A Musical Masterpiece

In the illustrious world of pianos, few instruments can claim a lineage as rich and distinctive as the 1889 Steinway Artcase grand. After being crafted in Hamburg, Germany, this unique piano then embarked on a transformative journey under the skilled hands of Anton Bembé of Mainz, Germany, emerging as a true masterpiece of musical and visual art.

The piano’s grandeur is immediately recognized by the external artwork. Adorned with an elaborately painted case, the Steinway Artcase grand boasts intricate hand carvings, gilded accents, and meticulously applied wood designs. Each brushstroke and carving is a testament to the artistry of a bygone era. “It is truly one of a kind,” says Dan Murphy, president of Mid-America Piano. “It sounds beautiful, and the original ivory keys are perfect. The paintings are stunning and the matching beveled mirror is special all by itself. The complete package is so unique and unusual!”

Artcase grands, such as this 1889 Steinway were commonly commissioned by families to celebrate special occasions or presented as gifts to commemorate weddings, anniversaries, and more. The exteriors often featured personalized paintings and carvings that preserved the sentiment of the events. “Steinway is one of the premier piano makers in the world,” says Murphy, and it seems no detail was considered too small when creating this grand musical instrument.

While the exterior carvings and details remain in pristine condition, the hammers, soundboard, and tuning pins have been meticulously restored. These updates and the quality of craftsmanship allow for a warm and resonant tone that will delight music lovers. In addition, the original ivory keytops are still in prime condition. “The original key even has an etched ivory “keytag,” says Murphy, which is a testament to the care that’s been paid to the instrument throughout the years.

Adding to the uniqueness of this treasure is the inclusion of a matching stool and a beveled mirror. This complete package is a singular find in the music and art world. “Due to the extensive detail, it is likely this piano resided in a castle in Europe in its early life,” explains Murphy. “Today, this rare piano deserves to be enjoyed in an upscale estate, a museum or a luxury home.”

November 28, 2023 Comments Off

Designer Showcase at The Ritz-Carlton Residence, Portland

with:Unique Homes Staff

The ultimate expression of luxury living can be found at the Ritz-Carlton Residence in Portland, where guests and residents can experience the diverse landscape with sweeping views and easy access to all that the city has to offer. This unique setting is an inspiration for those seeking a high-end lifestyle with careful attention to every detail, especially the design. From November 17-25, LUXE | Forbes Global Properties is hosting a designer showcase, The Floor of Dreams, which will explore various interpretations of relaxed refinement by interior designers with the experience to impress.

The event will display the work of designers, Kevin Twitty Interiors, Tiffany Home Design, City Home Design Services, OnStage Home Staging, and Cielo Home and Design. Each offers a unique style and ethos that shines through their work. The proceeds from the event will go toward the Downtown Clean & Safe District, which is an enhanced service district in the city, where property owners supplement publicly financed services for neighborhood improvement including cleaning, security, market research, and retail advocacy.

A word from the designers

“The Pacific Northwest is known for its natural beauty, and the nearby Hillside and Portland Heights neighborhoods with their prominent tree lines inspired me to pull an element of the forest into the Residence,” says Kevin Twitty. “This can be seen in the use of sumptuous textures and lush greens to bring in a beautiful organic element to the design.” Twitty currently calls Portland home and strives to bring his passion for life into his work. His careful attention to detail has earned him several national and local design awards. Twitty says about the showcase, “As I pulled from these inspirations, I was careful to allow the luxury and refinement of the Residence play its own role in delivering a dwelling that would embody a timeless elegance and discerning sophistication that pays homage to this remarkable city.”

Cielo Home Interior Design is proud to be participating in the Floor of Dreams at The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Portland. It’s been another opportunity for the design firm to celebrate the individual taste of each client. “The inspiration for this space was the stylish, well-traveled client of The Ritz-Carlton. It is a warm and inviting “landing pad” with a priceless view,” says a representative from the Cielo Home team. “Nature and the beauty of the changing light in the space gave us guidance, while a subtle use of paint colors creates a seamless flow from room to room. The furnishings are a clever mix of family heirlooms, contemporary upholstery, fine custom rugs, and curated works of art, many sourced locally.”

Join the fun

The Floor of Dream showcase is bound to inspire guests, and the proceeds will be directed towards a good cause. The event will be open to ticket holders from November 17-25. More information about tickets can be found online.

November 15, 2023 Comments Off

Green Acres

with:Unique Homes Staff

As new trends change and evolve in real estate, one thing has been consistent as of late: green initiatives. It’s cool to be kind to the environment in 2023 — even the little things can have a ripple effect to create change all around us.

Luxury developments across the globe are leading by example in this department. Many are following in the footsteps of planet-friendly legislation, and creating their own ways of sustainable living for residents, whether it’s solar-paneled energy, electric cooking devices, conservation of land, or harvesting fruits and vegetables.

The Strand in Turks and Caicos has a<br />
pollinator sanctuary.

