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Luxury

Luxury, The Issue

The Suite Life: Mandarin Oriental Hotel

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By Gisel Habibnejad Photography by George Apostolidis With all the chic restaurants, lively nightlife, and business centers Brickell has to offer, it is easy to forget the luxurious hotels located in the beautiful city. The Mandarin Oriental Hotel takes the relaxing oceanic view and beachy sands up a notch with their amenities and elegant lifestyle. If you are looking for a change of scenery for your next “stay- cation,” this hotel may be the ideal fit for you. Breezy Beach & Posh Pool Avoid all the tourists and spring-breakers traveling to Miami this season by enjoying the Mandarin Oriental’s private beach. The white sand beach is equipped with day beds, hammocks, and lounge furniture. If you are not the beach type, the infinity pool will serve as the perfect substitution. You can enjoy VIP cabanas suited with flat-screen TVs. Outdoor massages are also available upon request.   Suite Sensation If that’s not enough to capture your attention, the top notch suites will surely do the trick. One of the many amazing suite options offered by the hotel includes the Oriental Suite. Where to begin? The luxurious 2,365-sqft suite is located on the top floor guaranteeing a view of Miami’s beautiful skyline. Step outside to the balcony, which encompasses an entry way from the living room, bedroom, and dining room, to enjoy the spectacular view of the city’s lights, ocean waves, and Biscayne Bay. The living room alone oozes decadence and extravagance with its fireplace and piano.   Wining & Dining Guests will never be bored with food having many dining options to choose from. Enjoy a Five-Star Breakfast by Mandarin Oriental with a beautiful view of the bay. Lunch by the pool never tasted better than at the Oasis Pool Cafe. Dishes include light fare and sushi. For dinner, guests can choose between La Mar and Azul. La Mar by Gaston Acurio, also serving lunch, includes Asian- Peruvian fusion dishes. If you’re looking for Asian cuisine with a French twist, reserve your table at Azul with world renown Chef Crandall. Menu items range from Spiced Carnaroli Risotto to “Cheeks Bourguignon.” If you’re in the mood to sip some cocktails while listening to good music, Mo Bar + Lounge is the place to be. The bar is open all day, equipped with views of the breathtaking Miami skyline and waters. On the weekend, live entertainment courtesy of Renoir Rodriguez and the Fox Brothers fill the lounge with Cuban jazz music and Spanish guitar sounds.   VIP Spa Treatment The spa and wellness center and amenities include the typical gym and spa treatments seen in all top rated hotels. However, what sets it apart are the VIP spa suites. They provide customizable facials, body treatments, and manicures and pedicures in the Beauty Treatment Suite. In addition, they include packages such as couples massages in the Couples’ Suite, private shower and large bathtubs in the Mandarin Suite – and their highest in demand, Thai massage – in the Oriental Suite.   Leisurely Lifestyle The Mandarin Oriental Hotel offers more than just relaxing on the beach for its vacationers. Other leisure activities include shopping and cooking lessons. The hotel is home to Shanghai Tang, a luxury brand boutique stocked with fashion, accessories, and home ware items inspired by Chinese culture. Another classy boutique housed by the hotel is Karma, where you can find gifts and more accessories. When you’ve already indulged in their deluxe Chinese plates, you can take these recipes home with you by participating in Azul cooking classes! Their signature restaurant offers cooking courses by their award- winning chef, William Crandall. Absorb his cooking tips, while preparing one of his famous delicacies. Be sure to book your stay around these classes which are held five times a year. Younger Fans If you are traveling with children, the Mandarin Oriental also has a treat for them. The hotel will provide in- room accessories, such as cribs, Diaper Genies, and bath toys, to ease your stay upon request. Restaurants at the hotel also offer lunch and dinner menus for children. Teenagers can enjoy salsa and belly dancing classes which can be shared with family and friends. Manicures and pedicures, makeup classes, and facials can also be enjoyed by teens seeking fun activities.   Click here to view post on the 2015 March/April issue. 

