main common and public areas of the yacht from deck 04 to deck 09, in addition to a selection of the prestigious luxury residences.
246 LUXURY LIVING
A SENSE OF hOME bY FM ARchItEttuRA M/Y NJORD is home to a discerning community who share a passion for exploration, voyage and research, creating an intimate circle united by their desire to give back to the planet and share the result of their discoveries. FM Architettura strongly believes that as the facilitator of incredible experiences and travel to untouched and unseen places, M/Y NJORD must be considered a home for her residents: lived in for extended periods of time, each abode develops into a treasure trove of incomparable memories.
The charm and elegance of the interiors derives from the exquisite proportions and clarity
of design: pure architectural geometries, wide openings and breath-taking double heights, proposing an unprecedented spatial quality unseen on a private super-yacht.
About this important appointment, Jean-Louis Stutzmann, chief Design Architect, Ocean Residences Development Ltd says: “It is a great privilege to have Francesca and her team involved in this venture. FM is a world leader in interior design, and works with artisans
and craftsmen to make a project really come alive. They continually raise the bar in design and with Francesca’s wide experience she never ceases to surprise and delight.”
247
LUXURY LIVING POWER u
FM ARchItEttuRA | thE VISION “Each of our original designs is the result of a unique creative process that begins with exploring the client’s
personality, integrating their ideas and discovering their specific passion and lifestyle. Individuality and
aspirations are the basis of every project. The FM studio ethos is ‘I am my home’, says Francesca “Our vast experience, gained over the years in the world of luxury interiors, has granted us extensive knowledge of
the finest and most rare materials in the world. Thanks to our deep roots with the finest Italian craftsmen, and a lifetime of attention to detail we carefully weave together the richest aspects of design, creating the individual depth, soul, and personality for every space.”
248 LUXURY LIVING
The design and build of residences are like second nature to Francesca and her talented design team. Just a few of the current super-yacht projects have included the newly launched M/Y Zen 90 m. PJ-
816, in conjunction with Nauta Design, built by Feadship; M/Y Freedom 65m dream yacht, under development by Feadship and M/Y 55m PJ-704, built by Feadship.
Francesca has worked on a wide array of distinctive projects, not only in the yachting sphere, but also in the luxury hospitality and private residence sectors. A selection of their most acclaimed pro-
jects are M/Y 63m Polar Star, built by Lürssen; M/Y 63m superyacht Oasis, built by Lürssen, the latter winning boat International’s World Superyacht Awards 2020; the renowned Presidential and
Signature suites at the Shangri’La hotel at the Shard, London, and the private ‘hotel de charm’ holy Deer in Piazza Navona, Rome.
Francesca’s eclectic style, her design disciplines and her variety of projects have also led her to join
the prestigious panel of acclaimed international judges in the Dezeen Awards 2021, the ultimate accolade for architects and designers worldwide. For more: www.fm-arch.it
249
250 LUXURY LIVING
251
LUXURY LIVING POWER u
MCLAREN UNVEILS ALL-NEW, NEXTGENERATION HIGH-PERFORMANCE HYBRID SUPERCAR
THE MCLAREN ARTURA
The all-new McLaren Artura, marks the beginning of both a new chapter for the pioneering luxury supercar company and a new era in supercar technology and performance
252 LUXURY LIVING
253
LUXURY LIVING POWER u
McLaren’s first series-production High-Performance Hybrid supercar focuses more than half a century of the company’s racing and road-car experience and expertise into a nextgeneration supercar that blends ground-breaking technology with McLaren’s dedication to pure driver engagement. Underpinned by the McLaren philosophy of super-lightweight engineering, the all-new Artura is the distillation of every attribute inherent in a McLaren – distinctive design, unrivalled performance, dynamic excellence and engineering innovation – with electrification now bringing the additional benefits of even faster throttle response, lower emissions and being able to run in pure EV mode for emissions-free journeys of up to 30km*. All-new from the ground up, the Artura presented McLaren engineers and designers with new opportunities to innovate, chief among these being how to preserve McLaren’s superlightweight engineering philosophy when adding hybrid powertrain elements including an E-motor and battery pack. A demanding programme of weight reduction, encompassing every area of the Artura from the chassis platform – this is the debut of the new McLaren Carbon Lightweight Architecture (MCLA) – through the uniquely compact HPH powertrain system to the weight of cabling used in the electrical systems (where a 10% reduction was achieved), resulted in the Artura having a lightest dry weight of 1,395kg which is on par with comparable supercars that do not have hybrid powertrains, giving the Artura a super-lightweight advantage.
At the heart of the Artura’s powertrain is McLaren’s all-new, 2,993cc twinturbocharged V6 petrol engine. With a power output of 585PS – nearly 200 PS per litre – and 585Nm of torque, the dry-sump aluminium engine is compact and lightweight; at just 160kg it weighs 50kg less than a McLaren V8 and is significantly shorter, enhancing packaging efficiency. Designed to run with a Gasoline Particulate Filter to optimise emissions performance, the M630 engine is also extremely refined. The 120° v-angle of the engine, which allows the turbochargers to be positioned within the ‘hot vee’, delivers further advantages in packaging as well as contributing to a lower centre of gravity. The 120° layout increases engine performance by reducing the pressure losses through the exhaust system and allows for a stiffer crankshaft that enables a rev limit of 8,500rpm, maximising performance and driver engagement.
254 LUXURY LIVING
Working in harmony with the new V6 is the Artura’s compact axial flux E-motor, located within the transmission bell housing. Smaller and more power-dense than a conventional radial flux E-motor, it is capable of generating 95PS and 225Nm and boasts a power density per kilo 33% greater than the system used in the McLaren P1™. The instantaneous nature of the motor’s torque delivery – known as ‘torque infill’ – is key to the car’s razor-sharp throttle response. Exhilarating ‘off-the-line’ performance sees the Artura achieve 0-100km/h (0-62mph) in just 3.0 seconds with a top speed is limited to 330km/h (205mph). The Artura is designed with full Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) capability and can be charged to an 80% charge level in just 2.5 hours with a standard EVSE cable. The batteries can also harvest power from the combustion engine during driving, tailored to the driving mode selected. The E-motor is powered by a battery pack comprising five lithium-ion modules, offering a usable energy capacity of 7.4kWh and a pure EV range of 30km. The McLaren Artura is the first model to have the new McLaren Carbon Lightweight Architecture (MCLA) at its core. Designed and manufactured at the McLaren Composites Technology Centre (MCTC) in the Sheffield region, MCLA sets a new standard for McLaren’s advanced flexible chassis design. Optimised for high-performance hybrid applications, it includes a bespoke battery compartment and introduces a ground-breaking domain-based ethernet electrical architecture, along with an electrical heating, ventilation and air-conditioning (eHVAC) system. The ethernet architecture reduces cabling by up to 25% as well as speeding up data transmission. This also facilitates access to advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) including Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane-Departure Warning, Auto High-Beam Assist and Road-Sign Recognition as well as Over-The-Air (OTA) software updates. The engineering artistry beneath the Artura’s skin is complemented by its exterior design. The low-nose, cab-forward, high-tail stance is pure supercar, the drama underlined by the signature McLaren dihedral doors – which open closer to the body and house mirrors that fold in more tightly – and further enhanced by the short wheelbase and low stance.