The Strand, a luxury oceanfront real estate development in Turks and Caicos, sees the pros far outweighing the cons when it comes to these changes.

“Practicing sustainability is just being smart, thoughtful and forward-thinking,” says John Fair, managing director, developer and project manager at The Strand. “Would you rather pay 50 cents per kilowatt-hour for electricity generated from diesel fuel, or 13 cents per kilowatt-hour from the sun?”

The Strand offers private homes, villas, and custom residences overlooking Cooper Jack Bay on the island, with gorgeous views and shoreline swimming. One of the factors that it is most proud of, beyond offering solar-powered homes, is its ability to turn the property into a pollinator sanctuary for all types of creatures.

The Strand also incorporates the textures of the<br />
natural landscape into the architecture of each<br />
homesite; particularly their roots in coral stone.

The Strand propagates native flowers and plants on site, which is able to attract all kinds of butterflies, dragonflies, hummingbirds and more to the property. A plethora of flora and fauna boasts beautiful scenery all around, and offers improved air quality and green ecosystems.

The Strand is focused on incorporating the natural scenery into the architecture of the homes as well. According to Fair, the property sits on a limestone shelf, which millions of years ago was a coral reef. Now, seashell limestone and coral stone is incorporated into the flooring and textures of every residence on the property. This allows the natural surroundings to blend seamlessly into the present.

Beyond just the beauty, The Strand also integrates state-of-the-art smart technology in every room, only LED lighting throughout the property, and smart irrigation systems with rainwater catchment cisterns.

Another development focused on the success of its natural environment is Tributary, located in Driggs, Idaho. Tributary is a 1,500-acre development, with luxury real estate nestled in gorgeous wildlife. Five hundred of its acres are fen-designated wetlands, which are pristinely maintained by the Teton Regional Land Trust.

“The Woods Creek Fen is the most floristically unique wetland in Teton County,” says Sara Beth Judson, real estate sales associate at Tributary, of the property. “The fen is managed to protect the on-site wildlife and rare plants.”

In addition to the existing wetlands, Judson notes, it also has constructed various ponds on site, in order to provide shelter and habitats for native trumpeter swans, long-billed curlews, waterfowl and shorebirds. Tributary is perfect for hiking alongside the ponds in the summer, and well-known as an emerging top-10 skiing destination in the winter.

The land itself is entrenched in rich, vast ecosystems, and residents can enjoy being a part of it all. Tributary is situated in the western slope of the Teton mountain range, and also in a high alpine valley, which makes it a “biodiversity hotspot.” The property is actually part of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, one of the most integral ecological landscapes in the world. This 15-million-acre organization encompasses Yellowstone and Grand Teton national parks as well.

“With every expansion or home being built, we take full consideration of our footprint and the materials used to ensure we are responsible stewards of the incredible ecosystem that surrounds us,” Judson says.

Vineyards, budding oak trees, and<br />
buzzing beehives are just a few of the<br />
vibrant ecosystems that are alive on the<br />
Montage Residences property.

Providing a bit of a different landscape is Montage Residences Healdsburg, in sunny Sonoma County, California, which takes this one step further with its own sustainable farms. Montage Residences, which offers luxury estates and homesites, is located in the scenic Alexander Valley, closeby to the Russian River. With private vineyards, towering oak trees, honey-soaked beehives, and an orchard of hazelnut trees to produce truffles, it’s safe to say that Montage Residences has a well-produced ecosystem.

Each residence is crafted through tolerant landscaping, with renewable-energy systems made possible through Tesla batteries. The property is also Cal Certified, meaning that the homes are extremely well-rated for energy efficiency. Montage Residences is able to offer unique farm-to-table dining experiences, and also a true integration into the environment through the use of their farms and natural production.

“The rolling hillsides of Healdsburg not only provide beautiful vineyard vistas, but also create opportunities for uniquely designed homes that are built into the landscape instead of on it,” says Neil Johnson, managing director of development at Ohana Real Estate Investors, from Montage. “Homes at Montage Residences Healdsburg complement the natural landscape of Northern California, preserving the rolling terrain and native oak trees in each home design.”

Each of these properties agree that green infrastructure should not only be a piece of their initiatives, but a top priority. The land gives way to each of these incredible experiences, and is treated as an honored host.

“Preserving the magic and beauty of the natural setting through environmental stewardship is incredibly important to us,” Johnson mentions. “In speaking with owners at Montage Residences Healdsburg, they’re most excited about the opportunity to live within the region’s natural beauty.”

November 3, 2023 Comments Off

Cash for Craft

with:Unique Homes Staff

By Roger Grody

In the past two decades, an explosion of craft distilleries — much like the proliferation of microbreweries that preceded it — brought greater innovation and individuality to the spirits industry. Passionate entrepreneurs were suddenly creating spirits whose quality rivaled esteemed household-name brands, and now some of the world’s largest corporations are snapping up those startups.

