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Shhh — do you hear that? It’s the sound of rejuvenation. As we turn to that final page of the 2025 calendar, the need to lean away from the year’s business (and busy-ness) begins to emerge. Now is the time to relax your rhythm, to soften your schedule, to create space for contemplation. Settle in with a favorite beverage and the latest issue of Luxury State for stories of reflection and reconnection.
To start, where better to find space to think than in the vast expanse of the desert? Our Architecture story of design in the desert emphasizes high-end touches inspired by the beauty of the natural landscape and features that speak to peace and privacy.
A travel getaway can also offer an opportunity for a perspective shift or a chance to reconnect with loved ones. Read about family-friendly Alpine adventures in our Passport piece on the Dolomites, or check out our Lifestyle section to discover the socially conscious ways travelers are immersing themselves in local communities — all while enjoying new and exciting destinations.
Lastly, our Trending piece spotlighting the sauna lifestyle explores how saunas have been growing in popularity as a solution for wellness and self-care. They’ve also been promoted as a tool for longevity — and they just may be the perfect space for year-end reflection.
As we wrap up the year, we want to express our gratitude for being part of our journey. Wishing you peace, joy and new opportunities in 2026.
Enjoy this issue of Luxury State with our compliments.
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By Roger Grody
The mystique of the desert, equally reflective and immersive, inspires bold architectural statements without compromising the natural environment.
In desert environments across the globe, indigenous cultures, worked hard to create nurturing living spaces in harsh desert climates, and their innovations continue to inspire architects today. Since Frank Lloyd Wright first encountered the Sonoran Desert in Arizona — the establishment of his Taliesin West studio in 1937 was driven by a fascination with the landscape — architects have viewed these rugged environments as especially inviting canvases for reflection and meditation.
“We want the architecture to be a backdrop for engaging with the experience of the landscape,” explains DUST Architects Founding Principal Cade Hayes, whose Tucson-based firm specializes in modern desert residences offering reflective, soulful qualities. Natural materials are essential to the firm’s projects, and the use of rammed earth — an ancient building material consisting of compacted soil, clay or stone whose striations result in a pleasing organic aesthetic — is a DUST signature. “We’re always conscious of how the design is shaped by the senses,” says Hayes, who focuses on olfactory influences as well as the more obvious senses of sight
and touch. “We like to bring the landscape as close to the home as possible, because when breezes blow through desert flora, or when it rains, aromatic oils are released that have a calming effect.” For all its desert projects, DUST Architects provides generous terraces or patios, encouraging residents to fully engage with the environment.
Desert Design: A Palm Springs Specialty Wright’s disciples, mid-century modernists like Richard Neutra and Rudolph Schindler, began designing sleek residences whose clean lines and expansive windows seem well suited for the desert landscape. Today, Palm Springs, California, is a thriving testament to the marriage of modern residential design and the arid environment, celebrated annually with the city’s enormously popular Modernist Week. Contemporary architects are following in the mid-century masters’ footsteps, with deserts around the world attracting exceptional talent.
The Los Angeles-based architectural firm of Marmol Radziner honors Southern California’s
rich mid-century modern heritage and has built an impressive desert portfolio, including the masterful restoration of the Richard Neutradesigned Kaufmann House in Palm Springs. “For us, the desert is an incredibly beautiful and powerful tapestry of color and texture, and we want to connect with that landscape while recognizing that it’s a harsh environment,” says Managing Partner Leo Marmol. He suggests a sense of human vulnerability naturally leads to meditation, and emphasizes the importance of maintaining a visual connection to the landscape in all the firm’s desert projects. “Our relationship with the world beyond us brings a sense of awe, tranquility and peace,” says Marmol. Olson Kundig, an acclaimed Seattle firm known for introducing modern residential designs into remote natural environments, designed a home outside of Palm Springs that pays homage to the original desert settlement before the area exploded into a mecca for
BY JEFF GOLDBERG
Under the quiet shimmer of the night sky, the pool becomes a mirror of the stars, a seamless blend of design, serenity, and understated luxury.
tourists. The firm applied natural materials to achieve a harmonious coexistence with the surrounding desert landscape and created broad overhangs to provide shade in the summer — but allow the winter sun to warm the house. A central spine topped by a clerestory enhances circulation and diffuses natural light. The spine extends from the entryway to a plaza with reflecting pool. Commenting on this juxtaposition of mass and water, Olson Kundig Principal Jim Olson notes “the movement of wind across the water brings architecture to life and reflects the changing environment.”
In Scottsdale, Arizona, where the Sonoran Desert is confronted by a metropolis of 5 million people, Marmol Radziner designed a desert home with a bold, modern theme while still respecting the fragile environment. The intent was to weave this elaborate winter retreat seamlessly into the fabric of the desert, heightening awareness of the rugged, saguaro cacti-studded landscape while integrating indoor and outdoor spaces. “We like to incorporate local building materials and techniques, which help connect the residence to nature, even in a contemporary design,” says Marmol. In the Scottsdale project, he cites surfaces inlaid with local stone — it is a recurring feature in both exterior and interior spaces — that reflect this approach.
Similarly, in the harsh high desert of Idaho, an Olson Kundig residence nicknamed “Outpost” makes a statement amid the austere landscape, yet somehow hardly interrupts the region’s endless expanse. The elevated main living level offers 360-degree views of the desert and mountains, with nary a neighbor in sight. “When you grow up in the Palouse [the high desert prairies of the Northwest], you learn quickly how insignificant your place in that larger landscape is,” muses principal Tom Kundig.
