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Panoramic Views in Barcelona

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Panoramic Views in Barcelona

Floor to Ceiling Windows

Nestled in the prestigious Pearson Gardens of Barcelona, a new era of luxury living is quietly unfolding. Three new villas, Villa Grande, Villa Alta, and Villa Botanica, have been crafted by the acclaimed Madrid-based design firm, A-Cero. Each property presents a unique narrative of high-end living that the luxury realm is buzzing about.

In the upscale and verdant enclave of Pedralbes, Villa Grande, Villa Alta, and Villa Botanica command panoramic views of Barcelona’s skyline and the Mediterranean Sea. Stepping inside, residents are greeted by exquisite design and craftsmanship, from soaring ceilings to floor-to-ceiling windows that flood the interiors with natural light.

Our Favorite: Villa Grande

This property stands as a testament to grandeur, boasting expansive living spaces and sprawling gardens. The Sky Garden is a summer daydream for family living and entertaining and the architecture borders on sculptural. 

Villa Alta can be found perched atop Barcelona’s natural landmarks. It was designed for sophisticated hosting, with skyline living spaces seamlessly blending with lush rooftop gardens and a there’s a 67-meter swimming pool. Villa Botanica, with its moon-shaped garden and private pool, also provides a serene retreat amidst Barcelona’s bustling streets.

With completion slated for June 2024, Villa Grande, Villa Alta, and Villa Botanica beckon discerning buyers to indulge in luxury living. Discover the allure of Pearson Villas and secure your place in Barcelona’s most coveted address today.

Why Barcelona?

This famed city presents a blend of historical charm and contemporary allure, making it a prime destination for high-end luxury living. 

The Mediterranean climate provides year-round sunshine, ideal for outdoor pursuits and leisurely lounging. The city boasts a vibrant cultural scene, with world-class art, architecture, and gastronomy at every turn. From Michelin-starred restaurants to designer boutiques along the iconic Passeig de Gràcia, Barcelona caters to refined tastes. 

A prestigious neighborhood such as Pedralbes feels utterly exclusive due to its stunning views and the quiet but convenient lifestyle just outside the bustling city.
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Dark and Moody

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By Alyssa Gautieri

Rich Color Palette

Moody interiors are defined by dark colors like blues, purples, and grays — as well as bold reds, deep purples, and rich greens. Depending on the hue, dark color palettes evoke distinct feelings and emotions.

According to Lance Thomas of Thomas Guy Interiors, “darker red and plum tones evoke a sense of sensual regency, perfect for a bedroom or wine room. Deeper blues tend to push more masculine and aristocratic, perfect for an office space. Deeper greens remind me of an English library and would make for a fantastic home theater or study.” Light-colored pieces pop when paired with a dark backdrop, whether it’s jet black, navy blue, or emerald green. Use light upholstery or soft wood accents to create contrast in a moody space. In an interior with dark walls and dark furnishings, crisp white ceilings create intriguing contrast and the illusion of added height.

“A moody interior is an evocative space that envelops a sense of intimacy and warmth,” says Thomas. “Since darker walls recede, a well-designed moody space makes a room feel both larger and more intimate, simultaneously.” Moody doesn’t always mean dark. “I think you can achieve moody with mid-tones of a neutral as well,” interior designer Chad Dorsey says.

Consider warm browns and creams or soothing shades of gray. Using tones, shades, and tints of the same color can create a monochromatic look that feels deep and dramatic. “I think a monochromatic color scheme works best, along with the use of wood and metals,” adds Dorsey.

dark and moody home decor
dark home design

“A moody interior is soothing and warm; it feels like a mental break.”
— Mary Patton

Soft Lighting

Whether in the bedroom, living room, or bathroom, lighting is an essential element to craft the personality and ambiance of a space.

If a room is full of dark hues, it’s important to consider how artificial and natural light reflects in the space — particularly when dealing with dark colored walls, ceilings, or floors. Light also reflects differently when the room is full of rich textures, like luxurious velvets, plush rugs, or natural linen.

“Lighting is incredibly important when designing a moody space,” says interior designer Mel Bean. “Any direct light exposure feels like an even more intense glare in a dark space.”

Use indirect lighting, such as directional recessed lighting, to highlight elements in the room without glare. Dimmers can help ensure the space is well lit and functional throughout the day. “Ambient soft lighting is crucial,” says Thomas. “Try to avoid the use of overhead lighting, which will eliminate the beautiful contrasts and shadows a moody room requires. Lamp and sconce lighting is the surefire way to go.”

“Perhaps the most important component is lighting,” adds interior and furniture designer Michelle Gerson. “Warm, dim lighting can be key to create a dark and moody space.”

dark bedroom inspiration

 

 

“When I think of moody interiors, I think dark and cozy rooms with dramatic details. It feels inviting, intimate, and your choice of soothing or exciting – depending on the details.”

