The All New Bentley Continental GT

British Motoring Marque, Bentley, has just announced a full range of details on one of the company’s most highly anticipated vehicles, the all new Continental GT.  The Quintessential Grand Tourer, is given a breath of fresh air in its third-generation platform.  Having been designed, engineered, and handcrafted in Britain, the Continental GT’s third generation is set to be the best yet, combining all the very best of heritage, performance, technology, and handcrafted bespoke luxury set to dominate it’s marketplace.

“Bentley has been at the forefront of luxury Grand Touring for nearly one hundred years. The new, third-generation Continental GT is the pinnacle of our design and engineering achievements and marks the next step in Bentley’s journey.”

“We are the world leader in luxury mobility and our products and services define new luxury in the automotive world. The new Continental GT encapsulates our desire to innovate as well as celebrate our heritage and take the Bentley ownership experience to the next, unparalleled level.”  said Wolfgang Dürheimer, Chairman and Chief Executive of Bentley Motors

Underneath the Bonnet of the all new Continental GT is a modified version of Bentley’s well regarded 6.0-litre, twin-turbocharged W12 making 635 PS (626 bhp) and 900 Nm (664 lb.ft) and a not to sixty time of just 3.6 seconds, with a mind-numbing top speed of 207 miles per hour.  Standout features of the car’s new design include a dual-clutch eight speed transmission, which allows for superior performance and considerably more efficient gear changes.  Bentley has also modified and advanced their adaptive chassis and intelligent 48-volt Dynamic Ride System to improve handling and ride quality, allowing for sublime cruising conditions.

The new Continental GT has received an elegant re-sculpted exterior allowing for an increase in aerodynamics as well as a more chiseled muscular motif.  In turn these changes have allowed for a more driver focused vehicle touting dynamic performance, lightweight-solid construction, and superior weight distribution through a slightly set-back placement of the GT’s engine.

Stepping inside, occupants will notice superior storage volume, increased space for the car’s 2+2 seating arrangement, and an all around more refined interior making for a truly grand experience.  Bentley has put in much effort in seamlessly blending 15 colour palettes across both hides and carpets, in addition a new ‘diamond in diamond’ leather design will be available.

The above demonstrates the British Marque’s devotion to the very finest in designing the all new Continental GT.  Bentley has introduced a new generation which marks continued quality British bespoke production seamlessly merged with cutting edge technology.  Highlights of the model’s technological innovations also include a fully digital instrument panel on the dashboard, as well as a rotating display for improved driver convenience. The all new touchscreen infotainment system/display is 12.3” and promises superior usability housed behind a discreet veneered cover with three dials.

The all new Continental GT is set to make its debut at the IAA Frankfurt Motor Show, which will take place from the 14th through the 24th of September, 2017.

Milan Fashion Week: Moschino, Salvatore Ferragamo, and Versace are Auctioning Tickets for Charity

With Milan Fashion Week Just Around The Corner; it appears to be a pleasant surprise that philanthropic causes are in the air.  Italian Design Houses such as Versace have followed with a charitable campaign, just after Christian Dior announced the #DiorLoveChain in support of the WE Charity.

Up until September 18th & 19th some of Milan’s most well regarded designers including Moschino, Salvatore Ferragamo, and Versace have all collaborated to auction tickets to their upcoming shows during their Women’s S/S 2018 Fashion Shows during Milan Fashion Week.  The auctions are being held by Charity Stars who will donate the funds to a range of foundations selected by the Fashion Houses.

Choices abound for the Fashion lover with Salvatore Ferragamo passes including an invite to their after-show party on Sptember 23rd; with a bid currently at 1,000 Euros.  And Versace offering two tickets to their September 22nd show plus a post show meet and greet with Gianni Versace’s brother & Co-CEO of Versace, Santo Versace.  The current bid is up-to 5,000 Euros for the Versace tickets, with proceeds for both Salvatore Ferragamo’s and Versace’s sales going to benefit Operation Smile.

Skywalker Vineyards has purchased Château Margüi

Skywalker Vineyards has just added the Château Margüi to its growing collection of international boutique wineries & vineyards.  Château Margüi, located in Provence, France has historic ties dating back to the days of ancient Rome.  This new acquisition positions Château Margüi among Skywalkers other estates including ‘Skywalker‘ in Nicasio, California and ‘Sommita‘ in Il Convento in the Province of Umbria, Italy.