255
LUXURY LIVING POWER u
The overall effect gives the Artura an almost ‘shrink-wrapped’ appearance, evolving a McLaren design approach seen in recent models to a new level. The lithe, technical sculpture has only minimal body shutlines and panel joints, assisted by features such as an entire rear clamshell engineered and superformed as one panel. The shape of the Artura, sculpted to optimise performance and manage airflow for aerodynamic performance and cooling, is driven by the McLaren design principle of ‘everything for a reason’ that is in evidence throughout the car. The centre of the front splitter is an example of this, being the intake for the eHVAC system and also housing the front-mounted radar that forms part of the optional ADAS package. Inside, the Artura is no less of a revolution, with the cockpit centred more than ever around the driver. The driving mode selection – which retains separate Powertrain and Handling controls – has been moved to the instrument binnacle, which is in turn mounted to the steering column and adjusts with the steering wheel to further enhance driving ergonomics. Consequently, the steering wheel is kept clear of unnecessary switches, however, the driver is still able to adjust driving modes without taking their hands away from the wheel. The driver can choose from four Powertrain modes, including an E-mode for 30km of emissions-free, electric-only driving. Designed for mixed driving conditions, Comfort mode maximises range and efficiency, with the combustion engine shut off under 40km/h with the use of an extended stop and start mode but phased in for greater speed and power requirements. In Sport and Track modes, electric power is deployed in an increasingly aggressive manner for low-end response and acceleration (‘torque infill’). Separate handling mode choices adjust damper firmness and the degree of Electronic Stability Control intervention to suit driver preference and weather and road conditions. At the outset McLaren designed the Artura to be not only a technological game-changer, but also to stay true to the core McLaren attributes of being incredibly engaging to drive and displaying the highest levels of dynamic ability. Designed to excel on both road and track, the Artura also boasts the dynamic refinement to make serene progress through urban streets in EV mode. Available to order now from McLaren retailers, with first deliveries to customers commencing in Q3 of this year, the Artura is priced in its home UK market from £185,500 for the standard specification. There are three further core specifications: Performance, which has a sporting, functional aesthetic; TechLux, where the focus is on the technical luxury that the name suggests; and Vision, which displays a more avant-garde and adventurous look and feel. Every McLaren Artura comes as standard with a five-year vehicle warranty, a six-year battery warranty and 10-year body warranty. For further information about the McLaren Artura visit: www.cars.mclaren.com 256 LUXURY LIVING
257
180 258 LUXURY LUXURY LIVING LIVING
181 259
LUXURY LIVING PoWeR u
Riva 76’ PeRseo suPeR
260 LUXURY LIVING
The best-loved Riva sport-fly of recent years proposes new aesthetic solutions combined with unprecedented design and functional features for an increasingly sporty, elegant and high-performance yacht
261
LUXURY LIVING POWER u
Improving a masterpiece with an incredible and long-lasting record of success is a challenge that only Riva can accept and win, thanks to an aesthetic and technological development effort that achieves a perfect balance of past, present and future. Riva 76’ Perseo Super is the exciting natural evolution of the 76’ Perseo, which in recent years has become one of the sport-fly yachts best loved by owners around the world. The result of collaboration between the Product Strategy Committee led by Mr. Piero Ferrari, designer Mauro Micheli - the founder of Officina Italiana Design with Sergio Beretta - and the Ferretti Group Engineering Department, she has a length overall of 23.25 metres (76 feet) and a maximum beam of 5.75 metres (18 feet). Riva 76’ Perseo has a sleek profile with over 40 square metres of glazed surfaces in the hull and superstructure. The exterior styling reprises and enhances the sporty look of the 76’ Perseo, with the introduction of new style elements.
Worthy of note is the mahogany and polished stainless steel detailing, a technical and design feature that forms part of the Sarnico-based shipyard’s legacy and pays tribute here to the Riva tradition. One of the main functional design features on this fantastic boat is the glass roof with an opening forward section positioned over the lounge, letting light and fresh air into the space below.
262 LUXURY LIVING
263
LUXURY LIVING POWER u
EXTERNAL AREAS The stern area is designed to offer comfort for guests and to be practical for the crew. Almost the entire swim platform can be lowered into the water, becoming an underwater surface to relax on and an aid to leaving the water safely. When the garage door is open and the swim platform lowered, launching and hauling up the tender (up to 3.25 metres) are quick and easy operations. On request, a second water toy can be installed on the swim platform and two seabobs in the garage on either side of the tender. The cockpit offers an area for socialising, with a sofa in the aft section and a dining table seating eight. On request, the entire area can be converted into a big sun pad with a mechanism that lowers the table so that it can be covered with cushions. The entire area is enhanced with solutions that increase the level of comfort on this yacht, like the option of fitting a drawer refrigerator under the sofa. On the left, under the stairs leading to the sun deck, is the entrance to the crew cabin on the lower deck. On request, a bar corner is available, with stools featuring mahogany and polished stainless steel detailing and a Corian counter top, complete with fridge, icemaker and sink. The spacious sun deck is integrated into the yacht’s aerodynamic lines, offering somewhere to relax in total privacy, plus a helm station to pilot the yacht from a privileged vantage point. The deck has a big central sun pad covering about 4 square metres, with a forward-facing sofa at its edge. The second centrally positioned helm station is forward and surrounded on both port and starboard sides by other sofas. The helm station has one 16-inch touchscreen in the standard version and two in the optional version. Here too, various solutions are available to increase your comfort, including an optional drawer refrigerator under the sofa next to the helm station. The bow area, on the other hand, is fitted out as a big lounge with a front-facing sofa that can be sheltered by a hood. A big sun pad at the tip of the bow rounds out the fittings in this private relaxation area. All mooring gear is hidden from view, in a solution designed not to detract from the yacht’s beautiful lines, without compromising on the practicality of technical manoeuvres and enhancing the ergonomics. A third lateral manoeuvring station is also available on request. 264 LUXURY LIVING
265
LUXURY LIVING POWER u
MAIN DECK The lounge is a big open space with a living area inside the glass entrance door, furnished with a sofa and a coffee table on the starboard side. The decor is rounded out by low furniture, an armchair and a pouffe. Further forward is the dining area seating eight, featuring an L-shaped sofa and an oak table with chairs by Arper. Forward on the starboard side and fitted with two Riva pilot seats is the helm station, equipped with integrated control, monitoring and navigation systems, plus three 16-inch touchscreens. A solution with three 19-inch touchscreens and a convenient and functional manoeuvring joystick is also available. The dominant wood for the standard version is a sand-coloured oak, matched with light and dark lacquer and polished stainless steel detailing. Rosewood is available on request as the featured wood. LOWER DECK The lower deck has a lounge furnished with a big L-shaped sofa. Opposite it, on the starboard side, is a fully appointed galley with a door, complete with appliances, a work top, a hob and a sink arranged along the hull sides and in the stern area. 76’ Perseo Super has a standard layout with three cabins, each with its own private bathroom. There is also the option of a fourth cabin, with two single beds and its own bathroom. The master cabin is in the centre of the boat, while the guest cabin furnished with single beds and a separate bathroom is on the starboard side, and the VIP cabin is in the bow, with a twin wardrobe and an en-suite bathroom with separate shower. The decor in the cabins reprises not only the dominant wood on the main deck, but also the chiaroscuro contrasts and the same precious materials. As always, there was a special focus on acoustic insulation in the cabins. All the forward and aft walls in the master suite have additional insulation to guarantee maximum comfort with regard to both other areas and the galley. The crew cabin, entered from the cockpit and communicating directly with the engine room, extends horizontally to include a bathroom and a night area with two bunk beds.
266 LUXURY LIVING
267
LUXURY LIVING POWER u
PROPULSION AND TECHNOLOGY The new Riva 76’ Perseo Super delivers excellent performance in line with all the other great success stories in the sport range. Fitted with two MAN V12 V-engines rated 1,550 MHP each, her top speed is 32 knots and her cruising speed 28 knots. The owner can also opt for a more powerful propulsion system featuring two MAN V12 engines rated 1,800 MHP each, in which case the top speed rises to 37 knots and the cruising speed to 32 knots. Riva 76’ Perseo Super is fitted with automatic Humphree dynamic trim interceptors, guaranteeing maximum simplicity of use and optimised fuel consumption. The optional AVENTICS manoeuvring joystick features docking mode functionality for easy handling in confined waters, such as when mooring alongside, with lateral movement obtained by the combined action of the main propellers and the proportional bow thruster. The first unit has already been sold and will sail with its owner during Summer 2021 For more information visit: www.riva-yacht.com
268 LUXURY LIVING
269 55
LUXURY LIVING POWER u
JAGUAR CLASSIC REVEALS E-TYPE 60 COLLECTION, A 60TH ANNIVERSARY TRIBUTE TO THE ICONIC SPORTS CAR On March 15th Jaguar celebrated the 60th anniversary of the iconic E-type, the car became an instant sensation from launch and is instantly recognised as a symbol of the Swinging Sixties
270 LUXURY LIVING
Jaguar Classic has unveiled its first matched pair of E-type 60 Collection cars, and revealed full specification details for the 12 expertly restored and sympathetically uprated 3.8-litre E-types built to celebrate 60 years of the iconic sports car.
271
LUXURY LIVING POWER u
The E-type made its world debut in Geneva, Switzerland on 15 March 1961. The public reaction to the lone coupé available for test drives was so strong that Jaguar rushed a second E-type, a roadster, from Coventry to Geneva overnight. Six decades later, the E-type 60 Collection pays tribute to these two legendary cars: the Opalescent Gunmetal Grey coupé ‘9600 HP’, driven ‘flat out’ by Bob Berry to make the launch itself, and the British Racing Green roadster ’77 RW’, driven by Norman Dewis who was told to ‘drop everything’ to get to Geneva the next day. The E-type 60 Collection cars, which are sold as a pair (one E-type 60 Edition coupé, one E-type 60 Edition roadster) are finished in exclusive Flat Out Grey and Drop Everything Green paint colours respectively. These colour formulations are inspired by the original 1961 colours and won’t be used on any other Jaguar.