— Mel Bean

Luxe Textures and Accessories

From velvet to leather, luxurious textures inject personality into a room and determine the tone of space. Suedes, mohairs, leathers, flocking, and velvets work well to craft a warm, dramatic interior. “Necessary textures to enhance the moody vibe need to be tactile
and luxe,” says Thomas, who leans toward dark suede wallcoverings.

“The inspiration for my Boston Victorian home project was to create a high drama space that also feels cozy and livable,” says Michelle Gerson. “The black grasscloth walls and furniture create a sultry moodiness, while the white ceiling, patterned carpet, and metallic accents provide interest and glam.”

“Dark wood paneling is often forgotten when creating a moody space and tends to be my favorite execution of creating a moody warmth,” adds Thomas. “It’s essential to consider a range of textures in order to avoid the space feeling flat.”

bedroom decor

Gerson is drawn to natural materials such as wood, marble, and plaster to create depth.

“I’ll mix in a metallic tone for a bit of drama,” she says. Whether with gold, brass, or chrome, metallics are a great way to add a layer of intrigue to a moody interior.

Combined with rich hues, accessories and artwork also make a more powerful statement. “A moody interior is bold, but calm at the same time; comfortable, but dramatic; and finally, moody interiors are functional, but they give stage to amazing design pieces,” says Marco Costa, CEO of Boca do Lobo.

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The Cubicle Reimagined

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Transformed by technology, world-class design and a pandemic, the workplace has evolved into much more than a warehouse for employees.

Seas of cubicles long believed to be the model of efficiency in the American workplace — a more advanced iteration of the typing pools that preceded them — presented an uninspiring, even dystopian environment for employees. But then, innovative corporations, led by technology and entertainment industry enterprises, pioneered flexible spaces that look more like resorts than offices. Today, designers continue to push the envelope in an era when some employees are still thousands of miles from headquarters.

 

Gensler is a global architectural firm whose portfolio includes megaprojects like the 127-story Shanghai Tower (China’s tallest) and Fortune 500 corporate headquarters. Natalie Engels, design director and principal at Gensler, reports that the firm’s own survey research prior to the pandemic revealed the workplace simply was not working, and that COVID was a catalyst for long-overdue changes. “Returning to work provided an opportunity to focus on how teams collaborate, and how to create an inclusive experience for all members, whether participating in-person or virtually,” says Engels, who has reshaped workplaces for Amazon, Hewlett-Packard and Adobe.

 

Engels explains that more flexibility is being incorporated into workplace design, with assigned spaces for individual work, collaborative spaces for teams, quiet deep- focus spaces away from distractions, and engaging environments for socialization all recognized as essential. The corner office still exists, but Gensler increasingly designs for a more inclusive, team-based dynamic, advises Engels, who states, “The human factor — the need to be around other people regardless of role or title — is driving those decisions.”

Among Gensler’s notable workplaces is Silicon Valley’s corporate headquarters for NVIDIA, the high-flying chipmaker leading the artificial intelligence (AI) revolution. Its amenities include diverse dining options, a fitness center and a room for employees to blow off steam with video games powered by NVIDIA’s cutting-edge chips. While technology firms first introduced amenity-rich campuses, Engels notes that food-and-coffee, wellness centers and outdoor spaces are now de rigueur across all industries. While some companies insist on immersing employees in their corporate colors, Engels notes that traditional grays and beiges of workplaces are being replaced by more saturated jewel tones that evoke emotional responses. “Artists from the local community are often commissioned to provide murals or sculptures, which can be quite large, and digital art can create personalized content for specific visitors,” reports Engels.

HOK, another architectural firm with signature projects on multiple continents, has dedicated an entire division to reimagining the office environment. Interior designer Kay Sargent, global director of HOK’s WorkPlace practice, reports, “COVID may have shined a spotlight on it, but the workplace has fundamentally changed over the last decade.” She adds, “It’s no longer a place to sit in one spot all day but a more human- centric environment in which to connect with colleagues.”

Sargent suggests the once-ubiquitous cubicle, which can inhibit productivity, creativity and morale, is disappearing in favor of more fluid seating arrangements. “Not only does the lack of assigned seating maximize real estate, but it also maximizes human efficiency and potential,” explains the veteran interior designer. She adds, “If you’re going to ask workers to return to the office, their leaders have to be there as well, fully accessible and integrated with their staff.” To ensure inviting environments, new workplace designs are laced with elements of hospitality, reports Sargent, who reports the lobbies of some corporate offices are nearly indistinguishable from those of hotels.