Henry Preiss, co-founder of Preiss Imports and a brand creator himself, reports, “It’s interesting to watch how rapidly this trend is progressing. Hardly a week goes by that don’t see a major deal announced.” Preiss explains, “The big guys with deep pockets are looking for luxury brands in emerging categories that are scaling,” and cites Diageo’s blockbuster purchase of George Clooney’s Casamigos tequila in 2017 as a catalyst in a fast-moving market. It not only reinforced the popularity of agave-based spirits, but spawned other celebrity labels whose founders would be delighted with similar results.

Texas-based Balcones Distilling gave Diageo a<br />
foothold in the American craft whiskey sector.

Preiss explains that large multinational companies are willing to take a bet on a hot brand, and if they are unable to scale it they have the financial wherewithal to write it off. He cites 42 Below vodka and Leblon cachaça as two Bacardi acquisitions that are now difficult to find on the shelves. Preiss believes that quality is sometimes compromised after brands are acquired by large corporations, as the influence of personally invested founders diminishes over time. “Big companies are not about loving the business, but loving the bottom line,” says the 49-year veteran of the spirits industry.

Last year, Constellation Brands acquired the remaining interest in Austin Cocktails, a maker of premium, award-winning bottled and canned craft cocktails. “Operating in an environment where women entrepreneurs are significantly under-funded, we feel a sense of tremendous accomplishment,” says Kelly Gasink, who brought her products to market in 2014 with sister Jill Burns.

Spirit giant Diageo — its brands include Ketel One, Johnnie Walker and Captain Morgan — recently purchased Mr Black, an Australian cold brew coffee liqueur, anxious to establish a presence in a sector that has become highly competitive with the re-emergence of cocktails like the espresso martini and revolver. Claudia Schubert, president of Diageo North America, relates, “We believe Mr Black is just getting started in the dynamic coffee liqueur segment,” while co-founder Tom Baker states, “Coffee is more than just a drink — it’s a culture, ritual, obsession, aesthetic, experience, tradition, and community.”

Constellation Brands has been particularly aggressive about investing in or purchasing innovative distilleries. In 2020, the Fortune 500 corporation’s venture capital arm acquired Louisville’s Copper & Kings, maker of award-winning craft brandy aged in bourbon barrels. Copper & Kings, which has also produced gin, absinthe and a line of liqueurs, is famous for its unique technique of piping music through the cellar to enhance aging.

A flurry of recent acquisitions has focused on American whiskey producers, allowing international corporations to gain a foothold in the robust sector. Food and spirits writer Steve Coomes, author of The Rebirth of Bourbon and The Home Distiller’s Guide to Spirits, suggests the motivations of most transactions are hardly unexpected. “The owners of acquired distilleries realize staying competitive is outstripping their capital, while the buyers get brand diversity and mature, well-run businesses with market penetration.”

Some owners, explains Coomes, remain involved in the creative process after the deals close, but notes that distillery founders are the types of entrepreneurs wary of taking orders from corporate headquarters. “Sometimes the owners just want to make great whiskey, but the acquiring company wants to push a ready-to-drink product,” says Coomes of potential friction.

Recognizing value in the Kentucky bourbon industry, Milan-based Campari Group entered<br />
into a deal with Wilderness Trail Distillery.

Late last year, London-based Diageo acquired Balcones Distilling, the up-and-coming Texas whiskey producer. Diageo’s Schubert commented, “The Balcones team are true innovators and pioneers in the emerging American single malt and Texas whiskey movements, and their super premium-plus whiskeys are highly complementary to our portfolio.”

Greg Allen, chairman of the 15-year-old distillery, said, “Balcones started with an idea driven by an innovative spirit and passion to create something original and authentic in the heart of Texas.” He added, “We’re thrilled that Diageo shares our belief in its potential and we look forward to seeing Diageo bring Balcones’ incredible whiskeys to more consumers.”

In 2016, fast-growing High West Distillery was acquired by Constellation, which viewed the Park City, Utah, company’s American whiskeys as particularly appealing. “High West’s whiskeys are high-end, distinctive and delicious — perfect for today’s knowledgeable consumer who enjoys artfully crafted whiskeys,” explained Bill Newlands, Constellation’s president and CEO. Resolving to work closely with the label’s founding couple, David and Jane Perkins, he added, “With the addition of High West, Constellation Brands bolsters its position in the dynamic and growing craft spirits category.”

“The ideal situation is when the acquiring company recognizes the brand as a great horse they want in their stable, and are committed to making it bigger and better,” says Coomes. A deal the journalist views as representing the best-case scenario is a 70-percent stake that Milan-headquartered Campari Group recently took in Kentucky’s Wilderness Trail Distillery — hardly a craft operation, it is recognized as the 14th-largest bourbon producer — with the remaining 30-percent interest to follow in 2031.

Constellation Brands diversified its portfolio<br />
through the acquisition of Copper & Kings, a<br />
Kentucky producer of craft brandies.

