Author Archives: Teri Chong

Chinese Sculptor Xu Xiaoyong on Working with Pewter for the Celestial Blessings Collection

Originally from Jiangxi, China, Xu Xiaoyong is renowned in China, and his sculptures of Chinese deities are extremely popular works of art for the home. Recently, we spoke to Xu about the Celestial Blessings Collection, which he designed for Royal Selangor.

What attracted you to collaborate with Royal Selangor?
It is a corporation with 130 years of heritage in traditional craft; there is “pewter” in the blood of every member of the Royal Selangor family.

How did Chinese mythology and legend become such a crucial aspect in your work?
In ancient China, our forefathers liked to use metaphor or stories to express their opinions; I like it this way, too!

Where does your passion for celestial deities originate from?
From“truthfulness, kindness and beauty”. In other words, only by truly understanding what is meant by “truthfulness, kindness and beauty” can we rise above mortals and live with genuine freedom, the way the deities do.

How is working with Pewter different from materials that you’ve worked with in the past?
Raw materials are usually a key concern when it comes to the expression of traditional arts. Having said that, as a contemporary artist, I am looking at materials for their ability to express. Throughout my career, I have worked with different materials for different subject matters, the most being wood.

However, when I first came across pewter, I became fond of it because of the shade of its hues and the approachable tactile feel. Subdued? Peaceful? Understated elegance? It is rather hard to put into words. I would describe it as having “a shade of Zen”. If you lead a worry-free life, it will be reflected in your bearing. It is kind of expression of a person’s “shade” or “tone”, like “gold”; or, it is likened to someone with profound knowledge but stay “low profile”, like “silver”; or, it can be compared to someone “positive but never arrogant”, making him such a pleasure to be with, like “tin”. That’s what I meant by “a shade of Zen”.

Guan Yin (Goddess of Mercy) by Xu Xiaoyong

What makes this collection different from the traditional figures venerated and worshipped by the Chinese?
Deities are intrinsically the same; the differences lie in the image and artistic expression. Statues made by different artists will naturally be different. As a maker of statues of celestial beings and deities, I must first and foremost, work with a serious mindset and refer to literature and classics to understand the development of this tradition through the ages. This, coupled with other external influences and contemporary features, will enable us to create a work of art that is infused with life.

Did you have a particular type of customer demographic in mind when designing this collection based on Chinese mythology?
There is an old saying in China, “Gold will shine through” (if something is authentic, it will stand the test of time). Traditional Chinese culture is built upon the wisdom of sages from bygone eras, based on an understanding of peaceful and harmonious coexistence between Man and Nature. This wisdom is increasingly proved by scientists and advocated by the well-informed. This range is inspired by the written works; and yet, they are a form of expression different from that of words. They are created with joy and are a blessing for those who appreciate them.

Where do you find the inspiration for your art pieces?
The artist Rodin once said, “Artists should not depend on inspiration. Inspiration simply doesn’t exist! Art is feeling. If you know nothing about volume, proportion and colours, and if you don’t have a pair of agile hands, then the strongest feeling will be paralysed. What makes a great artist is nothing more than wisdom, concentration, sincerity and will power, and work in much the same way an honest worker does”. I fully agree with Master Rodin. Put in a lot more effort than others normally do, and the so-called “inspiration” will be there by your side, whichever way you turn to.

Fu Lu Shou (Three Star Deities) by Xu Xiaoyong

What did you enjoy the most from this collaboration?
Mutual respect. As an artist, I need a lot of room for creativity throughout the entire process. Meanwhile, as an established corporation with over a hundred years of history, Royal Selangor would normally have a lot of things they insist on and won’t give in to in order to achieve sustained development. In reality however, the room for creativity the company has allowed me not only speaks of their youthfulness, but also freedom.

Can we expect more pieces in the future from your collaboration with Royal Selangor?
Who knows, in a world of constant change, nothing is certain. However, I treasure the present, every moment of it. Perhaps, you too will one day discover that each present moment holds many interesting stories.

Words by Robbie Wilson. For more information, visit Royal Selangor.

From: Palace #18.

Save

Shama Medini Iskandar Joins Malaysia’s Fast Expanding Luxury Property Market

Iskandar Malaysia, home to 2,217 square kilometres of economic opportunities, is leaving most of Malaysia in its wake as a development hotspot. An increasing number of projects are ushering in people from across the region to the southern tip of peninsular Malaysia.

Part of the UMLand Medini Lakeside masterplan, which sits across from Legoland, Shama Medini features 213 serviced apartments. Within the upscale development, residents and guests will have access to retail in UMC Mall, as well as multiple restaurants, a gym, swimming pool, kids’ play areas, outdoor pavilion and a surau within the development itself. Covering more than two hectares, the development overlooks a beautiful five-hectare lake.

There’s an enormity of things going on in this region of Malaysia. Besides the aforementioned Legoland with its seven themed areas of family fun, there’s also a number of universities based there. EduCity, a fully integrated education hub, plays host to a number of international universities including the University of Southampton, Raffles University and Newcastle University. Students can live on campus and receive an international education from a top university, all while not being too far from home.

Pinewood Studios can also be found in Iskandar. Many people will be familiar with the British studio due to its part in producing the Harry Potter film series in the U.K. The 50-acre site has turned Johor Bahru into a regional hub for producing television shows and films. Netflix’s Marco Polo series was shot here. Just down the street, Kota Iskandar, the administrative capital of the region, sits in a vast complex near the luxurious Puteri Harbour with its waterfront shops and restaurants only moments away.

Other than the incredible Shama Medini development and the attractions in the region, there are further incentives to move to and invest in Medini. When it’s time to sell your property, there’s no real property gain tax up to 2020. As a foreigner, you can purchase property here, and if you plan to open a business, there’s a 10-year corporate tax exemption for approved companies. These tax incentives stretch even further with reduced income tax for qualified knowledge workers.

UMCity is just a hop, skip and a jump (10-minute drive) from the Malaysia-Singapore Second Link, and only 15 minutes from Johor Bahru. The proposed high speed rail link with nearby Gerbang Nusajaya station will offer even faster connections to Singapore and the rest of Malaysia.

South Korean company Samsung C&T, famous for building the Petronas Twin Towers and the Burj Khalifa have been contracted to build the tower. The construction is set to be completed in the third quarter of 2018. Shama Medini will feature a range of different sized units. From studios at 583 sq. ft. all the way up to three beds, with the largest topping out at 1,192 sq. ft., the development offers great options for singles, couples and large families alike.

All units will be operated by Onyx Hospitality Group. Owners will also have access to the Shama Privilege Card, bringing perks above and beyond your typical investment including 14-days of free stay at Shama Medini. Forecasted annual returns are expected to be high in this sought-after development.

For those of you looking to move to the region or are purely looking to invest in property within Malaysia, Shama Medini should definitely be on your radar. It offers a great location, lots of potential for future development, and is a renowned quality product from UMLand and Shama.

TOP 5 REASONS TO INVEST IN MEDINI

1. Growth Location

2. No Real Property Gains Tax

3. No Sales Restriction on Foreign Ownership

4. 10-Year Corporate Tax Exemption for Approved Companies

5. Reduced Income Tax for Qualified Knowledge Workers

Words by Robbie Wilson. For more information, visit www.shamamedini.com.my

From: Palace #18.

Save

From Maldives to Monaco to Manhattan, Here are the 10 Most Luxurious Hotel Rooms

We have covered the most expensive yachts, and so this time we’re jumping to our next favourite luxury item: hotels. Boasting lush furnishings and designer interiors, luxury hotel rooms each have their own character. From floor to ceiling glass windows to infinity pools, we bring to you the list of the top 10 most expensive luxury hotel rooms to date.