If employees are going to be genuinely excited about returning to the office, then the workplace should be as attractive as home. Outdoor spaces, varied culinary offerings, areas accommodating quiet and wellness, and “lifestyle studios” are among the amenities HOK’s recent projects are equipped with, advises Kay Sargent. Even hobbies that employees developed during the pandemic can be enjoyed in the workplace, with commercial kitchens accommodating cooking classes and newly created libraries hosting book clubs. At HOK’s own St. Louis offices, equipment in an architectural modeling studio is now utilized by employees pursuing various crafts adopted while confined to home.

 

CBRE is an international leader in commercial real estate, and its in-house team of architects and interior designers advise clients on workplace design trends, especially now that employers are requiring workers to return to the office. In the company’s latest U.S. Office Occupier Sentiment Survey, CBRE found that 67 percent of employers indicated they are now more concerned about workplace quality than before the pandemic, with a particular focus on amenities. With commuting top-of-mind, 59 percent of companies favored buildings near public transit, and sustainability issues were particularly important to large corporations with carbon reduction commitments. Sixty-six percent of respondents indicated they were moving away from individual seating assignments toward more flexible spaces that enhance collaboration.

 

“Workplace design has changed dramatically since the pandemic, and employees have been at the forefront of those changes,” says Karen McCallum, managing director for CBRE’s Design Collective. Insisting the quality of the workplace is a key element in recruiting and retaining top talent, she suggests the office needs to reflect a genuine magnetism. “It has to make you want to get up in the morning, get ready and endure the commute…in other words, working with colleagues in the office needs to be better than home.”

Like her peers, McCallum reports a major shift from assigned to unassigned seating, a concept reflected in CBRE’s “Workplace 360” model for its own offices. “Some level of privacy may be required, but farms of ‘Dilbert cubes’ are generally no longer necessary,” advises McCallum, while noting some private “focus pods” are essential. “It’s really about giving employees a choice about how they desire to work on any given day,” says the designer.

And while many employers have retained plush accommodations for high-ranking executives, McCallum reports, “Some progressive companies have moved toward a transparent, non-hierarchal solution in which executives sit in the same seats as subordinates.” McCallum notes that CBRE clients appreciate open floorplans, which consume less real estate and create more dynamic environments.

“Hospitality-inspired environments, more elevated spaces tailored for employees, create that ‘better than home’ experience,” says CBRE’s McCallum. She states that a wellness room — it can provide an opportunity for yoga, meditation or prayer — has become an almost indispensable feature and savvy employers recognize that once-exotic amenities like specialty juice bars, baristas and pop-up chefs have value. Other designers report that tech- free nap rooms are increasingly common, as evidence suggests short snoozes benefit health and morale, and that there is a legitimate nexus between fitness centers with massage therapy and productivity. Some companies make accommodations for employees who wish to bring their dogs to work.

 

Technology firms ushered in the amenity- rich workplace but even venerable, old-school companies like Norfolk Southern — with roots in the early 19th century, the railway is hardly a cutting-edge startup — showcase unconventional offices. HOK equipped the corporation’s Atlanta headquarters with a food hall offering eclectic cuisines, daycare center and game room. A focal point of the sleek aesthetics is a sculptural staircase that evokes the very essence of the brand: movement. HOK’s Kay Sargent reports, “Spaces should be a reflection of the culture, representing the brand and connecting people to the mission,” and notes that in addition to the stairway, the graphics at Norfolk Southern headquarters also convey a sense of motion.

 

With technology clients like PayPal, Dropbox and GitHub, Rapt Studio has developed a reputation for creative office spaces that reflect their clients’ corporate cultures. At the Southern California headquarters of Vans, the sneaker company famous for its iconic checkerboard slip-on, Rapt created a laid-back environment consistent with its ethos, complete with street art and an amenity package that includes a studio for recording music. Skateboarding, integral to the company’s heritage, is an accepted mode of transportation throughout headquarters.

Gensler’s Natalie Engels offers an aspirational characterization of the emerging workplace: “The future of work must be a destination rather than an obligation, and create opportunities for engagement, interaction and fun.”

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Beyond Fish and Chips

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Once lamented, even ridiculed, for its uninspired gastronomy, the culinary landscape in the British Isles has dramatically evolved.

The Brits have long been the butt of jokes about their inadequate cooking skills, despite their proximity to the renowned gastronomy of France, across the English Channel. The portrayal of the British being capable of turning out nothing more compelling than fish-and-chips or shepherd’s pie was never entirely fair. But with Michelin stars multiplying in London and popping up across the countryside, that stereotype is now history.

Susan Low, an American-born journalist now based in London, is a food writer and restaurant critic whose work has appeared in The Good Food Guide, The Independent, Time Out, and the BBC Food website. “Britain was the first country to industrialize, and the repercussions from that are still being felt,” says Low, who cites symptoms of intensive farming methods and ultra-processed foods. “Yet it must be remembered that Britain has always produced some very fine foods, from pasture-fed beef and lamb to great cheeses,” she says.