Living, Luxury, Real Estate, The Issue

The Residences at Park Grove

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By Angela Betancourt For the past several years there has been a lot of excitement about new residential and mix-use developments being built across Miami-Dade County. Brickell and Miami Beach often steal the spotlight with their billion dollar projects, luxury new residences, and all the opulent amenities that come along with them. However, there are several other neighborhoods experiencing their own share of new development projects, among them is Coconut Grove. This historical area is one of Miami’s oldest and most charming neighborhoods. Dating back to 1925, Coconut Grove is known for its parks and gardens, hammock trees, art festivals, shopping, and historical landmarks. Coconut Grove is located approximately 10-15 minutes from Brickell, yet this proximity has not had an effect on this neighborhood’s unique identity. These characteristics were part of what caught the attention of the Terra Group and The Related Group. The two powerhouse developers have joined forces for the first time to create The Residences at Park Grove on a 5.2 acre property directly across from Biscayne Bay. The architecture is led by OMA and Rem Koolhaas in collaboration with kitchen and bath designer William Sofield, and Enea Landscape Architecture. The project masterminds recently came together for a design talk event to showcase building renderings and discuss the vision behind the design. A crowd of 250 top-tier brokers, buyers and tastemakers gathered to hear legendary architect Shohei Shigematsu from OMA and famed landscape designer Enzo Enea, dis- cuss the past and future of Coconut Grove as well as their take on new trends in residential architecture and how they perceive design and development in Miami. Both Shigematsu and Enea revealed how their designs look at urbanism and historical elements specific to the Grove’s existing climate and culture; and their in- tentions to “elevate” Coconut Grove while honoring its historical elements. The hour-long discussion was moderated by Ted Loos, a design expert and regular contributor of Architectural Digest and hosted by co-developers of the property: David Martin, President of Terra Group and Carlos Rosso, President of Condo Development The Related Group. The Residences at Park Grove is set for completion in late 2016. The units will range between 2,500 to 3,500 square feet. Glass walls will give residents end- less views of the marina and Biscayne Bay as well as an abundance of natural light. From the expansive balco- nies, spacious living areas, airy dining rooms, and fully equipped kitchens, the designers did not cut any cor- ners. In addition to amenities that rival those found at any world class luxury resort, Park Grove will also have a private rooftop pool deck with views of the city. The meticulous attention to detail extends beyond the individual residents and out into the buildings two- acre sculpture park where Enea set out to create a se- rene and lush garden for residents to enjoy. The Residences at Park Grove will increasingly draw more attention as it unfolds in one of Miami’s most established neighborhoods; bringing in new elements and establishing roots of its own. Photography Courtesy of THE RELATED GROUP AND TERRA GROUP Click here to view post on the January/February 2015 issue.

Living, Luxury, MSM Online, Real Estate, The Issue

Living with Style – FENDI Château Residences

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  By Angela Betancourt 9365 Collins Ave in Surfside will soon be the home to FENDI Château Residences, a 12 story condominium building with 58 exclusive waterfront residences that feature uninterrupted views along 300-linear feet of pristine beachfront. Miami luxury developer Château Group and FENDI, the Italian luxury house, have joined forces to build this new high-end development located just a few blocks south of the world renowned Bal Harbour Shops. Slated to be completed in the summer of 2016, FENDI Château Residences is the first branded real estate project globally for the FENDI Company, and as of December, is already 50% sold. “We are pleased to bring FENDI Château Residences to the Miami market place. The residences will allow residents to savor the pulsating life of Miami with its avant-garde art and design culture, as well as its sandy beaches and lush surroundings,” said Manuel Grosskopf, Château Group President. On December 2nd during Art Basel, the building ’s sales center held a special event to showcase a full model residence where invited guests had the opportunity to fully immerse themselves in the FENDI Château living experience. Every single detail was accounted for; the ultra modern kitchen with Gaggenau appliances, the elegant accessories, and the Italian marble finished bathrooms, were all depicted exactly as they will be when the building is complete. Grosskopf and FENDI Chairman and CEO Pietro Beccari were both in attendance to provide additional project insight and share their excitement to create this luxury project that will be unlike anything else in the community. “This has been a successful and enjoyable partnership. Both Château Group and FENDI share an unwavering passion for producing high quality products with an acute focus on design and creativity, underscored by the art of excellence,” said Grosskopf. The residences and penthouses range from 3,000 square feet to more than 7,000 square feet with prices ranging from $5 million to $25 million. Each unit comes equipped with plush amenity areas designed by FENDI and decorated with FENDI Casa fixtures and fittings. The building’s common areas include a library, business center, ballroom, kid’s club, reflective ponds, a relaxation terrace with aromatherapy, private cinema, lounge with gourmet kitchen, restaurant, a state-of-the-art fitness center overlooking the ocean, bicycle storage, multiple beachfront pools with cabanas, and numerous other lavish amenities. Residents will also have access to “white glove” services, including a 24-hour multi-lingual concierge staff, beachfront and poolside service, and a doorman and valet. “This is a very important project for us,” said Beccari. Together with the Château Group, FENDI Château Residences further establishes the FENDI brand within the luxury private home sector. When the FENDI Château Residences are complete, it will add an entire new dimension of luxury living to the Bal Harbour and Surfside communities. Photography Courtesy of FENDI CHÂTEAU RESIDENCES Click here to view post on the January/February 2015 Issue.

