Our quest is to bridge the gap between the abundance of quality lifestyle experiences and the limited access we have to them.
We believe that individuals in the modern world should have the opportunity to enjoy both new and favored experiences, and we strive to uncover 'collective synergies' between them.
SELENPARC observes resonating stories and explores to co-create journeys that merge the best of wellness, art, style, culinary, travel, and tech. We aim to create a medium where unique intersections are explored, offering our audiences an immersive and tailored experience.
Sansiri, a leader in premier real estate in Thailand, introduces 'BuGaan Pattanakarn', a rare luxury residence in Bangkok styled by the world renowned designer Edward Tuttle, known for his legacy designs with Aman Resorts and Park Hyatt Vendome/Milan.
The project, envisioned as Asia's finest masterpiece, is born to merge the essence of living with experience and designed to mirror heritage with modern interpretation.
Valued at 1.45 billion baht with units ranging from 65 to 180 million baht, the project is fully completed and available for viewing by appointment.
Image credit: Sansiri
Sep 14, 2024
As we continue our conversation with Jaime Hayon, we probe into the reflections of his journey and the inspirations that shape his transformative approach.
Image credit: Jaime Hayon | HAYONSTUDIO
Sep 5, 2024
Delving into the world where emotional depth redefines the intersections between art and design, SELENPARC was fortunate to speak with the illustrious creative visionary, Jaime Hayon.
Image credit: Jaime Hayon | HAYONSTUDIO
Sep 4, 2024
Continuing our dialogue in Part 2, SELENPARC exchanges further with Kengo Kuma, a titan of architecture, delving into his dimensions and cultural perspectives.
Image credit:
V&A Dundee: ©Ross Fraser McLean & HuftonCrow / Carouste Gulbenkian Museum: ©Kengo Kuma & Associates / Hiroshige Museum: ©Kengo Kuma & Associates / Audeum (audio museum): ©︎Lee Namsun, ©︎Lee Yongbaek, ©︎Taiki Fukao, ©Kengo Kuma & Associates / Whitestone Gallery Singapore: ©Kengo Kuma & Associates / Dallas Rolex Tower: ©︎Balazs Bognar / Saint-Denis Pleyel Emblematic Train Station: ©Kengo Kuma & Associates / Healthian Wood: ©︎Kawasumi-Kobayashi Kenji Photograph Office / Cidori: ©︎Kengo Kuma & Associates / Yusuhara Wooden Bridge Museum ©︎Takumi Ota
Aug 10, 2024
In pursuit of unraveling the pivotal role of architecture, SELENPARC had the honor of speaking to visionary architect Kengo Kuma, whose impact defines the era.
Image credit:
We Hotel Toya: ©︎Kawasumi-Kobayashi Kenji Photograph Office, ©︎Kengo Kuma & Associates / The Tokyo Edition, Ginza: ©︎Kawasumi-Kobayashi Kenji Photograph Office, ©︎Kengo Kuma & Associates / Kengo Kuma Portrait: ©Designhouse / 1 Hotel Paris: ©LUXIGON / Fendi Kengo Kuma: ©︎Fendi, ©︎Kengo Kuma & Associates / Carouste Gulbenkian Museum: ©︎Kengo Kuma & Associates / Botanical Pavilion: ©︎Earl Carter / Saint-Denis Pleyel Emblematic Train Station: ©Kengo Kuma & Associates / Kibi Kogen N SQUARE: ©︎Kawasumi-Kobayashi Kenji Photograph Office / Breath/ng: ©︎Dassault Systèmes 2018 Sebastien D’Halloy
Aug 8, 2024
Folly Mojave, an off-grid wilderness retreat located at the intersection of the Mojave National Preserve and Joshua Tree National Park, is designed by architect Malek Alqadi to blend seamlessly with the desert, vanishing into the landscape during daylight.
The architecture, in desert hues and textures, incorporates elements of sacred geometry, sustainable practices, and facilities that encourage wellness and connection with nature.
Image credit: Folly Mojave
Jul 31, 2024
Hyatt has partnered with Under Canvas, an upscale outdoor hospitality company, integrating the glamping experience into the Mr & Mrs Smith platform for Hyatt access; thereby allowing Hyatt members to earn and redeem points at 13 Under Canvas safari camping resorts spread across destinations located in key U.S. national parks and monuments.
Image credit: Hyatt | Under Canvas
Jul 30, 2024
The Palazzo dello Strozzino in Florence, built in 1457 and transformed into a cinema in 1922, has been reenvisioned as 'Giunti Odeon', a fusion of cinema and bookshop managed by Giunti, a prominent Florentine publishing house, offering a uniquely intertwined cultural experience with book presentations, films, art exhibitions, concerts, and a restaurant.
The evolution symbolizes a new chapter for the historic space, a testament to cultural resilience, preserving its essence while embracing new horizons.
Image credit: Giunti Odeon | Cafè Odeon
Jul 27, 2024
NOT A HOTEL, a timeshare concept hospitality brand, has announced a collaborative project with NIGO, an influential figure in the fashion and cultural scene.
Envisioned by NIGO, NOT A HOTEL TOKYO will be located in Futtsu City, Chiba.
Image credit: NOT A HOTEL Co., Ltd.
Jul 25, 2024
Le Sirenuse, a historic art boutique hotel in Positano, collaborated with artist Nicolas Party to transform its swimming pool into a mosaic art installation that encapsulates the Amalfi Coast’s landscape through abstract forms and vibrant colors, enriching the hotel's legacy of museum worthy, site specific artworks by international artists through their art program.
A mosaic of blues and greens captures the Amalfi Coast's nature, crowned by a golden sun disc as the centerpiece inviting bathers to 'dive into the sky'.
Image credit: Le Sirenuse | brechenmacher & baumann | Roberto Salomone
Jul 23, 2024
Ananda in the Himalayas, an exceptional wellness retreat in the spiritual foothills of the Himalayas, introduced a Fertility Enhancement Program to improve reproductive health through natural methods, combining Ayurvedic wisdom, Yoga, Traditional Chinese Medicine, and Emotional Healing.
The program, designed for individuals and couples dealing with fertility issues, includes Panchakarma detoxification, Shamana restoration, physiotherapy, and a customized Ayurvedic meal plan, tailored through pre-arrival consultations.
Image credit: Ananda in the Himalayas
Jul 18, 2024
Ladbroke Hall, the new flagship of Carpenters Workshop Gallery in Notting Hill, London, embodies 'Gesamtkunstwerk', a total work of art, by integrating art, design, music, and culinary experiences.
The space, with contributions from notable figures, is highlighted by a Jean Prouvé-designed pavilion in the garden landscaped by Luciano Giubbilei, and a restaurant led by award winning chef Emanuele Pollini, blending fine dining in the artistic setting crafted by architect Vincenzo De Cotiis and extended to the garden.
Image credit: Ladbroke Hall
Jul 14, 2024
POUYUENJI, a brand devoted to finely curated teas, has opened POUYUENJI KYOTO, showcasing a deep respect for tea culture and craftsmanship in a reborn Kyoto townhouse designed by Tony Chi.
The boutique houses a tea room for tea ceremonies, a garden designed by landscape architect Yasuo Kitayama, and a library dedicated to tea, art, architecture, and Kyoto culture, all aimed at connecting the spiritual value of tea culture with modern life.
Image credit: POUYUENJI KYOTO
Jul 11, 2024
Mona Athens, a boutique hotel set in 1950s architecture, serves as an art & design showroom conceptualized by photographer Eftihia Stefanidi and entrepreneur Shai Antebi, representing a creation of the Athens based design studio, House of Shila.
