In South Africa, this contemporary and flexible house of 1,120 square meters was built on a cliff offering spectacular views. The show is on both sides of the dizzying window.

It is not the first project of SAOTA in Cape Town. Unlike! Based in this city, this study is one of the most recognized in South Africa, a country that recently emerged some of the most interesting residential proposals in the world. To conceive of this family home, the architects Philip Olmesdahl, Tamaryn Fourie and Thaabe Ramabina carefully studied the site, which stands out for being visually exceptional as technically challenging. In effect, we had to take advantage of the slope located on the edge of a cliff. The stunning 270-degree views to the Atlantic Ocean, Camps Bay and the mountain chain of the Twelve Apostles are one of the must of the house. In addition to the orientation mainly towards the south also it had to take into account exposure to the prevailing winds in the area.

In order to create ample space to house the living rooms (living room, kitchen andfamily room), SAOTA professionals decided to raise the main level on one type of socket, never forget to consider the surrounding landscape. Thanks to this system, it was possible to isolate these areas from street noise and provide more privacy.

The second and third floors -reunidos by a glass bridge that allows natural light to bathe all interiors- spaces were fragmented and consist of a sheltered terrace. “Because of the slope and the resulting excavation, the structural framework of the house appears to be a continuation of natural ground,” said Tamaryn Fourie.

Throughout the house we were able to give a feeling of spaciousness and bright light through the shutters and glass windows from floor to ceiling that open completely to the outside. The materials chosen, rather than oppose, creating a visual balance and help to strengthen the extremely contemporary aesthetics of this apartment. This is the case for example of the glass staircase partially coexists with a concrete wall. Natural stone on the floor and aluminum structures windows were also used.

The ground floor gathers a study, gym, massage room and guest quarters while the rooms are on the second floor and have their own bathrooms and private balconies.Members of Lazard Janine Interiors handled the interior design of this project is characterized by elegant and luxurious without ostentation.

Decorated in white cloth background with fine finishes and fabrics, the master bedroom is a haven of peace to enjoy the sublime view of the ocean and mountains.The fireplace, custom built, helping to create a cozy atmosphere and the outdoor shower is definitely icing on the cake.

Being surrounded by such a majestic natural environment with lush vegetation and rich colors, it was essential to take inspiration in the landscape, assess it and consider it as part of the project.

source: Architectural Digest

The Dior Suite

Launched in 2010, this 400m2 suite is designed with a dramatic home cinema entrance allowing the client to walk in and discover the Dior heaven.

Stone and Hungarian wood floors lead to a large dining table surrounded by famous Louis XVI medallion chairs upholstered in a gray and silver fabric.

The living room has a huge Dior gray curtain in red piping and charcoal moulded panels. On the sofas sits pleated red Dior cushions that fill this historic suite.

Everything is designed to custom including embroidered sheets with a headboard replicating Dior wickerwork, frosted glass bathroom doors and a silver wooden walk-in closet.

The suite has been designed to represent the savoir-faire of Christian Dior: stylish furniture from the XVIII century combined with the contemporary creations of Nathalie Ryan, made by skilled craftsmen using bronze and wood and rich fabrics like silk and velvet.

Everything breathes the spirit couture Dior!

The Entrance of the Hotel

With an exciting night-life, grand accommodations, and a dedication to eco-friendly quality, the Hôtel Majestic Barrière in Cannes has something for everyone …, especially if you want to spend your time in one of the most famous suites of the world, the Dior Suite.

I wish I could get one of those crown ornaments. They are really classy…!

Love the pictures of the interior of the Palaces. Everything is so beautiful at Christmas there..!

Fantastic Christmas tree…! Maybe the classiest ever…!

Stunning Grand  staircase and decorations. Love the bright colours with the green (and the red carpet).

Merry Christmas to all  in the Buckingham palace ! ” Great job ”

photos courtesy of

The British Monarchy

Nestled below Lions Head this family home capitalises on spectacular views. The architecture draws strength from the concrete finish used to create monumental forms which contrast to the copper roof.

From the architect. Brief

The Brief was to create a spectacular home which encapsulated the expansive 360 degree mountain and sea views. Though views out were paramount this needed to be carefully balanced with the required privacy from within. The living areas were to be open plan – enhancing everyday life. “The architecture needed focus on creating a contemporary, uncluttered and sculptural building,” said Tamaryn Fourie, senior associate and project team member.

