Luxury Dreaming

Superb French Château for Sale at $35 Million

2011-07-03T01:34:00.000-07:00

Christie’s International Real Estate is selling a gorgeous $35 million 136-acre property in Provence, France. It is one of the finest estates in the country, with a 17^th century residence, called Château de Sannes. Oozing luxury and sophistication, the mansion affords sweeping views of the Luberon mountains. The approximately 55 hectares that surround the house are sprinkled with old Cedar of Lebanon and cypress trees. Also part of the property are wheat and lavender fields, olive groves, a truffle plantation, a lot of woodland some 80 acres of vineyards.

There is a long private driveway that leads to the property, guarded by cherry trees and blue irises. When you reach the imposing château, a fascinating world of luxury and style opens before you. Period stone fireplaces, a beautiful stone staircase adorned with gypseries, original stone and tile flooring, a large indoor pool, a roof terrace, all these and more are what give the mansion its unique charm.

Surrounding it there are superb Italianate gardens with fountains and pools, giving even more grace and elegance to the property. The estate also consists of thoroughly renovated original buildings, like the 18^th century farmhouse with its own pool and six bedrooms, two staff cottages, a guest house, a guardian’s house, a restored and perfectly functional 18^th century windmill, a private chapel, a dovecote and ample garage space for cars and agricultural equipment too. Now you see why the steep price?

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Bachelor Apartment in Sao Paolo

2011-07-02T09:44:00.000-07:00

This modern apartment in Sao Paulo, Brazil was designed by Carol Leaes for an owner whose requirements were quite simple: he wanted one bedroom, a living area with open kitchen and some comfortable spaces where to “enjoy the simple pleasures of life”. As a reference, the owner mentioned Philippe Starck’s Faena Hotel in Buenos Aires.

To complete this project, Leaes had to work for approximately a year and a half, as only the search for the perfect property lasted four months. The designer had envisioned something great for her client and she had to make sure the apartment would offer a proper layout for the plan. She and her client finally decided to buy this particular apartment for two reasons: it had a free floor plan and it boasted unobstructed views of the only green space around Paulista Ave, the Trianon park. We love the final results!

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St. Barths Residence in the Caribbean

2011-07-02T09:36:00.000-07:00

St. Barths Residence is a gorgeous modern dwelling by Barnes Coy Architects, located on the St. Barthélemy Island in the Caribbean. It offers beautiful views to the South, West and North, including sweeping sunset and sunrise spectacles. Floor-to-ceiling sliding glass panels ensure a seamless transition from inside to the lovely outdoor living areas and the large infinity pool. What we love the most about this home is the fact that its every bedroom opens to an outdoor shower and a private walled terrace. Isn’t that just perfect?

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Porsche Design Indicator Watch in Dubai Mall

2011-07-02T08:20:00.000-07:00

Swiss watch manufacturer Eterna and Porsche Design have created this limited edition timepiece, called Porsche Design Indicator Watch. Priced at $270,000, the watch flaunts Titanium, rose gold and natural rubber accents. It features a second timer, a stopwatch and a special dial that indicates the power status of the timepiece, by shifting colors from green to red.

Only 50 such watches were made and of them, just 11 come in this design and with this price. The Indicator is powered by the natural movement of your wrist while you wear it, but you can also manually wind it when power is to low. The piece is available at the Porsche Design store in Dubai Mall, where it arrived six months ago. Dubai Mall placed the order for two Indicators in 2008, but they were only delivered in 2009 and 2011 respectively.

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Bruce Wayne’s New Ride

2011-07-02T08:14:00.000-07:00

The next Batman movie will flaunt a new super ride as Bruce Wayne’s daytime vehicle. Because Lamborghini is no longer producing the awesome Murciélago (the vehicle that Wayne drove in “Batman: The Dark Knight”), the hero will need something fresh and equally appealing for his new adventures. The solution is simple: a stunning Lamborghini Aventador. You can see below a few pictures of the gorgeous vehicle that will star in “Batman: The Dark Knight Rises”.

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Swarovski Blinged Golf Ball Markers

2011-07-02T08:05:00.000-07:00

For those who love the game, just the title itself should be sufficient explanation. But for those who dont , I would prefer you read up on Golf on Wikipedia and then return to complete this article.

Given that the game is played between competing teams or players, it becomes important to mark the position from where you may continue in case your ball is in the way of an opponent’s putting line. Sometimes it is important to do so simply because the ball has become dirty thanks to your insufficient golfing skills. However all the frustration of being unable to get the hole in one simply disappears once you take out one of these blinged ball markers.

