Karl Lagerfeld retraces Ulysses’ Journey at the Hotel Métropole Monte-Carlo

All Greek to me: Karl Lagerfeld at the Hotel Monopole

Karl Lagerfeld has been invited by Hotel Métropole Monte-Carlo, to redesign its outside premises including the pool, terrace, gardens and new, third Joel Robuchon restaurant. 

  This will be one of the most exciting artistic and architectural collaborations with a hotel, which is set to be unveiled in summer 2012.One of the key features will be a stunning piece of art by Karl Lagerfeld. A fresco-style installation, created exclusively for the hotel, will be made up of 15 impressive glass panels portraying Ulysses’ journey. 

  Hotel guests will be able to experience a third Joel Robuchon restaurant at Hotel Métropole, within a unique artistic setting: Designed by Karl Lagerfeld, with a new culinary concept. This incredible duo, each at the top of their trade, are coming together to reflect the hotel’s philosophy that symbolises luxury and elegance in the 21^st Century.

Kenzo Vans designer trainers at Harvey Nichols

Joke's on shoe: witty designs by Kenzo for Vans

Trainers have been getting smarter and smarter. Designers and luxury labels have been working alongside well known brands of sneaker to create limited edition runs and special luxury trainers. The latest example of this is a joint venture by Vans and Kenzo.
  Hugo Boss, Lanvin and Alexander McQueen are among those who have put their names to were once considered a bit of utilitarian sportswear. New fabrics, bright colours and the opportunity to push the design envelop - irresistible as it is, have conspired to make trainers the new design canvas for smart labels.
  The new Vans collection combines Parisian chic with the cool, street wear that LA is celebrated for. The first series of designer trainers in the new collaboration features vibrant colours and net prints from Kenzo's Spring Summer 2012 collection on Vans' original skate shoe, the Era.
  "Since our childhoods in suburban LA we've been fans of Vans," said Kenzo creative directors Humberto Leo and Carol Lim. "Vans are one of the iconic American brands and we liked the idea of infusing this bit of American style into the house of Kenzo."
  The mens and women's trainers will be available exclusively at Harvey Nichols from mid-May, typically at £80.
 

Cartier UK celebrated the launch of the Tank Anglaise

Watch this space: Cartier's
Tank Anglaise

Thursday saw, Cartier UK celebrate the launch of the Tank Anglaise, part of the iconic Cartier Tank collection. It was unveiled in true Cartier style alongside the Tank Folle and the Tank Louis Cartier XL Extra Flat.

Cartier bell boys greeted guests at the entrance of the Orangery, where they were then escorted through the West Apse, decorated by bay trees interlaced with candle lights. Within the Orangery guests were invited to view the iconic vitrine’s displaying the historic Tank watches. At 8.30pm, flanked by trumpeters the Master of Ceremonies brought the guests to attention. With some welcoming words, Arnaud M. Bamberger, Executive Chairman of Cartier UK, proceeded to unveil the Tank Anglaise to great applause and celebration. Cartier UK was pleased to welcome both friends of the Maison, as well as ambassadors of the Tank Anglaise, who were photographed by David Bailey in an exclusive portfolio.

Hotel Saint-Barth Isle De France Awarded Five-Star Status

Hotel Saint-Barth Isle de France is proud to announce that it has been granted a five star status. The property is now just one of only two hotels on St Barth’s to be awarded this rating.

Pool position:
swimming at the Hotel Saint-Barth Isle de France

   The distinction is a result of the hotel’s continued commitment to excellence in service and hospitality. The announcement was made by Conseil Territorial de Saint-Barthélemy.  

  Located on Flamands Bay amidst enchanting tropical gardens, this privately owned resort has a total of 39 room, suites and villas all individually decorated by renowned UK designer Penny Morrison.

   The property blends simplicity and elegance and its soft white beaches, turquoise waters and cooling offshore breezes make this sophisticated gem of a hotel the perfect choice for those looking for an intimate Caribbean retreat full of classic European charm.

Suite dreams: the interior is cool and understated

   Its onsite spa, the Isle De France Spa, comprises four treatment rooms and a Spa Pavilion located in the heart of the resort’s lush gardens. A recent collaboration with two of the world’s leading skincare brands, Natura Bissé and Intraceuticals, makes it the perfect place to relax, unwind and forget the stresses and strains of everyday life.