Low suggests two catalysts contributed to what we refer to as the British culinary renaissance: affordable international travel and the media. “In the 1990s, ordinary people began to travel abroad more as low-cost travel grew,” she says, suggesting regular visits to places like Tuscany and Provence exposed Brits to lifestyles centered around good eating. Regarding the media, Low says, “Restaurant criticism, wine writing, recipe columns, and food-centered travel journalism burgeoned, helping to fuel interest in eating out and cooking at home.” She adds, “Soon, competitive cooking programs took over the airwaves and ‘celebrity chefs’ became dinner party topics.”

Americans should recognize the renaissance occurring in British cooking, because it already happened here. Forty years ago, the U.S. was also viewed as a culinary desert, where steak-and-potatoes or overcooked fish constituted special occasion fare. It took a new generation of chefs — revolutionaries like Alice Waters, Jonathan Waxman and Jeremiah Tower — to shape what was first referred to as California Cuisine. That eventually morphed into New American cooking, showcasing local seasonal ingredients and an appreciation for classic French technique. Now world-class food is found not only in New York and San Francisco, but places like Cleveland and Portland as well.

 

In the 1980s, visitors may have adored London for its royal landmarks, sense of history and charming pubs, but serious diners quietly scoffed at the city’s culinary resources. Even Michel Roux, Jr., owner of the city’s venerable Le Gavroche (the first UK restaurant to earn a Michelin star), acknowledged that tourists would revel in the changing of the guards at Buckingham Palace, take in a show and then flee to more promising dining cities.

As London emerged as the world’s dominant financial capital in the 21st century — a status that has arguably been compromised by Brexit — the city began attracting more high-end chefs. As the prices of luxury real estate in the city surpassed Beverly Hills or Manhattan, so too did demand for sophisticated cuisine. It was this environment that created rock stars out of local chefs and propelled some to international celebrity status.

There are currently 74 Michelin-starred restaurants in London alone, which includes five kitchens attaining the ultimate honor of three stars. Local heavyweights Gordon Ramsay and Heston Blumenthal are household names far beyond the British Isles, while French icons Alain Ducasse and Hélène Darroze have jumped the Channel to earn a loyal following in a city once dismissed by haughty Parisians. Surprisingly, almost two- thirds of the 188 UK restaurants with at least one Michelin star are outside of London.

Anybody with a streaming service and a weakness for reality television has probably come across the BBC production of Great British Menu, which presents the creativity and technical proficiency of young chefs from throughout England, Scotland, Northern Ireland, and Wales. Culinary experts, even devoted Francophiles, now concede the gastronomic gap between Paris and New York has contracted, and the same can be said of the once-enormous disparity of culinary talent between Paris and London (despite their proximity). Furthermore, Dublin, Edinburgh and Manchester are experiencing their own dining renaissances, just as Philadelphia, Atlanta and Houston have.

The Lanesborough in London is a neoclassical luxury hotel sharing rarefied credentials with Le Bristol in Paris, Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc on the Riviera and other palatial properties of the Oetker Collection. There, acclaimed British chef Shay Cooper offers a modern interpretation of British cuisine at The Lanesborough Grill, the new restaurant occupying one of the most elegant, art-laden dining rooms in the city. Cooper’s seasonal menu honors artisanal producers in updated presentations of iconic British classics such as beef Wellington.

 

“Our style of food is rooted in tradition, with familiar and comforting themes at heart, all the dishes carefully considered to give them appeal yet presented in an elegant and contemporary way,” says Cooper. Cooking at one of the city’s most prestigious hotels, surrounded by royal palaces, Cooper is conscious of balancing progressive cooking with the expectations of clients who appreciate a luxurious experience steeped in tradition. Lauding the abundance of world-class ingredients from throughout Great Britain, Cooper reports, “The Lanesborough Grill showcases all of this, such as Wye Valley asparagus, Lindisfarne oysters, Welsh lamb from the Rhug Estate, and incredible cheeses from Cornwall, Devon and Northern Ireland which change on a seasonal basis.”

At London’s Apricity, chef/owner Chantelle Nicholson is committed to local sourcing and sustainability, using only produce at the height of its season from small- scale farmers, along with foraged ingredients. Nicholson’s menus celebrate British vegetables, regeneratively ranched meats and sustainably caught seafood from across the British Isles. The wine list, championing English vineyards and winemakers, represents producers dedicated to biodiversity and natural production.

