Issuu

Luxury properties magazine Winter 20/21

TRENDS GOING INTO 2021: A COUNTRYSIDE / LVMH AND HERлюES: WHO WON HOUSE IS THE NEW / THE GOOD THINGS THAT REMAINED UNCHANGED PERSONAL / COLLECTION OF PRESTIGIOUS HOMES RESIDENCE

editor‘s letter

Mira Lazarova

Здравейте,

а пръв поглед отново сме в същата ситуация, в която се оказахме в началото на март. Но това не е така. Изключително взискателната 2020 година си отива с много уроци. Никой от нас няма да се успокои обаче, докато 2021 не покаже, че сме ги научили. Какво ни се наложи да променим, какво пожелахме никога да не се променя, какво следва: това са няколко въпроса, на които се опитваме да отговорим в новия ни брой. Спокойно, интересно, през историите, които избрахме да разкажем. Жилищният пазар остана във фокуса на инвеститори и купувачи. Кризата с коронавируса насочи все повече хора към покупка или наем на крайградска къща. Марси Росел, главен икономист в Leading Real Estate Companies of the World, разглежда жилищния пазар не само през погледа на инвеститорите, но и през нагласите на крайните купувачи. Според нея тенденции като работата от вкъщи и дистанционното обучение допринасят за атрактивността на жилищния пазар, тъй като много хора се ориентират към по-голям и по-уреден дом. Винаги сме вярвали, че информираният избор превръща нашите читатели в наши клиенти, затова отделете време за анализа на имотния пазар. С екипа ни го подготвяхме сериозно, в него е включена информация и от последната онлайн конференция на Luxury Portfolio. Всеки път списанието ни стига до вас и с най-престижната селекция от първокласни адреси, които, знаем, очаквате с интерес. Пожелавам ви от сърце светли и топли празници, нека годината, която очакваме, да бъде здрава и добра.

Hello,

e seem to be in the same situation right now as the one we were in at the beginning of March. However, this is not the case. The exceptionally taxing year of 2020 is about to end and leave us with many lessons. None of us will become less concerned, however, until 2021 shows we have learned the lessons. What did we have to change, what did we wish to never change, and what follows next: these are a few questions we are trying to answer in our new issue. In a calm and engaging manner, through the stories we opted to tell. Investors and buyers are still paying close attention to the real estate market. The coronavirus crisis is driving more and more people into buying or renting houses in the outskirts of the city. Marcy Roselle, head economist at Leading Real Estate Companies of the World, looks at the real estate market not only from the viewpoint of investors, but also that of the end buyer. According to her, trends like work from home and distance learning are making the housing market more attractive since a lot of people are looking for bigger and better homes. We have always believed that informed choice turns our readers into clients, so why not set aside some time for the detailed analysis of the housing market that our team prepared for you, including abundant information from the last Luxury Portfolio International online conference. Our magazine also always arrives with the most prestigious selection of addresses that we know you anticipate with interest. I sincerely wish you a lot of light and warmth during the holidays and may next year be healthy and good. You could read the magazine in English here: www.ues.bg/en/magazine

U E S . B G +359 882 700 100

WINTER 2020-2021

08 THE RESIDENTIAL MARKET IS IN THE CROSSHAIRS OF BOTH INVESTORS AND FINAL BUYERS

WE ARE THE SAME, OR THE GOOD THINGS THAT HAVE REMAINED UNCHANGED

WELCOME TO THE HOME OF FUTURE!

HOW HERMÐƒS ESCAPED THE LVHM LOOP AND THRIVED

AT THE HOUSE OF WINE

Editor-in-Chief: Mira Lazarova Properties editor: Magdalena Velikova Proofreader: Tsvetana Georgieva Design: Deyan Panayotov, HiEnd Publishing Prepress and printing: HiEnd Publishing Advertising Manager: Vessela Sopotlieva vsopotlieva@ues.bg / +359 887 487 388

Cover: Exclusive apartment in the center of Sofia, part of the portfolio of Unique Estates Photographer: Minko Minev Design: Kristina Kostadinova

ETIQUETTE DURING COVID-19

TEODORA NIKOLOVA: ARCHITECTURE AND DESIGN ARE CAPABLE TO ENGENDER STORIES, ELATION AND INSPIRATION

SELECTION OF LUXURY PROPERTIES

Editorial team: Elena Marinova Ivan Bonev Lora Petrova Radostina Markova Ralitsa Stoyanova Sanya Anraudova Sylvanna Vassileva Stoyan Toshev Teodora Nikolova

Publisher: Unique Estates Media part of

Editorial office address: Sofia, 17, Patriarh Evtimiy blvd. Circulation: 7000 copies

The editorial office is not responsible for the content of advertising materials. Any use of editorial materials may be made only with the written permission of the publisher.

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Market trends

THE RESIDENTIAL MARKET IS IN THE CROSSHAIRS OF BOTH INVESTORS AND FINAL ВАBUYERS

M A N Y A N A LY S T S EXPECT THE SEGMENT TO HOIST THE PROPERTY MARKETS OFF THE CRISIS. T H E C O R O N AV I R U S C R I S I S I S I N C R E A S I N G LY DRIVING BUYERS TO PURCHASE OR LEASE A HOUSE IN THE COUNTRYSIDE

Market trends

AT T I M E S O F U N C E R TA I N T Y A N D A R A P I D LY C H A N G I N G E N V I R O N M E N T I N V E STO R S T Y P I C A L LY S E E K S A F E R H A R B O U R S F O R T H E I R M O N E Y. T H I S I S E X A C T LY T H E K I N D O F S I T U A T I O N T H E Y H AV E B E E N FA C I N G I N T H E PA S T F E W M O N T H S A S C O R O N AV I R U S A N D R E L AT E D D E V E L O P M E N T S T O O K C E N T R E S TA G E . T H U S , M A N Y F U N D S A N D P R I VAT E B U Y E R S H AV E B E E N F O R C E D T O R E V I S E T H E I R S T R AT E G I E S AND PUT THEM ON THE T R AC K TO LOW E R R I S K A N D H I G H E R C A P I TA L G A I N S P OT E N T I A L. W E L L D I V E R S I F I E D P O R T F O L I O S A R E A L S O PA R T O F S U C H A S T R AT E G Y S I N C E I N A D D I T I O N TO B U S I N E SS PROPERTIES THE MIX INCLUDES A LT E R N AT I V E I N V E S T M E N T S SUCH AS RESIDENTIAL B U I L D I N G S, H OT E L S, ST U D E N T D O R M I TO R I E S, E TC. By Radostina Markova

BrickVest is a London-based platform for online investments in real estate. Founded in 2014, the company provides a wide range of opportunities addressed to smaller investors rather than the usual stack of institutional players. Since February this year the company is owned by Patrizia, a German investment management company. Since September BrickVest has been operating under the brand name BV Markets (BrickVest Markets). The platform traditionally publishes Commercial Real Estate Trends — a poll among more than 350 companies and funds. The new edition covers the entire year 2019 as well as the first half of 2020.

INVESTOR ATTITUDES According to Brickvest’s Super Barometer poll which looked at the global trends in the property market, residential properties in 2019 and the first half of 2020 account for the largest share of investor’s portfolios, namely 27 %. This includes assets which, rather than for the buyer’s own use, are acquired for the purpose of generating rent income and reaping capital gains on the assumption that their price will be increasing over time. In the opinion of Brickvest, both before and now residential properties attract interest primarily from smaller funds with less than EUR 100 million of assets under management. The larger players in this market tend to rely on office and retail spaces in order to balance their mix.

27% IS THE SHARE OF RESIDENTIAL PROPERTIES IN INVESTORS’ PORTFOLIOS ACCORDING TO THE BRICKVEST SURVEY’, SAYS VESSELA ILIEVA, MANAGING PARTNER AT UNIQUE ESTATES. The mixed-use properties, which include a combination of retail, office, residential, hotel or other components are also on the radar of investors. Indeed, since 2018 this asset class has increased its share in investment portfolios from 16 to 18 %. These attitudes among investors make sense in light of the changes which coronavirus has brought about in the property and financial markets during the recent months. The expectations for increasing share of from-home workers and the demand for flexible workspace models have changed the traditional perception of office buildings as sources of steady and long-term yields. The same processes are observed with retail spaces as e-commerce is increasing its share of the market and revenue-based rents are expected to gain momentum, albeit as an interim solution. The Brickvest poll corroborates this trends by demonstrating that investors are primarily focused on the capital gains from their portfolios — this is the priority for 45 % of the respondents. The second most important objective is ongoing revenues from rent payments, as is the case for 38 % of the respondents. Liquidity and tax optimisation opportunities come third and respectively fourth. Dr. Paul Kennedy, Managing Director of JPMorgan Asset Management, also highlights this trend by making a reference to an increasing equitization of business properties. This means that investors would place less reliance on current cash flows as a source of regular and long-term income and instead would bet to a larger extent on growing asset values. This in turn calls for flexible and proactive management as revenues will be more sensitive to changes in the market environment. Following this train of thought, Dr. Paul Kennedy predicts that in future logistics will be increasing its weight as a key asset in investors’ portfolios at the expense of office and retail space. The drivers include the increasing role of e-commerce and the optimisation of supply chains, meaning that warehousing and product handling processes will have a key role to play.

U E S . B G +359 882 700 100

Market trends

If we continue along this path of logic, we have a good reason to foresee a new and more central role for residential buildings. Traditionally, the income-bearing potential of residential buildings is considered less high and less secure as lease contracts are typically shorter. On the other side however, their potential to generate steady income and the higher collection rate of rent installments make them a key asset at times like the ones we are living through. FINAL BUYERS Marci Rossell, Chief Economist of Leading Real Estate Companies of the World, looks at the residential market not only from the lens of investors, but also through the prism of final buyers’ expectations. She believes that trends such as work from home and remote learning boost the attractiveness of the residential market as many people need larger spaces. Her analysis demonstrates that uncertainty and economic turbulence increase the propensity to save. ‘People have always used three main ways to save their money — cash, stocks and real property‘, comments Dr. Rossell. Project developers are already responding to this trend and in many developed markets there are examples where business buildings, while they are still on the drawing board, are converted to residential or mixed-use projects. As regards in-demand locations, the tide is changing, too. In recent months, the traditional preference of buyers for homes near the office or the workplace is giving way to demand for suburban or countryside houses.

Dr. Marci Rossell is a Chief Economist of Leading Real Estate Companies of the World. A former CNBC Chief Economist and leading financial journalist, she is among the most prominent speakers on topics such as economics, politics, culture and media. In 2002 she earned a Doctor degree at Southern Methodist University where she was also distinguished as one of the most promising alumni of her grade.

T R A D I T I O N A L LY, T H E I N C O M E - B E A R I N G P O T E N T I A L O F R E S I D E N T I A L BUILDINGS IS CONSIDERED LESS HIGH AND LESS SECURE AS LEASE C O N T R A C T S A R E T Y P I C A L LY S H O R T E R . O N T H E O T H E R S I D E H O W E V E R , T H E I R P O T E N T I A L T O G E N E R AT E S T E A D Y I N C O M E A N D T H E H I G H E R C O L L E C T I O N R AT E O F R E N T I N S TA L L M E N T S M A K E T H E M A K E Y A S S E T AT T I M E S O F C R I S I S . ‘For many people, buying or leasing such a property is kind of an ‘escape plan’ in case the coronavirus situation escalates,’ summarised it Vessela Ilieva, Managing Partner at the luxury properties company Unique Estates. She considers that demand for properties near the city margins is a global trend which in recent months has been observed in the Bulgarian market as well. In Sofia, buyers have been setting their sights on areas which are relatively new for the luxury segment such as Lozen and Zheleznitsa. Unique Estates respond to this demand, among other things, with an option for medium-term leases, namely for a period between three and six months. This is midway between AirBnB-type short-term leases and one-year contracts, although take-up among home owners has been slow to date.