Living, Luxury, The Issue

Artefacto Debuts Its First Fabric Collection During Art Basel

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By Angela Betancourt Celebrating 35 years of design and innovation, Artefacto has established itself as one of the world’s leading creators of contemporary furnishings. At the helm is Artefacto’s CEO Paulo Bacchi whose vision made the company the preferred choice for designers, developers, and South Florida residents. Their continued success is a reflection of their ability to stay relevant and always on the cutting edge of the interior design industry. During Art Basel and Miami Art Week, Artefacto debuted its first-ever fabric collection titled Animal Prints by Lais Bacchi, a collection of three bold neutral prints in five original fabrics presented on natural velvets designed by Paulo’s wife Lais. A jewelry designer and fashion icon, Lais Bacchi has already gained a lot of recognition for her company LB designs, a hand crafted jewelry line manufactured by artisans in her native Brazil. With Animal Prints, Lais had the opportunity to apply her vibrant sense of style in a new way: making her and her husband a power couple of interior design. “I drew from my background as a stylist and a jewelry designer to envision Artefacto’s first fabric collection, Animal Prints. The punchy patterns add a little bit of flair to Artefacto’s usually neutral palette of light woods, whites and chrome by virtue of their rich, luxurious texture and versatile nature.” The fabrics will add an additional element to Artefacto’s design style with upholstered and decorative accent pieces. In addition to the launch of Animal Prints, Artefacto also unveiled the Projecto Cubos exhibit, a series of custom acrylic art pieces created by 10 celebrated Brazilian artists. The exhibit will run until the end of January and will then be donated for auction at the IV Gala Brazil Foundation in Miami. Artefacto also showcased the work of Miami photographer Daniel Azoulay who presented an exclusive collection of new work inspired by the movement of ballet dancers. The photographs were displayed throughout the entire showroom. To celebrate the launch of Animal Prints, Projecto Cubos, and Azoulay’s work, Artefacto hosted an invitation only champagne brunch and exhibition at their main showroom in Aventura. More than 100 guests were in attendance, among them the “who’s-who” of Brazilian interior designers, architects, artists, and stylists, who are some of Artefacto’s most important clients. Guests showed excitement as they admired the new fabrics and exhibits. They sipped on endless champagne and delectable bites, and networked amongst each other. Overall the launch proved to be an exciting affair. Artefacto’s ability to partner with artists, who so well complement the company’s aesthetics, is just another sign that they are on the right track to continued to success. Photography by BRETT HUFZIGER Click here to view post on the January/February 2015 issue.

Luxury, The Issue

Soaring High with Apexluxe

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By Gisel Habibnejad  Established in 2010, Apexluxe has stayed true to its name and reputation by providing luxurious ground transportation, accompanied with impeccable concierge services. After first gaining a stellar reputation in ground transportation and concierge services, the company grew their legacy 4 years later by expanding to private air transportation. Founded by Diego Piedrahita, Tatiana Osma, and later joined by Leo Osma, each individual boasts impressive credentials. Diego served as a Commercial Vice President of one of the largest trust firms in South America and played an integral role in the development of a startup limousine company in South Florida. Tatiana operated as a travel agent of one of South Florida’s most prestigious agencies and for the past 9 years has been focusing on private aviation as a broker and building relationships with major accounts worldwide. Leo has 6 years of corporate experience in commercial program development and asset marketing, plus a three-year background in startup and entrepreneurial environments. With a combined 20 years industry experience in travel, aviation, transportation, and customer service, it is no wonder Apexluxe has achieved such high-flying success. MSM: Who is Apexluxe and do you have a motto? AL: Apexluxe is a reliable and resourceful personal assistant that our clients can trust for EVERY request worldwide; we are luxury lifestyle 24/7. Our motto is “Apexluxe, Redefining Luxury Services.” MSM: What is the meaning behind the name “Apexluxe?” AL: Apex means “the highest point” and luxe stands for “luxury.” Thus, Apexluxe is the “highest point in luxury services.” MSM: What type of clientele do you cater to? AL: We cater to V.I.P., executives, artists, athletes – anyone who requires private aviation, executive ground transportation, and an overall luxury experience with our concierge services. MSM: What sets you apart from the competition? AL: Attention to detail and a customer centric experience are what separate Apexluxe from operating as more than just a trip-by-trip basis charter company. Apexluxe concentrates on relationship building, which enables trust and confidence in our clients through our ability to deliver an end-to-end cycle of luxury services. MSM: What is your approach to a successful relationship with a client? AL: Apexluxe builds clientele relationships through an end-to- end luxury logistical process. We establish strong bonds with our clients, which allows us to determine trends, preferences, and continuous requirements to ultimately not just meet but exceed expectations of our clients’ luxury experience. MSM: What are the benefits from using Apexluxe? AL: Our clients can count on the most upscale customer service at all times, because we provide tailored services to accomplish every detailed requirement. MSM: What are the typical demands your clientele require when chartering an aircraft? AL: Clients request a specific type of plane and a specific type of catering. Our options range in anything food-wise; we have imported specific foods and beverages from the designated countries at our clients’ request. Some charters do not require a flight attendant; however, our client may call for it so we will make sure to hire one for that particular trip. In addition, we take care of the hotel reservations, ground transportation, and a wide range of concierge services. That’s what makes our services different; we make all requirements a reality for our clientele. MSM: What type of vehicles does your ground transportation fleet include? AL: Our top of the line vehicles range from Cadillac Escalades, Mercedes Benz S550, and others if needed. MSM: What kind of training do your drivers have and what alternative services are they capable of performing? AL: We proudly say that our team is a group of service-oriented personnel due to our long invested hours of personalized customer service training. Alternative services include, but are not limited to: assisting with restaurant and event reservations, running errands for our clients, and always relying on our concierge desk for specific requests. MSM: How does Apexluxe achieve each concierge request? AL: We have a worldwide network in place for each individual request such as restaurants, events, hotels, private clubs, and more. MSM: What is next for Apexluxe? AL: We will continue to build our portfolio to fulfill the very dynamic and exclusive luxury market. The Apexluxe team’s primary goal is to build upon client rapport – for new or existing relationships – that will organically foster unforgettable experiences to our clientele. Photography by IMANI OGDEN Hair and makeup: RAUL MUNOZ, RAUL MUNOZ HAIR STUDIO    Click here to view post on the November/December 2014 issue.

