Meet Sabrina Percy

Meet London based Artist and Illustrator, Sabrina Percy. Fresh from her days at the London College of Fashion, the 27-year old Tatler ‘It Girl’ is making a name for herself as a shining star on the illustration scene.

In a world which lacks the sophistication of icons such as Grace Kelly and Audrey Hepburn, the ever so stylish British aristocrat is refreshing, and can easily be dubbed today’s queen of class, with a style reminiscent of days long gone. Sabrina is often found gracing the runways of Dolce & Gabbana in Milan or working in her London Studio to create illustrations for fashion brands such as lululemon and British marques like Rolls Royce. And on her days off, she is no stranger to a quintessential adventure in the Scottish Highlands or a holiday in southeast Asia.

Though very much to the contrary of many young artists, Sabrina’s creativity is somehow different, there is a certain “je nais se pais” to her work that is completely unique, yet, all of her work flows together in a meaningful and harmonious fashion. It can almost become addicting to see her next piece of work. Sabrina’s imagination certainly knows no bounds and can only be considered remotely equal to her passionate entrepreneurial drive.

This Holiday season we were given the exclusive privilege of speaking with Sabrina on her deeply energetic and personal work as an artist in addition to her pursuit of excellence in style and world travels.

How did you first become interested in a career as an illustrator? Was it an encounter with fashion or art in your childhood, or through family or school?

“When I was very young my mother was a fashion designer, and she used to take me to the factory where the clothes were made. I saw her fashion sketches and was inspired to draw myself. I am very dyslexic and so art was something I was actually quite good at – and I held it as a strong point. I enjoyed it and it lead me to gain an art scholarship to my secondary school, then onto my degree in Fashion Illustration from London College of Fashion.”

What have been some of your favorite Illustrations that you have created so far?

“I am still particularly proud of the painting I did for the Kings Road lululemon store. It took me about 6 months to complete as it is just over 8 feet tall. It was so tall I had to work the whole painting on the floor, as it wouldn’t stand up in my flat. Another is a picture of a baby Rhino – I met the little thing while I was out in Kenya. Even so young, it’s grey skin was so wrikly and textural. The piece was created to be the logo for the event launch of the Borana Conservation trust. Then the original was sold in the auction of the event, and all the money was donated toward the charity.”

Do you have a preferred medium for illustrating?

“I think my favorite is pencil, because I believe it behaves the best for me – but I love the vibrancy of colours in ink. I recently discovered digital drawing with a stylus and a tablet, which is my new obsession. I’m not very good yet, but practice makes perfect.”

In addition to your passion for art, you are also a gifted model and fashionista. Do you ever see yourself combining your love of fashion with your illustrations to become a designer? 

“It’s funny because my mother was a fashion designer, I have dipped my toe in a bit of small projects with her, which leads me to discover that the pages are my happy place, not the pattern cutting table. I’m in awe of people who can create a garment from scratch with all of the math and textile rules. If someone could work with me to realize my drawings into fabric form, then that would be great – but won’t be handling a sewing machine anytime soon.”

To what do you credit the inspiration for your inherently unique and very classy style? Are there any particular style icons that you look up to? 

“I was very keen on Audrey Hepburn when I was younger. I love Olivia Palermo’s style, but I’m yet to meet a girl who doesn’t. I think Poppy Delevigne has great style and fashion sense as well.” 

Who are some of your preferred fashion labels at the moment?

“I love Dolce & Gabanna, their clothes are so playful and fun that you feel the emotion as soon as you put them on. I feel that Stefano and Domenico’s energy always makes it’s way into the clothes. Their energy and good vibes are infectious. I also love Burberry for it’s classic English heritage, it feels like my home brand.”

Tell us more about your relationship with Dolce & Gabbana, and what initially started your love affair with the quintessential Italian fashion house?

“In September I received a request to walk in their Millenials ‘secret show’ in Milan. My boyfriend and I where whisked out there and the whole team was such a pleasure to work with, you really get the sense of family with them. The clothes were beautiful and everyone there was so lovely and so passionate, it was impossible not to fall in love. Then we worked together again in November, where they did the Harrods take over and we walked the catwalk in the Harrods food hall. I was over the moon to be reunited with the team, to wear even more beautiful clothes and party the night away with them eating their pasta – Dolce and Gabanna really know how to live la dolce vita.”

Being a rather frequent traveler, what have been some of your favorite destinations this year?