This multidisciplinary space, designed for mindfulness and slow living, catalyzes collaborations across diverse fields, hosting soirées, art exhibits, supper clubs, and music sessions.
Image credit: Mona
Jul 10, 2024
Assouline, a premier luxury publisher devoted to elevating cultural appreciation, has opened a new boutique with a café at 696 Madison Avenue, New York, designed to render a full Assouline experience, fusing the art of fine publishing with sensory refinement.
Image credit: Assouline
Jul 5, 2024
Van Cleef & Arpels has inaugurated a new L'ÉCOLE School of Jewelry Arts campus at the historic Hôtel de Mercy-Argenteau in Paris, offering public access to museum quality exhibition spaces, classrooms, a special library, and the first bookstore, 'L’Escarboucle', dedicated to the jewelry arts.
The site, respecting the building's architectural heritage with designs led by Constance Guisset, hosts its inaugural exhibition 'Stage Jewels of the Comédie-Française', curated by Agathe Sanjuan, presenting over 120 historical jewelry pieces used in theater.
Image credit: L'ÉCOLE
Jul 3, 2024
% Arabica, in collaboration with Spanish design studio SelgasCano, unveiled its café in Midtown Manhattan next to MoMA, creating a unique design that integrates the building's original spatial characteristics and imperfections into a harmonious space that magnifies visual contrast and natural light.
Image credit: % Arabica
Jul 1, 2024
On the launch of Aesop's first signature store, 'Aesop WF CENTRAL House 19' in Beijing, SELENPARC had the privilege of speaking with Marianne Lardilleux, Aesop's Director of Global Retail Design, about the inspirations behind the space.
Image credit: Aesop
Jun 26, 2024
Once the residence of the Hermès family, Hôtel Particulier Montmartre is a hidden glimpse into Parisian history, tucked away in a secluded passageway.
With only 5 suites uniquely designed with Pierre Lacroix and set in a serene wild garden crafted by landscape architect Louis Benech, the hotel offers a mystical escape while emphasizing biodiversity, creating a unique blend of history, luxury, and ecological consciousness.
Image credit: Hôtel Particulier Montmartre | Yannick Labrousse | Sophie Gaubert | Isabela Mayer | Alexandrena Parker
Jun 25, 2024
Lancôme has collaborated with Nina Métayer, acclaimed as the world's top pastry chef for 2023 and 2024, to open Café de la Rose at the flagship Champs-Elysées location in Paris, presenting pastries that draw inspiration from the rose, Lancôme's emblematic symbol, as well as reflections of her signature ability to infuse classic French pâtisserie with innovative twists.
Image credit: Lancôme | Nina Métayer | Louise Marinig
Jun 24, 2024
Daniel Arsham has collaborated with Kohler on a design project, the 'Landshapes collection', along with a luxury cabin available for rent starting June 24 at Destination Kohler resort, integrating the collection and artistic furnishings with functional designs.
Arsham's installations are showcased throughout the Kohler property, including six large-scale sculptures placed around the golf course, while he has also collaborated with the golf apparel brand Malbon to create a line of gear that echoes the aesthetic themes of his sculptures.
Image credit: Kohler
Jun 22, 2024
Celine, led by Hedi Slimane, has unveiled a Pilates collection, an everyday workout essentials rendered in materials and designs rarely seen in fitness instruments.
The collection, launching in October, includes a Triomphe reformer, kettlebells, dumbbells, a yoga mat & block, weighted bracelets, and an array of activewear.
Image credit: Celine
Jun 20, 2024
Dior launches "Miss Dior Exhibition: Stories of a Miss", designed by architect Shohei Shigematsu of OMA, taking place at the Roppongi Museum in Tokyo from June 16 to July 15, 2024.
The exhibit celebrates the new Parfum through transformative architectural spaces that capture the sensorial essence of fragrance, showcasing scent’s history and its profound influence. The experience includes a Miss Dior Cafe serving floral desserts by Pierre Hermé, and contributions from various artists and designers sharing their views.
Image credit: Dior | Shohei Shigematsu | OMA
Jun 19, 2024
'Library of the Earth' at Kurkku Fields in Chiba, Japan, designed by Hiroshi Nakamura & NAP, is a library submerged into the earth, avoiding disruption of the cultivated soil layer and coexisting with nature.
The broader site, Kurkku Fields, envisioned by musician Takeshi Kobayashi, is a sustainable farm and park that merges agriculture, food, art, and accommodations, combined with the principle of self-sufficiency and renewable energy practices.
Art installations include works by Yayoi Kusama, David Hockney, and Anish Kapoor, and the site hosts various community events that celebrate seasonal changes.
Image credit: Hiroshi Nakamura & NAP | Koji Fujii / TOREAL | Kurkku Fields | Kohei Omachi | Yuka Yanazume | Shinkenchiku-sha
Jun 17, 2024
In light of Kitsuné's latest venture, Desa Kitsuné in Bali, SELENPARC had the pleasure of speaking with Gildas Loaëc, Co-founder and CEO of Kitsuné.
Image credit: Kitsuné
Jun 13, 2024
Kitsuné, the multi-faceted 'Paris meets Tokyo' brand, has unveiled 'Desa Kitsunè', a new concept of luxury hospitality located in Canggu, Bali, offering a unique village-like experience that merges relaxation, culinary experiences, cultural & musical events, and social interaction.
The expansive 5,000 square meters venue houses Café Kitsuné, a Maison Kitsuné boutique, a pool, and the Mediterranean-Latin fusion restaurant Ina Ré, set within an architecture that honors local Balinese and Japanese aesthetics.
Image credit: Kitsuné
Jun 13, 2024
B1 Rooftop Bistro, located atop the Helvetia Campus in Basel, designed by acclaimed architecture firm Herzog & de Meuron, bathes in the illumination of artist James Turrell's captivating light artistry.
As evening arrives, Turrell's lightworks transform the ordinary into a spectacle, inviting a contemplative engagement with light and spatial perception through his work.
The campus, preserving the mid-century architecture with modern elements, hosts public events and art exhibitions, with areas including an Art Foyer, auditorium, and a park by Vogt Landscape Architects.
Image credit: B1 Rooftop Bistro | Herzog & de Meuron | Häusler Contemporary
Jun 11, 2024
Snow Peak, the camping gear and apparel brand, launched 'Yakei Suite Aburayama Fukuoka', a unique accommodation that blurs the lines between indoor and outdoor living, designed by architect Makoto Tanijiri.
Supported by sustainable practices and local economic enhancements, the retreat offers a culinary experience, 'okamochi', that blends French cuisine with outdoor guest engagement in cooking, led by Michelin star chef Hiroki Yoshitake.
Image credit: Snow Peak YAKEI SUITE
Jun 6, 2024
Audeum, a museum of sound and art designed by architect Kengo Kuma, opens on June 5, 2024, in Seoul, where sound engages with full sensory in a design crafted as a symphony of a forest, with 20,000 aluminum pipes that emulate sunlight filtering through trees, and wood enriching acoustics.
Audeum's curated journey traces the chronicles of sonic evolution, presenting a broad array of significant pieces, and the inaugural exhibition, "Jung Eum (正音): In Search of Sound," explores what constitutes "good sound" through the lens of Hi-Fi.
Image credit: Audeum Audio Museum
Jun 4, 2024
Heatherwick Studio, led by designer Thomas Heatherwick, has been selected to transform Nodeul Island in Seoul into 'Soundscape', a cultural space designed as a multi-layered urban retreat for music and art.