“We are excited to include Château Margüi among our exclusive wine properties. It is the perfect complement to our magnificent Italian Estate and the scenic Skywalker Vineyards in California.” – Angelo Garcia, President of Skywalker Properties, and Lucas Real Estate Holdings

The Château Margüi is situated in the beautiful southwestern Bessillon mountain range, surrounded by natural springs, deep canyon rivers and rolling hills.  The Estate and it’s 18th Century Chateau include 40 acres of vineyards, a 7 acre olive grove, and well over 200 acres of forests which include century old trees.  Provence’s growing climate is particularly well suited for producing some brilliant Rosé. Château Margüi produces both a Vin Blanc and Rosé.  The Rosé is made up of Cinsault, Grenache, Syrah, and Vermentino; being characterized by vibrant and elegant crisp grapefruit, lemon and exotic fruit notes.   Later harvests are also highly common in the region allowing for an honest representation of the terroir.  Other characteristics of the region include a unique micro climate, which benefits from a cold wind that travels from the Rhône valley into the mediterranean region; allowing for accelerated ripening.

“In addition to wine-making evolutions, tradition remains important, as we dedicate ourselves to reproducing the biodiversity, stability and resilience of our natural ecosystem, with respect for our terroir.” —Philippe Guillanton, Château Margüi Winery Manager

Bringing the same unique vision, Skywalker’s team is set on the same high standards of organic cultivation at their newest property.  The wines of Château Margüi are a bringing together of old-world winemaking and commitment to sustainable land ownership.  In addition, the vineyard’s plots are AOP Coteaux Varois en Provence classified.  Which requires a very strict process for vine species selection as well as soil preparation in accordance with organic regulations.

Talking Architecture: Interview with Winn Wittman

Meet Winn Wittman, an extraordinary contemporary architect who with a creative mind set and ingenious approach to modern design, turns each of his projects into a one of a kind architectural marvel.  Mr. Wittman attended the University of Texas at Austin to acquire his Masters in Architecture and received his Bachelor’s degree (B.A) from Tufts University.  He is also a member of the American Institute of Architects and the Texas Society of Architects.

Recently, we were given the privilege of speaking with Mr. Wittman on what initially attracted him to contemporary architecture, his unique design process, and how being based in Austin has influenced his current architectural creations.

Where would you pinpoint the origin of your interest in architecture? When did you first realize that this was the space you wanted to be a part of?

“I like your word “space” both because it refers to the clay that architects shape, and also because I’ve never felt as though I completely fit within the confines of the “profession” of architecture or the “discipline” of architecture. Maybe the moment I realized that architecture was for me was the moment I realized that I could define the “space” I wanted, within the field of architecture.

When I got to college I really had no idea what I wanted to do. I knew I loved architecture and art and design, but I was unsure of my path initially.  I studied everything from English literature to human factors engineering and piano.  One day, my favorite professor at Tufts, Margaret Floyd suggested I go down to Austin and take a look at their graduate program in Architecture. She said: “Winn, Boston is way too parochial for you; you should go to Texas” And like Davey Crockett, who famously said: “You can go to hell, and I will go to Texas”, I set off and have never looked back. It’s funny how one suggestion, if it rings true, can impact the trajectory of one’s life.”

Talk us through your design process.

“My design process has evolved a lot over the years. It’s gotten easier, and a lot more fun. I’m less challenged by the design part and more curious about the human aspect.  I want my homes to live well, and I want people to live well in them. Designing someone’s home is very personal, and there is a lot of psychology involved. A husband and a wife don’t always have an identical vision for their new home, and people don’t always feel the freedom to express what they want. You have to draw it out of them. People usually have a clearer idea of what they don’t want. In fact, Henry Ford once said “If I’d asked people what they wanted, they would have said faster horses.”

Sometimes it’s easier to ask people what they want in the bedroom than to ask them what they want for their bedroom.

The design process itself is a process of sequential iterations. With each iteration, the design exposes itself like a photograph developing in a tray of liquid. We start 3D modeling early in our design process, and it helps our clients visualize our intentions in a way that was never possible when I started 20 years ago.”