“This year started for me in the mountains in Japan at Gala-Yuzawa, which was incredible. I was surprised how different it was in sport and culture to European skiing. The sport is more leisurely and the long skiing lunches are not a thing! But it’s beautiful and their Onsen culture is amazing in the mountains with natural hot volcanic springs everywhere. Antigua is always a beautiful destination – crystal clear water and the vibe is very laid back. Perfect holiday…  It was my first time to Florence this year and I was lucky enough to go twice as we had two different weddings there. I love Italy for the beautiful architecture and the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore was breathtaking.”

Having just recently returned from a trip to Northwestern India, do you have any tips for those of us who are looking to visit the country?

“I think it very much depends on when you go, but when we were there in November it was great. Warm in the day and cooler in the evening. You cannot go wrong with a visit to India, just explore as much as possible. In Udaipur be sure to visit lake Pichola, the City Palace is unbelievably beautiful, and surprisingly completely man made, inspired by Venice.”

What do you believe sets London apart being your locality of choice?

“I would say it’s the diversity. The people, the areas, the styles, it’s a complete melting pot of the best of everything. I challenge someone to find a style of food that cannot be found in London and I don’t think there is another city that can match that array of amazing cuisines and quality, all in one city. I think no matter who you are or what you’re into, you should be able to find your tribe here. Each borough is like it’s own little village with a unique culture and feel. If you looked around enough I would say you are sure to find your own little community.”

Where can we follow you?

My personal instgram is @sabrinacpercy

If you’re just after my artwork, best to go to @sabrinapercyart

And for my website at:  www.SabrinaPercy.com

Where to next?

“I am heading to Kenya for the New Year, which will be amazing. Most importantly, I have to get my calendar out, pick a date, and commit to my first exhibition.”

The All New Tesla Roadster

Tesla Motors will soon be producing an all new Roadster for 2020, which based on the announced specifications, should give the best lot of supercars a good run for their money.  The launch of the new Roadster will also go hand in hand to fulfill Tesla Chief Executive, Elon Musk’s dream of creating the best cars in the world, quoted as saying “the point of this is to give the hardcore smackdown to gasoline cars.”

Not long after Mr. Musk presented his groundbreaking electric semi-truck; an all new super sports car was shown on stage to steal the spotlight.  Tesla claims the new roadster will go from not to sixty in under two seconds, and complete a quarter mile in just under nine. An exact top speed has not yet been announced, though, 250 miles per hour is a conservative estimate, easily placing the Roadster among today’s highly coveted Hyper Cars.  Yet, the Roadster’s most unique feature is that it will seat four individuals in relative comfort. Cargo room will be plentiful in this convertible, and a 620 mile range powered by a 200-kilowatt hour battery pack is nothing short of incredible.  A starting price of $200,000 USD also makes for class leading value, feel free to reserve yours for a deposit of $50,000 right now.

The original Tesla Roadster was produced from 2008-2012, and was instrumental in the fact that it was the first highway legal all-electric vehicle powered by a lithium ion battery.  The original roadster was also the first all-electric vehicle to travel over 200 miles on a single charge.  Production figures were just under 2,500, and were most popular in continental Europe.

For more information on the all new Tesla Roadster visit:  www.tesla.com/roadster

Images courtesy of:  Tesla, Inc.

The Third Annual Peninsula Classics Best of The Best Award

Celebrating their third year, the Peninsula Classics Best of The Best Award, also know as the leading motoring accolade for the most outstanding classic car, will be officially making its debut in Paris sometime in February 2018.  While it may be some time before the winner is declared; we can still share with you the eight classic cars that were worthy enough to be acknowledged as this year’s chosen contenders.

These eight selected concours “Best of Show” winners are credited as the most revered in the motoring world of today.  On Thursday, February 8th, 2018, The Peninsula Classics Best of the Best Award winner will be announced at a private dinner at The Peninsula Hotel in Paris.  The private dinner will also be taking place during the celebrated Rétromobile event, where international motoring connoisseurs gather each year, hence making the night a very sociable and enjoyable one for those in attendance.  In addition, as the only five-star luxury property in the city that incorporates an underground garage, there will be an exclusive reveal after-party for additional guests following the private announcement in the lower level of the hotel.

“We are delighted to have the opportunity to bring The Peninsula Classics Best of the Best Award to Paris in 2018, which I trust will further promote this distinguished honour on the concours circuit,” said The Hon. Sir Michael Kadoorie, who as well as being the co-founder of the award and Chairman of The Hongkong and Shanghai Hotels, Limited, is also the owner and operator of The Peninsula Hotels.

