The Cubicle Reimagined

Transformed by technology, world-class design and a pandemic, the workplace has evolved into much more than a warehouse for employees.

Seas of cubicles long believed to be the model of efficiency in the American workplace — a more advanced iteration of the typing pools that preceded them — presented an uninspiring, even dystopian environment for employees. But then, innovative corporations, led by technology and entertainment industry enterprises, pioneered flexible spaces that look more like resorts than offices. Today, designers continue to push the envelope in an era when some employees are still thousands of miles from headquarters.

Gensler is a global architectural firm whose portfolio includes megaprojects like the 127-story Shanghai Tower (China’s tallest) and Fortune 500 corporate headquarters. Natalie Engels, design director and principal at Gensler, reports that the firm’s own survey research prior to the pandemic revealed the workplace simply was not working, and that COVID was a catalyst for long-overdue changes. “Returning to work provided an opportunity to focus on how teams collaborate, and how to create an inclusive experience for all members, whether participating in-person or virtually,” says Engels, who has reshaped workplaces for Amazon, Hewlett-Packard and Adobe.

Engels explains that more flexibility is being incorporated into workplace design, with assigned spaces for individual work, collaborative spaces for teams, quiet deep- focus spaces away from distractions, and engaging environments for socialization all recognized as essential. The corner office still exists, but Gensler increasingly designs for a more inclusive, team-based dynamic, advises Engels, who states, “The human factor — the need to be around other people regardless of role or title — is driving those decisions.”

Among Gensler’s notable workplaces is Silicon Valley’s corporate headquarters for NVIDIA, the high-flying chipmaker leading the artificial intelligence (AI) revolution. Its amenities include diverse dining options, a fitness center and a room for employees to blow off steam with video games powered by NVIDIA’s cutting-edge chips. While technology firms first introduced amenity-rich campuses, Engels notes that food-and-coffee, wellness centers and outdoor spaces are now de rigueur across all industries. While some companies insist on immersing employees in their corporate colors, Engels notes that traditional grays and beiges of workplaces are being replaced by more saturated jewel tones that evoke emotional responses. “Artists from the local community are often commissioned to provide murals or sculptures, which can be quite large, and digital art can create personalized content for specific visitors,” reports Engels.

HOK, another architectural firm with signature projects on multiple continents, has dedicated an entire division to reimagining the office environment. Interior designer Kay Sargent, global director of HOK’s WorkPlace practice, reports, “COVID may have shined a spotlight on it, but the workplace has fundamentally changed over the last decade.” She adds, “It’s no longer a place to sit in one spot all day but a more human- centric environment in which to connect with colleagues.”

Sargent suggests the once-ubiquitous cubicle, which can inhibit productivity, creativity and morale, is disappearing in favor of more fluid seating arrangements. “Not only does the lack of assigned seating maximize real estate, but it also maximizes human efficiency and potential,” explains the veteran interior designer. She adds, “If you’re going to ask workers to return to the office, their leaders have to be there as well, fully accessible and integrated with their staff.” To ensure inviting environments, new workplace designs are laced with elements of hospitality, reports Sargent, who reports the lobbies of some corporate offices are nearly indistinguishable from those of hotels.

If employees are going to be genuinely excited about returning to the office, then the workplace should be as attractive as home. Outdoor spaces, varied culinary offerings, areas accommodating quiet and wellness, and “lifestyle studios” are among the amenities HOK’s recent projects are equipped with, advises Kay Sargent. Even hobbies that employees developed during the pandemic can be enjoyed in the workplace, with commercial kitchens accommodating cooking classes and newly created libraries hosting book clubs. At HOK’s own St. Louis offices, equipment in an architectural modeling studio is now utilized by employees pursuing various crafts adopted while confined to home.

CBRE is an international leader in commercial real estate, and its in-house team of architects and interior designers advise clients on workplace design trends, especially now that employers are requiring workers to return to the office. In the company’s latest U.S. Office Occupier Sentiment Survey, CBRE found that 67 percent of employers indicated they are now more concerned about workplace quality than before the pandemic, with a particular focus on amenities. With commuting top-of-mind, 59 percent of companies favored buildings near public transit, and sustainability issues were particularly important to large corporations with carbon reduction commitments. Sixty-six percent of respondents indicated they were moving away from individual seating assignments toward more flexible spaces that enhance collaboration.

“Workplace design has changed dramatically since the pandemic, and employees have been at the forefront of those changes,” says Karen McCallum, managing director for CBRE’s Design Collective. Insisting the quality of the workplace is a key element in recruiting and retaining top talent, she suggests the office needs to reflect a genuine magnetism. “It has to make you want to get up in the morning, get ready and endure the commute…in other words, working with colleagues in the office needs to be better than home.”

Like her peers, McCallum reports a major shift from assigned to unassigned seating, a concept reflected in CBRE’s “Workplace 360” model for its own offices. “Some level of privacy may be required, but farms of ‘Dilbert cubes’ are generally no longer necessary,” advises McCallum, while noting some private “focus pods” are essential. “It’s really about giving employees a choice about how they desire to work on any given day,” says the designer.

And while many employers have retained plush accommodations for high-ranking executives, McCallum reports, “Some progressive companies have moved toward a transparent, non-hierarchal solution in which executives sit in the same seats as subordinates.” McCallum notes that CBRE clients appreciate open floorplans, which consume less real estate and create more dynamic environments.