1 | The Royal Penthouse Suite, President Wilson Hotel, Geneva

The most expensive hotel room on this list is the Royal Penthouse Suite at the President Wilson Hotel in Geneva. For more than £50,000 per night, you can lounge on a 1,700 square metre terrace with stunning views of the mountain-lined Lake Geneva. IF you’re feeling up to it, you could play a few tunes on the Steinway grand piano, wash in your pick of 12 marble bathrooms and sleep soundly behind bulletproof glass. No wonder this is the most costly of the lot!

2 | Owner’s Villa, Cheval Blanc Randheli, Maldives

This abode is designed by renowned designer Jean Michel Gathy. The stunning villa rests on its own private island, giving guests time away from the bustle of the mainland. The villa is home to four bedrooms, and has a 25-metre swimming pool and outdoor shower. With dedicated chefs to cater to your taste buds and only provides quality Guerlain products for your comfort, this villa is sure to provide a luxurious experience. Price provided upon request.

3 | Ty Warner Penthouse, Four Seasons Hotel New York, New York

Fancy looking down at the glorious city that never sleeps? This hotel room is your best bet! The highest hotel suite in New York City, Four Season Hotel New York’s Ty Warner Penthouse is designed by renowned architect I.M Pei and Peter Marino. The suite is a vision of elegance and uses artisan materials—stamped Venetian velvet, Chinese onyx and Japanese silk—for its interiors. With four glass balconies and floor to ceiling windows, enjoy your stay with uninterrupted 360-degree views. A night’s stay costs £36,956.

4 | Hilltop Villa, Laucala Island, Fiji

Escape from reality at this glorious tropical paradise for £34,086. Perched atop Laucala’s high green hills, the Hilltop Villa at Laucala Island boast panoramic views from its lap pool. Despite its unusual design, the villa is no less luxurious. Guests will have access to verdant, landscaped gardens as well as to a nanny, private cook and chauffeur. What’s more, they can also explore the plantations and beaches on the estate’s Fijian horses.

5 | The Palace, Jumeirah Bodrum Palace, Bodrum

Located along the coastline of Bodrum, this spectacular hotel is the one stop place for opulence and luxury. With accommodations ranging from villas to suites, each room offers a spectacular view of the Aegean Sea. This resort covers 110,000 square metres, and for £28,872 a night, you won’t ever be bored. The pool even has gold lion statues!

6 | Shahi Mahal Suite, Raj Palace, Jaipur

Live like a Maharaja for just £28,595! An actual palace built in the 1700s, step into a piece of history. The suite is dressed in ivory and gold accents, proving to be the definition of opulence. Accessed through a private entrance through the Charbagh gardens and decorated in gold leaf, the suite has a theatre, library and roof terrace with whirlpool tub.

7 | Penthouse Suite, Grand Hyatt Cannes Hotel Martinez, Cannes

Another hotel steeped in history, the Grand Hyatt Cannes Hotel Martinez has hosted many celebrities and stars during the annual Cannes Film Festival. The suite is one of the largest in Europe, and overlooks the Boulevard de la Croisette, the Bay of Cannes and the hotel’s private beach. Prices start at £27,416 for the suite.

8 | Amanyara Villa at Amanyara in the Turks and Caicos

Known for being one of the best hotels in the industry, Aman resorts does it again. Combining indoor and outdoor living, lounge around in this £22,540 luxury villa in the Turks and Caicos. Take a dip in the black infinity pool or sit back and relax on one of the many day beds. Rooms are serviced by plenty of staff, with golf buggies provided for easy access around the 18,000-acre nature reserve the hotel occupies.

9 | Presidential Suite, St Regis, New York

With floor to ceiling windows that overlook Fifth Avenue, best for a little city living. For a true Upper East Side experience, guests are allowed to access the hotel’s Day & Night Bentley Fleet. Costing £22,539 a night, the plush accommodation is guaranteed to give you one of the most comfortable stays ever.

10 | Two Storey Sky Villa, Palms Casino Resort, Las Vegas

Last on our list is this magnificent penthouse in Las Vegas. Sin City is home to the grandest and biggest hotels in the world, so it’s no doubt that Palms Casino Resort is one of the 10 on this list. For £22,531 (weekends) and £12,893 (weekday), you’ll have access to a rotating bed, glass elevator, and an amazing glass enclosed swimming pool overlooking The Strip. The penthouse also has a dry sauna as well as 24-hour butler service for your needs.

For more luxurious hotels, see the full list on Telegraph UK.

Words by Teri Chong.

From: Luxuo.

Save

These are the Top 10 Most Expensive Yachts, Owned by the World’s Billionaires and Royalty

If you’ve been paying attention, you would have noticed our healthy obsession with yachts. From small fleets to mega and explorer yachts, we’ve covered them all. These luxury fleets are the epitome of sophistication and extravagance, proving to be the ultimate symbol of what luxury lifestyle stands fro. Fitted with cinemas, concert halls and even onboard beaches these yachts show us how to live the life of luxury, we bring to you the top 10 most expensive luxury yachts in the world.

1 | Eclipse ($1.5 billion/$485 million)

Owned by Russian billionaire Roman Abromavich, Eclipse is the most expensive yacht on our list. Eclipse is a monstrous 528 foot stunner and is the second largest private yacht in the world. Built by Blohm + Voss Hamburg Shipyard, this yacht does not hold back on its features. On top of two helicopter pads as well as a mini-submarine, Eclipse is equipped with a missile detection system and bulletproof windows as part of its defence mechanism. Rumour has it that it even has lasers to deter the paparazzi!

2 | Azzam ($600 million)

With the title of the largest private yacht in the world, Azzam is a ship to marvel at. With a length of 590 feet, it edges out Eclipse to grab the crown. This monster was manufactured by Lürssen Yachts, and owned by Sheikh Khgalifa bin Zayed al-Nayan, President of the United Arab Emirates and Emir of Abu Dhabi. Boasting a timeless and innovative design that doesn’t curb the ferocity of this yacht, Azzam is able to reach an impressive top speed of nearly 30 knots.

3 | Superyacht ‘A’ ($400 million)

Named after the initials of its Russian billionaire owner Andrey Melnichenko, ‘A’ is an A class yacht. This 394-foot superyacht is designed by Philippe Starck and has an original contemporary design. Housing a 2500 square foot master bedroom as well as six guest suites, the interiors are made versatile with moving walls. Crystal, yacht glass and mirrors drip all over the interior, with a prevalence in both the interior and furniture. All things exotic seem to be in style, with white stingray hides adorning the walls while crocodile skin furniture litter the yacht.

4 | Dubai ($400 million)

At 524 feet, Dubai is the yachting equivalent of its namesake. The third largest private yacht in the world is owned by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, ruler of Emirate of Dubai and Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates. The yacht comes with seven gorgeous decks, perfect for relaxing, along with a small submarine to view the marine life that live below.

5 | Al Said ($300 million)

Fashioned from an aluminium base, Al Said is another superyacht stunner. Its interiors are designed by Redman Whitely Dixon, with more than enough facilities to accommodate up to 70 people — on top of a crew of 154. Perhaps the most opulent part of this yacht is its concert hall, large enough to host a 50-piece orchestra.

6 | Serene ($330 million)

Billionaire Yuri Scheffler sure knows his vodka — and his yachts. Entrusting Fincantieri to create his private yacht, the firm presented to him, “Serene”. The yacht has a combined 48,000 square feet of covered space across seven decks, featuring a fully equipped spa, cinema and even a wood fire pizza oven. Its amazing leisure and entertainment facilities will ensure that you never want to step foot off the yacht.