Specially created for avid golfers who also love bling, these personalised markers are blinged with the initials / alphabets of the golfer. Available from Amazon for $9.90 onwards, simply hunt for your favorite alphabet and pray that you are lucky enough to find it in stock.

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BMW 6-Series Individual & M-Package revealed

2011-07-02T06:10:00.000-07:00

The BMW 6 Series range: Breaking new ground in the segment - the world's sportiest six-cylinder diesel engine and BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive.

The market launch of the new BMW 6 Series Coupé in autumn 2011 will be accompanied by the arrival of additional engine variants for the new BMW 6 Series Convertible. Making its debut in the two models is the world's sportiest six-cylinder diesel engine, a 3.0-litre unit with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology and output of 230 kW/313 hp. For the first time, the BMW 6 Series will also be available with BMW xDrive. The electronically controlled intelligent all-wheel-drive system will give the BMW 650i xDrive Coupé and BMW 650i xDrive Convertible unbeatable authority, traction and directional stability in all road and weather conditions. The list of upgrades in the new BMW 6 Series Coupé and new BMW 6 Series Convertible will also include a number of innovative equipment features.

BMW 640d Coupé and BMW 640d Convertible: instantaneous pulling power, unsurpassed efficiency.
The launch of the BMW 640d Coupé and BMW 640d Convertible sees BMW setting another new benchmark in the premium environs of the exclusive luxury 2+2-seater segment when it comes to efficient driving pleasure. Their predecessors successfully established diesel technology in this class of car. And now the engine that achieved such acceptance has passed on the title of the world's sportiest six-cylinder diesel to its even more powerful and economical successor. The BMW TwinPower Turbo technology of the new six-cylinder in-line powerplant comprises sequential turbocharging (Variable Twin Turbo) and common-rail direct injection with solenoid valve injectors. Peak torque of 630 Newton metres (464 lb-ft) is on tap between just 1,500 and 2,500 rpm and maximum output of 230 kW/313 hp arrives at 4,400 rpm. The instantaneously delivered pulling power enables acceleration of 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 5.5 seconds in the case of the BMW 640d Coupé and 5.6 seconds for the BMW 640d Convertible. The fuel consumption and CO2 values of the two diesel models set new standards in their segment. The BMW 640d Coupé has average fuel economy of 5.4 - 5.5 l/100 km (51.4 - 52.3 mpg imp) and CO2 emissions of 143 - 145 grams per kilometre. The average fuel economy of the BMW 640d Convertible stands at 5.6 - 5.7 l/100 km (49.6 - 50.4 mpg imp), and CO2 emissions come in at 147 - 149 g/km (as per EU test cycle, depending on tyre format).

Like the BMW 640i Coupé and BMW 640i Convertible, the two diesel models are equipped as standard with ECO PRO mode, which promotes an extremely calm - and therefore economical - driving style. ECO PRO mode is activated using the standard-fitted driving mode button on the centre console. Activating this mode adjusts the accelerator mapping and the shift characteristics of the automatic transmission, and prompts the heating and air conditioning system (as well as other electrically-controlled comfort functions) to work with maximum efficiency. The driver can admire this optimisation of fuel economy in the form of a "range bonus" flashed up in the instrument cluster. Symbols displayed here give the driver tips on how to use the car's fuel-saving potential in ECO PRO mode to maximum effect.

Available for the first time in the BMW 6 Series range: the intelligent all-wheel-drive system BMW xDrive.
Variants of the new BMW 6 Series Coupé and new BMW 6 Series Convertible fitted with the range-topping V8 engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo and 300 kW/407 hp can now also be ordered with xDrive. This new weapon in the BMW 6 Series' arsenal takes the sure-footed authority and acceleration of both models to new levels. The BMW 650i xDrive Coupé powers from rest to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 4.8 seconds, while the BMW 650i xDrive Convertible requires just 0.1 seconds longer to complete the same sprint.

The impressively innovative optional equipment also made available for the BMW 6 Series Convertible at the launch of the new BMW 6 Series Coupé includes Adaptive LED Headlights, which use LED units to generate low and main beam and also include a cornering function. The light they generate is extremely close to natural daylight and illuminates the road ahead with rich contrast. The Adaptive LED Headlights can be identified by the levelled off form - at the top and lower edges - of the twin round headlights.

New functions from BMW ConnectedDrive, M Sport package and exclusive options from BMW Individual.
The line-up of BMW ConnectedDrive technology available for both models from autumn 2011 will include Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go function.

