ILE MAISON MAGAZINE

ISSUE FIFTEEN, WINTER 2023/2024

ILE MAISON --ARTFUL LIVING MEETS WELL-BEING--

PROPERTIES: ILONA LEE

Cipriani Residences Miami 004 Palazzo Volpi Venice, Italy 028 The Murray Hotel, Hong Kong 049 Exclusive Residence in Costa del Sol, Spain 059

LOVE Letter from Editor

PEOPLE: Stefano Cesario 047 Gosia Hajler 042

PLANET

Let's collectively embrace a spirit of renewal & empowerment.

Reevolution by VANDOM 023 Hoverlight -Biophilic Lighting 025 Infinite Maldives 056

WELL-BEING:

ILE MAISON

Less Screen More Dream ~by Loftie 027 Global Wellness Economy Report 019 Global Wellness Summit 2023 021 ILE MAISON Philanthropic initiative 038

As we embark on a new year, I am thrilled to welcome you to the first edition of our magazine in 2024. This year, let's collectively embrace a spirit of renewal, transformation and empowerment.

-ARTFUL LIVING MEETS WELL-BEING-

Editor I Ilona Lee

Just as the dawn brings a fresh start, so can you release the burdens that weigh you down. Let go of the toxic echoes of the past, the clutter that suffocates, and welcome the pure essence of what truly nurtures your soul. This issue is a first step to the profound journey of revitalization—of spaces and selves. Renew the commitment to yourself, your life & your home, reinvent its purpose, and rebuild the very essence of what makes it your haven. From mindful interiors to wholesome artful living, embrace the wisdom to curate an environment that is a sanctuary for your wellbeing.

Contact I phone: +1 917 291 9491 e-mail: info0ilonalee.com www.ilemaison.com

Photo Credits: Cipriani Residences, BARNES International, Murray Hotel, Ile Maison, M. Hajler. Loftie, Sotheby's. GWI.

As you turn these pages, may you find inspiration to cultivate a space that resonates with joy, love, and tranquility. Here's to letting go of what no longer serves us, and embracing what is pure, authentic and good.

Renew. Reinvent. Rebuild. Your journey begins within these pages.

Wishing you a year of newfound freedom and boundless possibilities.

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with Love,

READY TO BUY, SELL OR BOOK YOUR NEXT HOME ?

REAL ESTATE INQUIRIES Contact Ilona Lee with all your global real estate needs.

Ilona is the Founder of Ile Maison, and a licensed international real estate portfolio advisor based in New York City and Palm Beach.

She specializes in luxury properties and has VIP access to extraordinary well-living experiences around the world.

Ilona Lee: email: i.lee@barnes-international.com phone: +1 917 291 9491

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CIPRIANI Residences MIAMI Cipriani Residences Miami invites you to enjoy a life of effortless elegance.

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The Cipriani legacy is a story of culinary excellence, timeless elegance, and a commitment to unparalleled hospitality.

Established by Giuseppe Cipriani in 1931 with the iconic Harry's Bar in Venice, the family's influence has rippled through the world, leaving a mark on the culinary landscape.

Known for crafting the Bellini cocktail and pioneering the concept of carpaccio, the Cipriani name is synonymous with innovation and refined taste.

Beyond gastronomy, the family has extended their legacy to include exclusive clubs, hotels, event spaces, and residences each radiating a sense of sophistication and grace.

With a tradition spanning generations, the Cipriani legacy continues to enchant patrons globally, embodying a timeless pursuit of excellence and an unwavering dedication to creating unforgettable experiences.

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"Cipriani Residences Miami translates four generations of tradition and service into an elegant, relaxing, and comfortable lifestyle." ~ Giuseppe Cipriani

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Masterfully designed

by Arquitectonica & 1508 London

Polished and distinctive, Cipriani Residences Miami epitomizes the timeless elegance for which the brand is so revered.

Crafted by the prestigious design teams of Arquitectonica and 1508 London, homes feel like airy sanctuaries with flowing layouts, exquisite finishes, and stunning vistas.

Cipriani's nautical aesthetic subtly informs details like the curved façade and navy-andwhite palette, while the sun-drenched location inspires indoor-outdoor living that embraces the scenery.

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With 10-foot ceilings, the bright living areas curve gently along the façade, creating a soft, refined ambiance that keeps the focus on the sweeping views.

