A 1958 Ferrari 335 S Spyder Takes The Win at the 5th Peninsula Classics Best of the Best

For The Peninsula Classics Best of the Best Awards’ fifth year, an award that draws eight of the concours circuits’ ‘Best of Show’ winners to compete against one another, a stunning 1958 Ferrari 335 S Spyder emerged as the champion among the competition which included some of the most coveted and timeless automobiles ever produced. This year’s winner, which boasted coachwork by Scaglietti, was dubbed the ‘Best of the Best’ after claiming “Best of Show” at the 2019 Cavallino Classic. You may be curious as to what contributed in making the car stand out among its fierce competition? Aside from its irrefutably breathtaking exterior design and famed Ferrari V12 engine, this 335 S Spyder offered finely-detailed accounts of its past glory both inside and outside the racing circuit.

When the classic 1958 Ferrari 335 S Spyder was showcased at The Peninsula Paris during a private party, the car soon became the center of attention as it defeated the other seven competitors that were chosen for their own distinguishable qualities. The Ferrari’s sleek body, incredible curves, powerful engine and extensive documented provenance surely contributed to its victory. It was a great battle between these fellow nominated vehicles due to the fact that each of them were the 2019 Best of Show winners hailing from top-class concours events from across the globe. The judges for this competition included leading figures in the automotive world, such as names like Henry Ford III, Jay Leno and Nick Mason of Pink Floyd.

“It is difficult as a judge to choose a winner for The Peninsula Classics Best of the Best Award because each vehicle has already been selected as one of the best and most prestigious in the world and they’re all immaculate,” states Jay Leno. “For 2019, we selected the Ferrari due to its extremely detailed history, including its racing heritage. Of course, it’s also an incredibly beautiful vehicle.”

Having previously been on display at the New York International Auto Show in 1959, this particular Ferrari competed on multiple raceways in the United States, including Watkins Glen, Daytona International Speedway and the Virginia International Speedway. The last of which resulted in the car sustaining a blown motor in May of 1960. Following this incident, repair costs were so exceedingly high that the Ferrari was left to rest at a New York customs facility where it remained unclaimed and patiently awaiting the day for it to be unleashed upon the world.

Although this Ferrari’s nap at the customs facility was not too excessive, it still had taken roughly three years until the car was eventually acquired in April 1963 for around $1,000 USD. The car was then passed through the hands of many owners and across many countries from 1963 to 2013, until it reached the hands of Andreas Mohringer of Salzburg, Austria. Mohringer wanted to fully restore the car to its former glory, so he commissioned a complete restoration by Paul Russell and company. The firm, which is famed for specializing in restoration, preservation and maintenance of fine vintage vehicles, truly demonstrated their skills as the Ferrari once again made a name for itself by claiming Best of Show winner at Cavallino Classic and later obtaining the Best of the Best award. Other notable achievements from the years before include being the top of its class at the 2017 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance as well as the best of show for the 2018 Concorso d’Eleganza d’Este. 

“This Ferrari is the ultimate combination of beautiful Scaglietti coachwork and racing pedigree,” said Andreas Mohringer, the vehicle’s owner. “After restoring this extremely noteworthy car back to its former glory, it is an absolute joy to share it with the world. We’re thrilled that the judges have recognized how special this vehicle is and it is a great honour to be presented with this prestigious award.”

The private party held at the The Peninsula Paris’ subterranean garage announced the 1958 Ferrari 335 S Spyder as the winner of the award in a very exciting way. After dinner came to a close, a vertical bi-fold door together with numerous lighting effects wowed the crowd as the vehicle made its entrance into the festivities. Big names within the automotive world, international press and authoritative members of Parisian society ended the party with a high-note as they danced to music by Model and Dj Amber Le Bon.

“As the automobile industry continues to evolve, not least technologically, with each passing year, celebrating the beauty, innovation, and craftsmanship that defined a century of automobile manufacturing takes on an ever-greater significance” said William E (Chip) Connor, co-founder of The Peninsula Classics Best of the Best Award , Chairman and CEO of William E. Connor & Associates Ltd., a regular judge and vintage racer. “Everyone associated with this fantastic award should be proud of the work they have done.”