This system also comprises Collision Warning with braking function, which automatically brakes the car for some 1.2 seconds, if required, and uses visual and audible alerts to prompt the driver to brake and/or perform an evasive manoeuvre. The selection of mobility services will be expanded to include the innovative Real-Time Traffic Information congestion warning system. Providing unbeatable audio pleasure on the move is the Bang & Olufsen High End Surround Sound System - developed specifically for each of the two models - with exclusive Acoustic Lens Technology plus amplifier output of 1,200 watts and 16 speakers in the BMW 6 Series Coupé, or 1,000 watts and 12 speakers in the BMW 6 Series Convertible.

From autumn 2011, both the Coupé and the Convertible version of the new BMW 6 Series will be available with an M Sport package, which includes features such as an M aerodynamics package, LED foglamps, 19-inch M light-alloy wheels in double-spoke design, sports seats with Alcantara/leather upholstery and an M leather steering wheel. Also available for both models is the BMW Individual range, which comprises - among other features - exclusive paint finishes, light-alloy wheels and exceptionally sophisticated and stylish options when it comes to tailoring the interior of the car to the customer's tastes.

Source: BMW

“Imagine” Luxury Yacht for Charter

2011-07-02T04:31:00.000-07:00

This splendid 212-ft luxury yacht was built in Holland by Amels and launched this year. Her eye-catching exterior was designed by British designer Tim Heywood and the luxe interiors are the work of Andrew Winch. Gorgeous from every perspective, the yacht is available for charter at €530,000 (approx. $770,000).

Here is what Imagine motor yacht has to offer. First of all, every deck boasts plenty of space for alfresco dining, relaxation and entertainment opportunities. A large swimming pool with Jacuzzi, a mini bar, a wet-feet bar and a Sky gym are all found on the Sundeck. The Bridge Deck boasts a dramatic Sky Lounge, a large dining alcove and a cozy spot in front of the wheelhouse for more intimate breakfast opportunities. The Main Deck features full-length windows with narrow mullions for sweeping views. Also here you will find a glass-surrounded large dining room. A Beach Club with extended swim platform, a shower, a bar and an entertainment system is located at the yacht’s stern.

Guests can easily go from one deck to another via a centrally positioned glass elevator or via the spiral staircase that also reaches all decks. The vessel can accommodate up to 14 guests in seven lushly appointed staterooms, plus a crew of 15. The master suite is full-width and is located on the Main Deck. It boasts a luxury bathroom, an office and a dressing room. The Bridge Deck holds two VIP suites with balconies. The Lower Deck is where you’ll find the remaining four grand suites .

The pictures below will help you get a better picture of Imagine’s awesomeness . Oh, and let’s not forget its tenders and bountiful amenities like the iPod docking stations in all guest cabins, Satellite & VOIP telephone system, high-end audio-video systems and more. The yacht even has a drop down cinema screen and movie projector in the sky lounge.

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Mandarin Oriental opens in Paris

2011-07-01T11:26:00.000-07:00

The Mandarin Oriental opened its doors in Paris on Tuesday, becoming the third top-end Asian hotel brand in less than a year to put out its shingle and woo rich visitors to the French capital.

Newly built behind a 1930s facade, the eight-story property on fashionable Rue Saint Honore boasts 99 rooms and 39 suites going for an average of 950 euros a night.

“We absolutely wanted to be in the best arrondissement, the best location for leisure travellers,” said Christoph Mares, director of operations for Europe.

The property is the 27th worldwide for the hospitality unit of Hong Kong’s Jardine Mathieson trading group which takes its name from two of Asia’s top hotels — the Mandarin in Hong Kong and the Oriental in Bangkok.

Its debut comes hard on the heels of the arrival in Paris last December of rival Hong Kong group Shangri-La, which oversees an 81-room property across the River Seine from the Eiffel Tower.

Singapore’s Raffles hotel has meanwhile been running the venerable Royal Monceau, a stone’s throw from the Champs-Elysees, since October after its roof-to-cellar renovation overseen by star designer Philippe Starck.

Hongkong and Shanghai Hotels plans to open its first Peninsula hotel in Europe, near the Arc de Triomphe, in 2013 in what used to be the Hotel Majestic.

Paris is already flush with luxury hotels, from the Ritz to the Plaza Athenee, Le Meurice, Le Crillon, the Costes, the Bristol and the Georges V.

Many of those are within a few minutes’ walk of the Mandarin Oriental.

But even with the Asian invasion, and lingering uncertainty after the global financial crisis of 2007, business is robust, growing more than 12 percent in the first four months of this year alone, industry sources say.

“The other hotels never noticed” when the Shangri-La opened and the Royal Monceau reopened, said Philippe Gauguier, who tracks the hotel industry for international consultants Deloitte.

“Business has never been so good,” agreed Francois Delahaye, director of operations at the Plaza Athenee and Le Meurice, both run by the Dorchester group, owned by the government of Brunei.