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From the chic elevated resort deck to spacious residential terraces and private penthouse pools, Cipriani Residences Miami takes full advantage of its tropical location.

Gracious floor-to-ceiling windows fill homes with sunlight and offer magnificent views of Biscayne Bay and the cily skyline.

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Inspired by Italian Riviera Inspired by the Italian Riviera, the effortlessly chic pool deck is both social and serene. Cabanas and sun loungers surround swimming pools on two floors. Residents are invited to go for a dip, relax on the landscaped terrace, and enjoy an alfresco lunch with friends.

Indoor and outdoor spaces flow together naturally with floor-to-ceiling windows and sliding glass doors that frame panoramic views of Biscayne Bay. the Brickell skyline, Simpson Park, and Coconut Grove. In each residence, living rooms and primary bedrooms open onto deep terraces with glass railings for unobstructed vistas.

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Holistic spa with sauna, ice plunge, and treatment rooms, Four-level cycling-focused wellness center and lounge overlooking the Brickell skyline, Luxurious residents' social lounge for special events and intimate gatherings, Private salon available to be reserved for personal beauty services.

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Lounge

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Library

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Cipriani Residences Miami is a steking addition to the Brickell skyline. The 80-story glass tower features a curved, organic form that cascades toward the waterfront; its exterior flows with an easy rhythm that is emblematic of the brand. The sophisticated design extends to the interiors, which evoke a sense of luxury and timeless Italian flair in every aspect.

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Make the sea your favorite place on earth!

Ile Maison partners with Barnes Yachting to offer luxury Yachts and Super yachts to Ile Maison PRIVE members.

From rental on all the world's seas to yacht acquisition and sale, super yacht construction and management, and VIP concierge services, BARNES Yachting provides solutions tailored to each of its clients to guide you and accompany you in all your nautical projects.

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READY TO BUY, SELL OR CHARTER A YACHT?

YACHTING INQUIRIES Contact Ilona Lee with all your yachting needs.

Join Ile Maison PRIVE and get access to bespoke exclusive experiences and offers including yachting and more.

Ilona Lee: email: info@ilonalee.com phone: +1 917 291 9491

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The Global Wellness Economy Reaches a Record $5.6 Trillion—And It’s Forecast to Hit $8.5 Trillion by 2027.

New Global Wellness Institute research reveals a wellness market surging post-pandemic: growing 12% annually since 2020 and reaching a 14% higher value than the previous record year of 2019. With strong tailwinds, it’s forecast to grow another 52% by 2027.

How has the global wellness economy fared since the massive economic shocks of the pandemic? According to a new report released today by the non-profit Global Wellness Institute (GWI) —the only authoritative, comprehensive source of wellness market data—the industry has made one powerful recovery. If the market was worth a record $4.9 trillion in 2019, and then shrank 11% to $4.4 trillion in the pandemic year of 2020, the research indicates that the wellness economy has seen recent, economydefying momentum. It grew 27% since 2020 to reach $5.6 trillion, with 7 of the 11 wellness sectors now surpassing their 2019, prepandemic values. With consumers, the medical world, and governments now placing a much bigger value on prevention and wellness, the GWI forecasts that the wellness economy will grow at an impressive 8.6% annual pace through 2027, when the market will reach $8.5 trillion—nearly double its 2020 size.

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Global Wellness Economy has exceeded our expectations.

We are surprised by the resiliency of the global wellness economy, and how quickly it has bounced back from the pandemic. It has exceeded our own expectations and forecasts,” said Katherine Johnston, GWI senior research fellow.

If the pandemic disrupted industry momentum in the short term, it has simultaneously created a dramatic shift in the long-term opportunities and trajectory for wellness.”

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GLOBAL WELLNESS SUMMIT 2023 Hyatt Hotel, Miami

November 5th -7th 2023

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Global Wellness Summit Welcomes Kohler Co. as Host Sponsor for 18th Annual Conference.

Registration is now open for the 2024 wellness conference taking place November 4-7, 2024 at the Old Course Hotel, Golf Resort & Spa in St. Andrews, Scotland.