Architect Daniel Joseph Chenin also designed Fort 137, a luxury residence with panoramic views of Red Rock Canyon outside of Las Vegas, with the intent to encourage an emotional connection to both the desert landscape and the rich history of Nevada. The house features a soaring 28-foot entry rotunda — a modern interpretation of an old frontier fort in the Silver State — that reflects the experiential approach of Chenin’s firm. That element serves as a transition between the external desert heat and the cooler interior, further enhanced by soothing sounds of a stone fountain. “In researching architecture that addresses the hot, arid climate of the Southwest, it took us back to some of the settlement structures of the pioneers of the 1800s,” explains Chenin. “The idea of a stacked rock structure, similar to forts designed by the settlers of the time, really resonated.” Further embracing an indoor-outdoor desert
Above/Below: Perched on Lake Constance, this 3,700-square-foot home pivots with the landscape to frame sweeping alpine views and embrace its lakeside setting.
lifestyle is a shaded courtyard set against a rugged backdrop that includes a 75-ton boulder excavated from the site.
Outside of Dubai, where the Al Wadi Desert meets the Persian Gulf at Ras Al Khaimah, Ritz-Carlton Residences is developing 35 private luxury villas, applying contemporary architectural elements to traditional Bedouin desert structures. The villas, slated for completion in early 2027, will feature clean lines and sustainable local materials while emphasizing a strong connection to the beautiful, forbidding desert environment. “With homes designed in harmony with the desert and amenities inspired by the local heritage, these Ritz-Carlton Residences are immersed in a lifestyle of quiet luxury,” says Jaidev Menezes, who oversees residential development for Marriott International in the region. With views of sweeping dunes and sunsets, these multimillion-dollar villas will ensconce residents in a desert landscape that has mesmerized explorers for millennia.
By Lisa Levi
The winter holidays are a season of celebration, centered around family, friends and the joy of giving. For many affluent travelers, that spirit of generosity is expanding to include travel plans that double as a chance to give back — without sacrificing any creature comforts. Inspired to share their own good fortune (and often, to give their children perspective on that privilege), ultrawealthy globetrotters are increasingly seeking experiences that combine exploration with purpose: journeys that not only enrich their own lives but also leave a lasting positive impact on local communities.
Enter luxury volontourism, also known as social impact travel: a growing trend where fivestar getaways meet meaningful engagement. In
the Pyrenees, for example, travelers can monitor biodiversity by day and retreat to a sleek spa hotel by night. In Zambia, they can help build homes while based at an exclusive eco-lodge. In Crete, they can protect endangered sea turtles while staying in a restored 16th-century estate. Each experience is curated, authentic and deeply personal, aligning travel with purpose and comfort with conscience.
A trailblazer in this arena is Hands Up Holidays, founded by Christopher Hill, a winner of the Travel + Leisure Global Vision Awards. As a young finance professional, Hill took a trip to South Africa, where he helped build a home
for a local family. The trip was so transformative that it inspired Hill to start a business creating similar experiences for others. Now, every Hands Up Holidays trip is tailor-made, designed to meet client specifications — from solo travelers to parents with young children. Destinations span the globe, offering a range of luxury accommodations and volunteer projects for every interest and skill set.
It’s an approach that reflects a growing ethos among high-end travelers: a desire to pair personal enrichment with global impact. Because time is precious, voluntourism trips allow travelers to make a tangible contribution within a short time frame. Beyond traditional building projects, there are opportunities in animal and environmental conservation,
A joyful exchange: by immersing in the local culture, you’ll learn as much from the people you help as they learn from you.
education, and community development — each a distinct way to make a difference to a family, a village, or the planet. Hill believes this desire for meaning is behind a shift he’s observed in travel bookings. “One trend we see is growth in intergenerational travel, which can be grandkids, parents and grandparents, or sometimes grandkids with grandparents (without the parents),” he says, adding that the trips instill “empathy, compassion and generosity in the children, and enable the grandparents to leave a legacy.”
Projects usually last anywhere from a few days to a week, but most of that time is not typically spent on the volunteer work itself — which, while rewarding, is only one aspect of what makes these trips so meaningful. Equally
important are the opportunities to sightsee, engage with the local culture, and bond with your travel companions over the shared experience of a completely different way of life. Luxury accommodations serve as home base and sanctuary — elegant spaces to relax and recharge before each day’s new adventure.
As you plan a volunteer trip, it’s essential to be mindful of your impact on the community you are going to help. That means packing a dose of humility, and recognizing that unless you are a construction or conservation expert, the technical work should be done by local professionals. Your role is to learn, assist and provide finishing touches, content
in the knowledge that your vacation costs are helping support the local specialists leading your project. Choosing a trip provider that collaborates closely with the host community also ensures their needs take priority. Reputable operators will address these issues candidly from the outset.
Many popular vacation areas also suffer environmental impacts from overtourism. You can minimize your footprint by traveling outside peak season and choosing less crowded destinations. Ideally, your provider will also partner with accommodations that center sustainability — without compromising refinement. For example, Hill says that Hands Up Holidays “lead[s] with sustainable, ecoluxury properties” such as Nayara Tented
Camp in Costa Rica, It’zana Resort in Belize, and Banyan Tree Mayakoba in Mexico. Another standout operator, Elevate Destinations, similarly pairs travelers with eco-luxury properties such as El Karama Eco Lodge in Kenya and the Wasai Puerto Maldonado Hotel in Peru. Through practices like generating their own electricity, using local materials, conserving water, and reducing waste, these resorts curb
their environmental impact without affecting the luxurious guest experience.