Market trends

Vessela Ilieva puts it in a nutshell: ‘Most owners expect at least a full-year contract and are reluctant to accept tenants for a few months. However, supply in the market is presently high and more reasonable owners prefer this type of lease to the alternative of keeping a vacant property’. Unique Estates have observed this type of demand not only for houses, but also for apartments downtown Sofia. In many cases the prospective clients are people who either work from home and need more living space, or wish to isolate their elderly parents for some time. A lease option in such cases are former AirBnB apartments whose owners are amenable to leasing them for periods longer than a couple of days or one week.

IS THERE A DANGER FROM PRICE BUBBLE

The inflator of real estate bubbles has always been a baseless spike of prices, most often spurred by strong speculative interest. While home prices have risen significantly in recent years, analysts do not see a property bubble risk at the moment.

‘Unlike the market we had in 2008 — 2009, buying activity now is not a reason to fear a property bubble. The reason is the limited share of speculative deals as opposed to those which resolve actual housing requirements. This in turn functions as a brake which prevents prices from soaring to unrealistically high levels’, says Dr. Rossell.

Vessela Ilieva observes that since the spring of 2020 prices have largely remained flat and buyers in the luxury segment have to a certain extent stayed at the sidelines. ‘In recent months however, activity as measured by inquiries and home tours has been returning to last year levels, which is a good signal from the market. Meanwhile, many planned projects have been put on hold for the time being, which will counterbalance supply in the medium term’, concludes Ms Ilieva.

U E S . B G +359 882 700 100

Advertorial

DESIGN UNDER A COMMON DENOMINATOR WITH A THIRTYYEAR HISTORY

A new design dedicated space opened its doors at 17, Sveta Gora Street in Sofia. A natural continuation and a step forward for two companies with a common origin, which went on their own way and today decided to reunite. In the early 90’s Mrs. Mariana Chalakova changed the Bulgarian lighting market by introducing locally the leading lighting manufacturers Zumtobel and Bega, which have always been symbols of uncompromising quality and design. Started as a design studio for supply of lighting fixtures and systems, later it grew up to a company with a large international portfolio of architectural lighting, quality carpets, textiles, furniture and other interior elements not available on the market at that time. Mariana Chalakova had everything needed to provide a brand-new approach to the local market - innovative and time saving service all in one stop shop - from inspiration, to consulting and overall implementation. Thus, City Design Development (CDD) turned to a leading interior consultant and contractor, preferred partner for architects, designers and individuals looking for intelligent solutions and expertise. Seven years ago, a subsidiary Light Factor was born - a logical continuation for the business of lighting which took its own path. The company offers complete lighting services with most recent examples - design and implementation of the facade lighting for Hyatt Regency Hotel in Sofia and the renovated Bulgaria Hotel in the city of Burgas. ——light+living

Mariana Chalakova

Thirty years of professional experience and expertise in the field of corporate, interior and lighting design now join together at a new location -17, Sveta Gora Street under the motto “light + living”.

visits; it is available to anyone who is passionate about emotion, vision and delicate detail in our environment and has a desire to live and enjoy a beautiful home.

The showroom was born by the team’s desire to create a unique, elegant and functional space where both companies’ portfolios could be shown and highlighted in the best way. Customers could spend pleasant time, taking their interior decisions easily, navigated trough the portfolio by the team’s experts.

You will be welcome by the team who is ready to answer your questions and offer specific solutions and ideas. The main goal is to add value to the environment with high level functional and sustainable design.

The concept behind the interior of the showroom is simple and functional– changing dynamically like the world around us. The place can be easily transformed for mock-ups - living room, hotel room, manager’s office or whatever is needed, helping the client to make the best choice. As for the lighting of the space, it is designed to demonstrate and perform different kinds of functionality and solutions. I/O Architects, ZOOM Studio, arch. Tatiana Glebova - some of the most famous architects in Bulgaria, they all contributed to the end result. The showroom could be used for professional meetings with clients, discussions about urban environment, lifestyle and architecture, as well as for trainings of young generation of designers and architects on topics related to lighting, acoustics and furniture. The space is equipped with the latest technologies for presentations and virtual

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Stories

WE ARE THE SAME, OR THE GOOD THINGS THAT HAVE REMAINED UNCHANGED By Teodora Nikolova

Just as I was sharpening my pencil for this article, I ran across a video about a place we always perceive as awash in vibrant and sparkling apple sweetness â€” New York, subdued as it is now. One story in that video was about Celine Kaplan, a Parisienne who 30 years ago crossed the ocean on the call of love and founded a successful public relations agency. Now, in the wake of enormous difficulties of various nature caused by the pandemic, she is packing her things and leaving her favourite city. I was listening to her story and watching her walk in the glistening open space of her apartment with its huge windows letting in Manhattan skylines. My naturally trained eye was capturing old and modern art on the walls, antiquarian mirrors and candelabra, books, albums, furniture ranging from Eero Saarinen and Philippe Starck to traditional Chinese chairs and stools. Now thatâ€™s the point, I said to myself. While this story appears to be about a sorrowful change, what lies at its heart is the idea of things that never change. Because wherever Celine goes, she will carry this world of beauty and passionate luxury with herself and will be looking to populate new spaces with it. It is part of what Celine actually is and nothing can take it away.

Stories

In September the défilé which presented Spring 2021, Ready-to-Wear collection of 86-year old King Giorgio was broadcast free-on-air by one of the leading Italian TV channels, La7, to make it open for the broader audience. Yes, this happened for the first time. And yes, the traditional VIP front row was not there to applaud the models. But the belief that Beauty will Save the World was there, unchanged and reiterated. Speaking to journalists before the event, Armani paraphrased it by saying ‘I prefer to think that we can keep hell at bay’. Unchanged was also his ingenious perception of elegance, this time expressed in silk suits and an organza of pastel nuances of dove wings, sand dunes and skies. As the design guru put it himself, ‘Giorgio Armani has never been about dressing well in the conventional sense. Giorgio Armani has been about timeless elegance which complements and expresses people’s characters. And this remains unchanged.’ The name of the show, Timeless Thoughts, also contains this time-challenging word. Can anyone imagine that a world which has cherished eternal thoughts would not keep certain things unchanged, whatever happens? One of these things is the never-changing power of an Armani suit to induce a desire. В М И Л А Н С К И Я А П А Р ТА М Е Н Т Н А Л У Ч А Н А И Д Ж А Н И

В М И Л А Н С К И Я А П А Р ТА М Е Н Т Н А Л У Ч А Н А И Д Ж А Н И

On an April day of the last ‘usual’ spring, I was sipping icy Prosecco with Luciana and Gianni, the tandem of designers behind Veneziano+Team, in their Milan apartment. The chat was about their propensity to change places in pursuit of the indulgence to explore the love affair between culture and beauty. Neither they nor I — venerating the sophisticated combination of loft, extravagant boudoir and Puglia-inspired green oasis of the living room — suspected that the Venezianos would have to spend the next spring locked here. Recently Luciana wrote in fb: ‘In the summer of the year called 2020, in which everybody’s or nearly everybody’s life changed, I discovered Paul Simon’s album Graceland. To me this is a manifesto of a new paradigm which rediscovers the roots and mixes in a new way our knowledge and cultural focuses. Because it is time for new sunrises.’ In relation to his album, Paul Simon himself said in 1987: ‘The world is balancing between hope and fear. I want to be on the side of hope.’ Yes, the Earth is quiet now, the wonderful sound of huge concerts is lacking, but the music is there to be discovered. And the endeavour to do so. If these are here, then something very important has remained unchanged.

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Stories

С ТОЛ ЪТ M A E S T R O Н А Л И Й Б РУ М

Lee Broom, one of the most respected British talents by the definition of The Financial Times, whose designs speak the enchantingly modern language of luxury, presented in September his new pearl, the Maestro chair. Yes, he did this virtually. But does it matter at all in light of the magnetic silhouette of the chair which intertwines two eternal cultural phenomena — mid-century design and classical music. (The metal shapes on the back of the chair are borrowed from the curves of wald-horn and violin. They also remind me of Salvador Dali’s Leda table — the one which rests on a shoe). Thus, the chair makes wonderful aesthetic and emotional references to eternal timeless values. The virtual presentation comes in a five-minute video depicting 30 musicians of The Parallax Orchestra sitting

on Maestro chairs arranged in accordance with the new distancing rules. In a red-and-black ambience, the cutting edge of this style, in which the only flashing elements are brass elements of the chairs and violin bows, the orchestra plays pieces of Grieg, Debussy and Haydn. Watching the video makes you remember putting on your pearls or tuxedo before going to La Scala or Metropolitan. You experience the same excitement. And a desire to play the vinyl with your favourite opera. Because opera remains unchanged, and so does the excitement elicited by it and the power of a chair to illuminate with its timeless beauty a living room, an afternoon or a meeting.

light + livin

Welcome to our new space at 17, Sveta Gora Str., 1164 Sofia _

Stories

In the online version of the Frame magazine, I spotted these days a title: Seven ways to make ‘these four walls’ more exciting. Some may get a knee-jerk — What a cliché! Yes, a plain title, and quite to-the-point, because the article was about seven nice wall linings. But it can also be perceived as an insight — our link with the space surrounded by ‘these four walls’ — or our living space, to put it in other words — remains unchanged no matter what. And never loses its importance. Because we will always need it and endeavour to establish the harmony which best expresses our character and engulfs us in emotion. (Even the name of the new museum of modern and contemporary art in Foshan, China — the new architectural bijou of Tadao Ando — is He Art Museum. The He symbol in Chinese denotes the notion of harmony. While it is true that the hieroglyph contains the name of the private collector part of whose collection is the museum, the meaning and the message go well beyond. And, the architectural genius of Ando expresses it by planes, volumes and light which in their entirety give the impression of a spilling wave.) With unchanged endeavour for harmony in our space, this year we will yet again set with excitement the first fire in the fireplace, will install Christmas decorations, will share the happy and sad experiences with our loved ones, again there, in our space, will open our favourite wine, will look at our favourite albums, will bring new treasures in and dispense of others… Because, in the end of the day, we stay the same. In ill and well.

The best choice!