Living, Luxury, Real Estate, The Issue

Miami Real Estyle – SLS Lux Brickell – The Urban Oasis

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By Angela Betancourt  When sbe, the global hospitality and real estate company behind the award winning SLS Hotel brands launched a property in South Beach, it quickly became one of the city’s hottest hotels and culinary destinations for tourists and locals alike. In the wake of all the success, sbe partnered with development titans the Related Group, to build an SLS Hotel & Residency in Miami’s Brickell community. Though still under construction, the project was highly anticipated and quickly sold out. It’s not surprising then that sbe and the Related Group, along with The Allen Morris Company, have joined forces again to build another SLS property. Named the SLS LUX Brickell, the development is an elevated SLS Hotels & Residency brand that will offer an all-suite and residential experience with an astonishing amount of luxurious amenities and personalized VIP Services. Set to open in 2016, the SLS LUX Brickell is being built just steps away from the upcoming billion dollar Brickell City Centre and Mary Brickell Village. The 57 story building will boast 450 residences and a limited collection of 12 penthouse residences on the top three floors. The building was the creation of internationally acclaimed architect firm Arquitectonica who designed Canyon Ranch in Miami Beach and the American Airlines Arena among others. The interior was designed by Yabu Pushelberg, the design firm behind some of the world’s most notable hotels including the Four Seasons in Toronto and Tokyo; the W Hotel, Times Square, New York, and the St. Regis Bal Harbour. Together, both firms set out to “indulge the senses” by making art an integral part of the overall design and living experience. Museum-quality art will be prominent in all common areas by renowned artists Fernando Botero, contemporary painter Fabian Burgos, and lighting artist Ana Isabal Martinez, who designed a one of a kind LED façade. The units reflect their own sense of art and style with their imported stone vanity tops, full size mirrors by Yabu Pushelberg and premium European cabinetry with designer details. In addition to art, residents can also indulge in private residential elevators, a fitness center, a roof top pool, wine cellar , a cigar room, and two ground floor dining experiences; Katsuya and SBar. sbe founder and visionary Sam Nazarian originally came up with the LUX concept as a way to create an environment where luxury, service, creativity and fun, would all harmoniously come together. His vision also entailed offering “resident’s ultimate access in an oasis of exclusive privileges” that defines SLS living. This oasis of exclusive privileges includes a butler, on demand housekeeping, overnight shoe shine, preferred event tickets, pre-arrival provisioning / grocery shopping and delivery, translation services, a babysitter/nanny and dozens more. Additionally, residents also get full access to the other SLS Brickell hotel’s event facilities and services. Just like their other two properties, the SLS LUX Brickell has captured the world’s imagination and has become a main topic of conversation in the real estate world. Though 2016 is still more than a full year away, Miami has caught SLS fever and there are no signs of the excitement ending anytime soon. Photography Courtesy of SLS LUX    Click here to view post on the November/December 2014 issue.