The Mandarin Oriental is targeting well-heeled guests — not just from Asia, but also from the United States and Latin America — likely stay at least three nights to enjoy the best shopping and culture in Paris, Mares said.

With its perfumed, chartreuse-coloured rooms, butterly motifs on the hallway carpets and animated floral graphics over the swimming pool, the Mandarin Oriental should especially appeal to women travellers.

“Yes, it’s feminine, but most of all it’s comfortable,” said Mares, who called the Paris property “a major step forward in the strategic development” of the group.

With 350 employees, the hotel also features a 900 square metre spa, a cocoonish 40-seat restaurant overseen by Michelin-starred chef Thierry Marx, and a cocktail bar cut from a single piece of brown Spanish marble.

Rack rate for a deluxe suite with balcony overlooking the open-air courtyard is 2,750 euros, while those for whom money is no object can ask for the 350 square metre (nearly 3,800 square foot) duplex penthouse.

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Jumby Bay Is the Private Island of Your Dreams

2011-02-15T07:10:00.000-08:00

Not many can afford to have their own private island, but that doesn’t mean private islands are completely inaccessible to guests. Jumby Bay for instance is a lovely Caribbean isle, two miles north of Antigua, that offers lush accommodation to anyone who wants to experience its delights.

Jumby Bay is only accessible by boat and its 300 acres of land is sprinkled with luxury homes belonging to the several dozen owners of the island. Rosewood Hotels and Resorts manage the 40 rooms in which guests can find some piece of quiet and relaxation.

Since it has been discovered by Christopher Columbus in 1493, the island hasn’t changed much, as the human presence almost didn’t affect its natural landscapes at all. No cars pollute the atmosphere here, as everybody uses either bicycles or golf buggies. Nature and luxury join hands in a serene and perfect harmony.

When guests feel like getting active, they can engage in numerous activities like kayaking, snorkeling, diving, sailing, parasailing, waterskiing and more. When water sports are not enough, tennis courts, biking and hiking trails, and a fully equipped gym await visitors for some land fun.

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The Lush Kanuhra Resort

2011-02-15T07:06:00.000-08:00

Somewhere in the Indian Ocean, there is the Lhaviyani Atoll of the Maldives. Here, a lovely retreat of relaxation and luxury awaits its visitors. It is the Kanuhra resort, located on a relatively small island: 1,000 meters long (a little over half a mile), and 200 meters wide (656 feet).

You have the possibility of choosing a water or beach villa from the 95 available. They all are luxuriously appointed, so no matter what you choose, your stay at the Kanuhra resort will definitely be a rewarding experience. They all feature satellite television, air conditioning, private veranda, DSL Internet, smoke detectors and even a large outdoor shower and bath.

There are several dining outlets on the island, but the wonderful part is that you can always opt for a more private experience on your own porch, on the seashore, around the pool, or even on the pristine beach of a neighboring island.

Kanuhra also offers perfect spa and recreational facilities such as the couples spa treatment rooms, the dry sauna, the steam bath, the Jacuzzi, the aerobics studio, or the fully equipped fitness center.

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Jewel of Kahana – A Dream Villa in Hawaii for Sale

2011-02-15T06:59:00.000-08:00

Can you even imagine a better house to live in than this gorgeous villa by architecture studio Arri LeCron? The 9,200 square-foot residence is located in Hawaii, on the Maui Island, in the Kahana Village. Did you know that living in a village can be so exciting? Not only is this a huge house, but the amenities it boasts are simply stunning.

We are talking about seven luxuriously appointed bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms and wet bars, three half bathrooms, a fully equipped kitchen plus another separate one for the butler, and a huge living area. The description continues with a floating mezzanine that features pool and games tables and a sport bar. Then there is the three-car garage, the spa, the lovely oceanfront pool, and even an extra guest house of 529 square feet.

All you need in order to get this amazing residence, suggestively called Jewel of Kahana, is some $14.9 million. For this price the house comes fully furnished.

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Mercedes-Benz SL 65 AMG by MR Car Design

2011-02-15T06:53:00.000-08:00

German tuner MR Car Design calls it the 'Shining Star', it's own version of the Mercedes-Benz SL 65 AMG.

The Erftstadt-based tuner does a little updating of the exterior on this 2005 SL with the addition of a new SLR inspired carbon bonnet from fellow tuner Kicherer. Optics also include a new rear bumper, black fender lights at the front and an new mid-mounted rear brake light in black too.

Upgrading takes place under the hood too, with a software tweaking of the ECU that adds 80 PS (79 bhp / 59 kW) and 110 Nm (81 lb-ft) of torque to the SL 65 AMG's standard output of 612 PS (450 kW/604 bhp) and 1,001 Nm (738 lb-ft) from the 6.0 liter twin-turbo V12 engine.

