Showcasing the finest work of leading architects, interior designers, and home builders.
From Castles to the Kremlin
July 2nd, 2007
As we’ve narrowed down the list for our tour de suites, we’ve identified a number of top contenders among the finest hotels – on several continents.
Among our plans for this summer, a visit to the West coast of Ireland to visit some of the most spectacular castles/hotels/resorts on the Emerald Isle. On the list so far: Dromoland Castle in Newmarket-on-Fergus in Co. Clare; Adare Manor and Glin Castle in Co. Limerick; and Ashford Castle on the shores of Lough Corrib, near Galway.
Thinking presidentially: Russian President Vladimir Putin is meeting with George W. Bush at the Bush family home in Kennebunkport, and coincidentally we’re working on a presidential project in Moscow. Specifically, we’ll be bringing you photos of the newly-opened Ritz-Carlton near Moscow’s Red Square and the Kremlin, which boasts a $16,000 per night Presidential Suite. Stay tuned.
If you’ve got a favorite hotel which we’d be remiss to omit from our profiles, let us know.
Sand Castles
June 10th, 2007
An architect friend of mine once remarked that designing oceanfront homes was the easiest part of his job – even if he totally missed the mark, how could a big house on the beach not be incredible?
There’s much to be said for that sentiment. It’s easy to overlook a lot of flaws when a home has the Atlantic Ocean, the Caribbean, or Lake Tahoe in its back yard.
On the other hand, if your goal is to have the best home at the beach, you’ve got a bit of competition, and an awful high bar to clear.
The theme of At the Beach is simple: awesome waterfront homes, undeniably perfect despite the sandy footprints on the floor.
So let’s apply the SPF45 and do some beachcombing.
Puttin’ on the Ritz
June 6th, 2007
O.K. I’ll admit it. The Suite Life page was motivated (at least in part) by a pet peeve.
Why is it that hotels spend big bucks to design, decorate and accessorize their deluxe suites, but then skimp on the photos when you try to check out their facilities? Is it a state secret?
Sure, there’s always a picture of the bed. Great, now I can confirm that the hotel provides a mattress and linens. And don’t forget the obligatory views of the lobby. Helpful information if I’m planning to camp out by the front desk.
Show me the dang room! What does the bathroom really look like? What kind of toiletries are provided? Is the shower a feature or an afterthought? Can you soak your shoulders and your knees in the tub at the same time? How well stocked is the mini-bar? Don’t tell me – show me! How’s the view? Electronic gadgets and remote controls? Mood lighting? Artwork and decorating? Robes, slippers, choice of pillows? Private outdoor lounging?
What makes this suite really special? All together now: “A picture is worth . . .”
My plan for this department is to give the hotels a forum to strut their stuff. If the Presidential Suite is truly presidential, show us how and why. What do you get for $2,000 per night? Or $5,000? Or more?
Do you have to take your socks off, or will the décor knock ‘em off when you walk through the door?
Rank has its privileges
June 6th, 2007
“Oh, he practically lives at the office.” “This is her second home.”
There’s no denying it, rising to the top doesn’t mean you spend less time working.
Cubicle dwellers have to satisfy themselves with a few knick-knacks, a photo or two, maybe a calendar and perhaps a favorite screen saver. At the end of Executive Row, however, the big office with windows on two walls offers room for a little more creativity.
It often makes a statement about its occupant and how she or he got there.
Of course, some companies try to be a little more egalitarian. The keyword, of course, is try. Even in those fair-minded companies, not everyone gets to sit in the skybox, ride in the company jet, or spend the weekend at the company retreat.
What do you find in all of these places? Comfort. Style. Power. And the work of talented designers and decorators.
So let’s take a look at the places where business gets done – the view from the top.
Après-ski
June 6th, 2007
Ask any serious skier, and they’ll tell you. Skiers are “different.” Speed. Grace. Style. Daring. Deep powder. Hot tubs.
Any builder or architect will tell you, too – building on the side of a mountain is “different.”
Go to the top ski destinations, and it should be no surprise to find ski lodges, chalets and resort homes with eye-popping architecture and unique style. Flash. Warmth. Polished wood. Polished chrome. Walls of glass walls. Walls of stone. Fire. Ice.
If you’re an artist whose canvas tilts sharply to one side, your work can’t help but express a unique perspective. And if you’re lucky enough to find a discerning and appreciative audience, it’s heaven on earth.
In the world of luxury homes, it’s called life on the slopes.
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