“Concours d’Elegance originated in Paris in the 17^th century, and we are delighted to bring the modern equivalent back to this beautiful city; a fitting venue for such a distinct honour,” said Sir Michael Kadoorie. “The award recognises excellence in masterful craftsmanship, attention to detail, tradition and ingenuity, and we look forward to celebrating the world’s most exceptional motor car at this prestigious event.”

The below lists the finalists that are under this year’s consideration for The Third Annual Peninsula Classics Best of the Best Award:

• 1939 Alfa Romeo 8C 2900B Spider by Touring: Amelia Island Concours de Sport

Being one of the most technologically advanced cars of its time, this impeccably restored vehicle is apart of the same class as the most sought-after Alfa models of the 1930s.  Based off the oppressive racing version and featuring coachwork by Carrozzeria Touring of Milan, this elegant Alfa Romeo is one of just seven Touring Spiders that were assembled with the long-wheelbase 2.9-litre chassis.

• 1951 Ferrari 212 Export Cabriolet by Vignale, design by Giovanni Michelotti: The Gran Turismo Ferrari Cup, Cavallino Classic

Based on a model constructed mainly for competition, this small-bodied, right-hand-drive, open-top Ferrari was constructed for the Portuguese Ambassador in France, Jorge da Cunha d’Almeida Araujo. Its uncomplicated charm and elegance was actualized by Vignale, after a sketch drawn by consultant stylist Giovanni Michelotti.

• 1936 Bugatti Type 57 SC Coupé Atlantic, design by Jean Bugatti: Chantilly Arts & Elégance Richard Mille

Powered by a supercharged engine and also considered by many to be the first supercar ever made, the iconic rivets on this automobile penned by Jean Bugatti, Ettore’s son, are a result of the inability of the magnesium-alloy body panels to be welded for fear of them catching fire. Under the care of the Mullin Automotive Museum, this Bugatti Coupé, which was limited to only three models, remains one of the most elegant crown jewels on the automotive circuit.

• 1957 Alfa Romeo Giulietta Sprint Speciale Prototipo by Bertone, design by Franco Scaglione: Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este

The extraordinary dark red streamlined prototype was shown at the Turin Motor Show in 1957. Its historical calibre lies in its famous place as a link between Franco Scaglione’s legendary Alfa Romeo Berlinetta Aerodinamica Tecnica design studies and the production version of the Giulietta Sprint Speciale models that followed. Complementing the fluid body lines was a highly-tuned, lightweight aluminium 1.3-litre engine that can distribute 100 horsepower.

• 1933/35 Lancia Astura Aerodinamica Coupé by Castagna: Concours of Elegance UK

Lancias were brilliantly engineered cars and Vittorio Mussolini, son of Benito, wanted to enter their latest model, the V8-engined Astura, in racing. He then ordered a body built by Castagna, which was initially prepared for an Alfa Romeo, to replace the original body fitted on this car after having suitably modified the vehicle’s chassis. This one-off was reborn following its seven-year restoration and has just recently won several awards on the concours circuit.

• 1957 Ferrari 250 GT Cabriolet by Pinin Farina: Goodwood Cartier Style et Luxe Concours d’Elegance

The 250 series established the Ferrari legend. Berlinettas and spiders completely dominated racing, whilst coupés and cabriolets were sold to prominent clients who enjoyed their Gran Turismo capabilities and did not mind displaying their wealth. Pinin Farina had become Ferrari’s favourite coachbuilder and penned this supremely elegant open two seater that was a perfect match for the music of its 3-litre, V12 engine.

• 1929 Mercedes-Benz S Roadster by Barker: Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance

This stunning car is the result of German engineering combined with British craftsmanship. Built together with lightweight tourer coachwork by Barker of London while sporting a Ferdinand Porsche designed 7-litre supercharged engine, it is the vision of the British race car driver Lord Howe; which actually explains the striking Curzon Blue hue (the Howe family colour). It has since been restored by it’s current owner to the exact specifications of the noble family.

• 1964 ATS 2500 GTS Coupé by Allemano, design by Franco Scaglione: The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering

The ATS is the first Italian GT mid-engined car. It was developed by ex-Ferrari engineers who had left after a row with Mrs Ferrari. In correlation they ran a Formula One team but results were not up to the expectations and backers soon retired. Between seven and ten road cars were all that was produced, each sporting tasteful Allemano coachwork, of which this is an even rarer lightweight version with a 2.5-litre, V8 engine.