MALDIVES PAUSE

ZANZIBAR ADVENTURES

DUBAI EXPLORE Sofia, 13 Veslets str., office 6 Tel: +359 2 465 05 65; Mobile: +359 890 34 34 59 E-mail: sofia@luxutour.com; www.luxutour.com

Advertorial

SO FLEXIBLE. SO POWERFUL. SO FAST:

THE NEW MIELE TRIFLEX HX1 M I E L E L AU N C H E S G LO B A L C A M PA I G N W I T H A E R O B AT I C S WO R L D C H A M P I O N

Miele, the premium domestic appliance manufacturer, is setting new standards in the booming market for rechargeable handsticks with its first offering in this sector. The global product campaign is now under starter‘s orders with an attention-grabbing testimonial: In launching its Triflex HX1, the company is partnering with Aude Lemordant, the triple aerobatics world champion. The focus of the campaign is the exceptional flexibility, powerful suction and faster cleaning of the rechargeable handstick. The creative idea is the work of DDB Düsseldorf. With the new Triflex HX1 campaign, Miele is building on the storytelling platform #LifeBeyondOrdinary, first initiated in 2018. In this context, the premium brand is advertising its first rechargeable handstick in collaboration with the aerobatics pilot Aude Lemordant. The French sportswoman, 37, won her first title at the FAI World Championship in 2013 in the individual, freestyle and team disciplines. Since then, she has been chasing ever new records, last year winning her third world singles championship. “With her ambition to constantly rise above herself and achieve the seemingly impossible, Aude is the perfect ambassador for our brand and, more specifically, for our innovative rechargeable handstick”, says Dominic Worsley, Director Global Marketing with the Miele Group Alongside unbounded freedom, this also expresses the flexibility, power and speed which so characterises the Miele Triflex HX1. Its unique design combines three vacuum cleaners in one – along with powerful suction and faster cleaning. Thanks to Miele Vortex Technology and an extra wide electrobrush, suction on the Triflex is as powerful as on the company‘s most powerful corded vacuum series. For good and fast deep cleaning on all surfaces, the electrobrush‘s suction power adjusts automatically to floor coverings. The replaceable rechargeable battery allows up to 60 minutes of work. The Triflex HX1 Pro flagship model comes standard with a spare rechargeable battery which increases uptime to as much as 120 minutes. More information: www.miele.bg

Technologies

WELCOME TO THE HOME OF FUTURE! By Stoyan Toshev

HOW THE GLOBAL PANDEMIC CHANGED HOMELINESS AND ACCELERATED PROGRESS WITH TECHNOLOGIES

The recent unexpected vacation, which made us spend this springtime anchored at home, will certainly remain in history. Unless it is repeated soon, the period of isolation which the whole world imposed on itself has had very interesting implications. While these are yet to be assessed, it is already certain that technology has a crucial role in keeping our society up and running at times of â€˜locked gatesâ€™ and strict quarantine. Plus, technology will have a far reaching impact long after the COVID-19 crisis remains only an episode of history, because the comfort of our homes hinges on technology. In fact, one of the most unexpected effects of the Coronacrisis has been the exceptional surge of certain technologies in combination with the surprising discovery that our home may well turn out to be the most convenient office, among other things. Here are several ways in which the pandemic changes our homes and catalyzes progress in certain high-tech areas:

HOME OFFICE AND REMOTE LEARNING HAVE ALREADY BECOME PART OF OUR DAILY LIFE

In the matter of a few months, a huge number of companies let their staff work from home most of the time. Transition to working from home occurred smoothly owing to fast-speed modern connectivity and technologies: virtual private networks (VPN), advanced voice-over-internet protocols (VoIP), virtual conferences in hit-making platforms such as Zoom, Microsoft Teams and Skype, file sharing through cloud-based technology, software for collaborative work (Trello, ClickUp). Videoconferencing software applications have become even more sophisticated as they can easily recognize human faces against a virtual background which protects the privacy of your home and ambience. Home office and remote learning help prevent the spread of viruses, not to mention the time saved by not doing the daily travel to and from work/school. By mid-April, 191 countries had already imposed temporary lockdown of schools and universities, which affected 1.57 billion schoolchildren and students! Educational institutions responded by offering online lessons to ensure that quarantine measures do not disrupt education. The technologies involved in remote learning include, among other things, cuttingedge advancements such as virtual/augmented reality, 3D printing and even robotic teachers with Artificial Intelligence (AI) features. While not all of these are available in Bulgaria, learning from home was easily adopted in our country, too.

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Technologies

SHOPPING FROM A KITCHEN STOOL ACTUALLY BECAME EASIER

NEW BUILDINGS ARE POPPING FASTER OWING TO 3D AND

Maybe not everyone remembers how the outbreak of the SARS pandemic in 2002 led to a surge of online business platforms in China and across the world. Those times saw the birth of huge empires such as Alibaba. The employees of the startup company (at that time) found themselves locked at their homes, which actually motivated and boosted the efficiency of the creative Asians, triggering the fastest growth of the company. They took advantage of the situation in order to develop a perfectly functioning ‘offline engine’ even before the era of social media and videoconferencing, and ended up as a giant multibillion company.

3D printing technology offers incredible manufacturing flexibility: a single printer can produce a variety of products only on the basis of 3D model files and available materials. Thus, printing technology becomes increasing widespread in the building industry, and indeed many conceptual projects for Mars or Moon bases rely on 3D printing (construction). This new technology is now used for making entire buildings such as the city hall in Dubai which was built only a few months ago! Engineers assert that the printing of entire buildings will save both significant financial resources and time. Modular construction is also gaining momentum. There is some similarity with the buildings made of prefabricated concrete panels or cubes. The difference is that entire sections of a building are fabricated and fitted out at a factory (e.g. a fully equipped bathroom) before they are added am bloc to the final building. This approach helps shorten construction times as well as reduce harmful emissions and wastage of materials.

MODULARITY

SEEING A DOCTOR … FROM AN ARMCHAIR AT YOUR HOME!

Even in Bulgaria, general practitioners have become used to scheduling visits in advance so that to avoid clustering of patients at the doors of their medical offices. Social isolation has made remote diagnostics and telemedicine a reality. Medical practitioners are using every available modern and efficient way in order to mitigate the spread of coronavirus by providing timely and adequate medical care — remotely! IoT wearables (e.g. Huawei smart watches) have become part of the process. The ultimate Huawei product, GT2 Pro, is even able to monitor crucially important health status indicators, such as stress levels, heartbeat and even oxygen content in the blood! Dedicated software products such as chatbots are able to make initial diagnoses on the basis of symptoms shared by patients, thus reducing unnecessary face-to-face visits at the doctor’s office and the associated risks. DIGITAL AND PROXIMITY PAYMENTS ARE ALREADY PREFERRED TRANSACTION MODES

Similarly, in the matter of weeks the 2020 crisis transformed online shopping from an enjoyable option to a strategically irreplaceable and most preferred way of purchasing goods across the globe. E-commerce websites were quick to improve their services and organisation, found ways for contactless delivery of their goods, and minimised the risk of virus transmission as products can be collected from an agreed location rather than delivered directly in your hands. Chinese e-commerce giants even accelerated the development of deliveries by robots and drones — something on which the top site Amazon has been working for years. However, suppliers should establish clear rules for protecting the sanitary condition of their supplies before robotized deliveries can become ubiquitous.

In addition to enabling you shop safely in your sleepers from the comfort of your home, digital technology helps combat infections at another level — you do not have to touch anything even when you are outside or in a brick-and-mortar store! Since money (paper notes or metal coins) can easily carry live viruses for longer periods, many banks throughout the world apply a variety of measures to ensure that their customers will not get infected. Yes, the best thing to do is avoid physical contact with money and all banks have respected this precaution. Thus, contactless digital payments by wireless cards, telephones of even watches with RFID (NFC) chips and e-wallets have become a preferred if not mandatory mode of payment. For many years, digital commerce has enabled us shop easily and quickly online, and pay bills for goods, services and utilities. But in the new normal this mode of payment is a priority.

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Technologies

ROBOTS, DRONES AND 5G CONNECTIVITY

THE ONLINE TELEPORTATION OF ENTERTAINMENT

Going to concerts, cinema theatres or large events has become a taboo due to the tightened social isolation measures. But in their pursuit for relaxation and partying people automatically embarked on the advantages offered by the Web. Events such as live online concerts, rave parties in the cloud, streaming of joint concerts of musicians from different parts of the world have become a modern daily routine. Innovative companies such as Oda went to even greater lengths by creating Bluetooth loudspeakers which, for a seasonal subscriptions, offer live online streaming exclusively for you from 20 celebrity performers or bands. As if at live concert, but at your home. Not to mention the movie streaming platforms, which have seen an unprecedented boom. Even museums and international cultural sites offer online tours for you, comfortably stretched in your bedroom. The gaming world is bursting with energy as the number of gamers and seekers of all sort of entertainment is skyrocketing. The expected launch of new-generation consoles from Playstation 5 and Xbox Series in the next days will add more fuel to this super reactive mixture.

COVID-19 has made people realise how much they rely on human interaction to make things work. Labour-intensive sectors such as commerce, food, manufacturing and logistics are among the most heavily affected ones. The crisis however catalysed the faster and wider introduction of robots and intense robotics-related R&D. Increasingly frequent are media reports for the employment of robots (e.g. from Boston Dynamics) for disinfection of spaces, supply of food to quarantined people and even as some sort of sanitation workers. Drones are being taught to walk dogs or as noted already, are actively tested to make the dream of Jeff Bezos and Amazon come true — create the perfect flying courier. However, all these technological developments inevitably rely on steady, high-speed and ubiquitous Internet connectivity. In this regard, an improved technology known as 5G is increasingly demonstrating its relevance for the future. It provides ultrafast wireless connectivity to support the rising trend of technological advancements, although it is still struggling with prejudices in Europe and beyond. The massive uptake of 5G technologies in the near term will reduce the price of 5G-enabled devices, the expenses for mobile data plans, and will connect to the Internet more and more people and devices across the globe. What is the best aspect of this situation? 5G can benefit modern homes, increasingly pervaded by smart devices as they are. Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa will be increasingly helpful butlers which will control for us lighting, heating, cleanness and even food stocks in the refrigerator. Electronic devices at your home will ‘sense’ that you are coming back soon and will make the scene for this happy everyday event by setting the right temperature in the rooms, warming up the food remotely or even preparing the news you want to read while having your dinner. Withal, all those examples are already … a reality rather than fantasy. Welcome to the home of future!

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Beneteau GT50 Length: 15.78 m, Width: 4.40 m, Max. speed: 52 km/h, Cruise speed: 37 km/h Beneteau First Yacht 53 Length: 17.12 m, Width: 5.00 m, Max. speed: 9.5 km/h, Height of the mast: 26.68 m ——CAPELLI and your unforgettable moments. Endless variety of RIB models with easy control, perfect performance and safety in your wet adventures. Designed in such a way, that every owner will receive the perfect distribution of space on board, surrounded by comfort and luxury. www.cantiericapelli.com

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World

HOW HERMÃˆS ESCAPED THE LVHM LOOP AND THRIVED By Ralitsa Stoyanova

World

IN THE AUTUMN OF 2010, THE E N D O F A N E R A WA S LO O M I N G I N PA R I S. A F T E R 173 Y E A R S A N D S I X G E N E R AT I O N S I N B U S I NESS, THE TIME HAD COME FOR H E R M È S TO B E CO M E PA R T O F LV M H . T H E M A S T O D O N W H I C H OFFERS ANYTHING FROM CHAMPAG N E TO E V E N I N G D R E SS E S, H O M E O F M O Ë T, L O U I S V U I TTON, CHRISTIAN DIOR AND MANY OTHERS, HAD ACQUIRED A 1 7 % S TA K E I N H E R M È S , W I T H AN APPETITE FOR MORE

Patrick Thomas, the CEO of Hermѓs at that time, will learn that his company is under assault by the largest competitor only two hours before the rest of the world while riding a bicycle in the French Alps. He will get a telephone call right from the LVMH President, Bernard Arnault. Thomas will reply angrily ‘The way to seduce a beautiful lady is not by hitting her in the back’. Arnault is known as The Wolf in Cashmere — a well-deserved nickname for his ability to acquire businesses which he admires. Analysts predict that it would take him only a few weeks to devour his elegant prey. Ten years later, the descendants of Thierry Hermѓs have not only retained control on their corporation, but have beaten LVMH in its own game. One of them, Axel Dumas, even managed to get back behind the steering wheel. Mr Arnault has disappeared from the book of Hermès shareholders. The wrestling between Hermѓs and LVMH for control on the corporation, described by Thomas as ‘the battle of our generation’, dates back to the early years of this millennium. Here is a brief timeline of the events:

