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.
ICEHOTEL, a transient structure rebuilt annually in Sweden from river ice, launches its 35th edition with designs by 26 artists from 13 countries, integrating art, architecture, and nature into eco-friendly excursions.
This edition presents 12 unique art suites and 20 ice rooms, alongside Arctic gastronomy accentuating regional flavors and a suite of wilderness experiences that span from natural phenomena to cultural heritage.
Image credit: ICEHOTEL | Asaf Kliger
Dec 18, 2024
Simose, a one of a kind art resort and museum in Hiroshima crafted by Pritzker Prize-winning architect Shigeru Ban, earned the 2024 Prix Versailles as the world’s most beautiful museum.
Eight movable art galleries float in a garden of architecture that connects the sea, sky, and greenery, while the Simose Art Garden Villa, offering stays in Forest Villas and Waterfront Villas, includes recreations of Shigeru Ban's iconic designs.
Image credit: Simose Art Museum | Simose Art Garden Villa
Dec 17, 2024
Assouline, a luxury publishing house, opened its flagship boutique with a restaurant and piano bar at Bujairi Terrace in Diriyah, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Blending Mediterranean cuisine with the maison's celebrated collections in intimate settings, the flagship, in tune with the desert landscape and color palettes of Saudi architecture, merges tradition and modernity for a cultural fusion.
Image credit: Assouline | Bujairi Terrace | Diriyah
Dec 15, 2024
Alaïa has opened a bookstore and café in its London flagship through collaborations with Claire de Rouen, a prominent figure in the literary scene, and Violet Cakes by Claire Ptak, widely recognized for crafting the wedding cake for Prince Harry and Meghan Markle.
The space, embracing a modernist design language that bridges transparency, lightness, and art, continues the tradition of intimate salons hosted by founder Azzedine Alaïa.
Image credit: ALAÏA | Violet Cakes by Claire Ptak
Dec 14, 2024
Nike has collaborated with British makeup artist Isamaya Ffrench, placing beauty and sport as non-opposing forces that jointly elevate confidence and performance, pushing the envelope by asserting cosmetics as a functional medium integral to boosting psychological readiness.
The partnership adapts principles of makeup to the palette of Air Max Dn, interplaying textures, contours, and depth to add multi-textural and tactile dimensions often seen in makeup.
Image credit: Nike | Isamaya Ffrench
Dec 12, 2024
Architects Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG), in collaboration with Nokken, unveiled 'Softshell', a two story modular tent designed for sustainable glamping experiences.
The adaptable structure, with a timber frame and weather resistant, recyclable canvas fabric, is designed to integrate into natural settings, and its lightweight, modular design ensures easy transport and assembly, making it suitable for remote locations and reducing environmental impact.
Image credit: Bjarke Ingels Group | Nokken
Dec 10, 2024
Dior opens a new concept space, 'Dior Gold House', in Bangkok's Ploenchit district, blending local artistry with Michelin gourmet experiences within a house inspired by the iconic 30 Montaigne, set amidst a lush garden.
The site's diverse art collaborations orchestrate a resonant dialogue between Dior's French heritage and Thailand's traditional craftsmanship, brought to life by regional artists, designers, and architects.
Image credit: Dior | Pierre Mouton
Dec 8, 2024
The historic Reading Room at the British Museum in London has fully reopened to the public in July after its indefinite closure in 2013, revealing its illustrious architectural splendor, designed by architect Sydney Smirke in 1857 inspired by the Pantheon in Rome.
As an intellectual hub frequented by historical figures such as Karl Marx, Virginia Woolf, Lenin, Mahatma Gandhi, and Mark Twain, the dome, a cornerstone of cultural and scholarly history, has once again opened its doors, allowing general visitors to rediscover its architectural grandeur in its authentic role.
Image credit: Donald Macbeth | Bobulous | Diliff | Phil Armitage | Nordisk familjebok
Dec 5, 2024
Ginori 1735, the iconic brand epitomizing Italian porcelain artistry, has partnered with St. Regis Florence to launch the first permanent Café Ginori, unveiling creative plating and playfulness in the unique dining landscape.