“The owners will likely use that substantial new capital to invest in distillery operations while Campari will move the bottles,” says Coomes, who adds, “That’s great for the consumer.” It is too early to assess the ultimate impact on the quality of Wilderness Trail whiskeys. The good news, however, is that there is no shortage of passionate entrepreneurs anxious to launch their own craft distilleries.

October 27, 2023 Comments Off

Spiritual Transformations

with:Unique Homes Staff

By Roger Grody

Places of worship are designed for a very specific function, so when they are abandoned — parishioners migrate elsewhere or structures become physically compromised — it is challenging to repurpose the buildings. But designers who appreciate the heritage of sacred sites achieve extraordinary transformations, retaining a sense of spirit even when the buildings are readapted for less virtuous activities.

As congregations have declined, some neighborhood churches in Boston have been decommissioned, leading to creative conversions into luxury condominium projects. Representing one of the most dramatic of those adaptive reuses is The Lucas, a sleek high-end condominium building rising from the Gothic form of Holy Trinity German Catholic Church, originally constructed in 1874.

Holy Trinity had been vacant for a decade, so the city allowed an ambitious developer to erect a bold, eight story steel-and-glass tower within the granite and puddingstone masonry shell of the historic structure, with five floors rising above the original roofline of the sanctuary. While the new construction may sound incompatible with the Gothic structure, Finegold Alexander Architects designed the new addition to be discretely tucked behind the original façade.

A landmark church in Boston has<br />
been boldly repurposed as The Lucas,<br />
a luxury condominium project.<br />
Preservation of the original Gothic<br />
façade honors the historic site while<br />
retaining a human scale.

Tony Hsiao, principal and director of design at Finegold Alexander, suggests that churches, with their unique detailing and large windows, make transformations into luxury condominiums a natural progression, and reports The Lucas was sold-out prior to completion. Ellen Anselone, principal and vice president at the Boston-based firm, submits that despite the project’s bold infusion of modernism, it was sensitive to the neighborhood. “By preserving the façade, this project maintains a neighborhood scale and is consistent with the fabric of the neighborhood,” she says, noting that residents were pleased the abandoned building was redeveloped and appreciated that the new use was residential.

The visible stories of the modern addition are stepped back, reducing its visual impact, and creative design elements further harmonize the tower with the 19th century structure. “The inspiration was to integrate the new with the old, tying the new structure to the historic framework,” explains Hsiao. “The steel buttresses on the new tower were derived from the buttresses in the original Gothic architecture,” he adds.

Severe earthquake damage threatened demolition of Los Angeles’ Cathedral of Saint Vibiana, but preservationists ultimately saved the 1876 landmark. A new, modern cathedral was erected a few blocks away, and beloved Saint Vibiana was masterfully repurposed for less pious entertainment. The restored architecture Italianate structure now houses Redbird, the restaurant of acclaimed L.A. chef Neal Fraser, and Vibiana, an adjoining event space.

Redbird, one of the<br />
LA's top restaurants.

Amy Knoll Fraser, the chef’s wife and owner/operator of Redbird and Vibiana, recalls her first tour of the building in 2008, when she learned the owners of the property were looking for a restaurant to fill the historic space. “I froze, got chills and thought, ‘We have to do this’…I knew we were the ones to transform it.” The couple felt obligated to pay reverence to one of L.A.’s most historic buildings by offering a dining experience that balances tradition, innovation and cultural L.A.’s Saint Vibiana, a historic Italianate cathedral, has been reimagined as Vibiana, an event venue, and Redbird, one of the city’s top restaurants.

L.A.’s Saint Vibiana, a<br />
historic Italianate cathedral,<br />
has been reimagined as<br />
Vibiana, an event venue,<br />
and Redbird, one of the<br />
city’s top restaurants.

Working with designer Robert Weimer, who collaborated with the couple on previous restaurants, a design was conceived that introduces contemporary components while still paying homage to the existing architecture. “We viewed the original as a backdrop for the adapted use, lovingly placing the new elements within,” explains Weimer.

Emphasizing the intention was to complement the original architecture, not transform it, the designer states, “The added pieces are modern and crisp, and together with the slightly worn edges of the original historic building, the space has a dynamism and dialogue it wouldn’t have had otherwise.”

A cliffside monastery on Italy’s Amalfi Coast was splendidly transformed into<br />
Monastero Santa Rosa Hotel & Spa, a world-class boutique hotel.

Redbird’s dining room, a soaring space capped by a galleria-like glass ceiling, occupies what was originally Saint Vibiana’s rectory. It hosts a trendy clientele enjoying dishes like beef tartare with kimchi aioli and egg jam, or California sea bass with fregola and mussels in saffron-scented tomato broth. Knoll Fraser reports, “Neal’s cooking has always been a celebration of the multiculturalism of our city and we feel the property deserves to remain a place of community.” Chef/owner Neal Fraser suggests, “The architecture told us how to design the space and the menu,” and observes, “People love the fact the building is historic, but doesn’t feel like a museum.”