The cars also feature a range of unique E-type 60 design elements developed in conjunction with Julian Thomson, Jaguar Design Director; subtle enhancements for improved usability and driveability including a five-speed manual gearbox and enhanced cooling; plus the Jaguar Classic Infotainment System with built-in satellite navigation and Bluetooth connectivity. The most distinctive visual highlight for each of the specially produced cars is an engraving by artist and designer King Nerd on the centre console of each car, recalling the drive routes from Coventry to Geneva of those original cars. Each piece of art takes more than 100 hours to create by hand, in consultation with the owner. 272 LUXURY LIVING
Dan Pink, Director, Jaguar Classic, said: “Sixty years after its unveiling at the Geneva Motor Show in March 1961, the talented team at Jaguar Classic are releasing the ultimate birthday present to the E-type: The E-type 60 Collection. The attention to detail demonstrates how this project has been a labour of love for our designers, engineers, craftspeople and partners. Exquisite detailing combined with enhanced usability ensure these Etypes will be coveted and enjoyed for decades to come by their discerning owners, starting with a once-in-a-lifetime Coventry to Geneva pilgrimage for our six customers and their guests in Summer 2022.”
Restored and refined by the experts at Jaguar Classic in Coventry, the E-type 60 Collection cars combine flawless quality and exceptional engineering know-how. The most significant mechanical upgrade is a specially-developed five-speed manual gearbox which features synchromesh on all ratios, helical cut gears and a reinforced cast aluminium casing for enhanced reliability and greater durability as well as closer gear ratios and smoother changes. The 265bhp 3.8-litre six-cylinder XK engine benefits from an authentic 1961-style alloy radiator, with electric cooling fan and electronic ignition for everyday usability, as well as a polished stainless steel exhaust system. This new exhaust system is dimensionally identical to the standard mild steel system but produces a slightly deeper tone and offers greater longevity. 273
LUXURY LIVING POWER u
The highlight of the visual enhancements is a unique piece of metal engraving created by prominent artist and world-leading engraver, King Nerd. Johnny ‘King Nerd’ Dowell has inscribed the stainless steel centre consoles of the 12 cars with a bespoke etching relevant to each E-type 60 Edition. Each Smooth Black leather-trimmed coupé features a stylised route map plotting the key locations along the route taken by Bob Berry, with an overhead sketch of the E-type and the words, ‘I thought you’d never get here’, recalling the reaction of Jaguar founder Sir William Lyons to Bob’s arrival just minutes before the unveiling.
274 LUXURY LIVING
For the six Suede Green leather-trimmed roadsters, the engraving tracks the route taken by Dewis on his last-minute drive to Switzerland, with a sketch of the car and another Lyons’ quote – this time his instructions to Norman: ‘Drop everything and bring the open top E-type over.’ In addition to the centre console, the bonnet badge, clock face within the tachometer, fuel cap and chassis plate are all finished with a commemorative E-type 60 logo created by Jaguar Design, featuring the years ‘1961-2021’. A light beech-rimmed steering wheel, as fitted to 1961 cars, features a 24-carat gold horn push. Every car is supplied with a tailor-made E-type 60 car cover, tool roll and jack storage bags to complete the enhancements and exemplify the attention to detail lavished on each vehicle. In Summer 2022, the six customers and their guests will take part in the ultimate E-type pilgrimage; a Coventry-to-Geneva drive experience with their cars to create their own E-type memories, enjoying breath-taking scenery, epic roads – including iconic Alpine passes – exclusive stays and fine cuisine throughout the trip. For more information visit: www.jaguar.com/classic 275
ICON A5 Make Weekends Extraordinary. Learn to fly the ICON A5 in less than a month and experience the world in ways that you’ve only imagined. Until now. Connect with your local ICON Demo Team at fly@iconaircraft.com or (707) 564-4100 for 2019 aircraft delivery availability. 276 LUXURY LIVING
iconaircraft.com
LUXURY LIVING POWER u
THERE’S A NEW CAT IN TOWN Dutch premium and sustainable yacht brand Vaan Yachts introduces its first model: the Vaan R4
This luxury catamaran is based on the idea that luxury and sustainability go hand in hand by making clever use of technology and materials such as recycled aluminium, cork, and plant-based alternatives for leather. Innovative choices in its design make the R4 a premium yacht that optimally combines comfort with a spectacular sailing experience.
278 LUXURY LIVING
279
LUXURY LIVING POWER u
HULL MADE OF WINDOW FRAMES AND NUMBER PLATES The design of the catamaran was based on circular principles. Because it is mostly made of recyclable materials, the boat, in turn, is almost completely recyclable itself. The hull, for example, is for more than 50% made of recycled aluminium such as old window panes, traffic signs, and number plates. Some parts of the cat even contain more than 75% reused materials. The recycled aluminium will be applied in yacht building for the first time in an exclusive partnership with Hydro. Every year, 80,000 boats see their end-of-life in Europe alone. Of those 80,000, only 2,000 are stripped. The remaining 78,000 are burned in incinerators, causing massive CO2 emissions. Vaan believes that this must and can be changed for the better. “Pleasure cruising has to become more sustainable fast because your pleasure should never be at the cost of others”, says Igor Kluin, founder of Vaan. “And there is no reason why it should. By looking at materials and the design in a different and innovative way, you can even make a boat circular. It’s just a choice to do so.” MADE FOR SAILORS During the design process for the R4, the sailor was the focal point. The helm position at the back gives the helmsman more of a feeling that he is sailing than on traditional catamarans, where you are often situated on the roof. Thanks to the large, open transom, you feel closely connected to the water that rages underneath. It gives the same spectacular sensation as sailing on a monohull but then without the heeling, an important reason for other family members not to come along.
280 LUXURY LIVING
NO FIXED BIMINI Another feature that distinguishes the Vaan R4 is that it has no large, hard roof above the cockpit. Instead, it has a bimini that can be easily installed and which can protect the cockpit and helm positions from the sun when this is desired, because steering in the sun is what many sailors want in more temperate or colder regions. This makes the R4 not only suitable for warm climates but certainly also for a trip up north. THE SAILING HOTEL SUITE Natural materials are used for the interior, such as lyocell (an alternative for silk), a plant-based alternative for leather made of pineapple leaves, cork, linen, and certified wood. This makes the R4 not just more sustainable, it also creates a warm, cosy atmosphere as if you are staying in a luxury hotel suite. Nienke van ’t Klooster, co-owner and interior designer at Vaan: “What strikes me is that all boats seem to look the same on the inside. We let ourselves be inspired by hotel designs and innovative materials, creating a more exclusive look and atmosphere”. For more information visit: www.vaanyachts.nl
281
Presenting news on some of the worlds most
extraordinary motoring brands
merCedes 282 LUXURY LIVING
i
lAmBorghini
i
AUdi
i
PorsChe
i
Aston mArtin
our dedicated team of professional writers bring you: luxury news, press releases and along with detailed photos and spy shots for all your favourite supercars
read aLL tHe Latest Car neWs noW
Billions Luxury Portal REAL ESTATE | SUPER & MEGA YACHTS | SUPER CARS | LUXURY TRAVEL
Billions Luxury Portal REAL ESTATE | SUPER & MEGA YACHTS | SUPER CARS | LUXURY TRAVEL
lUXUrY motoring
www.billionsluxuryportal.com/luxury-cars
BentleY
i
rolls roYCe
i
JAgUAr
i
Bmw
i
lAnd roVer
i
ferrAri 283
LUXURY LIVING POWER u
YACHTING NEWS
284 LUXURY LIVING
THIS 61 METER EXPEDITION YACHT SIMPLY OOZES LUXURY Yacht designer Steve Kozloff has revealed his latest superyacht concept; the Arctic Owl Designed for scientific research and exploration, Arctic Owl is fast and light featuring
a helicopter hangar and dedicated garage to accommodate a U-Boat Worx NEMO
Submarine. Powered by two Cummins hybrid diesel-electric engines, Arctic Owl has a cruise speed of 16 knots extending to a top speed of 18 knots over a range of 6000 nautical miles.
Equipped with a steel, ice class hull and aluminium superstructure, Arctic Owl balances
a robust exterior with a luxurious interior offering accommodation for a total of 10 guests in six staterooms with a staff of six crew.
