For more than 130 years, Aston Martin has defined timeless elegance and British handcrafted luxury within the automotive world. Aston Martin is translating its precision engineering and design innovation for the company’s first ever foray into luxury residential development. Aston Martin Residences in Miami is anticipated to become one of the country’s most sought-after addresses upon its completion in 2022, with a prestigious exclusivity and one-of-a-kind edifice that represents the pinnacle of elegant living, while setting a global benchmark in luxury residential design. For its vision of the 66-story tower located on the Miami River at 300 Biscayne Boulevard Way in downtown Miami, Aston Martin has partnered with global property developer, G&G Business Developments, founded by CEO, German Coto, whose creative ethos is “Love for beauty and passion for excellence.” Designed by Revuelta Architecture and Bodas Miani Anger Architects, with interiors inspired by Aston Martin, the tallest residential development south of New York will encompass the beauty of Miami’s tropical environment.

Authenticity and Honesty of Materials At Aston Martin Residences Set A New Paradigm in Luxury Interior Design

At the core of Aston Martin’s heritage and evolution is a guiding principal that adheres to the utmost honesty in authenticity of materials that are used in the fundamental design process—from inception to final presentation. The interior design elements at Aston Martin Residences bring the greatest sense of integrity and refinement to the development with a graceful aura that residents will experience in every detail. The vision for this exceptional interior craftsmanship has brought three of nature’s finest materials to Miami, that will be woven into the luxury fabric of the Aston Martin lifestyle. From the shores of ancient Greece, white Thassos marble is imported to bring an aesthetic brilliance of light and radiance to the floors of every residence; Aston Martin’s signature leather, originating from the Scottish Highlands, will accentuate specific touchpoints for the condominiums and common areas, and natural Red Oak from the woodlands of North America and Canada will be available for wall and home furnishings at the resident’s discretion.

“Our design language is based on beauty and the honesty and authenticity of materials,” says Marek Reichman, EVP and Chief Creative Officer at Aston Martin. “It’s simple and pure and it has an elegance attached to beautiful proportions. We are incorporating Aston Martin’s DNA through subtle details and fine craftsmanship, with an emphasis on comfort. This building is for people who appreciate the finest quality and craftsmanship, who love the feeling of something that is timeless.”

From the Emerald Island and the jewel of the North Aegean Sea to the turquoise Miami River, the finest Thassos marble will journey from Greece across the Atlantic Ocean to its new home at Aston Martin Residences in Miami—one of the country’s rare properties that offers finished floors with such a uniquely superior quality. Marble is derived from the Greek word Marmaros, meaning ‘shining stone,’ and Grecian marble is considered to be of a world-class calibre with unquestionable historical value. Throughout history, iconic sculptures, statues and architectural masterpieces have been carved from variations of this beautiful metamorphic rock. The celebrated Winged Victory of Samothrace sculpture from the second century B.C. is one example, and recently, Thassos marble has been used to restore the Parthenon Temple in Athens. Marble has become an icon of culture, tradition and refined taste. In folklore, it is associated with the astrological sign of Gemini and viewed as a symbol of purity and immortality. Revered for its crystal white hue that reflects the sun’s rays, this brilliant-white stone from Thassos is one of the most beautiful and precious in the world. The feeling of well-being and tranquillity that it conveys calms visitors to any space it inhabits.

Aston Martin Residences has a refined and elegant design aesthetic, so the world’s finest marble with unbeatable clarity, beauty and durability has been specified for the floors of the residences and penthouses. Approximately 1,400,000 square feet of Thassos marble has been hand-selected for its characteristics that perfectly compliment the clean proportions of Aston Martin Residences. When residents walk through the impressive entrance door into the lobby, they will be welcomed by a serene haven and a bright, airy aesthetic. As each homeowner steps into their own apartment or penthouse, the feeling of timeless elegance will endure with smooth and luxurious Thassos marble floors throughout each room.