For many travelers, the allure of luxury voluntourism lies in its balance: the ability to immerse oneself in extraordinary comfort while engaging in meaningful work that uplifts others. It transforms the concept of luxury from mere indulgence into something richer — a reflection of empathy, responsibility, and global
awareness. In the end, the new definition of luxury isn’t just about where you stay, it’s about how your journey shapes the world you leave behind.
With social impact travel, get your hands dirty during the day and unwind in luxury at night.
“These journeys don’t just create memories —they pass on empathy, compassion, and legacy.”
By Jamie Yoos
No matter the climate, the wintertime is the season for coziness. The togetherness of the holidays, earlier sunsets and often chillier temperatures result in an atmosphere where comfort becomes a high priority. Check out this curated list of high-end pajamas, perfect for the cozier time of year, with options suitable for both cold and warm climates.
Olivia Von Halle Lila Liaisons Red Figures
Pajamas - $915
A hallmark name in the world of high-end pajamas, Olivia Von Halle has partnered with the renowned Hotel Costes in Paris to create limited-edition sleepwear that pays homage to the hotel’s three-decade legacy of Parisian “savoir-vivre.” The striking ruby red set is crafted from lavish silk devoré in the brand’s signature Lila silhouette and features bespoke, hand-drawn figures of bodies in motion with wisps of smoke that spell out ‘Costes.’ This exclusive set is the ultimate fusion of luxury and comfort.
Papinelle Cotton Cashmere Maxi
Robe - $370
Cotton and cashmere intertwine to create this lush, effortlessly chic maxi robe. The simple yet elegant design is perfect for lounging around or sipping morning coffee — and looking polished and cozy while doing so. Everything you love about a classic robe, amplified — the perfect neutral complement to any pair of PJs.
Turnbull & Asser Navy and Red Piped Cashmere Gown - $4,450
Made using the finest 100% cashmere and appointed with lush silk lining and piping, the distinguished Turnbull & Asser Navy and Red Piped Cashmere Gown is the pinnacle of sophistication. The plush piece exudes regality with its striking design and fit that is sure to make a statement at breakfast in the morning or while sipping a cocktail late at night.
La Perla MAISON Blue Long Nightgown with Frastaglio - $1,380
This dreamy blue La Perla Maison nightgown transcends elegance, crafted from stunning blue silk-satin, accompanied by delicate detailing known as frastaglio, a complex, antique Italian embroidery technique done completely by hand. The refined lightweight nightgown makes for comfortable cool evenings.
Derek Rose Blue Micromodal Short Basel Pyjama Set - $405
The list would not be complete without a classic baby blue pajama set. Ultra-soft micro modal meets thermostatic properties to help regulate body temperature, keeping the wearer perfectly snug. These lightweight pajamas are breathable, featuring short sleeves and short bottoms — wearable even on not-so-chilly nights.
Lunya Washable Silk High Rise Pant Set - $308
This poised, silk, high-rise set is a modern take on a classic pair of pajamas and is available in multiple timeless hues including a few limited-edition patterns. The cropped top paired with high-waisted, fulllength bottoms results in a fashionable and elegant look.
By Alyssa Gautieri
Unique Homes spoke with two interior designers who put well-being at the forefront of home design. Here’s how they create beautiful spaces
2025 was a year of intentional design, especially for spaces dedicated to boosting physical, mental and emotional health. Thoughtful choices — natural materials, circadian lighting, and restorative zones — can lower stress, support better sleep and improve everyday routines. Wellness imbues features ranging from nature-inspired color palettes, calming layouts, and layered lighting to dedicated spaces, like meditation rooms and at-home spas.
“Wellness design is about harmony, spaces that support rest, creativity and connection,” says Sarah Barnard, founder of Sarah Barnard Design. “Thoughtful design can help nurture mental and physical well-being by reducing stressors like clutter, harsh lighting and synthetic materials.”
From defining holistic interiors to breaking down how they weave wellness into home design, here’s what the pros have to say. Responses have been lightly edited for space and clarity.
Sarah Barnard is a WELL- and LEED-accredited designer and founder of Sarah Barnard Design, based in Santa Monica, California.
Why are homeowners gravitating toward more holistic living, and how does that translate to interiors?
Sarah Barnard: A holistic interior considers the entire ecosystem of the home, light, air, color, texture ,and a visual connection to the outdoors. It’s about creating spaces that feel alive and supportive, not just beautiful. Many homeowners want environments that reflect their values and help them feel grounded. Holistic design brings together sustainability, sensory comfort, and emotional well-being so every detail contributes to a more balanced daily life.
How do you design interiors that support well-being?
Barnard: I use natural textures, organic forms, and biophilic elements to create calm, flexible spaces that adapt to changing needs. Layout and acoustics matter as much as aesthetics: the overall environment, including its quiet and comfortable aspects, can help influence how we feel. My guiding principle is empathy: understanding how someone lives and what replenishes them.
What specific color palettes and textures bring wellness into a space?
Barnard: Nature-inspired palettes, soft greens, sands, and ocean blues can encourage calm and connection. I often layer neutrals with organic textures, allowing art and handcrafted pieces to bring warmth and individuality. Spaces that combine natural light, personal treasures and balanced color often feel restorative and timeless.
What role does lighting play in crafting a holistic interior?
Barnard: Lighting is one of the most powerful wellness tools. Natural daylight is ideal, but when that isn’t possible, I use layered, dimmable lighting to emulate it. Warm tones and soft diffusion can reduce strain and support circadian rhythm. Thoughtful lighting design helps the home feel attuned to the body’s natural rhythm, enhancing focus during the day and encouraging rest at night.