The storied Kohler Co. may best be known for its stylish kitchen and bath products, but the company also owns and operates luxury hospitality destinations, including the Old Course Hotel in St. Andrews, Scotland. This extraordinary venue, overlooking the breathtaking Scottish coastline and bordering one of the world’s most famous golf holes, will provide an unforgettable backdrop for the 2024 Global Wellness Summit, where C-suite executives across sectors will gather to collaborate and chart a future course for their businesses.

To register visit: www.globalwellnesssummit.com

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REVOLUTION

by VANDOM We care about our designs and how they come to be. At Vondom, we want to be much more than just a designer furniture brand. We believe we are sufficiently committed and responsible for ensuring a better, more sustainable future. Ecointelligence forms part of our values.

A philosophy based on creating unique, exclusive, and timeless pieces using sustainable, recycled, and recyclable materials based on a firm commitment to innovation and the future.

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PROTECT. INNOVATE. COMMIT. OPTIMIZE.

We have the power to choose the future in which we wish to live. Our goal is to help clean and repair our seas and coasts by making sustainability a part of everything we do.

We convert dumped waste plastics into recyclable products, maintaining the standards of quality, exclusivity, and design for which Vondom is known.

Milos As the motion of a wave, this special white is inspired in the infinity of air bubbles generated at the top of the waves.

A short-lived scenario but eternal at the same time, which is provided to our collections and the Mediterranean decor.

Our pieces are not thrown away, they last forever. We re-imagine the sector by creating collections based on transformation that have a positive impact on the world, both now and in the future.

We fight to effect change on the planet that will allow us to preserve the natural environment for future generations by recycling and optimizing our natural resources.

Cala

A warm color like the rock bed that shapes the limits of the Mediterranean, or the beach sand that waits for the waves.

Soft tones made through the transformation of plastics, which match elegantly at indoor and outdoor spaces.

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Hoverlight -Biophilic Lighting A groundbreaking fusion of acoustic innovation, sustainability, and design, the Hoverlight is a product that seamlessly incorporates lighting into our preserved greenery. Its durable material ensures the longevity of the product while also providing a contemporary aesthetic.

Often forgotten by designers, light plays a crucial role in a space. In a biophilic interior, the lighting design aims to emulate the patterns and cycles of natural light.

The objective is to create a harmonious and healthier environment that connects people with the natural world and enhances their wellbeing. This type of lighting typically involves adjusting its intensity, color temperature, and distribution or can be integrated with plants in order to bring an even more natural atmosphere.

Hoverlight is a suspended lighting fixture featuring an acoustic panel made of preserved foliage, embracing biophilic principles by bringing a touch of the outdoors inside.

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Sound absorbing biophilic lighting At its core, the Hoverlight features a cutting-edge LED module that delivers a soft and diffused up/down light, offering an impressive 2000 Lumen output with a CRI 90+ and temperature options of 2700/3000/3500/4000K. This dual functionality ensures that Hoverlight is not just a lighting solution but a holistic experience that enhances both visual appeal and auditory comfort.

The lamp’s adaptable suspension length allows you to customize its proportions, enabling you to choose the distance that best complements your interior. Offered in two lighting configurations: upward and downward illumination, or exclusively upward.

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Less Screen More Dream ~by Loftie

Loftie Lamp was designed to bring healthier sleep and happier mornings.

In addition to sunrise alarms, sunset dimming, a reading light & adjustable ambient settings, the stylish lamp can be paired with the Loftie clock to enjoy both products’ features.

Loftie is a company dedicated to creating a better tech-life balance. Since technology is only as good as how it makes us feel, they create products that encourage a better sleep, wake system. Their first innovation is the Loftie alarm clock, a revolutionary take on the alarm clock, designed to get your phone out of the bedroom.

Founder and CEO Matt Hassett started Loftie with a mission to help people create more techlife balance in their everyday lives. After doing extensive research, he found that many people struggled to "unplug" from stress-causing technology around bedtime and often diving right into their smartphones first thing in the morning. The Loftie alarm clock was born out of the need to find a solution to people's dependence on their smartphones at home.

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Welcome to

PALAZZO VOLPI Venice, Italy

One of Venice’s Most Prestigious Palaces

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Sotheby’s Paris to Unveil the Interiors of One of Venice’s Most Prestigious Palaces: Palazzo Volpi

200 Lots, Comprising Furniture & Works of Art, from the Collection of the Count & Countess of Volpi di Misurata – Descendants of the Italian Dynasty that Transformed 20th Century Venice.