7 | Pelorus Yacht ($300 million)

This yacht is so extensive it is home to a collection of smaller boats on the tender deck. The Pelorus is owned by Roman Abramovich and has a length of 377 feet. Cabins in the Pelorus see distressed planking as floorboards, to create an earthy atmosphere. One of the guest suites features a movable wall, which when lowered can transform into a private veranda. It looks to be like Pelorus aims for a more informal form of luxury — a testament to true relaxation in style.

8 | The Rising Sun ($300 million)

Members of the glitterati that have been seen lounging on this ship include Leonardo DiCaprio. The Rising Sun boasts 8000 square metres of living space, with 82 rooms spread out across five levels. It even has on-board basketball courts that double as helipads should the need arise.

9 | Dilbar ($263 million)

A vision dressed in bronze and ivory accents, Dilbar is elegance on water. Don’t be fooled by this yacht’s graceful exterior though. Powered by a 30,000kw Diesel electric power plant, she is able to sail at speeds of 22.5 knots. Despite being surrounded by ocean, Dilbar doesn’t skimp on its indoor pool. Her 180 cubic metre pool is stated to be the largest on any yacht. In addition to her magnificent pool, Dilbar is able to carry 20 guests and 47 crew members.

10 | Lady Moura ($210 million)

Get ready; this yacht has some seriously luxurious facilities. Besides having its name and escutcheon made from 24-karat gold, Lady Moura also comes with a pool with a retractable roof. But the highlight of the entire yacht is undoubtedly its extendable beach. The sand bar slides out from beneath the boat’s hull and can be adjusted to sit just at the waterline. If that doesn’t awe you enough, the onboard beach comes with palm trees to create the perfect oasis.

Words by Teri Chong. From: Luxuo.

Save

Dunia Baru and Lamima are Traditional Bugis Charter Escapades You Will Love

Yacht Style has featured phinisis in earlier issues, plus traditional craft available from Aman resorts in Thailand and Indonesia. No Asia-Pacific Charter Focus would be complete without an account of two most active ones, Dunia Baru and Lamima.

Phinisi is the generic name given to the big wooden Bugis Boats, hand-made in Makassar and southern Borneo, which are still engaged in inter-island trade throughout the Indonesian archipelago. Like pleasure junks on the China Coast, pleasure phinisis have evolved.

Prominent among them is the 51 metre Dunia Baru. She can sleep 14 guests in a master king-sized double with ensuite, and six other ensuite double cabins. Weekly rates are competitive, and all inclusive, so chartering her with family or friends is an economic way to see a spectrum of Asian locales, heightened by the experience of sailing in a genuine luxury phinisi built in these same waters.

Dunia Baru plies between Indonesia and Phuket-Myanmar, making the most of the opposite high-season monsoons, and she calls at many places in between. Some passages afford the opportunity for smaller groups, couples and individuals to sail with like-minded guests.

As a guideline, charters between Bali and Komodo are US$87,500 a week plus 10 per cent tax. If voyaging to further flung Raja Ampat and other destinations such as the Spice Islands, the rate is US$94,500 plus tax.

“The name means New World”, says owner Mark Robba, “and we love it that charter guests have a chance to experience the same. For us, the best parts of cruising Asia are the remote areas. Beaches with no people on, the virgin dive spots, the remote villages that provide a cultural experience like nowhere else in the world”.

Lounging areas both forward and aft provide inviting places for guests to gather and enjoy the food and beverages served by a 20-strong crew. Or to just laze and read a book. This is a yacht with plenty of space to fall into one’s own special rhythm.

An open galley with breakfast bar is a favourite spot for guests to come together and speak with the chef while he prepares meals to order. Outside, a table stretches almost full beam, inlaid with beautifully-backlit glass, which is a feature throughout the yacht.

While her interiors are relaxing, Dunia Baru’s toys cupboard encourages adventure and discovery. Equipped with two tenders, jet skis, kayaks, stand-up paddle boards, diving gear, banana boat and water skis, she offers many amenities to ensure guests enjoy their voyage.

Albatross PR, which handles both Dunia Baru and Lamima, advised recently that the 65 metre 14 guest Lamima has a special offer this year – a new, fully inclusive rate of US$18,000 per day, plus tax, for charters booked before 1 May, and taken in the year from then.

This amounts to a 28 percent reduction on her normal operating fees. It includes all food and beverages, unlimited diving and watersports, spa treatments, shore excursions, and guided dives via two onboard PADI dive masters and one instructor.

The ultra-luxury vessel is Indonesian flagged, which has benefits and is a kind of hybrid phinisi, having been designed in 2012 by the esteemed Marcelo Penna of Barcelona. He unobtrusively included refinements to enhance her intrinsic strength and stability, and decreed an impressive sail wardrobe, so that Lamima can claim to be a first-class sailing yacht.

Co-owner Dominique Gerardin, a former yacht captain, said it took three years to build Lamima at Aru, like Makassar in Sulawesi, and unusually for a phinisi she is certified by the Italian agency RINA, guaranteeing that she has been constructed to the highest standards of safety, stability, fire protection and pollution prevention.

“Looking right at home on Indonesia’s sapphire seas, and with the trade winds filling her sails, Lamima’s special reduced rate is an offer not to be missed”, concludes Albatross.

Although Lamina concentrates on Indonesia, including the Nusa Tenggara with its Komodo Island dragons and as far afield as West Papua province where the now ‘discovered’ dive site Raja Ampat is located, she does also voyage with the seasons to Thailand’s Andaman Sea and the Mergui Archipelago in Myanmar beyond.

Grading compared Lamina’s interior décor with “all the opulence of a superyacht”. The 19-strong crew has two masseuses in their ranks, yoga sessions are held on deck, and the varied cuisine using fresh local fruit and vegetables is said to be superb.

The vessel has a dedicated website, and bookings can be made through Nikko Karki of Indo Yachts, which offers full services.

For more information, visit Indo Yachts.

From: Yacht Style #38.

Save

World’s Rarest Hermès Birkin Bag Worth USD380,000 Was Auctioned By Christie’s

Hermes’ Birkin bags are one of the most highlight sought after luxury fashion items in the world. Hence, there’s no surprise that a diamond-encrusted crocodile-skin Hermes Birkin handbag with white gold details has broken the record for the world’s most expensive ever sold at auction, fetching nearly US$380,000 at a Hong Kong sale. The rare Himalaya Niloticus Crocodile Diamond Birkin 30 went to an unknown phone bidder Wednesday for HK$2.94 million after intense bidding, a spokeswoman for auction house Christie’s told AFP. The new record beat one set last year, also in Hong Kong, by an identical Hermes bag that sold for HK$2.32 million.

Only one or two Diamond Himalayas are created each year globally, making it one of the rarest production runs for handbags, according to Christie’s. “It actually has been rumoured that they will discontinue Himalayas altogether this year, which may be part of the reason that we’ve seen the increase in the value this season,” Matthew Rubinger, Christie’s international head of handbags and accessories division, told AFP.

Designer handbags are increasingly seen as investment opportunities and have become a craze for collectors, taking global auction houses by storm and scoring record prices.

The handmade bag—described by the London-based auctioneers as “the most desirable handbag in existence”—is encrusted with diamonds, while the buckle and trademark mini Hermes padlock are from 18 carat white gold.

The bag was made in 2014 and is from Hermes’ “Birkin” series named after actress and singer Jane Birkin, who was born in Britain and lives in France.