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World

2001–2002: LVMH acquires an initial stake of 4.9 % in Hermѓs through subsidiaries. 2007: LVMH continues to stockpile Hermѓs stock through financial intermediaries and subsidiaries, but so that each acquirer holds less than 5 %. French companies are obligated to disclose acquisitions worth more than 5 % of the equity of another company if the target is listed at the stock market. 23 October 2010: LVMH announces, much to the surprise of markets, that the corporation has acquired a 14.2 % stake in Hermès, but maintains that no acquisition is intended. The French authorities open an investigation on this account. December 2010: In a self-defense move, Hermès establishes a private holding which owns 50.2 % of the corporate stock. The heirs have an option to refuse in case a family member decides to sell stock. 5 June 2013: Hermѓs appoints Axel Dumas, member of the private holding of the brand, as a Co-CEO. The Chief Executive Officer Patrick Thomas announces his intention to retire in 2014. 19 June 2013: Hermѓs files another lawsuit against LVMH seeking the invalidation of the share swaps which Hermès said were used by LVMH secretively in order to acquire a minority stake. Hermѓs described this maneuver as the ‘the largest fraud in the history of the French stock market’. LVMH is ordered to pay a fine of USD 10.4 million. 3 September 2014: Following the intervention of the French court, LVMH undertakes to distribute its 23 % stake in Hermѓs to its shareholders and institutional investors and promises not to purchase any more Hermѓs stock in the next five years. 17 December 2014: LVMH officially relinquishes its shares in Hermѓs and distributes its stake worth of USD 7.5 billion to shareholders and institutional investors. Arnault and his family now own less than 10 % of Hermѓs.

Despite the turbulent events, the French luxury brand managed to almost triple its revenues which reached EUR 6.9 billion. Last year, the operating profit of Hermѓs was 34 %, the highest ever in this industry. Even in this COVID-shaken year, the market cap of Hermѓs increased to EUR 78 billion while the market capitalization of competitive brands has subsided.

How did Hermѓs manage to withstand (and thrive)? Hermѓs belongs to the breed of companies which successfully escape the loop of larger competitors due to their family background. More often than not, the decision to oppose acquisition attempts is driven by pride rather than financial sense. The French company gave everyone a Л Е Г Е Н Д А Р Н АТА Ч А Н ТА B I R K I N textbook lesson on how to remain independent and reap the benefits of that.

The first step is to ‘keep the wolf at bay’. Although the company has been listed since 1993, the bulk of shares are held by 60 descendants of the family spread across various sectors. Hermѓs deployed all sorts of defenses. Arnault was publicly condemned as a corporate assailant (the language actually used was less polite). Lawyers challenged the subversive way in which Arnault engineered his stake — through a cascade of sophisticated financial products which bypass the disclosure rules. Finally, the Hermѓs family members who wished to stay on top of the corporation created an entity which consolidates just over 50 % of the shares and committed to hold these shares until 2031 whatever happens. Thus, in 2017 The Wolf in Cashmere finally gave up on Hermѓs and targeted Dior.

World

The second step is using your independence wisely. LVMH’s desire to own Hermѓs is common in this industry rather than a precedent. Multi-brand conglomerates such as Richemont (owner of Cartier and Montblanc) or Kering (Gucci and Saint Laurent) often set sights on single brands like Burberry, Prada or Hermѓs. In order to withstand, Hermѓs relied on its strengths: tradition, timelessness and discretion. While creative directors hop from one brand to another, a single Hermѓsdesigner has been in charge of the male line since 1988. The flagship products of the French brand, the bags Birkin and Kelly with prices exceeding USD 10k, are actually refreshed versions of what the company has been selling for decades. But, if a Dior dress is in fashion this season, a Hermѓs bag passes from generation to generation, from mother to daughter. The legendary Birkin has an interesting history. The idea for the bag emerged in the mind of Jean-Louis Dumas, Hermѓs CEO at that time, on a flight to London in 1981 as he was sitting next to Jane Birkin. Watching Jane’s items fall off her bag, Jean-Louis offered the actress to create a more secure and reliable bag for her. The two of them sketched the future legend on the back of a paper bag. The rest is history. The brand has deservedly built an aura of exclusivity. This gives it the power to sell its products at prices ten times higher than their cost. The waiting lists for the legendary Birkin are long enough — it takes years to buy one. (Remember the Sex and the City episode in which Samantha used the name of a friend of hers in order to get the bag faster — this does not come from fiction). Many of the brand’s products are not seasonal, which explains why seasonal sales are something unknown to Hermѓs. This protects both the margins and the brand — the most precious asset in the luxury goods business. Hermès say they do not have a marketing department and spend for advertising as little as 5 % of their revenue. While sales are likely to decline following the lockdown of outlets and factories this spring, Hermès seem to be in a better shape than their competitors. The corporation is less dependent on Italian tourists to go and shop in Paris and New York. Moreover, Hermѓsmake most of their products in-house and therefore do not rely on suppliers. Withal, when it comes to timeless brands such as Hermѓs, affluent clients are amenable to spending even during recession. The French luxury brand appears to intentionally stay away from digital environments, and does not suffer from that. As little as 2 — 3 % of Hermѓs products last year were purchased from their website. The Instagram account of the brand has only 10 million followers, while Channel and Gucci have 41 million each. The French luxury fashion producer is not welcome among younger consumers as buyers below 40 years of age account for only one-fourth of the sales, however the brand does not seem to worry about that at all.

At LVMH, the ‘runaway brand’ is still mentioned with respect exactly because the brand stood by its own values rather than lending itself to the drift of streams. The Hermès clan can get satisfaction from the fact that investment in the family business has brought about an yield of +400 % since 2010 — even more succulent than the yield the heirs would have had if they had traded their shares for LVMH stock. The family members behind the French luxury brand continue its success story by staying with what they can do best — timeless elegance.

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Etiquette

ETIQUETTE DURING COVID-19 By Sylvana Vassileva

What changes have become a norm in our daily life and what does etiquette command in the context of our new reality? Here is some advice from experts: Salutation and handshaking Healthy individuals without Covid-19 symptoms are free to go out, work, do sports and stroll around. This inevitably involves meetings, so we have to be vigilant on how we interact with other people. Until the pandemic is put under full control. Hugs and handshakes are regarded as unacceptable

COMPLIANCE WITH S O C I A L D I S TA N C I N G REQUIREMENTS HAS B E C O M E A WAY O F L I V I N G IN RECENT MONTHS. THE ‘NEW REALITY’ HAS COME WITH NEW RULES O F B E H AV I O U R W H I C H H AV E C H A N G E D T H E WAY EVERYONE IN THE WORLD C O M M U N I C AT E S A N D D O E S BUSINESS. BECAUSE OF COVID-19, COUNTLESS I N S T R U C T I O N S H AV E EMERGED ON HOW WE SHOULD COUGH, SNEEZE A N D WA S H H A N D S , TOGETHER WITH ADVICE TO O B S E R V E M A N DATO R Y S A F E D I S TA N C E S A N D PRISTINE HYGIENE. IN VERY SHORT TIME, B E H AV I O U R S A N D R E A C T I O N S W H I C H H AV E BECOME OUR INSTINCTS S I N C E E A R LY C H I L D H O O D ENDED UP BEING U N AC C E P TA B L E A N D DANGEROUS.

The most important recommendation from experts is to minimise our physical contacts with the people around. Cheek kissing, handshaking and hugging are now considered the least healthy ways of salutation due to the potential transmission of dangerous bacteria and viruses. Instead, we are advised to salute by Namaste bow, elbow touching or hand waving from a safe distance accompanied with a radiant smile. Taking your shoes off In many cultures guests are expected to take their shoes off before they enter the host’s house. The Covid-19 situation has naturally changed the geography of this custom. Now it is fully acceptable to ask visitors take off their shoes at the doorstep and put on disposable sleepers or shoe covers before they come in. Wearing a mask As the pandemic situation evolved, research has shown that some people can be viruspositive, but still not exhibit flu-like symptoms. Accordingly, masks have become recommendable and should be worn by anyone leaving their home so as to prevent the spread of the virus.

Etiquette

In addition to being useless, wearing a mask on the chin, neck, elbow or wrist is aesthetically inappropriate. Essentially, the mask has become the handkerchief of our century. To stay compliant with etiquette while wearing this new ‘accessory’, experts recommend that we keep them pristine and avoid putting them on a table or hanging them on the arms or ears when we eat. If you happen to sneeze in your mask during a conversation, apologize, go out and change the mask, and then wash your hands.

Invitations: RSVP from Yes to No According to a long-time tradition, once you accept an invitation for an event, etiquette commands you to go there by all means. Nevertheless, in the coronavirus situation, changing your reply and missing an event is considered acceptable as long as you do it in good time. To this end, you may wish to send a message to the host explaining that you greatly regret missing the event, but did so for the sake everybody’s safety. Two meters apart Healthcare experts believe that now everything hinges of social distancing because this is the only way to abate the spread of the disease. Before the pandemic, in certain societies and cultures asking someone to stay away or respect your personal space would have been an offense. Today however everyone is expected to respect this and if you are not ready to observe a safe distance, for sure somebody else will. It is important to ensure than social distancing happens without offending people: ‘I believe there should be some more distance between us’.

is a polite way to remind someone of the social distancing routines without inducing embarrassment or anger.

During and even after Covid-19 Contactless payments and gratuities Businesses, restaurants and shops all over the world increasingly prefer contactless payments as a safer method than exchanging banknotes or coins. The objective is to keep everyone in the chain healthy — clients, personnel and staff at outlets/institutions. The bon ton requires you to offer a tip for good service together with your payment. If you cannot do it in advance, you may wish to leave some money in a clean envelope together with a brief message of appreciation: ‘Thank you! I appreciate your work’.

Offering help to carry packages or bags with purchased goodsи While in the past it was perfectly natural to offer help to a neighbour who is struggling with heavy packages or bags full of purchased items, the situation today is different. It turned out that the virus can survive on surfaces, so unless we are wearing gloves and a mask, we should very carefully think before we offer to help others carry their belongings or purchases. Ultimately, this also affects their own safety.

etiquette commands that glasses should be apart when raised for Cheers so that the required distance and hygiene is observed.

Live or virtual Before Covid-19, personal contacts were a must for maintaining important business relations. Face-to-face meeting were the basis for building trust, they were expressions of respect, commitment and good attitude, and were perceived as an important precondition for developing longterm partnerships. Today however safety has become everyone’s priority. Many alternatives to personal meetings have become available so that communications now occur online or by telephone. Thus, refusing a personal meeting is not a breach of bon ton,

because the new ways of interacting and doing business have become generally accepted methods of communication which ensure everyone’s safety.

Sharing food and raising a toast Most people around the world would not be happy to chop off their piece of a desert placed in the middle of the table, even if it is shared with friends, each one armed with an individual fork. But, in certain countries and cultures, food sharing is part of people’s daily life. The situation around Covid-19 has made observance of hygiene rules a global issue and has inevitably changed our habits and daily routines. Food is to be consumed from individual plates and sharing should be refused for the sake of hygiene. Etiquette commands that everyone should use individual plates and cutlery. Jingling the glasses is not the most reasonable way to raise a toast today.