Birthplace of the Venice Film Festival, the Glamorous Residence Has Played Host to Some of the Greatest Names of the Last Two Centuries Including Winston Churchill, Coco Chanel, Andy Warhol, Cary Grant, Paul Newman, Barbara Hutton, Elizabeth Taylor, Gina Lollobrigida, Harrison Ford & George Clooney.

Auction on 13 February 2024

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One of Venice’s most famous palaces, the Palazzo Volpi was erected on the left side of Venice’s iconic Grand Canal in the 16th century, when Michelangelo himself is said to have visited to admire its frescos.

The magnificent Renaissance residence was acquired in 1917

by Count Giuseppe Volpi di Misurata (1877-1947), the founder of the prestigious Venice International Film Festival (La Mostra), for whom the Volpi Cup prize for the best actor and actress is still named.

Over the course of his lifetime and the generation that has followed, the Count and his family hosted some of the greatest names in the 20th century in the opulent rooms of the palazzo – home to some of the most coveted parties of their time.

On 13 February 2024, Sotheby’s Paris will present the contents of the Palazzo Volpi for the first time. The auction will comprise some 200 lots, including furniture and works of art from the palace’s piano nobile, the main floor containing the portego (a typically Venetian reception room), the ballroom and the music room. The offering will include palatial Roman tables and ballroom banquettes, sopraporta in the style of Jacopo Sansovino, 'Wagner' sofas and evocative Venetian mirrors. The games room will also be under the spotlight, with its exquisite furnishings devised by Maison Jansen – the creator of the period’s most dazzling backdrops.

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Unique Beauty & Taste

Palazzo Volpi has been the beating heart of Venice throughout the 20th century and beyond, and we have had the privilege of sharing many memorable moments with our family and friends within its walls.

The building, despite its grand architecture, always felt very welcoming and provided the perfect backdrop to the collection it housed. By opening the doors of Palazzo Volpi to the world and offering these works of art, we hope that a new generation of collectors will now enjoy its unique beauty and taste and cherish these pieces as much as we did.” ~Count and Countess Volpi di Misurata

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Auction Highlights A set of fourteen Venetian giltwood chairs (est. €80,000-120,000) A pair of Italian giltwood side tables (est. €150,000-300,000) A Venetian Japanese-style console (est. €25,000-40,000) A pair of Venetian mirrors (est. €100,000-200,000) 033

Almost untouched collection, put together almost a century ago

The Palazzo Volpi encapsulates the history of 20th-century Venice and stands as a testament to the vision of its patriarch – Giuseppe Volpi – who saw the Serenissima as a living city, where the traditional and the modern should exist in harmony. I had the pleasure of first meeting his son, Count Giovanni Volpi, in 1998, when Sotheby’s offered the contents of the family’s Roman palace. I was at once struck by the charm and spontaneity of this captain of industry.

It is a thrill to once again have been entrusted by this wonderful family on the sale of this almost untouched collection, put together almost a century ago.” ~Mario Tavella, President, Sotheby’s France and Chairman, Sotheby’s Europe

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Giuseppe Volpi, The Ultimate Venetian was an Italian entrepreneur, politician and diplomat, who was also an ardent patron of the arts.

Aiming to restore Venice to its historic glory, in 1917, he spearheaded the construction of Porto Marghera – one of the most transformative urban and social developments in the city, which comprised a commercial port, an industrial zone and a new residential neighbourhood.

In parallel, he lent his support to several initiatives to raise Venice’s profile on the culture and art scene. In 1929, he took on the presidency of Contemporary Art Biennale and in 1930, launched the first international festivals of music and poetry, as well as theatre and dance biennales.

In 1932, came his crowning glory, the inaugural Mostra – still renowned today as the oldest international film festival. As Venice regained its status as a glittering hub of Culture, Giuseppe Volpi planned gatherings that would bring together royals, the intellectual elite, and the greatest artists of his time: from Josephine Baker and King Fouad of Egypt, to Coco Chanel and the Duke and Duchess of Windsor.

Following Giuseppe Volpi’s death in 1947, his wife Nathalie – known as Lily – continued to entertain the international “bella Gente” and host the famous “Volpi ball”. When Jean Cocteau, Cary Grant, Lauren Bacall, Jacqueline de Ribes, Andy Warhol or Maria Callas were not visiting, Winston Churchill could be seen painting on the Palazzo’s balcony overlooking the Grand Canal or Arthur Rubinstein would be sat at a piano in one of the receptions rooms.