Housed in the 18th century Palazzo Magli, every element of the interior—from the Oriente Italiano wallpaper to the embroidered fabrics on cushions—reflects the spirit and legacy that define Ginori 1735, redefining the rules of mise en place both visually and gastronomically.
Image credit: Michèle Lamy | House By | Hugo Souchet
Dec 1, 2024
Michèle Lamy, an emblematic figure in culture and fashion, partnered with House By, to create 'Object 001', an artistic interpretation of a candle that embraces unity around flame and her philosophy that art can be ephemeral yet hold deep meaning.
Drawing inspiration from Lamy's beloved piece of petrified wood, Object 001 is crafted from organic, unscented, long burning wax atop a hand painted brass stand with a bronze patina, and it burns for 400 hrs.
Limited to 700 pieces, each with a Certificate of Authenticity.
Image credit: Michèle Lamy | House By | Hugo Souchet
Nov 29, 2024
Gucci Giardino, the fashion house's second bar worldwide, has opened in Umeda, Osaka, fusing Italian and Japanese cultural elements in contemporary sensibility.
From its signature cocktails with a nuanced act of storytelling and exclusive aged sake to Michelin starred dining and Laboratory culinary experiences, Gucci Giardino offers an intersection of mixology, art, cuisine, and fashion.
The menu is created in collaboration with Gucci Osteria da Massimo Bottura Tokyo.
Image credit: Gucci | Sebastian Viguera
Nov 28, 2024
Transparent, the circular audio brand from Stockholm with striking designs, has released a speaker that embeds the bold, geometric forms of 1950s brutalist architecture, designed to stand as a 'monument of sound and design', harnessing a form that contributes to sound performance.
The towering structure encapsulates a vast acoustic volume, the geometric shape disperses sound waves uniformly, the dense material delivers optimal acoustic properties, and the elevated vantage points of tweeters at a 90° angle enrich broader dissemination of an immersive soundscape.
Image credit: Transparent
Nov 27, 2024
Architect Kengo Kuma and Swedish furniture brand Gärsnäs collaborated to create the HidaHida chair, blending Eastern architecture with Scandinavian design.
The chair, with its frame made of steam-bent beech or oak wood and upholstery in fabric or leather with pronounced seams that lend it a hand-sewn feel, exudes haute couture in its structural design.
Image credit: KKAA | Gärsnäs | The Conran Shop Daikanyama | COAD & Materials. PG gallery
Nov 26, 2024
ŌURA, the Finnish smart ring pioneer, is partnering with Dexcom, a leader in glucose sensing, to combine glucose data from Dexcom devices with health metrics collected by the Oura Ring, unlocking comprehensive insights into users' metabolic health, such as how diet, sleep, and activity affect glucose levels.
The partnership signifies a move toward healthcare consumerization, equipping individuals with not only diabetes management but also preventive care.
Image credit: ŌURA | Dexcom
Nov 24, 2024
Bottega Veneta has partnered with the lighting design brand Flos to recreate Gino Sarfatti's Model 600 lamp from 1966, a design that influenced the spirit of experimentation in the 1960s.
The lamp retains its original reflector shield, which swivels to adjust the light's direction and spread, and its flexible base that allows tilting or tumbling without falling, while incorporating Bottega Veneta's signature Intrecciato and Intreccio Foulard leather weaving techniques for the base.
Image credit: Bottega Veneta | Flos | Gino Sarfatti
Nov 23, 2024
Continuing our discussion with Paco Morales, SELENPARC delves deeper into the synthesis of his creations and the pursuit of a culinary dialogue across cultures.
Image credit: Paco Morales | Noor Restaurant
Nov 22, 2024
Delving into culinary's crossroads, SELENPARC is honored to explore the visionary work of Paco Morales, the chef behind Michelin three star restaurant Noor, located in Córdoba, Spain.