Drawn by the flow and variability of soundwaves, Soundscape interacts with the natural rhythms of tides and seasons, unifying nature with the dramatic aerial contours of floating islets that form a 1.2km skywalk, providing vantage points over the city and events below.
Image credit: Heatherwick Studio | Mir
Jun 3, 2024
Kith has opened its first flagship in Korea, the brand's largest to date, spanning four floors including men's, women's, and kids' lines, along with the first Sadelle's restaurant in Asia, a Kith Treats ice cream bar, a vinyl lounge, and a flower shop.
Kith Seoul
70, Yeonmujang-gil
Image credit: Kith
Jun 1, 2024
OGATA Paris, set within a 17th century hôtel particulier in the Marais, embodies the concept of Sahō, the art of living, as a cultural embassy where the sensory arts of Japanese tea, cuisine, and craft are explored and celebrated.
Created by Shinichiro Ogata, a visionary of design and hospitality, this pivotal destination in Paris bridges East and West, providing a seamless journey through intricately curated environments that engage, educate, and inspire through beauty and thoughtful design.
Image credit: OGATA
May 25, 2024
Zenbo Seinei, perched on Awaji Island in Japan, is a unique meditation/yoga retreat for the mind and body, designed by the illustrious Pritzker Prize architect Shigeru Ban.
The retreat, a 100-meter span of timber suspended over the lush canopy, offers an unbroken bond with the verdant environment, seamlessly integrating architecture with the tranquil practices of meditation, yoga, and plant-based nourishment.
Image credit: Zenbo Seinei | Shigeru Ban - Architects
May 17, 2024
Aesop unveiled its first signature store in Beijing, 'Aesop WF CENTRAL House 19', and concurrently launched 'Aesop Home: A Sensory Voyage', a temporary extension to the space running until June 10, 2024.
Set within a historical mansion area, this introspective sanctuary of senses honors traditional courtyard home architecture from a residence once owned by a cousin of the Qing dynasty's last emperor, preserving the original structure while blending modern elements that reflect a deep respect for craftsmanship and materials including large teak structures inspired by classic step-beds and a summer temporary pavilion featuring a retractable structure draped in waterproof canvas and crimson xiangyunsha tea silk.
At Aesop Home, a realm unfolds in the second courtyard where the senses guide the narrative. From the intimate corners of private courtyards to the communal warmth of each house, every area invites reflection and connection, resonating with the art of living that defines the Aesop experience.
Image credit: Aesop
May 16, 2024
On the occasion of Daniel Arsham's 'Bangkok 3024' exhibition celebrating the 10th anniversary of Central Embassy, SELENPARC spoke to Arsham in an exclusive interview.
Image credit: Daniel Arsham | Central Embassy
May 15, 2024
Central Embassy is celebrating its 10th anniversary with Daniel Arsham's first exhibit in Thailand, 'BANGKOK 3024'. This exhibit transforms the space into an archaeological site, merging past with future, and presents cultural icons as decaying relics that challenge and evoke perceptions of time and culture.
Located in Bangkok's most vibrant district, Central Embassy has served as a nexus for luxury retail and culture since 2014, cementing its reputation over the years as a premier art and fashion destination. In celebration of this milestone, SELENPARC conducted an exclusive interview with Daniel Arsham and Barom Bhicharnchitr, the Managing Director of Central Embassy.
Image credit: Daniel Arsham | Central Embassy
May 15, 2024
Piaule Catskill, a modernist wellness retreat in the Catskill Mountains, New York, has collaborated with Fritz Hansen, integrating the outdoor collection 'Skagerak' into the property, emphasizing minimal ecological impact and natural aging processes.
Skagerak, crafted from sustainably sourced wood, includes 43 product series and encompasses pieces designed by notable architects and designers, including a collaboration with the architectural firm Bjarke Ingels Group. Outdoor pieces at Piaule are designed by:
Anders & Lars Hegelund
Aurélien Barbry
Niels Hvass
Povl B. Eskildsen
Stine Weigelt
Image credit: Fritz Hansen | Piaule Catskill | seandavidson
May 14, 2024
Fabula, the much anticipated summer terrace restaurant at the picturesque Carnavalet Museum in Paris, has returned this year for its third season.
This season, the venue has welcomed Chef Thomas Chisholm, a 12th season 'Top Chef' known for his cross-cultural culinary philosophy at Chocho, and Mixologist Vincent Diener, winner of the Bartenders Challenge 2023, who crafts cocktails inspired by the museum's gardens and incorporates botanical elements.
Image credit: Fabula | Maki Manoukian | Cedric Randriamalala
May 10, 2024
Architect Kengo Kuma is designing 'Kempinski Saigon River,' the hotel's first property in Vietnam on the outskirts of Ho Chi Minh City.
Inspired by the vernacular architecture of rural Vietnam and emphasizing natural beauty as the central component of the experience, the design features a lush ratio of 170 trees per person. The project is slated for completion by 2026.
Image credit: Kempinski | Ecovillage Saigon River
May 8, 2024
Cité Radieuse, visionary architect Le Corbusier's post-war masterpiece in Marseille, stands as seminal modernist architecture that influenced the global Brutalist movement, serving today as both a living area and a center of culture that houses an art gallery, hotel, and restaurant.
Chanel unveiled its Cruise 2024-25 collection at the rooftop MAMO art center, underscoring Le Corbusier's enduring architectural relevance in modern culture.
Image credit: Fondation Le Corbusier | Hôtel Le Corbusier | Chanel | Jamie Hawkesworth | Fabien Dendiével
May 3, 2024
The Gardens of Kerdalo, a remarkable botanical garden with over 40 years of history and acquired by fashion designer Christian Louboutin, have been revitalized with a new tea room 'Cherree on the Cake' set in an Anglo-Breton atmosphere, and a boutique for gardening enthusiasts.
The garden, home to over 5,000 plants in English and Italian styles, is renowned for its artistic landscaping and the natural topography of a hilly farm by the Jaudy river, reflecting Christian Louboutin’s vision as a guardian dedicated to unimpeded growth and beauty in a contemplative space.
Image credit: The Gardens of Kerdalo | Florent Tanet | Enora G.
Apr 30, 2024
Toraya, a historic Japanese confectioner, has transformed its Ginza Building with architect Hiroshi Naito, creating a revitalized space that houses the new Balenciaga flagship store, an esteemed ceramic art gallery, an exclusive gastronomy restaurant, and a bar, both led by Chef Kei Kobayashi, the first Asian in France to receive 3 Michelin stars.
Visit www.maisonkei.jp for restaurant reopening details.
Image credit: Toraya | Balenciaga | Ginza Kuroda Toen | Maison KEI
Apr 29, 2024
180 The Strand, a Brutalist landmark in London transformed into a vibrant cultural hub, houses diverse spaces that support and showcase art, hospitality, and businesses, including 180 Studios, Soho House, the Michelin-starred Ikoyi, along with galleries, studios, and a wellness facility.
The Vinyl Factory, a key component of the 180 The Strand ecosystem, hosts a vast multimedia exhibition, REVERB, exploring the intersection of art and sound with over 100 artists from 22 May to 28 September 2024.
Image credit: 180 Studios | The Vinyl Factory | Soho House | Ikoyi
Apr 22, 2024
AMAHARE, a purveyor of fine crafts and art in Japan, has opened a serene space for a gallery and Sweets & Tea Salon in a restored 130 year old house in Kyoto, where historical integrity meets contemplative space that integrates gardens and a courtyard, interplaying with natural light and shifting seasons.