The V-max is also unlocked on the SL 65 AMG, a sport exhaust system is added and a suspension lowering by 30 mm is performed.

The car rides on 20-inch forged rims by Carlsson.

On the inside are custom-made Black Series dial lenses.

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World’s Most Expensive Shopping Mall

2011-01-28T07:49:00.000-08:00

In the US, we think of shopping malls as places for teenagers to hang out and purchase things for more than they’d cost just about anywhere else, places to get our holiday shopping done and places to walk in comfort for exercise. Will the same be true of the most expensive shopping mall in the world? Only time will tell.

The Bawadi mall, part of the Bawadi project in Dubailand, Dubai, will be the world’s most expensive shopping mall—if it’s ever completed. The original plans called for the 4-million-square-foot mall to be finished in 2012 for $2.7 billion, although construction on the Bawadi project was, at the very least, slowed by the 2008 financial crisis.

If completed, the Bawadi mall will be more expensive than the US $1.3 billion, 9.58-million-square-foot New South China Mall in Dongguan, China, and larger than the 12.1-million-square-foot Dubai Mall, part of Dubai’s $20 billion Burj Khalifa complex.

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Rolls-Royce Phantom EW by Wald International

2011-01-28T07:23:00.000-08:00

The Rolls-Royce Phantom Extend Wheelbase is an exceedingly rare car, but Wald International has just unveiled a new styling package for the luxury behemoth.

Dubbed the Sports Line Black Bison Edition, the package includes a Bentley-esque front bumper, modified side skirts, and an extended rear bumper. Other goodies include front fender vents, LED daytime running lights, and a trunk-mounted spoiler. If that hasn't won you over, the company also offers forged 24-inch Renovatio wheels.

Since there are no engine modifications, power is provided by a 6.75-liter V12 engine with 453 hp (460 PS / 338 kW) and 720 Nm (531 lb-ft) of torque. It enables the car to accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 6.1 seconds, before hitting a top speed of 240 km/h (150 mph).

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Billionaires' Pay

2011-01-28T07:14:00.000-08:00

1) Ralph Lauren

Salary and bonus: $15.1 million

Other compensation: $7 million

Stock Gains: $7.9 million

One-year total compensation: $30.1 million

2) K. Rupert Murdoch

Salary and bonus: $13.5 million

Other compensation: $2 million

Stock Gains: $0 million

One-year total compensation: $15.5 million

3) Leslie H. Wexner

Salary and bonus: $6.8 million

Other compensation: $1.9 million

Stock Gains: $0 million

One-year total compensation: $8.8 million

4) J. Willard Marriott Jr.

Salary and bonus: $1.2 million

Other compensation: $1.6 million

Stock Gains: $4.1 million

One-year total compensation: $6.9 million

5) Fredrick. W. Smith

Salary and bonus: $1.4 million

Other compensation: $1.3 million

Stock Gains: $1.6 million

One-year total compensation: $4.3 million

6) Michael.S.Dell

Salary and bonus: $0.9 million

Other compensation: $1.2 million

Stock Gains: $0 million

One-year total compensation: $2.1 million

Prior-year data

7) Charles W Ergen

Salary and bonus: $0.6 million

Other compensation: $0.4 million

Stock Gains: $1 million

One-year total compensation: $2 million

8) Jeffrey P Bezos

Salary and bonus: $0.1 million

Other compensation: $1.2 million

Stock Gains: $0 million

One-year total compensation: $1.3 million

Prior-year data

9) Sheldon G. Adelson

Salary and bonus: $1 million

Other compensation: $0.3 million

Stock Gains: $0 million

One-year total compensation: $1.3 million

Prior-year data

10) Steven A Ballmer

Salary and bonus: $1.3 million

Other compensation: $0 million

Stock Gains: $0 million

One-year total compensation: $1.3 million

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Pernod Ricard Launches New Ricard Bottle

2011-01-28T07:00:00.000-08:00

Following extensive redesigns for a number of its brands, Pernod Ricard has revamped its flagship brand for the first time in its nearly 80-year history.

The group has unveiled a new design for the Ricard bottle by a British company, in an attempt to boost sales for a drink that is synonymous with the French way of life.

Described as a “daring metamorphosis” by the Ricard company chairman Philippe Savinel, the new design aims to refresh the heritage pastis brand.

Ricard has been sold in a variety of limited-edition bottles but this is the first time since 1932 that the standard bottle will change. Price: €16.