While the London dining scene naturally receives the most attention, the British culinary renaissance extends deep into the countryside, and the recently released 2023 Michelin Guide for Great Britain & Ireland revealed 20 new one-star and three new two-star establishments. Gwendal Poullennec, international director of the Michelin Guides, commented on the bushel of new stars: “In every region of Great Britain and Ireland, you can now find hugely talented chefs calling out to gourmets with their exquisite and accomplished cuisine.”

 

Retaining their stars in 2023 are a pair of restaurants outside Liverpool — Michelin two-star Moor Hall and neighboring one-star The Barn — that showcase modern British cuisine. Chef Mark Birchall, who celebrates the bounty of Britain, states, “Our inspiration comes from our natural setting — our garden, the farms we’re surrounded by and the artisans who produce everything, from our tableware to rearing the cows for our milk.” The chef adds, “Earlier in my career I thought it was all about expensive produce from overseas. I’m sure Sicilian tomatoes are the best, but maybe not after traveling 1,300 miles!”

Just as the American food revolution was partially driven by cultural diversity — newly discovered ingredients from ethnic markets in various Asian and Latino communities has transformed the cuisine in major cities — so too has immigration influenced British cuisine. Curry houses now outnumber fish-and-chip shops in London and, thanks to the nation’s large Indian community, chicken tikka masala (an anglicized creation) is now often regarded as the British national dish.

 

“It’s impossible to overestimate the positive contribution made by a more diverse food culture in Britain,” says food writer Susan Low. “In cities such as London, Bristol and Birmingham, the adventurous can enjoy cuisines from countries around the globe, and the cross-pollination of ideas, along with a growing respect for diversity, is a main driver of the current food scene.” As an example, Low cites London-based JKS Restaurants, operated by three siblings with South Asian heritage. “Their restaurants, such as Hoppers, Bao and Gymkhana, have done so much to promote and popularize a more diverse approach,” she reports.

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Unique Homes Spring 2024 Issue

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As devoted narrators of the extraordinary, the Unique Homes Spring 2024 Issue goes beyond the confines of traditional real estate, captivating our worldwide readership with a look inside some of the most amazing properties on the market and unique insights into the realm of luxury living. 

In this edition of Unique Homes magazine, we present to our readers a distinguished roster of Elite Agents, showcasing their unparalleled expertise and influence in luxury real estate.

Exploring the timeless allure of gold in “All Things Gold,” we are honored to share Lauren Harwell Godfrey’s magnificent gold jewelry collection, and luxury lighting trends that prove this element never goes out of style.

As we contemplate the intersection of luxury and artificial intelligence, Camilla MclLaughlin ponders the potential impact of the technology on the real estate landscape and elite agents in “Luxury: Meet AI.”

Embark on a journey through the iconic city that never sleeps in “Urban Opulence in New York,” as we explore the most lavish residences and what’s new. 

Luxury undergoes a transformative redefinition this spring, and we welcome you to explore it in our latest issue.

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Renovated Tropical Contemporary Home

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This completely renovated tropical contemporary home in South Miami offers perfection with utmost functional details and high-end finishes. 

 

6781 is a spacious 4-bedroom, 4-bath home ideally placed on a quiet corner lot with architecturally re-designed landscaping. As you enter, you will find generous open spaces, a formal living and dining room, and a family room offering stunning views.

Ideal for Entertaining 

Impress your guests with a fabulous gourmet kitchen featuring European cabinetry, Calacatta quartz, and top-of-the-line Bosch/Café appliances. 

A covered terrace, newly redone pool, and a deck surrounded by a private backyard with a 15×15 Pergola make this home perfect for entertaining.

Miami Chic at its Best

The primary suite is spacious and offers a well-appointed resort-style bath and ample walk-in closet, among other amenities. 

Your dream home is just minutes away from major roadways, schools, and Downtown South Miami.

Visit the complete listing.

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Charming Spanish-Style Residence

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Prepare to be enamored by this charming Spanish-style residence, nestled in the serene enclave of Little Gables.

 

Positioned on a tranquil street and enveloped by lush tropical landscaping, this 2-story home sits graciously on a spacious 7,500 square foot lot.

Step inside this delightful residence boasting 4 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms, thoughtfully arranged across two levels. The main floor hosts 3 bedrooms and 3 baths, while a secluded retreat awaits on the second floor with 1 bedroom and 1 bath.

Impeccably Designed Interiors

This home boasts a realm of modern elegance seamlessly intertwined with functionality. The interior of this home has been meticulously crafted, presenting a harmonious blend of contemporary upgrades and practical amenities.

No Detail Overlooked

Extensive renovations in 2010, 2015, and 2022, have left no detail overlooked. Highlights of this property include an expanded living and dining area, a luxurious primary bedroom suite, updated kitchen and bathrooms. At the same time, it preserves the timeless allure of its 1940s origins with features such as a charming wood-burning fireplace, distinctive rounded window accents, and exquisite wood flooring.