Shouya Grigg, a renowned photo artist and hospitality innovator deeply connected with nature, is currently holding his exhibition at KYO AMAHARE, running until May 12, 2024.
Image credit: AMAHARE | Satoshi Asakawa | Eri Masuda | Yuka Yanazume | Ayumi Sakuragi | Ayumi Okamoto | Shouya Grigg
Apr 20, 2024
Anderson C, a prominent brand specializing in vintage furniture in Korea, has expanded into Seongsu with a new venue that combines a restaurant and café within a space that blends modern and 1960s architecture, serving as both a showroom and cultural hub.
The location is hosting the "I Remember You" photo exhibit by Apple on April 12-13, showcasing international artists' works captured on iPhone, exploring themes of nostalgia and memory.
Image credit: Anderson C | Karl Hab | Vivien Liu | Khan Jae Hun | Mika Ninagawa
Apr 12, 2024
Jacquemus has announced the opening of a new restaurant, beach, and boutique experience in Saint Tropez, marking a return to gastronomic ventures. 'Jacquemus La Renaissance' revamps the interior of a Riviera café & brasserie, emphasizing a light and refined aesthetic inspired by Southern French ambiance.
Image credit: JACQUEMUS | JACQUEMUS LA RENAISSANCE
Apr 10, 2024
MUJI has launched 'MUJI BASE TESHIMA,' a new Airbnb stay on the art-rich island of Teshima, revitalizing a 90-year-old house with a minimalist aesthetic, vintage Japanese furniture, and artworks/crafts by Setouchi artists.
Image credit: MUJI | Airbnb
Apr 9, 2024
Awon, set against the clouds of Jongnam Mountain and bamboo forest in Korea, is a collective space of 250-year-old 'hanok (Traditional Korean house) hotel' with an art gallery and museum, embracing the architectural philosophy of 'borrowing from nature' for structural balance and the beauty of emptiness and form.
The gallery exhibits renowned ceramic artist Ree Soo Jong until May 26, 2024, showcasing his lifelong mastery of moon jars that reflect the beauty of traditional Korean ceramics and embrace natural imperfections.
Image credit: Awon Museum & Hotel
Apr 2, 2024
The Bourse de Commerce, once a Commodities Exchange, restored and redesigned by Tadao Ando over a decade, stands as a temple of art in Paris, blending modern art with historical architecture, inviting emotional connection and reflection through Ando's minimalist designs.
The current installation by Kimsooja reimagines the dome with an invitation to reflection and levitation, and the hidden restaurant, La Halle aux Grains, led by Michelin-starred chefs Michel and Sébastien Bras, offers gastronomy nodding to the historic origin, with a view of the dome and the city.
Image credit: Bourse de Commerce | Kimsooja | La Halle aux Grains | Delphine Constantini
Mar 27, 2024
LE LABO's new flagship & café in Kyoto, set in a former sake brewery built in 1879, blends its original architectural elements with sustainable aesthetics, offering a sensory domain that includes Japan's first café and a Craftsmanship Room that showcases rotating artisan exhibits.
The inaugural exhibit showcases Manabu Kamo's calligraphy on Kuroya Washi paper, capturing the essence of the Satoyama landscape and daily life complexities, with customers able to personalize their product labels with his work at select sessions.
Image credit: LE LABO | Manabu Kamo | Koujudo Oda
Mar 21, 2024
Phillips, a leading global auction house, has announced the opening of the first-ever Phillips Café, situated within its Asia headquarters in Hong Kong.
The café, operated by The Ritz-Carlton, Hong Kong, offers Western and Asian cuisine and is designed by the award-winning studio LAAB Architects, in the WKCDA Tower designed by Herzog & de Meuron.
Image credit: Phillips
Mar 19, 2024
Nikolaj Kunsthal, the former St. Nicholas Church in Copenhagen, repurposed as an art space, is notable for its blend of medieval architecture and modern art exhibitions.
The redesigned café & shop led by architect Morten Emil Engel seamlessly unites historical and contemporary elements, earning praise from architecture and design media.
The venue also hosts unique gourmet events like the 'Red Dinner' amidst an exhibition of art & fashion and offers a wine tasting experience high above the city.
Image credit: Nikolaj Kunsthal | Paolo Galgani
Mar 16, 2024
'Donkou / Kissa Fang' in Kyoto, envisioned by book director Yoshitaka Haba and designed by architect Yasushi Horibe, blends a library and café amidst a cypress forest, embodying a desire for serene, slow-paced urban retreats with its unique blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern design.
The 3,000-book collection showcases Haba's 20-year journey in literature, while the café 'Kissa Fang' offers an introspective coffee experience, specializing in dark roasted coffee made with in-house roasted beans and a flannel drip method.
Image credit: Donkou / Kissa Fang
Mar 14, 2024
Jaime Hayon has transformed the ninth floor of The Hyundai Daegu into 'The Forum', a fusion of culture, café, and garden, drawing inspiration from ancient civilizations, notably the Roman Colosseum and Egyptian and Greek art to craft a dream-like, kaleidoscopic world.
Image credit: Jaime Hayon | The Hyundai
Mar 7, 2024
Halo Paris, in a historical building from 1748, offers a unique blend of fashion and dining, where a concept store/gallery showcases emerging designers and a hidden restaurant led by Chef Victor Blanchet from 3 star L'Arpège and Top Chef 2023 serves Basque and Mediterranean-inspired cuisine.
The space, designed by architect Lucie Rosenblatt of the Mur Mur Architects, exhibits a minimalist interior with a high glass roof from the Eiffel era, transitioning from a naturally lit ambiance to a subdued, candlelit atmosphere in the evenings.
Image credit: Halo Paris | Lauren Spitznagel | Yvan Moreau | ilyafoodstories | Clelia Stevenard | PROJECT 213A
Mar 6, 2024
Shishi-Iwa House, set in the serene landscape of Karuizawa, Japan, is a collection of retreats designed by Pritzker Prize-winning architects Shigeru Ban and Ryue Nishizawa, emphasizing mental and physical well-being and a harmonious dialogue between indoor and outdoor spaces through its architecture.
The retreat offers a Japanese-French restaurant deeply rooted in the passing seasons, a library, lounge, hinoki-scented bathhouse, and a world-class collection of art and furniture.
Image credit: Shishi-Iwa House | Iwan Baan | Jonathan Leijonhufvud | Kazumasa Harada | Hamada Hideaki
Feb 29, 2024
Henri Levy, the artist behind the fashion brand Enfants Riches Déprimés, has opened the ANTI PUBLIC LIBRARY in Paris's Le Marais, offering curated books, vinyls, and a bar in a space crafted with mid-century designs by Le Corbusier, Pierre Jeanneret, and Charlotte Perriand.
The library curates a selection of rare printed works and original vinyl pressings across various music genres, complemented by a choice of natural wines, Japanese sake, American coffee, and Russian caviar.
Image credit: ANTI PUBLIC LIBRARY | Henri Levy
Feb 23, 2024
Portrait Milano, by Ferragamo's Lungarno Collection, set in an ancient seminary, is a luxury hotel in Milan's Piazza del Quadrilatero, the city's newest courtyard for hospitality, wellness, culture, and entertainment, enriched with art.
Design restoration led by legendary architect Michele De Lucchi and interiors by Michele Bönan, mirrors classic Italian elegance and the grandeur of Milan's stately mansions.