 Which of your projects do you believe embodies your creativity to the utmost extent?

“We recently finished the Manta House, a 15,000 square-foot mountaintop home. It’s very organic and it was very challenging to design, and honestly pretty painful to execute. But we learned a great deal – for example how to create a metal roof with 5,000 tiles and compound curves that didn’t leak. For me now, creativity is not only about form, but about developing the best solution for the client and the building.”

 What do you believe are some of your firm’s standout skills?

“One is the ability to listen. The other is an ability to adapt our practice to embrace new technologies — whether they are working methods or materials.

Screen-sharing technology has opened up our ability to work with clients regardless of their location. Building Information Modeling (BIM) allows us to change one aspect of the design and the other parts automatically update. And parametric modeling uses AI to help us design.”

How has being based in Austin, Texas influenced your work?

“Austin, like California, tends to be hilly. There’s (relatively speaking) lots of space. The land is very inspiring and the strong light is relentless. There’s always been an attitude of freedom in Austin. And in retrospect, I’m fortunate to have settled in a place where there is a strong demand for great contemporary architecture.”

Can you tell us about any of the projects that you are currently working on?

“Some of the highlights are a large multi-generational home for an Indian family, a lake house with an acrylic pool which allows light into the basement, and a home for my family which is cut into the side of a very steep hillside and is barely visible from the street.”

Who are some architects that you have garnered inspiration from?

“Le Corbusier inspired me with his sculptural approach to architecture, and his ability to master both painting and architecture. Carlo Scarpa had great symbolism in his work. I learned from these two that architecture doesn’t have to be completely rational and that there can be a sense of mystery.”

Where can we follow you?

               Website:  www.winnwittman.com   

              Facebook:  @ArchitectAustin

               Houzz:  Houzz.com/winn-wittman-architecture

Photo Credits:

Images 1-3 by: Dylan VanDam

Image 4 by:  Coles Hairston

Mecum’s 34 Million Dollar Auction at Monterey Car Week

Taking place this year at the Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel and Spa on the world renowned Del Monte Golf Course was the prestigious Mecum Daytime Auction, which sold a total of 328 vehicles for a overall sales sum of $34 million.  The auction was simply phenomenal as it featured not one, but three contemporary supercars that eclipsed all other lots with a netted price exceeding at least the million dollar margin.

There was many wonderful automobiles to see during the auction, but what really took the spotlight were these three:  The 2014 Ferrari LaFerrari that arrived with only 565 original miles was realized for a lofty $3.45 million, thereby stealing first place for the top 10 sales at the Monterey 2017 Daytime Auction.  Following the 2014 Ferrari LaFerrari’s lead was the Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport Vitesse, which was limited to just 150 examples, and sold for $2.35 million.  And let’s not forget third place that belonged to yet another Ferrari, the 2017 Ferrari F12tdf, which was hammered for $1.25 million.

For the complete list of top 10 sales (including their respective lot numbers) at this year’s Mecum Monterey Daytime Auction, please see below:

• 2014 Ferrari LaFerrari (Lot S102) at $3,450,000
• 2015 Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport Vitesse (Lot S116) at $2,350,000
• 2017 Ferrari F12tdf (Lot S79) at $1,250,000
• 2004 Porsche Carrera GT (Lot S83) at $985,000
• 1988 Porsche 959 Komfort (Lot S113) at $950,000
• 2015 Ferrari 458 Speciale Aperta (Lot S126) at $620,000
• 1963 Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud III Drophead Coupe (Lot S110) at $610,000
• 2006 Ford GT Heritage Edition (Lot S77) at $420,000
• 1965 Shelby GT350 Fastback (Lot S36) at $385,000
• 2011 Porsche 911 Speedster (Lot S86) at $340,000

Please note that individual prices do not include buyer’s premiums

Featured Image Courtesy of:  Mecum.com

The Limited Edition Gunther Werks 400R: An Old Porsche Made New

Gunther Werks, a Southern California based company with a passion for renewing the awe inspiring Porsche® 993, revealed their highly coveted concept dubbed the 400R at The Quail during famed Monterey Car Week.  Gunther Werks has planned to produce just 25 examples of the 400R; based on the platform of the Porsche® 993, the guys at Gunther Werks completely re-engineer the vehicle by hand for their passionate Porsche® enthusiast clients.