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Unique Estates’ clients

AT THE HOUSE OF WINE A PIECE OF FRENCH SOPHISTICATION IN THE HEART OF SOFIA, WHERE THE MAIN CHARACTER IS WINE – THE NEW HOME OF KATARZYNA ESTATE IS LA MAISON DE KATARZYNA WINE & TAPAS By Elena Marinova Photography by Ivan Bonev

‘Wine is sharing, pleasurable moments and celebrating life. It is always present at happy gatherings with family and friends and brings joy.’ In 2020, a year like no other, we remember of this quote by actor and writer Dan Aykroyd as we cross the threshold of the new home of the Katarzyna Estate winery in Sofia. Set in an aristocratic old house near the Five Corners intersection, it has become the administrative heart of a company at a time when the global health crisis is slamming down on many businesses. However, when you keep up with the times and have a clear vision for the future, change is healthy, not frightening.

Unique Estatesâ€™ clients

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Unique Estates’ clients

‘In the past half year, I have come to realise a lot of things that I didn‘t quite notice before. I realised we need a place that would bring us closer to people. A place where our customers and partners can com and taste our wines, try some food along with them. A place where we can talk more with customers and partners. With the pandemic, I fully rebooted the company,’ says Tsvetelina Nikolova, Managing Director of Katarzyna Estate. However, finding such a property in the heart of Sofia is not an easy task. But Tsvetelina knows who can handle it. ‘I called Unique Estates and literally a few hours later I had to decide whether I wanted the property or not. I confirmed that I would rent it without having seen it, because I trust the choice of Unique Estates.’ Fortune smiled for a second time at Katarzyna Estate because the owner of the house knows and likes our wines. ‘His concept of the place coincided with ours,’ Tsvetelina says. ‘When some of our clients first came here, they exclaimed, ‘This is your soul.’ Indeed, the place is not just an office, it reflects the very essence of the company. Because the ground floor houses La

Maison de Katarzyna wine & tapas, a representative wine shop carrying the whole range of the Katarzyna brand, but also a wine bar, a space for meetings and events, a place where one can feel the aristocratic spirit of wine. In a cozy atmosphere, the place offers all of the Katarzyna Estate wines (even those that are not commercially present), in combination with interesting tapas made of quality Spanish, Italian and Bulgarian produce. La Maison de Katarzyna wine & tapas is a suitable place both for business meetings and for meeting friends in one’s leisure time and after office hours. Connoisseurs of meat delicatessen can enjoy a special selection of highquality sausages, as well as several types of Jamón Ibérico. The Iberic pig is known for its diet and its specific way of breeding and ancestry which account for the quality of meat that is superior to all other pig breeds. The variety of tapas also includes a superb selection of salchicon, chorizo, lomo, jerky and ham. The hallmark of Bulgarian presence is the jerky from the village of Sturgel, an irresistible meat delicacy made of 100% beef of the Black Angus breed, produced at the Angus Farm. For the aficionados of light tapas, La Maison de Katarzyna wine & tapas has sets of gourmet

bruschettas with a wide variety of toppings. Guests can also enjoy interesting cocktails, a special selection of teas, Japanese matcha, superb coffees and other high-quality products that match the established standard of the KATARZYNA wines. The appearance and packaging of the products are of utmost importance. Customers will be able to choose among luxury packaging and gift boxes. ‘Because the little details make us happy,’ Tsvetelina says. One reason for joy is that Bulgarians increasingly appreciate and believe in local wines. Soon the construction of a hotel on the grounds of the Katarzyna Estate’ winery will begin. ‘When you‘re surrounded by 360 degrees of vineyards and you see how everything is done by hand, how people talk about wine with love, how they taste it with love, then you can‘t help but fall in love forever.’ This is exactly how Tsvetelina Nikolova herself sounds. The hotel and the winery will offer not only accommodation and tastings in the midst of the magnificent views at the foot of the Eastern Rhodopes, but also a place to learn more about wine, to be inspired by its rich culture and history. ‘Wine is nobility of spirit, love, art,’ Nikolova says. ‘Wine makes people happy’, Fleming says. We believe both of these claims, and we already know where we can experience them live. „La Maison de Katarzyna“ wine & tapas 36, Patriarh Evtimiy Blvd., Sofia t.: 0893 350542

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Interview

WHAT KIND OF PERSON ARE YOU, WHICH ARE THE MOST IMPORTANT THINGS WE SHOULD KNOW ABOUT YOU?

TEODORA NIKOLOVA: ARCHITECTURE AND DESIGN ARE CAPABLE TO ENGENDER STORIES, ELATION AND INSPIRATION Interviewer: Mira lzarova

We are pleased to introduce Teodora Nikolova, the new Editor-in-Chief of Unique Estates Life Magazine starting from our next issue. In 2005 Teodora became Editor-in-Chief of the newly established Bulgarian version of Bravacasa, an Italian magazine for interior design, and in the course of 15 years made it an indisputable source of expertise in the Bulgarian media market. She contributes to image-building of impactful design studios in social media. Teodora has a wealth of media expertise developed during her seven years of hosting information and cultural programmes and talk shows in the air of First Private National Radio Express. Editor in Bard and Egmont — leading publishing houses in their segments. Author of the book ‘The Vanishing City’, publ. Vessela Lyutskanova, 2011. Her second book is in the pipeline as preparations are being made together with the next publisher, Zhanet 45.

This question provokes vanity. I know the value of graceful exaggeration, but I am most confortable sailing in the waters of discretion. I can venerate anything from a nice tree to a splendid baroque element or a minimalistic space. I love to provoke myself and others with unexpected associations between various things. What I regret is the advent of clichés — both gestures and relations. What humbles me is elegance, again in the form of gestures of elegance. I know that Devil and God are in the detail and carry both the burden and joy ensuing from this knowledge. I have dedicated many years of my professional being to the notion of luxury and have encountered both insights and misconceptions about it. But what I know for sure is that luxury is a sustainable motivator in our lives. AFTER 146 ISSUES OF BRAVACASA, WHAT DID YOU LEARN ABOUT PEOPLE AND THEIR WORLD AS REFLECTED IN INTERIOR SPACES?

Harry Bertoia, one of the Masters of 20th century design, said: ‘The urge for good design is the same as the urge to go on living’. This means that interior design tells you a lot about the individual and his or her world. This is how you realize that some people are more open while others

Interview

are more encapsulated. Some are daring, some are tepid. Some are trying to usher themselves in certain roles which they believe to be their real ME, while others are in a constant quest for their own elusiveness. Some are sentimental and contemplative, and others are cynical. Some collect precious moments, others spill them. Some are frugal, others are generous. These traits transpire from interior spaces. Some interiors can be very personal and honest, but even if the inhabitants ‘are not present’ apparently, they are still present with their absence. YOU HAVE EXPLORED, EITHER LIVE OR FROM PHOTOGRAPHS, HUNDREDS OF INTERIORS FROM BULGARIAN AND INTERNATIONAL DESIGNERS AND ARCHITECTS. TELL US ABOUT SOME OF THOSE WHICH YOU WILL NEVER FORGET.

After everything which mankind has been through in recent months, my answer will probably be influenced by what Lee Edelkoort made a theme of the exhibition she curated this month (October 2020) — New Melancholy. Many interiors have left their imprints in me. Architecture and design are capable to engender stories, elation and inspiration. Juxtaposed as they are, Tadaa Ando’s ingenious volumes sculptured from concrete and sunlight and the Parisian

always remember this house as a collage of legendary faces and interior fragments — the parapet, the terrace facing the patio, the kitchen top, the low table in front of the TV set and the piles of books which one could see even on the floor. WHAT ATTRACTS YOU TO A SPACE, HOW DOES THE MOMENT ‘SINKING IN IT’ COME?

Various spaces hide various keys to them. In any case I would not get attracted to a space if I cannot experience harmony from its volumes and their interplays with light. Generous heights, windows rising right from the floor and the scenery behind these windows are important. Essentially, the perception of plasticity in the space, the promise that it will fit you as velvet glove. Old-time flooring of beautifully painted tiles — exotic here, but traditional heritage in Spain and Portugal — or a lovely architectural detail can make me fall in love with a place. WHAT IS YOUR ADVICE TO THOSE WHO ARE NOW CREATING THEIR NEW HOME?

Do not forget that what you are creating is your island — a homely space which is there to make you happy and inspire the best

VA R I O U S S P A C E S H I D E VA R I O U S K E Y S T O T H E M . I N A N Y C A S E I W O U L D N O T G E T AT T R A C T E D T O A S P A C E I F I C A N N O T E X P E R I E N C E H A R M O N Y F R O M I T S V O L U M E S A N D T H E I R I N T E R P L AY S W I T H L I G H T. G E N E R O U S H E I G H T S , WINDOWS RISING RIGHT FROM THE FLOOR AND THE SCENERY BEHIND THESE W I N D O W S A R E I M P O R T A N T. sweet lavishness of Gerard Faivre’s apartments have already become part of my aesthetic memory. The most memorable ones are the interiors which I have experienced physically. I was able to see the play of light in these spaces and how they interact with the motions and voices of their inhabitants. These discoveries I made in spaces which I initially saw from a (wonderful) photo session and then visited personally. One of these experiences was in the home of architects Vyara Zhelyazkova and Georgi Kutov. The first time I found myself there was on a gloomy rainy day similar to the one on which the interior had been photographed some time before. The magnetism of the space and its visual impact were incomparably stronger when experienced live. I had a similar perception in a 16th century palazzo in Prato, home of friends of mine, architects Sabrina Bignami and Alessandro Capellaro. That was one of the loveliest eclectics I have ever seen, all the more impactful when Sabrina, Alessandro and I were laughing and dipping in rosé wine our cantuccini (whose glory originates exactly from Prato). A few years ago, during the exhibition I Saloni in Milan, I was at an unforgettable party hosted by Stefano Boeri at a multistory house which the Boeri family owns in the old town. Architects and designers who write the history of contemporary design were among the guests. I will

in you. As with everything else, what we look for in a home is an answer to the question what makes us happy. Which means that we should be reasonably cognizant of who we are and very honest to ourselves. Trends are important, but only if reflected in our individuality. In other words — do not enslave yourself to the colour of the year. Having a guide on your way is priceless. Good agents, architects and designers make good guides as well. Be honest with them as you discuss your ideas about your new house, or the lack of them. And never forget that the most precious trait of a home is timelessness. Year in, year out, a home should add new beauty and lovingly store the traces of our emotions and stories. This, combined with generous spaces, magnetic views and classy design, will make the soul-infused luxury of your daily life. Read the entire interview on ues.bg/blog

U E S . B G +359 882 700 100

We present to you

Unique Estates' agents

adezhda (Nadia) is a recognized real estate expert with more than 15 years of professional experience. During the recent months, while the pandemic was taking its toll, Nadezhda not only managed to hold on to her leading position in the company, but recorded a significant growth of the number of clients served. One of her strongest skills is to maintain a caring attitude while increasing her range of impact. Enthusiasm and positive attitude, combined with the proficiency to deeply understand client requirements and demonstrate personal commitment, has made her a consultant of choice for both peers in the company and across the industry. This is exactly why Nadia has been chosen as a Unique Estates Mentor and has been transmitting her experience to the next generation of colleagues. She is a Certified International Property Specialist (CIPS) by the US National Association of Realtors (NAR) since 2005.