Image credit: Portrait Milano
Feb 22, 2024
Louis Vuitton partners with world renowned Chef Gaggan Anand to launch "Gaggan at Louis Vuitton" in Bangkok, marking its first Southeast Asian restaurant venture.
Celebrated for deeply influencing Indian cuisine, Gaggan brings his storytelling and innovative dining approach to this collaboration, continuing his legacy of transforming dining norms.
Image credit: Gaggan Anand | Louis Vuitton | Gaysorn | Albert Ramirez | Jongkol T. Palarit
Feb 17, 2024
Designed by architect Kengo Kuma, AEAJ Green Terrace in Tokyo's Harajuku is an architectural marvel acting as an immense aroma diffuser, crafted from cypress wood and integrating nature with design to promote environmental stewardship and energy efficiency.
This holistic aroma wellbeing facility features an aroma laboratory with 300 essential oils, a library of 1,400 books, a relaxing botanical tea lounge, and a biodiversity-rich aroma corridor, aiming to educate on aroma craft and enhance mental and physical health through sensory experiences.
Image credit: AEAJ | KKAA
Feb 16, 2024
The Kunsthistorisches Museum in Vienna, renowned for its extensive art collections including the world's largest Bruegel collection and masterpieces by Raphael and Rembrandt, also offers a unique culinary experience in its Café-Restaurant situated in the majestic Cupola Hall, where white marble panels and gold decor complement the ornate dome overhead.
The venue offers a culinary experience rooted in Viennese tradition, presenting a broad range of specialties and a weekend breakfast menu, and transforms every Thursday into an intimate dinner setting with a 5-course fine dining and exclusive after-hours museum tour.
Image credit: Kunsthistorisches Museum Wien
Feb 14, 2024
Saint Laurent Babylone, now open at 9 Rue de Grenelle in the historic Sèvres-Babylone neighborhood of Paris, is Anthony Vaccarello's vision of a cultural space, offering a curated collection of rare books, out-of-print records, and exclusive art alongside collaborations with artists and unique YSL merchandise.
More than a bookstore, it resembles a contemporary art gallery and office, hosting events with artists, DJs, and authors to celebrate the interconnectedness of art, books, and music.
Image credit: Saint Laurent
Feb 13, 2024
A&A, an initiative that pairs artists and architects to create hotels in Okayama, envisions art as living pieces, questioning the relationship between form, function, and urban spaces, while opening a dialogue on the role of cross-disciplinary approaches for the environment and local identity.
'Jonathan | Hasegawa' explores the interplay of light and shadow to capture transient beauty of time, space and human perception.
'Liam | Fuji' integrates climate science into architecture, challenging norms and promoting environmental reflection.
Image credit: A&A
Feb 5, 2024
Mercer Labs, a museum of art & technology led by artist Roy Nachum, opens at the former Century 21 site in Lower Manhattan, set to redefine immersive experience thru sensory innovations.
Transforming its 15 exhibition spaces into a sensory-rich exploratory arena, Mercer Labs highlights Roy Nachum's emphasis on perception and inclusivity, evident in installations using Braille and blindfolds, where sound and touch induce an ethereal meditative state.
Image credit: Mercer Labs | Roy Nachum
Jan 31, 2024
Bibliotheque, a rare merge of a bookstore, art, café, and wine bar, has opened in SoHo, New York, by renowned plastic surgeon Dr. Andrew Jacono and his writer son A.J., aiming to be a cultural hub for artists and cultural communities.
The venue offers a diverse collection of over 10,000 books, food and pastries from Épicerie Boulud by acclaimed chef Daniel Boulud, coffee from Lavazza, brewed using a La Marzocco machine, a curated wine selection, and is filled with artworks from renowned artists.
Image credit: Bibliotheque | Épicerie Boulud
Jan 30, 2024
Castello Sonnino, a medieval castle in Tuscany producing Chianti Montespertoli D.O.C.G., is set amidst the scenic beauty of the Florentine hills, offering farm-to-table Tuscan cuisine and accommodations that blend medieval architecture with modern comfort.
Praised by Gucci in their campaigns, the richly frescoed castle combines the production of leading wines and olive oil with environmental sustainability and houses the historical archive of Sidney Sonnino, which holds crucial significance in world history.
Image credit: Castello Sonnino Winery | Andrea Vierucci
Jan 27, 2024
SANAYI313, a multidisciplinary collective in Istanbul led by interior architect Enis Karavil and his brother Amir, operates a space that combines a design studio, gastronomy, and a curated store.
Located in a repurposed auto repair shop in Istanbul, SANAYI313 has transformed the space into a creative hub, presenting a design studio with maximalist-minimalist elements, a Four Pearls-rated restaurant blending Turkish-European cuisine, and a store offering a mix of vintage, rare collectibles and contemporary items.
Image credit: SANAYI313
Jan 22, 2024
Villa Ponti Bellavista, a mid-century villa design by the influential Italian architect Gio Ponti, renovated to blend modern amenities with its original charm, offers dramatic views from its private forest location above Lake Como and accommodates up to 14 people in 6 bedrooms.
This villa, reflecting Ponti's ethos of light, space, and nautical elements, is available for rent through platforms, including its official site and Airbnb.
Image credit: Villa Ponti Bellavista | Gio Ponti Archives | Paolo Gasparini
Jan 19, 2024
Taiga Takahashi, the late artist and fashion designer who reinterpreted traditional aesthetics with modern influences in his brand T.T, created 'SABI', a pavilion for tea omakase above his boutique/gallery in Gion, Kyoto.
In 'SABI', a serene pavilion reflecting 'Wabi-Sabi' and Taiga's philosophy, two-hour artful tea ceremonies are held, where tea-based drinks are paired with seasonal sweets, offering a multisensory journey beyond conventional tea culture, a concept also reflected in his fashion brand.
Image credit: Tea room SABI | Shuhei Tsukiyama | Tomoko Sauvage
Jan 16, 2024
Bathhouse, a wellness destination originating from Brooklyn known for utilizing heat generated from Bitcoin mining to heat its pools and hammams, has expanded to Flatiron, Manhattan for its second location, offering an array of amenities including thermal pools, saunas, treatment rooms, and a nutritious all-day dining experience.
This innovative approach, initiated in 2019 to counter high energy costs, involves using computers designed for Bitcoin mining (ASICs) to efficiently heat the pools, with the mined Bitcoin being retained as a long-term investment for the company.
Image credit: Bathhouse
Jan 15, 2024
Philharmonie de Paris, an architectural music/exhibition venue designed by architect Jean Nouvel, is set to welcome a new restaurant, L'Envol, by Michelin-starred chef Thibaut Spiwack, a rising star in sustainable gourmet cuisine, opening in late January.
Jean Nouvel's architecture, with its mineral-like structure and versatile design, supports diverse musical genres and audience layouts, houses exceptional musical venues created with acoustic innovators, and includes the Belvedere, a rooftop space offering panoramic views of Paris.
Image credit: Philharmonie de Paris | Jean Nouvel | Thibaut Spiwack | W. Beaucardet | G. Lefauconnier
Jan 9, 2024
Selman Marrakech, a family estate at the foot of the Atlas Mountains, is known for its Arab-Moorish palace design by architect/designer Jacques Garcia and its privately bred Arabian horses, providing a majestic Moroccan experience.
The estate, blending traditional Moroccan décor with modern comforts, has announced the enrichment of its culinary offerings in spring 2024 under the guidance of Michelin-starred chef Jean-François Piège.