A Private Backyard Oasis

Venture outside to discover your own private oasis — a lush, verdant backyard reminiscent of those found in the pages of Architectural Digest. 

Here, tranquility reigns supreme, offering the perfect sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Visit the complete listing.

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An Exclusive Look at The Mansion on St. Simons Island

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316 Yacht Club Lane
St Simons Island, Georgia

6 bed / 9 bath / 11,931 Sq. Ft. / 32,234 Sq. Ft., 0.74 acres lot size / Single Family

 

$7,850,000

 

If you’ve ever dreamed of coastal living with a hefty dose of grandeur, look no further than The Mansion on St. Simons Island. At 316 Yacht Club Lane, expect unparalleled luxury living and breathtaking views that will leave you in awe from the moment you arrive.

Nancy Usher, associate broker at Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Hodnett Cooper Real Estate, describes The Mansion as being utterly unique to the area. “The Mansion is quite grand, from the view as you see it coming onto the island from the causeway to entering the cul de sac where it sits on 3 lots of record,” she says. “Even with all of its grandness, The Mansion feels welcoming and inviting.”

Upon entering the property, you’re welcomed by a finely landscaped yard adorned with colorful plants and inviting rocking chairs on the front porch. It’s a property that commands attention while remaining approachable. Connor Burke, a licensed real estate salesperson at Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Hodnett Cooper Real Estate says, “It definitely has that wow factor with the lustrous white brick against black trim and details painted into the black brick driveway, but very welcoming and approachable.”

“The architecture and decor were designed to be timeless and will never be outdated,” explains Burke. From Turkish Travertine stone to hardwood floors, every element speaks of quality and craftsmanship. The coastal-inspired decor invites you to sit back, relax, and savor every moment.

Inside, the kitchen stands out as a masterpiece of design and functionality. “It’s very difficult to name one favorite room but the kitchen is spectacular,” adds Usher. With its large built-in island, ample seating, and luxury stainless steel appliances, it’s a chef’s dream. Add panoramic views of the water and bridge, and meal prep becomes a scenic delight.

Adjacent to the kitchen is the pool room, a space designed for entertainment and relaxation. Complete with a full bar, TV, and convenient full bath, it’s the perfect spot to unwind after a dip in the saltwater swimming pool or spillover spa hot tub.

Outside, the property continues to impress with its numerous porches, seating areas, and lush landscaping. “With the dock comes a boat house and also permit to extend or build additional docks with the 3 lots this property sits on. The photos show the historic Lynx ship at the dock, which spends half the year on St Simons Island and the other half in Nantucket. How exciting it was to have that incredible ship docked at this magnificent property!” says Usher. It’s a tranquil retreat, while the dock opens up endless possibilities for waterfront activities. 

The home was designed with large gatherings as well as luxury comforts in mind. “There are multiple living rooms, a game and music room with wet bar, a den, an exercise room. In fact, you would have a hard time choosing which room to use because the options are seemingly endless and all are equally appealing,” says Burke. In every aspect, The Mansion on St. Simons Island is a testament to luxury, elegance, and coastal living at its finest.

 

 

Let’s Connect

—————————-

 

Nancy Usher

ASSOCIATE BROKER
 
 
 
nancyusher@hcrega.com
Direct: (912) 638-5450
Office: (912) 638-5450
 
 

Let’s Connect

—————————-

 

Connor Burke

LICENSED REAL ESTATE SALESPERSON
 
 
connor@hcrega.com
Direct: (912) 409-8791
Office: (912) 638-5450
 
 
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Fashion Beyond the Runway

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To casual observers, fashion trends are shaped by iconic designers, glossy magazine covers and social media posts by celebrities. But in truth, a myriad of forces are at play.

 

The fashion industry has always been fiercely competitive, but in a complex cocktail of design, technology and politics, the length of skirts or widths of ties no longer define what is in style. Consumers, armed with vast new resources, are finding inspiration beyond the latest collections of the designer boutiques lining Fifth Avenue or Rodeo Drive. The fashion industry, constantly evolving, has been democratized and digitized.

“My clients are high-achieving women,” notes personal stylist Hanna Lee, who reports corporate CEOs, attorneys, physicians, and entrepreneurs, as well as occasional celebrities, seek out the personal styling and shopping services of her Chicago-based Hanna Lee Style. Despite being thousands of miles from Paris or Milan, Lee is well positioned to observe trends on the front lines of the fashion industry. “With people now returning to the office, they’re discovering their wardrobes need attention,” reports Lee of current demand for her services. She adds, “People became accustomed to Zoom meetings during the pandemic, so now they’re comfortable having me conduct style consultations that way.”