“For the floors of the condos and penthouses, we chose the finest snow-white Thassos marble from Greece,“ says German Coto, CEO of G&G Business Developments. “Known for its beauty and durability, I enjoy the sense of calmness it brings to any room. We hand-selected 1,400,000 square feet of marble of extraordinary purity from Thassos because its characteristics fit perfectly with the Aston Martin Residences. We’re building an exquisite residential development in the heart of downtown Miami, and it’s essential for me that the visual impact, both inside and out, epitomizes contemporary design.”

For more than a century, Aston Martin selects the world’s finest leather for its automotive interiors, classic accessories and home furnishings. Its signature Balmoral leather from the Scottish Highlands is a true testament to the company’s lasting commitment to the honesty and authenticity of materials used within Aston Martin Residences. Leather accents and detailed fixtures will come in the form of kestrel tan leather door tabs and bespoke artisan handles on the doors of each residence, with variations on the doorways of common areas throughout the building. Balmoral leather comes from The Highland, a Scottish breed of rustic cattle, originating in the Scottish Highlands and the Balmoral region. Known for its long horns and a long shaggy coat, the hardy breed is bred to withstand the intemperate weather conditions and repels insects from damaging its skin due to its thick hair, resulting in a pristine quality of leather. The first herd dates back to 1885, making it the oldest type of cattle in the world. Balmoral Castle has been the Scottish home of the Royal Family since it was purchased for Queen Victoria by Prince Albert in 1852. The Balmoral leather boot was designed for Prince Albert as a quality walking boot to wear on the grouse moors of his Scottish estate. The leather was naturally waterproof to protect his feet from the wet gorse. Queen Victoria also took a liking to the style and had several pairs made for herself, whereby women adapted the leather boots for daywear before they were eventually called Balmoral boots, a popular and classic style even today.

Owners will have the opportunity to work with the Aston Martin design team to customize the interiors of their home to a particular specification. Residents will have the option to install custom-built furnishings or wall fixtures made from natural Red Oak, a premium quality wood that is grown in the northernmost rural states of the U.S. Red Oak is a native of eastern and mid-west America and southeast and south-central Canada. The red oak group as a whole is more abundant today than when European settlement of North America began. Red Oak is of a premium value and used in construction as well as flooring, veneer, interior trim, finishes of houses, and for the highest quality furniture when carefully treated. Arguably the most popular hardwood in the United States, Red Oak is a ubiquitous fixture in luxury homes. Hard, strong, and moderately priced, Red Oak presents an exceptional value to woodworkers—which explains why it is so widely used in high-end cabinet and furniture making. The northern Red Oak has been a favorite of both lumbermen and landscapers since colonial times. The tree has also found favor when transplanted in Europe. It is believed that Bishop Compton’s garden, near Fulham in England, received the first Red Oak transplant abroad in the late 17th century.

“I’m obsessed with design, and I’m resolute that every decision we make, and every material we select will complement our pure and elegant design aesthetic,” says German Coto, CEO of G&G Business Developments. “As soon as Aston Martin was on board, a company ready to work hand-in-hand with our architects and designers to achieve a luxury style and authentic design experience, it set the tone for the entire project. At G&G, our ethos is ‘Love for beauty and passion for excellence,’ as a way of life that guides every decision we make on the projects we undertake.”

Every aspect of Aston Martin Residence has been measured to meet the needs of today’s modern and cosmopolitan lifestyles, which is why Aston Martin’s design team has specified the finest in authentic materials to conform to its own artful and classic heritage. Aston Martin Residences, located at 300 Biscayne Boulevard Way in Miami, will consist of 391 luxury residences and penthouses priced from $970,000 to upwards of $50 million. Construction is scheduled for completion in 2022.

Visit Aston Martin Residences on Instagram @AMResidencesMiami and astonmartinresidences.com

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Celebrating Bugatti’s 110th anniversary, the French car manufacturer, introduces the smallest member of its family, dubbed the Baby II. Limited to a mere 500 builds, this high-performance automobile represents a modern tribute to Italian-born designer and brand founder, Ettore Bugatti’s half-scale Type 35.