This year’s Peninsula Classics Best of the Best Award will highlight the Best of Show winners that are under consideration by 24 highly-renowned motorcar authorities, famed designers and prominent celebrities, including acclaimed TV show host, Jay Leno; H.R.H. Prince Michael of Kent; Chief Creative Officer at Pinin Farina, Fabio Filippini; Ken Okuyama; Formula One race cars and McLaren F1 road car designer, Gordon Murray; Scuderia Ferrari Formula One racer, Jean Todt; Ralph Lauren; Chief Design Officer of Mercedes-Benz and all brands of Daimler AG, Gordon Wagener; and many more…

For more information visit:  Peninsula.com

Vintage Industrial’s New Gravity Defying Cant Table

The Cant can defy gravity; this new gravity defying table from Vintage Industrial pushes design boundaries to never before seen heights, as well as becoming the foundation for future design innovations.  With the Cant table’s overzealous and modern design, it is a first in a series of design wisdom defying pieces that Vintage Industrial plans on producing in the coming days.

Vintage Industrial has always been passionate about the furniture they have built ever since the company first started out from a garage in 2009.  In what initially began as a hobby, doing what they love with a design and materials that can last centuries, the current Vintage Industrial continues to stand by that same passion in order to create high-quality pieces of avant-garde furniture for their customers that will last them through generations to come.

“We wanted to do something different, to really push the boundaries of conventional design and wisdom,” said Greg Hankerson, co-founder of Vintage Industrial. “The Cant table looks like it wants to tip; like it can’t stay upright, but with its cantilever design it can and will. We love it.”

This gravity defying table is a variation from Vintage Industrial’s aesthetic, bringing forth a visionary concept to the company’s current production line.  The Cant table features a Cantilever design, with a heavy plate steel base, 96 x 40 stainless steel table top, and is available in polished or non-polished finish.  The Cant table’s base model is priced at $13,950.

For more information visit:  Retro.net

Visit the Vintage Industrial Facebook page here

The Epitome of Speed and Elegance: 2018 Aston Martin Vantage

For the past several decades, the Aston Martin Vantage has become one of the nameplate’s most iconic and refined models ever produced by the British Marque.  And this statement is not any less accurate when referring to the all new 2018 model. When first conceptualized in 1951 on a high-output engine option for the DB2, the Vantage promptly established itself as its own unique model.

The new Vantage sports car displays a bold yet timeless vibe with an athletic, predatory stance, which is evident from the minimal front and rear overhangs.  The car’s robust flanks and generous haunches convey an unalloyed adroitness and vivacity that is inherent within the sports car.  Furthermore, the new head and tail lights add a new signature concept to the Vantage, giving it a conspicuous road presence and a strong individual personality within its growing model range.

The sports car’s cockpit introduces sharp, focused lines that reflect a more dynamic and vigorous nature to the vehicle’s outer appearance.  When stepping into the Vantage, a high waist interior theme and lower driving position welcomes you; this offers the driver and its passenger a more engaging driving experience with improved headroom when compared with the Vantage’s predecessors.  The interior also includes extensive storage space behind the seats along with ample double-tier storage areas.

Under the hood of the new Vantage is Aston Martin’s potent new alloy, 4-litre twin-turbo V8 engine.  It was placed as far back in the chassis as possible to find the perfect 50:50 weight distribution.  The high performance and high efficiency V8 engine has a dry weight of 1530kg, in which provides the car with an overwhelming power-to-weight and torque-to-weight ratios.

This new Vantage deploys it’s massive power and torque to the rear wheels through a rear-mounted ZF eight-speed automatic transmission.  Achieving 0 to 60mph in just 3.5 seconds and offering a top speed of 195mph, the new Vantage utilizes a series of integrated electronic systems to deliver maximum control to the driver, much to his/her enjoyment.  These said electronic systems include Dynamic Stability Control and Dynamic Torque Vectoring.

The chassis of the car is an enhance version of the DB11’s bonded aluminum structured chassis, whereas 70 percent of the Vantage’s structure components are newly added.  The design integrates balance, strength, sharpness, weight efficiency, and handling flexibility into the new Vantage as its the top priority.