“Hospitality-inspired environments, more elevated spaces tailored for employees, create that ‘better than home’ experience,” says CBRE’s McCallum. She states that a wellness room — it can provide an opportunity for yoga, meditation or prayer — has become an almost indispensable feature and savvy employers recognize that once-exotic amenities like specialty juice bars, baristas and pop-up chefs have value. Other designers report that tech- free nap rooms are increasingly common, as evidence suggests short snoozes benefit health and morale, and that there is a legitimate nexus between fitness centers with massage therapy and productivity. Some companies make accommodations for employees who wish to bring their dogs to work.

Technology firms ushered in the amenity- rich workplace but even venerable, old-school companies like Norfolk Southern — with roots in the early 19th century, the railway is hardly a cutting-edge startup — showcase unconventional offices. HOK equipped the corporation’s Atlanta headquarters with a food hall offering eclectic cuisines, daycare center and game room. A focal point of the sleek aesthetics is a sculptural staircase that evokes the very essence of the brand: movement. HOK’s Kay Sargent reports, “Spaces should be a reflection of the culture, representing the brand and connecting people to the mission,” and notes that in addition to the stairway, the graphics at Norfolk Southern headquarters also convey a sense of motion.

With technology clients like PayPal, Dropbox and GitHub, Rapt Studio has developed a reputation for creative office spaces that reflect their clients’ corporate cultures. At the Southern California headquarters of Vans, the sneaker company famous for its iconic checkerboard slip-on, Rapt created a laid-back environment consistent with its ethos, complete with street art and an amenity package that includes a studio for recording music. Skateboarding, integral to the company’s heritage, is an accepted mode of transportation throughout headquarters.

Gensler’s Natalie Engels offers an aspirational characterization of the emerging workplace: “The future of work must be a destination rather than an obligation, and create opportunities for engagement, interaction and fun.”

April 18, 2024 Leave a comment

Beyond Fish and Chips

with:Roger Grody

Once lamented, even ridiculed, for its uninspired gastronomy, the culinary landscape in the British Isles has dramatically evolved.

The Brits have long been the butt of jokes about their inadequate cooking skills, despite their proximity to the renowned gastronomy of France, across the English Channel. The portrayal of the British being capable of turning out nothing more compelling than fish-and-chips or shepherd’s pie was never entirely fair. But with Michelin stars multiplying in London and popping up across the countryside, that stereotype is now history.

Susan Low, an American-born journalist now based in London, is a food writer and restaurant critic whose work has appeared in The Good Food Guide, The Independent, Time Out, and the BBC Food website. “Britain was the first country to industrialize, and the repercussions from that are still being felt,” says Low, who cites symptoms of intensive farming methods and ultra-processed foods. “Yet it must be remembered that Britain has always produced some very fine foods, from pasture-fed beef and lamb to great cheeses,” she says.

Low suggests two catalysts contributed to what we refer to as the British culinary renaissance: affordable international travel and the media. “In the 1990s, ordinary people began to travel abroad more as low-cost travel grew,” she says, suggesting regular visits to places like Tuscany and Provence exposed Brits to lifestyles centered around good eating. Regarding the media, Low says, “Restaurant criticism, wine writing, recipe columns, and food-centered travel journalism burgeoned, helping to fuel interest in eating out and cooking at home.” She adds, “Soon, competitive cooking programs took over the airwaves and ‘celebrity chefs’ became dinner party topics.”

Americans should recognize the renaissance occurring in British cooking, because it already happened here. Forty years ago, the U.S. was also viewed as a culinary desert, where steak-and-potatoes or overcooked fish constituted special occasion fare. It took a new generation of chefs — revolutionaries like Alice Waters, Jonathan Waxman and Jeremiah Tower — to shape what was first referred to as California Cuisine. That eventually morphed into New American cooking, showcasing local seasonal ingredients and an appreciation for classic French technique. Now world-class food is found not only in New York and San Francisco, but places like Cleveland and Portland as well.

In the 1980s, visitors may have adored London for its royal landmarks, sense of history and charming pubs, but serious diners quietly scoffed at the city’s culinary resources. Even Michel Roux, Jr., owner of the city’s venerable Le Gavroche (the first UK restaurant to earn a Michelin star), acknowledged that tourists would revel in the changing of the guards at Buckingham Palace, take in a show and then flee to more promising dining cities.

As London emerged as the world’s dominant financial capital in the 21st century — a status that has arguably been compromised by Brexit — the city began attracting more high-end chefs. As the prices of luxury real estate in the city surpassed Beverly Hills or Manhattan, so too did demand for sophisticated cuisine. It was this environment that created rock stars out of local chefs and propelled some to international celebrity status.

There are currently 74 Michelin-starred restaurants in London alone, which includes five kitchens attaining the ultimate honor of three stars. Local heavyweights Gordon Ramsay and Heston Blumenthal are household names far beyond the British Isles, while French icons Alain Ducasse and Hélène Darroze have jumped the Channel to earn a loyal following in a city once dismissed by haughty Parisians. Surprisingly, almost two- thirds of the 188 UK restaurants with at least one Michelin star are outside of London.

Anybody with a streaming service and a weakness for reality television has probably come across the BBC production of Great British Menu, which presents the creativity and technical proficiency of young chefs from throughout England, Scotland, Northern Ireland, and Wales. Culinary experts, even devoted Francophiles, now concede the gastronomic gap between Paris and New York has contracted, and the same can be said of the once-enormous disparity of culinary talent between Paris and London (despite their proximity). Furthermore, Dublin, Edinburgh and Manchester are experiencing their own dining renaissances, just as Philadelphia, Atlanta and Houston have.