Bugatti Marks It’s 110th Anniversary With The Exclusive, High-Performance Baby II

Initially constructed in 1926 for his youngest son, Roland’s fourth birthday, the car which Ettore had intended to be a one-off present, soon became an official Bugatti vehicle, entering production and sold between 1927 and 1936. Cherished by Bugatti enthusiasts worldwide, today no collection is complete without a Baby. However, with only around 500 ever made, they have been the preserve of the lucky few.

Unlike the original, which was only suitable for the youngest drivers, the Baby II is a three-quarters-size replica of the Bugatti Type 35, accommodating both adult and children drivers. With the aim to enable enthusiasts from across generations to share the love of driving and of the classic marque of Bugatti, the Baby II thus features a rear-wheel-drive battery-powered electric powertrain, a removable lithium-ion battery pack, a limited slip differential, and regenerative braking.

Available in two selectable power modes, including a 1kW ‘novice mode’ with top speeds of 20km/h, and a 4kW ‘expert mode’ capable of accelerating to speeds of 45km/h, plus an optional ‘speed key’ upgrade which allows a power top-up of up to 10kW whilst disengaging the speed meter.

Launching almost a century after its predecessor, the Baby II has been created using the latest technology, but with the utmost respect for Bugatti’s automotive heritage. Hand-built with the aid of a precise digital scan of the original Type 35, built for the 1924 French Grand Prix in Lyon, this all-new ride showcases the brand’s iconic ‘Macaron’ badge, made of 50g of solid silver, alongside its own unique plaque and chassis number.

Complete with a signature turned aluminium dashboard, leather seating, custom instruments, and scale recreation of the Type 35’s distinctive four-spoke steering wheel, the Baby II is coated in an array of immaculate colourways, including the traditional French Racing Blue.

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Constructed in the early 1990s to only be completed by 1997, the Los Vilos House was once a weekend retreat for the late Chilean architect, Cristián Boza, his wife and their four children. Topped by an undulating concrete wall that protects its open-air roof terrace from the natural elements, the residence is characterised by its winding yellow walls and circular swimming pool. Designed with the help of his wife Diana Wilson, the residence also boasts an in-house sauna and jacuzzi, which overlook the sea.

The Cliff-Hanging Los Vilos House By Cristián Boza Represents Timeless Typology

Measuring six by 25 meters, Boza’s terrace cascades into a short, outdoor stairwell, showcasing spectacular views of the South Pacific Ocean and skyline. As an elevated bridge links the private pool to the house, the residence itself extends across the site, from the highest peak down to the fishing villages below, through the inclusion of a palatial walkaway.

Built from local stone flank, punctured with enormous windows and doors, the Los Vilos House features an elevated metal chimney reaching beyond the central lounge and into a slender mezzanine level with storage for books. Interconnected by a series of doorways, the dining room provides easy access to the kitchen and master bedroom, whilst the remaining four bedrooms are strategically positioned to the rear, infiltrated via multiple stone paths.

Once the dean of architecture at the San Sebastián University, Cristián Boza was revered for his controversially critical eye typology, with an extensive resume of successful projects including The Santiago Justice Center, the Quinta Normal River Park, the Bellavista headquarters of the San Sebastián University, and a number of houses for Chilean president Sebastián Piñera.

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Developed with a single goal and philosophy in mind, Detroit’s first purpose-built prototype race car was intended to beat Ferrari at Le Mans. Carrying tremendous significance and influence over the future of automobile production, the 1964 prototype GT/105 marks one of the world’s most original GT40s to ever grace the market.

The 1964 Prototype GT/105 Which Helped Secure Ford’s Le Mans Domination Goes On Sale

Combining the expertise of the greatest engineers from either side of the Atlantic and an unlimited budget, Ford Motor Company had Abbey Panels in Coventry construct the first GT40, which encompassed a Ford 256 V8 Indy engine and Colotti T37 4-speed gearbox, alongside a high-tech monocoque chassis and powerful V8 engine, in March 1964. As one of five GT40 models created, the 1964 prototype GT/105 helped crown Ford Motor Company as the first American manufacturer to clench victory.