For more information visit: The Peninsula Classics Best of the Best Award 

Images Credit: Peter Singhof

“Flower Gems of India” by Bvlgari Joins Forces with 100 Family-owned Farms in India

Bvlgari perfume division has announced their newest partnership, a collaboration dubbed “Flower Gems of India.” The program, which has been praised for its efforts to support 100 family-owned Indian Jasmine farms, will feature perfumes designed by Firmenich and Jasmine Concrete, a specialist in the production of floral extracts for perfumes. The three-year long program will focus on flowers produced in India’s Tamil Nadu state.

The Italian house, which was founded in Rome nearly 150 years ago, has long maintained a passion for sourcing the best of materials. The “Flower Gems of India” is a demonstration of Bvlgari’s undying resolve for creating remarkable products that bridge the gap between luxury and sustainable, ethical and responsible production.

“It became important to us that we contribute to support the communities that enable us to create our masterpiece fragrances, and that we establish a sustainable approach to preserve and support the local economy. Like our jewels, our fragrances are crafted from nature’s finest gems and we are passionate about finding, sourcing, and wherever possible, supporting the production of these extraordinary ingredients,” says Jean-Christophe Babin, Chief Executive Officer of Bvlgari.

Sound, scientifically based farming techniques are at the heart of Bvlgari’s approach to Jasmine production. Methods will focus on advising small farms on how they can improve soil quality and better manage their water supply to ensure improved quality flowers and ultimately higher levels of profits to improve the farmer’s and their family’s own quality of life.

Most importantly of all, Bvlgari’s “Flower Gems of India” will help promote and keep alive the act of traditional Indian flower cultivation and improve the livelihood of Indian Farmers.

Image credit: © Bvlgari, courtesy of LVMH

A 12 Million Dollar Hawaiian Masterpiece

Ever considered acquiring a stunning retreat on Hawaii’s biggest island? Atop a hill on the island of Kailua Kona is one of Hawaii’s most exceptional residences. The 5 bedroom, 6 bathroom, 7,000+ square foot home is situated on a private street in Kukio, a community often refereed to as the “Billioniare Getaway.” According to Forbes, several prominent businessmen have acquired homes in the community, including Michael Dell, who owns a nearly 20,000 square foot residence in the Kukio.

Kukio, a gated community with 24 hour security, offers peace of mind to the security conscious buyer. Aside from safety and security, one of the most significant highlights of the property is the ability to apply for membership at the prestigious Kukio Golf & Beach Club. The club is well regarded for its 18 hole course designed by Tom Fazio, sports center and spa.

When entering through the property’s gates you are immediately greeted by mature landscaping and a courtyard framed by the main residence along with not one, but two guest houses. An immense auto court features a two and one car garage. With panoramic ocean views in mind, the house was meant to take full advantage of the property’s excellent high position. The main home’s design, which is best described as island chic, boasts gracious living areas, a sumptuous kitchen that opens up via a set of lanai doors to an elegant 25 yard lap pool and an adjacent outdoor bar. A media and game room offer a space to unwind after a long day of enjoying Hawaii’s stunning natural beauty. The absolutely quintessential porch that swings just beside the front door completes this resort like property.

72-199 Lae Kikaua Mauka was recently reduced from an asking price of $17.9 million USD to a guide price of $10.9M to $12.9M USD. Whereas one of the adjoining 3+ acre lots with Ocean and Volcano views is considering offers between $3.3M to $3.9M USD. Interested parties are invited to submit their offers through Spark Offer; the company’s unique platform “allows sellers to dictate pricing, set terms, and review all offers in a simple dashboard that will reveal the true market value of their home.”

Images courtesy of Quinn PR

Costa Rica’s Hotel Aguas Claras | A Caribbean Retreat with Victorian Flavor

Looking for a warm Caribbean retreat with perfect waves and classic, yet simple Victorian elegance? Famed watercolourist Elizabeth Steinvorth and her daughter Elena have created what can only be described as Costa Rica’s most splendid, eco-friendly resort situated in Puerto Viejo. Steinvorth, who has holidayed in the country for decades, originally came to Costa Rica long before the nation benefited from modern conveniences, such as widespread electricity. Now having breathed new life into what resembled to be a small village of dilapidated cabanas, the new found hotelier has bridged the nation’s quaint past with modern convenience in a setting that values the natural environment above all else.