Image credit: Selman Marrakech
Jan 5, 2024
Architect Kengo Kuma, in collaboration with Uchino Sheet Metal and Okaniwa Construction, designed the Wakuni Shoten café in Higashimurayama City, Tokyo, set to open on January 19, 2024.
Set in a rejuvenated 52-year-old building in the Aoba Shopping District, the café's exterior uses 700 patinated bronze plates from the roof of Hayatani Shrine, interior brass work and furniture by local craftsmen, specialty coffee from Kinoshita Shoten, and chairs designed by Kuma made from repurposed seats of the former National Stadium.
Image credit: Wakuni Shoten café | Uchino Sheet Metal | Okaniwa Construction
Dec 30, 2023
Arc is an innovative experiential sauna system for home, created in partnership between Whipsaw, a renowned design firm, Ancient Ritual, a wellness specialist, and Matthew Schreiber, lighting specialist for artist James Turrell.
The AI driven sauna offers personalized wellness experiences using biometric data, and features natural materials, ergonomic design, and immersive Liquid Chromotherapy™ lighting for enhanced mental and physical well-being.
Image credit: Whipsaw | Ancient Ritual
Dec 28, 2023
Nekoyacho Building, a multifaceted space in Hiroshima designed by 'Suppose Design Office,' an architecture firm renowned for blending indoor and outdoor spaces, functions as an experimental playground, stimulating creativity and health, and fostering exchanges between work, food, art, and relaxation.
This five-floor facility, revitalized from a 50-year-old structure, offers restaurants, an art gallery and event venue, a creative co-working space, a serene stargazing sauna, and evolving areas for relaxation and wellness.
Image credit: Nekoyacho Building
Dec 27, 2023
Luna Luna, the world's first art amusement park, designed by notable artists including Jean-Michel Basquiat, Salvador Dalí, David Hockney, and Keith Haring, has been brought back to life for the first time since 1987.
Originally opened in Hamburg in 1987 and attracting 300K visitors in 7 weeks, the park, once dismantled and forgotten in a warehouse, has been revived in a museum-like setting in LA by Drake and partners with a $100 million investment, with plans to continue its global tour.
Image credit: Luna Luna | Sabina Sarnitz | JWPictures, Inc.| Keith Haring Foundation | Diego Andrade | Igor Furtado | Lauren Kim | Ariel Fisher
Dec 21, 2023
Arctic Bath, a river floating hotel & spa under the Northern Lights in Swedish Lapland, is a wellness focused architectural marvel transitioning in nature through seasons.
Designed by architects Bertil Harström and Johan Kauppi with an eco-conscious approach, Arctic Bath offers a dynamic range of seasonal experiences, from aurora borealis excursions to dog-sledding, and its spa, rooted in the Nordic tradition of hot-cold therapy, provides an authentic Scandinavian spa & wellness experience.
Image credit: Arctic Bath
Dec 20, 2023
Sou Fujimoto's architecture & nature retreat in Okinawa debuts on 'NOT A HOTEL', a unique hospitality brand known for collaborating with renowned architects and offering fractional ownership.
"NOT A HOTEL ISHIGAKI EARTH," is a 10-guest holiday home with a distinctive green roof and cave-inspired architecture blending seamlessly with its natural surroundings, and includes an infinity pool, sauna, and open-air-bath.
Image credit: NOT A HOTEL
Dec 19, 2023
Kith, furthering its presence in the women's line, opened its first Women flagship store in SoHo, NY, a space integrated with café and bespoke floristry in collaboration with PlantShed.
Nestled in the historic Manhattan Savings Institute Bank building and the site of Kith's first Manhattan flagship, the modern elegant space offers gourmet refreshments and personalized floral services with PlantShed.
Image credit: Kith
Dec 18, 2023
Panasonic has unveiled 'Technics café KYOTO' in Kyoto, a new space dedicated to their high-end audio brand, Technics, designed to 'Rediscover Music' and blend advanced sound technology with cultural experiences.
Architect Yusuke Seki's minimalist design, influenced by his passion for Technics turntables and a focus on space's function & context, accentuates the café's role as a hub for music and DJ events, with curated playlists by artists and a transformation into a bar style restaurant in the evenings.
Image credit: Technics
Dec 16, 2023
House of Light, created by artist James Turrell, is a work of art designed as a meditation house that offers beyond daytime encounters, with the full experience of 'light' extending to an overnight stay.
Located in Japan's Niigata Prefecture, it merges traditional Japanese architecture with Turrell's light & space, blending Eastern & Western to create a communal space that captures the 'beauty of shadows'. The theme of light intersection continues in the bathing experience, where an intricate interplay of light is woven within the bath.
Image credit: House of Light | Echigo-Tsumari Art Field | Yamada Tsutomu | Ishizuka Gentaro | Anzai
Dec 15, 2023
Piscine Molitor, a historic Parisian swimming pool known for its avant-garde atmosphere and Art Deco, was once the epicenter of Parisian glamour and fashion, the birthplace of the bikini, and later a canvas for graffiti artists.
Today, Molitor is transformed into a boutique hotel, preserving its heritage while adapting to modern luxury with Art Deco elements and Jean Philippe Nuel-designed rooms.
The hotel, managed by MGallery Collection, features two iconic pools, former changing rooms functioning as an art gallery, French culinary delights, and Clarins Spa.
Image credit: Molitor | Soo Burnell
Dec 14, 2023
SHIGUCHI, a unique 'Gallery Stay' nestled in Niseko's natural beauty and created by fine art photographer and collector Shouya Grigg, revitalizes 150-year-old traditional houses into an art and nature accommodation. It blends Grigg's minimalist and contemplative art with the tranquil cultural heritage of the environment.
The retreat, featuring villas named after the five universal elements and complemented by SOMOZA, an artfully restored traditional Japanese farmhouse serving as both a restaurant and art center, offers a harmonious blend of nature, art, and eco-friendly luxury.
Image credit: SHIGUCHI
Dec 4, 2023
Maison Assouline, a concept space dedicated to culture by the esteemed book publishing house Assouline, is a destination where literature, art, culinary, and travel coexist in a single, innovative setting.
Located in a historic Grade II listed building in London's Piccadilly, designed by the influential architect Sir Edwin Lutyens in 1922, this cultural refuge combines a curated selection of books and art de vivre, exclusive interior furniture, and the Swans Bar's sensory journey through culinary experiences inspired by travel.
Image credit: Assouline
Nov 18, 2023
Le Labo, the cult French fragrance brand overseen by Estée Lauder, designs labs that mirror each city's essence, with their Shanghai location presented with a unique vegan café and library.
Housed in a historic Shikumen building, once a Museum, this two-story flagship blends vintage wabi-sabi aesthetics with many original details still intact. The second floor houses a vegan café, one of only two in the world, and a reading area with books that inspired Le Labo's aesthetic.
Image credit: LE LABO Fragrances
Nov 17, 2023
La Muralla Roja(The Red Wall), located in Calpe, Spain, is a postmodern architectural masterpiece by Ricardo Bofill, inspired by North African design, now home to prominent airbnb spots and cultural icon, notably referenced in Netflix's "Squid Game."
Ricardo Bofill's postmodern, futuristic vision materializes in this complex, all benefiting from natural light that plays off a dynamic color scheme, with amenities like rooftop pools and saunas, and available for rent across various platforms including airbnb.
Image credit: RBTA | Gregori Civera | Daniel Rueda | Jeanette Hagglund | Nacho Alegre | Fred Guillaud
Nov 10, 2023
Casa Maria Luigia, an 18th century property in Modena turned into a hotel by the world-renowned chef Massimo Bottura and his wife Lara Gilmore, is praised as a culinary sanctuary with two restaurants and gourmet breakfasts that channel Bottura's familial traditions.