What layout decisions most affect stress, flow, and energy in a room?
Barnard: I prioritize open circulation paths, intuitive sightlines and uncluttered corners. Balanced symmetry can help to quiet the mind, while comfortable transitions between social and private zones allow for emotional flow.
Are more homeowners designing rooms dedicated to wellness?
Barnard: Yes. Dedicated wellness rooms are growing in popularity, but the fundamental shift is toward making every room supportive. Meditation corners, spa-inspired baths, and home workspaces with a focus on ergonomics are all rising trends. The goal is to create spaces that help restore energy and balance, whether that’s through stillness, movement or beauty.
Clodagh, an Irish-born designer known for her holistic approach, is the founder of the New York City-based Clodagh Design, a powerhouse in the design world since the 1980s.
Why are homeowners gravitating toward more holistic living, and how does that translate to interiors?
Clodagh: Holistically is the smartest and most fulfilling way to live. Utmost in our minds when designing and defining residential projects are sustainability, comfort, luxury and well-being. Invisible storage spaces are also key. One of our mantras at Clodagh Design is ‘to design the irritations out of people’s lives.’
How do you design interiors that support well-being?
Clodagh: Wellness design enhances the value of the property and the lives of all the members of the household. The first thing we do is interview the homes’ residents separately and thoroughly, so we can mesh all of their wishes. Often one of the residents is shy about sharing what they really want in front of their partner. We even go so far as to get their astrological signs and the signs of their children.
What specific color palettes and textures bring wellness into a space?
Clodagh: We favor soft earth tones to ground the body and interject vivid art and sensual sculptures that reflect the elements and senses. However, vivid accent walls and splashes of color — like fire red, indigo and ochre — also appear. A powder room is a place to play with color, but keep the relaxation areas in quiet colors. Gray,
black and camel can make well-behaved backgrounds and open the mind for thought, like in a home office.
What role does lighting play in crafting a holistic interior?
Clodagh: LED lighting is critical in crafting a home’s interiors. It reflects the mood and elevates the home. We consider lighting to be an artform in itself — glow but not glare. I always incorporate quality reading lights for an avid reader like me, and soft lighting with highlights on key art pieces for dining and lounging. Bathrooms should be lighted like a laboratory and have a dimmer to create a glow to allow you to dream in your tub.
What layout decisions most affect stress, flow, and energy in a room?
Clodagh: We follow the elements of Feng Shui in all of our residences. This ancient
Chinese practice attempts to align a space with the flow of energy to promote harmony and balance. We always have a Feng Shui expert as part of our design team. We are spiritual as well as physical beings, so we deal with space to make the invisible tangible and balanced.
Are more homeowners designing rooms dedicated to wellness?
Clodagh: Home gyms, saunas and meditation rooms are becoming more popular, as are private home spas, quiet rooms and reading rooms. Ever since the pandemic, more outdoor space is in demand, in both urban and country environments. Outside fire bowls are often part of our design for a sense of community and family togetherness. We want to create places where people can gather to converse and exchange ideas and put their devices to sleep for a while.
By Kassandra Burr
Designer-backed cafés appeal to gastronomes and fashion lovers alike
Now your napkin can carry a couture label, too. High fashion meets fine dining at these posh, designer-backed eateries. From gourmet cuisine to elegant afternoon teas, gastronomes with a taste for luxury fashion won’t want to miss these exclusive culinary experiences.
Gucci Osteria da Massimo Bottura – Beverly Hills, California
Everything is gucci on this Beverly Hills menu. From signature cocktails complete with Gucci-logo-engraved ice cubes to whimsically plated entrées, Gucci Osteria delivers a fine dining experience that leaves a lasting impression.
Located at Gucci’s Rodeo Drive boutique in Beverly Hills, California, this rooftop eatery is one of four Gucci Osteria locations around the globe. The space exudes style with its red marble tables, plush velvet booths, and artisanal, porcelain plates. Butterflies, colorful birds, lush foliage and other nods to the Gucci aesthetic flutter throughout the décor and menu.
Guided by famed Chef Massimo Bottura of the 3-Michelin-star Osteria Francescana, Gucci Osteria’s Head Chef Mattia Agazzi has crafted an imaginative menu. Seemingly simple dishes, like a baked potato, are transformed into refined cuisine using luxury ingredients, like black truffle. This, Agazzi explains, is an intentional choice inspired by his mother and nonna, who always managed to work magic with what they had.
The modern Italian menu showcases local California ingredients, putting a surprising twist on classic Italian cuisine. The Insalata di Mare, for instance, uses locally caught seafood poached for only a few seconds, deviating from the classic Italian method of cooking it for two hours. Guests can order from two menus, à la carte or tasting, and choose from several signature cocktails, including The Captain’s Chest, a whiskey suffused with colloidal gold and hickory wood smoke.
Other menu items include You and Me in Capri, which features a raviolo rosette stuffed with lemon ricotta, and Cod Milanese served with a lively tomato terrine, a reference to the restaurant’s mosaic patio floor. The simple yet brilliant Emilia Burger comes in a pretty pink Gucci-labeled box — which likely won’t be the only thing you leave with.
Three-star Michelin Chef Dominique Crenn takes Christian Dior’s designs from haute couture to haute cuisine at this chic Dallas café.