The Lanesborough in London is a neoclassical luxury hotel sharing rarefied credentials with Le Bristol in Paris, Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc on the Riviera and other palatial properties of the Oetker Collection. There, acclaimed British chef Shay Cooper offers a modern interpretation of British cuisine at The Lanesborough Grill, the new restaurant occupying one of the most elegant, art-laden dining rooms in the city. Cooper’s seasonal menu honors artisanal producers in updated presentations of iconic British classics such as beef Wellington.

“Our style of food is rooted in tradition, with familiar and comforting themes at heart, all the dishes carefully considered to give them appeal yet presented in an elegant and contemporary way,” says Cooper. Cooking at one of the city’s most prestigious hotels, surrounded by royal palaces, Cooper is conscious of balancing progressive cooking with the expectations of clients who appreciate a luxurious experience steeped in tradition. Lauding the abundance of world-class ingredients from throughout Great Britain, Cooper reports, “The Lanesborough Grill showcases all of this, such as Wye Valley asparagus, Lindisfarne oysters, Welsh lamb from the Rhug Estate, and incredible cheeses from Cornwall, Devon and Northern Ireland which change on a seasonal basis.”

At London’s Apricity, chef/owner Chantelle Nicholson is committed to local sourcing and sustainability, using only produce at the height of its season from small- scale farmers, along with foraged ingredients. Nicholson’s menus celebrate British vegetables, regeneratively ranched meats and sustainably caught seafood from across the British Isles. The wine list, championing English vineyards and winemakers, represents producers dedicated to biodiversity and natural production.

While the London dining scene naturally receives the most attention, the British culinary renaissance extends deep into the countryside, and the recently released 2023 Michelin Guide for Great Britain & Ireland revealed 20 new one-star and three new two-star establishments. Gwendal Poullennec, international director of the Michelin Guides, commented on the bushel of new stars: “In every region of Great Britain and Ireland, you can now find hugely talented chefs calling out to gourmets with their exquisite and accomplished cuisine.”

Retaining their stars in 2023 are a pair of restaurants outside Liverpool — Michelin two-star Moor Hall and neighboring one-star The Barn — that showcase modern British cuisine. Chef Mark Birchall, who celebrates the bounty of Britain, states, “Our inspiration comes from our natural setting — our garden, the farms we’re surrounded by and the artisans who produce everything, from our tableware to rearing the cows for our milk.” The chef adds, “Earlier in my career I thought it was all about expensive produce from overseas. I’m sure Sicilian tomatoes are the best, but maybe not after traveling 1,300 miles!”

Just as the American food revolution was partially driven by cultural diversity — newly discovered ingredients from ethnic markets in various Asian and Latino communities has transformed the cuisine in major cities — so too has immigration influenced British cuisine. Curry houses now outnumber fish-and-chip shops in London and, thanks to the nation’s large Indian community, chicken tikka masala (an anglicized creation) is now often regarded as the British national dish.

“It’s impossible to overestimate the positive contribution made by a more diverse food culture in Britain,” says food writer Susan Low. “In cities such as London, Bristol and Birmingham, the adventurous can enjoy cuisines from countries around the globe, and the cross-pollination of ideas, along with a growing respect for diversity, is a main driver of the current food scene.” As an example, Low cites London-based JKS Restaurants, operated by three siblings with South Asian heritage. “Their restaurants, such as Hoppers, Bao and Gymkhana, have done so much to promote and popularize a more diverse approach,” she reports.

April 11, 2024 Leave a comment

Loraloma’s Country Music-Inspired Amenities Set the Stage for Luxury Living

with:Unique Homes Staff

While fans of country music eagerly anticipate the CMT awards on April 7th, this is the perfect opportunity to explore Loraloma – a community that’s not afraid to embrace its country roots.

As the curtains rise on the newest gem in luxury real estate, Loraloma emerges not just as a residential paradise but as a symphony of sights, sounds, and sensations. Nestled just outside the vibrant life of Austin, Texas – a hub of live music, especially country – Loraloma isn’t just a place to reside; it’s a lifestyle where music intertwines with every aspect of daily life. And Unique Homes is taking you on a tour of this harmonious haven.

Loraloma's Country Music-Inspired Amenities

Loraloma will be anchored by an 18-hole championship golf course designed by the celebrated Scottish architect David McLay-Kidd of DMK Golf Designs, who has crafted famed courses such as Bandon Dunes and the Castle Course at St. Andrews. The course at Loraloma serves as McLay-Kidd’s first-ever in Texas, and will stay true to his low-impact, sustainable approach which brings the innate beauty of the land to the forefront.

At the heart of Loraloma’s allure lies its unwavering dedication to music, an ode to the soul-stirring melodies that define Austin’s history. The developers understand that music isn’t just an accompaniment; it’s a way of life. That’s why they’ve curated a variety of music-driven amenities that seamlessly blend high-end living with the rhythm of the city.

Begin by stepping into Loraloma’s state-of-the-art recording studio, nestled in the heart of the community at Limestone Gulch and inspired by the legendary Blackbird Studios in Nashville. With cutting-edge audio technology, writer’s rooms brimming with inspiration, and a listening lounge where melodies come alive, creativity knows no bounds within these walls.

“As a project developed and delivered by designers, Loraloma is telling a new story of luxury. At Loraloma, our future residents are making more than a purchase—they’re choosing an uncompromised way of living. The architects and land planners of Areté are delivering timeless, ecologically sensitive designs that celebrate the natural beauty of the Hill Country and channel the cultural allure of Austin.”