The 400R will include modern updates, but continue to uphold the famous parts that make the 993, one of the most collectible 911 variants.  New incorporations on the 400R include a widened body and sculpted bumpers.  The 400R features a handbuilt 4.0 liter, 400 horsepower, naturally aspirated engine, which has been tested by Oregon-based Rothsport Racing to ensure its perfection.  The 400R is highly performance oriented, featuring large 315/30/18 rear tires and top of the range coilovers.

“Aesthetically and technologically, the 993 is considered by many multiple decade Porsche aficionados as the last real Porsche,” said car collector and Porsche enthusiast, Peter Nam, CEO of Gunther Werks. “With the 400R, we set out to build a car that incorporated modern technology while still appealing to the enthusiasts who covet these cars today. In essence, the 400R is the car we imagine Porsche would have built if the advanced technology within the 400R was available.”

The 400R allows for it’s interior to be customized to a client’s particular taste.  Specific upgrades include both alcantara and leather selections, bucket seats reminiscent of the 993 race cars, carbon fibre accents, a five dial dashboard with center rev counter, and a half cage behind the driver’s seat.

Clients have the choice of either providing their own road-legal 1994-1999 993 Series Porsche® 911® Coupe for the transformation or Gunther Werks can select a suitable example to serve as the base of the 400R conversion. Initial deliveries of the 400R are scheduled for early 2018.  The conversion cost?  Just a mere $525,000 USD.

Azimut Yachts Adds Four New Models

Azimut Yachts have announced four new models that have entered their range, which include the Azimut Grande 35METRI, Azimut Grande 27METRI, Azimut S7 and Azimut 60 Flybridge that will debut at international boat shows in the Fall of 2017.

With expert design by long time Azimut & Benetti Yacht Architect, Stefano Righini, who has made these four new models truly ground breaking examples of cutting edge design.  The Azimut Grande 35METRI & 27METRI are new additions to the Grand Collection, with standout features that include extensive use of carbon fibre to make for additional space, speed, increased stability, and decreased weight.

The Grande 27METRI benefits from a wide body allowing for unparalleled on board spaces within it’s class.  Stand out features among the yacht’s layout is a full beam master stateroom located on the main deck, as well as a lower deck that is customizable to offer either three or four guest cabins.  Interior design has been completed by Achille Salvagni, who has been featured as one of the top designers in the AD Collector’s top 100 by Elle Decor.  Achille Salvagni is well regarded for contemporary interior design with motif inspiration from the not so modern Italian Renaissance, allowing for an unrivaled warm interpretation.

Moving unto the Grande 35METRI, we learn that this new model is the flagship to Azimut’s Grand Collection.  The yacht has a wide body like the 27METRI, yet also features a sleek raised pilot house, floor to ceiling windows, a spacious sundeck, as well as a balcony off of the owner’s stateroom that extends over the water.  In addition, the 35METRI includes a miniature deployable beach club at the stern.  Interior design on this model is also completed by Achille Salvagni.

Brilliantly sculpted by Stefano Righini, is the very sleek Azimut 60 Flybridge.  The Azimut 60 offers a range of innovative solutions, which include full height windows, aggressive lines, a well portioned flybridge, and various private lounge areas.  On the Azimut 60, Achille Salvagni worked with three unique varieties of wood in collaboration with sleek steel & brass to allow for a modern, warm, and elegant italian flare throughout.

New to Azimut’s sport collection is the 21 meter S7, offering the epitome of an uncompromising blend of design and performance.  The blend of carbon in the S7’s superstructure allows for an increase in volume without compromising the yacht’s performance.  “Fast, silent and extremely manoeuvrable” is how Azimut describes the S7, offering segment leading space including four cabins and a garage that can house two water toys.  Interior design on the S7 has been carried out by Francesco Guida.