Living, Luxury, Real Estate, The Issue

Edgewater’s New Found Paradise

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By Angela Betancourt In the past 35 years, The Related Group has been a leader in developing some of the country’s most luxurious and highly celebrated condominiums. They account for 25% of all condominium development in South Florida. With an ever growing portfolio of projects, The Related Group has proven time and again, that they are industry leaders. In true fashion, the company recently celebrated several major milestones including the launch of Paraiso Bayviews and the groundbreaking for Paraiso Bay. The launch of Paraiso Bayviews and the construction of Paraiso Bay represent the ongoing revitalization of a once neglected Edgewater neighborhood. Edgewater is approximately located by 17th street to the south, 37th street to the north, the Florida East Coast Railroad and First Avenue to the west, and Biscayne Bay to the east. Edgewater use to be a thriving area about 50 years ago until the mid 1990’s when it started to fall into harder times. Drug dealers, gang bangers, and the homeless began taking over the area. Today this neighborhood is finding a new identity. Edgewater is now a hot commodity in part because of The Related Groups efforts and the bayfront which is one of the area’s highlights. The launch of Paraiso Bayviews was attended by hundreds of VIP brokers, Mayor Tomás Regalado, and Commissioner Marc Sarnoff. The project’s international interior and industrial designer Karim Rashid was also in attendance. Rashid, who’s been featured in Time Magazine and is recognized as one of the most important industrial designers of our time, evolved his trademark colors and bold shapes for a softer more natural approach to the project. Boasting 44 stories and 396 units, this new tower is the latest addition to the Edgewater’s New Luxury Paraiso Bay Compound. Residents of Bayviews will enjoy all of Paraiso’s luxury amenities including a rooftop swimming pool, tennis courts, a beach club, marina, gardens by Enzo Enea, a signature restaurant by Michael Schwartz, and more. The Paraiso Bay property, which is set between Biscayne Boulevard and the Bay at NE 31st Street, was designed by internationally renowned architect Bernardo Fort-Brescia, principal of Arquitectónica. Paraiso Bay is self proclaimed as a “resort styled, self-contained community” and is attracting a lot of high profile attention. Though the estimated completion isn’t until Spring 2016, celebrities who have already reserved homes there include DJ and music producer David Guetta, basketball star Manu Ginobili, and Spanish tennis legend Arantxa Sanchez-Vicario. Future Paraiso Bay residents won’t have a shortage of amenities to enjoy while they embrace a new park and acres of beautifully landscaped gardens. Thus far, plans for the park include a playground, exercise area, and art sculptures among other features. It’s truly an exciting time for The Related Group and the Edgewater community. The opening of Paraiso Bayviews and the construction of Paraiso Bay will forever change the Edgewater skyline. Click here to view post on the Sept/Oct 2014 issue.