Among the major trends cited by Hanna Lee is the growing interest in conscientious apparel. Not only are sustainable materials like hemp, bamboo linen and organic cotton in demand, but consumers are seeking ethically produced clothing. Brands are expected to provide safe and humane working conditions, offer living wages and invest in housing or health care in their workers’ communities. To accommodate interest in sustainable products, Lee’s website promotes fashion labels — representing various price points — that appeal to clients with those sensibilities.

The global ethical fashion market, valued at $8.17 billion in 2023, is expected to grow to $11.12 billion by 2027, with many iconic brands among the prominent players. “Who says sustainability can’t be sexy?” asked designer Stella McCartney of her eco-friendly BioSequin jumpsuit featured on the April 2023 cover of Vogue, worn by model and environmental activist Cara Delevingne. Good On You, a website promoting ethical fashion, provides a handy mobile app for shoppers, which rates every imaginable brand on their efforts and provides favorably rated alternatives to underperforming labels.

Regarded as “deadstock” in the fashion industry, overstocks, ends of bales and offcuts are typically discarded, even burned. But UK-based Bee & Alpaca puts some of the industry’s estimated $120 billion of annual waste to good use, creating stylish, sustainable clothing. Founder and CEO Deniz Dincer states, “It seems trivial to label fabric as deadstock, waste or excess. Instead, Bee & Alpaca upcycles these into exclusive and limited-run clothing lines.”

Closely related to sustainability, secondhand clothing is another macro-trend in the fashion industry, no longer reserved for college students, struggling artists or single moms on a budget. “Initially, I was reluctant to ask clients if they were open to secondhand … would they feel it was beneath them?” recounts personal stylist Lee, who has been wearing timeless pieces from her grandmother for years. “But when I mention it, people love the idea, as it’s great in terms of both value and the environment,” reports the stylist, who is a fan of Poshmark, thredUP and Chicago-based North Shore Exchange, which donates 100 percent of profits to local charities.

Occupying the intersection of technology, social media and secondhand merchandise is Poshmark. The company’s online platform connects sellers of new or good-condition luxury merchandise — names like Hermès, Fendi and Prada are among the nearly 10,000 brands represented — to interested buyers. More than 100 million users prefer Poshmark to the traditional shopping experience, avoiding the steep prices and pretenses of luxury designer boutiques. “Consumers are looking for a marketplace where they can sell and shop, in addition to having social experiences — this is what sets us apart and draws people to Poshmark, explains Chelsey Nordyke, the company’s merchandising and curation manager. “Our customers are looking for value and as inflation continues to be top of mind for many, shopping secondhand allows them to find a wide variety of items at more affordable prices,” she says.

Identifying current trends, Nordyke reports, “We’re seeing bags take off on Poshmark, specifically ones that lean into the ‘quiet luxury’ trend,” noting that Louis Vuitton, Gucci and Chanel are labels that consistently perform well. “These classic bags are the epitome of quiet luxury,” says the e-commerce executive of an aesthetic Vogue called the year’s hottest trend, explaining the items feature neutral palettes while forgoing conspicuous logos. “Consumers are choosing minimalist luxury pieces that embody the status symbol, but without the blatant call for attention,” says Nordyke. Lee suggests the quiet luxury trend emerged several years ago, but that celebrity social media posts have made it suddenly au courant. “The Row is a quiet luxury brand with very timeless pieces and incredibly high-quality fabrication,” she states.

“The typical Poshmark buyer is sustainability- and value-focused,” reports Nordyke, explaining that Gen Z consumers, in particular, are normalizing thrifting as an accepted means of updating wardrobes. “We’re constantly looking for ways to bring sustainability to the forefront of users’ minds and highlight companies that focus on ethical production and fair trade,” says Nordyke. She reports that virtual, sustainability-themed Posh Parties showcase brands (e.g., Patagonia, Cuyana, Veja) that employ eco-friendly materials and responsible production practices.

 

Pantone — the New Jersey-based company is the world’s preeminent authority on color in all industries — works with fashion designers and fabric suppliers to ensure accuracy of colors. Every year the company designates its “Color of the Year,” and for 2023 that honor went to Viva Magenta 18-1750, a bold, Barbie esque shade described by Pantone as “brave and fearless, whose exuberance promotes a joyous and optimistic celebration.” Reflecting the company’s particularly emotive characterizations of color, Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute, states, “Invoking the forces of nature, Pantone 18-1750 Viva Magenta galvanizes our spirit, helping us to build our inner strength.” In Chicago, Lee reports, “I feel like people are wanting more colors and patterns than before.”