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Porsche Panamera 4S for the Middle East

2011-01-28T06:56:00.000-08:00

Porsche has learned a good lesson from Rolls Royce: the Middle East knows how to appreciate luxury and exclusive products. So, at the Qatar Motor Show Porsche is showing their Panamera 4SExclusive Middle East Edition.

The defining elements of this special edition Panamera are the classy red leather interior, the Carrera White exterior, the small plaque on the door sill and the sleek black alloys. The Middle Eastern beauty is powered by the same engine that gives life to the standard 4S: a 4.8 liter V8 unit, which is coupled to a PDK dual-clutch gearbox. The Sport Chrono Plus package is standard.

Only 66 units will be made and they will each sell for a starting price of about $160,000.

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£4 Million Royal Bed: Baldacchino Supreme

2011-01-28T06:49:00.000-08:00

With such a heavy price tag, the Baldacchino Supreme is clearly one of the most expensive beds in the world. It is the stunning result of a collaboration between Stuart Hughes of Liverpool and Hebanon by Fratelli Basile Interiors of Nocera Superiore.

The piece is amazing for more than one reason: first of all, its royal appearance: both the design and the color choice suggest extreme luxury that must only be fitted in a regal home. Then there are the 107 kilograms of solid 24-karat gold and the gold leaf decorations.

Hand made, the bed has a chestnut wood structure, while other parts were made of ash wood and cherry wood. Italian silk and cotton decorates the most exclusive bed in the world, and you should know that all decorations are very customizable and can be made to meet the customer’s taste. Only two wealthy people will be able to enjoy the Baldacchino Supreme, as only two such beds will ever be made.

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English Tudor New Build In Highland Park, IL

2011-01-27T07:02:00.000-08:00

This English Tudor style home was built in 2008 and is located at 1773 Spruce Avenue in Highland Park, IL. It is situated on an approximately 1 acre wood lot and boasts 7,000 square feet of living space on the 1st and 2nd floors with 5 bedrooms, 6 bathrooms, a 2-story foyer, sweeping staircase, wood paneled library, great room with custom built-in, formal living and dining rooms, gourmet kitchen and more. The 3,000 square foot lower level boasts 1 bedroom, 1 bathrooms, a recreation room, gym, home Theatre, wine cellar and a bar. There is also a 4-car attached garage. It is listed at $2,695,000.

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World’s finest wine bars

2011-01-27T06:52:00.000-08:00

Whether you are planning a trip abroad or have just landed and need a place to unwind, visiting an enoteca – a wine bar – can be a no brainer. You don’t want to just drink anywhere. You want a place that meets or exceeds your highest expectations.

Wine bars are charming, elegant, romantic, and the perfect place to meet a local who can take your breath away… with their knowledge of the local area and travel advice, of course.

Here are some hot spots that you may want to take a look at if you love ambiance, sophistication and a glass of incredible wine.

Racines, Paris

Since opening in 2007, Racines has quickly become one of the city’s top spots for wine – and this is a city that knows its wines. Founded by legendary Pierre Jancou, though now under different (an some say even better) ownership, this unforgettable bar serves only organic wines from 15 local producers; the menu is also all-natural, and is the perfect accompaniment for the selection. A perfect spot for a dinner for two.

Terroir, New York City

Located in the city’s popular East Village area, Terroir is everything you could want out of a wine bar. It is small and intimate, the wine experts are extremely knowledgeable and the menu focuses on simple flavors that truly complement the wine. This is a great place to meet up with friends, or sit alone – with the number of attractive people who come here you can either people gaze or hope for a chance meeting.

Le Bar à Vin du CIVB, Bordeaux

If small and intimate sound stuffy to you, then perhaps the atmosphere of Le Bar à Vin may be just right. The high ceilings and ornate neoclassical architecture create a space that is nothing less than magnificent. Since it’s close to some of the finest local wineries in the region, you can find glasses of wine for a fraction of the price of anywhere else. Don’t miss it even if you are touring the countryside and visiting vineyards.

Globus Wine Cellar, Shanghai

Shanghai is currently one of the hottest spots to visit – and there is a burgeoning population of non-Chinese who are settling there. Leave it to them to open up a high-class wine bar to introduce good wine to the culture, as well as welcome those who are seeking something familiar. Order the cheese plate, be educated by the experts here and get the perfect palate cleaner from all of the five star Chinese food you’ve been eating.

Bounty Hunter Rare Wine and Provisions, Napa

America’s Napa and Sonoma Valley wine country is one of the most established producers of ‘new world’ wine. We point out this place because not only does this place feature some of the best wine of the area, but also a version of American food that is highly elevated. Whatever you may think of Barbeque, what you can get here will give you a newfound respect for the traditional cuisine of the United States.