The dedicated garage designed to accommodate the U-Boat Worx NEMO submarine comes with an easy launch and
recovery system one of Kozloff ’s most recent invention. She also has a separate dedicated garage for the tenders, both port and starboard, resulting in an effortless launch and recovery system. There is also an enormous swimming pool and lounging area which includes an automated hard cover that becomes a gazebo when the pool is in use.
Even with her strong utilitarian features the Arctic Owl does not compromise in luxury and beauty, the prominent contours
and extensive glazing of the yacht offers an unique interior space for an interior designer’s masterpiece. The views are unrestricted almost anywhere on this explorer--from the view of the bow cockpit to the panoramic windows at the stern located over the hangar deck. One can easily see everything from the ocean to the night sky.
The Arctic Owl includes two free-fall lifeboats for crew and guests that will accommodate 8 people each. For more information visit: www.thegoliathseries.com 285
LUXURY LIVING POWER u
DAMEN YACHTING UPDATES SEAXPLORER 77 EXPEDITION YACHT The new SeaXplorer 77 expedition yacht model will have an increased focus on exploration lifestyle
286 LUXURY LIVING
Following the first three sales from Damen Yachting’s SeaXplorer range and 2020’s milestone deliveries, Damen Yachtinghas announced plans to introduce a new look
SeaXplorer 77 from its range of luxury expedition yachts. The SeaXplorer 77 is the first in an updated SeaXplorer line-up, the result of a comprehensive review by the in-house
SeaXplorer design team together with exterior stylists Azure Yacht Design and operational design partners EYOS Expeditions.
The update’s features include a multipurpose aft deck that can be modified for a wide
variety of owner-specified requirements, for example deploying a seaplane or hangaring a large seven-person submarine. All SeaXplorers are now also offered with hybrid electric drive propulsion (PTO/PTI configuration) and battery bank for highly efficient cruising.
For those looking to explore sunny climates a number of features specifically for tropical
destinations have been added, including an upper deck swimming pool and party and
DJ dance space large enough for 150 guests. Other updates include the inclusion of a multipurpose aft deck that can be modified for owner-specified requirements, such as accommodating a submarine hangar or storing and deploying a seaplane
Speaking about the redesign, SeaXplorer design manager Enrique Tintore explained: “Visiting the polar regions once in their lifetimes is on nearly every SeaXplorer client’s bucket list,” Enrique says. “But so are many tropical areas where the operational challenges
shouldn’t be underestimated. It’s about staying safe in isolation, but also about enjoying the
yachting lifestyle to the maximum. In fact, you don’t need to go very far from the major superyacht hubs before the benefits of an explorer yacht become clear. That’s the philosophy that our line-up reflects.”
For more information visit: www.damenyachting.com 287
LUXURY LIVING POWER u
THE FUTURE IS NOW: BERING YACHTS INTRODUCES THE COBRA CONCEPT The Cobra concept by Bering Yachts pushes the design envelope while retaining the US brand’s signature focus on functionality and superior design
288 LUXURY LIVING
Turkish yacht builder Bering Yachts has revealed a 55 metre explorer yacht model called the Cobra based on a steel hull that can be adapted to various sizes. The outstanding feature is that Cobra has complete upper deck
entirely devoted to open-air entertaining, dining and partying – enough open space for everything.
“The Cobra is a new type of explorer vessel based on a steel hull that can
be adapted to various sizes,” says Alexei Mikhailov, founder and President of Bering Yachts. “Most yachts lack truly big and safe open-deck areas, and
what they do have is usually confined to the aft cockpit or the flybridge. With Cobra we wanted to overcome that drawback and the complete upper deck is entirely devoted to open-air entertaining, dining and partying.”
The main feature of the upper deck is the very large oval swimming pool
forward, which has a transparent bottom positioned directly above the
main salon below. The touch-and-go helipad is big enough to take twinengine helicopters, or even passenger drones. In the extreme bow is a cosy observation ‘nest’ for private, panoramic relaxation.
A design highlight is the semi-circular wheelhouse on the flybridge that is
cantilevered over the upper deck. Behind the wheelhouse is a sky lounge and bar with glass walls and ceiling for outstanding panoramic views.
An elevator and spiral staircase span the four deck levels. On main deck
there is the principle salon and master stateroom with two fixed balconies. The lower deck comprises four en-suite guest suites and the crew accommodation.
The enormous beach club/tender garage in the stern has fold-down platforms on both sides that extend the beam to 12 metres. When the
tenders are deployed the area is transformed into a water-level beach
area with ceiling heights of almost 4 metres and room to take a car or amphibious vehicle.
At 55 metres in length overall, Cobra has a maximum beam of 9 metres
and is rated below 500GT. The reverse bow is a dynamic design feature, but also increases the waterline length for faster hull speeds. The yacht can have a hybrid propulsion package. Cobra is expected to have a top speed of 16 knots, a cruising speed of 12 knots. At cruising speed it will have an oceanic range of 5,000 nm.
Bering Yachts is renowned for its full-displacement, steel-hulled yachts
that combine the autonomy and rugged construction of explorers with the spacious comfort of modern superyachts. Cobra is a daring concept that takes that philosophy to its next-generation conclusion. For more information visit: www.beringyachts.com 289
LUXURY LIVING POWER u
290 LUXURY LIVING
HORIZON UNVEILS NEW E81 MODEL The newly-launched E81 offers a wide beam affording plentiful interior and deck space
291
LUXURY LIVING POWER u
A new model for the popular Horizon E Series has made its debut on the U.S. market. Recently launched, the brand new E81 incorporates the sleek E Series superstructure design atop a beamy hull. As is the case
with many of Horizon’s new yacht models, the custom E81 was born from the requests of her experienced owners, who were looking to move up from their current yacht and approached Horizon to design a spacious vessel that suited their cruising lifestyle.
The E Series is one of Horizon’s oldest and most popular yacht series and is characterized by a classic flybridge layout with sweeping lines that convey both style and elegance. The E81 features a high-performance hull with a 20’ 6” beam, which allows for up to four staterooms as well as a variety of engine options.
The first of new E81 commissioned by a U.S client is distinguished by an expansive open bridge that is protected by a hard top and a fixed glass windshield forward. Here, a full helm station with dual helm chairs is complemented by a large U-shaped starboard-side settee facing a bar with four bar stools to port.
292 LUXURY LIVING
293
LUXURY LIVING POWER u
Within the modern interior, which is outfitted in light oak with dark wood accents, the main salon is fit-
ted with a large L-shaped sofa facing a pop-up television while the spacious galley to starboard has been customized with overhead cabinetry. A day head is situated to port and an internal stairway leads to the
flybridge. The main deck aft offers a large teak dining table, a fully equipped wet bar and a drop-down televi-
sion. Walkaround side decks lead to the foredeck area, with another spacious seating/dining area and sunpad complete with an innovative covered storage space.
The owners specified a four-stateroom layout with quarters for two crew aft. The large master suite encompasses the full beam amidships and features a custom vanity on the port side for her and a work desk on
the starboard side for him. The owners’ appreciation for art has been underscored in the design of this space, which includes an “art nook” to house a sculpture piece as well as an area above the headboard specified for artwork. Forward of the master, two guest staterooms to port and starboard comprise a bunk room and a
convertible twin, while a spacious VIP occupies the bow area and echoes the custom arrangements for artwork found in the master.
294 LUXURY LIVING
“Today’s yacht owner appreciates interior volume and plentiful deck space,” says Roger Sowerbutts, Director of Ho-
rizon Yacht USA. “With the E81, we’ve taken the sleek, ever-popular E Series profile and given her a beamy hull that accommodates a wide range of engine options while not compromising on performance or draft.”
Equipped with twin Onan 29kW generators and twin
CAT C32 engines of 1,600hp each, the new E81 is further supported by bow and stern thrusters and Zero Speed stabilizers. The Sea Recovery watermaker offers a
900gal/day capacity and the yacht can also be remotely docked via the Wireless Yacht Controller.
For more information visit: www.horizonyacht.com
295
LUXURY LIVING POWER u
YOUR MISSION SHOULD YOU CHOSE TO ACCEPT IT? Superyacht design studio Vom Creations, unveils Mission Impossibleinspired explorer concept
296 LUXURY LIVING
Following a contest by Boat International for the best sketch for an explorer yacht inspired by the Mission Impossible franchise the Slovenian design firm choose to accept the challenge coming up with this action packed Mr Hunt creation.