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The Next Generation

Born in 1938, Guiseppe and Nathalie’s son, Giovanni set his mind on honouring his parents’ legacy. A racing car lover in the 1960s, he founded a Venetian racing team Serenissima, becoming one of Ferrari’s best customers and competing in the Formula One. He continued to sponsor the Volpi cups – the awards presented by the Venice Film Festival – and to host the family’s legendary parties. Members of the European royal families, financial and political elites continued to attend, and over the decades have been joined by Hollywood stars, such as Paul Newman, Barbara Steele, Jack Nicholson and George Clooney.

Together with his wife Countess Dominique Volpi di Misurata, Count Giovanni today resides between Venice, Paris and the South of France.

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ILE MAISON LAUNCHES A NEW PHILANTHROPIC INITIATIVE AT THE OPENING OF INGENUE PALM BEACH BOUTIQUE. Ile Maison Philanthropy, a groundbreaking initiative committed to supporting and empowering women in undeveloped countries, celebrated its official launch at the opening of Ingenue - a new fashion boutique in West Palm Beach. The event garnered significant attention and was honored by the presence of esteemed guests, including the Mayor of West Palm Beach.

Ile Maison Philanthropy aims to create economic opportunities for women in underserved regions, fostering a pathway towards independence and selfsufficiency. With a mission to promote women's leadership & entrepreneurship, the organization seeks to enhance the overall well-being of women, preserve diverse cultures, and aid those seeking to escape domestic abuse.

The launch event showcased the commitment of Ile Maison Philanthropy to make a positive impact on the lives of women globally. The boutique's opening marked the beginning of a journey towards creating sustainable change for women in need.

The event's distinguished guests, including the Mayor of West Palm Beach, highlighted the community's support for initiatives that champion women's entrepreneurship and well-being. Their presence underscored the importance of collaborative efforts to drive positive change on both a local and global scale.

As Ile Maison Philanthropy sets its sights on transformative projects, the organization invites individuals, businesses, and the community at large to join hands in creating a lasting impact on the lives of women in under served communities. For more information on Ile Maison Philanthropy and its initiatives, please contact Ilona Lee at info@ilonalee.com.

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Cristina Marulanda, the Owner of INGENUE Palm Beach Keith James, Mayor of West Palm Beach Ilona Lee, Founder & CEO of ILE MAISON

Shop our collection to support female artisans in South America.

Available exclusively at:

Ingénue Palm Beach

410 Evernia St. #111 West Palm Beach, Florida ~

"Female artisans weave their life into each design. Weaving has been likened to prayer and meditation, where the energy and soul of the maker is embedded into the composition and transmitted to the lone who uses it."

"We work directly with the tribes to ensure authenticity of this exclusive Home & Lifestyle collection for Ile Maison community."

- Ilona Lee 039

"We are dedicated to uplifting & empowering women worldwide."

We are thrilled to embark on this journey with Ile Maison Philanthropy, dedicated to uplifting and empowering women worldwide.

Our commitment extends beyond fashion & lifestyle; it is a commitment to creating meaningful economic opportunities and supporting women in their pursuit of independence," - said Ilona Lee, Founder at Ile Maison Philanthropy.

Ingénue is the West Palm Beach's newest fashion destination for exquisite designer special occasion attire, cocktail dresses, and the latest bridal fashion from design ateliers in the USA, Europe and trendy South America that celebrate the grace and elegance of dressing up.

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Ingénue Palm Beach Grand Opening 410 Evernia St. #111 West Palm Beach , Florida

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Meet Gosia, a talented portrait photographer specializing in capturing the timeless beauty of women over 40.

GOSIA HAJLER PHOTOGRAPHER

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Through her lens, she seeks to empower and highlight the inner strength and elegance that comes with age. Gosia's approach goes beyond traditional aesthetics, focusing on authenticity and celebrating the unique stories that each woman carries.

Becoming a photographer has granted me a fresh perspective on the tapestry of everyday life. I find joy in linking people to their past, evoking memories of individuals, places, emotions, and narratives.

Having lived and worked both in Europe and the United States, I've broadened my awareness and gained invaluable experience collaborating with diverse groups of people—an essential element in today's dynamic workplaces.