These four new models will make their debut at the Cannes Yachting Festival, this September (12th-17th), in which Azimut will have 19 of their yachts displayed.  Azimut will also have a special lounge at the festival where owners of Azimut Grande models can enjoy special hospitality as part of the Azimut Dolce Vita 3.0 lifestyle.  Azimut will be promoting seven models under 72 feet at the Genoa Boat Show from September 21st through the 26th.  From the 27th to the 30th, Azimut will also be returning to the Monaco Yacht Show to display the Grande 35METRI and the Grande 30METRI.  For the final stop of Azimut’s Fall tour, the shipyard will visit the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show from November 1st to the 5th to introduce their four new models to the American market.  Azimut will also be hosting a lounge for Azimut Grande owners at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show.  Azimut has more debuts to come for 2018 at the Boot Dusseldorf in January.  For the promotion of yachts over 72 feet, Azimut will be at the Versilia Rendez-Vous this coming Spring, set to be held from May 10th through the 13th of 2018.

McLaren Special Operations delivers “Fux Fuchsia” 720S at Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance

A one of a kind McLaren 720S finished in Fux Fuchsia made its debut at the 67th annual Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance during famed Monterey Car Week, where it became a leading centerpiece of the event for the various automotive enthusiasts who were in attendance.  The Bespoke division of McLaren Special Operations (MSO) designed and then forged this distinctive McLaren to the personal specifications of entrepreneur and philanthropist, Michael Fux.  The Chief Executive Officer of McLaren Automotive, Mike Flewitt, conferred the supercar to Michael Fux just before it was put on display at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance Concept Lawn on Sunday, August 20th.

This McLaren 720S features a unique exterior paint colour, an aspect only found on McLaren’s designed to order cars, which is a service available to every McLaren customer through McLaren Special Operations.  Mr. Fux’s McLaren is in ‘Fux Fuchsia’, a colour specially contrived for Michael Fux by Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Limited and later on being enhanced by MSO.  This colour is also exclusive to Mr. Fux as he owns the rights for its usage, making any other McLaren vehicle restricted from bearing ‘Fux Fuchsia’ on its exterior design.

“Challenging the art of the possible to meet the most demanding customer requirements and then delivering beyond expectations are integral to the service that McLaren Special Operations offers,” commented Jolyon Nash, McLaren Automotive Executive Director, Global Sales and Marketing. “MSO provides McLaren owners with virtually limitless possibilities to tailor a car exactly to their needs and tastes; unique paint colours and finishes, custom leather and stitching and exotic materials are all available within a bespoke commission, while beyond this there are opportunities all the way up to complete vehicles designed to individual specification.”

‘Fux Fuchsia’ is emblazoned on the car’s lightweight wheels, conflicting with the platinum finish of the alloy.  The distinctive colour, which is also featured on the steering wheel as well as rear-view mirrors, complements its MSO Bespoke white leather with white stitching and white Alcantara floor mats.  Additionally, the vehicle’s exhaust and window surrounds are in Stealth gray finish while carbon fibre elements from MSO Defined range have been further particularized.  These specific features can be ordered on each and every McLaren, of any colour of their choosing (that is as long as it is not ‘Fux Fuchsia’).

The expected price range varies on an MSO Bespoke commission, and due to this the financial details regarding this matter are not disclosed.  But if the McLaren 720S is in Luxury specification the car would be priced at £218,020 (UK) or $281,880 (US)

Visit Cars.McLaren.com for more details.

An Elegant Scent: Floris London 71/72 For Turnbull & Asser

In 2015 fine clothier Turnbull & Asser began their initial collaboration with historic perfume maker and Jermyn Street neighbor, Floris, to create a scent that perfectly represented their brands elegant quintessential style.  Floris is the oldest independent family owned perfumer in the world.  Founded by Juan Famenias Floris in 1730 at 89 Jermyn Street (where they still stand today), Floris has catered scents to individuals such as Marilyn Monroe, HM King George IV and HM Queen Elizabeth II over their nearly 300 year history. With that said, it is no surprise why Turnbull & Asser commissioned Floris’s industry leading expertise in the creation of the 71/72 scent.  Owing the new scent’s name to the Turnbull & Asser boutique located at 71/72 Jermyn Street – London.

As soon as the new bespoke fragrance was offered for sale it nearly instantly captivated Turnbull & Asser’s devoted clientele.  In turn the demand soon exceeded their inventory.  Alast, on August 30^th  Turnbull & Asser will be offering a limited edition scent named 71/72 Eau De Parfum.  The scent is characterized by notes of mandarin, juniper, ground spice, warm oud, sandalwood, boisamber and frankincense; allowing for an elegant bespoke year round scent.  The 71/72 Eau De Parfum will retail online and in-store for $190 USD.