The 58 metre concept explorer designed for Arctic cruising, aptly named Mr Hunt drew on inspiration not only from the Mission Impossible franchise but the SS Vega, the first yacht to voyage through the North-East Passage.
Onboard, the tri-deck vessel is designed to provide as much open space on the decks as possible, with design features such
as a solar panelled roof paired with hydrogen propulsion, perfect for any eco-minded owner, as well as a sauna, library and a bar for kicking back after a day of polar exploration, the bow also comes with a generous lounge area with a Jacuzzi.
Accommodation comprises of one master stateroom with direct access to the bow jacuzzi and four VIP suites able to sleep a total of 10 guests. (There’s also room for up to 11 crew members.)
297
300 LUXURY LIVING
IVING
PROPERTY
Sponsored by
PERFECT Homes MAGAZINE
Luxury Living Magazine works with the industry’s top brokers and agents to showcase spectacular real estate, exclusive estates, and extraordinary developments from around the world. Whether you are looking to find your dream home or perfect vacation rental Luxury Living Magazine is your key to exclusive luxury living.
301
LUXURY LIVING PROPERTY u
TWENTY GROSVENOR SQUARE UNVEILS
LUXURY
JAMES BOND-INSPIRED MAYFAIR RESIDENCE Live like the iconic spy in the aptly title 0.07 apartment at Twenty Grosvenor Square, a Four Seasons Residence in Mayfair 302 LUXURY LIVING
Four Seasons Private Residences situated in Mayfair recently opened sales for its luxury residences at 20 Grosvenor Square, more than just a luxury property these apartments come steeped in history. Dwight D. Eisenhower set up
his military headquarters here during the Second World War. Oscar Wilde lived there, and wrote the address into several of his books and the Bentley Boys even took over a corner of the square.
303
LUXURY LIVING PROPERTY u
Developed by Squire & Partners and designed by Finchatton one such apartment pays homage to the
captivating world of 007 and more importantly it’s located just 14-minutes away from M16 HQ! Apartment
0.07 is a luxurious and sophisticated 3-bedroom triplex development, spanning 5,863 square feet decorated
with a rich palette throughout, while contrasting textures and finishes create exquisitely tailored spaces that are warm and inviting, it also boasts a double garage in the basement and an in-residence elevator for utmost privacy and ease in transition between each floor.
The unit is completely turnkey and all furnishings and custom elements are included such as the large pendant with brushed brass detailing designed by Lee Broom in the classical drawing room, the polished statuario marble fireplace, woven leather consoles, and a rug from Stark.
Soaring ceilings and double-heighted windows create a light and airy atmosphere and the choice of materials sees an unrivalled elegance in traditional craftsmanship.
The lower level holds three-bedrooms, including the master-bedroom with two dressing rooms and a master
ensuite bathroom. The soft base palette of the master bedroom is layered with pink elements, complementing
an upholstered headboard featuring an intricate mix of blue and grey tweed with leather piping. Down here, a second entrance leads from the double garage to a hallway adorned with bold geometric patterned taupe wallpaper, while dramatic up-lighting provides a palpable sense of arrival for guests.
304 LUXURY LIVING
305
LUXURY LIVING PROPERTY u
306 LUXURY LIVING
The signature entertainment space is the games room, featuring a high gloss walnut chess board from Sir
William Bentley, a full-sized pool table and a home entertainment system. The centrepiece of the space, however, is a lofty window adorned with Dedar red velvet curtains overlooking the double garage which has grey wool wallpaper in a men’s suit style pin stripe.
As the world’s first Four Seasons Private Residence, Twenty Grosvenor Square offers an impressive range of lifestyle amenities supported by the hotel brand, while there are no hotel suites or restaurants as part of
the residential development, residents have access to a private wine cellar, an 18-seat cinema and a 25m swimming pool, to name just a few. There’s also a full suite of services including a 24-hour concierge, valet
parking, housekeeping and building maintenance, all of which are manned by an onsite Director of Residence - the closest thing you’ll get to a real life Q.
Priced start from start at around £17.5 million, for more information visit: www.finchatton.com
307
NO TWO CLIENTS OR HOMES ARE THE SAME Founded in 1980, Octagon pioneered the concept of luxury housebuilding with a straightforward, but revolutionary idea: build a select number of exceptional homes in the very best locations.
T H E U LT I M AT E DESIGN
BUILD
Around 15 years ago, Octagon launched the ultimate design and build service, Octagon Bespoke, working closely with clients to start their self-build projects completely from scratch. The Octagon Bespoke division is incredibly unique, in that they are able to offer clients support from the very first steps of finding
a plot of land and obtaining local planning permissions – sometimes demolishing their current home and replacing with a brand new property – to design, specification, and everything in between. The skilled team are also able to facilitate a major renovation or extension – the possibilities are endless, and they approach every potential project as a brand new challenge.
48
STU8288_OCTAGON_LPRS_BESPOKE_ADVERTORIAL_DPS_460x300mm_FEB20_AW.indd All Pages Octagon OUTPUT.indd 1
20/02/2020 14:11
Octagon Bespoke Director, John Pope explains; “It’s very difficult to summarise the Bespoke division, as the day to day really is so varied! We could be designing a beautiful eight bedroom family home in Weybridge, renovating a Victorian townhouse in Mayfair, or extending a penthouse apartment on the banks of the Thames. Every client and every home is different, hence why we call it Bespoke. “We’ve had clients come to us after they’ve been refused planning permission multiple times, and, with their consent, our team has made some vital changes and we’ve been given the green light from local Councils. Our reputation within London and the Home Counties is new build, because that’s what the majority of our speculative homes have been in the past. But we’ve recently completed a historical renovation on a Grade II* listed building in the heart of Wimbledon alongside English Heritage – we can do it all.” While no ‘typical’ client, the Bespoke team do get a lot of repeat customers – those who have previously bought a speculative home, and a few years later would like to create their own Bespoke project, or are perhaps considering a complete remodel or extension of their Octagon home. “We’ve had some clients arrive at meetings
with scrapbooks and fabric samples and images of their artwork”, John explains, “which is actually brilliant for the team, as it helps to give a real insight into what it is they’re looking for from their home, as well as their style and taste. “Others are more hands off – they’ve seen an Octagon property they like (we often take potential clients around our recently completed homes, to give them an idea of our finishes and standards), and bar some minor changes, they would like us to build a similar house on their plot of land.” One of the biggest joys – and challenges – is that no two homes are the same, nor are any two clients.
At Octagon, we have over 40 years experience and an unrivalled reputation for building spectacular, one-of-a kind homes to the highest standard of luxury. Our discreet bespoke service takes clients on a journey from planning stages through to handing over the keys, with our in-house experts on hand every step of the way. Octagon Bespoke can help you transform your vision into something truly unique. Bespoke projects start from £1m.
“Working to the client’s brief is the most important thing, and can be especially difficult if they don’t know what it is they want – there can be a lot of reading between the lines, but with such an experienced team, we’re always full of suggestions and ideas that we think will work.”
Octagon Bespoke undertakes projects from £1m. Visit www.octagonbespoke.co.uk or call 0208 481 7500.
0208 481 7500 | OCTAGONBESPOKE.CO.UK
49
Octagon OUTPUT.indd 2
20/02/2020 20/02/2020 10:15 14:11
LUXURY LIVING PROPERTY u
Exquisite Spanish Estate Relisted with a Massive
€14 MILLION PRICE DROP The Villa Las Sirenas, one of the most exclusive and luxurious mansions on the Mediterranean’s Costa del Sol situated near Sotogrande’s luxury playground once priced at €28million has recently been relisted for just under €15million
Photo Credit: Stan Haw 310 LUXURY LIVING
Advertorial
311
LUXURY LIVING PROPERTY u
Tucked away along a dusty track and hidden away from prying eyes, lays this elegant Spanish Coloni-
al estate. Upon first inspection it is reminiscent of a bygone era but within hides an enchanting mystic.
A one-of-a-kind estate, this property represents a rare opportunity to own an oasis in the heart of one of the most desirable locations in Southern Spain Built in 1973 this impressive ten bedroom house sits in over 15 acres of enchanting gardens and seems
to be the quintessential embodiment of European sensibilities. Walled and gated, the elegant property is the result of old world artisan craftsmanship. The rooms have soaring ceilings, arched windows and
a Rococo flair. Arabian decor is hugely influential in the interior design of this house and creates an atmosphere of mystique, fantasy and no holds-barred luxury.
u
312 LUXURY LIVING
313
LUXURY LIVING PROPERTY u
As you approach the estate along its tree lined drive passing two separate guest houses nestled within its garden, the house comes into view and is framed by the trees and landscaped
gardens an impressive formal fountain takes centre stage redefining its palatial elegance. The Mediterranean Sea sits to the left of the property peeking through the perfectly framed conifer trees and water can be heard flowing around the garden creating an ambience of tranquillity and serenity.