5 Floating Home Concepts That Are Straight Out of a Sci-Fi Movie

Photo: Dymitr Malcew

Coastal or seaside residences have a certain allure that allow you to enjoy a view that is worth every pretty penny. However, we have discovered something that offers much more than a scenic view of the ocean far out in the distance. Since 2015, architectural firms have teased us with the designs of floating homes that give a whole new meaning to “right on the water” and with this new venture, your dreams may just be a reality. The idea of floating residences has long been a concept explored by design firms. With the recent interest of these buoyant babies, we take a look at five of the most promising ventures in the pipelines!

1.BMT Asia Pacific (BMT) SeaScape

The first on our list is the SeaScape, which is a floating villa conceptualised by BMT Asia Pacific. Unlike your usual oblong shaped villas, the SeaScapes take on a triangular platform base provides you with the perfect opportunity to attach several of the 700-square-foot units together for a larger villa to suit your needs. By combining multiple units, you can look forward to sundecks and pools to lounge in, on top of a stunning underwater master bedroom. This state of the art modular design could allow owners to transform their villas into a variety of styles such as a floating bar with a submarine lounge.

For more information, do visit BMT.

2. Dubai’s Floating Seahorse Villas

One of the many unique designs to have garnered an immense amount of hype recently happens to be the Floating Seahorse Villas. A truly unique luxury experience, the Floating Seahorse is a three-story villa, with one submerged story. The first edition has been completely snapped up and it’s easy to see why. The underwater portion features a master bedroom and bathroom, with a spectacular coral garden right outside the walls. What’s better is an upcoming “Signature Edition” Villa designed for larger groups. With these $12 million dollar upgrades, you will be able to add your own personal touch to the villas. The new edition will be fully customizable to your personal style — bringing a whole new meaning to the term “signature”.

For more information, do visit The Heart of Europe.

3. The Floating House

: Photo: Dymitr Malcew

: Photo: Dymitr Malcew

Designed by Singapore based architect Dymitr Malcew, The Floating House is an imaginative project that is based on the idea of living on the water. This house is a picture perfect example of serenity for those who enjoy having nature right at their doorstep. With floor to ceiling glass walls, the house celebrates the feeling of freedom and openness, the main goal of the architect is to complement the houses’ surroundings. With nature being the underlying theme, most of the interior is made from wood. An engine can even be installed upon request to cater to the wanderlust of homeowners!

For more information, do visit Dymitr Malcew.

4. Unidentified Floating Object 2.0 (UFO)

: Photo: Jet Capsule

: Photo: Jet Capsule

This ultra-futuristic floating home is like something straight out of a sci-fi movie. The UFO 2.0 spans nearly 4,000 square feet and consists of three levels. The various levels include a living space, a kitchen and — you guessed it — an underwater bedroom. Made almost entirely out of fiberglass, this incredible villa was created by Italian design firm Jet Capsule, and is the second of its kind. The floating villa is equipped with two 80-hp electric engines, which are able to move the structure at a maximum speed of nine knots.

For more information, do visit Jet Capsule.

5. Amillarah Private Islands

What’s better than having a whole floating home to yourself? Why it’s having an entire floating island abode! With the Amillarah Private Islands, not only are these residences fully customizable, you can also choose the location of your home. Each villa comes with a private beach, natural greenery as well as a jetty. Designed with its owner’s absolute privacy in mind, the Amillarah Private Islands are truly a chance for you to create your own exclusive paradise.

Words by Teri Chong. From: Luxuo. For more information, visit Amillarah.

Save

Bang and Olufsen’s New BeoSound Shape Provides Amazing Sound and Spruces Up Plain Walls

Danish manufacturer Bang & Olufsen has unveiled the BeoSound Shape, a new wireless speaker system with a sleek minimalist design and a modular setup. Launched at the Salone de Mobile Milan, the new audio system is made up of a series of hexagonal tiles, arranged on a wall in a unique, customisable and modular design. The system can even help improve interior acoustics when not in use.

Each tile has a specific function, as a speaker, an amplifier, an acoustic damper or a connectivity hub. They can be pieced together in endless combinations of varying sizes and are available in several colors. What’s more, the arrangement of the tiles has a direct impact on the acoustics of the room. At the heart of the speakers is the BeoSound core, a connectivity hub that has the hardware for AirPlay, Chromecast, Spotify Connect, and Bluetooth 4. Although the speakers are largely focused on wireless connectivity, it also has wired inputs for Ethernet.

The system uses an algorithm, developed by Bang & Olufsen, to ensure an immersive, centered soundstage no matter where you are in the room. In other words, the lead singer stays in the center of the soundscape and the instruments join in from the sides, seemingly staying in their place even when you move around. This creates what Bang & Olufsen calls a “band on the wall,” giving listeners the impression of a band playing live in the room. B&O has also developed an online design tool to help audio fans pick a layout for their tiles, suggesting optimal placements for the best results.

The BeoSound Shape will be available from Bang & Olufsen stores from August 2017. Prices depend on configurations (size, fabrics, etc.), but the basic kit, including eight tiles (four speakers, two sound-absorbing acoustic dampeners, one amplifier and one housing for the BeoSound Core connectivity hub) will start at €4,000 (approx. $4,265).

For more information, do visit Bang & Olufsen. Check out the B&O BeoSound Shape in this video:

Save

Michelin Guide Hokkaido 2017 Names Two New 3-Star Restaurants

Photo credit: TripAdvisor

The land of seafood, sushi and scenery gains another gastronomical advantage. After a five-year hiatus, Michelin inspectors returned to the second largest island of Japan in search of new dining destinations worthy of being admitted into the exclusive starred club. The result? Two new three Michelin-starred restaurants from the island of Hokkaido.

Michelin published a one-off guide for the island in 2012. Overall, the 2017 edition of the guide features 22 new Michelin-starred restaurants. Amongst these include Hanakoji Sawada, which serves a seasonal Japanese menu. The restaurant was promoted from its two-star standing to three stars. The 36-seat restaurant is located in the city of Sapporo.

Sushi Miyakawa now also boasts a triple-starred ranking. Three Michelin stars denote “exceptional cuisine, worth a special journey,” while two stars represent “excellent cooking, worth a detour.” A single star denotes “a very good restaurant in its category. Other notable new entries include Tempura araki, which received two stars, and Koyon Yamahisa, which unlocked its first star.

The Hokkaido Michelin guide 2017 launches officially on May 19.

Universal Studios Hollywood Adds Evening Dazzle to Harry Potter Castle

Visitors of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios Hollywood will be offered a nocturnal experience this summer that will shine a new light on Hogwarts under the cloak of night. As night falls on Hogsmeade Village, visitors will be treated to a new special effects and light show that will be projected against Hogwarts Castle.

Set against a musical arrangement by composer to the stars John Williams—whose soundtrack credits include the Harry Potter movies, “Jaws,” “E.T.” “Star Wars” “Indiana Jones” —”The Nighttime Lights at Hogwarts Castle” will showcase the four houses of Hogwarts: Gryffindor, Ravenclaw, Hufflepuff and Slytherin. The new show will be projected multiple times a night, beginning from June 23.

The thrill ride “Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey,” which combines action sequences with a robotic ride system, was also upgraded from 3D to 4K-HD for a more hyper-realistic experience, at 120 frames per second.

The ride will take guests through the corridors of Hogwarts, Dumbledore’s office, the Gryffindor common room, and above the castle grounds.