Café Dior, which opened February 2025 at the Highland Park Village boutique in Dallas, Texas, celebrates the late Christian Dior by interpreting his designs through artistic fare. “Each dish draws inspiration from Dior’s most iconic creations,” says Chef Dominique Crenn. For example, the Miss Dior Consommé features grains and edible flowers that emulate the “Miss
Dior” dress from the Monet-inspired Spring/ Summer 1949 line.
Other starters include Montaigne Garden, a zucchini and apple salad with a sherry vinaigrette, and Caviar D’Or paired with egg jam and smoked crème fraiche. Diners can enjoy lunch and dessert or partake in the newly added afternoon tea service, which includes savory and sweet bites, tea and champagne.
Flowers figure prominently in Christian Dior’s work, from embroidery to perfume and even the silhouettes of his iconic New Look, which draw inspiration from botanical anatomy. Inspired by the gardens of his mother, Madeleine, at Villa Les Rhumbs, his childhood home in Normandy, France, Christian Dior’s draw to flora gave vision to Crenn’s menu.
A botanical motif is woven throughout Crenn’s dishes, from the Sandwich Petites Fleurs, a sophisticated chicken salad sandwich featuring pain de mie and delicate purple flowers, to the Blooming Bouquet, a citrus curd adorned with flowers and herbs. “Here, couture is reimagined through ingredients that honor nature’s beauty and balance, uniting art, history, and responsible cuisine in a celebration of French art de vivre,” says Crenn.
Named one of Time’s 100 Most Influential People in 2024, the Franco-American chef also owns the renowned Atelier Crenn in San Francisco, California, which features pescatarian dishes made with responsibly sourced seafood and produce.
Crenn’s second collaboration with the fashion brand, Monsieur Dior, opened in Beverly Hills this fall, just down the street from Gucci Osteria. The menu echoes iconic Dior looks worn by Hollywood stars.
Below: A Café Dior menu item that can be ordered within the establishment.
Below: Precision meets artistry as delicate edible blooms are placed with intent — transforming the dish into a layered sensory experience.
Blue Box Café by Daniel Boulud – New York, New York
Fancy a breakfast at Tiffany’s? In the Upper East Side, you can enjoy breakfast, tea and even lunch at Tiffany & Co.’s Blue Box Café by Daniel Boulud.
Located on the sixth floor of the Tiffany & Co. Fifth Avenue Landmark Store, the Blue Box Café by Daniel Boulud opened in 2023 concurrently with the reveal of its flagship store’s redesign. “The Landmark is much more than a jewelry store,” says Anthony Ledru, president and chief executive officer at Tiffany & Co. “It is a cultural hub with an exquisite showcase of architecture and superior hospitality.”
Helmed by Michelin-starred Chef Daniel Boulud — named “World’s Best Restaurateur” in 2021 by French culinary association Les Grands Tables du Monde — the ritzy café offers a French-inspired menu with dishes as stunning as a Tiffany diamond.
With three culinary experiences to choose from — Breakfast at Tiffany’s, Tea at Tiffany’s and À la Carte — guests can order seasonal dishes, like the Confit de Canard, a duck confit paired with apricot jus and crushed potato, or indulge in the delightful Breakfast at Tiffany’s prix-fixe selection, which includes a winsome Egg in a Shell — a hollowed eggshell filled with scrambled eggs and topped with caviar. Available all day, the afternoon tea menu includes classic tea sandwiches, pastries, luxury teas and champagne.
Famed architect Peter Marino designed the café, which features the iconic Tiffany Blue color high and low, from its walls and menus to the beguiling chandelier-like installation of blue boxes hanging overhead. If jewelry shopping is on your holiday to-do list, don’t miss your chance at a refreshingly chic dining experience.
For parents, there are times when you want an adults-only retreat, and times when you want to make memories as a family. Winter break is the perfect opportunity to take the clan on a ski adventure, but does traveling with children mean you need to compromise on style or service?
The luxury world isn’t always welcoming of the littlest travelers, who could disrupt a five-star hotel’s carefully curated peace. But increasingly, high-end hospitality is rolling out the red carpet for children, with kid-friendly amenities and inhouse childcare while parents relax in peace.
Travel-savvy parents know the key to success is choosing your destination wisely, and for a country that adores children, look no further than Italy. In the Dolomite Mountains, a part of the Italian Alps bordering Austria, you will find family-friendly luxury that proves the highest standards can happily include guests of all ages.
This UNESCO World Heritage site enchants with soaring limestone peaks that glow pink at sunrise and sunset, offering some of the world’s most spectacular skiing. Set to host the 2026 Winter Olympics, the Dolomites have slopes that thrill expert skiers and gentler runs ideal for parents introducing their children to the sport.
“Since introducing our luxury ski experiences, including an itinerary in the Dolomites, we’ve seen incredible demand from families seeking a winter getaway that blends adventure, comfort and connection in some of the world’s most exclusive destinations,” said Amanda Wells, director of product and partnerships for Kensington Tours. “These trips go beyond skiing but include a mix of activities like sledding and snowshoeing that bring families together, paired with accommodations that are both luxurious and family friendly. It’s the perfect balance in one of the world’s most breathtaking mountain settings.”
The Dolomiti Superski region encompasses 12 interconnected ski resorts linked by a single skipass, with nearly 750 miles of slopes. Each resort boasts highly rated ski schools, many of which offer half-day programs for children so parents can enjoy the slopes — or the spa — child-free. Several luxury hotels collaborate directly with local resorts to create seamless family ski experiences.
By Lisa Levi
There’s more to do on the slopes than just skiing. Tobogganing is popular throughout the Dolomites, and as much fun for parents as it is for kids.