Palatium, Rome

The wine bar found its roots in Rome, so we could not end this article without a classic. The Palatium is located in one of the city’s busiest districts (by the Spanish Steps), but is far from just another tourist trap. This wine bar has a long and robust wine list filled with incredible wines from near and far and the authentic cuisine will keep your stomach as happy as the wine is keeping your mouth. This is a place both visitors and locals enjoy.

The Ritz-Carlton Dubai International Financial Centre

2011-01-27T06:49:00.000-08:00

The Ritz-CarltonDubai International Financial Centre(DIFC) opens its doors!

The 341-room luxury hotel, with 124 executive residences is located in the heart of the Financial Centre, directly linked to the complex of buildings in Dubai International Financial Centre!

A dramatic 30 meter (100 feet) wine wall that is home to 3000 bottles of the finest varietals in the world is a focal point for gourmands and wine connoisseurs. Other dining selections include Blue Rain, the signature Thai fine-dining restaurant; Can Can, a French all-day dining brasserie and the Center Cut steakhouse, providing multiple settings for the enjoyment of the cuisine made famous by The Ritz-Carlton chefs. The Lobby Lounge & Terrace offers a casual elegance for the enjoyment of afternoon tea. Each restaurant boasts an expansive outdoor terrace.

A unique design facet of The Ritz-Carlton, DIFC showcases a 10-storeyoutdoor waterfall cascading down the building directly into the courtyard facing the lobby. A total of eight striking water features are situated throughout the hotel, which are not only aesthetically and aurally pleasing, but lend themselves to the feng shui belief that the constant flow of water signifies wealth and prosperity.

This splendid property is the second Ritz-Carlton in Dubai and the sixth property in the region for the luxury hotel company.

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New tallest tower for Beijing

2011-01-27T06:45:00.001-08:00

Designs have been released for the Z15 Tower - Beijing’s tallest new building - courtesy of TFP Farrells. Working with BIAD, ARUP and MVA, the international firm has produced designs for a towering curved structure which will dominate the skyline at over 120 storeys and more than half a kilometre in height. Located in the new extension to Beijing’s Central Business District in the east of the city, the gleaming high-rise is comprised of 60 floors of Grade-A office space, 20 floors of serviced apartments and approximately 20 floors of 300-key hotel facilities.

The collaborative group are aiming to use the latest in sustainable technology, materials and engineering concepts throughout the build. Offering over 300,000 sq m of high-class facilities, the Z15 Tower will form a vital component of the 30 hectare masterplan for the expansion of Beijing’s CBD. This vast development incorporates 2,000,000 sq m of office space, six-star hotels, luxury serviced apartments and high-end retail that connects to the existing metro station and adjacent shopping mall.
Yang Baojun, Vice Director and General Planner of China Academy of Urban Planning and Design, explained: “The scheme submitted by this high-calibre joint venture and led by CITIC, won first place of the five CBD land plots. Its greatest advantage is considering the overall urban spaces, architectural design and various engineering techniques in a unified manner to formulate a fully integrated urban design scheme in macro, meso and microscopic terms.”

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Lamborghini Gallardo LP 560-4 Bicolore revealed

2011-01-27T06:40:00.000-08:00

Lamborghini presents the Gallardo LP 560-4 Bicolore - An extreme look for a Special Edition supersports car

Just a month before the world debut at Geneva Motor Show of its V12 replacement for the Murciélago, Automobili Lamborghini is presenting at the 2011 Qatar Motor Show a highly exclusive and appealing vehicle making its world premiere: the Gallardo LP 560-4 Bicolore, a Special Edition supersports car which will be produced for the European and Asian-Pacific markets, while for the American market it will be only available in the version LP 550-2. As its name implies, this special series features an exclusive two-tone finish with matching interior, and offers a full range of standard equipment. A refined contrast between the black roof and the color of the rest of the body (available in a choice of five shades) further emphasizes the sharp, dynamic lines of the Gallardo LP 560-4, while simultaneously enhancing its sportiness and adding a touch of elegance to an extremely prestigious model in the field of automotive design.

The most successful super sports car in Lamborghini's history captures the imagination with the brutal power of its 560 hp V10 engine, the absolute grip of its permanent all-wheel drive and the razor-sharp precision of its chassis. Every kilometer in the Lamborghini Gallardo is an intense experience of explosive dynamics and absolute control. Its breathtaking performance is indicated by the 3.7 seconds it takes to reach 100 km/h and its top speed of 325 km/h.

"With the Gallardo LP 560-4 Bicolore, Lamborghini demonstrates once again the extreme, uncompromising and unmistakably Italian nature of our brand. The super sports cars from Lamborghini combine volcanic energy with design that is as unique as it is stylish," says Stephan Winkelmann, President and CEO of Automobili Lamborghini.