Occupying a landmark 1859 church in Portland, Maine, is Trine Events at Grace, hosting weddings, nonprofit banquets and corporate events. Noting the history of the building is what distinguishes the venue, owner Anne Rutherford states, “It’s impossible to be in the space without feeling the hum of almost 200 years of gathering, celebration, reverence and community.”

The Monastero Santa Rosa Hotel & Spa offers breathtaking views<br />
of the Tyrrhenian Sea.

It is not uncommon for churches, convents or monasteries to be reimagined as boutique hotels and Monastero Santa Rosa Hotel & Spa on Italy’s idyllic Amalfi Coast is a particularly stunning example. A restored 17th-century monastery, the hotel hugs a rugged cliff above the Tyrrhenian Sea, offering breathtaking views from its Michelin-starred restaurant and infinity pool. The property’s 20 rooms and suites, housed in what were originally the nuns’ quarters, provide the kind of sanctuary that is impossible to find in a large cosmopolitan hotel.

Although historic churches and monasteries may not be intrinsically well-suited to be repurposed as luxury hotels, Monastero Santa Rosa’s front office manager Pompeo Amendola believes this site demonstrates the enormous potential of such conversions. “These properties offer the unique opportunity to create specialized spaces and curated experiences that provide a genuine sense of place otherwise unavailable to guests,” he maintains.

Amendola reports a team of architects and historians collaborated on the restoration of Monastero Santa Rosa Hotel & Spa. “The main focus was to revive the spirit of Santa Rosa, creating modern-day experiences for the most discerning traveler while maintaining elements of its storied past,” he explains. One small but poetic example of connecting guests to the site’s history is a celebration of the monastic order’s legendary baking heritage. A sweet cream-filled pastry known as sfogliatella Santa Rosa originated at the monastery and is still baked on-site, placed in breadbaskets for guests to enjoy at breakfast.

In the Peruvian Andes, the JW Marriott El Convento Cusco is built on the site of a 16th century convent. At the hotel’s reception desk is a massive, sculptural lighting fixture (handcrafted from 76,500 Swarovski crystals) that represents the God of the Sun in Incan iconography, a further reminder that this hotel was really 500 years in the making.

Another historic South American convent housing a luxury hotel is the Sofitel Legend Santa Clara, located in the historic district of Cartagena, Colombia, a short walk to the ocean. The property successfully blends modern amenities with the spirit of the original 17th century convent. Its 1621 restaurant, for instance, occupies the Clarist nuns’ former dining room, but now features refined French technique applied to local ingredients.

“Our experiences are truly unique,” states Carmen Otero, sales and marketing director of the Sofitel Legend Santa Clara. She notes that colonial Cartagena has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site and that the guest experience at the hotel is fully integrated into the ancient city’s rich history. “In all of our spaces we’ve involved local culture, which allowed us to retain the magic that can only be expressed in this place with 400 years of history,” explains Otero. Elaborate ocean-view suites tastefully blend the site’s religious history with the decadence of pure luxury.

October 26, 2023 Comments Off

A Link to the Stars

with:Unique Homes Staff

The world has never been more connected than it is now. Human beings have found ways to stay in touch with each other when separated across oceans, despite language barriers, and even through the reaches of space. One expedition cruise company, Hurtigruten Expeditions, has partnered with SpaceX to make use of Starlink technology, which has helped to make its fleet of cruise ships more connected to the rest of the world than ever before.

Hurtigruten Expeditions remains dedicated to studying emerging technology in on-board science centers such as this one. Broadband connectivity is strong from the front deck to the stately suites. And, designed for the comfort of both guests and crew, the fleet has world-class amenities, including the stunning infinity pool.

Hurtigruten Expeditions was built “with sustainability and exploration at the core,” according to Kristoffer Halvarp, Hurtigruten’s product manager for network and maritime operational technology systems. “Hurtigruten

Expeditions operates a fleet of small, custom- built expedition cruise ships,” says Halvarp, “including the world’s first battery-hybrid-powered cruise ships” as well as being “the first and only cruise liner to have a chief scientist.” The fleet has evolved quite a bit since their inception in 1896, now committed to sailing to the most adventurous locations on the planet with a commitment to sustainability and advancing technology.

It is partially thanks to that commitment that Hurtigruten sought out a partnership with SpaceX, a company on the forefront of breakthroughs in technology and space travel. One of SpaceX’s major innovations in recent years is Starlink, a broadband service that utilizes a series of low-earth orbit (LEO) satellites that provide high-speed internet access. “LEO connectivity has been on our radar for a long time,” says Halvarp, “and it just released as we started Hurtigruten Expeditions’ first sailings out of Hamburg.”