Today, only three test cars remain existing in the world, with two under permanent ownership by the Shelby Museum to celebrate its achievements and history. Never damaged or modified, the 1964 prototype GT/105 carries an unbroken, and fully documented chain of ownership, as the car’s original engineer, John Etheridge, promises that GT/105 retains its original chassis, along with all the little scars and modifications from its three years of development at the Ford factory.

Representing the era’s victorious Anglo-American effort, the 1964 prototype GT/105 performed an integral part in securing Ford’s eventual Le Mans domination.

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Adventurous, movable, unsinkable, and autonomous. Made in France, the Anthenia pod aims to instill an incredible feeling of freedom to its guests. Branded as a both a “cozy nest” and “ship for earth people”, each pod is fully equipped to fit inexperienced navigators, offering a multitude of endless possibilities in discovering virgin territories, whilst maintaining the highest standard of hotel accommodation and service. Conceived to embrace mother nature’s every mood without causing damage, the eco-deluxe Anthenia pod represents a timeless experience.

The 100% Recyclable Anthenia Pod Promises an Autonomous Tourist Experience

Addressing the innumerable environmental challenges of our time, including rising sea levels, the effects of climate change, the over-density of the seaboard, and congested tourist destinations, the Anthenia pod’s spherical shape is based on the principle of ‘surface tension’ observed in nature, which, according to its designers, is the optimal form of resistance to extreme conditions on the water.

Complete with an adjustable sunshade roof, 12 solarium seaters, solar panels, a panoramic bathtub, and 220 cm bedding diameter, the pod is 100% recyclable, with a well-researched design capable of resisting cataclysms and the rise of oceans. Powered solely by the sun, the floating habitat not only features an energy sensor dome that meets the electrical and hot water needs, but is also equipped with certified black and gray water stations, producing only what it consumes, and releasing clean water only.

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How To Pick The Perfect Jewellery Gift | Xennox Diamonds

5 Tips for Successful Jewellery Gifting

Jewellery makes for one of those special gifts, perfect for just about any occasion. Afterall, who doesn’t love receiving dazzling jewels to show off?

It can highlight how much you care for a person, and the recipient can show you how much they appreciate the gift by wearing it regularly. Most jewellery, particularly well-crafted pieces, will also turn into a gift that keeps on giving. A person can hand something treasured down through generations as a family heirloom, and you will always be part of that story.

So, how do you make sure that your present will hit the right spot? Follow these 5 valuable tips to picking the perfect jewellery gift and you will nail that gift every time.

1. Pay Attention to the Person You are Shopping For

When you start to research your gift, the person wearing the jewellery is more important than the jewellery itself. Pay attention to what they already have and what they like to wear. Obviously, it is not a good idea to get them something too like what they already own, but you can certainly draw inspiration from their favourite pieces.

Next, take note of what jewellery they wear. If the person wears a necklace that never gets taken off, buying them another one may not be a worthwhile gift as they are not likely to wear it. However, if they love to chop and change between different rings on their fingers, a special addition to their collection will likely go down a treat.

Finally, look at their style and fashion choices. Are they more into keeping up with current trends or do they prefer a timeless and classic look? Do they like big and shiny bling, or is understated and simple more their thing? All of this will help you narrow your search to a style.

1. Make Sure The Gift Matches The Relationship

Buying someone a diamond ring for their birthday when you may have only been dating for a short time is probably not going to go down well. On the other hand, a plain chain for a 25-year anniversary is not suitable either. You need to think about how well you know the person, what you mean to each other and what the occasion is.

Jewellery, especially something of quality, is often a statement about the relationship you have with the recipient. You wouldn’t necessarily buy the same item for a parent as you would for a significant other, even if both are celebrating a birthday. This is because different types of jewellery have different meanings or symbolism. A ring is seen as a commitment or a promise to someone and is usually reserved for romantic relationships.