Chief Creative Officer, Marek Reichman said: “New Vantage has the most powerful and provocative design language ever seen in a Vantage. A hunter, light in weight and is therefore light in it’s visual language. It is based on a single line under tension, inspired by the DB10 and the extreme track-only Aston Martin Vulcan, blending the two unique design languages together into a form that is sculpted, dynamic, pure and elemental”.

The Vantage features an amplitude of first-rate standard equipment such as keyless start/stop, tyre pressure monitoring system, parking distance display, park assist and front and rear parking sensors.  The car also includes an In-Car Entertainment system, of which is controlled and viewed via a centrally mounted 8 LCD screen, that consists of the Aston Martin Audio System, iPod, iPhone and USB playback, Bluetooth audio & phone streaming, and an integrated satellite navigation system.

The new Vantage features an Electronic Rear Differential (E-Diff), which links itself to the car’s electronic stability control system in order to comprehend its performability, and then responds accordingly to transfer the engine’s power towards the relevant wheel.  This in turn boosts straight-line stability and its cornering performance to give the driver a heightened level of confidence to fully explore and bring out the car’s true capabilities to it’s maximum potential.

With the assimilation of the engine, transmission, E-Diff, Dynamic Torque Vectoring, Dynamic Stability Control, Adaptive Damping and the electric power steering systems, the new Vantage has each mode better improve every area of the car to become one.  This allows the vehicle to gain agility and enhanced responsiveness, thereby achieving a sharper, more vocal, and exciting nature for the Vantage.  The Vantage generates a significant level of downforce thanks to its new side gills, which has been integrated into the body surface and drains air pressure out from the front wheel arches, and the distinct askew rear deck lid.

Just as you would expect from Aston Martin, the new Vantage demonstrates a high degree of craftsmanship from their flawless paintwork and lavish Alcantara & leather upholstery to the high quality tactile natural materials that were used for levels of finish.  The customizability on the new vantage is quite extensive as it generously provides an array of options to choose from.  These include forged alloy wheels in a variety of finishes, Sports Plus Collection (comprising Sports Plus seats and Sports steering wheel), carbon fibre interior and exterior detailing with a Premium Audio System.

Aston Martin President & Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Andy Palmer said: “It speaks volumes for the outgoing Vantage that it is the single most successful model in Aston Martin’s history. Creating a worthy successor has been a challenge to relish and a huge source of motivation. I’m enormously excited by what we’ve created: a new Vantage that’s more explicit in looks and intent, wrapping heart-pounding performance and dazzling dynamics into an everyday usable package. A true sports car with a sharper look and a keener dynamic edge, the new Vantage is the Aston Martin pure driving machine enthusiasts have been waiting for.”

With deliveries scheduled to begin in the second quarter of 2018, the new Vantage is currently on sale for a recommended retail price of £120,900 in the UK, €154,000 in Germany and $149,995 in the USA.

For more information visit:  Global.AstonMartin.com/en-gb/models/new-vantage

Photography by: Drew Gibson

“Involution” By Martín Loyato: Upcoming Album Release

Through the co-operation among a collection of skilled musicians from different backgrounds, a masterpiece titled “Involution” was created. More than 30 musicians from all over the world, including Argentina, Australia, Germany, Greece, Korea, Lebanon, Spain and the USA, have combined their talents to produce this “electro-acoustic experimental album” containing 9 breathtaking tracks.

The 18^th of December is the awaited day when “Involution” by the professional Argentinian trumpet player “Martín Loyato”, a multi-instrumental player, who added to his treasure a new album that will be released digitally worldwide. Through this diversity in culture and self-expression, Loyato is trying to establish a new sort of recording that embraces all different types of music, thus uniting their imperfections together to come up with a magnificent blend. The album was recorded and mixed at Audio Addicts Studio in Beirut, Lebanon. Under the label of Syncretism Records, which is an independent music label interested in releasing creative-contemporary free world music from experimental jazz to classical, founded by Loyato in 2009.

Loyato is pioneering this new type of music that is stripped of all dominant discourses shaped by intersection of gender, race and class praising the mere “interconnectedness” among people, thus combining music the same way people blend with each other and connecting their emotions that fluctuate between happiness and pain. The inspiration behind the music is the “spiritual meaning of involution” that aims for progression of the untouchable spirits. For him”This philosophy represents the inner evolution of the mind, heart and soul, the inward path of a spiritual aspirant toward self-realization that might be the ascent back to God or beyond the creation.”