The house itself welcomes you through a magnificent entrance hall which connects the old with the new, original fixtures have been lovingly restored and seamlessly incorporated to
offer modern conveniences. Decorative panels with lustrous gold finishes and a large arched
window invite you to venture further, with the formal dining room, gentleman’s library, kitchen and main living room all stemming from it. The main living room with its opulent
décor and Arabian flair is not only impressive but hides a secret for within its walls are a secret labyrinth of tunnels which entwine each wing of the house together and lead to the Turkish bath, indoor swimming pool and underground Hamman.
u
314 LUXURY LIVING
La Sirenas is listed with an asking price of €14,950,000 to enquire about this property contact: Castles Real Estate, C/ Isaac Peral 4, 29692 Sabinillas, Manilva, Málaga Offices: Duquesa: 0034 952 89 34 20 - Sabinillas: 0034 951 71 46 26 sales@castlesestateagency.com www.castlesestateagency.com Ref: Luxury Living 315
Established 1897
Matthew Parker Street St James, SW1H
A fabulous two bedroom, duplex apartment (1,070sq ft/99sq m), that has been recently renovated. Enter the property to a spacious and bright openplan living room, guest W/C and stunning kitchen with Siemens appliances. Upstairs are two well-appointed double bedrooms with built-in wardrobes and a luxurious bathroom featuring with marble and onyx. Central Building is located moments from the beautiful St James’s Park and benefits from a 24hour porter service. The property also comes with one underground parking space. Available, furnished.
REntal PRICE
£895 pER WEEK - Furnished *pluS pROpERTy FEES
EPC RatInG
D
ContaCt
Mayfair lettings +44 (0) 20 7409 9158 robin.boghhenrikssen@harrodsestates.com *www.harrodsestates.com/tenants
H A R R O D S E S TAT E S . C O M
Established 1897
Lancelot Place
REntal PRICE
£2,800 pER WEEK - Furnished
Knightsbridge, SW7
*pluS pROpERTy FEES
A stunning three-bedroom lateral apartment in this portered block with 24hour concierge, resident’s gym and swimming pool located in the heart of Knightsbridge. This beautiful luxury property (approximately 2090 sq ft/194.16 sq m) boasts ample storage, wooden flooring throughout and is in immaculate condition. Superbly situated in this quiet spot yet just moments from the shops, cafes and restaurants and a short stroll to Hyde Park. An underground parking space is available by separate negotiation.
EPC RatInG
B
ContaCt
Knightsbridge lettings +44 (0) 20 7225 6758 chloe.wise@harrodsestates.com *www.harrodsestates.com/tenants
H A R R O D S E S TAT E S . C O M
Established 1897
Soneva Villa Ownership Maldives Soneva is the only company in the Maldives to sell property to foreign investors. A limited number of spectacular prime beachfront Private Residences and plots are still available to purchase, each of which is uniquely-designed and carefully located to combine maximum privacy and tranquillity whilst being close enough to enjoy Soneva’s first-class services and amenities. Benefitting from abundant natural light, lush foliage and picturesque views, the sprawling villas are made of sustainable materials and comprise detached living areas joined by wooden walkways, offering the luxury of space to villa owners and their families. Each Private Residence is bespoke, designed to meet the owner and their family’s specific requirements, whilst remaining true to the Soneva values.
H A R R O D S E S TAT E S . C O M
GUIDE PRICE
From £3,000,000
lEaSEholD
Approximately 74 years remaining EPC RatInG
N/A
ContaCt
New Developments Simon Barry +44 (0) 7409 9346 simon.barry@harrodsestates.com
Established 1897
Dunraven Street
GUIDE PRICE
£2,395,000
Mayfair, W1K A very well presented, bright two-bedroom apartment offering views over Green Street’s ‘secret garden’. Finished to an excellent standard the apartment (963sq ft/89.5sq ft) boasts two double bedrooms, two bathrooms, and wood floors throughout. Located between Park Lane and Park Street the property is superbly located for Hyde Park as well as Mayfair’s amazing array of restaurants and bars.
lEaSEholD
Approximately 81 years remaining EPC RatInG
D
ContaCt
Mayfair Sales Robert Cox +44 (0) 20 7409 9047 robert.cox@harrodsestates.com
H A R R O D S E S TAT E S . C O M
Established 1897
Basil Street
GUIDE PRICE
£5,975,000
Knightsbridge, SW3 A beautifully presented, three bedroom lateral apartment on the first floor (with lift) of this portered mansion block, located on Basil Street, just moments from Harrods. Washington House is located Basil Street in the heart of Knightsbridge with Harrods and Sloane Street on it’s doorstep and within a short walking distance of Chelsea, South Kensington and all the world-class shopping, hotels, restaurants and bars. The wonderful open spaces of Hyde Park are also conveniently close by.
H A R R O D S E S TAT E S . C O M
lEaSEholD
Approximately 121 years remaining EPC RatInG
B
ContaCt
Knightsbridge Sales Michael Harte +44 (0) 20 7225 6506 michael.harte@harrodsestates.com
Established 1897
Victoria Road
GUIDE PRICE
£24,000,000
Kensington, W8 A unique and substantial double fronted villa near Kensington Palace and Hyde Park. The house has been built to the highest standards and includes off-street parking for two cars and a spa with swimming pool. This immaculate interior designed lateral house, with a frontage of over 40 ft wide and triple aspect windows, offers the perfect combination of contemporary living in luxurious surroundings with state-of-the-art technology. The property is within close proximity of both Knightsbridge, Mayfair and the beautiful open spaces of both Kensington Gardens and Hyde Park.
H A R R O D S E S TAT E S . C O M
FREEholD EPC RatInG
C
ContaCt
Knightsbridge Sales Reem Dougramaji +44 (0) 20 7225 6506 reem.dougramaji@harrodsestates.com
LUXURY LIVING PROPERTY u
POWER COUPLE ROBERT GERTZ & MARIO SEILER BRING LUXURY PERSONIFIED WITH
MODERN BUTLER
Modern Butler is a luxury estate and lifestyle management company
providing a variety of resources for maintaining an effortless lifestyle
of luxury. Spouses and Co-founders, Robert Gertz and Mario Seiler, are two of the most highly sought-after Estate managers in the world.
Thanks to the couple’s esteemed reputation and overall elegance, Modern Butler has become world renowned for providing the most personalized, prestigious, and worry-free services for luxury estates.
The powerful duo recently added Real Estate to their list of services, and has kindly shared photos of their luxurious listing, 712 N Maple Drive in Beverly Hills, CA. Luxury Living Magazine caught up with
Robert and Mario to talk about their company Modern Butler and their new journey into luxury real estate!
322 LUXURY LIVING
Could you tell us more about your Luxury Estate Management company, Modern Butler? Robert Gertz: We are a boutique luxury lifestyle support company. What that means is that we provide comprehensive personalized concierge services, from estate management (day-today operations, maintenance, household manuals, drawer-to-drawer relocation, staff hiring and
training, chefs and menus, oversight of design and construction projects, etc.) to event planning, real estate, transportation, travel, and security. We have years of experience working with very
affluent property owners as well as vendors and service providers in many trades and we understand the importance of accuracy and discretion with an absolute minimum of disruption. Why should an estate or high profile client choose to hire Modern Butler? Mario Seiler: People who have achieved a lifestyle of comfort and luxury really should be able to
enjoy the benefits of their accomplishments. We handle all the details so they can do just that. By
offering a full range of lifestyle services, we take away the stress of dealing with multiple vendors. Plus, since our service is highly personalized, we can integrate all of the household activities for streamlined, seamless service. It means peace of mind for the owner/family without the worries of maintenance and oversight.
Can you tell us more about your journey to success? Robert Gertz: I started the business in 2011 as a concierge service with heavy focus on branding, events, and personal assistant services. Mario, who has a dazzling background in the international hospitality industry, joined the business in 2016 and we integrated estate management
services with our offerings. As our combined skills allowed us to see a bigger picture, other services followed. We are both energetic do-ers, creative and positive, and we have a clear vision of how we can contribute to our clients’ luxury lifestyle.
You recently added Real Estate to your long list of services and services you provide. What made you decide to do so? Do you have any properties on the market?