The occasion for giving a gift is always a major consideration when shopping. If it’s a milestone anniversary or a big birthday you should definitely consider spending more or going for something a bit more timeless. For the years in between, you could have a bit more fun and think outside the box.

1. Remember That Size Matters

This goes back to considering the person you are buying the gift for and their specific tastes in fashion and jewellery. Say you have done your research and you have decided on a bracelet as the perfect gift. You need to make sure that your gift fits!

Firstly, the bracelet should fit comfortably around the wearer’s wrist – not too loose or too tight. Secondly, think about the size of the chain and the stones that make up the bracelet. Should they be small and delicate, or big and chunky? Neither is right or wrong on their own, but they can look very wrong on the wearer if they don’t suit their style.

Remember, bigger is not always better if the person will not want to wear it, and this goes for all jewellery types and gemstones too. While you may love the idea of splashing out on a huge sparkler, the recipient may not be wild about wearing such an obvious piece and would prefer a smaller, more subtle gift.

1. Get the Best Quality for your Money

If you are giving a gift that you want to be around for a long time and worn regularly, then quality is of utmost importance.

For one thing, a plated metal will not look good with regular wear. It will start to chip or flake off over time, leaving the cheaper metal below exposed. The worst part about this is the cheaper metal is usually copper or brass, which can leave a nasty green or blue stain on the wearer’s skin. It is much better to go for pure silver if you cannot afford gold or platinum instead of getting something that’s gold plated, as plated will shine nicely to begin with but will not stay that way for long.

1. Ask The Experts

If you are going to make a big purchase, it is always a good idea to get an opinion from an expert with credibility whom you can trust. They can help you appraise the quality of the stones, how secure the settings are, and how well the item will wear over time. You can then buy the piece knowing that you are getting the best value for your preferred price.

When it comes to buying diamonds and other precious stones, it is good to ask for information on the stone. An expert should be able to give you the full report on the stone and offer you alternate options.  They should be able to offer you total transparency, and if they cannot divulge the details, it is best to look elsewhere and know exactly what you are buying.

Jewellery makes a wonderful gift for just about every occasion. With this guide, you can ensure that whatever you buy will be treasured and worn for years to come.

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Ferretti Yachts 670 Asian Premiere Showcases Regional Favourite

Ferretti Group staged the Asian premiere of the Ferretti Yachts 670 in Hong Kong, although the newly arrived stock boat is the fifth unit to arrive in the region, following earlier deliveries of the 67ft motor yacht to two clients in Hong Kong, and also to Singapore and Hainan, China. The international order book for the FY670 currently stands at 25.

The Ferretti Yachts 670 has been delivered to Hong Kong, Singapore and Sanya

The Asian showcase was held at the Ferretti Group’s service yard in Ap Lei Chau in Hong Kong, which is the home of the conglomerate’s Asia-Pacific headquarters.

 

The 20.2m model debuted at the 2018 Cannes Yachting Festival and is the brand’s first with an exterior by Filippo Salvetti, the Lombardy-based naval architect who has also designed the upcoming 500 and flagship 1000, due to launch next year. Interiors are designed by Ferretti Group.

The Ferretti Yachts 670 has a large flybridge

Fabiomassimo Discoli, Ferretti Group Asia-Pacific’s Director of Sales and Marketing, said the Asia-based owners have been impressed by the sporty exterior lines and luxurious interior of this Category A, three-cabin yacht.

“It’s very rare for a vessel of this size to be a Category A yacht,” Discoli says. “It means that the level of safety has to be very high, which takes a lot of additional time and cost in design and building, but owners tell us they really appreciate this.”

The hydraulic swim platform can gently glides down into the water

One standout innovative approach towards safety aboard is the motorised hydraulic swim platform, which, as it gently glides down and outward at a 45-degree angle against the transom, reveals a mini stairwell for an easy ascent to and from the water, in comparison to the steep vertical ladder-type steps more commonly installed.

An attractive aspect of the standard cabin configuration that has also impressed Asian and global clients is the size of the full-beam, split-level master cabin, Discoli says, pointing out its generous study-cum-dressing table area as we inspect the lower deck.