Rebecca Buchan

Co-Founder & CEO, Areté Collective

But the music doesn’t stop there. Venture further, and you’ll find yourself ensconced in the embrace of nature at the private amphitheater, that is practically a part of the natural hillside. Here, under the starlit Texas sky, residents will have easy access to Austin’s thriving music and theater scene.

For those who prefer to feel the rhythm beneath their feet, Loraloma’s Tap House is a vibrant ode to local culture. Here, amidst the strum of guitars, homeowners and members can two-step with friends, savor local brews, and immerse themselves in the nostalgia of vintage arcades.

And let’s not forget the Dance Hall – a homage to Austin’s rich musical heritage and a testament to the memory-making magic of classic Texas dance halls. Whether it’s the lively Texas swing on weekends or the graceful Texas waltz on weeknights, residents need only step outside their door to immerse themselves.

But what truly sets Loraloma apart isn’t just its amenities; it’s the sense of community woven throughout. Seasoned instructors stand ready to guide residents on a journey of self-expression and Texas-sized fun, ensuring that the spirit of music lives on in every dance move and every note played.

April 4, 2024 Leave a comment

Unique Homes Spring 2024 Issue

with:Jackie Elliott

As devoted narrators of the extraordinary, the Unique Homes Spring 2024 Issue goes beyond the confines of traditional real estate, captivating our worldwide readership with a look inside some of the most amazing properties on the market and unique insights into the realm of luxury living.

In this edition of Unique Homes magazine, we present to our readers a distinguished roster of Elite Agents, showcasing their unparalleled expertise and influence in luxury real estate.

Exploring the timeless allure of gold in “All Things Gold,” we are honored to share Lauren Harwell Godfrey’s magnificent gold jewelry collection, and luxury lighting trends that prove this element never goes out of style.

As we contemplate the intersection of luxury and artificial intelligence, Camilla MclLaughlin ponders the potential impact of the technology on the real estate landscape and elite agents in “Luxury: Meet AI.”

Embark on a journey through the iconic city that never sleeps in “Urban Opulence in New York,” as we explore the most lavish residences and what’s new.

Luxury undergoes a transformative redefinition this spring, and we welcome you to explore it in our latest issue.

April 2, 2024 Leave a comment

The Line

with:Marlene Ridgway

A sleek reflective facade against the gorgeous Saudi Arabian landscape is only the beginning of this futurist urban development that could change city living forever.

THE LINE claims it will be a truly revolutionary metropolis that’s capable of housing 9 million people while only taking up a mere 34 square kilometers. Built with sustainability, new technology, and happier living in mind, this city would differ in more than just looks. Without roads or cars, there would be zero carbon emissions and the community would run on 100% renewable energy, meaning the structure would not only take up less physical space, but also have a significantly reduced environmental footprint.

This masterwork of design would address several of the challenges that cities present, such as lack of outdoor space, overcrowding, and congested traffic, and offer a more comfortable alternative. By dramatically changing urban planning, project leaders hope to put people first, which would alter the way civilization functions as a whole. The vertically layered communities would challenge the traditional flat, horizontal designs and create a model for nature preservation and enhanced livability, according to team members working on the new city.

Still a sprawling metropolis, THE LINE would only be 200 meters wide and 170 kilometers long. However, everything residents need to live, work, and play will be easily within reach. NEOM, the company responsible for THE LINE, is working to address some of the confines and struggles of city living, as well as the environmental effects of a sprawling metropolis.

With imaginative projects and ideas, the city would limit pollution and encourage a happier way of life. For example, a short five-minute walk would meet everyday needs, while an end-to- end trip of THE LINE would take only 20 minutes. A high-speed rail service would also reduce wait times, commutes, and carbon emissions, already eliminating some of the significant difficulties of city life. The secret to this vertical design is the three-dimensional neighborhoods that are compact and walkable.

NEOM is made up of talented architects, engineers, and construction experts that
are pushing boundaries to make the idea of building upward a reality that makes sense, according to project organizers. Project engineers and architects carefully chose the location for THE LINE, which plans to have unforgettable views and a year-round moderate climate that would also encourage a stronger connection to nature. In addition, THE LINE would thrive in the heart of influential trade routes and a staggering 40 percent of the world is accessible from this point within six hours or less, making it a travel hub for residents and tourists alike.

THE LINE is just one of the projects that NEOM would build to revolutionize the idea of sustainable living. NEOM is 26,500 square kilometers of space in northwest Saudi Arabia across four distinct regions from the coastline to the mountains. The unique location would house four ambitious projects, two cities — THE LINE and Oxagon — and two destinations. Sindalah would be the beautiful island destination, while Trojena is planned to reside among the mountains. These revolutionary projects would utilize the most advanced technology while furthering sustainable practices. Oxagon, for example, would be a marriage of living and innovation where people can come to build, develop, and grow new companies, products, and services. According to the leaders of the economic engine, NEOM will be a place for people near and far to make their impression on the world in creative and innovative ways, and THE LINE only marks the beginning.

March 15, 2024 Leave a comment

Fashion Beyond the Runway

with:Roger Grody

To casual observers, fashion trends are shaped by iconic designers, glossy magazine covers and social media posts by celebrities. But in truth, a myriad of forces are at play.

The fashion industry has always been fiercely competitive, but in a complex cocktail of design, technology and politics, the length of skirts or widths of ties no longer define what is in style. Consumers, armed with vast new resources, are finding inspiration beyond the latest collections of the designer boutiques lining Fifth Avenue or Rodeo Drive. The fashion industry, constantly evolving, has been democratized and digitized.

