Posts Tagged ‘ Luxury ’
Famous fashion photographer Terry Richardson has shot a new advertising campaign for the Italian luxury brand founded by Valentino Garavani. Often controversial photographer Terry Richardson has flexed his fashion muscles with some new (semi) self-portraits for Valentino.
Girard-Perregaux is introducing a very limited edition version of its 1966 Chronograph meant to recall the doctor’s watches of the early twentieth century. Available exclusively from the Dubail boutique in Paris, it features a 40mm case, and automatic caliber movement, and face details like the bold orange/red circle, typeface, and pulsometer scale that set it apart from the company’s other 1966 chronographs.
Following the first look at the automobile and ahead of the official unveiling at the Shanghai Motor Show, Mercedes-Benz has released a detailed video look of the upcoming GLA Concept. A premium class compact crossover that “combines its sporting spirit with the all-round qualities of a tough, leisure-time companion,” the GLA Concept takes inspiration from both the A-Class hatchback and CLA-Class sedan and is expected to feature a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine (or the choice of a diesel equivalent), capable of around 300 hp, along with either a seven-speed automatic or six-speed manual transmission and luxurious details throughout.
British luxury designer Stuart Hughes has created a $15 million, solid-gold bodied, diamond-encrusted iPhone 5. The phone, which underneath its special shell, is no different from any iPhone in terms of hardware components. Called the Black Diamond because it features a 24-ct black diamond where the home key should be. It also has a solid gold chassis. It is decorated with 600 flawless white diamonds set in gold on the back panel, while the Apple logo, now in solid gold takes on a three-dimensional quality and has also been enhanced by the addition of a further 53 diamonds. One other notable difference is the use of sapphire glass rather than the standard Gorilla Glass to cover the iPhone’s display. Sapphire glass is used to create body armor and only a diamond is stronger or more resistant.
French designer and creative director of luxury label Saint Laurent, Hedi Slimane has designed stage gear for the return of the epic electronic musical duo Daft Punk. Set to hit stores at the end of May, Daft Punk’s upcoming album “Random Access Memories” is one of this year’s most eagerly anticipated releases. In the black and white visuals, shot in Los Angeles, the band (made up of Guy-Manuel de Homem-Christo and Thomas Bangalter) are dressed in stage wear by Hedi Slimane for Saint Laurent, including a black glitter jacket, ‘le smoking’. The designer’s Rock Diary project has also seen Slimane create a visual record of his relationships with his favorite musicians and bands.
Cape Town-based architects SAOTA completed this architectural gem. Head Road 1815 was designed for a young couple, wanting a dynamic and striking home, primarily for themselves, with guest accommodation separated from their own living areas. The luxury property can be found in Fresnaye, Cape Town, South Africa. The luxury Cape Town property views towards the north and west over Fresnaye as well as at the rear of the site. The site falls very steeply and due to the high elevation of the road and the restrictions on the building form, the house is raised above the property on high columns. The house includes three-storeys accommodating three en-suite guest rooms on the ground floor, with a plant area and a staff flatlet at the rear. The first floor is the main living level, with a large living room and dining room opening to a covered and uncovered pool terrace. The kitchen is positioned to enjoy views through the glass roof towards Lion’s Head. The entrance hall is accessed by gentle steps from Head Road preceded by a glass-roofed external lobby space. The second floor accommodates the master bedroom, dressing room and a light-filled en-suite with views over the pool below.
Check out the 30 Years Anniversary – Special Edition New model GA-300. 3,000 exclusive watches were made with engraved number and Maison Martin Margiela logo across the back and will be sold worldwide. It has a removable mirrored silver leather wristband, New matt-shiny silver casing and bracelet, transparent liquid crystal skeleton, Shock resistant, and 200m water resistant. It can also be used as a stopwatch, alarm, has a world time function, and Super illuminator LED.
Karl Lagerfeld opened his first store in Paris. Known for his work at Chanel, it’s for his own brand Karl that the designer, adopted by french culture created this store in Saint Germain Des Près. The hip neighborhood has now his very own place to shop for some premium fashion.
Someone might be disappointed that the engine power to the XKR-S has not changed. But the body has changed – it added carbon lollipops, splitter under the front bumper, deflectors around the fenders and rear delivers large wing. Maximum speed remains limited to 300 km/h. The acceleration takes it from 0 to 96 km/h in 3.9 seconds. Power transfer to the road to remain in charge and ZF six-speed automatic electronically controlled limited slip active differential. Another novelty is carbon-ceramic brakes, used by Jaguar for the first time. The front wheels have a diameter of 398 mm, rear 380 mm – thanks to them reduced unsprung masses by 21 kg. Jaguar offered only 25 pieces (five in Canada and rest in USA).