Paco Morales, through culinary archaeology, resurrects the essence of past eras by unearthing ingredients only available at each era, reborn in modern lens.
Image credit: Paco Morales | Noor Restaurant
Nov 21, 2024
Audemars Piguet and KAWS unveiled a collaboration that combines horological precision with contemporary art, culminating in a limited edition Royal Oak Concept Tourbillon 'Companion' watch and a sculpture positioned atop the Musée Atelier Audemars Piguet in Switzerland.
The watch, with a new hand-wound movement designed specifically for this model, was developed over two years to merge art with the rigorous design demands, from horological precision to the strictest standards of materials.
Image credit: Audemars Piguet | KAWS
Nov 21, 2024
Jaime Hayon returns to the origins of his creative process with his solo exhibition 'Bestial' at Art Basel Miami, starting December 1, 2024, hosted at the Mindy Solomon Gallery.
The exhibition, which marks a quarter century of Hayon's journey, explores the intersection of nature and humanity, and the intrinsic connection between animalistic instincts and human emotions, continuing his odyssey of fragility, uncertainty, and self-discovery through hyperbolic creatures.
Image credit: Jaime Hayon | HAYONSTUDIO
Nov 20, 2024
Thomas Heatherwick unveils a limited edition hand-blown glassware collection that reflects the architectural ingenuity and biophilic vision behind his design of the Bombay Sapphire distillery at Laverstoke Mill, constructed a decade ago.
The collection presents gin and tonic glasses and decanters hand-blown by UK artisans, characterized by a pleated hourglass silhouette with a striking blue base.
Image credit: Heatherwick Studio | Bombay Sapphire
Nov 20, 2024
Maison Margiela has inaugurated its premiere flagship store in Seoul's Hannam district, revitalizing a 1970s residential structure with architectural elements that embrace the brand's unconventional 'appropriate use of the inappropriate' philosophy and décortiqué technique.
The space includes a garden and a café in partnership with Bonanza Coffee, and hosts an art project, 'Hacking: 5AC Bag', showcasing reinterpretations of its iconic 5AC bag by contemporary artists from Korea and Japan.
Image credit: Maison Margiela | Bonanza Coffee
Nov 19, 2024
Louis Vuitton has opened a five story experiential space in NYC that serves as a flagship during its Fifth Avenue renovation, blending its legacy with modern artistry through spatial designs by Shohei Shigematsu of the architecture firm OMA, as well as the US debut of Le Café Louis Vuitton, a library concept housing nearly 650 books, and Le Chocolat Maxime Frédéric.
Image credit: Louis Vuitton
Nov 17, 2024
Thom Browne has partnered with The Shilla Hotel in Seoul to launch the 'Thom Browne Experience', a first of its kind concept room that introduces Browne's new home collection, available throughout December 2024.
The room, exhibiting high standard craftsmanship and design from collaborations with esteemed brands—Baccarat, Christofle, Frette, and Haviland—is complemented by an exclusive package including a bottle of Thom Browne X Barons de Rothschild Champagne, executive lounge access, and more.
In conjunction with the experience, the hotel opens an ephemeral store for the Thom Browne Home collection.
Image credit: Thom Browne | The Shilla Seoul
Nov 16, 2024
Genki-ro, created by artist Takashi Kuribayashi, is an art installation set in a historic underground quarry that blends natural wellness with art, serving as an herbal steam sauna designed to stimulate all five senses.
The transporting experience, crafted to invigorate both spirit and body, is meant to evolve over time through visitor interaction, becoming a living piece of art.
Image credit: Genkiro No.06
Nov 13, 2024
Alessi, the renowned Italian design house, has launched its first café, Alessi Espresso, at Dosan Park in Seoul, blending coffee culture with its iconic design concept.
The space is designed by Michele de Lucchi, a luminary in Italian architecture and design, with coffee developed in collaboration with Jang Moonkyu, a distinguished finalist in the World Coffee Roasting Championship.