The impressive main-deck interior is across two levels

 

This private office is situated port side on the way down into the 237sqft (22sqm) master suite, which also features a spacious ensuite bathroom and walk-in wardrobe. Layout options include a fourth cabin with bunk beds where the study is located.

Located midships to make the most of the 17ft 6in (5.4m) beam and the stability sweet spot – enhanced by two Seakeeper NG6 gyro stabilisers – the master is completely insulated from engine sound as the twin MAN V8 1,200hp engines are mounted aft and housed two bulkheads away, with a crew cabin and head acting as a buffer.

Highlights include the portside study in the split-level master suite

The roomy ensuite VIP is forward, while the twin cabin and adjacent day head are to starboard. All cabins have at headroom of at least 6ft 9in (2.05m) and can be finished in matt and polished wood panelling in light hues, or in the richer dark tones used aboard the new hull number 21 in Hong Kong.

Ferretti Group also prides itself on its after-sales service for owners, with the Asia Pacific Service Centre based in Hong Kong supplying maintenance teams across the region.

The elegant foredeck on the Ferretti Yachts 670, which has had 25 orders

“We can be anywhere in the region in under 12 hours,” Discoli says. “It’s a great comfort to owners to know they get high-quality maintenance direct from the manufacturer.”

By Andrew Dembina

www.ferrettigroup.com

infoapac@ferrettigroup.com

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Repeated to the point of absolute redundancy, it seems like almost everything the motoring industry has churned out over the past couple of years have been the ‘greatest of all time’, with a series of innumerable ‘first-ever’s – but believe me when I type it, the Aventador SVJ Roadster Xago Edition supercar may be the most exclusive and exorbitant Lamborghini ever designed.

Lamborghini Debuts Ten $500K Aventador SVJ Roadster Xago Edition Supercars

Adapting to the demands of a post-pandemic world, the Italian brand and manufacturer of luxury sports cars and SUVs based in Sant’Agata Bolognese, has transitioned seamlessly into the online sphere, offering a variety of virtual consultation and customization services to their extensive list of high-profile clientele from across the globe.

Cutting their virtual red ribbon with the debut of ten Aventador SVJ Roadster Xago Edition supercars, brand-enthusiasts will no longer need to physically travel to the specialist Ad Personam department for their modification-needs.

Prominently featuring Lamborghini’s signature hexagonal pattern along the exterior and within the cabin upholstery, inspired by the hexagonal clouds on Saturn’s north pole, each car comes complete with exclusive wheels and its own unique numbered plaque.

Powered by a naturally aspirated 6.5-liter V12 to produce at least 759 horsepower, with a top speed of 217mph, the Aventador SVJ Roadster Xago Edition supercar is worth a minimum of $500,000.

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Layered with intense geologic history at the base of a three-million-year-old volcano, the Lookout House by Faulkner Architects in Truckee, California, rests along a north-facing 20-degree slope with equal parts refuge and prospect at 6,300 feet above mean sea level.

Lookout House by Faulkner Architects Lies at The Base of a 3 Million Year Old Volcano

Heavily influenced by its site, the area’s natural Jeffrey Pine and White Fir trees provide a constant reference to the perpendicular horizon in the distance, whilst the incorporation of red-orange glass along its exterior suggests the colour of cooling magma, referencing the site’s geology and offering a warm approach.

Insulated by 20-inch-thick concrete walls made from local sand and aggregate, the Lookout House features floor to ceiling openings with structurally glazed sliding doors, and walls which extend beyond the confines of the residence and unto the slope with a ten-foot-wide to allow sloped grade to pour into the building form.

Constructed sustainably, the architects prioritized energy retention through their choice of materials and systems. Utilizing fire-resistant and low maintenance, mass-heavy concrete walls and radiantly heated stone floors, alongside an R80 insulated roof, enhanced glazing, and high-efficiency mechanical and lighting equipment, the Lookout House is able to effortlessly minimize energy loss and use.

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