LIFESTYLE, Living, Luxury, The Issue

Artful Collaborations

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Brazilian Interior Designer Joao Armentano and Paulo Bacchi, CEO of Artefacto join forces in the ultimate collaboration of high end interior design. By Angela Betancourt The phrase ‘art and life become one’ can inspire the imagination and conjure a variety of literal and figurative imagery and meanings. The Related Group sought to take this phrase and turn it into reality by doing what they do best; creating an ultra luxury condominium building that entices both praise and envy. The result is the Marea, South of Fifth’s final and captivating condominium. Meaning tide in Spanish, Marea’s name is very fitting considering its location near the Atlantic Ocean, Biscayne Bay and Miami Beach Marina. Marea was designed by the powerhouse team of Sieger Suarez Architects, Yabu Pushelburg (interior design), and Enzo Enea (landscape). They set out to capture Miami’s “uniquely glamorous fusion of art and design” and harmoniously incorporated original works of art by critically acclaimed contemporary artists in the common areas. Not surprisingly, there are hardly any units left at Marea and the last remaining penthouses are getting some extra VIP attention. The Related Group assembled another superstar team of designers to finish their last four penthouses which are going for upwards of $7 million. Brazilian Interior Designer Joao Armentano and Paulo Bacchi from the Brazilian luxury furniture manufacturer Artefacto, joined forces to create customized interiors for the penthouses and they define their designs as “a breathtaking fusion of European flair and Brazilian sensuality.” To celebrate this collaboration, The Related Group along with Krug Champagne hosted a private “Best of Brazil” event to unveil the designs. The renderings were showcased to a room full of VIPs which included Krug Champagne President & CEO Magareth Henriquez and the Executive Vice President of The Related Group Carlos Rosso. Guests enjoyed a variety of delectable appetizers and sipped on Krug Champagne as they toasted to the new designs and Armentano’s growing influence in the Miami market. Armentano’s practical, beautiful and intelligent style has made him one of the most sought after Brazilian designers and made him a perfect fit for this project. That evening Rosso appropriately described his work as “half bohemian and half luxury”. “We know that our buyers crave relaxed elegance and want to come home to a place of quiet luxury, which is exactly what he delivers,”said Rosso. His unique style combined with Artefacto’s established reputation for creating masterful work was exactly what The Related Group was looking for. “Working with Joao and Paulo was fantastic; they are both monumental names in Brazilian design. Bringing them to our team for this project really helped us tap into what our Brazilian buyers want,”added Rosso. The end results were incredibly detailed renderings that depicted rooms with exquisitely designed furniture, distinctive lighting, and a wide array of eclectic accessories; each perfectly placed to complete the room’s ambience. Future penthouse residences will find themselves in a spacious home that captures the vibrant spirit and relaxed luxury of Miami Beach. For Bacchi, this collaboration was an extremely rewarding experience. Working with talented designers like Armentano to or- chestrate a grand vision for a property like Marea represents the very essence of what he enjoys most about the work that he does. “Joao brings a fresh, sophisticated aesthetic to Miami. He uses vibrant tones and textures to infuse each space he envisions with a unique panache,” said Bacchi. Armentano’s experience working on this project was also very rewarding but very intense. It strengthened his existing bond between Artefacto and The Related Group. “The Related Group is one of the best groups around the world. I worked for them in Brazil and now in the USA. Their works are perfect,” said Armentano. “Artefacto is like my second home. Mr. Paulo Bacchi is doing a very important and good job. I love their designs and the quality.” Armentano knows good design and quality when he sees it. He’s been developing architectural projects, and interior decoration in the residential, commercial, corporate, and hospitality segments for more than 30 years. His works have been featured in prominent magazines, books, and exhibits and he is considered a design super star in his native Brazil. Now the US is starting to catch on. Armentano ‘s expansion to Miami first occurred when Bacchi brought him along with fellow Brazilian designer Debora Aguiar to work on other luxury developments like Paraiso Bay and 1 Hotel & Homes. Becoming a designer was more of an involuntary act than it was a conscience decision; his career chose him. He remembers always being drawn to objects with natural lines and his mind was always looking for ways to improve on things that would make living life better. A career in design came naturally and till this day he takes pride in expressing that he has never ‘worked’ a day in his life. Even Armentano’s idea of ‘free time’ still involves ‘work’. “I love to go to my office and go around construction sites. This is my life, this is my pleasure,” he said. He prefers to be at work where he can generate new ideas, embrace new projects, and face new challenges. Armentano draws inspiration from his surroundings and believes that artists have to keep an eye open for the special moments and opportunities that can evolve into fresh new ideas. “We are always looking for a special moment. Naturally I’m very lucky! I have several special moments in my life; sunsets, sunrises, friends, birds, and the perfect family. Thank God! I’m so lucky to have these special conditions. So it’s easy to create, to make something special, and to work with pleasure. It’s the perfect way,” said Armentano. Armentano has big dreams for the future and will continuously tap into special moments for future projects. Though he doesn’t have something specific he would like to work on next; the bigger picture of what he envisions will serve a greater and noble purpose. “You know, we live in a very big world. My dream (and I think