A Guide to Krakow Art Galleries

With a rich cultural history and a budding abundance of contemporary art, Poland is rife with diverse artistic venues sure to please any visitor. The ideals of cultural diversity, innovation, inclusivity, and preservation are especially embodied in the plurality of museums, galleries and even Krakow’s street art.  

The cultural experience in this historic city is akin to an artistic feast, filling travelers to the brim. Art lovers seeking ancient, international, contemporary, or any other art genre can take part in the cornucopia which Krakow has to offer. We prepared for you a guide to the artistic, both traditional and progressive, side of this medieval city.

Ancient, Medieval, and Early Modern Art

National Museum in Krakow

The National Museum in Krakow is both the oldest and largest national museum in the country. It includes ten branches and about 900,000 exhibits in its collection, spanning across 12 buildings.

Recently, in a move particularly noteworthy to admirers of Renaissance art, the museum subsumed the Princes Czartoryski Museum, including such works as da Vinci’s “Lady with an Ermine”. The National Museum also hosts a multitude of other ancient, medieval, and early modern works in its permanent and temporary exhibits.

Global Art

Manggha Center of Japanese Art and Technology

Functioning as both a museum and cultural center, the Manggha Center of Japanese Art and Technology seeks to promote an interdisciplinary approach to art.

Although it focuses on the visual arts, the museum’s scope also includes theater, philosophy, film, literature, and many other aspects of Japanese culture. From ukiyo-e woodblock prints to robotic workshops for children, one can expect an eclectic experience with depth and diversity sure to enrich any visitor. The center’s interactive emphasis makes it a popular site even for those new to Japanese art.

International Culture Center (MCK)

The International Culture Center seeks to facilitate intercultural dialogue and broadly protect cultural heritage, predominantly that of Central Europe.

Currently, the center is exhibiting the works of Croatian sculptor and architect, Ivan Meštrović. His works have been integral for communicating Croatian cultural diversity to Europe and the United States, embodying the values of the MCK.

In the center, visitors can expect an intimate and powerful global perspective.

Contemporary

Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCAK)

Though only active since 2010, MOCAK has emerged as a stronghold of contemporary art. Emphasizing post-war avant-garde and conceptual art, the museum seeks to educate visitors on the cultural and ethical value of contemporary works.

Featuring such artists as Marina Abramovic, Ai WeiWei, Reza Aramesh and Polish art personalities: Jonasz Stern, Leon Tarasewicz and Pawel Althamer, MOCAK hosts a range of exhibits confronting a wide range of topics such as gender, intercultural communication between Israel and Poland, and the role of art in society.

Visitors can also enjoy the museum’s cafe and bookshop between visiting exhibits and interactive art pieces.

Bunkier Sztuki

Located right at the edge of Krakow’s Old Town the Bunker of Arts is known as Krakow’s bastion of contemporary works. The collection includes video media, photography, and interactive exhibits.

The museum also holds the international art project “Trauma & Revival,” a years-long project which expresses both Eastern and Western European post-war artistic experiences. Also featured are the works of Ines Doujak, Rupali Patil, and Justyna Medrala, among others.

Polish Cultural Heritage

The Palace of Arts

Seating the oldest Fine Arts Society in Central Europe within its Art Nouveau walls, Palace of Arts began with the intention of promoting Polish artists. Since its inauguration in 1901, the Palace of Arts has come to also house temporary exhibits of contemporary art from both Polish and international artists and one of the most vibrant Krakow’s museums.

The Palace of Arts is currently exhibiting the paintings of Juliusz Joniak, as well as a collection of photography from General Wladyslaw Klimczak, who played a prominent role in the independence of Poland.

Poster Gallery

The Poster Gallery in Krakow is a space for visitors to encounter some of Poland’s rich tradition in poster art. It is home to thousands of posters for film, music, literature, and more; further, it hosts exhibitions, organizes theme poster competitions, and produces a catalogue.

This is the perfect site for graphic art lovers looking to see rare and fascinating designs. Additionally, any visitor is sure to find a previously-unknown poster for their favorite film, book, and/or album.