Your New Luxury Property Purchase Now Comes With A Designer Interior

A living space overlooking a glimmering city skyline, a desirable location in the heart of a city, high-end amenities and privileges. These value-adding factors behind living in luxury residential developments can all have a huge impact on the saleability of a property, regardless of its geographical location. Increasingly, another amenity that is sought after by many international developers and that continues to lend desirable results for residential sales is a name of a noted architect or interior designer attached to a project, lending it an additional air of exclusivity and prestige. Developers of the latest crop of luxury residential properties increasingly seek to differentiate their developments by attracting clients with an allure of well-designed space that goes deeper than the bare bones of a residential structure, adding further integrity to already lucrative investments.

Building a Name

In demanding global property markets, where property appeal to a prospective buyer is key to landing a sale, developers turn to big name designers who will resonate with buyers. “Art, design and exquisite collectables are interlinked”, comments Charlie Walsh, Director, Sales, Lodha UK on the interconnectivity between a designer’s name and exclusive lifestyle. “Top fashion houses are increasingly partnering with five star hotels and hottest bars around the world to curate spaces. This has filtered down to residential, a trend which is likely to continue”.

Such is the case with properties like Lodha Fiorenza, Lodha Group’s luxury development in Mumbai, exclusively developed by Jade Jagger. In 2012, Lodha also partnered with Philippe Starck to design the residences of Lodha Evoq, a 63-storey tower in Mumbai’s New Cuffe Parade. For one of its latest projects, Lincoln Square – a new development in central London – Lodha UK collaborated with Patricia Urquiola, who put her signature stamp on many of the development’s amenities including the private club, library, dining room and billiards room.

Lodha UK handpicked Urquoila to seek the expertise of a world-class designer to create a range of distinctive living spaces that represented Urquoila’s signature style. Says Walsh, “When you visit the places that Urquiola has designed such as Il Sereno on Lake Como or the Mandarin Oriental in Barcelona, it is an incredible feeling. That is the effect we want to have on buyers at Lincoln Square, where Urquiola’s use of coloured glass, timber, marble and bronze metals has created something remarkable”.

Developers seeking to create buzz around their upcoming residential projects are benefitting from getting promotional clout from the names of famous designers. This is the strategy that was taken on by The Related Group, one of Florida’s most notable builders who signed on Karim Rashid as a designer for MyBrickell in Miami’s financial district. The Related made a deal to brand the building after Rashid’s name and, after the success of the project, applied the same strategy to other residential developments, including 690-unit Brickell Heights, with amenities designed by David Rockwell.

Expert Collaborations

There is unique value to having a residence crafted by a designer to position a residential project as a one-of-a-kind investment. Property developers are enlisting interior designers to maximise the usage and layout of residential spaces and help prospective buyers to envisage themselves in a unit as befitting of a buyer’s lifestyle.

While interiors and exteriors are often crafted by different parties, interior designers can help to create a harmony between the exterior architecture and interior spaces to ensure that a development is worth an investment.

This strategy paid off for The Riverwalk in Westminster, London— a duplex penthouse on the north bank of the River Thames by Ronson Capital Partners— that relied on several collaborations with noted design studios to create a series of distinctive apartments to set the development apart from other luxury developments and complement its riverside location. Lisa Ronson, Commercial Director, Ronson Capital Partners, worked with luxury designers Fiona Barratt and Bowler James Brindley, with Lisa Ronson Home to design the elegant show apartments and Spinocchia Freund with Lisa Ronson Home to design the penthouse.

Enthusiastic about collaborations, Ronson welcomes the creative spirit that comes with working with interior design studios. In Ronson’s words, “Collaborations are always a popular choice in luxury developments, as in addition to stunning locations and multiple amenities, unique interior design and finishes maximise the offering and ensure an irreplaceable development”.

Buying into the Bespoke

Andrew Murray, founder of Belgravia-based design house Morpheus London that worked on a number of international projects in Monte Carlo, London and Singapore, attests to the notion that interior designers are invaluable in bringing professional and practical skills to a development project, including furniture supply and installation, sourcing artwork and dressing the space exquisitely to showcase the property to its maximum potential. “The interior design scheme is one of the first things that any potential buyer will see when viewing a property and it is our job to create a beautiful and enticing space which in turn attracts buyers and creates sales desirability and a maximum return for the client”, says Murray.

The craftsmanship and exclusivity of owning a one-of-a-kind residence provide an enticing allure of a living experience that captures the ideals of comfort, attention to detail and elegance. A collaboration with a designer can ensure the highest levels of craftsmanship and attention to detail, elevating the property value and complementing other prized elements of a development for an all-round luxury package.

A discerning interior designer can offer solutions that are customised to a buyer’s lifestyle and feel unique, straddling tradition and trends and respecting the neighbourhood context. Buyers can appreciate residences that feel very personal and specific, like the duplexes at 155 E. 79th Street in New York, where developer Anbau Enterprises enlisted Andrew Sheinman, founder of Pembrooke & Ives, to design residential environments that put emphasis on high-quality materials and felt customised to the buyers.

For the interiors at Chelsea Island, Hadley Property Group worked with prominent practice Arney Fender Katsalidis, crafting interiors that showcased a modern take on traditional British craftsmanship to complement the development’s exclusive waterside destination at Chelsea Harbour. Lending an air of exclusivity, the partnership with a design firm was part of Hadley Property Group’s strategy to unveil to potential buyers a vision of what life can be life in an exclusive waterfront neighbourhood. James Taylor, Group Director of Sales and Marketing at Hadley Property Group explains, “Collaborating with a renowned interior designer ensures that the utmost levels of craftsmanship and attention to detail are achieved, which is key for boosting the value proposition of a property while setting a benchmark in terms of quality and craftsmanship”.

From: Palace #19.

Zagreb, Croatia Named Lonely Planet’s Best Destination in Europe for 2017

Travel experts at Lonely Planet have named Zagreb, Croatia the top destination in Europe for 2017, in a list that aims to highlight emerging, up-and-coming hotspots that are poised to become “the next traveller find.” While Croatia has become wildly popular as a travel destination in recent years, most visitors are headed to the country’s coastline in search of beaches and island getaways.

But Zagreb is also worthy of a stopover, editors say, with its Austro-Hungarian coffee squares, cafes, street art, Neo-Gothic architecture and an urban regeneration that has created a cosmopolitan and edgy capital. A new airport terminal is also expected to make air travel cheaper and easier to the city.

“Zagreb tops our list because it ticks all of these boxes,” said LP’s editorial director Tom Hall. “Croatia is one of Europe’s hottest destinations right now but many people head straight to the coast, meaning they miss out on visiting a city that has a dynamic cultural offering, a thriving food and drink scene.” After Zagreb, the travel guide spotlights Gotland, Sweden’s largest island and home to the medieval walled town of Visby, also a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Other notable destinations include Moldova, for its cliff-perched monasteries and wine cellars; Le Havre, France for celebrating its 500th anniversary this year; and Pafos, Cyprus, this year’s European Capital of Culture.

Here are the top 10 destinations in Europe for 2017, according to Lonely Planet:

1. Zagreb, Croatia
2. Gotland, Sweden
3. Galicia, Spain
4. Northern Montenegro
5. Leeds, UK
6. Alentejo, Portugal
7. Northern Germany
8. Moldova
9. Pafos, Cyprus
10. Le Havre, France

Save

These Hecate Verona Dog Manors With Smart Home Technology Are Next Level Luxury

A man’s best friend only deserves the very best! British company Hecate Verona honours your favourite pooches by creating the world’s first luxury dog manors. A twist on your usual doghouses, these manors are created for the comfort of your beloved pup. These exclusive products are now on sale in the USA and ships globally.