Site

The site is excellently positioned on the mountain ridge below Lions Head with views of Robben Island to the North and Camps Bay and the Twelve Apostles to the South.

Approach

Working with a relatively steep site and the fact that the Southern boundary is shared with a National Park, the design took on a sensitive approach.

The secondary spaces were positioned at the lower levels with care taken to limit excavation. From the road these levels are concealed by a large North facing landscape wall – its customised angular design achieves a natural result. Strategically positioned penetrations within the landscape wall permit natural light and ventilation to the rooms beyond but glazing is set back and thereby concealed.

“On arrival at a mid-level one is lured through the main garage with its double volume and graffiti walls towards the shaft of light and splash of landscaping emanating from the glazed Entrance Area beyond.

Sculptural timber clad stairs wrap themselves around a centrally positioned glass lift and take one to the upper levels of the house,” says Philip Olmesdahl, SAOTA director and project team member. The building is limited to only two storeys above the ridge. The main living areas, pool terrace and garden are below with the family bedrooms strategically positioned at the uppermost level for privacy.

The ‘layering’ of the house permits different experiences in difference spaces. From the main stairs the linearity of the customised cast bronze coffee bar leads one into the ‘heart of the home’ – the Kitchen.

The Kitchen in turn spills into the Dining Room and the Summer Lounge with its high ceiling of ribbed concrete.

The Winter Lounge is also adjacent to the Kitchen but this time the ceiling is lower – framing the view – which together with the centrally positioned fireplace creates an intimate space for more informal gatherings.

“Throughout this level boundaries are blurred and there’s a wonderful continuity between internal and external living – it’s a house for all seasons and plays off the mood of the climate and surrounding landscape,” said Tamaryn Fourie.

The large gallery type spaces emphasise the magnetism of the site and its ever present backdrop of the mountains and the sea.

A courtyard ‘cuts’ into main living areas – its waterfeature and delicate weathered Cor-Ten screen ensures a tranquil and sheltered space.

The base of the waterfeature is glazed to scoop refracted light into the main garage below. The ‘woven’ Cor-Ten screen playfully reflects light internally whilst also offering privacy to the bedroom level above.

“The aesthetic of the top two storeys – when viewed externally – is of monolithic white concrete beams. Their weight is accentuated as they seem to ‘float’ on light glazed facades,” says Joe Schützer-Weissmann. With limited walls and columns this house is all about the view – even glazing has reduced mullions wherever possible.

A ribbed pre-cast concrete soffit creates continuity between the living spaces with all services being carefully co-ordinated so as to disappear within recesses. All off-shutter concrete was cast using a customised white concrete mix. Once cured this was sandblasted to reveal a fine – carefully selected – aggregate resulting in a robust and unprecious look. The thin eaves of the zinc roof are also delicate in contrast to the massive beams below and appears to hover above the upper level.

The polished concrete floors of both the internal and external living areas ensure their seamless continuity. The timelessness of natural oak is celebrated and combined with feature brass insets for bedroom floors and all internal joinery.

The master bedroom which is on the uppermost level is set back from the boundary line to increase privacy from the mountain paths. “An expansive planter off the main bedroom reiterates the importance of the natural surroundings and their connection with the sea views beyond,” noted Philip Olmesdahl.

• Architects: SAOTA
• Location: Bantry Bay, Cape Town, South Africa
• Design Team: Philip Olmesdahl, Tamaryn Fourie & Joe Schützer-Weissmann
• Interior Decor: Studio Parkington
• Project Year: 2014
• Photographs: Adam Letch

source: http://www.archdaily.com/

Big Thanks !

The Villa is nestled on the  Paradise area cliffs  overlooking the Aegean sea. The view is breathtaking…! It is located  between the popular Paraga and Paradise beaches, in a privileged place  of unique  natural beauty and awesome surroundings.

The spacious  interior is strongly inspired  by Ancient Greek Culture, with  original art pieces all over the space, handmade furniture , of  premium wood and white textiles of high quality. White handmade curtains , made of linen and handmade lace, white textiles , relaxing  atmosphere with original signatute…

There are eight  suite bedrooms with private bathrooms,  dressing area,  and the most important balcony with  sunrise and sunset sea view.

4.7km from Chora town with cosmopolitan shopping and dining amenities – Mykonos truly offers the best of both worlds, whether you seek a get away escape or entertaining fine or traditional dining and socializing.