“My clients are high-achieving women,” notes personal stylist Hanna Lee, who reports corporate CEOs, attorneys, physicians, and entrepreneurs, as well as occasional celebrities, seek out the personal styling and shopping services of her Chicago-based Hanna Lee Style. Despite being thousands of miles from Paris or Milan, Lee is well positioned to observe trends on the front lines of the fashion industry. “With people now returning to the office, they’re discovering their wardrobes need attention,” reports Lee of current demand for her services. She adds, “People became accustomed to Zoom meetings during the pandemic, so now they’re comfortable having me conduct style consultations that way.”

Among the major trends cited by Hanna Lee is the growing interest in conscientious apparel. Not only are sustainable materials like hemp, bamboo linen and organic cotton in demand, but consumers are seeking ethically produced clothing. Brands are expected to provide safe and humane working conditions, offer living wages and invest in housing or health care in their workers’ communities. To accommodate interest in sustainable products, Lee’s website promotes fashion labels — representing various price points — that appeal to clients with those sensibilities.

The global ethical fashion market, valued at $8.17 billion in 2023, is expected to grow to $11.12 billion by 2027, with many iconic brands among the prominent players. “Who says sustainability can’t be sexy?” asked designer Stella McCartney of her eco-friendly BioSequin jumpsuit featured on the April 2023 cover of Vogue, worn by model and environmental activist Cara Delevingne. Good On You, a website promoting ethical fashion, provides a handy mobile app for shoppers, which rates every imaginable brand on their efforts and provides favorably rated alternatives to underperforming labels.

Regarded as “deadstock” in the fashion industry, overstocks, ends of bales and offcuts are typically discarded, even burned. But UK-based Bee & Alpaca puts some of the industry’s estimated $120 billion of annual waste to good use, creating stylish, sustainable clothing. Founder and CEO Deniz Dincer states, “It seems trivial to label fabric as deadstock, waste or excess. Instead, Bee & Alpaca upcycles these into exclusive and limited-run clothing lines.”

Closely related to sustainability, secondhand clothing is another macro-trend in the fashion industry, no longer reserved for college students, struggling artists or single moms on a budget. “Initially, I was reluctant to ask clients if they were open to secondhand … would they feel it was beneath them?” recounts personal stylist Lee, who has been wearing timeless pieces from her grandmother for years. “But when I mention it, people love the idea, as it’s great in terms of both value and the environment,” reports the stylist, who is a fan of Poshmark, thredUP and Chicago-based North Shore Exchange, which donates 100 percent of profits to local charities.

Occupying the intersection of technology, social media and secondhand merchandise is Poshmark. The company’s online platform connects sellers of new or good-condition luxury merchandise — names like Hermès, Fendi and Prada are among the nearly 10,000 brands represented — to interested buyers. More than 100 million users prefer Poshmark to the traditional shopping experience, avoiding the steep prices and pretenses of luxury designer boutiques. “Consumers are looking for a marketplace where they can sell and shop, in addition to having social experiences — this is what sets us apart and draws people to Poshmark, explains Chelsey Nordyke, the company’s merchandising and curation manager. “Our customers are looking for value and as inflation continues to be top of mind for many, shopping secondhand allows them to find a wide variety of items at more affordable prices,” she says.

Identifying current trends, Nordyke reports, “We’re seeing bags take off on Poshmark, specifically ones that lean into the ‘quiet luxury’ trend,” noting that Louis Vuitton, Gucci and Chanel are labels that consistently perform well. “These classic bags are the epitome of quiet luxury,” says the e-commerce executive of an aesthetic Vogue called the year’s hottest trend, explaining the items feature neutral palettes while forgoing conspicuous logos. “Consumers are choosing minimalist luxury pieces that embody the status symbol, but without the blatant call for attention,” says Nordyke. Lee suggests the quiet luxury trend emerged several years ago, but that celebrity social media posts have made it suddenly au courant. “The Row is a quiet luxury brand with very timeless pieces and incredibly high-quality fabrication,” she states.

“The typical Poshmark buyer is sustainability- and value-focused,” reports Nordyke, explaining that Gen Z consumers, in particular, are normalizing thrifting as an accepted means of updating wardrobes. “We’re constantly looking for ways to bring sustainability to the forefront of users’ minds and highlight companies that focus on ethical production and fair trade,” says Nordyke. She reports that virtual, sustainability-themed Posh Parties showcase brands (e.g., Patagonia, Cuyana, Veja) that employ eco-friendly materials and responsible production practices.

Pantone — the New Jersey-based company is the world’s preeminent authority on color in all industries — works with fashion designers and fabric suppliers to ensure accuracy of colors. Every year the company designates its “Color of the Year,” and for 2023 that honor went to Viva Magenta 18-1750, a bold, Barbie esque shade described by Pantone as “brave and fearless, whose exuberance promotes a joyous and optimistic celebration.” Reflecting the company’s particularly emotive characterizations of color, Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute, states, “Invoking the forces of nature, Pantone 18-1750 Viva Magenta galvanizes our spirit, helping us to build our inner strength.” In Chicago, Lee reports, “I feel like people are wanting more colors and patterns than before.”

While consumers learned to shop exclusively online during the pandemic, Lee finds that the pendulum may be swinging back. “It’s still very difficult to accurately size online, and there’s nothing like the touch and feel of clothing,” she says. “People have also started to crave the in-person experience,” adds the stylist. Nevertheless, technology is a powerful force shaping the fashion industry and one tech-driven trend is the emergence of the metaverse as a very real place for brands to market their wares. While most shoppers are still clueless about the metaverse, the increasingly realistic digital environments offered by platforms like Roblox and Decentraland are relevant to younger Gen Z buyers. Prada, Burberry and Ralph Lauren are just a few of the hundreds of brands with a presence in these virtual worlds. Major labels of every price point are realizing that significant investments in the metaverse will pay dividends by capturing the attention of a new generation of consumers.