Luxury, The Issue

Aston Martin

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HEART OF DARKNESS By Kevin F. Gbolie Many vehicle manufacturers today are looking to reinvent themselves to keep up with the times. However, Aston Martin is sticking to a timeless design with a hint of modern dark art in the 2015 version of the Aston Martin DB9 Carbon Edition. The DB9 Carbon Edition injects pure seduction to what the British manufacturer does best: Making a bold vehicle that stands the test of time. The DB9 Carbon Edition is set apart by being available in only two colors: Carbon Black and Stratus White. The color selection fits inline with the monochrome theme that Aston Martin is presenting with the Carbon Edition. The merging of a timeless theme with a timeless car. In addition to the color selection, The DB9 Carbon Edition comes in two body styles: the classic 2-door coupe, or the 2-door volante. Both styles are designed to fit the owner’s needs. Those with the coupe will look stylish pulling up to a high-profile event-looking equally as sharp as the DB9-while volante owners will have the wind in their hair as they drive alongside the ocean with the top down for a relaxed afternoon. To match the seduction of the exterior, The DB9 Carbon Edition has an equally alluring interior that Aston Martin describes as “the heart of darkness.” To show the heart of darkness, Aston Martin has encased the interior with premium black leather that is temptingly soft. This makes for a comfortable and lavish driving experience. In order to make the black leather stand out, flashes of color implemented in the stitching add another dimension for the DB9. The precise stitching holding the leather together comes in three colors: red, silver, or yellow. These colors add a subtle, but elegant pop to the interior. Aston Martin has added many finer details all over the vehicle to make it a truly exclusive model. From the piano black finish on the air vents and trim on the interior, to the black diamond-turned wheels, each selected exclusive finish only adds to the internal and external beauty of the vehicle. The DB9 Carbon Edition sets a premium standard of what a limited edition luxury car should be. The Aston Martin DB9 Carbon Edition is a work of art, but make no mistake, this is also a vehicle of power. Retailing at over $200,000.00, you get the power you pay for. Housing an AM11 V12 engine, this vehicle is capable of a sprint time of 4.6 seconds. Not to mention, it houses a carbon-fibre diffuser which improves the aerodynamic function of The DB9 by drawing air for under the car. This helps with the overall speed and performance of the car for the speed demons out there. Owning the Aston Martin DB9 Carbon Edition takes a person with a certain class, like James Bond. The MI6 agent who defined class in and of itself, drove an Aston Marton DB5 in Goldfinger. Step inside the Aston Martin DB9 Carbon Edition, and you may think you must be dreaming, too. Click here to view post on the Sept/Oct 2014 issue.

LIFESTYLE, Living, Luxury, MSM Online, The Issue

Miami Real Estyle – Sofia Joelsson – SoJo Design Miami Beach

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By Sherri Balefsky/Photography by Imani Ogden Stepping into the SoJo Design offices in the heart of South Beach is like stepping onto an oasis during a major MacArthur Causeway traffic jam. Sofia Joelsson, the firm’s founder and creative director, arrived in Miami late last night after her flight from New York was delayed four hours. You’d never know; she is blithe and cheerful and—with no makeup, nonetheless—looks incredibly well rested. From just a quick glance around her office, it is clear Joelsson has impeccable taste—so much so you’d think she spent years studying at an accredited design school. But Joelsson grew up in a small town in Sweden where she reveals, “People are very much do-it-yourself. A career in interior design is not something that is really even thought of.” Instead, the former Miss Sweden grew up thinking she wanted to be an actress. She spent time living in Germany and the Dominican Republic before making her way to Miami. “I was modeling and doing commercials,” she says. “But people kept asking me who my decorator was…So thirteen years ago—to this day, actually [June 9, 2014]—I started SoJo Design.”  With no formal training, Joelsson has managed to make a name for herself in the world of interior design, having worked on some of the most impressive luxury properties in Miami, New York City, and Dallas, Texas, among others. This includes penthouses at the Setai, Il Villagio, and 1500 Ocean Drive in South Beach; the Ritz-Carlton, Dallas; and Manhattan’s Walker Tower (where a penthouse recently sold for a reported $30 million). “I found a niche in penthouses,” she says. But her portfolio also includes luxury condominiums at Canyon Ranch, Miami Beach, One Bal Harbor, and the Four Seasons, Miami, and multimillion-dollar estates in affluent neighborhoods in places like Star Island and the Hamptons. She’s also designed interiors for hotels, office buildings, restaurants, and even private jets. The SoJo Design aesthetic is sleek, chic, and modern. Each room exudes an effortless balance of color, texture, shape, and open space. Joelsson has an affinity for natural materials like wood, stone, and leather, and for neutral tones such as white, black, and beige. While an estate she designed in Dallas has a much different vibe than, say, one of her South Beach penthouses, the signature SoJo je ne sais quoi permeates throughout each endeavor. In total, SoJo Design has worked on more than 150 projects, representing close to a billion dollars of real estate. The success has led Joelsson to expand her business into other areas of creativity, which includes the launch of a design-inspired magazine, Curated Living. “I did [the magazine] to challenge and inspire myself, and in turn, inspire others,” she says. “It was originally only supposed to be online [www.curated-living.com], but my clients and advertisers were all asking for copies.” For the first issue, aptly named “The White Issue,” Joelsson curated pieces from her favorite design and fashion houses to put together a series of white-themed vignettes. The next issue, slated for Summer 2014, will have both equestrian and nautical themes. Along with being editor-in-chief of a burgeoning magazine, Joelsson is working on a new textiles line, which she anticipates will be part of a larger Sofia Joelsson Home, Anywhere collection. She also launched an e-commerce site, Cudesso (www.cudesso.com), which offers a handpicked selection of her favorite furniture and home accessories from around the world. And, if that wasn’t enough, Joelsson is also in talks with producers about a potential TV show. With so many projects evolving simultaneously, it’s no wonder Joelsson says the one person she’d love to meet is Martha Stewart. “She is such an inspiring entrepreneur and businesswoman—and she’s had a very interesting life!” Much of Joelsson’s inspiration comes from travel. Her favorite places include Mykonos and Santorini, Greece; and Capri, Italy, where she says she visits every year. Aside from traveling, in her free time (though it would seem she has none!), Joelsson loves to entertain. She likes having friends over to watch movies on her terrace where she has a full-size chess set and a popcorn machine. “A lot of my friends have kids,” she confesses. “I have four-legged kids.”  She gushes about her shih-tzu mix, Caspar, whom she rescued five years ago. He is by her side at the office on most days. “I think it’s important to create a fun work environment,” she says. “We’re here very long hours some days, so you have to keep people loving what they do.” The SoJo Design team currently includes five designers, plus an extended staff that helps support her in her multiple endeavors.  And despite her laundry list of accomplishments in just 13 years, Joelsson remains down-to-earth and remarkably humble. “The United States is still, to me, the land of opportunity,” she says.“Miami is special because it’s only something like thirty percent developed—as opposed to New York, which is like ninety-nine percent developed. There’s so much opportunity and growth…What Craig Robins is doing with the Design District is pretty incredible. It’s cool to be a part of a growing design community.”  So what’s her best piece of advice for anyone who wants to follow in her footsteps? “Follow your passion. Everything else is just passing the time. [Your passion] can change—mine did. But if you love what you do, you will be successful.” Click here to view post on the July/August 2014 issue.