The partnership between SpaceX and Hurtigruten entails the integration of Starlink broadband connectivity across its entire fleet of expedition cruise ships. Halvarp was candid about Starlink’s benefits, saying “We are always trying to push the limits with technology, providing our guests with the most up-to-date digital solutions.” He continued to explain that Starlink’s LEO connectivity is “fast, stable and reliable, providing a low latency, high-bandwidth solution almost everywhere on the planet,” even allowing guests to “share their moments live from Antarctica.” Providing comfort and easy internet access to both the guests and crew of their ships is a top priority for Hurtigruten with this collaboration with Starlink. Halvarp states that “guests can stream and browse just like at home now.”

The-infinity-pool-MS-Roald-Amundsen-Credit_Oscar_Farrera

While Hurtigruten will continue to use its previously implemented Geostationary-Earth Orbit (GEO) broadband solutions as a backup, Halvarp believes in the longevity of LEO solutions like Starlink going forward. “LEO has come to stay,” he says, adding, “Starlink provides a solid service, but many new competitors are coming fast with different models for connectivity.” Halvarp and Hurtigruten believe that the changing needs of travelers requires a strong broadband connection at all times, even in the most rugged and adventurous parts of the world. SpaceX and Starlink are the first to bring this level of interconnectivity to the seas, but don’t be surprised if you start to see faster download speeds and lower latency on all cruise ships around the world in the years to come.

October 20, 2023 Comments Off

Winter’s Finest: 10 Luxe Sweaters to Keep You Stylishly Warm

with:Unique Homes Staff

By Kristen Hunt

Sablyn Eloisa Cashmere Cardigan

Fall in love with winter in this pastel cream cashmere cardigan by Sablyn. Its oversized sleeves and ribbed hemming bring to life the designer’s motto of sophisticated and sexy. For a chic look, pair it with a tan mock neck sweater and loose straight pants. Accessorize with a stylish bucket bag and heeled loafers, experiment with a mix of neutral tones for a stunning monochromatic ensemble.

Carolina Herrera Wool Knit Sweater with Embellished Ruffle Sleeves

Elevate your winter style with Carolina Herrera’s wool knit sweater featuring layered ruffle sleeves and delicate pearl detailing. Match it effortlessly with high-waisted black trousers, pearl earrings, and a sleek black clutch. Complete the look with either black pumps or pointed boots for a timeless touch.

Dolce & Gabbana Leopard Oversized Wool-Cashmere Cardigan

Unleash your wild side with Dolce & Gabbana’s Leopard Oversized Cardigan. Crafted from virgin wool, it’s a statement piece that requires minimal layering. Pair it with a fitted black long sleeve or turtleneck, along with slim straight black trousers or skinny jeans. Accessorize with delicate gold jewelry and a chic black tote. Finish the look with slouchy boots and a black and gold belt for added texture.

TSE Cashmere Cable-Knit Cardigan

Experience the cozy allure of TSE Cashmere’s Cable-Knit Cardigan, exuding an elegant and edgy charm with its twist pattern and plunging v-neck. Combine it with dark wash relaxed flare jeans and dark brown heeled boots. Elevate your style with a lariat necklace and small diamond hoops.

TSE Cashmere Recycled Cashmere Cable-Knit Fringe Cardigan

Whether you’re heading to a cabin retreat, a casual coffee date, or holiday shopping, this heavy cable-knit sweater has you covered in warmth and style. Its playful dark-toned patterns and fringe details make it a true wardrobe essential. Pair it effortlessly with a white long sleeve shirt and boot cut jeans, and complete the look with trendy black or brown combat booties.

Alexander McQueen Wool Peplum Jumper with Shoulder Pads

Make a bold statement with Alexander McQueen’s bright red wool sweater. From the striking shoulder pads to the captivating peplum flare, it’s the perfect addition to your office attire or a night on the town. Bring the vision to life with dark wash boot cut jeans and your favorite red pumps. Accessorize with statement earrings and a dazzling clutch to turn heads wherever you go.

Brunello Cucinelli Men’s Knit Full-Zip Cardigan Sweater

Indulge in comfort with the Brunello Cucinelli Knit Full-Zip Cardigan Sweater. Designed to effortlessly elevate your business casual attire, it’s a must-have for winter festivities and beyond. Create a timeless ensemble by pairing it with a cream-colored button-up shirt, tailored gray slacks, a classic brown belt, and brown loafers.

Loro Piana Men’s Cashmere Parksville Full-Zip Sweater

Elevate your everyday style with the Loro Piana Cashmere Parksville Full-Zip Sweater in a rich forest green. Crafted for comfort and refinement, this versatile piece seamlessly transitions from home to office to special occasion. For a casually chic appearance, pair it with a crisp white tee, complemented by dark jeans and brown Chelsea boots. Looking to make a statement? Combine it with charcoal slacks, sleek black loafers, and a classic trench coat.