The property presents a unique confluence of art, music, and heritage that complements the culinary experience; a multisensory journey and a laboratory for culinary ideas.
Image credit: Casa Maria Luigia
Nov 3, 2023
Haruki Murakami, an icon of contemporary literature and a master of magical realism, sees his legacy honored in a library at Waseda University in Tokyo, where he graduated in 1975.
This convergence of cultural wonders, architecturally sculpted by the renowned Kengo Kuma, serves not only as a repository for his works but as a cultural hub for writers, readers, students, and musicians worldwide, offering literature, music experiences, and a café with a coffee blend preferred by Murakami.
Image credit: Waseda University | KKAA
Oct 31, 2023
Bauhaus Dessau, an iconic institution and landmark in modern architecture and design, offers immersive experiences through the Bauhaus Dessau Foundation and accommodates guests within its historic spaces, once inhabited by luminaries like Josef Albers and Marcel Breuer.
With rates starting from €55 for a single room, each guest room captures the Bauhaus era's essence, furnished with designs reminiscent of the period, while the main building hosts various activities.
Image credit: Bauhaus Dessau Foundation
Oct 26, 2023
Kengo Kuma masterfully transformed a nursing home by Lake Toya in Hokkaido into the WE Hotel Toya, blending modern aesthetics with natural beauty, and incorporating locally-sourced materials and innovative fabric designs to create tranquil, organic spaces.
The hotel's design, featuring cave-like common areas and panoramic views of the lake, emphasizes meticulous attention to detail and the harmonization of indoor and outdoor environments.
Image credit: WE Hotel Toya | KKAA
Oct 12, 2023
Raffles Hotels & Resorts has debuted in the UK with "Raffles London at the OWO", housed in the restored historic Old War Office (OWO) building in Whitehall, opening to the public for the first time since 1906.
The OWO, a historic space that once served as offices for figures like Sir Winston Churchill, boasts nine restaurants, three of which are helmed by the renowned Chef Mauro Colagreco. It presents a courtyard pavilion housing Café Laperousé, designed by Daewha Kang to evoke walking into a Georgia O’Keeffe painting, with interiors by Dior's Cordelia de Castellane, and offers indulgences such as the expansive four-story Guerlain Spa.
Image credit: The OWO | Raffles London at The OWO | Café Lapérouse
Sep 30, 2023
Bar Calico at the Freehand Hotel in New York, inspired by Georgia O’Keeffe and named after her 1931 painting, resides in a historic setting that once housed renowned figures in literature and art.
The ambiance mirrors O’Keeffe's Southwestern essence, and its cocktails narrate aspects of her life and artistry.
Image credit: Bar Calico | Freehand Hotels
Sep 28, 2023
Maison Gainsbourg, a former residence of French pop legend Serge Gainsbourg and Jane Birkin transformed into a museum, café/piano bar, and boutique, was brought to life by Gainsbourg-Birkin's daughter, Charlotte, in partnership with Saint Laurent.
Both designed by renowned architect and designer Jacques Garcia, the museum, housing over 25,000 artifacts, offers both permanent and temporary exhibits, while the café/piano bar serves gourmet dishes created by Paris Society.
Image credit: Maison Gainsbourg | Charlotte Gainsbourg | Alexis Raimbault | Christian Simonpiétri / Sygma via Getty Image
Sep 26, 2023
Setouchi Aonagi in Matsuyama, designed by Tadao Ando, began as a museum and has been transformed into a small luxury hotel, melding Ando's signature minimal aesthetics with nature. It is highlighted by amenities such as an iconic 30m-long infinity pool and exclusive art pieces.
Set against the backdrop of the Seto Inland Sea, guests experience profound silence in suites, interrupted only by the sound of a waterfall designed by Ando, savor gourmet seafood, and enjoy private access to a prestigious golf course.
Image credit: Setouchi Aonagi
Sep 25, 2023
Azabudai Hills, a visionary urban village in Tokyo by Mori Building, spans a significant 24,000m² of green space, and is fully powered by renewable energy, showcasing architectural brilliance by Thomas Heatherwick.
The people-focused, nature-enriched enclave encompasses Aman residences, the Janu Tokyo hotel by Aman Resorts, teamLab museum, Pace Tokyo Gallery designed by Sou Fujimoto, and a selection of Japan's premier dining spots.
Image credit: DBOX for Mori Building Co., Ltd | HILLS LIFE DAILY
Sep 16, 2023
Marqués de Riscal, one of the oldest and most reputable wineries in the Rioja region, combines innovative wine with an architectural landmark & hotel designed by architect Frank Gehry, Michelin dining, a pioneering Vinothérapie® SPA Caudalie, and beyond.
Image credit: Marqués de Riscal
Sep 5, 2023
Fondazione Prada, a paramount institution for contemporary art and culture, further accentuates its offerings with artistic culinary experiences - with Restaurant Torre, Bar Luce.
Restaurant Torre, designed by Rem Koolhaas and with a gastronomic menu conceived by Chef Lorenzo Lunghi. Bar Luce, designed by renowned film director Wes Anderson, captures the nostalgic essence of 1950s and 60s Milan.
Image credit: Fondazione Prada
Aug 26, 2023
La Colombe d'Or, a historic hotel & restaurant nestled in the village of Saint-Paul de Vence, has intertwined with the lives of several 20th century art icons, including Picasso, Matisse, Chagall, Leger, Braque, Miro, and Calder.
Some of these icons exchanged and left their masterpieces to settle their bills for rooms and meals. Here, art isn't merely decor—it's a testament to the unique relationships that transformed the hotel into a living canvas.
Image credit: La Colombe d'Or | La Colombe d’Or Lovers Account | Tourist Office Saint-Paul de Vence
Aug 24, 2023
The Venice Venice Hotel, a redefining concept of an art hotel by the founders of Golden Goose sneakers, emerges as a groundbreaking blend of historical heritage and avant-garde creativity.
Situated in Palazzo Ca’ da Mosto, one of Venice's oldest structures, the hotel restores to recapture 13th century grandeur and defies the typical 'art hotel,' where art is not only displayed but becomes an integral part, born with the room. 25 rooms, 25 different immersions, and more ahead.
Image credit: The Venice Venice Hotel
Aug 19, 2023
La Maison Champs Elysées, situated in Paris' Golden Triangle, is a former mansion of the Duchess of Essling transformed into a unique hotel designed by Martin Margiela in 2011.
The design collaboration led to theatrical and unconventional interiors, capturing attention upon entry with immersive decor and surprises that whisper an intertwining journey of contemporary and unobtrusive luxury.
Image credit: La Maison Champs Elysées
Aug 15, 2023
Sanctuary Potato Head Bali offers a wellness experience that blends science, art, and spirituality at Desa Potato Head, the Beach Club with versatile space transitioning from serene days to lively nights.
Located in Potato Head Suites, the Sanctuary provides a unique blend of alternative wellness practices, including Light Sound Vibration (LSV) for sound healing, breathwork, and Breathwork + Ice sessions, all supported by innovative technology.
Image credit: Potato Head | Sanctuary at Potato Head | Joanna Martel
Aug 11, 2023
Fondation Azzedine Alaïa, located at 18 rue de la Verrerie in Paris, is a multifaceted cultural destination preserving the legendary fashion designer's legacy through exhibitions, and also offers a unique experience with its bookstore and Café Restaurant adorned with art - "Le Sein" sculpture by César, concrete lights by Le Corbusier, chairs by Harry Bertoia, and the bookshop's interiors by Jean Prouvé.