As it is widely known, Mykonos is the most cosmopolitan island in the Cyclades and one of the most cosmopolitan worldwide. It is also one of the finest examples of Cycladic architecture. Traditional and cubic houses with flat roofs, wooden coloured doors and windows create a unique atmosphere which reflects the main features of the traditional style which is popular worldwide. Despite its tourist development, Mykonos island is proud for its strong Cycladic identity that matches perfectly with the folklore art of the island and the Venetian tradition.

Villa Pasiphae  is a typical  model of  Cycladic architecture with the amenities and the luxury of a five star Hotel,   ensuring  a unique experience for elite holidays in Mykonos.

In the villa’s 4,000 sq mt grounds you will find 20m pool with sea water, Jacuzzi, sauna and leisure suite, snooker table, outside bar & entertainment pavilion, and surround sound system. An Ideal villa for family holiday, social entertainment and corporate hospitality with fast wi-fi connection. The villa  residents can unwind amidst the tropical flora of the fragrant garden, enjoy a refreshing swim in the  swimming pool and make use of the vast sunbathing areas.

Steps down to the sea with docking point for the owner’s  Ferrteti 68ft yacht, which is  available upon request, sailing to surrounding Cycladic islands. Private Helicopter port,  Rental includes housekeeper. Extra maids available upon request.

Luxury Sauna with fine greek marble

Mykonos was among the Greek islands that attracted the Venetians, a reason that is highly appreciated by the many tourists who see many characteristics from the Venetian culture. Apart from the medieval castle of Gyzi that stands in Ano Mera, the most characteristic part of Mykonos inspired by the Venetians is Little Venice. It is by far the most attractive quarter of this island, known for the whitewashed stone built houses sitting at the edge of the sea with their colorful balconies literally hanging over the the water.

With a 24 hour service on call,  Pasiphae luxury villa in Mykonos is  prepared to fulfill every need and desire and turn all dreams to a super reality.

Book this  amazing  Villa from $2.000 daily here,  through message to : iokasti75@gmail.com

The price may be different from month to month.

• Beach / lakeside relaxation
• Swimming pool
• Great for children of all ages
• Air conditioning
• Some pets are welcome – please contact us
• Private garden

• Jacuzzi or hot tub, Sauna, Log fire, Internet access, DVD player, Boat available, Sea view
  Pool	Private outdoor pool (unheated)
  General	Central heating, Air conditioning, TV, Video player, CD player, Telephone, Fax machine, Pool or snooker table, Table tennis, Games room, Satellite TV, Wi-Fi available
  Standard	Kettle, Toaster
  Utilities	Clothes dryer, Dishwasher, Cooker, Microwave, Fridge, Freezer, Washing machine
  Rooms	8 bedrooms, 18 bathrooms of which 10 Family bathrooms and 8 En suites, Solarium or roof terrace

• Sleeps up to 20, 8 bedrooms
  Will consider	Corporate bookings, Long term lets (over 1 month)
  Family friendly	Great for children of all ages
  Notes	Some pets are welcome – please contact the owner, Yes, smoking allowed

The unit includes 3.5 bathrooms and spans roughly 3,000 square feet, according to the listing on StreetEasy. The unit would serve perfectly as a getaway for the queen’s grandsons, or maybe even as her own getaway. Only, of course, if she decides to resign and hand the rei(g)ns to her son Charles. Norman Foster designed the building. The starchitect was knighted by the Queen in 1990.

Take a closer look at the Queen’s new space:

One of the three bedrooms in Gerard van Bohemen’s New York digs.

The Manhattan pied-a-terre is decked out in sleek, modern finishes.

It is not hard to see the appeal of the luxury development.

Spanning 279 square metres, the three-bedroom, three-bathroom pad has floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the East River.

Designed by Sir Norman Foster, the elite condominium complex features a 23-metre swimming pool, sauna, steam and massage rooms and gym.

source :  The Real Deal

Hong Kong is known around the world as the City of Life, for few places can match its vibrant, ceaseless energy. Feel the vibe as you journey from the  entrance on Austin Road all the way to the lobby on the 103rd floor of The Ritz-Carlton, Hong Kong, one of the finest 5 star hotels in the upscale West Kowloon enclave.
Where Hong Kong Island has The Peak, Kowloon has the International Commerce Centre (ICC). Seated atop this majestic structure, the seventh tallest in the world, and the highest in Hong Kong, the stunning luxury hotel boasts incomparable views of Victoria Harbour and the glimmering skyline of neighbouring Hong Kong Island. Inside, soaring architectural elements encrusted with custom glass artwork echo the signature glamour of the city below.