Image credit: Alessi
Nov 12, 2024
The Sun Tower, a multicultural venue designed by OPEN Architecture on the coast of the Yellow Sea in Yantai, serves as a giant sundial, with its alignment and openings precisely calibrated to follow the path of the sun.
The concave design amplifies the sounds absorbed from the ocean, funnels natural light, and optimizes airflow and tunnel cooling, transforming invisible energies into tangible experiences that connect urban life with nature's timeless rhythms.
It houses a library, an observatory, an outdoor theater, exhibition spaces, a café, and a bar, among others.
Image credit: OPEN Architecture | Jonathan Leijonhufvud
Nov 11, 2024
The Macallan Estate in Scotland, an architectural marvel that sculpts into the land as a verdant swell, has unveiled TimeSpirit, a new dining experience created in partnership with the 3 Michelin starred 'El Celler de Can Roca' and designed by David Thulstrup, the renowned architect behind Copenhagen's Noma.
Image credit: The Macallan
Nov 10, 2024
Lake Como’s air is contained in cans, enclosing 400ml of pure air purportedly collected from the lake.
The concept, aimed at providing a tangible memory to carry back home a piece of Lake Como's serene and elegant atmosphere, is intended as a souvenir that repurposes as pen holders, plant pots, or stationery containers once the air is dispensed.
Image credit: Lake Como Air
Nov 7, 2024
Designer and architect Philippe Starck has crafted LA Almazara in Ronda, Spain, a radical and transformative experiential space dedicated to olive oil and serving as a cultural center that encapsulates art, tradition, and gastronomy.
Image credit: LA Almazara | Philippe Starck
Nov 6, 2024
Ryosokuin, a historic temple in Kyoto known for its role in Zen and wellness practices, cultivates spiritual and cultural dimensions through Zen meditation, tea ceremonies, and yoga, as well as serving as a vital platform for contemporary art exhibitions.
The temple, with gardens and tea houses noted for their architectural and natural beauty, currently exhibits '黙: Speaking in Silence', exploring shared themes of nature and spirituality between artists Bosco Sodi and Izumi Kato.
Image credit: Ryosokuin
Nov 5, 2024
Arturel, a Danish design company dedicated to reducing unwanted noise and echoes to create healthy sound atmospheres conducive to relaxation, concentration, and mental wellbeing, specializes in crafting sound absorbing panels that effectively lower reverberation and improve room acoustics.
Through collaborations with Kvadrat, designers, and artists, Arturel integrates sustainable materials, cultural heritage, and artistic design to craft eco-friendly acoustic panels that merge art, heritage, and functionality.
Image credit: Arturel
Nov 4, 2024
Rick Owens has partnered with Moncler to create an off-grid mountain shelter inspired by architects Charlotte Perriand and Jean Prouvé, as well as a clothing line, merging his gothic, avant-garde design with Moncler's utilitarian vision.
The 'refuge', crafted with support from Hugh Broughton Architects for structural design that ensures resilience and efficiency in extreme environments, harnesses advanced technology to meet modern needs for mobility and ecological responsibility.
Image credit: Moncler | Rick Owens
Nov 2, 2024
Stone Island unveils "Stone Island Sound", a music initiative formalizing its longstanding connection to diverse music movements and community ties.
Embracing the mantra of 'sound as a form of research', which reflects the brand's experimental approach, the project is structured into three categories:
_STONE ISLAND SOUND_FACTORY
_STONE ISLAND SOUND_CURATED BY
_STONE ISLAND SOUND_LIVE
Available on Apple Music and Spotify.
Image credit: Stone Island
Nov 1, 2024
Martin Margiela, the elusive icon who stepped away from fashion into art, unveiled his first public sculpture, Blinds, in Antwerp—a surrealist overlay of art and revitalizing urban space.
The sculpture, dialoguing with the curiosity of passers-by, is a thought provoking piece that illuminates the concepts of visibility, privacy, and perception, conjuring the hidden aspects behind the visible world and the concepts of seeing and being seen.