Situated on a remote private island in Costa Rica’s Limon province, Hotel Aguas Claras is made up of 6 bungalows and 6 suites which each feature their own individual design language. In addition, it offers endless opportunities to immerse oneself in this Central American nation’s rich blend of Afro-Costa Rican culture. Though all the bungalows and suites do have something in common: bright colors, comfortable fabrics, and fixtures decorated in local seashells. Highlights of this plastic free property include a significant collection of local artwork, botanical gardens, Casa Gandhi a yoga and meditation space, as well as a splendid pool.

When renovating the property in 2017, Elena Steinvorth and Elena Rohrmoser focused on modernizing the property with an equal focus on preserving the Victorian-Caribbean style. Each bungalow and suite is meant to reflect the resort’s natural beauty and have been decorated with thoughtful details, such as ‘recycled materials, recreated furniture and found objects.’ Awakening the senses of the guests is at the heart of this hotel’s philosophy, and to no surprise the Aguas Claras was awarded the Tourism of Tomorrow award by the Cayuga Collection.

The Zoological enthusiasts will not be disappointed by the Flora and Fauna, which are found in abundant quantities from Palm Trees to howler monkeys and sloths.

In addition to the Claras’ wonderful tropical setting and exceptionally private beaches is the resort’s cuisine. The local and international cuisine served at the restaurant includes an innovative menu showcasing the best of Costa Rican and international flavors, while incorporating fresh local ingredients. Highlights of the menu include Sea Bass, Plantains, and Ceviche. We also hear the bar crafts some delicious mixological cocktails. If you are a fan of hiking, biking, snorkeling, or just rejuvenating in a natural environment, few properties in Costa Rica compare to Hotel Aguas Claras.

Images courtesy of: Hotel Aguas Claras

Miami Condos Reach New Heights at Reach Residence at Brickell City Centre

Located in the Financial District of Miami Florida is a cutting-edge, mixed-use project at Brickell City Centre developed by Swire Properties Inc. The two towers, appropriately named Reach & Rise, have become a quintessential part of Miami’s ever expanding skyline.

Within the Reach Tower is a very special condominium unit indeed; designed by Addison House, a three-bedroom, four and a half bathroom penthouse awaits its forthcoming owner. Currently on the market for $4.2 million, the nearly 2,700 square foot Penthouse benefits from a service quarter, stunning views of the ocean and city, 500+ square feet of terraces, and an abundance of original artwork custom made for the residence by local artist, Lara Gallardo. Addison worked closely with Gallardo to develop works “including the As Above So Below and Modern Balance,” so that every piece of art was born with Miami’s natural and constructed environment in mind, which of-course include aspects of water and city life.

The 4202-4302 Reach Residence at Brickell City Centre unit’s interior design is characterized by minimal and elegant wallpaper, warm woods, neutral tones, bold textures of color and reflective surfaces to mirror the development’s focus on urban lifestyle, fashion and luxury. Communal amenities at Reach Tower include a concierge 7 days a week, fitness center, hammam spa, pool, library, and entertainment suite with living room, dining room, kitchen combination.

Standing 43 floors high, the development provides residents extraordinary private living combined with the latest in convenience. The $1 Billion dollar Brickell City Centre’s most exciting feature is the development’s 500,000 square feet of retail and restaurant spaces, which include businesses such as, Victoria’s Secret, Bath & Body Works, Suit Supply, Stitched and Pinko.

Images courtesy of Quinn PR

The Final Bentley Mulsanne

In a recent announcement Bentley has stated that they will be kissing goodbye to the Mulsanne and its legendary six and three quarter litre V8, the longest V8 ever in continuous production. Bentley’s farewell kiss you may ask? The Mulsanne 6.75 Edition by Mulliner, which will be limited to just thirty examples.

After 60 years in production the awe inspiring 6¾-litre engine will no longer grace the production lines at Crewe. Bentley’s 6.75 litre V8 debuted under the bonnet of the 1959 Bentley S2, and although that masterpiece has been tweaked here and there it largely remains almost identical to the original. In what appears to be an effort to lower emissions, Bentley will be replacing the Mulsanne with the Flying Spur and offer hybrid options for all models by 2023. As of yet the Bentayga is the only Bentley available with a hybrid power-train.