Chicago-based stylist Hanna Lee in a dress from online platform thredUP.

Artificial intelligence (AI) is another technology development that can highly personalize the shopping experience. At Sephora, a facial scan can instantly identify the best makeup color for a particular customer, while Rebecca Minkoff boutiques are exploring AI to enhance the touchscreen smart mirrors they pioneered almost a decade ago. RFID technology can record what items a particular customer tries on, and smart mirrors can suggest alternative colors and sizes.

Designers, marketers and logistics specialists are joining retailers in their embrace of AI in the fashion industry. In partnership with AI creative specialists Maison Meta, Manhattan’s Spring Studios — the SoHo facility annually hosts iconic designers like Calvin Klein and Diane von Furstenberg — recently presented the first-ever AI Fashion Week. Its catwalks were transformed into high-definition screens and avatars stood in for supermodels to showcase AI-generated collections from emerging designers.

March 6, 2024 Leave a comment

A New Lease on Luxury

with:Lara Becker

At a luxury farm resort, you can rest your head only a few feet from nestling lambs, apple orchards, or dairy cows.

A new kind of vacation trend is sweeping the nation. Seekers of serenity and seclusion are finding it in the pasture, experiencing the tranquility of being tucked away with only the birds to sing them awake. But they’re not roughing it.

Farm resorts are located in rolling hills throughout the country — The High End spoke to three owners in Virginia, Montana, and California. All three are family-owned businesses with powerful histories and a love for the outdoors. “Guests are always wondering ‘What is farming really like?’” says Erin Cowden, owner at Fort Lewis Lodge in Millboro, Virginia. “We are a true working, family farm and consider ourselves stewards of this land.”

The Cowdens have run this operation for decades: Erin says that the farm was first carved out of the wilderness in 1754, and was purchased by their family in 1959. In 1989, they extended the farm into the farm stay that it is now. Three generations of their family have farmed this land, and it continues to be a labor of love.

Fort Lewis Lodge now offers 23 different accommodations, including lodges, silos, and hand-hewn log cabins. There are plenty of ways for guests to join in the collaboration on the farm, but also to rest and relax if desired. Additionally, they are conscious of their carbon footprint, and aim to teach guests about the ways in which they can be more green.

“Our vision: a regenerative farming mindset. We want to return carbon and other missing elements to the soil, support biological diversity, restore a natural, self- supporting system, and produce sustainable, nutritious, and tasty food,” Cowden says. “It’s our hope that guests walk away with a better understanding of where their food comes from.”

They have farm-to-table dining with fresh ingredients, and their own natural mountain spring that provides all of the water for the Lodge. Other unique opportunities are their wood-fired sauna, and the fruits of their fragrant peach trees in late August.

Whatever the garden is growing, they are serving, Cowden notes.

With the same love for their garden, ABC Acres, owned by Tim Southwell and family, operates in Hamilton, Montana. Tim and wife Sarah took the reins of the 80-acre property in 2011, and are seeing business booming as people aim to get outside more.

“The pandemic awakened a misplaced love and appreciation for the natural world,” Southwell recalls, as he talks about the luxury lodging trend. “A farm stay is a slower-paced break from the everyday, where one can take in the sunrise, enjoy a meditative walk in deep thought, and witness the magic and unpredictability only nature can provide.”

On its website, the property titles itself an immersive permaculture preserve, which can be seen through the blooming bananas, pineapples, guavas and more. ABC Acres also runs its own “Honey Operation” and other earthwork tasks.

Here there are also opportunities to join in on farm tasks, or to sit back and relax. Located in the beautiful Bitterroot Valley of Montana, the four rental homes for visitors are located near transcendent walking trails and a fully stocked farm shop. Guests can help herd goats and collect chicken eggs, take a day trip on the water to Lake Como, or explore the property’s own Botanical Tropical Greenhouse.

“A farm stay is the vacation,” he notes. “No trips to town or lines for dinner or the local show, just an opportunity to arrive, settle in, and take in the surroundings.”

Another place known for its gorgeous location is temperate Mendocino County, California. Located along the Navarro River and entrenched in robust orchards, Philo Apple Farm is owned by Karen and Tim Bates, who have raised 4 children as skilled farm hands.

The property has three quaint cottages and one “room with a view” (a room above the main dining area) for guests to stay in. Here, the primary production is jams and jellies, but Karen explains that instead of joining in on tasks on the farm, the goal of most guests here is to sit back and simply “do nothing.”

“I think it’s a really good way to experience a place, on a different level than a hotel or even a bed and breakfast,” she says of farm stays. The best time to travel to the Philo Apple Farm is usually the summertime, when the river is glistening in the sun, and is ready for swimmers.

In the cottages, guests can enjoy their own private plunge pools and outdoor showers, morning coffee on their porches, and stroll around the picturesque orchards.

Bates tells The High End that the property also serves as their family compound, where they’re currently working on building a home for one of their daughters and husband. The matriarch of the farm, Sally Schmidt, even has her own cookbook, which has been endorsed by numerous chefs, including the head chef at The French Laundry.

The ultimate goal of any farm stay, and each of these owners, is for guests to reconnect with the natural wonders around them.

“Nature is never dull,” Southwell says. “Whether it’s the first spring rain, baby animals, evening owls, amazing summer storms, or the quietness of winter … there is always something alive and happening … you just need to slow down and look.”