Image credit: Middelheim Museum | Tom Cornille | Maison Margiela
Oct 29, 2024
Marchesi 1824, the historic Milanese patisserie owned by the Prada Group, partnered with Assouline to publish 'Pasticceria Marchesi: Savoring the Spirit of Milan'.
The book captures how Marchesi 1824 merges tradition with evolving recipes, chronicling the storied journey of a passionate Italian taste; from the emblematic panettone to the rituals that elevate a caffeine break to an art form.
Available from both Marchesi and Assouline channels, as a standalone order, and as a set paired with Classic Panettone through Marchesi online.
Image credit: Prada Group | Marchesi 1824 | Assouline
Oct 28, 2024
Jean-Georges Vongerichten, a visionary chef of our times, steps beyond culinary, into creating a residential retreat where 'Taste is Everything'.
Partnering with Terra and Lion Development Group for completion in 2027, Jean-Georges' approach to living spaces influences everything from kitchen designs to culinary experiences that bridge culture and wellness, with the unique concepts brought to life by the acclaimed architects Arquitectonica and design studio Yabu Pushelberg.
Image credit: Jean-Georges Miami Tropic Residences | Jean-Georges
Oct 26, 2024
MM6 Maison Margiela has collaborated with Timex to reimagine the retro T80 timepiece, introducing it in the forms of a wristwatch and a ring watch, a novel concept that miniaturizes T80 into a wearable shape that challenges conventional notions of versatility and how a watch is structurally perceived.
Image credit: Maison Margiela | Timex
Oct 25, 2024
Naoshima, the revered island dedicated to art and architecture, welcomes a new space of artistic dialogues in 2025, designed by architect Tadao Ando, where his harnessing of natural light is captured in a structural flow, and natural elements are integrated to harmonize with the island's landscape.
The museum, directed by Miki Akiko, embraces a shift toward more dynamic perspectives, engaging with contemporary Asian art, with the inaugural exhibition showcasing 11 artists, including Takashi Murakami and Cai Guo-Qiang.
Image credit: Benesse Art Site Naoshima | Hamada Hideaki | Yoshihiro Asada | Mitsuo Matsuoka
Oct 24, 2024
Hyatt and Peloton have designed an experience that incentivize wellness by allowing you to earn Hyatt points for workouts completed on Peloton equipment at over 700 Hyatt hotels globally.
This wellness initiative, the first to merge a hospitality loyalty program with Peloton workouts, broadens practical motivation for fitness and mutual benefits for all parties involved.
Image credit: Hyatt | Peloton
Oct 22, 2024
Designer Giestas introduces "Baking Vegan Slippers", a DIY project that lets individuals craft personalized, biodegradable slippers at home using materials like cork, agar, and algae, which are then baked in an oven.
The freedom to stylize with a personal and creative touch encourages experimentation, signaling broader practical applications in the fashion industry.
Image credit: Giestas
Oct 21, 2024
Nujiang Grand Canyon Bookstore, designed by Trace Architecture Office (TAO) atop the Gaoligong Mountains overlooking the Nujiang River in China, is an architectural ode to the harmony between civilization and the natural world, symbolizing a spiritual bridge that connects the region's ethnic heritage with its spatial journey.
The architect's vision of a forward stretching volume forms a suspended platform enveloped by canyon views, giving readers the sensation of walking in the clouds. The space includes a café, a bookstore, and a theater.
Image credit: Trace Architecture Office | Hua Li | AOGVISION
Oct 17, 2024
Atelier Ace, in collaboration with French architecture firm Ciguë, has inaugurated 'Ace Hotel & Swim Club Athens', its first location in Greece and second under the Swim Club brand.
The hotel, retaining the Brutalist architecture of the former Fenix Hotel and merging Greek modernism with the vibe of a 1970s coastal resort, places art as the central element, anchored by an orchestral art program exhibiting works by 18 local artists across diverse mediums, curated in public areas and rooms.