Luxury

Bavarian Motor Works

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The 30 Jahre M5 Special Edition This comes as BMW’s 30th Anniversary Edition M5. Not only the most power M5 ever to be sold, but with an output of 600 horsepower this will be the most powerful BMW production model ever built. Starting at a price tag of $138,275 a limited run of 300 to be produced worldwide and of that only 30 of these ultimatedriving machines will be imported to the United States. Available May 21, 2014.       Click here to view post on the May/June 2014 issue.

Luxury

Yacht Shopping Anyone?

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By Reagan Lightsey It’s nine a.m. on a Thursday and I’ve just been handed a glass of wine by a smartly-dressed yachting attendant. As I stand on a makeshift dock right across Collins Avenue from the Fontainebleau, I think to myself… “I could get used to this life…” As a matter of fact, I think I could get used to living full-time on any one one of these larger-than-life (or at least my life!) yachts. Ha—maybe if I was 25 sitting on $25 mill” like Drake…but alas, I just turned twenty-six, and I don’t see the purchase of one of these gorgeous Ferretti yachts in my very near future. So, if “you only live once” is, indeed, “The Motto,” I’m more than happy to throw back some wine and pretend that I am buying a boat. …But not just any boat. (In fact, to say the word “boat” in connection with this masterpiece is probably among the greater fo pauxs of this event.) The pick of the litter today is the brand new Pershing 82’ whose debut I am here to applaud. With all of the sophistication of any number of yachts by the Ferretti Group and a cruising speed of 45 knots, yacht designer Fulvio De Simoni has achieved something to admire. Since its origin in 1968, the Ferretti Group has built a legacy of unwavering excellence, and this is certainly true of the Pershing. The detail of this eighty-two foot yacht is not simply in the fabric—rather, it is in the wood grains, the perfectly selected, top-notch leather and the brilliantly engineered retractable glass back half. And of course, we cannot forget the majesty of its low, aggressive stance on the waves. I am fairly certain that to own a Pershing 82’ is to have arrived. That said, nothing less than the grandeur of the Miami Boat Show could have done for its debut. As a matter of fact, this particular display of yachts is the largest in Miami Boat Show history—only fitting for the sleekness of this iconic yacht. As we tour the interior—a large living space on the main floor behind the captain’s chairs (with the aforementioned retractable doors), four bedrooms and a kitchen—it is quite easy to see why the Pershing 82’ boasts three awards, including “Best Interior Layout” and “Best Innovation.” And certainly, we can’t overlook the third award, “Best Exterior”, especially when we take into account the beautifully designed sundecks. Yes, that is sundecks with an “s”, as there are actually two: one smaller one on the tip-top by the pilot’s seat and one perfectly situated slightly lower at the bow of the boat. Truly, no detail has been overlooked. As I wind my way back down the retractable carbon steel staircase that delivered me to the sundeck, it becomes increasingly clear why Ferretti Group has had over forty-four years of success; the splendor of the Pershing 82’, while special in its own right, also extends across their other seven brands. From the Bertram and Riva S.p.A. to the Itama, (an open motor style yacht), Ferretti merges distinction and finesse to achieve a particular brand of yachting superiority. View article in our spring issue here!

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