February 29, 2024 Leave a comment

Frozen Desert

with:Marlene Ridgway

Echo was inspired by astronauts and space travel, and is now a dream destination for polar travelers who want to experience the real Antarctica in comfort and style.

Antarctica has never been more luxurious. Echo, a camp for travelers that is often compared to being off-planet, is made up of futuristic-looking Sky Pods settled in the coldest, most secluded place in the world.

“When Buzz Aldrin visited us many years ago, it’s said he looked out to the snow-covered expanse and told our founder that the continent reminded him of the moon,” says Mindy Roberts, the chief marketing officer at White Desert Antarctica. This conversation sparked the idea that would eventually become Echo.

Appearing as if the whole camp dropped out of the sky, the location offers several pod- like buildings, is equipped with its own private runway, and is only about a five-hour flight from Cape Town. Travel depends on the intense weather patterns common on the continent, but a stay at Echo brings you comfort in the heart of this breathtaking destination. “Each pod is warm, cozy, and inviting with luxurious furnishings and relaxing interiors,” says Roberts. The camp was originally constructed entirely in Cape Town, tested, and reassembled at the final destination hours away to ensure that it could withstand the severe weather conditions. In addition, the Sky Pods are constructed and then removed without a trace at the start and end of every season because they do not operate all year.

Despite the many comforts, guests have easy access to exclusive, intense activities specific to the area. Ice climbing, Arctic truck safaris, Ski-Doo tours, and the chance to see 14,000 Emperor penguins are just a few of the excursions to partake in. The sounds and sights of these beautiful creatures, along with the stunning landscape and unforgettable atmosphere, are truly once-in-a-lifetime.

Many guests are enamored by the hikes that have been tailored to their fitness abilities, or they opt for more strenuous adventures that require more skills. Abseiling with a mountain guide is available, or guests can make the same historic trek that some original explorers made on the Explorer’s Traverse. “From a walk around a frozen lake to summiting a nunatak, there is something for everyone. Beyond the highlights of the Emperor Penguins and the South Pole, I think the most awe-inspiring thing is just being in this incredibly rare silence and unique landscape,” adds Roberts.

Yet, you do not necessarily need to brave the wild, frozen tundra to gain an authentic experience. The Sky Pods and, “the communal spaces, including the dining area and lounge area are comfortable places to sit and chat, curl up with a book, or come together as a group
to discuss the experiences of your day,” says Roberts. The comforts are so complete, that “you could almost forget you’re in Antarctica until you see the incredible views of the mountains bathed in sunlight from the pods.”

White Desert was founded in 2005 by polar explorers after realizing that the real, genuine Antarctica experience was unavailable for most travelers. Now, everything from the interiors of the Sky Pods, with retro space-age detailing and luxurious furnishings, to the artwork and food are part of the camp’s allure and a testament to the land.

February 26, 2024 Comments Off

Orange is the new Rosé

with:Roger Grody

If the wine you’re presented possesses a rusty, amber hue instead of pink, it’s not the flattering lighting. Rather, your trend-conscious host has selected a bottle of fashionable orange wine.

Rosé wines, a favorite summertime import from Provence, are now ubiquitous, mass-produced from Australia to California for a growing market of wine drinkers looking for something refreshing, but more memorable than a standard Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc. Now, orange wines — they have been produced for millennia, but are just now entering the consciousness of American wine lovers — are occupying entire sections of wine lists.

Orange wines, also known as skin-contact wines, are the result of winemakers leaving skins in the juice during the fermentation process of white grapes, which creates golden, rusty hues that often appear orange in a glass. Orange wines differ from rosés, which are produced from red grapes whose skin imparts a warm blush. In general, orange wines are more textured than whites, with pleasant acidity and modest to moderate tannins.

Tracey Rogers, co-founder and winemaker at<br />
pioneering orange wine producer Donkey &<br />
Goat; a bottle of her Stone Crusher, made from<br />
Roussanne grapes.

Several trends are contributing to the drink emergence of orange wines, including the increasing popularity of rosés, accelerated imports from Eastern European nations such as Slovenia, Croatia and Georgia, and a preference among consumers for naturally produced wine. The geographic diversity of orange wines is impressive. Recommended wines cited in a recent Wine Enthusiast article included vintages from Portugal, Austria, Australia, South Africa, California, and Washington.

In California, young winemakers dedicated to creating natural products are increasingly experimenting with orange wines, which have traditionally been made with no preservatives or other additives. After learning the art of crafting natural wines from pioneering French winemaker Éric Texier in the Rhône Valley, Jared Brandt and Tracey Rogers founded Donkey & Goat in 2004, the first natural winery in Berkeley. Others have followed, coalescing around Donkey & Goat to make a small section of Berkeley a hub of California’s natural wine industry.

Sam Bogue, beverage director at Flour + Water<br />
Hospitality Group, with an orange wine that he<br />
believes pairs well with pasta dishes such as<br />
Penny Roma’s cacio e pepe.

Because of the winery’s dedication to natural production, Donkey & Goat has been a leader in the California orange wine movement, currently offering a skin-contact Grenache Blanc from vineyards in El Dorado County and a Pinot Gris from Anderson Valley grapes. Donkey & Goat’s 2019 Stone Crusher is made from skin-fermented Roussanne, a Rhône Valley varietal gaining a foothold in California, and features stone fruit notes while exhibiting an appealing golden hue.