The spirit of this multidimensional city flows throughout every corner of The Ritz-Carlton, Hong Kong, from the hotel’s  two Michelin-starred restaurants, to  awe-inspiring  118th-floor bar, Ozone, the highest of its kind.

Your dream vacation begins with a panoramic view of Hong Kong at the #HighestHotel in the world.

A destination for locals and international travellers alike, the  luxury hotel has become a microcosm of this vast and diverse city filled with excitement and exuberance.

Offering 312 rooms, it occupies the 102nd to 118th floors of the Sun Hung Kai Properties-owned International Commerce Centre, making it the world’s-highest hotel. The hotel features both a bar and a pool located on the 118th floor, which are the highest bar and swimming pool in the world, at 484 metres (1,588 ft) above ground level. The owner  is Sun Hung Kai Properties.

The hotel opened for business on 29 March 2011.

The 2,800 m² or 30,000 sq ft Presidential Suite is on the 117th floor. The hotel’s arrival lobby is on the 9th floor where guests are greeted by receptionists and taken to express elevators. The express elevators take guests 425 m (1,394 ft) above the ground in 50 seconds to the main lobby on the 103rd floor.

Guest keycards are required to use the hotel elevators to access the hotel rooms on floors 104–117 and the swimming pool and gym on floor 118. An exclusive club lounge for guests staying in club rooms and suites is located on floor 116 along with the spa.

Three restaurants, Tosca (an Italian restaurant), Chinese restaurant Tin Lung Heen are located one floor below reception on floor 102, while CAFÉ 103 is on floor 103.

Tin Lung Heen has been honoured with two michelin stars.

Tosca is presided by two star Michelin chef  Pino Lavarra. Tosca was honoured with one Michelin star only eight months after Chef Pino took over as director.

The suite can be reserved for a Summer romance at 420 meters above sea level.

Indulge in a wonderful afternoon filled with complimentary flow of Dom Pérignon Champagne and a tempting semi-buffet at Ozone.

Surrounded by an exquisite book collection and the expansive ocean view, the Club guests enjoy moments of tranquility at The Club Lounge Library.

Amongst all public parks in Hong Kong, Nan Lian Garden distinguishes itself for its classical Tang Dynasty style. The delicate Chinese architecture, the scenery of rocks and ponds, and the lush and vibrant plants will give you a unique impression of Hong Kong.

Hong Kong is not just a modern metropolis. At the Hong Kong Global Geopark of China at Sai Kung, you will be amazed by the abundant natural resources and endless views of the blue ocean.

Join the afternoon Harbour Cruise at Tsim Sha Tsui Star Ferry Pier. It is a great way to explore the city. You may also visit the Avenue of the Stars, the famous Golden Bauhinia and the Maritime Museum.

It is beyond compare to enjoy a relaxing afternoon at a sky-high spa with my dearest Company….

Tai Kok Tsui Ferry Pier, located on the Kowloon side, is on our list of “Hidden Gems in Town”. You will enjoy a great view of the Kowloon peninsula and Hong Kong Island, and discover the daily lives of local fishermen.

The pool is located on top of the world!

A lovely afternoon at The Lounge & Bar stars a classic English tea set with aerial views of Victoria Harbour.

Grilled lobster, rib eye steak, sea bass, an extensive selection of cheeses sourced from Italy. There is always a reserved  table for you and your loved ones to enjoy a delectable Sunday Brunch at Tosca through here :.http://goo.gl/FCDv4B

Ozone Bar

Get sky high and spend a wonderful Saturday night with your dearest ones. Enjoy stylish surrounds, mouthwatering drinks and breathtaking views.

Unveil the weekend with a bottle of bubbly and tempting tapas at the world’s highest bar. http://goo.gl/2tW811

A platter of juicy oysters is best paired with white wine and a fascinating sunset viewed from The Lounge & Bar. http://goo.gl/Ob0C91

Make this Dragontini as a toast to a happy Friday at Ozone.

To soothe your skin in the allergy-inducing season of spring, The Ritz-Carlton Spa by ESPA launches a unique Shell Power Treatment, optimizing the time-tested therapeutic benefits of both cold and warm tiger striped clam shells. http://goo.gl/6pa1nz

A “suite” getaway with breathtaking views of Victoria Harbour awaits at the #HighestHotel in the world.