Unique design DNA
The success of Lamborghini's unequalled design DNA lies in the beauty of highly-concentrated power and precise function. The Gallardo is the sheer essence of form with a purist approach, so the body shell is crisply sculpted and completely free from decoration. A timeless piece of design and an uncompromising driving machine - the Lamborghini Gallardo is both.

Even more extreme, thanks to a personalized appearance
With its new Bicolore model, Lamborghini is now setting a further design highlight in the ten-cylinder model series. The colored exterior finish matched with the black on the upper area of the body gives the Gallardo a new, more aggressive personality that looks even wider, even more extreme and innately adhered to the road.

From the window-line upwards (including pillars, roof, engine hood and rear spoiler), the vehicle is decorated in Noctis Black - a pastel black that contrasts perfectly with the lower area of the body, available in a choice of five colors: Giallo Midas, Arancio Borealis, Grigio Telesto, Bianco Monocerus and Blu Caelum.

The exterior appearance is enhanced by Skorpius aluminum-alloy rims with 15 thin spokes that are forged to minimize unsprung weight and are finished in titanium gray enamel. And, the air intakes and front spoiler have a high-gloss black finish, as does the upper section of the rear diffuser.

Top-quality and highly individual interior
The contrast between black and color is repeated in an understated, elegant manner in the interior of the Gallardo LP 560-4 Bicolore. The instrument panel, seats, door panels and other elements in the passenger compartment are upholstered in the finest "Nero Persus" leather, with a refined contrast provided by precise stitching that is colored to match the exterior paintwork: yellow, orange, blue and gray (also used on the Bianco Monocerus version).

The bezel of the e-gear transmission on the center console is in Nero Noctis, just like the upper area of the vehicle. Obviously, the interior is finished in the Lamborghini tradition using only the materials of the very highest quality, which are crafted with undisputed professionalism and fine Italian workmanship.

V10 like a work of art in a glass display
The complete range of standard equipment includes the fast e-gear automated transmission controlled by paddles on the steering column. A lifting system enables the front axle to be raised for safer travel onto ramps and over humps in the road, and the engine hood in tempered glass provides a stunning view of the heart of the vehicle: a 5.2 liter, 90° V-10 engine with stratified direct injection.

From a satellite navigation system to a rear-view camera, from a brake system with carbon-ceramic discs to heated power seats, a long list of optional equipment and accessories allows the vehicle to be adapted to the personal requirements of any client.

Unique success for a super sports car
Well over 10,000 Gallardos have left the production facility at company headquarters in Sant'Agata Bolognese - a unique success story in the world of super sports cars. The Bicolore Special Edition is particularly intended for the enthusiast who desires a supercar with an exclusive appearance and remarkable design. In any event, he or she will own a Lamborghini that is altogether distinguished by an extremely dynamic character, maximum driving excitement, yet an ability to be driven daily.

Individual characters in one model range
The Gallardo Bicolore completes Lamborghini's ten-cylinder model range, which is enjoying enormous resonance worldwide with its broad spectrum of individual characters. While the Gallardo LP 560-4 is already a highly trained, extreme athlete, the Gallardo LP 570-4 Superleggera takes the notion of thoroughbred high performance even further. Thanks to its extensive experience in carbon-fiber lightweight engineering, Lamborghini succeeded in reducing its weight by a further 70 kilograms. At 2.35 kilograms per hp, the power-to-weight ratio of the Superleggera is the best in its class, with breathtaking performance guaranteed.

The Gallardo LP 560-4 Spyder, on the other hand, offers a very different kind of extreme driving pleasure - every trip with the roof down is a journey with a hurricane, yet with maximum protection. This can only be bettered - in true Lamborghini style - by the Gallardo LP 570-4 Spyder Performante. Its purist carbon-fiber lightweight engineering, according to Lamborghini's tradition, adds an even sharper edge to the dynamics.

Source: Lamborghini

Amosu Couture adds bling to the Blackberry Bold 9780 with a 24 carat mirror gold finish

2011-01-27T06:34:00.000-08:00

As Blackberry continues to garner more interest in the gadget world with its playbook tablet, Amosu Couture has decided to reintroduce the new Blackberry Bold 9780 with a big serving of opulence. Unlike the older variants of the Blackberry bold which saw Gold, Diamonds and Ostrich skin accents, the Amosu Couture version comes plated in 24 carat gold in mirror finish, and the Midas touch extends to the keypad too!

Priced at £1250 ($1,990) for a fresh piece, you can get your existing Blackberry Bold 9780 with the gold mirror sheen for an £550 ($875).

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