Image credit: Ace Hotel & Swim Club Athens | DEPASQUALE+MAFFINI | Alex Antoniadis
Oct 16, 2024
Jaeger-LeCoultre has partnered with French scent artist Nicolas Bonneville to create three exclusive fragrances, dialoguing inherent parallels between watchmaking and perfumery.
Merged through precision, avant-garde synthesis, and rarity, the fragrances instill short formulas with fewer, noble ingredients for clearer olfactory profiles, refined by modern extraction and high concentrations for potent scents.
Image credit: Jaeger-LeCoultre
Oct 12, 2024
Finland's Kyrö Distillery has launched the world's first whisky born from sauna, and an ephemeral 'Sauna Bar' designed by the acclaimed Studio Puisto architects, merging whisky culture and sauna experiences.
The unique aging process in a sauna, powered by excess heat from distillation, expedites flavor maturation and 'sweats out' disharmony, giving a distinctive twist to traditional cask aging and enriching the whisky's complexity and flavor profile.
Image credit: Kyrö Distillery Company
Oct 11, 2024
Maison Ruinart, the oldest established Champagne house, collaborated with architect Sou Fujimoto, designer Gwenaël Nicolas, and landscape artist Christophe Gautrand to revitalize and open to the public its iconic address at 4 RUE DES CRAYÈRES.
The space unveils a multi-experiential pavilion amidst biodiversity-rich gardens hosting contemporary artworks by renowned artists and showcases a metamorphosis exhibit of artisan craftsmanship that transforms raw materials into architectural and design elements through a sensory scenographic experience.
Image credit: Ruinart
Oct 8, 2024
Louis Vuitton, in partnership with Michelin starred chef Cyril Lignac and architect Marc Fornes, opened Le Café and the adjoining new store at London Heathrow Airport's Terminal 2.
Marc Fornes' organic architectural identity renders a unique spatial structure, integrated with gastronomic offerings designed for the senses and the spirit of travel.
Image credit: Louis Vuitton | Cyril Lignac | Heathrow Airport
Oct 7, 2024
KAI Yufuin, a modern hot spring ryokan designed by architect Kengo Kuma, is an organic extension of Yufuin's surrounding landscape, a subtle vanish into the natural topography.
The resort, set across cascading rice terraces resembling pebbles rippling a pond, elevates farm-like material into an art experience, with atmospheric baths magnifying the serene onsen escape.
Image credit: KAI Yufuin
Oct 4, 2024
Perrotin Gallery is opening a new space in early 2025 within London's Claridge's Hotel, reputed as the 'annex to Buckingham Palace', marking a full circle in Emmanuel Perrotin's career by reconnecting his deep ties to the UK art scene.
The new gallery will stand adjacent to the hotel's Claridge's ArtSpace Café, designed by renowned architect John Pawson.
Image credit: Perrotin Gallery | Claridge's
Oct 2, 2024
Vitra has partnered with Zurich based natural skincare brand Soeder to create its first self-care product, encapsulating the unique botanical scents and atmosphere of 'Oudolf Garten' at the Vitra Campus, designed by renowned landscape artist Piet Oudolf.
Integral to the VitraHaus experience, the 'Ever Green' liquid soap embodies connections between architecture, design, and nature, designed to transform any space into the sophisticated tranquility of the garden.
Image credit: Vitra | Soeder | Vitra Design Museum | Clemens Poloczek | Tom Licht | Dejan Jovanovic
Sep 28, 2024
L'Abysse Monte Carlo, led by Michelin-starred chef Yannick Alléno and sushi master Yasunari Okazaki, has opened in Monaco’s Hôtel Hermitage, offering an omakase experience that combines French and Japanese culinary artistry.
The space, enveloped in art and craftsmanship at its core, accentuates tactile exploration and movement with artworks and designs by notable creatives, where natural forms and Japanese architectural influences marry form with substance.