Ralph Lauren Purple Label Men’s Birdseye Cashmere Quarter-Zip Sweater

The Ralph Lauren Purple Label Birdseye Cashmere Quarter-Zip Sweater in a deep burgundy red is a must for the holiday season. This exceptionally soft and lightweight piece is designed for seamless layering, ensuring that you’ll stay warm and sophisticated throughout the season. For a flawless ensemble, pair it with olive green slacks, a rich brown belt, and luxurious brown boots.

ZEGNA Men’s Oasi Cashmere Knit Turtleneck Sweater

This ZEGNA Oasi Cashmere Knit Turtleneck Sweater exudes modern chic and is destined to be a wardrobe staple. Complement it with any classic pair of slacks and enhance your look with a tasteful watch and a subtle golden chain for added flare.

Brunello Cucinelli Men’s Cable-Knit Cashmere Sweater

Capture the essence of holiday charm with the Brunello Cucinelli Cable-Knit Cashmere Sweater. Its thick braided pattern and unrivaled comfort makes it cozy and classic. Style minimally with a dark wash pair of jeans, a black leather belt, and black leather boots.

Brioni Men’s Ribbed Cashmere Crewneck Sweater

The chilly season is no match for the Brioni Ribbed Crewneck Sweater, in a perfect light cream hue. This mid-heavy weight cashmere is the quintessential layering piece. Elevate your ensemble with dark wash jeans, a light puffer jacket, and light brown suede boots.

October 19, 2023 Comments Off

High-Tech Health Gadgets

with:Unique Homes Staff

By Marlene Ridgway

If your sights are set on living a healthier lifestyle, boosting your mood, or reaching new fitness milestones, then consider adding some technology to the mix. These high-tech health gadgets, from analytics to recovery, could be the addition to your routine that will make your ambitions a reality.

Hack Your Metabolism With Lumen

This metabolism tracker evaluates your diet and exercises on a highly individualized level. The device fits right in the palm of your hand, but is capable of providing accurate metabolic testing that previously wasn’t readily available outside of hospitals. Lumen concisely explains what your body needs throughout the day.

“Lumen uses patented algorithms, CO2 sensors, flow meters, barometric pressure, and temperature sensing technology to determine the carbon dioxide concentration in a single breath. This concentration indicates the type of fuel your body is using for energy,” says Dr. Michal Mor, chief of product and science at Lumen.

The technology behind Lumen essentially teaches your body how to better use the fuel it has. The personal results are what make this product so unique. “By understanding how your body is reacting to what you eat and do throughout the day, whether in carb or fat burn, you can understand how to fuel your day if you’re working out later or if you need a low-carb day and you are mostly sitting in the office,” says Mor. This device allows you to prepare and stay at peak performance throughout your busy schedule.

This device may not seem like a complicated piece of equipment, but the science behind it can help your body recover and relax on a cellular level. Pulsed Electromagnetic Field (PEMF) therapy is a way to influence your cells, whether they need a recharge or need to be activated before a long day or difficult workout. This patent-pending technology emits frequencies that can reach your cells and help your body recover faster and train your body to work smarter, which means better relaxation, and an overall sense of wellness.

The technology that makes HAELO unique is that it can emit several different frequencies at once. This is compared to other therapies that only send one at a time. In addition, HAELO’s comfortable design can be held, can target a specific area of your body, or simply be near you to experience the benefits. The device produces a six-foot field from the center, which can read your cells from head to toe and jumpstart recovery. $3,297

WHOOP is a Wearable Fitness Tracker and Health Coach

This wearable device is constantly working and gathering data to keep you at your best. “Every day when you wake up, WHOOP calculates a Recovery score. That score lets you know if your body is ready to perform, needs an active recovery day, or requires rest,” explains a WHOOP representative. The health tracker determines the score based on physiological metrics, such as heart-rate variability, resting heart rate, sleep, and your respiratory rate, and can help you better plan your day from start to finish.

However, the magic doesn’t stop there. WHOOP functions throughout the day, collecting data and calculating your strain, such as how much anxiety, travel, and overall stress you are experiencing. “Every night, WHOOP calculates your sleep performance by measuring the sleep you got compared to the sleep your body needs,” explains a WHOOP representative. “The following night, Sleep Coach will provide personalized sleep and wake times based on your daily effort and performance from the night prior.” The device can also send soft vibrations at just the precise time to wake you up as well and leave you feeling rested.

$399 for 12-month membership

Bellabeat is a Women-focused Wellness Brand

Bellabeat was engineered by women for women. “My co-founder and I started the company in 2014,” says Urska Srsen, the co-founder of Bellabeat, “and what we saw was a flood of products developed with the male user in mind and we saw that as a great opportunity.” IVY and the Leaf Chakra health trackers, for example, have similar technology to other wearable trackers, but the application, data processing algorithms, and product appearance are specifically engineered for women’s health and lifestyle.“

We decided to create a brand that develops tech-driven products with a focus on the female user,” says Srsen. These are stylish devices that monitor your heart rate, respiratory rate, cardiac coherence, and physical and mental activity. The device is lightweight and made of quality materials, but it also doesn’t have a screen. The tracker is meant to be worn and forgotten, without distractions and constant interruptions. Ever since the early stages of Bellabeat, the team has worked to bring about innovative products that don’t necessarily fit the mold. “We now have a whole ecosystem of connected products and digital experiences created to help women track and improve their physical and mental health,” explains Srsen.