   The resort’s signature restaurant, La Case de l'Isle, remains one of the most popular on island. Overlooking the ocean with an al fresco setting, the menu offers simple, light and elegant French cuisine including fusion food, salads and grilled fish. After a day spent on the beach, it’s the perfect place to watch the sun go down.

   Rates at Hotel Saint-Barth Isle de France start from €470 per night. For reservations please call +59 0590 27 56 66, email hotel@isle-de-france.com or visit www.isle-de-france.com

Exclusive Monaco Grand Prix Package At Hôtel Sezz Saint-Tropez

The Monaco Grand Prix is one of the mostly eagerly anticipated events in the racing calendar and Hôtel Sezz Saint-Tropez is busy revving up for the big weekend. From 24 - 27 May the Design Hotels™ member will be the epitome of Cote d’Azur glamour for adrenaline junkies and pleasure-seekers alike. Chartered yachts, flowing champagne and luxurious private villas – hotelier Shahé Kalaidjian has pulled out all the stops to ensure that guests at Hôtel Sezz Saint-Tropez will enjoy life in the fast lane during the Grand Prix weekend. www.designhotels.com/hotel_sezz_st_tropez

  A sea-side view from a private yacht ensures not only a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of the grandstands, but also the opportunity to watch the race like a true VIP. Guests staying at the Sezz Saint-Tropez will have a vast array of vessels at their disposal, from sailboats to motor yachts in sizes ranging from 12 - 32 metres. For the non-maritimers, getting to the race can be a smooth chauffeur driven affair or a short thrilling helicopter ride, the sky is most definitely the limit.

Life in the Fast Lane: Hotel Sezz-Tropez

  Far removed from the frantic activity of the racetrack, the Hôtel Sezz Saint-Tropez provides an oasis of calm for its guests. The Sezz experience starts the minute guests step through the doors of the spacious Christophe Pillet-designed reception area, where a personal assistant is waiting to fulfill every whim. Indulgence is the order of the day at the 35-room and two villas property, which is surrounded by lush tropical gardens.

  Whether in the Cocoon suite with a private terrace and garden, in one of the private pool villas, or at the Dom Perignon Champagne Bar, one thing is guaranteed – complete and utter relaxation.     

  This offer is also available for the Monaco Historic Grand Prix, which takes place from 11 – 13 May. This prestigious bi-annual event typically occurs two weeks before the annual Formula One Grand Prix, and features classic racing cars from 1947 – 1984.    


Meridian Audio Expands Presence In London

Music to your ears: Meridian at the Jet Business

Meridian Audio, Britain’s leading manufacturer of high-end audio and video entertainment systems, has strengthened its presence in London’s luxury retail sector. Cambridgeshire-based Meridian Design Consultant, RS AV Solutions, has unveiled a state-of-the-art Digital Multi-Media Lounge at Muralto UK’s interior design showroom in Mayfair featuring some of the audio-maker’s most revered systems.

  The bespoke facility in Seymour Place has been carefully designed and engineered to reflect a contemporary living space whilst also providing clients with a powerful visual and listening experience. This comes courtesy of a cutting-edge technology showcase featuring the Meridian MF10 Digital Projector, the recently-launched M6 Loudspeakers, as well as the Audio Core 200.

  Meridian is well established in the South East of the UK, thanks to a network of Premium Partners and the opening of the first boutique in Oxford last year. In 2008, the marque formed a partnership with luxury men’s brand, Alfred Dunhill, allowing guests at the Bourdon House private member’s club near Berkeley Square to enjoy access to complete Meridian Digital Theatre and the Meridian Alfred Dunhill AD88 entertainment system within the club’s guest accommodation areas. More recently, the high-performance Meridian M6 Loudspeakers and Control 15 Digital Media System have been commissioned by the Knightsbridge-headquartered Jet Business, the world’s first ever street level corporate aviation showroom. The system offers a refined acoustic backdrop for the organisation’s clients and personnel.

Listen carefully: Muralto and Meridian

  Commenting on the recent expansion in the UK Capital, John Buchanan Sales and Marketing Director of Meridian Audio said: “Meridian are proud to be associated with key locations in London which best reflect the way our customers integrate Meridian systems within homes as well as in corporate environments. These partnerships with prominent and likeminded British brands allows our customers to see and hear first-hand Meridian’s unique technology within a contemporary setting.”