The Ritz-Carlton, Hong Kong is one of the 115 hotels worldwide to achieve Forbes Five-Star, and The Ritz-Carlton Spa by ESPA is one of the 48 spas worldwide to achieve Five-Star, the third consecutive year among the highest-rated.

Miami architect Chad Oppenheim came up with the original concept for the 30,000-square-foot, three-story dwelling, modeling its sculptural massing of rectilinear forms and astonishing cantilevers after an unrealized pro­­posal he had for a group of Caribbean villas. “I wanted the house to have the feel of a resort,” recalls Bay, who is based in Miami but uses the residence for parties and relaxation during trips to L.A. “I looked at the first sketch Chad showed me and said, ‘That’s the house I want!’ ” Architect Mark Rios of the L.A. firm Rios Clementi Hale Studios, in turn, translated that vision into nuts-and-bolts reality, collaborating closely with decorator Lorraine Letendre, who created the main living and bedroom spaces. Designer Lynda Murray, meanwhile, tackled the spa, gym, and lower-level guest quarters. Add to this formidable roster of talent a battalion of contractors, engineers, artisans, and consultants, and one 
begins to fully grasp the ambition of the undertaking.

The master bath’s walls, floor tile, tub, sinks, and vanity are crafted from Italian travertine; the showerhead is by Dornbracht.

A Michel Mouffe painting and a Thai Buddha head surmount the master suite’s bespoke walnut platform bed and integrated headboard; the blanket is by Calvin Klein Home, the Alison Berger lamps are from Holly Hunt, the sofa is by Flexform, and the rug is by Mansour Modern.

Considering its size, the house makes a relatively discreet impression from the street, with much of the structure’s bulk carved into the hillside and concealed from view. Once encountered straight on, however, the scheme is a tour de force of architectural acrobatics, its breathtaking overhangs and column-free spans engendering a palpable sense of weightlessness. This quality is perhaps most eloquently expressed in the two independent volumes balanced atop the house’s main level—one a bedroom suite for Bay, the other for VIP guests.

Occupying a discrete volume atop the house’s main level, the master suite opens onto a rooftop terrace and the entry’s massive skylight. The James Perse chair and ottoman are upholstered in a Sunbrella fabric.

Parked in the garage are (from left) a 2013 Lamborghini Aventador, a 2010 Ferrari 458, and a 1967 Chevrolet Camaro, all of which made cameos in Bay’s Transformers series.

Designer Lynda Murray collaborated with Jeff Cooper Architects on the home theater, whose dome is embedded with LED lights.

A sparkling infinity pool borders the home’s main level; the outdoor furniture is by James Perse.

Bay is flanked by his English mastiffs, Rebel (left) and Bonecrusher, in the entry.

Director Michael Bay commissioned this stunning three-story Los Angeles residence, which was originally conceived by architect Chad Oppenheim and realized by the architecture firm Rios Clementi Hale Studios and interior designer Lorraine Letendre, with additional work by decorator Lynda Murray; the poolside chaise longues are by RH.

Source: Architectural Digest

Just 11 months later, the house is already back on the market, with mostly the same numbers that were reported last year: current listing still says the house was built in 1958, and it still notes the exact same square footage — 3,651 — as last year’s listing. It still has 4 bedrooms and 4 (and a half) bathrooms.

One number, however, has changed a lot. The asking price is almost triple last year’s, at $15,450,000.

As with so many Hollywood-style makeovers human and architectural, the interiors are for all intents and purposes unrecognizable.

Where once you had wall-to-wall carpeting, now you have wide wood planks topped with sisal rugs. Where once you had half-walls and step-down rooms, now you have wide-open living. Most dramatic of all, the house has been utterly opened to the sea air, with retractable walls of glass seemingly everywhere.

Incidentally, this home is roughly across the street from Julia Roberts’ Malibu mansion — and just down the street from Sean Penn’s “Fast Times”-meets-“Dead Man Walking” hacienda, for which he’s asking $6,550,000. (It’s not as close to the beach, though.)

The first space, from designers at Ando Studio, uses white to create a truly posh look. In contrast to white molded walls and linen sofas, are a few bold black stripes and of course some gilded accents. An ornate mirror, a silvery candlestick, and even a striking rusted gear art piece/conversation starter each create their own force fields of interest, adding their personality to the otherwise white, chilled out space. With the addition of a plush purple modern wingback chair, this white house takes a turn towards contemporary royalty.

Via

• Interior Design Ideas

Big Thanks !