Sophisticated Spectra

Les Jardins d’Etretat: A Historic Restoration by Alexander Grivko

June 22, 2023 in Travel & Destinations by Charlotte Sinclair

Les Jardins d’Etretat is a remarkable garden nestled in the town of Étretat, Normandy. It was lovingly restored in 2016, on the site of the existing garden of the Villa Roxelane, which dates back to 1905. This restoration, covering an area of 1.5 hectares, was achieved in record time, less than a year and a half. The park's design was inspired by the first French oyster farm of Marie-Antoinette, located at the foot of the Étretat garden in the waters of La Manche. Today, Les Jardins d’Etretat is recognized as one of the "Great Gardens of the World".

A Lighthouse Among The Dunes: The Transformation of Rubjerg Knude"

July 7, 2023 in Travel & Destinations by Julian Everett

Rubjerg Knude lighthouse, nestled amidst breathtaking dunes on the northwest coast of Denmark, has been given a new lease on life. The lighthouse suffered significant damage in 1968, with the landscape steadily eroding its structure and visibility over the decades. However, in a recent revitalization project, BESSARDs STUDIO and JAJA Architects have reimagined this historic landmark, transforming it into a breathtaking spectacle.

Prada Group Revamps Historic Italian Café Principe in Forte dei Marmi

July 9, 2023 in Travel & Destinations by Julian Everett

The picturesque Italian resort of Forte dei Marmi welcomes the revitalization of Café Principe, an iconic gathering place dating back to the late 1930s. After extensive restoration by the Prada Group, the café - originally established by the Florentine Galli family - has reopened its doors to locals and tourists alike, offering a stylish refuge inspired by the "dolce vita" era.

Jacquemus's Marseille: A Unique Vacation Guide Curated by the Designer

Aug. 5, 2023 in Travel & Destinations by Julian Everett

Simon Porte Jacquemus, the designer behind the renowned brand Jaсquemus, recently shared a curated list of vacation spots in Marseille on his website. As a native of Salon-de-Provence, a nearby town, Jacquemus knows Marseille like the back of his hand, and his recommendations are far from the usual travel guide fare. Instead, they reveal the places where the locals, the true "Marseillais," like to unwind.

Nolinkski Hotel Opens in Venice's Historic Stock Exchange Building

Aug. 21, 2023 in Travel & Destinations by Charlotte Sinclair

Nestled in the heart of Venice, in the historic stock exchange building erected in 1929, the latest offering from French luxury brand Nolinkski has opened its doors. The building, now a designated historical monument, is reimagined as a hotel radiating the opulence and elegance of a bygone era.

Rome Cavalieri: A Blend of Nostalgic Grandeur and Modern Art

Aug. 23, 2023 in Travel & Destinations by Charlotte Sinclair

Let's chat about the Rome Cavalieri, A Waldorf Astoria Hotel. Once known as the Hilton, this iconic spot might not scream "modern luxury" to every traveler, and its late modernist façade might not make every architecture enthusiast's heart race. But there's one undeniable charm: its breathtaking view of the Eternal City from atop the Monte Mario hill. A throwback to the unapologetic, old-school opulence of the mid-20th century, it's a trip down luxury lane.

Cinegramas (1934-1936): A Glimpse into the Silver Age of Cinema Through Its Cover Stars

Aug. 23, 2023 in Models & Actresses Photos by Charlotte Sinclair

The world of film has always had its stars that shine brighter than the rest, and the Spanish weekly magazine "Cinegramas" from Madrid was among the forefront in celebrating these cinematic luminaries during the mid-1930s. By exploring its covers from 1934 to 1936, we are provided a vivid snapshot into the era's defining actors, movies, and the film industry's evolution.

Farralone House: The Iconic Bauhaus Gem with a Star-Studded Past Hits the Market for $16.5 Million

Aug. 27, 2023 in Travel & Destinations by Charlotte Sinclair

If walls could talk, the ones at the iconic Farralone House would have stories to tell of Hollywood legends and on-screen performances. Built in 1951 by architect William Pereira for banking heiress Dora Hutchinson, the house is a Bauhaus marvel boasting 6 bedrooms and 7 bathrooms. Over the years, it has served as home to Frank Sinatra from the mid-1950s to the mid-1960s, Judy Garland, and Lucille Ball.

Santiago Calatrava’s St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church Illuminates New York City

Sept. 1, 2023 in Travel & Destinations by Julian Everett

In an incredible oversight, many might have missed the opening of the St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church near the World Trade Center in New York City last December. Designed by celebrated architect Santiago Calatrava, this remarkable edifice stands as an aesthetic and spiritual marvel in the heart of the city. As they say, better late than never, and the architectural wonder is definitely worth the attention.