Her work not only produces stunning images but also fosters a sense of confidence and selflove in her subjects.

My specialization lies in portrait, fashion, and family photography. However, my true enthusiasm lies in capturing the essence of individuals through portraits.

I'm here not just to capture moments but to guide and assist you in selecting the perfect wall art photographs that resonate with your home, infusing it with meaningful memories." ~ Gosia Hajler

"Photography is not just my profession; it's my enduring passion. It serves as a bridge, connecting me with individuals who share an appreciation for art and beauty, much like myself."

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Erica Age 45

Five-time Ironman, graphic designer, and mother of three dragons (daughters). Relentless for word progress.'

The portraits I took have connected me to my beauty as a woman, making me feel glamorous.

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Joella Age 77

Joella is the daughter of Fred Oldfield, a Western artist known for depicting the daily life of the Yakima Indian Reservation. Joella continues to embody the spirit of art and heritage at the art center, carrying forward her father's legacy. Despite experiencing two marriages and becoming a widow, Joella, now at the age of 77, has found love once again. She remains actively engaged, still working and savoring every moment of her life.

Joella's perspective on age is both inspiring and refreshing. She firmly believes that age is irrelevant— it's all about attitude. In the past, she grappled with concerns about her weight, but through the creation of her remarkable portraits, she has experienced a positive transformation. The process has instilled a newfound sense of confidence, reshaping her selfperception and allowing her to embrace her own beauty and vitality. Joella's story is a testament to the transformative power of art and self-love.

Photography M. Hajler

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Sherilynn Age 52

After undergoing my permanent ileostomy surgery, I doubted my ability to love myself, let alone allow others in. However, embarking on a journey of self-discovery revealed that self-love is the cornerstone of a happy and fulfilling life.

Engaging in this photo shoot was a transformative experience, allowing me to see myself through the eyes of others and fully embrace who I am.

Remember, you are stronger than you think you are.

Photography: M. Hajler

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Joanne Age 77

My motto is: 'always tell the truth; it's much easier to keep track of!'

I'm passionate about art and have magnificent collections that bring me joy every moment.

Seeing myself in portraits warms my heart and makes me feel good about myself because I am a piece of art as well.

Photography: M. Hajler

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Stefano is a RIBA qualified architect with an impressive experience within the practice spanning over a decade on a broad spectrum of projects ranging from urban masterplans, architecture, luxury interiors and bespoke details across the world.

STEFANO CESARIO Partner at Foster + Partners

One of his first significant projects was the critically acclaimed Cathay Pacific Airline Business & First Class Lounges in Hong Kong Airport and the fit out of The 5 stars Murray Hotel, also in Hong Kong. Other notable projects are the Hankook R+D Centre in Seoul, DU Headquarters in Dubai and the design of the Business and First-class lounge concepts For Qatar Airways. He led the team from concept to detail design for the interiors of South Quay Plaza, London’s most anticipated new luxury residential tower. More recently he led the interior concept for the award winning Four Seasons Hotel and the detail design of the Lusail Towers, including the Qatar Central Bank new Headquarters and all hospitality interiors for the 2022 FIFA World Cup Stadium.

He is currently working on large scale hospitality projects such as the Shura Island and Laheq Island luxury resorts. He is most recently involved in projects including hotel, residences and urban islands and participated to the winning scheme for the New King Salman Airport & Terminal. Stefano leads teams of interior designers and architects to ensure successful integration of interior disciplines within the wider architectural teams. This enables the team to create a fully holistic design from the inside out as much as from the outside-in.

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Foster + Partners recognizes sustainability as central to any design project and strongly believe it should be considered from the beginning of the project and throughout the design process.

Stefano led a team to create fully bespoke hotel rooms, dining spaces, common areas, furnishings and products at the Murray Hotel in Hong Kong.

Creating a 336-room hotel in Hong Kong, the project involved a major interior refurbishment to the listed building, including new rooftop bars with panoramic views of Central.

The surrounding streetscape was radically improved, and the building was reconnected with the city. Stefano led a team to create fully bespoke hotel rooms, dining spaces, common areas, furnishings and products. Not only was he instrumental in redefining the hotel’s interior experience, but also in the creation of the new urban garden on the hotel’s exterior, completely re-imagining the building’s connection with its urban setting and creating a new icon of Hong Kong.