One standout is Cavallino Bianco, a Val Gardena gem designed exclusively for families. The property’s kids’ club whisks little ones off to ski school in nearby Ortisei and helps prepare them each morning for their lessons. Kids can also learn basic moves on site. “Each year, a small ramp is set up in the garden within our castle, where children can safely practice on the snow just steps away from Mom and Dad,” explains Alessia Sorrentino, who is the Marketing, Communication & Event Assistant at Cavallino Bianco. “If they wish, parents can watch the lessons directly from their suite, or — why not? — while relaxing in one of our heated outdoor pools.”
Family-focused luxury is no rarity in the Dolomites. Many four- and five-star properties feature expansive kids’ clubs, creative play zones and professional childcare, all available well into the evening. In addition to its ski program, for example, Cavallino Bianco offers separate play spaces for infants through teens, and a full calendar of activities — from crafts
and cooking classes to farm visits, horseback riding, trampoline fun and live theater.
Hotel Quelle Nature Spa Resort, on the other hand, is located near the Kronplatz ski area and focuses on wellness. It bills itself as “a spa for the whole family.” The hotel features a sauna and several serene swimming pools that welcome children, alongside adultsonly sanctuaries to enjoy when the kids are off playing in their own spaces. According to the hotel’s site, the new, almost 1,300 sq ft Kids Club with Players Lounge offers interactive games, a children’s kitchen and dining table and craft areas. Their program for children ages 3 and up goes beyond free childcare and includes activities like face painting, origami, parkour, outdoor adventures, and even a private mini cinema. Other luxury properties in the Dolomites with similar family offerings include AKI Family Resort PLOSE, Hotel Fameli, Falkensteiner Family Resort Lido, and Hotel Winkler.
Cavallino Bianco Family Spa Grand Hotel is exclusively for guests traveling with children, so you can explore all the hotel’s heated indoor and outdoor pools together.
sledding and more
Beyond the slopes and hotel, a winter wonderland beckons. Ice skating is a beloved local pastime for all ages, and there are many rinks to choose from — none more iconic than the Olympic Ice Stadium in Cortina d’Ampezzo. Host of the 1956 Winter Olympics and featured in the 1981 James Bond film For Your Eyes Only, this glass-enclosed rink is an architectural masterpiece. Recently renovated, it also features a playground for younger children. With the Winter Olympics returning to Cortina in 2026, travelers may wish to visit earlier in the season for a quieter stay.
Next, strap on your helmets for some oldfashioned sledding fun. Most ski resorts offer toboggan rides, and some such as Kronplatz even offer moonlight sled runs for an extra dose of family magic. For something bolder, zipline adventures offer high-speed thrills:
Zipline Monte Pana in Val Gardena sends you soaring above the valley at up to 55 mph, while Adrenaline X-Treme Adventures near Kronplatz boasts Europe’s longest zipline — ideal for daring kids and teens.
Indulge in relaxation
If tranquility beckons, step into the past with a horse-drawn sleigh ride or a torchlit evening walk beneath the stars. Between excursions, wander through the Dolomites’ famous Christmas markets, where you can shop for artisanal gifts while the children sip hot cocoa and take in the magic of twinkling lights. When it comes to dining, there’s no need to sacrifice refinement for family-friendliness. Across the Dolomites, fine dining establishments extend their characteristic Italian warmth to children. Among the Michelin-recognized options, Ristorante Tubladel in Ortisei, Fana
PHOTO BY HARALD WISTHALER
Ladina in San Vigilio Marebbe, and La Stua de Michil in Corvara are known for being child-friendly. And for parents wishing to enjoy an elegant evening à deux, a host of elite restaurants await. Michelin-starred Terra in Sarentino offers contemporary chalet chic, serving Chef Heinrich Schneider’s innovative creations paired with his sister Gisela Schneider’s impressively curated wine list. At the helm of AlpiNN in Plan de Corones is Chef
Norbert Niederkofler, holder of three Michelin stars. The restaurant is visually striking, a glass box suspended in the sky atop two towering stilts. Both AlpiNN and Terra celebrate the Dolomites’ natural abundance, with sweeping Alpine views and transcendent food made from local and wild ingredients.
In a world where luxury often means exclusivity, the Dolomites redefine indulgence as inclusion, welcoming families to share in their serene beauty without compromise. Here, the art of hospitality extends beyond service and design: it’s an invitation to experience wonder together.
Enjoy the breathtaking mountain scenery on skis, on foot or even from a sleigh ride. This stunning UNESCO World Heritage site is even more beautiful when shared with the people you love the most..
By Michelle Konstantinovsky
The hottest new wellness trend isn’t actually all that new, but it is literally hot. While cold plunges had their moment atop the ever-changing list of in-vogue health movements, saunas are proving to be the next indispensable experience for au courant travelers. Sauna culture around the globe has experienced a major upgrade in recent years, incorporating cutting-edge technology, stunning surroundings and unprecedented luxury. Here are some of the world’s hottest sauna spots.
Ærth Saunas — Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
As Victoria’s newest wellness oasis, Ærth Saunas is a go-to destination for total rejuvenation in British Columbia. The open-air facility features two saunas, each crafted from a different type of wood. The Quiet Sauna is a no-talking space designated for stillness and reflection, while the Ceremony Sauna is all about connection and transformation, created specifically for guided rituals, breathwork and shared experiences. Another major perk of the property sure to delight anyone burned out on too much tech: Ærth institutes a strict no-phone policy, in an effort to keep the focus on full, immersive healing.