What do you like most in the profession of a luxury estate agent? I am happy that I had an active role in setting up the real estate business in Bulgaria. Above all, I have always been guided by the sense of major responsibility for the clients who have laid their trust on me. A luxury estate agent can and should offer not only functionality, but a home created with a great sensitivity to loveliness, homeliness and cheerfulness. These spaces incite joy and indulgence, similar to works of art. This is what I like and what charges me with inspiration and devotion to work. What in your opinion makes a real estate agent truly successful? I try to deeply empathize with the excitements of the people I work with. I understand and acknowledge the importance of all those moments and processes which every client goes through, and do my best to create an atmosphere of respect and mutual trust. This helps me a lot in my work as an agent. What is ‘luxury’ nowadays? In recent months, the notion of luxury has been strongly associated with the presence of nature at our home. Most clients are looking for a house with a yard, panoramic terrace or apartment with a garden. This is the theme of the season. What makes a property a real home? A property becomes a real home when it has been chosen with joy and faith that it will bring goodness and happiness. I try to make clients embrace the property on the wings of these beliefs. Nevertheless, what makes a home warm, welcoming and real is the atmosphere which the inhabitants will create in it. What things in your own home are especially sentimental to you? It is difficult to pinpoint specific items. My children have grown here, I have spent my life here — sometimes happy, sometime sad and full of challenges, my history is all here. I love the neighbourhood I live in. It is infused with the fragrance of linden trees, with the smiles of my friends and neighbours, with the welcoming atmosphere of small cafés, restaurants and shops with attendants that have become acquaintances of mine.

Read the entire interview on ues.bg/blog

NADEZHDA ZAHARIEVA

SENIOR CONSULTANT, MENTOR

By Sylvana Vassileva Photo: Sanya Arnaudova

O FFI C E S TH AT

5 minutesâ€™ walk

Park area

to metro station Vitosha and Paradise Shopping Center

4000 sqm behind the building

High ceilings

Bicycle friendly

3.10 m clear ceiling height

bike parking and locker rooms with showers

I n sp ir e

16 Srebarna street, Sofia www.park-lane.eu

office@park-lane.eu

+359 88 773 4909

We present to you

Unique Estates' agents

ALTEN ALIEVA

SENIOR CONSULTANT

What do you like most in the profession of a luxury estate agent? I love to make people happy when they discover their dream home. In everybody’s life there is a make-or-break moment — this requires ultimate responsibility and brings great satisfaction when you get things right. Moreover, our clients have strong businesses in diverse areas and I endeavour to be uncompromisingly accurate because our motto is to offer both luxury and genuine quality. Trade-offs are unacceptable. What in your opinion makes a real estate agent truly successful? I do not have a strict recipe. I have my own, personal approach to each client. I cannot copy-paste. Building trust with clients is paramount for me. I must feel what they are after. And the greatest recognition for me is the satisfaction from a job well done and the smile on their faces. In a nutshell: build trust with the client, pay attention to detail, and be honest, loyal and accurate. What does Unique Estates mean to you? I feel at the right place, and do my job willingly. To me Unique Estates is not just another brand, but a measure for prestige. In this company we have long-time happy customers who keep coming back to us. I am pleased to be part of a team which is already setting the standards. All other players in the market set their watches to ours, because we are leaders in the luxury estate market. The opportunities that come with our membership in Luxury Portfolio are great — contacts. Opportunities for professional development. We learn from the best in class. What is ‘luxury’ nowadays? Luxury is a symbol of success. Luxury, and I mean all those stylish and comfortable amenities, is quality of life which successful people can afford. In the proper sense of the word, luxury stands for category, high quality and standard of living. And certainly, experience and values. Luxury attracts attention and contributes to self-esteem by making people feel special.

lthough Alten has been with the company and in the real estate business for five years only, she has been able to master all good practices and create a major arsenal of contacts. Delicately and charmingly, she demonstrated her ability to successfully resolve complicated cases and finalise difficult negotiations. Her clients are happy with the consultancy service as they are convinced that working with her and the final result have exceeded their expectations. In recognition of her outstanding performance and of the gained experience, expertise and loyalty to the company, in April this year Alten was promoted to the position of Senior Consultant.

Read the entire interview on ues.bg/blog

By Sylvana Vassileva Photo: Sanya Arnaudova

SELECTION OF PROPERTIES

PROPERTIES BY INVESTOR

SELECTION OF LUXURY HOUSES

SELECTION OF APARTMENTS

SELECTION OF PROPERTIES FOR RENT

U E S . B G +359 882 700 100

ТАЙНИТЕ ГРАДИНИ НА КВАРТАЛ ЛОЗЕНЕЦ THE SECRET GARDENS OF LOZENETS Find more on UES.bg / Ref. ID: 10686

91 необзаведени апартамента в Лозенец, София 91 unfurnished apartments in Lozenets, Sofia 82 - 446 m2

Апартаменти

1-4

преди Акт 15 before Act 15

Цени от / Prices from: € 140 000 без ДДС / VAT excluded

From investor

Комплексът е изграден с вложено богато озеленяване. Разположен е в най-тихата част на квартал Лозенец - близо до Семинарията, на вътрешна и тиха улица, с лесен достъп до центъра. Жилищата са светли и просторни, а акцентът при терасите към тях е мащабът, както и изгледът към Витоша. The complex is built with rich landscaping. It is located in the quietest part of Lozenets - near the Seminary, on an inner and quiet street, with easy access to the center. The apartments are bright and spacious, and the emphasis on the terraces to them is the scale and the view to Vitosha Mountain.

СЕЛЕКЦИЯ ИМОТИ НОВО СТРОИТЕЛСТВО ЗА ПРОДАЖБА OUR SELECTION OF NEW CONSTRUCTION FOR SALE

Красимир Джамбазов Старши консултант / Акаунт мениджър

Krassimir Dzhambazov Senior consultant / Account Manager

U E S . B G +359 882 700 100

Минималистични къщи в Драгалевци Minimalistic houses in Dragalevtsi Find more on UES.bg / Ref. ID: 13985

8 необзаведени къщи в Драгалевци, София 8 unfurnished houses in Dragalevtsi, Sofia

243 - 373 m2

From investor

3-4

Акт 14 Act 14

Цени от / Prices from: € 330 000

Ина Маринова Kонсултант

Ina Marinova Consultant

U E S . B G +359 882 700 100

Елегантен жилищен комплекс на топ локация An elegant residential complex on a top location 218 необзаведени апартаменти в Изгрев, София

Find more on UES.bg / Ref. ID: 13624

218 unfurnished apartments in Izgrev, Sofia

45 - 250 m

From investor

1-3

В строеж / Under construction

Цени от / Prices from: € 79 100

Емилия Димитрова Мениджър екип / Член на Мениджърски съвет / Акаунт мениджър

Emiliya Dimitrova Team Manager / Member of Management Board / Account Manager

U E S . B G +359 882 700 100

Вашият нов дом в паркова среда Your new home surrounded by green areas Find more on UES.bg / Ref. ID: 14495

162 необзаведени апартаменти в широк център, София 162 unfurnished apartments in Wide Downtown, Sofia

60 - 125 m2

1-2

В строеж / Under construction

Цени от / Prices from: € 69 000

From investor

Space, comfort and community. Style untouched by time. Coming soon in Unique Estatesâ€™ portfolio ues.bg/ 0882700100

U E S . B G +359 882 700 100

Модерни имоти за продажба в нов комплекс Modern properties for sale in a new complex Find more on UES.bg / Ref. ID: 14090

30 необзаведени апартаменти и 18 необзаведени къщи в Драгалевци, София 30 unfurnished apartments and 18 houses in Dragalevtsi, Sofia Апартаменти

56 - 293 m2

1-4

Акт 15 Act 15

240 - 360 m2

2-5

Акт 15 Act 15

Къщи

Цени апартаменти / Prices from: € 110 000 Цени къщи / Prices from: € 468 398

From investor

Луксозен комплекс в хармония с природата A luxury compound in harmony with nature Find more on UES.bg / Ref. ID: 14419

87 необзаведени апартаменти в Бояна, София 87 unfurnished apartments in Boyana, Sofia

90 - 420 m2

1-4

Акт 14 Act 14

Цени от/ Prices from: € 165 000 без ДДС / VAT excluded

U E S . B G +359 882 700 100

Нов жилищен комплекс в сърцето на града New residential complex in the heart of the city Find more on UES.bg / Ref. ID: 14394

150 необзаведени апартаменти в Център, София 150 unfurnished apartments in Downtown, Sofia

78 - 268 m2

1-3

В строеж / Under construction

Цени от / Prices from: € 120 000

From investor

Жилищен комплекс с панорама към Витоша A residential complex with a view to Vitosha Mountain Find more on UES.bg / Ref. ID: 13173

45 необзаведени къщи във в.з. Приплат, Владая, София 45 unfurnished houses in Priplat v.a., Vladaya, Sofia

157 - 330 m2

3-5

преди Акт 16 before Act 16

Цени от/ Prices from: € 172 800

U E S . B G +359 882 700 100

ПЕРЛА В ПЛАНИНАТА PEARL IN THE MOUNTAIN Find more on UES.bg / Ref. ID: 1970

568 m

14000 m2

Houses

Обзаведена къща в Рибарица

Furnished house in Ribaritza

Цена / Price: € 1 500 000

Houses

Единствена по рода си резиденция, намираща се в живописния район Рибарица, характерен с чистия си въздух и девствена природа, само на 100 км. от София. Имотът е разположен върху собствен парк от 14 000 кв.м., разполага с конюшня и в парка са обособени различни зони за релакс и наслада. One of a kind residence, located in the picturesque area of Ribaritsa, characterized by its fresh air and pristine nature, only 100 km. from Sofia. The property is located on its own park of 14,000 square meters, has a stable and in the park there are different areas for relaxation and enjoyment.

СЕЛЕКЦИЯ ЛУКСОЗНИ КЪЩИ ЗА ПРОДАЖБА OUR SELECTION OF LUXURY RESIDENCES FOR SALE

Илонка Стоянова Партньор / Мениджър екип / Член на Мениджърски съвет

Ilonka Stoyanova Partner / Team Manager / Member of Management Board

U E S . B G +359 882 700 100

Properties near Sofia

A PROPERTY OUT OF TOWN – THE NEW TREND

lobal developments in recent months have changed the perception of what has been known as a second/vacation house. Now it ranks pari passu with the urban residence as withdrawal to nature is becoming not only a vacation lifestyle, but a harmonic combination of rest, work and — not least — security. ‘The wilder the safer’, says Francois Thierry, one of the most affluent people in France today. This maxima is indisputable at the time of the pandemic, but it certainly will have a far-reaching impact long after the pandemic is over. Insular and mountain estates are yet to unfold their potential and become preferred for longer periods during the year, of course without disconnecting their inhabitants from cities and urban life. What we are looking at is a lasting trend which is now gaining ground and is yet to expand its footprint in the market. The demand for properties which are located beyond the city limits but are at relatively short travelling distances and remain connected to it by adequate communications is getting momentum, shaping up a new trend and a new understanding of luxury. The numbers strongly support this assertion. Between April and September 2020, 15 % of all inquiries to Unique Estates were exactly for this type of properties, which is a notable proportion. (In comparison, before the pandemic these accounted for as little as 3 % of all inquiries to our company.) Meanwhile places such as Pancharevo, Bankya, Lozen village and Bistritsa are again rising high on the radar of potential buyers. These developments make perfect sense. First, this type of locations provide for the much-needed now social distancing, which is next to infeasible especially in large cities. On the other hand, the contact these places offer with nature revives the perception of freedom, peacefulness, comfort and protection. All this leaves deep traces in peoples’ emotional memory and will certainly continue to have an impact after the pandemic is over. Going forward, life out of the city and close to nature will be less of a counterpoint to urban life or part of the daily-vacation life opposition, and more of a very different mix and balance between urban-rural lifestyle. Being part of the dynamic city and getting back every day to your countryside island will be one of the facets of luxury. Properties at wonderful wombs of nature will increasingly rival those at perfect urban locations. And the requirements to the landscaping, architectural and design solutions of these properties will increasingly focus on luxury intrinsic to both urban and rural life. New luxury loves the city and is one hour away from it.