The Murray Hotel 048

The Murray Hotel

Hong Kong Providing a warm welcome in Hong Kong’s prized and cosmopolitan Central district is The Murray, Hong Kong, where a heritage and architectural gem meets contemporary chic. Towering 26 floors above the prime location in Central, the renowned destination offers 336 guestrooms that provide sophisticated setting for luxury accommodation, alongside unique culinary presentations, wellness and celebrated events.

Lobby at the Murray Hotel

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This major transformation of the building aims to reinvent this abandoned urban quarter – stitching together the urban fabric by linking the large green spaces flanking the site to the east & west.

A former government headquarters tower, the 25-storey Murray Building was originally designed at a time when the city was planned around the car, and consequently stands on an island site, surrounded by roads making it impermeable for pedestrians.

One of the central aims of the project is to reconnect the building with the city at ground level, creating a new street frontage on Garden Road, transparent and welcoming ground floor spaces, and enhancing and extending the landscaped grounds to incorporate a public tai chi area.

At the tower’s base is a sequence of four-storey high arches intersected by a podium, and a vehicle ramp, which is a distinctive feature of the original building. A large historic tree, which rises up through a void in the parking slab of the podium has been liberated and conserved as the centrepiece of the arrivals sequence for guests.

The architecture of the original building is in direct response to the climate of Hong Kong – the windows are recessed and carefully orientated to avoid the harsh tropical sunlight – gaining it an Energy Efficient Building Award in 1994. The design retains the façade while upgrading other aspects of the building and extending the life of the building by introducing a new function appropriate for changing demands of the city – giving it a sustainable legacy for years to come.

The 25-storey tower is characterized by the distinctive pattern of its white façade, which is made up of a grid of square windows. In a fusion of interior and exterior, the inset bays provide a modular unit and organizing principle for the hotel rooms, allowing for a variety of planning options. The upper level suites are angled to create a generous central living space. Luxurious corner suites benefit from spectacular dual-aspect views of the harbour and the peaks and gardens.

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The Murray hotel

CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY AND SUSTAINABILITY A pioneering example of sustainability, each of hotel guestroom features uniquely recessed windows allowing abundant daylight without direct heat from the morning sun, an architectural feature which has won countless awards for ground-breaking and energy efficient design.

Surfaces are covered with rare stones, leather and plush textiles creating sophisticated urban chic sanctuaries in the heart of the city.

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Photography: The Murray hotel

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The Murray hotel

SKY IS THE LIMIT

with Ile Maison Prive Membership.

Ile Maison partners with Barnes Private Aviation to offer private flights to PRIVE members.

Beyond a mere service, BARNES offers you a unique experience: a tailor-made private aviation service designed to meet the demands of a clientele accustomed to the most exclusive offerings.

With several thousand airports dedicated to business aviation worldwide, BARNES Private Aviation manages all your travels.

In France or internationally, for business or leisure, you provide us with your destination, schedule, the number of passengers, and we take care of everything.

Contact: Ilona Lee, info@ilonalee.com 054

READY TO BOOK YOUR PRIVATE FLIGHT?

PRIVATE JET INQUIRIES Contact Ilona Lee with all your private aviation needs.

Join Ile Maison PRIVE and get access to bespoke exclusive experiences including private aviation, yachting and more.

Ilona Lee: email: info@ilonalee.com phone: +1 917 291 9491

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INFINITE MALDIVES Shigeru Ban Architects unveils plans for ‘Infinite Maldives’, the first dedicated resort-residence development in the Maldives.

Infinite Maldives will be a 5hectare resort-residence of 44 over water and beachfront villas designed by Pritzker Architecture prize-winner Shigeru Ban for Sri Lanka’s premium developer Crystal Property Group.

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Located within the Male Atoll 1 island, Infinite Maldives has been designed to embrace the Maldivian vernacular and champion biophilic sustainability through using natural locally sourced materials and timber.

As well as access to the resort style luxury amenities including a fitness centre, spa and wellness facilities, each resident will have a private infinity pool with outdoor lounging space. The structures will be formed around four landscaped gardens designed by landscape architect Michel Desvigne, who has taken inspiration from Sri Lankan gardens such as Lunuganga by Geoffrey Bawa.