The second generation luxury sedan based on Bentley Continental is imminent. Bentley Continental Flying Spur appeared in 2005 as a response to the need for a smaller, more modern luxury sedan, the brand that would make sure increase in sales and a wider clientele. As the name (and design) told, it was a sedan, modeled on the Continental GT coupe. The public response was lukewarm. However, those for whom the vehicle was designed, i.e. rich customers who do not spend time on the internet discussions, obviously liked, because the brand is doing well and the Flying Spur is preparing a successor. The fact is that the promo video shows that the car will have a new column shaped body and the line of the side windows and the bow can expect similar changes which accompanied the alternation of generations in the Continental GT. Flying Spur will be powered by a 6.0L W12 capable of producing 616 hp, 590 lb-ft of torque, taking it to from zero to 60 mph in 4.3 seconds. The inside amenities and modern gadgetry will be as always Bentley delivers. But the highlights for the 2014 Flying Spur we’ve received are built-in hotspot, two 10” rear screens with 64Gigs of storage and 1100 watt Naim sound system. Expect to see it on roads in coming summer.
Continental GT coupe
Take a look at the McLaren P1, the next generation ultimate supercar from British sports car manufacturer McLaren Automotive. Designed with one aim in mind, to simply be the best driver’s car in the world, on road and track, the McLaren P1 is one of the decade’s most highly anticipated cars. Inspired by Formula 1 engineering, it will offer exceptional aerodynamics, amazing performance and bespoke design for every owner. McLaren Automotive Regional Director for the Middle East & Africa, Mark Harrison said: “After a successful launch in Bahrain, we are very excited to be bringing the McLaren P1 to the United Arab Emirates, where our retail partner, Al Habtoor Motors, has confirmed huge interest in this unique car. This year marks our 50th year anniversary, so it is apt that we are gearing up to launch a car that we feel will redefine the parameters for performance, on both circuit and road. This is why we have released these unique and stunning images, taken at the BIC, a location absolutely fitting for this supercar. ”
Australian interior design practice G.A.B.B.E have completed the renovation of the Brighton Escape project. The expansive, serene and textured luxury family home can be found in Australia. According to the interior designers: “A contemporary design with resounding vibrations to sooth the urban family. Like a seashell carrying the sound of the ocean, or a mirror reflecting sunlight, this space was specifically fashioned to capture and exude the warmth of the environment which surrounds it.”
The space was treated from its genesis, with the same respect for design as a museum. Carving of ceiling, walls and floor not only creates sculptural partitions throughout the residence, but with the spirit of a rock pool, provides channels to flow through and delineates ample space in which to dwell together. The space also lends opportunity for personalisation to the clients aesthetics and lifestyle through decorative items and furnishings. The result is a harmonious sanctuary that stands as a finished work of art on its own, and is yet constantly evolving with its inhabitants.
Volkswagen’s new hybrid car looks like one super machine from sci-fi movies. The XL1 is the most unique car in the current age of world. It is hand-built and optimized to achieve maximum from aerodynamic shell and lower gravity. The XL1 plug-in hybrid system gives a remarkable mileage of 100km in just 0.9 liter of fuel. XL1 uses a 47hp, two-cylinder engine and a 20 kW (27 hp) electric motor powered by a lithium-ion battery. Together the energy takes it from 0-62mph in 12.7 seconds and to the top speed of nearly 100 mph.
Vertu Ti is first Android smartphone by Vertu. The elegance in smartphone is completely added by human in England. The care feature titanium accompanied by beautiful leather work. Technical specs are 3.7-inch sapphire screen, 64GBs internal memory and 8MP cam. Moreover the Bang and Olufsen also has poured their efforts in acoustics. In few words, Vertu Ti is an executive level smartphone.
This garden has a mini kitchen area, a sauna, a fire place, a couch, and an amazing pool. Living where there is always sun, you could almost live in this back yard.
The boat boasts five Mercury Racing Verado 350SCi engines, all together generating 1750hp, enough to put it on the surface at the speed of 125 km/h. The thing that has put to alongside Mercedes-Benz G63 AMG SUV is the capacity to meet all sorts of water conditions. The Cigarette Huntress 42 doesn’t compromise at agility, speed and quick response. Apart from performance the boat has all the luxury on-deck and in-cabin amenities.
Johannesburg-based architectural practice Nico van der Meulen Architects have completed the House Tati project, a contemporary five-storey home that was finished in 2011, and can be found in Bassonia, Johannesburg, South Africa. The luxury South African property was redesigned and ingeniously transformed into a contemporary home. The building is located on a very steep and narrow site with 180° views to the east, which allowed the architectural design to take advantage of the spectacular views, but acted as a challenge when the architects wanted to add habitable space. The contemporary makeover was given to the entire building: from the street to the east façade one can enjoy the modern feel thanks to the use of concrete, steel and glass.