Find more on UES.bg / Ref. ID: 11970

Beautiful country house 25 km from the center of Sofia Exclusive, new one-storey house, which is designer furnished and has a beautifully landscaped flat yard. The property is located in a quiet area, in a green and quiet living environment. Обзаведена къща в Нови хан

200 m2

Furnished house at Novi han

1000 m2

Цена / Price: € 349 000

Find more on UES.bg / Ref. ID: 6090

Mansion for sale 15 minutes from Sofia Wonderful house on 3 floors, located in a yard of ten acres, surrounded by a solid fence. The property has a swimming pool, outdoor barbecue, winter garden and a garage for two cars. Обзаведена къща в Костинброд

670 m2

Furnished house in Kostinbrod

10000 m2

Цена / Price: € 890 000

Houses

Properties near Sofia

Unique estate in Zheleznitsa A fairy-tale environment at a unique place with a phenomenal view awaits you 17 km from Sofia. The plot is situated at several levels as you walk through the main house, a guest house, a barbeque and a horse stable. A yard with splendid greenery creates a welcoming atmosphere with its diverse hubs, and the warmed water pool can be used in wintertime as well. The developers have had the good foresight to construct three access ways.

Обзаведена къща в Железница

801 m2

Furnished house in Zheleznitsa

3381 m2

Цена / Price: € 885 000

Find more on UES.bg / Ref. ID: 12467

Lovely house in Dolna Banya Fully furnished and equipped luxury house in St. Spas locality at Dolna Banya. The property is at two levels and features a pool in a nicely landscaped garden. The house offers a generous living room, dining room, kitchen, three bedrooms and three bathrooms, roofed terrace with BBQ and a garage for two vehicles. Обзаведена къща в Долна баня

380 m2

Furnished house in Dolna banya

5000 m2

Цена / Price: € 550 000 без ДДС / VAT excluded

Find more on UES.bg / Ref. ID: 14049

House in Vladaya with a splendid yard The property consists of two independent houses with separate entrances. Each house has an underground car parking space and generous living rooms with cooking/dining sections. The second level accommodates three bedrooms and two bathrooms. Additional bedrooms can be arranged in the attic space.

Find more on UES.bg / Ref. ID: 14094

Обзаведена къща във Владая

1600 m2

Furnished house in Vladaya, Sofia

1300 m2

Цена / Price: € 849 000

U E S . B G +359 882 700 100

639 m2

Полуобзаведена къща в Докторска градина, София

476 m2

Semi-furnished house in Doctor’s Garden, Sofia

440 m2

Обзаведена къща в Център, София

200 m2

Furnished house in Downtown, Sofia

Houses

Find more on UES.bg / Ref. ID: 7557

Цена / Price: € 3 000 000

Find more on UES.bg / Ref. ID: 13548

Цена / Price: € 740 000

Изключителна нова къща за продажба в Драгалевци 560 m2

Необзаведена къща в Драгалевци, София

1300 m2

Unfurnished house in Dragalevtsi, Sofia

Unique new house for sale in Dragalavtsi Find more on UES.bg / Ref. ID: 14190

Цена / Price: € 1 500 000 без ДДС / VAT excluded

U E S . B G +359 882 700 100

Find more on UES.bg / Ref. ID: 13638

866 m2

x 13

382 m2

x 10 Semi-furnished house in Downtown, Sofia

600 m2

Обзаведена къща в Изгрев, София

500 m2

Furnished house in Izgrev, Sofia

Houses

Полуобзаведена къща в Център, София

Цена / Price: € 1 300 000

Find more on UES.bg / Ref. ID: 3716

Цена по запитване Price upon request

Невероятна резиденция в Бояна за продажба

Unique residence in Boyana for sale Find more on UES.bg / Ref. ID: 14272

923 m2

Обзаведена къща в Бояна, София

1114 m2

Furnished house in Boyana, Sofia

Цена / Price: € 2 500 000 без ДДС / VAT excludued

U E S . B G +359 882 700 100

280 m2

Необзаведена къща в Симеоново, София

640 m2

Unfurnished house in Simeonovo, Sofia

420 m2

Необзаведена къща в Драгалевци, София

480 m2

Unfurnished house in Dragalevtsi, Sofia

Houses

Find more on UES.bg / Ref. ID: 10548

Цена / Price: € 359 000 без ДДС / VAT excluded

Find more on UES.bg / Ref. ID: 14133

Цена / Price: € 630 000

Модерна къща за продажба в Бояна

Modern house for sale in Boyana Find more on UES.bg / Ref. ID: 13688

451 m2

Обзаведена къща в Бояна, София

450 m2

Furnished house in Boyana, Sofia

Цена / Price: € 995 000 без ДДС / VAT Excluded

U E S . B G +359 882 700 100

280 m2

Необзаведена къща в Симеоново, София

620 m2

Unfurnished house in Simeonovo, Sofia

620 m2

Обзаведена къща в Симеоново, София

1600 m2

Furnished house in Simeonovo, Sofia

Houses

Find more on UES.bg / Ref. ID: 12322

Цена / Price: € 410 000

Find more on UES.bg / Ref. ID: 11146

Цена по запитване Price upon request

Изключителна къща в затворен комплекс в Банкя

Exclusive house in a gated compound in Bankya Find more on UES.bg / Ref. ID: 10838

450 m2

Обзаведена къща в Банкя, София

1270 m2

Furnished house in Bankya, Sofia

Цена по запитване Price upon request

U E S . B G +359 882 700 100

312 m2

504 m2

Обзаведена къща в Камбаните, София Furnished house in Kambanite, Sofia

340 m2

Обзаведена къща в Бояна, София

642 m2

Furnished house in Boyana, Sofia

Houses

Find more on UES.bg / Ref. ID: 12715

Цена / Price: € 650 000 без ДДС / VAT excluded

Find more on UES.bg / Ref. ID: 11612

Цена / Price: € 998 000

Модерна и високоефективна къща за продажба 471 m2

Обзаведена къща в Панчарево, София

1000 m2

Furnished house in Pancharevo, Sofia

A modern, energy efficient house for sale Find more on UES.bg / Ref. ID: 10971

Цена / Price: € 790 000

U E S . B G +359 882 700 100

532 m2

Необзаведена къща в Бояна, София

492 m2

Unfurnished house in Boyana, Sofia

Find more on UES.bg / Ref. ID: 14472

Цена / Price: € 1 250 000 без ДДС / VAT excluded Наем / Rent: € 8000

Find more on UES.bg / Ref. ID: 14458

235 m2

Обзаведена къща в Панчарево, София

635 m2

Furnished house in Pancharevo, Sofia

Houses

Цена / Price: € 330 000

Елегантно и шикозно имение в емблематичен комплекс 870 m2

Полуобзаведена къща в Камбаните, София

2050 m2

Semi-furnished house in Kambanite, Sofia

Elegant and chic mansion in an iconic compound Find more on UES.bg / Ref. ID: 13161

Цена / Price: € 2 500 000 без ДДС / VAT excluded Наем / Rent: € 6500

U E S . B G +359 882 700 100

220 m2

Обзаведена къща във в.з. Малинова долина, София

80 m2

Furnished house in v.a. Malinova dolina, Sofia

360 m2

Обзаведена къща във Владая

800 m2

Furnished house in Vladaya

Houses

Find more on UES.bg / Ref. ID: 14271

Цена / Price: € 560 000 без ДДС / VAT excluded

Find more on UES.bg / Ref. ID: 14267

Цена по запитване Price upon request

Нова, модерна и уютна къща в затворен комплекс 610 m2

Обзаведена къща в Малинова долина, София

900 m2

Furnished house in Malinova Dolina, Sofia

New, modern and cozy house in a gated compound Find more on UES.bg / Ref. ID: 13160

Цена по запитване Price upon request

U E S . B G +359 882 700 100

Find more on UES.bg / Ref. ID: 9845

362 m2

Обзаведена къща в Симеоново, София

300 m2

Furnished house in Simeonovo, Sofia

653 m2

Обзаведена къща във в.з. Малинова долина, София

868 m2

Furnished house in v.a. Malinova dolina, Sofia

Houses

Цена / Price: € 430 000

Find more on UES.bg / Ref. ID: 8631

Цена / Price: € 1 136 116 без ДДС / VAT excluded

Изумителна къща за продажба в затворен комплекс в Симеоново

Stunning house for sale in a gated compound in Simeonovo Find more on UES.bg / Ref. ID: 11878

600 m2

Обзаведена къща Симеоново, София

1068 m2

Furnished house in Simeonovo, Sofia

Цена / Price: € 1 500 000

U E S . B G +359 882 700 100

ДИЗАЙНЕРСКИ АПАРТАМЕНТ В ИЗГРЕВ ЗА ПРОДАЖБА DESIGNER APARTMENT IN IZGREV FOR SALE Find more on UES.bg / Ref. ID: 13572

247 m

2/4

Apartments

Обзаведен апартамент в Изгрев, София Furnished apartment in Izgrev, Sofia

Цена / Price: € 750 000 без ДДС / VAT excluded

Апартаменти

Имотът е дизайнерски завършен и обзаведен с високо качество мебели и уреди. Разположен е на престижна локация, в представителна сграда с разкошно лоби и 24-часова охрана. The property is designer finished and furnished with high quality furniture and appliances. It is located in a prestigious location, in a representative building with a magnificent lobby and 24-hour security.

СЕЛЕКЦИЯ ОТ ПРЕСТИЖНИ АПАРТАМЕНТИ ЗА ПРОДАЖБА OUR SELECTION OF PRESTIGIOUS APARTMENTS FOR SALE

Галина Грудова Старши партньор / Мениджър екип / Член на Мениджърски съвет

Galina Grudova Senior Partner / Team Manager / Member of Management Board

U E S . B G +359 882 700 100

120 m2

Обзаведен апартамент в Център, София

2/5

Furnished apartment in Downtown, Sofia

188 m2

Полуобзаведен апартамент в Докторска градина, София

1/7

Semi-furnished apartment in Doctor’s Garden, Sofia

Apartments

Find more on UES.bg / Ref. ID: 14047

Цена / Price: € 450 000

Find more on UES.bg / Ref. ID: 14221

Цена / Price: € 675 180

We present to you

COVER PROPERTY We chose to show this exclusive city apartment because it is everything we would like to see in a property — central location, wonderful old building and a perfect combination of an existing structure and professional work of architects and designers. We were attracted by its white peacefulness and the feeling that amidst this a beauty one can never be alone. So we decided this

to be our season’s greeting to you. The unit is in a renovated, aristocratic building at the heart of Sofia. The property consists of a generous living and dining room, kitchen and three bedrooms each one with an individual bathroom.