According to Alice Willimas, Creative Director of the firm, the product development was triggered by simple questions: Why wouldn’t a dog house be as elegant and beautiful as its owner’s? Why shouldn’t an architect design a house for the dog? What if it could be beautiful, stylish and also practical? What if it had miniature engravings, windows, doors etc all in proportion with the dog house? Why is it that during a time when a dog is considered to be a family member can’t a dog also have its own dog mansion equal to its owner’s, where he can lie comfortably when outdoors? “Our objective was to create a majestic and royal looking dog manor which seeks to complement the garden and its surrounding in which it stands.” Ms. Willimas added.

What makes Hecate Verona’s innovative product so delightful is the perfect blend of craftsmanship and technology. The development of these dog manors were led by craftsmen adept in luxury yacht making. The manors feature smart house technologies that acclimatise the house to the needs of different dog breeds. From heating, air conditioning, indoor and outdoor lighting, automated food and water systems, treat dispensers, sound systems and even television sets, this house has everything both pup and owner would want.

The manors are made with materials of exceptional quality. Hardwood floors made from beech, oak and larch line the house, alongside structures carved from marble and dolomite. The interior walls of the manor are water and moisture resistant, and so are the terrace and shelter which are scratch resistant. The manors are bespoke; with the design needs of each client personally assessed.

During the development period of this product, the company has run many tests on different breeds and consulted with expert veterinarians in order to create the optimal living space for your precious pets. As a result, the living space has been divided into a bedroom and living room, with the latter giving a good panoramic overview of the surroundings. Windows have been lowered accordingly to the dog’s height which gives the dog a clear view of the surroundings and its territory.

“Our customers and their dogs typically live indoors so we see our dog manor as an extra that gives a pet more comfort – it is dog’s own house that has all the comforts of an indoor living room, making the whole experience of staying outdoors more fun and enjoyable. This leads to the dog enjoying the outdoors even more and staying more active and that is highly recommended by veterinarians,“ Alice Willimas, creative director of Hecate Verona, explained.

Each manor takes on average 2-4 months to be completed. Prices start at $40,000 with fully equipped high end models costing up to $200,000. The Hecate Verona bespoke dog mansions sure are a new frontier in the pet industry. For more information, do visit Hecate.

Words by Teri Chong. From: Luxuo

Save

These are the Top 10 Favourite Destinations of Wealthy Travellers

When money is no obstacle, and the world is your pearl-studded oyster, wealthy travelers are more apt to jet off to Italy than any other destination. That’s according to the luxury travel agency network Virtuoso, which looked at the most popular destinations sought by their wealthiest clients in the US at member agencies around the world. For the list, experts looked at bookings made for this summer through their network which, so far, total more than $39.7 billion USD in transactions.

The list of the 10 most popular destinations is dominated by Europe, with the quartet of traditional favourites Italy, the UK, France and Spain topping the ranking.

Along with offering natural and cultural attractions—among the most important priorities for affluent globetrotters—the strength of the US dollar against the Euro and the British pound are making Europe a particularly appealing destination for 2017.

South Africa is also a favourite for travellers looking to strike off bucket-list dreams, notably safaris and wilderness retreats. This year, Canada has also become top of mind as the country celebrates its 150th anniversary with a slew of events planned coast to coast. Canada Day is July 1. Germany, Denmark and the Netherlands are also popular, particularly for ocean and river cruisers.

Here’s where wealthy American travellers are most likely to jet off to this summer, according to Virtuoso:

Italy
United Kingdom
France
Spain
South Africa
Germany
Ireland
Canada
Netherlands
Denmark

924 Bel Air Road in Los Angeles is the Most Expensive Home in America

To call 924 Bel Air Road a house seems inaccurate. Even describing it a mansion is somehow amiss. The colossal spec-home, which is currently on the market for USD 250 million floats on the hillside above Elizabeth Taylor’s former residence like an oversized yacht. The property is all blues and whites and greens with pools and terraces and a water feature that runs along the parameter. In the evening, it glows like a hilltop citadel.

Built by luxury developer Bruce Makowsky, who made his fortune in handbags and leather goods, it is the most expensive home ever listed in the United States and it joins a wave of American spec-homes being built to satisfy the whims of the super-rich. Last year, properties priced upwards of USD 100 million were listed in California, Florida, New York and Nevada. Recently, Nile Niami, an LA-based film producer-turned-developer announced he is building a mansion he plans to sell for USD 500 million.

As the spec-home trend gains momentum, developers continue to raise the stakes. 924 Bel Air Road come with 150 pieces of original artwork, around USD 30 million worth of classic cars, a dozen high-performance motorcycles and a deactivated helicopter.

“The house comes with a lot of great toys”, Mr. Makowsky grants as we begin our tour on the ground floor, passing a car gallery, a four-lane bowling alley, custom-made glass ping-pong and pool tables and a wall-mounted candy dispenser. Showpieces certainly abound. Also on this floor is a champagne pinball machine, a chrome-plated machine gun sculpture and diamond encrusted Fender guitar.

“There are five bars in the property”, Mr. Makowsky tells me as we round the corner and ascend to the next level, but I quickly lose count. There are wine and champagne cellars, televisions at every turn, including a giant outdoor hydraulic screen that rises up behind the infinity pool. If that’s not enough to entertain, there’s a 40-seat Dolby home theatre with surround sound that shakes my plush leather armchair.

Makowsky loves leather, marble, and polished steel. Occasionally he also likes wood, evidenced in a giant teak accent wall on the second floor. He also likes vintage cars, airplane parts, antique meat cutters, helicopters and boats. When it comes to furniture, he tends toward Italian design, though he also has a soft spot for Hermès and German hardware for the bathrooms.

What doesn’t he like? Imperfections. These are scarcely found across 38,000 sq. ft. of carefully curated living space. And if they appear, they don’t last long. When the wind sweeps tree pollen in through the retractable glass walls, Mr. Makowsky snatches up the tiny brown pods from the buffed marble floor before I can tread on them. When we pass the third floor lounge area, he notes a minute smudge on the blue Potrana Frau chairs like an eagle might spy the tail of a mouse in a mountain valley. To keep up appearances, the house comes with seven full time staff. They follow our tour, offering water, popcorn and candy, and I imagine, sweep up in the wake of our footsteps.

Those who toss around the phrase “attention to detail” casually haven’t met Mr. Makowsky. He supervised every last detail of the property down to the door handles and tapped into his wide-reaching network of luxury tastemakers to get the crème de la crème. After extensive negotiating he paid USD 250,000 for a large purple crystal he had his sights on, and had it carved into a sink for the powder room. When he saw a sculpture of a Leica camera he was keen on, he commissioned artist Yibai Liao to create another one and placed the oversized model, made from polished stainless steel at the bottom of the free-floating staircase.

Nothing is accidental here, and nothing is lacking, except perhaps a sense of organic comfort – the home isn’t exactly cozy. But then, that isn’t really the point. The property is meant to offer up every imaginable detail for its future magnate owners to have a good time. And according to Mr. Makowsky, they’ll be willing to pay for it.

“Until now, the ultra-luxury market was void of homes that even came close to matching the level of mega-yachts and private jets that billionaires spend millions of dollars on every year”, he says. “There are hundreds of new billionaires created each year and they are increasingly setting their sights on this coveted enclave of California for everything the state has to offer”.

Special Features

The home includes a massage studio and wellness spa, a Technogym fitness centre, 85-foot glass tile infinity swimming pool, 40-seat 4K Dolby Atmos Theater, a four-lane bowling alley, an auto gallery with cars valued at more than USD 30 million, seven full time staff, over 100 curated art installations, an outdoor hydraulic pop-up theater, two fully-stocked champagne/wine cellars, two commercial elevators and 270-degree views of Los Angeles.