Robert Gertz: Real estate seemed like the next logical step. We were already working closely with the owners of luxury estates, so it made sense to use our networking, staging and lifestyle knowledge to extend our capabilities. When our clients approached us to ask whether we could
assist with their real estate needs, we said yes. Our interaction with our real estate clients often doesn’t start or end with a sale or purchase. Our relationship continues with lifestyle manage-
ment services. It’s very gratifying to have this ongoing trust and communication. We are cur-
rently representing a classic estate in Beverly Hills and handling the lease of an architecturally
significant property in Hollywood. We also represent buyers, including two who are looking for beach properties in Malibu.
Finally, what do you love most about working together? Mario Seiler: We have discovered that the whole really is greater than the sum of its parts. We each have different strengths and expertise, and while we accomplished a lot working on our
own, we learn so much from each other every day. Plus, our combined skills enable us to push our boundaries and provide better, more dynamic service to our clients. This is not just a job – it’s a passion!
To discover what Modern butler can do for you visit: www.modernbutlerla.com 323
LUXURY LIVING PROPERTY u
FANCY MOVING NEXT DOOR TO
HARRY & MEGAN? Former home of Rob Lowe designed to look like an English country manor has been listed for sale
325
LUXURY LIVING PROPERTY u
Set in Montecito’s coveted Riven Rock ‘Owenshire,’ is a 17,000-square-foot home re-
garded as one of the prettiest properties on the block. Located within walking distance to the former royal couple’s home it has been listed for sale for $22.5 million.
Previously owned by actor Rob Lowe the estate which was sold to billionaire Peter Sperling, former chairman of the for-profit college company Apollo Education Group, and his wife, Stephanie Sperling for $25 million in 2005, who then renovated the house into
what it is today a beautiful English country manor, comprises of seven bedrooms and 13
bathrooms featuring classic English & French design touches with multiple large fireplaces and arched windows.
Listing agent Timothy Di Prizito of Coldwell Banker Global Luxury comments “It’s like stepping into ‘Sense and Sensibility.”
The estate also includes a guest house, library, solarium, movie theatre, two pools, com-
mercial gym an eight-car garage and a second fully stainless steel 5-star chef ’s kitchen with a pizza oven.
Montecito is home to some of the area’s most stunning stretches of coastline, from Fernald’s Point, past the calm waters of Miramar Beach and renowned surf break at Hammonds Point, to sparkling Butterfly Beach. A haven for celebrities and billionaires alike
it provides a paparazzi free haven with other notable residents including; Katy Perry , who paid $ 14.2 for a hilltop mansion, Ariana Grande who bought a 5,500 square foot home from Ellen DeGeneres for $ 6.7 million, and longtime resident and friend of the former royal couple Oprah Winfrey who owns a huge estate 23,000 square foot building
called The Promised Land valued and a 23-acre horse ranch at the Montecito Ranch for $ 28.8 million.
u
326 LUXURY LIVING
The property is listed with
agents Joyce Rey and Timothy Di Prizito of Coldwell Banker
Global Luxury for $22.5million
327
Florida outdoor SoFa | rodolFo dordoni deSign www.minotti.com 328 LUXURY LIVING
LIFESCAPE 329
LUXURY LIVING PROPERTY u
A BLUEPRINT FOR
SUSTAINBLE LIVING Saudi Arabia reveals a hundred-mile-long linear city
LUXURY LIVING PROPERTY u
What will cities of the future look like? Well if fact follows fictions and the realms of Hollywood we’ll all be living in space-age cities towering high into the sky, complete with monorails, robots, and hover cars, however Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman thinks differently, recently he launched a new project that will see a futuristic city take shape over the next decade. Neom’s ‘THE LINE’ is a “170-kilometer revolution in urban living” where a string of sustainable communities will co-exist with zero cars, zero streets and zero carbon emissions.
Located in the Tabuk region of Saudi Arabia Neom’s ‘THE LINE’ will link the coast of the Red Sea with the mountains and upper
valleys of the north-west of Saudi Arabia acting as a global innovation hub a place where entrepreneurs, business leaders, and companies can come to “research, incubate, and commercialize new technologies and enterprises in ground-breaking ways.”
First announced in 2017 the development will be powered by renewable energies from solar, wind and hydrogen-based power gener-
ation – ensuring clean and pollution-free urban environments aided by new technologies including robot workers and flying vehicles. The infrastructure of the line will be powered by Artificial Intelligence (AI), divided into three levels where on the third level, called
Spine Level, there will be ultra-high-speed transit and autonomous vehicles that will make travel easier and give residents the opportunity to reclaim time to spend on health and wellbeing. It is expected no journey will be longer than 20 minutes. The second
level, called Service Layer, will contain all daily service facilities such as schools, medical clinics, leisure facilities while the top level, called Pedestrian Layer, will be dedicated to pedestrians and green spaces.
Construction of The Line will start in the first quarter of 2021. According to the developers, at an estimated cost of $100-to-$200
billion (taken from the $500 billion appropriated to NEOM from
the Saudi government and international investors) with the city is expected to house one million residents by 2030. For more information visit: www.neom.com
332 LUXURY LIVING
DISCOVER THE WORLD OF PERFECT INTERNATIONAL MAGAZINE Connect with “PERFECT HOMES INTERNATIONAL MAGAZINE” wherever you like and discover a world of real estate and architecture with property news from around around the world along with stylish decorating ideas and trends. FEC
PER
24 UE ,99 IS.9S9 | ESP €7
23 9 UE €7,9 IS.9S9 | ESP
AZI
E 2699 ISSU €7, | ESP
T
£6.99
PERFECT
NE
E 25 MAG ISSU C TONAL FREN A T I T E EC F E P EI NRT RF TR E E of P INTERNATIONAL e life 2 E 2 7,99 SU SP € T IS6.99 | EC
£6
£6
£6.99
| ESP
ISSUE 27
£6.99 | ESP €7,99
€7,99
£
MAGAZINE E ving th ghI-eNnd NLiE with hiZ Z I luxury A G A E is M ZIN GA opt th GA AL E A to ad hybrid M Ances N M ow il new H ON L I L ve I end T unonss Z ide an NA er sign tr SA w NA NA pe res ribbe T I oO e U seas to de OA R G N A ur a ous Ca d th tial rior TAI TE E R s in Een Visluxuriin the n an den inte M IN t ndo st resi affordable and r INT NA The Loamazing, oo Goldmos lle R L th d ta o r e B adventurous en h a th T EA thei A-Frame Op wit I NO N TI
PE
IN
TE
R
N
A
R
FE
C P
Y S G B E IGH I ? P LF BOYS E G SSH IGH HINIENC SIMPLISTIC TID IPERN HOAW ES H N C H H OO IZ MEPUR TARCHITECTURE NSITT NDI” ZE C S piece “JAPA TI VE Own aadise CI IN ar
of pur own
AUTUMNAL DECOR
with yo jian Island Fi private
Bringing warmth to D home with A BONyour HY WORT m rea’s m VILLA dry
ontinne sra f e Sean C inaRoiv mie How to sell your ch h reFnc as soFmell Ee luxury listed home in V a Y ULLING THE Ga Add RhVi IAom SeaFr INGG RIOOUT!er h le AV NT w R it o sa SIT sChA? ofo E r summ urr w NtreID N BDyR RM T COVID nds s ry I this IIN VaInA uE gSElam homePOST dS xM adaces YOUNAIT tth X esp M w lu e YAfoL ro r arhO teario ess ye E Tthdefomr gark shr wL AWA ded bO e anMEencMARKET R ellnurthex S yo n IN n A R r o H a te ESt r eF E fre r ING V t e rio Re foO B C breAw feG RD u difA acpoeissta Inte N AT’Se of N p l s E H V im itie a IN W ris ULeEs e ith aST ID the marke It’sc re REfoSr royalty hit the dBeOnc’s thw e ro
g
A OT SA
E
IN
AZ
AG
LM
NA
IO
AT
RN
TE
MES
i t rEesS ee hom AIR Str ll
T HO
EC
RF
PE
a
N n c LIO ndo est BIL e Lo rich Th rlds wo
1
IN
es fit Hom
SELL YOUR HOME BY XMAS!
Cluttons Real Estates offers advice of how sell your home quickly
DOWNLOAD THE DIGITAL EDITION Enjoy Perfect Homes International Magazine when you’re on the move The tablet or smartphone version of PERFECT HOMES INTERNATIONAL MAGAZINE gives you access to our fabulous print edition wherever you may be. It’s perfect for commuting and travelling. Download your copy today for a FREE trial for up to 30 days.