Find more on UES.bg / Ref. ID: 11661

236 m2

Обзаведен апартамент в Център, София

3/4

Furnished apartment in Downtown, Sofia

Цена по запитване Price upon request

U E S . B G +359 882 700 100

Find more on UES.bg / Ref. ID: 14283

123 m2

Обзаведен апартамент в Дианабад, София

7/9

Furnished apartment in Dianabad, Sofia

182 m2

Обзаведен мезонет в Манастирски ливади - запад, София

2/5

Furnished maisonette n Manastirski livadi – West, Sofia

Apartments

Цена / Price: € 275 000 без ДДС / VAT excluded

Find more on UES.bg / Ref. ID: 14447

Цена / Price: € 313 000

Ексклузивен апартамент на ул. Московска

Exclusive apartment on Moskovska Str. Find more on UES.bg / Ref. ID: 9784

240 m2

Обзаведен апартамент в Център, София

4/5

Furnished apartment in Downtown, Sofia

Цена / Price: € 1 300 000 Наем / Rent: € 5000

U E S . B G +359 882 700 100

Find more on UES.bg / Ref. ID: 12454

190 m2

Полуобзаведен апартамент в Център, София

3/6

Semi-furnished apartment in Downtown, Sofia

260 m2

Необзаведен апартамент в Яворов, София

5/6

Unfurnished apartment in Yavorov, Sofia

Apartments

Цена / Price: € 500 000

Find more on UES.bg / Ref. ID: 14079

Цена / Price: € 395 000

Изключителен пентхаус в сърцето на София

One of a kind penthouse in the heart of Sofia Find more on UES.bg / Ref. ID: 9803

585 m2

Необзаведен пентхаус в Център, София

7/8

Unfurnished penthouse in Downtown, Sofia

Цена / Price: € 1 500 000 без ДДС / VAT excluded

U E S . B G +359 882 700 100

Find more on UES.bg / Ref. ID: 12168

304 m2

Полуобзаведен апартамент в Център, София

2/3

Semi-furnished apartment in Downtown, Sofia

365 m2

Обзаведен пентхаус на бул. България, София

4/4

Furnished penthouse on Bulgaria Blvd., Sofia

Apartments

Цена / Price: € 435 000

Find more on UES.bg / Ref. ID: 14200

Цена / Price: € 326 000 без ДДС / VAT excluded

Зашеметяващ пентхаус за продажба

Stunning penthouse for sale Find more on UES.bg / Ref. ID: 13073

343 m2

Обзаведен пентхаус в Изток, София

10 / 10

Furnished penthouse in Iztok, Sofia

Цена / Price: € 825 000 без ДДС / VAT excluded

U E S . B G +359 882 700 100

110 m2

Обзаведен апартамент в Манастирски ливади - запад, София

2/5

Furnished apartment in Manastirski livadi – West, Sofia

200 m2

Обзаведен апартамент в Манастирски ливади - запад, София

1/5

Furnished apartment in Manastirski livadi – West, Sofia

Apartments

Find more on UES.bg / Ref. ID: 14306

Цена / Price: € 220 000

Find more on UES.bg / Ref. ID: 14287

Цена / Price: € 380 000

Ексклузивен и неповторим пентхаус в изключителна сграда

An exclusive and stunning penthouse in a luxury building Find more on UES.bg / Ref. ID: 11805

700 m2

Полуобзаведен мезонет в Лозенец, София

8/9

Semi-furnished maistonette in Lozenets, Sofia

Цена / Price: € 740 000 без ДДС / VAT excluded

U E S . B G +359 882 700 100

300 m2

Обзаведен апартамент в Панчарево, София

1/3

Furnished apartment in Pancharevo, Sofia

234 m2

Необзаведен апартамент в Лозенец, София

2 / 11

Unfurnished apartment in Lozenets, Sofia

Apartments

Find more on UES.bg / Ref. ID: 11671

Цена по запитване Price upon request

Find more on UES.bg / Ref. ID: 13831

Цена / Price: € 587 000

Панорамен многостаен апартамент до Южния парк

Panoramic apartment next to South park Find more on UES.bg / Ref. ID: 12861

330 m2

Обзаведен апартамент в Лозенец, София

2/4

Furnished apartment in Lozenets, Sofia

Цена / Price: € 700 000

U E S . B G +359 882 700 100

Find more on UES.bg / Ref. ID: 6139

661 m2

Обзаведен пентхаус в Бояна, София

9/9

Furnished penthouse in Boyana, Sofia

159 m2

Обзаведен апартамент в Бояна, София

4/8

Furnished apartment in Boyana, Sofia

Apartments

Цена / Price: € 1 500 000 без ДДС / VAT excluded

Find more on UES.bg / Ref. ID: 8051

Цена / Price: € 290 000

Изключителен пентхаус с прекрасни гледки 600 m2

Обзаведен пентхаус в Бояна, София

5/6

Furnished penthouse in Boyana, Sofia

Exclusive penthouse with breathtaking views Find more on UES.bg / Ref. ID: 8562

Цена / Price: € 1 350 000

U E S . B G +359 882 700 100

598 m2

Необзаведен пентхаус на бул. България, София

15 / 15

Unfurnished penthouse at Bulgaria Blvd., Sofia

150 m2

Обзаведен апартамент в Манастирски ливади - изток, София

партер / 5

Furnished apartment in Manastirski livadi – East, Sofia

Apartments

Find more on UES.bg / Ref. ID: 14304

Цена / Price: € 1 250 000 без ДДС / VAT excluded

Find more on UES.bg / Ref. ID: 13418

Цена / Price: € 390 000

Зашеметяващ пентхаус за продажба

Incredible penthouse for sale Find more on UES.bg / Ref. ID: 13667

203 m2

Обзаведен пентхаус в Бояна, София

4/4

Furnished penthouse in Boyana, Sofia

Цена / Price: € 475 000

U E S . B G +359 882 700 100

ЕЛЕГАНТЕН ЧЕТИРИСТАЕН АПАРТАМЕНТ В СЪРЦЕТО НА СОФИЯ STYLISH 3-BEDROOM APARTMENT IN THE HEART OF SOFIA Find more on UES.bg / Ref. ID: 14145

195 m

6 / 10

Rents

Обзаведен апартамент в Оборище, София Furnished apartment in Oborishte, Sofia

Наем по запитване Price upon request

Rents

Прекрасният апартамент е обзаведен в елегантен стил и разполага с гледки в две посоки към Витоша и към Стара планина. Интериорът съчетава по интересен начин модерни и класически елементи, като е обърнато внимание на всичко до последния детайл в декорацията. За лукса и класата на жилището допринасят медните нюанси в осветлението и използваните мрамор, ламинат и естествен паркет. The beautiful apartment is furnished in an elegant style and has views in two directions to Vitosha Mountain and the Balkan Mountains. The interior combines in an interesting way modern and classic elements, paying attention to everything down to the last detail in the decoration. Copper shades in the lighting and the used marble, laminate and natural parquet contribute to the luxury and class of the home.

СЕЛЕКЦИЯ УНИКАЛНИ ИМОТИ ПОД НАЕМ OUR SELECTION OF UNIQUE RENTALS

Зара Котева Мениджър екип/ Член на Мениджърски съвет

Zara Koteva Team Manager / Member of Management Board

U E S . B G +359 882 700 100

Trends

MEDIUM-TERM LEASES — THE NEW SERVICE FROM UNIQUE ESTATES

Find more on UES.bg / Ref. ID 13977

he ongoing pandemic situation left its footprint on the real property market this year and created a new trend — medium-term leases.

The service, namely property leases for a period of 1 to 6 months, is steadying its foothold in the market, especially in the corporate community. This includes clients who are selling their property and have to relocate somewhere until they buy a new one. We also observe demand for shorter-term leases of whole houses at higher lease rates which compensate owners for the decision to let their property for shorter periods. We also see stronger demand for leased properties from Bulgarians who return from other countries as well as for leased properties in the vacation segment.

Обзаведен апартамент в Център, София Furnished apartment in Downtown, Sofia

100 m2

The quality of the properties offered in Bulgaria is getting better. In a situation which forebodes slower demand, proactive owners took the opportunity to improve their properties, especially in an effort to make them competitive to those intended for short-term hiring through online booking platforms as some of the latter are now shifting gears. Unique Estates is deeply engaged in short-term leases. Let us offer to your attention part of our portfolio of properties available for leasing. Should you be interested in a shorter-term property lease, please check the special selection on our website or contact us.

Rents

Обзаведен ап. в Докторска градина, София Furnished apartment in Doctor’s Garden

97 m2

5/5

Find more on UES.bg / Ref. ID 14337

Обзаведен апартамент в Бояна, София Furnished apartment in Boyana, Sofia

3/7

Find more on UES.bg / Ref. ID 14241

Find more on UES.bg / Ref. ID 14326

198 m2

4/5

Обзаведен ап. във Витоша, София Furnished apartment in Vitosha, Sofia

120 m2

4/7

451 m2

Полуобзаведена къща в Бояна, София

698 m2

Semi-furnished house in Boyana, Sofia

380 m2

Обзаведена къща в Малинова долина, София

320 m2

Furnished house in Malinova dolina, Sofia

Find more on UES.bg / Ref. ID: 13771

Наем / Rent: € 3500 без ДДС / VAT excluded

Find more on UES.bg / Ref. ID: 14132

Наем / Rent: € 2350 без ДДС / VAT excluded

U E S . B G +359 882 700 100

100

Find more on UES.bg / Ref. ID: 13756

270 m2

Обзаведена къща в Драгалевци, София

400 m2

Furnished house in Dragalevtsi, Sofia

308 m2

Необзаведена къща в Малинова долина, София

500 m2

Unfurnished house in Malinova dolina, Sofia

Rents

Наем / Rent: € 2500

Find more on UES.bg / Ref. ID: 13586

Наем / Rent: € 2900

250 m2

Обзаведен апартамент в Център, София

3/4

Furnished apartment in Downtown, Sofia

170 m2

Обзаведен апартамент в Център, София

2/4

Furnished apartment in Downtown, Sofia

Find more on UES.bg / Ref. ID: 14257

Наем / Rent: € 2400

Find more on UES.bg / Ref. ID: 13553

Наем / Rent: € 2100

U E S . B G +359 882 700 100

101

102

150 m2

Обзаведен апартамент в Манастирски ливади - запад, София

6 / 10

Furnished apartment in Manastirski livadi - West, Sofia

210 m2

Обзаведен апартамент в Лозенец, София

5/5

Furnished apartment in Lozenets, Sofia

Rents

Find more on UES.bg / Ref. ID: 13767

Наем / Rent: € 1600

Find more on UES.bg / Ref. ID: 13632

Наем / Rent: € 2200

213 m2

Обзаведен апартамент в Докторска градина, София

4/4

Furnished apartment in Doctor’s garden, Sofia

150 m2

Обзаведен апартамент в Павлово, София

5/6

Furnished apartment in Pavlovo, Sofia

Find more on UES.bg / Ref. ID: 14211

Наем по запитване Price upon request

Find more on UES.bg / Ref. ID: 14465

Наем / Rent: € 1 250

U E S . B G +359 882 700 100

103

104

Find more on UES.bg / Ref. ID: 14104

170 m2

Обзаведен апартамент в Изгрев, София

10 / 10

Furnished apartment in Izgrev, Sofia

146 m2

Обзаведен апартамент в Лозенец, София

5/5

Furnished apartment in Lozenets, Sofia

Rents

Наем / Rent: € 1500

Find more on UES.bg / Ref. ID: 14214

Наем / Rent: € 1450