Buyer Information:

Size: 38,0000 sq. ft.
Outdoors: 17,000 sq. ft.
Levels: 4
Bedrooms: 12
Bathrooms: 21
Kitchens: 3
Bars: 5 Price:
USD250,000,000

From: Palace #19.

Save

Resort Style Living is at Its Finest at Angsana Beachfront Residences by Bang Tao, Phuket

Resort-style living takes on a new dimension with Phuket’s latest luxury condominiums by the Banyan Tree Group. The Angsana Beachfront Residences are situated right on Bang Tao beach, within the world renown Laguna Phuket integrated resort on Phuket’s preferred west coast and comprises 30 exclusive units over five individual low-rise beachfront condominium buildings in a unique Thai contemporary style. All three-storey buildings contain only two apartments per floor, each equipped with a private pool at the fringes of a broad outdoor patio.

The development offers a selection of two to three-bedroom residences ranging from 2,303 square feet to 3,378 square feet with spacious ground floor garden units, as well as penthouse units with a private rooftop pool and entertaining area are also attractive options. One unique aspect of this project is the ability for owners to have their property managed by Angsana Laguna Phuket, through either an investment or lifestyle option. The investment initiative allows buyers to have their property operated full-time by the resort, whilst the lifestyle choice enables owners to reside in their property on a part or full-time basis and have their property exclusively rented out by the resort either short or long term.

With the ownership of a Beachfront Residence, residents will receive privileged access to the Sanctuary Club, a global network with more than 40 resorts and hotels and over 60 spas and 80 retail galleries; and membership to the championship Laguna Phuket Golf Club voted “Thailand’s Best” in the World Golf Awards. In addition to enjoying the range of facilities and infrastructure within Phuket’s largest resort, the area also boasts modern shopping centres and art galleries, international schools and world-class hospitals. Owners may enjoy all the lifestyle benefits and activities living by the Andaman Sea as well as the highlight of having a white sandy beach on their doorstep.

PRICE ON APPLICATION

From: Palace #19

Cave Diving in Costa Cálida Will Get Your Adrenaline Pumping

If you’re the type to go for adrenaline pumping activities such as skydiving, this is perfect for you. The Costa Cálida, in the Region of Murcia, offers a rich variety of diving experiences for the beginner or skilled diver. With 250 kilometres of sparkling turquoise waters, this location is blessed with an abundance of marine life and flora as well as magnificent shipwrecks that make it a prime location for diving. Consisting of the Cabo de Palos-Islas Hormigas-Isla Grosa, Cartagena-La Azohía- Cabo Tiñoso, Mazarrón, and Águilas, shallow and deep waters are aplenty.

In Cabo de Palos, Islas Hormigas and Isla Grosa — in the north-west of the region — one finds some of the best diving opportunities in the Mediterranean: spectacular reefs brimming with fish, overhangs and many seemingly unexplored caverns. Beyond the lagoon lies an ancient volcanic chain, forming islands and undersea mountains. At the Baio de la Campana, come face to face with marine life as well as long forgotten marine vessels, both Roman and Phoenician. At one site, a Phoenician trading ship nestles beneath a Roman vessel, while both perch atop another Phoenician ship. Used as a site for naval target practice through the years, a large collection of wrecks have been generated, making the site prime for exploration.

On the other hand, Cartagena is a melting pot of treasures. Protected it is from the easterly wind; it offers the possibility of discovering archaeological remains in the sand. Some of these treasures have been taken away for safekeeping and preservation, and are displayed in the ARQUA museum. Yet, the main attraction is undoubtedly the many wrecks that provide a playground for divers.

Further up lies La Azohía, known for its cave diving, as well as Cabo Tiñoso, a marine reserve. The diving zone around Mazarrón mainly occupies 10 miles around the port, where there are depths of up to 60m, with deserted coves and underwater cave.

In order to step up with ocean preservation efforts, many of the wrecks in the area have been sunk deliberately to create artificial reefs. Home to a myriad of sealife such as moray eels, blue-spotted rays and swordfish, the wrecks almost seem like a portal to another world. For beginners, immerse yourself in a safe diving environment in the shallow waters of Mar Menor, one of Europe’s largest saltwater lagoons.

A four-night, self-catering break in Cartagena in July costs from just £193.61 per person, based on two sharing a twin or double room, at the three-star Los Habaneros hotel, in the city centre, opposite the tourist office and the ancient city walls.

Access to Costa Cálida, Región de Murcia, is simple as it is served by Murcia-San Javier airport all year round, while Alicante airport is also nearby. Both airports are served by numerous other airlines flying from a wide variety of UK and Irish airports and flights in June cost from just £26 one way.

Words by Teri Chong. For more information, do visit Murica.

From: Luxuo.

Save

Interview: Boat Designer Vittorio Garroni of the Beneteau Group

Designers Vittorio Garroni and his son Camillo

After visiting Southampton University, Garroni decided that Genoa, with its rich maritime history, should also be a centre of excellence for the boating industry. He went on to become one of the founding fathers for the first Italian School for Pleasure Craft Design, set up in conjunction with the Faculties of Engineering and Architecture at Genoa University. In 2000, the School of La Spezia offered its first degree-course in Naval Architecture for Pleasure Craft, and this was expanded to become a Masters programme in 2005.

Vittorio believes that you need good knowledge of the past in order to be able to forecast future trends. “In the field of architectural design you need to look carefully back to the past, and analyse the evolution of trends over a sufficiently long period. Only then will you confidently be able to draw your line to the future. This is what I try to make clear to my naval architecture students when I feel their anxiety to perform a good design without previously having spent a sufficient time studying the history of design.”

Besides teaching, it was Vittorio’s love affair with boating and France that led him to work with the Jeanneau shipyard. The collaboration between Vittorio Garroni and Jeanneau started with the Prestige 41 in the 1980s, and continues to this day. Since 1988, he has been the principal designer for Jeanneau, part of the Bénéteau Group, for sail and motor boats from 5m to 20m.

Besides the Prestige line of motor yachts, Vittorio was also responsible for some of the best sellers in the history of Jeanneau, such the Cap Camarat 755 (of which some 1,000 boats were sold), the Merry Fisher, the Runabout, and all the current models in the NC and Leader lines. Garroni believes it is this partnership of Italian design with French ship building that has resulted in a line of yachts that are stylish as well as seaworthy.

Garroni has produced no less than 70 different models for Prestige since he started designing for them 30 years ago, and he says that, “customer satisfaction is the primary goal. We are always seeking to find ways of delivering more to boat owners, and this puts us ahead of our competitors.” Some of the most popular boats over the years have included the Prestige 500, 620, 750 and more recently, the Prestige 680. Garroni’s more recent designs have featured large expanses of glazing, which draws natural light into the main deck and afford guests 360-degree views.

The Jeanneau 57

Garroni Design was founded in 1971, and today Vittorio and his son Camillo continue to run the family business. “We handle numerous design projects for businesses in various industries including the marine, automobile, real estate, and even the industrial sector,” says Vittorio. “Essentially we are an Italian design team, which is composed of designers, architects, engineers, and consultants. It is a multinational team with associates from Europe to the Middle and Far East, but our cultural basis always remains typically Italian. The key to this is a shared appreciation of the Renaissance heritage; our five themes are Style, Refinement, Culture, Environment and Technology.”

“Working for a production craft yard demands a very high standard of skill and versatility,” explains Vittorio. “It is not just about the creative input. The team also needs to take into consideration the production process, with each new model that is designed.” The work doesn’t stop at the waterline. It also involves 3D modelling, engineering, and optimising the assembly of every single component of the boat. The studio’s designs, however, all begin life in the traditional way: as pencil strokes on a blank sheet of paper.