“Younger wine drinkers tend to gravitate toward natural wine and if your starting point is natural wine, it won’t take long before you hear about orange wines,” says Rogers, who herself appreciates the versatility of these products. Noting that their textural and aromatic qualities can vary greatly, the winemaker reports, “In very general terms, skin contact wines can hold up to more heat, such as Thai cooking, than traditional direct-press wines.”

The tourism bureau in Sonoma County has recognized that orange wine is having its moment, and its website provides a guide to local wineries specializing in skin-contact products. The selection ranges from major producers such as DeLoach Vineyards and Pellegrini to boutique operations like Joseph Jewell Wines and Two Shepherds. The trend is also gaining traction in Oregon’s Willamette Valley wine region.

Sam Bogue serves as beverage director for Flour + Water Hospitality Group, where the culinary talents of co-chefs Thomas McNaughton and Ryan Pollnow draw diners to San Francisco restaurants Flour + Water, Penny Roma and Flour + Water Pasta Shop. Bogue appreciates the synergies between orange wines and pasta dishes. “They have the acidity of white wines, but with enough tannins to hold up to richer sauces or proteins,” says the experienced sommelier. Noting that grape skins act as a natural preservative, appealing to environmentally conscious consumers, Bogue adds, “These wines represent what younger wine drinkers are trying to get into their glasses these days.”

Bogue has been developing Pasta Water wine, a collaboration between Flour + Water Hospitality Group and Subject to Change Wine Co., which specializes in orange-hued skin-contact wines. The Richmond, California-based winery has proven successful in producing natural wines to scale, says Bogue, who reports that Pasta Water (released this spring) is created from Malvasia Bianca grapes, an aromatic Mediterranean varietal. In addition to their ability to pair well with Flour + Water’s signature pasta dishes,

Bogue notes that orange wines tend to be refreshingly unpretentious. “With Pasta Water, we’re trying to make a wine you don’t need to overthink, trying to make the world of wine a bit more playful.”

Subject to Change Wine Co. was founded in 2017 by Alex Pomerantz, intent on establishing a winery dedicated to the production of natural wines. “I observed how much natural wine consumed here in California was actually imported wine,” says the winemaker, who adds, “We didn’t have a terroir problem, but more of a wine philosophy problem.”

In addition to Pasta Water, which is one of four private labels, Subject to Change’s playful lineup of orange wine includes Disco! and Pet Nap, both made from Mendocino County Sauvignon Blanc. Pomerantz believes Rhône Valley varietals are well suited for orange wine production, and his Unsung Hero is crafted from a blend of Marsanne, Roussanne and Viognier. “Orange wines are the red wine drinker’s white wine,” suggests Pomerantz, who explains, “They have the flavor profile of white wine, but the texture of red.”

Subject to Change’s winemaker advises that while orange wines have ancient origins, they remain a commercial novelty in the U.S. and demand is still accelerating. “We’re confident the category will continue to expand, and we genuinely love making and drinking these wines,” says Pomerantz.

February 24, 2024 Comments Off

Cinnamon Shore Unveils Texas-Sized Fun

with:Unique Homes Staff

Hold onto your sun hats because this walkable beach community is taking your coastal dreams to a whole new level with big upgrades.

Port Aransas, Texas, commonly known among locals as Port A, was a quiet fishing town not too long ago. However, with the introduction of a pedestrian-friendly vacation home community and much more, the area’s full potential has been recognized. With 18 miles of uninterrupted wide beachfront on Mustang Island and a carefully curated master-planned community that respects the environment and encourages a small-town feel, Cinnamon Shore is a no-brainer for buyers seeking luxury primary and secondary real estate.

As the community continues to expand, plans for a vibrant town square, sports courts, spa facilities, and a dog park are all coming to the heart of Cinnamon Shore South. Many of these projects are already underway or breaking ground this summer.

Jodi Peters, the managing broker at Cinnamon Shore Realty, shares, “We’re thrilled to deliver new luxury resort amenities that we promised our residents and guests from the start.” From pickleball courts to fire lounges, Cinnamon Shore South is shaping up to be the go-to spot for those who crave both relaxation and recreation.

What to expect:
Playtime Sports Courts: Get ready for some serious pickleball action, half-court basketball, and a shaded viewing area. And for the little ones, there’s a grassy space for lounging and time in the fresh air.

Neighborly Square Pool: Shaded, private, and oh-so-chic. This pool has it all – tropical landscaping, an over-the-pool water walkway, a fire pit, lounge chairs in the shallow end, and a palm-shaded area for hammocks. It’s the perfect spot to sip your favorite drink and soak up the sun.

New Event Venue: For celebrations, reunions, business meetings, and more, Cinnamon Shore’s got you covered. The new event venue is a landscaped beauty designed for indoor-outdoor gatherings that will accommodate a range of guests.

Another Neighborhood Pool with Fitness Center: Why settle for one when you can have two? Surrounded by pergolas, palms, and residential cottages, this pool is your new fitness and relaxation haven.

South Dog Park: For your four-legged friends, Cinnamon Shore is introducing the South Dog Park.

Tailwind Park: A lush garden oasis for homeowners and guests to breathe, relax, and play. With firepits, pebbled paths, and shaded areas, it’s the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle.

Still, there’s more! The South Town Square, a project by the award-winning Kimmel Studio Architects, is set to break ground in 2024. With waterfront expertise and a vision for a vibrant coastal gathering spot, it will be the heart of the community.

Whether you’re a current homeowner or dreaming of a Texas-sized slice of paradise, Cinnamon Shore checks all the boxes. Visit the Cinnamon Shore’s blog for the inside scoop on this family-friendly community.

December 29, 2023 Comments Off