 

While consumers learned to shop exclusively online during the pandemic, Lee finds that the pendulum may be swinging back. “It’s still very difficult to accurately size online, and there’s nothing like the touch and feel of clothing,” she says. “People have also started to crave the in-person experience,” adds the stylist. Nevertheless, technology is a powerful force shaping the fashion industry and one tech-driven trend is the emergence of the metaverse as a very real place for brands to market their wares. While most shoppers are still clueless about the metaverse, the increasingly realistic digital environments offered by platforms like Roblox and Decentraland are relevant to younger Gen Z buyers. Prada, Burberry and Ralph Lauren are just a few of the hundreds of brands with a presence in these virtual worlds. Major labels of every price point are realizing that significant investments in the metaverse will pay dividends by capturing the attention of a new generation of consumers.

Chicago-based stylist Hanna Lee in a dress from online platform thredUP.

Artificial intelligence (AI) is another technology development that can highly personalize the shopping experience. At Sephora, a facial scan can instantly identify the best makeup color for a particular customer, while Rebecca Minkoff boutiques are exploring AI to enhance the touchscreen smart mirrors they pioneered almost a decade ago. RFID technology can record what items a particular customer tries on, and smart mirrors can suggest alternative colors and sizes.

 

Designers, marketers and logistics specialists are joining retailers in their embrace of AI in the fashion industry. In partnership with AI creative specialists Maison Meta, Manhattan’s Spring Studios — the SoHo facility annually hosts iconic designers like Calvin Klein and Diane von Furstenberg — recently presented the first-ever AI Fashion Week. Its catwalks were transformed into high-definition screens and avatars stood in for supermodels to showcase AI-generated collections from emerging designers.

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Healing with Sound

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“What intrigued me about sound healing is its non-invasive and gentle nature, complemented by its profound effects,” says Mags Zywica, the co-founder of Me Time Away, a premium well-being booking platform that makes booking retreats that suit individual needs a simple process. “Whether used in conjunction with other healing practices like meditation, mindfulness sessions, and gentle yoga practices, or as a standalone approach, sound healing offers versatility and adaptability to suit different individuals and situations,” explains Zywica.

These healing practices can be traced back throughout the years among various cultures from around the world. However, the profound effects of sound healing can now be seen and studied on a cellular level. Letizia Silvestri, the founder and chief healing officer at Altha, a team of experienced sound healers who host events and retreats centered around the concept of healing with sound and vibrations, explains: “to understand how sound can interact with the body and to create change, one must understand what sound is. Sound is vibration. When certain healing frequencies (e.g. 432 or 528 hertz) interact with the body, they raise the vibrations of our cells, bringing them into a restore and repair state.”

The ancient belief that sound could heal was often practiced throughout Greece, China, Australia, and elsewhere, but was difficult to prove. A connection between sound and healing was also made in America in the 1890s when music was believed to improve blood flow and mental clarity, and has continued to garner interest since. “Music therapy was also used during the 1940s to rehabilitate soldiers returning from World War II,” says Silvestri, who has tried nearly every natural remedy over the years from meditation, yoga, and breathwork to tapping and hypnosis.

A sound healing session can look different depending on the overall goal. Some sessions consist of large gatherings of people, or there are more personalized, one-on-one treatments. However, most sessions include a specific set of tools and frequencies. Depending on the healer, a session can feature a wide variety of instruments that include gongs, alchemy and crystal singing bowls, Tibetan bowls, ocean drums, rain sticks, shakers, hand drums, water, air, fire and earth chimes, flow chimes, and more. The overall process is simple. The client finds a resting position and is surrounded by sound instruments and then immersed in healing frequencies. These instruments are often incorporated into meditation and yoga classes as an additional comfort or way to relax, but there are also more intense therapies that are more focused.

Sound baths are fully immersive treatments that can have a profound effect on the client and many have described them as spiritual experiences that are often extremely emotional and uplifting. The effects often help clients sleep better, ease anxiety, and lift their moods. “It’s called a bath because the sound waves wash over you as you relax and enjoy the melodic journey,” says Silvestri. “The harmonics and frequencies effortlessly lull your mind into a deep meditative state, while the healing vibrations revitalize your body and help release tension.”

For Zywica, the very first experience with sound healing was enough to convince her of the positive, lasting effects. She describes the initial strike of the gong to be resonating and immediately feeling her body release stress and anxiety. “An hour later, I left the session feeling deeply relaxed and calm, and that night I slept soundly, experiencing a level of tranquility I hadn’t felt in months,” adds Zywica. A transformative experience such as this is quite common for those exploring sound healing and has ignited a passion for the practice around the world.

The wonders of sound will likely continue to be further explored for years to come. “As humans, we turn to music and sound at many different times — celebratory, emotional, and spiritual. Sound healing stood out to me as a powerful healing modality because music can take us on a journey to the depths of the soul,” says Gibson.

It’s no surprise that wellness retreats and spas are incorporating more music and sound practices into their itineraries as the benefits continue to grow and gain attention as an accessible and simple, yet profound method for healing the body and mind.

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