Sun control became key element of the design and the main architectural feature, since the building is mostly facing east. The northern and western façades are screened by the use of vertical louvres to allow sun control and degrees of privacy from adjacent properties. Northern sunlight enters the interiors through new double-volume glazing in the main staircase shaft, while pipe pendant lights from renowned designer Tom Dixon add a touch of luxury and visually connect the volume with the staircase below. The entertainment area and the children rooms are situated one floor lower, at the 3rd level. Here there is a private TV home theatre, a covered terrace with the pool deck, and the main suite on a mezzanine level. Finally, on the ground floor one finds a gym, home spa, hobby room and the squash court as well as a wine cellar and tasting room. The architectural style is complemented by the contemporary interior design, which was developed taking into account the ambience of a city pad with the main focus turned to the views.
C63 AMG Edition 507 is the new family member of Mercedes-Benz‘s C-class. This model runs using 6.2 liter V8 with 507hp and 450 lb-ft of torque. Together with aerodynamically enhanced design the C63 is capable of reaching from 0-60 in 4.1 seconds and hits to the top speed of 174mph. Furthermore it houses an upgraded braking system with compound brake discs. Six-piston calipers are fitted up front and four-piston clampers on the back. The C63 also gets exclusive 19-inch lightweight forged rims. The 2014 Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Edition 507 will hit the ramp at 2013 Geneva Motor Show this March before going out to market.
Hopen Place has been designed by Los Angeles-based design studio Whipple Russell Architects. The contemporary property can be found in the Hollywood Hills of California, USA. The contemporary Californian property comes with clean masculine lines and playfulness that has often been associated with the Friends character. The luxury Californian property boasts a dazzling blue infinity pool, you can even see the lights from Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip. There is also below-ground movie theater. Images courtesy of Whipple Russell Architects.
Aston Martin has released their updated version of Aston Martin Rapide S. This sleek, sporty four-door speedster features updated styling and a new heartbeat under the hood, namely the Rapide Gen 4 AM11 engine. This 550hp engine will push the Rapide S to 60mph in under five seconds as it approaches its top speed of 190 mph. As luxurious as it is thrilling, the new car now boasts a host of new luxury- or sports-orientated options, allowing buyers to more precisely tailor the car to their specific style.
Grosvenor House Apartments are the latest luxury ‘hotel concept’ on Park Lane, London, offering ‘hotel residences’ that combine the best of five star hotel service with the privacy and discretion of having one’s own Mayfair property. Managed by Jumeirah Living, the 131 serviced residences range from studios to five-bedroom penthouses and offer personalised touches for effortless living. Whether for short, mid-term or extended stays, the luxury London apartments feature cutting-edge technology, sumptuous finishes and contemporary design. Combining the services of a luxury five-star Jumeirah hotel with the discretion and privacy of an exclusive Mayfair residence, the uber-luxe apartments are the only ‘hotel residence’ of their kind. Steeped in history and grandeur, the building stands on the site of the former home of the Dukes of Westminster. Today, behind an iconic 1920s Lutyens façade, Grosvenor House Apartments offer 131 ‘residences’ ranging in size from a studio to 5-bed penthouse which open onto a seven-storey vaulted Atrium with a striking and contemporary chandelier: a stunning setting for a romantic break.
Rolls-Royce Motor Cars published last Tuesday the first official image of its new model Wraith, which will be presented at the Geneva Motor Show in March 2013. The BMW-owned luxury car company is being typically vague about what potential owners can expect from the new vehicle, other than that it will do justice to the name Wraith, a powerful V6 Rolls-Royce developed in 1938. Of the new car, Torsten Müller-Ötvös, CEO Rolls-Royce Motor Cars said:
Expect the boldest design, the most dramatic performance and the most powerful Rolls-Royce that has ever played host to the famous Spirit of Ecstasy figurine.
This is a design exercise that pays homage to Mercedes-Benz’s racing history. The streamlined body is supposed to evoke airplanes, speed and movement. Designer Peter Vardai’s goal was to create a plan that reinforces the emotions toward Mercedes and refers the the brand’s tradition and future. His concept consisted of the feeling for speed and freedom. He wanted to represent the speed and motion in on subject by basing this project on an airplane’s dinamic and streamlined shape [while having a Tron like future feel to it]. The black and silver are strongly connected to the branding, while the sporty shape refers to the Mercede’s success in auto racing.
In the era of smartphones and digital clocks everywhere, Becomb is creating something more, something new, something quite innovative, by creating the first watch, that is not one. No clocks here, it’s all about style. Available in Gold Plated (38mm) & made out of stainless steel, the Becomb watch will probably make you late to your next appointment. In 2013, having an accessory like this, is probably a way of telling yourself, that good things must be lived, no matter the time, no matter the length.
A limited release of Swiss made Tsovet SVT-AX87 wrist watch is available to offer highly intrinsic features. Gun metal bezel color, water resistant up-to 100meters underwater, custom touch, luminous and gold markers, dial available in silver BDL/ non-magnetic and matte finish, along with all those features the watch comes in a custom designed wooden display box.