Surprisingly enough, Dr. Loyato has worked on many other skillful projects and some of them even took place at the Lebanese American University – the institution he teaches at – that partially supported this recording in addition to other contributors such as Audio Addicts Studio, Patrizia Jewelry Sculptor, SaxOn… Loyato tries his best to encourage talented students by giving them a chance to let their music reach out to people’s ears inside and outside the university bubble. Many Lebanese American University students participated in this album as the choir and by instrumental playing.

I personally perceived the music as similar to the sea where at some points it’s raging and at other points it’s calm. A mixture of different musical instruments: Qanoon, Oud, Saxophones, violins and electronics… This unique taste of mixing East and West accompanied by changing levels of vocals, creates the sense of complication “involution” hence communicating a meaningful and pleasurable experience while listening to the recordings. Moreover, It’s quite interesting how Dr. Loyato includes some Arabic lyrics in the album without creating dissonance, but, on the opposite harmoniously the melody pampers the ears. Eagerly, he’s trying to spread his art in the Arab region too by adding an Arabic touch to this album.

For more information about Martín Loyato visit:  MartinLoyato.com

For additional details about the album check out the below video.

NYC Prewar Apartment Relisted for 34.5 Million Dollars

A prewar Fifth Avenue apartment located in New York City, that once belonged to former U.S. Ambassador Bruce Gelb, was just recently put back on the market with a lowered offering price.  In what was originally listed for $65 million and later lessened to $38 million during the summer, has now been relisted by real estate agency Stribling & Associates for the current asking price of $34.5 million.

Situated on the tenth-floor with 51 feet of Central Park frontage, the 12 room prewar residence includes five bedrooms and five baths.  The apartment is positioned in the heart of Fifth Avenue’s Museum Mile, so the distance between the Metropolitan and Guggenheim Museums to the main entrance is fairly close by.  Throughout the abode the decor continues unaltered, this includes the wood-paneled living room which has 11-foot-high ceilings and a fireplace with an original J.E.R. Carpenter carved-wood mantle.

Within the 12-person formal dining room, an adorned fireplace is adjacent to the expansive windows that offer stunning views of the park.  Additionally, there is an eat-in-kitchen right next to a butler’s pantry that features glass-fronted cabinets and double sinks.  The highlight of the residence is obviously the panoramic views of Central Park, which can be seen through most of the rooms.

In addition, the residence has it’s own private elevator, an office, a library, a windowed den along with adjoining bath (which both can be converted into additional bedrooms), a private laundry room and a multitude of walk-in closets are spread throughout.  The apartment features three south-facing bedrooms furnished with en suite baths, and located on the far end of the apartment is the spacious master suite, which includes two baths, a dressing room, and several walk-in closets.

Building amenities include a state-of-the art gym with a pilates reformer, bike room, half-basketball court, golf simulator, and endless pool.  Furthermore, it also permits pets on a case by case basis as well as offering two large storage rooms and a vault trade with the apartment.

Pamela D’Arc & Gioia Zwack of Stribling hold the listing.

Photo Credit: David Paler

For more information visit:  Stribling.com

Floating Venice: an Authentic Venetian Experience Brought to the Middle East

Dubai, famous for it’s luxurious infrastructure from large miraculous parks and roads to the world’s highest buildings, added to it’s grandeur a unique vessel resort that represents a floating miniature version of Venice. In September of 2017, Kleindienst Group launched their “Floating Venice” project worth 680 million US dollars at Cityscape Global. The inspiration behind this so-called “boat” was generated by the success of “The Floating Seahorse” that was the first underwater experience and received a large number of visitors.

Floating Venice will start construction in 2018 and luckily will be finalized by 2020, serving the interests of people for over 100 years and will push the underwater experience to a higher level. 3,000 people can visit the resort daily, consisting of 4 decks, in which one is undersea. The decks consist of 414 cabins, 180 of which are underwater.

As guests arrive to the main Piazza San Marco by boat, seaplane or helicopter, the underwater lobby will greet them warmly and introduce them to the most exceptional journey they may ever experience. In order to reach their targeted cabins, guests will have to pass through canals by gondolas brought from Venice.