Offering instant access to the latest in property & lifestyle
LUXURY LIVING PROPERTY u
2021
THE RISE OF PORTO MONTENEGRO IN A CHANGING WORLD
Covid-19 has undisputedly reshaped the world and impacted the way we live. Around the globe, individuals are reassessing their priorities and coupled with newfound ways to work
and educate our families with wellness & safety being paramount, the pandemic has brought new lifestyle considerations to the forefront of our minds. Opportunities that previously were not seen as available are now more attainable than we ever imagined.
Porto Montenegro is presenting itself as exactly this opportunity
LUXURY LIVING PROPERTY u
Porto Montenegro is a luxury waterfront and yachting paradise in the Bay of Kotor. Aimed at the discerning international resident looking for an exceptional Mediterranean lifestyle – encompassing a thriving residential community and enticing gathering spaces in a stunning seaside location. Porto Montenegro undoubtedly sets the bar high with
an inspirational new way to live and work due to the core offering to homeowners, crew
and guests of a luxury lifestyle experience, from accommodation and amenities to shops, entertainment, culture, history and sizeable tax benefits.
u Citizen By investMent ProgrAMMe Buyers of the managed Porto Montenegro residences will also be eligible to participate
in Montenegro’s Citizenship by investment Programme, introduced in 2019. With a
minimum investment of €450,000 and an additional €100,000 donation to a Montenegrin government development fund, successful applicants will be granted full citizenship within six months of applying. The key benefit for citizens is the right to free movement across europe’s schengen area, russia and turkey, among others.
the villAge The vibrant village community in the heart of tivat
FAMily eduCAtion:
the KnightsBridge sChool
encompasses retail and commercial elements combined with
in addition, london-based Knightsbridge school international
hotel, numerous restaurants and cafés, with a casino complex
and Ministry of education) operate their school (boarding
public facilities, waterfront promenades, a five-star regent
in planning and a hub for hosting exclusive parties, cocktail evenings at the waterfront Marina Park and iconic synchro events and performance theatre.
(licensed by the international Baccalaureate programme & day) within the Porto Montenegro village. tuition is in
Montenegrin for natives and taught as a second language for foreigners where subjects are taught in english.
ozAnA Business CluB: next level WorKing exPerienCe The ozana Business Club offers nine boutique serviced offices overlooking Porto Montenegro’s superyacht Jetty 1. Providing an unrivalled office experience for those looking to relocate or expand their business to Montenegro and surrounding themselves with like-
minded individuals. The ozana Business Club services include a conference room, lounge area and a landscaped terrace coupled with a central location of being only 10 mins from tivat international airport.
LUXURY LIVING PROPERTY u
the oPPortunity For A liFe less orindAry try Before you Buy: choose to spend 2 or 3 nights at Porto Montenegro and experience a life less ordinary
with tailored experience packages from €995 (inc vAt). two people can enjoy all Porto Montenegro offers from the accommodation, facilities, inclusive gastronomic meals showcased at the restaurants and bars, trips around
the bay and an array of cultural experiences. The cost of your stay will be deducted from deposits placed on a property purchase. during the summer, you also have the opportunity to enroll your family into the Knightsbridge school summer camp for inquiry-based learning summer programme combined with fun and a chance to see your children interact with the school in operation.
u
LUXURY LIVING PROPERTY u
oWn A residenCe: value for money in a stunning waterfront cosmopolitan location. Benefiting from the Mediterranean climate with immaculate interior design, the sense of privacy and a unique, cosmopolitan community: Porto Montenegro’s residential collection offers a unique experience of living at Montenegro’s most sophisticated waterfront address and as such presents an attractive value of investment. Elena Residencies – Prices From €329,905 of the 320 apartments at Porto Montenegro, the 50 elena residences are designed to a high-specification. situated in a central boulevard location at Porto Montenegro with attractive on-site retail and dining amenities these bespoke apartments offer contemporary design and intimate waterfront living.
Apartment elena 503 is a fifth-floor penthouse with 4 bedrooms featuring an outdoor dining area with wood burning fireplace, roof terrace complete with heated pool and whirlpool (Price €5,095,355) Regent Pool Club Residences – Prices From €412,000 regent Pool Club residences at Aqua and Baia wings located on the spectacular waterfront – offer an elegant
contemporary living style. These popular residences offer generous outdoor spaces with views of the village, mountains and the unesCo protected Boka Bay beyond.
Aqua 504 is a stunning bespoke residence offering 3 bedrooms that boasts generous internal & external areas ideal for seamless indoor-outdoor living. (Price €2,566,000)
Boka Place – Prices From €190,000 Boka Place is a new urban quarter in Porto Montenegro built with wellness at its core. here, the spirit of community
is underpinned by a desire to live an active lifestyle. surrounded by shops and cafés, a fitness hotel and wellness hub by siro by Kerzner international, green outdoor spaces - choose from a range of siro-managed and private residences, all offering a fresh perspective on affordable luxury living:
• 69 private residences (studios, 1-, 2- and 3-bedroom apartments, duplexes and penthouses) offer access to the bespoke M-residences management programme, exclusive facilities and a unique opportunity to integrate decorative art features by internationally renowned artists – Bradley Theodore and Miljan suknovic. (Prices start from €200,000)
• 144 SIRO-managed apartments (mix of studios, 1-, 2- and 3-bedroom apartments, duplexes and penthouses) offering access to the 360° vitality hub including roof-top pool and bar. uniquely designed to support in-house wellness activities with the opportunity to participate in siro
rental pool programme. Buyers are also eligible for Montenegro’s Citizenship by investment Programme. (Prices starting from €190,000).
david Margason, the general Manager of Porto Montenegro, comments: “Porto Montenegro is setting an exciting new milestone within next generation developments. We are proud to be reinventing the idea of waterfront living by bringing people from all over the world who are united in their desire to live a life less ordinary.
We designed all our residences as a direct response to the needs of prospective buyers. It provides high end and more affordable properties for discerning buyers who want to be a part of the Porto Montenegro community without ever compromising on quality or amenities.”
Buying a managed residence at Porto Montenegro offers also the rare and exciting chance to participate in the
scheme and gain Montenegrin citizenship. The Montenegrin passport allows free movement across 124 countries and with the country’s planned eu accession by 2025, the holder is eligible to a host of additional benefits. For more information visit portom@rivaglobal.co
COVETED MAGAZINE PAGE 3.
COVETED MAGAZINE PAGE 3.
DESIGNING A LANDMARK
With its sail-shaped design and spectacular infinity pool located on the 55th floor, Aston Martin Residences is set to transform the Miami skyline. Residents can avail themselves of four entire floors of superb facilities and services with breathtaking views of Biscayne Bay, the Miami River and skyline, carefully selected to heal the mind, relax the body and lift the spirit.
Riverwalk East Developments, LLC, a Florida limited liability company is the owner of the property on which the Condominium is to be constructed and the seller of the units in the Condominium and is for purposes of the Florida Condominium Act the “developer” of the Condominium (“Developer”). Developer has engaged G & G Business Developments, LLC. (“G & G”) to assist with the development and marketing of the Condominium and its units and Developer has a limited right to use the trademarked names and logos of G & G. Any and all statements, disclosures and/or representations relating to the Condominium shall be deemed made by Developer and not by G & G and you agree to look solely to Developer (and not to G & G and/or any of its affiliates) with respect to any and all matters relating to the development and/or marketing of the Condominium and with respect to the sales of units in the Condominium. All images and designs depicted herein are artist’s conceptual renderings, which are based upon preliminary development plans, and are subject to change without notice in the manner provided in the offering documents. All such materials are not to scale and are shown solely for illustrative purpose. For New York Purchasers only, the complete offering terms also require reference to that certain CPS-12 Application available from the Offeror under file number CP18-0005. ORAL REPRESENTATIONS CANNOT BE RELIED UPON AS CORRECTLY STATING THE REPRESENTATIONS OF THE DEVELOPER. FOR CORRECT REPRESENTATIONS, MAKE REFERENCE TO THIS BROCHURE AND TO THE DOCUMENTS REQUIRED BY SECTION 718.503, FLORIDA STATUTES, TO BE FURNISHED BY A DEVELOPER TO A BUYER OR LESSEE.
www.astonmartinresidences.com AMResidencesMiami
Developed by G&G Business Developments LLC SALES CENTRE 300 BISCAYNE BOULEVARD WAY, MIAMI, FL
+1.305.573.7333
346 LUXURY LIVING