Vogue's Historic Open Casting Introduces Eight Global Finalists Set to Redefine Modern Beauty

Sept. 7, 2023 in Fashion & Style by Julian Everett

Hold onto your couture hats, fashionistas! American Vogue has just dropped its lineup of fresh faces for the season, and this isn't your grandma's model roster. For the first time ever, Vogue hosted an open casting call for global talent, and the world answered.

Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp: A High-End Hotel Finally Arrives in the Fashion Capital

Sept. 12, 2023 in Travel & Destinations by Charlotte Sinclair

For a city famous for its contributions to design and fashion, Antwerp surprisingly lacked a truly high-end hotel until the opening of Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp last year. This prestigious property, part of The Leading Hotels Of The World, is situated on the grounds of a monastery and apothecary garden whose history traces back to 1238. Comprising five historic buildings in the city center, the hotel is the result of five years of meticulous work.

Charlotte Gainsbourg Completes Restoration of Serge Gainsbourg's Historic Home; Opens It as a Museum

Sept. 14, 2023 in Travel & Destinations by Charlotte Sinclair

In an exclusive interview with M Le Magazine, actress and singer Charlotte Gainsbourg, donned in Saint Laurent, reveals that she has completed a multi-year restoration of her father Serge Gainsbourg's historic Parisian apartment. Situated at 5 bis Rue de Verneuil, the home where the iconic musician lived until his death in 1991, has been transformed into a museum that will open its doors to the public on September 20th.

The Grand Opening of Raffles London at The OWO: Where History Meets Luxury

Sept. 15, 2023 in Travel & Destinations by Julian Everett

Mark your calendars, travel enthusiasts and history buffs! September 29th will witness the unveiling of one of this year’s most anticipated hotel projects: Raffles London at The OWO.

A Wrinkle in Time: 'Tools' Magazine Explores the Art of Folding in its Latest Issue

Sept. 16, 2023 in Design & Décor by Charlotte Sinclair

📖 Unfolding The New Narrative

Martell Unveils the World's Most Expensive Cognac: Les Remarquables de Martell

March 14, 2024 in Fashion & Style by Charlotte Sinclair

In a dazzling display of luxury and craftsmanship, Martell has unveiled what is expected to become the most expensive cognac in the world - Les Remarquables de Martell. With an eye-watering price tag of $1.1 million, connoisseurs around the globe are taking notice.

The Magnificent Sammezzano Castle: A Jewel of Tuscan Architecture

March 20, 2024 in Travel & Destinations by Charlotte Sinclair

Tucked away in the picturesque Tuscan town of Leccio lies a hidden gem known as Sammezzano Castle. While Leccio is famous for being home to the fashionable outlet The Mall, the true historical treasure of the town lies in the form of this magnificent castle.

Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi: A Colonial Gem in French Indochina

March 31, 2024 in Travel & Destinations by Julian Everett

Certainly! Let me tell you about the Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi – a magical hotel in Vietnam. 🌟

The Legendary Red-Blue Presidential Train Embarks from Porto's São Bento Station

April 2, 2024 in Travel & Destinations by Charlotte Sinclair

Starting April 6th, the historic red-blue presidential train will once again grace the tracks from São Bento station in Porto, offering a journey steeped in grandeur and history. This train, a moving legend from 1890 to 1970, was once the esteemed carrier of presidents, ministers, and monarchs, with notable passengers including Queen Elizabeth II and Pope Paul VI.

Historic Eaton Le 9e Restaurant in Montreal Set to Reopen After 25 Years

April 26, 2024 in Travel & Destinations by Julian Everett

Montreal is buzzing with anticipation as the historic Eaton Le 9e restaurant, a designated cultural heritage site, is set to welcome diners once again on May 17th after being shuttered for 25 years. First opened in 1931 by Lady Eaton, the wife of department store magnate John Craig Eaton, Eaton Le 9e has been a beloved gastronomic destination housed on the 9th floor of the Eaton Centre.

Historic Cafes of Turin: A Journey Through Time and Taste

April 29, 2024 in Travel & Destinations by Charlotte Sinclair

Turin, a city celebrated for its refined architecture and rich cultural heritage, is also renowned for its historic cafes, more so than any other city in Italy. These establishments, some operating for over a century, are not just cafes but monuments of gastronomy and tradition, nestled under the elegant arcades and colonnades of Turin's grand squares.

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