IVY $249 / Leaf Chakra $89

October 18, 2023 Comments Off

Ritual Rooms

with:Unique Homes Staff

By Ritika Jain

When you think of luxury, you don’t often think of rituals and routines. However, in the aftermath of years of isolation and uncertainty, people are striving for a sense of routine and community in their day-to-day lives. In response, luxury residences are starting to create shared spaces bathed in lavish details for residents to connect and spend quality time. These spaces are called “Ritual Rooms,” which promote regular gatherings among residents within the building itself, often complete with lavish features and striking views. Rooms of this kind are popping up in upscale condominiums in Florida, including The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Estero Bay and Nexo Residences, North Miami Beach.

The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Estero Bay is a towering structure in Southwest Florida with two-, three- and four-bedroom residences and overlooks Florida’s first aquatic preserve, Estero Bay. In order to make use of South Florida’s gorgeous sunset views, it now boasts a Sunset Lounge designed by New York-based interior design studio Meyer Davis, complete with a bar and double-height glass surroundings. Craig Klingensmith, vice president of London Bay Development Group, shared with The High End the inspiration behind the Sunset Lounge and what they hope it will accomplish.

The Sunset Lounge at The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Estero Bay was<br />
designed to promote a sense of community among residents with a<br />
casual yet luxurious elegance that echoes the existing landscape.

“The concept for the Sunset Lounge came about from the desire to incorporate a large, centrally located area that would unite the two residential towers and would also present an opportunity for residents from both buildings to come together to enjoy the amenity spaces,” explains Klingensmith. The room itself boasts an understated yet luxurious design with the use of natural materials, which were inspired by the natural surroundings of Estero Bay.

With floor-to-ceiling windows, the Sunset Lounge invites expansive views of an outdoor deck overlooking three pools, a lagoon with floating-like pavilions, the Saltleaf Marina, and stunning vistas of Estero Bay. Along with a dreamy visual backdrop, the room presents opportunities for gathering with the ornate bar and a Demonstration Kitchen, “where residents can gather for a cooking class, or where some of Florida’s very best chefs can come in to prepare award-worthy meals.”

Luxury residences are starting to implement gathering<br />
spaces in their buildings to promote routine gatherings<br />
among residents.

Klingensmith expects the Sunset Lounge to be a hit among residents, as it will act as the central gathering space between both towers. The brand’s commitment to providing the epitome of luxury living alongside a sense of community is reflected not only in this room, but in all 36,000 square feet of interior amenities. “Each of these unique spaces is elevated with the brand’s hallmark of providing personalized and high-touch service that makes all the difference to enhancing everyday life.”

The Nexo Residences over in Miami Beach, which is slated to break ground in 2023 with a two-year construction period, is jumping on this trend with a Rooftop Observatory Deck to utilize in the nighttime. It will feature a telescope for stargazing; a summer kitchen with a large grill, mini fridge, and wine cooler; a long dining table for residents to socialize; and cozy seating arrangements around fire pits.

According to the team, the concept behind the Rooftop Observatory Deck is “to offer residents an intimate gathering space that would seamlessly merge indoor and outdoor living, as well as showcase the beautiful Miami skyline.” The location of the building allows access to 360-degree, panoramic views of Miami’s most scenic skylines, including those of Aventura, Sunny Isles, and North Miami. It will provide residents with an opulent yet tranquil space to host gatherings and connect with one another while also promoting an appreciation for the natural landscape.

The integration of outdoor amenities within residences not only offers a sense of community, but also a variety of benefits to your health and well-being. “Humans have an innate desire to want to be close to and surrounded by nature. Studies show that outdoor spaces are essential to everyday life and promote health and happiness. Offering residents outdoor amenities allows people to feel connected to nature while promoting a sense of well-being,” says the team.

October 12, 2023 Comments Off

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Prestige Fall 2023 Issue

with:Unique Homes Staff

Unique Homes is pleased to share that the Fall 2023 issue of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Prestige magazine is out now.

In this issue, readers may explore the trend of homes that come complete with amenities for the ultimate adventurer. Take a journey through Portugal, dive into the wonderful world of yacht clubs, and dig into a new dining phenomenon that is bursting with flavor.

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices invites you to experience these new culinary experiences on pages 42-43, and shows you how you can find this unique cousine. Explore the growing world of living on the water on pages 50-51.

Additionally, take an adventure to Park City and Cape Cod, we focus in on Palm Springs, and find tranquility in Tulum.

As the name suggests, this issue is bursting with Prestige. Take a look today.

October 9, 2023 Comments Off

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