An integral element of life that is added to this resort, which makes it more desirable to visit, is it’s numerous water features. People do not perceive water as only an elixir for life, but also as a source of luxury. So instead of a typical visit to the sea or any resort, Floating Venice embraces our relationship with water, offering spas, cabins and restaurants located underwater that will pamper guests by its charming seascapes, giving them immense choices concerning activities. The world’s first floating spa and gym are constructed underwater in the Arsenale Piazza. In addition, nightlife and dinning can be enjoyed in any restaurant chosen from a collection of 12, in which 3 are underwater giving breath-taking panoramas. One could pleasurably also stare at the passing gondolas above.

Chairman, Josef Kleindienst sees this correlation between Kleindienst group’s vision and Dubai’s progression as interconnected, where both seek the pioneering position for innovation. Being optimistic and proud, Kleindienst has a strong level of optimism to “enhance the landscape of real estate and hospitality and deliver a new iconic experience.”

Floating Venice is a piece of art that combines different cultures, hosting many traditional festivals such as Carnivale di Venezia, Binnale di Venezia and Festa del Rendentore. In addition, there are several shops that embody the Venetian style which thus adds to the taste a concentrated Venetian portion.

Using technology, Dubai was able to create its own Venice. Not only Venice, but even Dubai is working on other replicas of famous wonders from around the world such as the Eiffel Tower and the Egyptian Pyramids, all under a project dubbed ‘Falcon City of Wonders’. This brings forth the curiosity of discovering Dubai’s future projects, and also raises the question whether Dubai will become a pure fake replica of other wonders with no natural home treasures?

For more information visit: www.TheFloatingVenice.com

Jim Belushi’s Brentwood Park Home Hits The Market At 38.5 Million

Los Angeles based actor and comedian, Jim Belushi, best known for his work on “Saturday Night Live” has listed his Italian Style Villa located in prime Brentwood Park for a whopping $38.5 million USD with Hilton & Hyland.  According to Christies International Real Estate, Belushi and his wife have now decided to downsize since their children are now both college-aged.

The 14,000 square foot residence is the result of an expert collaboration between Architect Oscar Shamamian and designer Michael Smith.  Set down a private cobblestone drive on 1.3 acre double lot is the six bedroom and 11 bathroom home, that includes a motor court, guesthouse, and multiple pool houses which surround a 60 foot long pool deck with intimate sitting and alfresco dinning areas.

A collection of high-end finishes were collected from homes all around the globe, including reclaimed travertine from Turkey, fireplace mantels, roof tiles from Venezuela, Italian terra cotta tile floors, custom ironwork, and Moroccan glazed bathroom tiles.  Additionally, the public areas include American hardwood floors and Venetian plaster walls throughout.

One particular highlight of the home is the modern welcoming kitchen designed with an expansive archway as it’s frame.  Located off of the main living area is a hidden passageway which leads to an office and subterranean area with a billiards room, cinema, wine cellar, and spa. The plush master suite features an oversized bathroom, walk-in wardrobe, private stairway to the jacuzzi and cold plunge grotto, as well as expansive views of the home’s surrounding garden & green expanses, to complement the Italian splendor.

Images courtesy of: Hilton & Hyland

Former Malibu Estate of Johnny Carson Lists for 81.5 Million

Sidney Kimmel’s Malibu home which was formerly the residence of “The Tonight Show” Host, Johnny Carson, has been listed for sale with Hilton & Hyland at an asking price of $81.5 million USD. Situated down a private drive with mature trees, an ample four acre property located on a high bluff overlooking the Pacific, is an over 7,000 square foot modern masterpiece designed by famed Malibu architect Ed Niles.

Hallmark features of the residence include a double triangle-shaped living room with 30-foot high ceilings and floor to ceiling glass which frames the home’s dramatic ocean views. Abundant natural light floods the residence’s indoor botanical garden that is devoted to trees.  Unique highlights of this home also include an Asian-inspired lounge, state of the art kitchen, a wine cellar, and formal interior and exterior dinning areas.  Located upstairs is a full floor master suite with advantageous terraces with commanding views; as well as his and hers onyx bathrooms, walk-in closets, and personal offices.

Rich landscaping allows for a truly inspiring experience in the garden with walking paths, a koi pond, waterfalls, a saltwater pool, and direct access to the beach below.  There is a sunken professional tennis court on the property, which was a gift to Johnny Carson from his long time employer, NBC.  Located beside the tennis court is a viewing pavilion offering two lavish bedrooms, a gym, a media room, and walls that open to welcome that fresh Malibu air.  Additionally there is an elevator, guesthouse, property manager’s office, staff facilities, and a security office.

Images courtesy of: Hilton & Hyland