“The Mulsanne has played a pivotal role in maintaining Bentley’s position as global leader of the luxury limousine segment. The flagship of our model range, its longevity is a testament to our ongoing commitment to hand-building the finest motor cars in the world. The new Mulsanne 6.75 Edition is the culmination of that achievement. While production of the Mulsanne will end in Spring 2020, this decision has been taken at a time when we are experiencing significant customer demand across our other existing model lines. As such, we will be redeploying all of our manufacturing colleagues who currently work on the Mulsanne to other areas of the business,” stated Chris Craft, Member of the Board, Sales, Marketing and After-sales at Bentley Motors

The Final Edition will feature blacked out bright work in a gloss finish aside from the lights, which will maintain their chrome finish to highlight the customer’s choice of paint color. A tinted hood ornament, 21 inch rims, and Mulliner Serenity radiator grille and exhaust finishers complete the vehicle’s exterior key design elements. The intake manifold will be finished in black instead of typical silver and the engine number plate will be signed by Bentley’s Chairman and CEO, Adrian Hallmark rather than the craftsman that built the car’s engine.

Based on the 530 bhp, 1100 Nm Mulsanne Speed the most driver focused Mulsanne ever created, the Final edition is sure to raise some eyebrows with its tasteful yet sporty design elements, which include the classic ‘organ stop’ ventilation pulls replaced by designs capped by miniature versions of the engine oil cap and a 6.75 Edition motif is stitched into the seats.

As far as interior customization goes, the Final edition will offer four single tone leather color choices: Imperial Blue, Beluga, Fireglow and Newmarket Tan. A stunning bespoke color split spreads a silver accent throughout the cabin. The silver spreads across the seat pipping and center console in leather as well as a silver-painted veneer with a unique metal commemorative plaque fitted to the front console.

The iconic Bentley Mulsanne originally hit the road in 1980 and truth be told we are incredibly disappointed to see this handmade masterpiece exit production.

Images courtesy of Bentley Motors

Exhibition “ame nochi hana” at Le Bon Marché Rive Gauche in Paris: Wows in Spectacular Fashion

Le Bon Marché Rive Gauche continues over 160 years of engagement to the arts with the debut of its latest art instillation, the exhibition by designer Oki Sato’s nendo titled “ame nochi hana”, which translates from the artist’s native Japanese meaning rain flowers.

Aristide Boucicaut, who founded Le Bon Marché was well regarded for his love of the arts now continued by the department store’s owner LVMH. Over the past five years, Le Bon Marché has hosted five creative exhibitions by artists, such as Ai Weiwei, Chiharu Shiota, Leandro Erlich and Joana Vasconcelos. Artists are given carte blanche aside from the one request that the exhibition should sit well in the beginning of the year’s “White Sale” color pattern.

“I thought it was a wonderful story how people would buy white things for their everyday lives – sheets, towels, plates – in order to refresh their spirit, their feelings and their emotions at the start of the new year. That became the starting point for our project,” said Oki Sato, founder of the nendo Design Studio.

Oki Sato’s nendo studio employed a wide range of techniques to develop the “ame nochi hana” exhibition, including 3D Printing. Oki Sato’s minimal style and poetically stunning pieces allow for visitors to explore her instillation of miniature buildings, sculpture, and drawings with a mindset of bliss and complete imagination.

Available to view until February 16th of this year, “ame nochi hana” is laid out across two floors with a highlight being the glass roof above the exhibition. With a focus on water, nearly two dozen sculptures are present each in the shape of a water bottle and a rain shower that “morphs into raining daisies.”

Image credit: © Le Bon Marché Rive Gauche. courtesy of LVMH

Gianna Dispenza’s Double Like Tata Stimulates the Imagination

In Gianna Dispenza’s most recent solo exhibition, symbolism takes center stage. Her works delight the viewer’s subconscious with manifestations of abstract portraits, hovering still lifes, and scenes of nature all delivered on the most obscure of canvases. From public transport tickets to newspapers and wrappers, recycled pieces of the artist’s life proudly takes a spotlight in the exhibition which just concluded on January 18th. The show that took place at Galleria Ramo in Como, Italy was an intimate yet spectacular affair in every which way.

One of the most fascinating pieces in the show is a small work placed just above the floor in an abstract corner, the work’s content you may ask? A 29 × 21.5 cm painting on paper, with the canvas appearing to be a page of a book at first glance that depicts a vividly red hot dog encased by a bun far too small for the sausage. Yet it is the words of German Sociologist Thomas Lemke and his colleagues that cover the painting.