Image credit: Fondation Azzedine Alaïa | Alaïa
Aug 7, 2023
Salmon Eye, a free-floating architectural pavilion that commits to ocean sustainability in Norway's Hardangerfjord, sends a message to better feed the planet and presents an immersive culinary journey through its restaurant, Iris. The "expedition dining" offers a multisensory underwater experience and a 6-hour, 18-course tasting journey led by Chef Anika Madsen.
Image credit: Salmon Eye | Iris
Aug 5, 2023
Shinpuhkan, the historical space in Kyoto that has transformed into a lifestyle complex with fashion, retail, culinary, and the first Ace Hotel in Japan, blends the old and new, led by architect Kengo Kuma. Notable brand spaces include Café Kitsuné, Le Labo, Beams, and Bonjour records.
Ace Hotel's main dining room is finally opening on August 10th, three years after the hotel's opening, led by Chef Katie Cole of "Locale" in Tokyo.
Image credit: Shinpuhkan | KKAA | Ace Hotel Kyoto | KŌSA
Aug 2, 2023
Hamilton Princess is a historic art hotel in Bermuda, known as the "Pink Palace," boasting a remarkable collection featuring Andy Warhol, Banksy, David Hockney, KAWS, Yayoi Kusama and more. This Fairmont-managed resort offers modern amenities, waterfront views, and a private beach club, attracting elite travelers and receiving TripAdvisor's "Best of the Best" award.
Image credit: Hamilton Princess
Jul 29, 2023
Hôtel des Horlogers, the eco-conscious luxury hotel of watchmaker Audemars Piguet in Le Brassus, boasts striking architecture designed by Bjarke Ingels, seamlessly integrating into the surrounding landscape and complemented by nature.
With three restaurants overseen by three-Michelin-starred French Chef Emmanuel Renaut, the hotel provides various experiences that celebrate the watchmaking heritage and contribute to the development of travel in Vallée de Joux.
Image credit: Hôtel des Horlogers | Xavier DUVAUT
Jul 27, 2023
Aimé Leon Dore's NYC and London flagships merge fashion, café, and music into an urban ambiance, curating a unique brand experience that embraces culture and the art of living.
The Sound Room at both locations showcases the recently launched 'SOUND', a monthly content series featuring an hour-long DJ set, while Café Leon Dore celebrates Greek culture, offering Freddo Espresso, Cappuccino, Greek mountain tea, and Greek-inspired fare.
Image credit: Aimé Leon Dore
Jul 24, 2023
Villa Mabrouka, the former private residence of Yves Saint Laurent and Pierre Bergé in Tangiers, Morocco, has been transformed into a luxurious boutique hotel by renowned British designer Jasper Conran, featuring mid-century modern-inspired design, lush gardens, and a unique blend of Moroccan and English aesthetics.
Image credit: Villa Mabrouka | Jasper Conran
Jul 21, 2023
Château La Coste, a Provence art sanctuary and winery, mesmerizes with its timeless beauty as art, culinary, and hospitality intertwine, whispering to the soul with an indescribable symphony.
The sprawling 500-acre estate showcases renowned artworks by Ando Tadao, Frank Gehry, Louise Bourgeois, Kengo Kuma and beyond, while Villa La Coste offers luxurious villa suites with private pools and panoramic views of the Luberon, complemented by exceptional dining experiences amidst the breathtaking vineyard backdrop.
Image credit: Château La Coste
Jul 16, 2023
SANA MANE, Naoshima's nature art glamping resort, enriches the art island with Kengo Kuma's spiral SAZAE sauna, crafted through biomimicry-inspired folds of laminated plywood. SANA MANE blends nature accommodations, breathtaking landscapes, outdoor dining, and a serene ambiance, offering guests a unique glamping experience in the Seto Inland Sea.
Image credit: SANA MANE | Kengo Kuma and Associates
Jul 7, 2023
Loulou Paris, the restaurant at the Musée des Arts Décoratifs and situated in Louvre Palace offering a terrace with Eiffel Tower and Tuileries Gardens views has reopened. Its interior is designed by renowned French architect Joseph Dirand and features Jean-Charles de Castelbajac's playful illustrations throughout the space, making it a go-to spot for the fashion industry, hosting events and collaborations.
Image credit: Loulou Paris | Matthieu Salvaing
Jul 5, 2023
le19M, a creative hub and exhibition space in Paris initiated by Chanel, dedicates to crafts, fashion, and artistic collaborations. It is designed by the award-winning architect Rudy Ricciotti and brings together 11 Maisons d'art, Maison ERES, le Galerie du 19M, and le Café du 19M.
Currently exhibiting textile works from Senegal and a haute couture residency, while the recently reopened Parisian bistro café offers a culinary experience that complements the exhibition themes, giving a plant-based twist to street food.
Image credit: le19M | Studio GGSV
Jul 2, 2023
Culture Station Seoul 284, once the nation's rail gateway to Europe and now transformed into a cultural hub, showcases the Heatherwick exhibition, hosts a lunch meditation program called 'Meet the real me,' and offers music tasting experiences, providing a diverse blend of art, mindfulness, and music for visitors to immerse in the spirit of culture and self-discovery.
Image credit: Culture Station Seoul 284 | Heatherwick Studio
Jul 1, 2023
Chanel, Alain Ducasse, and architect Peter Marino converge at the two Michelin star restaurant 'Beige Alain Ducasse Tokyo' and their recently remodeled rooftop garden terrace 'Le Jardin de Tweed,' with Kyoto's legendary bartender Minoru Nishida.
Image credit: Beige Alain Ducasse Tokyo | Le Jardin de Tweed | Peter Marino Architect
Jun 24, 2023
La Tourette, the visionary architect Le Corbusier's last masterpiece in Europe, is an influential UNESCO World Heritage Site and a monastery. Today, it also serves as a place for art exhibitions, a spiritual retreat, and a hotel, exemplifying modernist architecture with its play of light, shadow, and contemplative atmosphere, captivating architects like Ando Tadao.
Image credit: Fondation Le Corbusier | Couvent de La Tourette | Le Progrès newspaper | Elie Vautey | Alexandre Schabel | Jonas Klunemann | Laszlo Horvath | Guillaume de Laubier | Michel Verjux | Javier Callejas | Michael B Frank
Jun 19, 2023
HAUS DOSAN, an innovative retail concept by Gentle Monster in Seoul, redefines conventional retail, and evokes new emotions with striking installations yet minimalist design. It houses sensual artisan cosmetic brand Tamburins and fantasy inspired dessert brand Nudake that have become one-of-a-kind culinary journey in the city.
Image credit: Gentle Monster
Jun 18, 2023
Shiroiya Hotel in Maebashi, Japan, is a city rejuvenation project led by architect Sou Fujimoto. The 300 yrs old historic building is reborn as a work of art, architecture, culinary excellence, and wellness in collaboration with Jasper Morrison, Leandro Erlich, Michelin-starred chef Hiroyasu Kawate, Blue Bottle and others.
Image credit: Shiroiya Hotel
Jun 14, 2023
'Deadstock Coffee' is an inspiring story of a Nike janitor who became a Nike shoe developer, and later a cultural leader in the city, blending sneaker culture, art, and community with their hype expression in the coffee capital of Portland. They offer snob-free, creative signature drinks and actively engage in community involvement.
Image credit: Deadstock Coffee
Jun 9, 2023