“We are proud to be delivering the first resort-residence and one-of-a-kind opportunity in the Maldives, which is a huge milestone for the country and a great achievement for us.

We’re excited to bring our experience in developing high-end properties to this collaboration with The Cocoon Collection, and we’re honoured to be working with the fantastic Shigeru Ban. Between us all, we share the same ethos and ambition to create extraordinary living spaces the harmonise with the environment they sit in and align with the overall spirit of the Maldives.

This is an extraordinary project located in a very special part of the world and alongside it’s home, we believe Infinite Maldives will truly stand as a testament to the wonders of all the island has to offer.” ~Reza Magdon Ismail, CEO of Crystal Property Group

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The Sea & the Green Nature What makes Infinite Maldives unique is that the resort blends in with the sea and the green nature in an ‘infinite’ manner. Conventional resort design usually starts by designing and arranging buildings first and placing water features and vegetation after, using the spaces left between the buildings. For Infinite Maldives, we first considered the resort’s landscape design by carefully defining the relationship between water, land, topography, and vegetation, to make the most of this sense of place. The individual buildings were then carefully designed and placed within the landscape, with a focus on creating continuity and comfort between interior and exterior spaces, including the intermediate area.

To minimize the amount of transport and energy for construction and material production, we use various innovative pre-fabrication methods and focus on applying lightweight materials as well as recycled materials. In contrast to many developments selling ‘sustainability’ just as a label in the commercial sense, our aim is to create a place where people can relax mentally and physically, in harmony with the environment, taking in all its value. This makes the project a true act of sustainability.” Shigeru Ban, Shigeru Ban Architects

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Book a nature-centered home away from home in Spain

& Indulge in the epitome of coastal luxury on the Costa del Sol.

Available for booking for 2024.

Contact: Ilona Lee, info@ilonalee.com.

Indulge in the epitome of coastal luxury with this magnificent 3bedroom and 2 bathroom apartment located in the coveted neighborhood of Carvajal Beach in Fuengirola.

Boasting a prime location with easy access to the beach, the airport, and cultural attractions, this property defines upscale living on the Costa del Sol.

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This luxury 3-bedroom apartment in Carvajal Beach, Fuengirola, combines convenience, elegance, and top-notch amenities.

With its expansive terrace, gourmet kitchen, and seamless connectivity to the beach and nearby attractions, it offers an unparalleled retreat on the dazzling Costa del Sol.

Connectivity: For those looking to explore the region, a local train station is conveniently located a mere 150 meters from the apartment.

This station offers seamless connections to Fuengirola town and Malaga City Center, making it easy to embark on exciting adventures or simply explore the charming local surroundings.

Terrace: Stepping outside, you'll be captivated by the apartment's crown jewel – a sprawling 550-square-foot terrace. This outdoor haven offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea, mountains and the lush surrounding landscape. The terrace features a beautiful seating area, providing an idyllic spot for morning coffees or evening cocktails while soaking in the serene vistas. A dining table for six invites you to savor meals al fresco, and a gas barbecue allows for delightful outdoor cooking experiences.

Local Attractions: This prime location ensures that you're never far from entertainment and dining options. An abundance of restaurants and attractions are within walking distance, making it easy to immerse yourself in the local culture and enjoy the vibrant nightlife.

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This exquisite apartment is ideally situated within a leisurely stroll to the pristine shores of Carvajal Beach, ensuring that the soothing sound of the waves is never far away.

Moreover, its proximity to the Malaga International Airport, a mere 15-minute drive, ensures that your journey to and from this coastal haven is swift and effortless.

Additionally, the allure of Malaga's Historic Center, rich in history and culture, is just a convenient 20-minute drive away.

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Enjoy breathtaking sunsets, the sound of crashing waves, and a constant connection with the blue waters.

Interior: Upon entering this opulent apartment, you'll be greeted by an expansive and tastefully designed living space. The interior is thoughtfully curated with contemporary furnishings and elegant decor, creating an atmosphere of sophistication and comfort.

Amenities: The complex elevates your lifestyle with two sparkling swimming pools, where you can unwind on sunny days or take refreshing dips.

For those with an active lifestyle, a fully equipped gym awaits, ensuring that you can maintain your fitness routine during your stay.

Booking inquiries: Ilona Lee at info@ilonalee.com 062

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Contact: Ilona Lee info@ilonalee.com www.ilemaison.com