“I work through a lot of repetition. So even though the formal qualities change, I’ve actually been painting through the same ideas since about 2013. It’s the point where complementary ideas meet, and bleed into each other. I think, for instance, you could look at some of my paintings and question whether the figures were intimate or violent; sharing a meal or eating alone; sleeping or failing to sleep, and so on. For whatever reason these daily habits keep re-emerging in my work. And while as headers they might seem mundane, they are things we all live through. I’m pairing out the situations as opposites, but as I work through them, I find that they are positioned across a continuum for me, and are vastly complex, overlapping, and fragile even,” says Gianna Dispenza

Flowers are another theme that is prominent in this body of Dispenza’s work, although many creations in the exhibit featured orchids the piece de la resistance is a work titled “Double Like Tata but Mama Doesn’t Have Them.” Even though flowers and orchids in particular are often characterized as rather feminine, Dispenza digs deep into the meaning behind the word. In fact, orchid is derived from órkhis the ancient Greek word for testicle. With this in mind we find that “Double Like Tata but Mama Doesn’t Have Them” represents a dual masculine and feminine energy demonstrated through deep meaningful figuration.

Images courtesy of: GALLERIA RAMO

A Splendid Ski Home in the Aspen Highlands

With the amount of snow in the alps slowly declining, it’s easy to see why there has been an increase in Aspen’s popularity. From culinary delights to shopping and the Highland Bowl, considered among the state’s most extreme runs, Aspen offers just about everything the winter traveler could ask for. For those seeking the best of Aspen, a luxurious Aspen Highlands estate situated on over 2 acres awaits its next discerning owner. Located on Falcon Road in the prestigious Five Trees community is a five bedroom six and a half bath home that exemplifies the phrase ‘Winter Retreat’. With custom made furnishings, high ceilings, and warm woodwork the house is grand yet cozy.

“This property is unique on a number of levels. It provides end-of-the-road privacy, world-class skiing right out the front door and is move-in ready. The furnishings are top of the line and in perfect harmony with the home’s proportions. Purchasing a home of this stature, fully furnished, is a rare opportunity,” stated Colter Smith of Christie’s International Real Estate Aspen.

Entering through the porte cochere the home is instantly characterized by it’s open floor-plan. The sunken living room and raised dining area benefit from ample windows, which flood the living area with picturesque views of the mountains, and open to a heated slate patio. Located near the entry of the home is a slate hallway which elegantly leads to a accompaniment of 5 luxurious bedrooms including two master suites. Downstairs a suite of entertaining spaces await, including a home cinema, game room, wine cellar, gym, and outdoor spa. A three car garage completes the home.

With an asking price of just under $14 million, this property is currently the most expensive listing in Five Trees, though with its exceptional finishes such as, Venetian plaster walls and palatial ceiling heights the Falcon Road Estate stands far above others on the market. Not to mention the home’s massive views of Baldy Peak and the Willow Creek Valley. And for the ultimate in convenience “the home is being offered fully furnished, including artwork, interior décor, right down to the flatware and linens.”

Images courtesy of:  Christie’s International Real Estate

Rock House Resort in the Turks and Caicos

Rock House, a Resort and Residential development project which is being assembled on over a dozen acres on the north coast of the Providenciales in the Turks & Caicos, is a perfect blend of sustainability and natural beauty. With six hundred feet of ocean frontage and elevations of nearly 100 feet, Rock House pays no comprise to employ sustainable construction techniques combined with cutting edge scenery.

Grace Bay Resorts and Coast Architects are working together with local botanist Nature’s Vision to assemble a landscape that consists of entirely local species of plants. While residence interiors will benefit from the design expertise of Shawn Henderson and local Coast Architects.

The native species that will be incorporated in the resort’s design will include rare genus of plants, such as the slow-growing Joewood trees which can live for hundreds of years. As construction is currently still ongoing at the resort, the gardening team is storing plants in a nursery on property. Other notable sustainable resort features include site excavated limestone, which will be incorporated throughout the property and lend towards a reduced environmental impact.

A particular highlight of the property’s limestone is a pool carved directly out of a limestone cliff, which will serve the Hilltop condos. Prices for residences in the vicinity of the limestone pool range from just under $700,000 to nearly $1,500,000 USD.

Images courtesy of: Grace Bay Resorts via Quinn PR