Located on the Alpine foothills in Eastern Switzerland, the Grand Resort Bad Ragaz is considered a preeminent European wellness resort. Guests have their choice of 15 different sauna experiences, including a traditional Finnish experience, a blood-pumping steam bath, a bio-sauna featuring medicinal herbs and much more. The property’s Kelo infusion sauna — the largest infusion sauna in Switzerland — features mood lighting, relaxing music and invigorating scents to stimulate the senses.
Located in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains, Desolation Hotel Hope Valley is a first-class wellness property for outdoor enthusiasts and relaxation seekers alike. Offering authentic, elevated experiences, the property’s accommodations include everything from historic cabins and luxury yurts to Airstream trailers and immersive campgrounds. In addition to picturesque hiking trails and a variety of dining options, the destination features an array of unique wellness experiences, including its signature wood-fired sauna. Inspired by centuries-old Eastern European traditions, the amenity blends natural elements with top-tier luxury, offering guests the opportunity to completely unwind their bodies and minds.
New Zealand’s premier holiday lodging received a million-dollar makeover in March 2025 after a century of serving the world’s most elite sauna-goers. Located near the Waikato River and broader Taupō region, on the central plateau of the country’s North Island, Huka Lodge has been renovated to cater to a whole new generation of travelers. The property’s new wellness grounds, set amongst a peaceful, secret garden, feature a series of huts that draw design inspiration from traditional New Zealand architecture. In addition to a gym and two spa treatment rooms, the sauna is accompanied by a surprise ice contrast shower and a steaming plunge pool.
By Camilla McLaughlin
It’s the season of giving, and this year we’re taking stock of what many would consider priceless, with a curated list of luxury gifts that inspire good feelings all around. Some focus on wellness, while others center on experiences, art and creating lasting memories.
Gift Serene Space (above)
ELMNTL provides a unique offering of completely customizable dwellings that connect you with nature. Whether you’re dreaming of a specialized sauna, a bespoke cabin for guests, or extra living space, this one-of-a-kind platform brings your unique vision to life. The goal is to foster a love for the fragile, wild, natural world. “To us, a cabin or sauna is an extension of nature itself, so we build with a spirit of adventure, fun, and obsessive care for the environment,” says CEO Vlad Dubovskiy. It’s the company’s innovative turnkey system that also makes the process efficient and exciting. Take Me on a Story (right)
What’s better than a childhood classic? These immersive journeys allow favorite tales to leap right off the pages. With customtailored trips that celebrate classics such as “Call of the Wild” (Alaska), “Alice in Wonderland” (Oxfordshire), “Treasure Island” (British Virgin Islands), “Journey to the Center of the Earth” (Iceland), and others, the travel experts at Black Tomato bring beloved stories to life by following in the footsteps of your favorite characters.
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Doing Good and Looking Even Better (right)
Cesta bags have been celebrated in Vogue and Harper’s Bazaar, but the brand’s story is as compelling as the designs. Each piece begins its journey in the hills of Rwanda, where talented female artisans weave sisal into baskets. The handcrafted process continues in Italy, where each basket is transformed into a handbag using traditional techniques. Founded by two fashion industry veterans, Cesta Collective also has a strong environmental story.
Rare Gems and Custom Designs (below)
More than 20 years ago, Monica Rich Kosann designed her first lockets to tell an individual’s unique story. Today, showcasing those memories and histories remains at the heart of MRK collections, which range from simple gold or silver pieces to those encrusted with one-of-a-kind rare gems. Perfect for one of a kind gifting, the brand also offers options to create custom pieces that tell a truly unique, personal story.
Fitness (right)
Even the most well-equipped home gym will be elevated with handcrafted gear from Pent Luxury Fitness Equipment, often considered the pinnacle of fitness luxury. Choose a basic setup or outfit an entire gym or Pilates studio. The look, feel, and functionality of these products are sure to impress.
Masterpiece Within a Masterpiece (left)
For the ultimate in quiet luxury, escape to 1 Place Vendôme, Paris, an intimate boutique hotel in an 18th-century building that houses luxury jeweler Chopard. Bearing the name of a gemstone, each room or suite is exquisite, but the true masterpiece is a secret sanctuary showcasing a Winter Garden by Fantini Mosaici. Here, a captivating landscape of peacocks, butterflies, monkeys, pandas, exotic birds, and tropical flowers awaits. Thousands of hand-cut tiles in sapphire, ruby, emerald, and gold tones adorn the walls, while turquoise stones form a mosaic floor that unfurls. The hotel might embody whisper-quiet luxury, but the Winter Garden is a stunning display of beauty and craftsmanship.
By Roger Grody
Horticulturist Stephen Block reminds us that the meditative, therapeutic power of plants is not limited to the garden.
Creating a thriving “plantscape” inside the home — whether that home is a 500-sq-ft studio in Manhattan or a sprawling Beverly Hills estate — offers both aesthetic and emotional enrichment for occupants. Stephen Block, founder and president of Southern California-based Inner Gardens, elevates interiors through rare species of flora and unique vessels in which to present them. With clients like Elton John, Sofia Vergara and Cher, plus commercial projects that include Wolfgang Puck’s Spago and the Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills, Block is a true celebrity-caliber horticulturist.
Early in his career, Block began collecting antiques, initially experimenting with rusty cans as vases but eventually elevating his inventory for a luxury clientele while adjusting to emerging trends. “The industry has been moving away from lush, oversized tropical foliage toward a more architectural and minimalist aesthetic,” says Block, who appreciates the Japanese principle of wabisabi, an ancient concept of beauty based on the imperfect, transient or incomplete. “If it’s too perfect, it doesn’t interest me,” quips Block, who instead believes cracks, blemishes and patinas developed over decades or centuries have the power to unlock the human responses of reflection and meditation.