But Vittorio’s skills are not restricted to pleasure craft. 25 years ago he was invited by Mitsubishi Shipyards and NYK Line to participate in the Crystal Harmony project. “She was to be the first large Japanese built and owned cruise liner, conceived for international operations. She established new parameters for luxury and comfort, and is still now considered a reference model in the industry. I designed more than half of the passenger accommodations, and all the staterooms were conceived in my office.” Right now the company is working on two cruise ships, one at 100m and the other 300m, for a new Chinese company looking to test the domestic cruise market, and both will feature eco-technologies. The studio also designs bespoke superyachts and one of their recent projects, Margot, a 45m sailing motor yacht won the Interior Design category of the 2016 International Yacht & Aviation Awards.

Garroni says that design trends are influenced by the market that is being targeted, the social position of the customers, and their cultural roots. Generally speaking, European, American and Japanese cultures move from simplicity (minimalism) towards a more “structured peaceful refinement.” The Arabs and Chinese, who never met with minimalism, remain with locally inspired decorative trends. His approach is to respect and appreciate cultural diversity.

“I have spent 40 years sharing my life between university teaching in Europe, and working in the world, mainly in the Far East. It keeps me young! Now my son and his studio partners are experiencing the same, and it is a wonderful life!”

Last year, Garroni was named “Designer of the Year” at the 2016 World Yacht Trophy Awards at the Cannes Yachting Festival. The Award specifically recognised Garroni’s Prestige Yachts line, of which there were 13 models on display ranging from 42 ft to 75 ft.

Sailing, however, remains Garroni’s first love! Vittorio Garroni has a particular soft spot for the Sun Odyssey 54 DS, which led a revolution in the early 2000s. It was an enormous success, and over 365 units have been produced. “I had one, and she was called Bambouk. She was my great love. It was with regret that I had to separate from her, and I passed her on to a friend, who has since crossed the Atlantic with her, twice, and who continues to pamper her like a baby.”

Retiring is not on Garroni’s agenda, but he now leaves the day-to- day office duties to his son. “I will continue on with my exciting work while I go sailing with my wife in the wonderful Mediterranean Sea. The ‘new office environment’ will give me a new lease of energy, but these days I do need to factor in a bit more relaxation time. The best place for that is on the water, accompanied by my wife and our dogs… and some pasta, pizza and vino rosso!”

Words by Suzy Rayment.

From: Yacht Style #37.

Save

National Gallery Singapore Presents ‘Yayoi Kusama: Life is the Heart of a Rainbow’ Exhibition

No stranger to the vibrant and quirky world of art, it’s only fitting that Yayoi Kusama’s upcoming exhibition at the National Gallery Singapore is entitled ‘Yayoi Kusama: Life is the Heart of a Rainbow’. The exhibition of one of the world’s most influential artists in the 21^st century, this retrospective is the first to see a congregation of Kusama’s works in Southeast Asia. Opening from June 9 to September 3, the exhibition invites audiences into the multi-dimension world of Kusama’s creative vision.

A champion of the Avant-Garde, Kusama is lauded for her signature polka-dotted artworks —especially on pumpkin motifs — as well as her breathtaking Infinity Room installations. Having worked with designers such as Marc Jacobs and luxury brand Louis Vuitton, Kusama’s works continuously inspire other art forms. The exhibition will feature over 120 of her works, which include interactive spaces, installations, sculptures and paintings. Amongst these are new pieces that have never been exhibited prior. Leading up to ‘Yayoi Kusama: Life is the Heart of a Rainbow’, one of her interactive installations ‘The Obliteration Room’ has been installed in the National Gallery Singapore as part of the inagural Children’s Biennale.

Yayoi Kusama. Infinity Mirrored Room – Gleaming Lights of the Souls. 2008. Mirrors, wooden panels, LED lights, metal, acrylic panels. 287.4 x 415 × 415 cm. ©YAYOI KUSAMA. Courtesy of Ota Fine Arts, Tokyo/Singapore, Victoria Miro Gallery, London.

The main exhibition will take place in the Gallery’s Singtel Special Exhibition Gallery. An exploration of the influence of international artists such as Kusama, the exhibition will highlight how her works were able to reach across geographical boundaries to touch the lives of people all over the world. It will also look into the personal challenges Kusama faced, and how she overcame them to impact the art world.

Other than the main retrospective, the exhibition will extend across to workshops and programmes for all ages. These include a Curatorial Rountable for a discussion on the impact and influence on Yayaoi Kusama’s works. If you are up for creating your very own Yayoi Kusama inspired piece, sign up for Sunday Studio: Marbled Patterns. These marbling workshops are available at the Keppel Centre for Art Education at various timeslots.

A collaboration between the National Gallery Singapore and Queensland Art Gallery, Gallery of Modern Art, ‘Yayoi Kusama: Life is the Heart of a Rainbow’ will take place from June 9 to September 3. Opening hours are from 10am-7pm from Sundays to Thursdays and 10am-10pm from Fridays to Saturdays. Prices are $15 for Singaporeans and Permanent Residents and $25 for foreigners. Children enter free.

Words by Teri Chong. For more information, do visit the National Gallery Singapore.

From: Luxuo.

Save

Christie’s New York Auctions Jackie Kennedy Onassis Cartier Tank Watch

22nd December 1969: Jackie Onassis (1929 – 1994), wife of Greek ship-owner Aristotle Onassis and widow of US president John F Kennedy. (Photo by David Cairns/Express/Getty Images)

The Kennedys are possibly the closest thing that Americans can call royalty. Having left an undeniable mark in the world of politics, at least one of their members cemented her role as a style star. As one of the most famous and often admired women anything that was once owned by this Kennedy family member is bound to illicit the attention of many. On June 21, Chrisite’s will auction off the Jackie Kennedy-Onassis Cartier Tank watch that was once worn by America’s most revered First Ladies of all time. The timepiece will be a part of the auction house’s Rare Watches and American Icons New York sale.

Jackie Kennedy Onassis’s timelessness is evident in her classic Cartier Tank, having been gifted to her by her brother-in-law Prince Stanislaw “Stas” Radziwill in 1963. The timepiece is a design first created 100 years ago by Louis Cartier, and is engraved with the words “Stas to Jackie 23 Feb. 63 2:05 am to 9:35 pm.” The time refers to the start and stop times of the famous 50-Mile Hike in Palm Beach in 1963. Despite the dial having aged and the watch case appearing softer after time, the yellow gold Tank highlights the frequency at which Onassis wore the watch. The watch has been photographed on Onassis’s wrist an abundance of times while she was alive.

The watch will be auctioned alongside an original painting made by the former First Lady as a gift to her brother-in-law in 1963. Likewise, the painting celebrates the hike as well, mirroring the words on the watch with “February 23, 1963 2:05 am to 9:35 pm / Jackie to Stas with love and admiration”. Both the watch and the painting are the newest artefacts to surface from the Kennedy Presidency in recent years.

John Reardon, International Head of Christie’s Watches comments, “The Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Cartier Tank is a watch full of emotion, love and history. Together with Jackie’s painting, these two objects capture the spirit of another era, a time where friendship and the “can-do” optimism of the generation seemed to make anything possible. In this spirit, the consignor has offered to donate a portion of the proceeds to the National Endowment for the Arts. Christie’s Watches proudly offers this truly iconic timepiece and painting on June 21 in our New York Rockefeller Center Saleroom.”

While the estimate for the watch is 60,000—120,000 dollars, it seems likely that it will go for a much higher price.

For more information not he Rare Watches and American Icons event, visit Christie’s.