When evaluating an interior space, Block first assesses the lighting, which dictates what species can flourish in that location. “It’s important to get the scale right,” he says. “We strive to complement the interior architecture and design.” Favoring twisted trunks and patinaed vessels, the designer explains that “organic asymmetry and natural flaws become part of a plant’s character, creating a sense of calm and a meditative atmosphere.” He notes quieter, more contemplative compositions can transform a terrace or corner of a room into a serene, Zen-like retreat. Block cites juniper, bonsai black pine, maple, and Ficus palmeri as plants that bring a peaceful, reflective quality to a space.
“A lot of what Inner Gardens does is to provide the ‘jewelry,’” says Block. “Some of our work is theater, and the unexpected is generally much more interesting than the expected.”
Later living, senior living, successful aging — no matter the moniker, all these euphemisms reflect a new attitude regarding growing old.
By Camilla McLaughlin
Senior living might seem the last chapter in the book of life, but a turn of the page today opens to a seemingly vast, surprisingly vivacious landscape. Once, the traditional path for aging was to live independently and then, as health or age demands, move into a care community or bring caregivers into the home. Aging in place remains a strong pull, but new communities featuring upscale residences and an elevated lifestyle are upending conventional notions.
“Traditional senior living is built around essentials — an apartment, meals, programs and housekeeping,” says Sarah Laloyan, senior vice president of operations for Coterie communities at Hudson Yards in Manhattan and in San Francisco. “We believe aging is worth celebrating. That philosophy is reflected in every detail, from architecture and interiors to wellness programs and dining.”
“Later living” is how Auriens Chelsea characterizes this next phase. This London retirement community is setting a new gold standard in independent living in the U.K., blending the elegance of a five-star hotel, the exclusivity of a private members’ club, and the holistic focus of a wellness retreat.
“Combined with world-class amenities and exceptional service, Auriens represents a reimagining of later life, one that not only supports independence, but actively celebrates it,” says Julie Fawcett, CEO of Auriens Group.
“Successful aging means more high-quality years doing what you love,” says Tom Mann,
vice president of sales and marketing for Moorings Park, a luxury retirement community with three campuses in Naples, Florida. “In practice, that‘s personalized fitness, purposeful social connection, smart nutrition, and evidence-informed clinical oversight, all wrapped in a lifestyle people are excited to wake up to,” he says. “That’s easy to say, but very difficult to execute. What makes Moorings Park Communities unique is that all of those disciplines work together to create a holistic approach to successful aging.“
In some cities, empty nesters and recently retired individuals dominate interest in new rental communities. At 55-plus communities such as Latitude Margaritaville or The Villages (the largest senior community in the U.S.), it’s party time. Other neighborhoods designated solely for seniors offer homes in age-qualified settings. Meanwhile, a number of structured communities, either nonprofit or created by a growing cadre of corporations focused on senior living, offer a blend of independent living, assisted living and even higher levels of care in a model known as a continuing care or life plan community.
One catalyst advocating community is a growing body of data from the World Health Organization and others highlighting the health implications of social isolation. Research conducted by Auriens revealed 90% of the over-65 age group feel disconnected from their communities, and 5% report having no daily
social interactions. Strikingly, the wealthiest seem the loneliest, with 100% of those over-65 living in homes valued over £3 million (~$4 million) reporting feeling socially disconnected.
Knowing the “what ifs” of aging will be taken care of is essential for residents at Moorings Park, according to Mann. “The average person moving into a Moorings Park community is in their early to mid-70s. They could easily afford to bring home health into their [private, single-family] houses, but they’re smart enough to know the benefits of living within a community. These successful professionals are planners who want to be in charge of their own fate. They are also people who have never compromised on quality, so why should they start now? Once they discover our country club lifestyle, with the amenities and services we offer, they tend to stay put for the rest of their lives. That’s not to say that they don’t visit their second home elsewhere, but Moorings Park becomes their base home.”
Auriens’ mission is similar. “What truly distinguishes Auriens is our fundamental belief that life should remain rich in purpose, connection and joy at every stage,” says Fawcett. “We offer a lifestyle that seamlessly combines independent living with discreet, personalized support, empowering our residents to continue living life on their own terms. Our approach is rooted in a holistic understanding of well-being, with equal emphasis placed on physical health, cognitive
vitality and emotional fulfillment.
“Our communities are designed for people who want to continue living richly, surrounded by opportunities to connect with others and to continue to learn and grow. We’ve made it our mission to create places where neighbors become friends and families feel welcome to be part of day-to-day life,” says Coterie’s Laloyan.
London, Naples, San Francisco, and New York might be very different places, but these upscale communities share similar features. Top architects and interior designers design residences — and service is superlative. At Auriens, for example, a 24/7 concierge team orchestrates everything from reservations to tech issues. A house car and chauffeur are available for trips around central London. A luxury cinema, speakeasy bar, pool and fitness spaces are complemented by an elegant restaurant and kitchen helmed by a former chef of The Savoy.
Health amenities, from curated fitness to physical therapy to wellness treatments, are also central to each property. Continuing care communities include assisted living and often nursing care. At Moorings Park, a concierge doctor is included in each resident’s contract. “Our doctors work exclusively for us. As far as I know, Moorings Park is the only life plan community in the country with our own concierge doctors,” shares Mann. In these communities, a new old age is a way of life rather than a catchy slogan.