Image credit: L'Abysse Monte Carlo | Clémence Sahuc
Sep 25, 2024
teamLab is turning nature into art by transforming the storied rice terraces of Izura, Japan, into a digital landscape, paired with a natural hot spring and glamping experience.
The exhibit, opening on September 30, 2024, blends wellness, art, and nature, probing the co-existence of nature's long continuity and human activity.
Image credit: teamLab | Izura Hot Spring
Sep 24, 2024
Aesop enters into design objects, unveiling a table light with the glow of a candle in partnership with a multidisciplinary design house, Bocci, recreating Aesop's amber hue in handcrafted form.
Reborn from Bocci's first product, a pendant light designed by founder Omer Arbel in 2005, the 14p is rechargeable, wireless, and encased by two hemispheres of molten glass crafted with imprecise edges and air bubbles that give the glass lights a kaleidoscopic effect, resembling flickering candles from afar.
Image credit: Aesop | Bocci
Sep 21, 2024
The Venice Simplon-Orient Express, a Belmond Train, unveils L'Observatoire, a sleeper carriage designed by artist JR, the visionary 'photograffeur' known for his monumental public artwork.
The suite, inspired by astronomical observatories and Renaissance Europe's cabinets of curiosity, flows through several micro-environments filled with art, bespoke craftsmanship, and hidden surprises at every turn, evoking wonder and mystery curated through JR's vision.
Image credit: Belmond | JR
Sep 20, 2024
Alain Ducasse has collaborated with crystal brand Baccarat to open a new restaurant and bar, 'Ducasse Baccarat', at the historic Baccarat Mansion in Paris, bringing together haute cuisine and crystal artistry in a setting where art and craftsmanship intersect in thematic coherence, creating a grand yet inviting art gallery atmosphere.
Image credit: Ducasse Baccarat | Alain Ducasse | Baccarat | Prototype Studio | Anna Leonte Loron
Sep 19, 2024
HUMAN MADE, led by NIGO in partnership with Blue Bottle Coffee, has launched an offline store with a café in Seoul's cultural district, Seongsu-dong, presenting unique coffee blends and exclusive items that draw from HUMAN MADE’s "The Future Is In The Past" motif, and a collaborative showcase with artists KAWS and VERDY.
Image credit: HUMAN MADE | Blue Bottle Coffee
Sep 18, 2024
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
Nestled in the heart of Ubud, Bali, the Yoga Barn stands beyond the ordinary. With a rich history and unwavering dedication, it has remained at the pinnacle of yoga retreats. Beyond yoga led by accomplished instructors, it is a cultural hub, drawing spiritual seekers, artists, and those yearning for a profound connection.
The spa, a serene sanctuary inspired by ancient Vedic practices, offers transformative therapies, while the Garden Kafe and Juice Bar have earned their own reputation as go-to destinations, and accommodations offer a serene stay.
Image credit: The Yoga Barn
Jun 6, 2023
NOIR Dining in the Dark & NOIR Spa in Ho Chi Minh City offers a unique mind altering sensory experience. By removing the dominant sense, the sight, elevates other four senses and realigns your sensory perceptions. The experience is met with top-tier gastronomy and a cohesive spa experience in an Indochine garden hideaway.
Image credit: NOIR
May 30, 2023
3110NZ by LDH Kitchen is a transformative space in Tokyo, born from a collaboration between NANZUKA art gallery, Michelin starred Sushi Saito, and renowned architect Daniel Arsham. It is an art gallery by day and turns into 'Saito Hideout', a revered Michelin sushi destination by night.
Image credit: 3110NZ | NANZUKA | SNARKITECTURE
May 28, 2023
Piknic, a retro building transformed into a vibrant space of art, culinary, nostalgia, and inspiration, rests at the heart of Seoul. Its design is inspired by Marcel Broodthaers and Dries Van Noten, featuring a restored legendary speaker, the #we16a, a Michelin restaurant practicing farm-to-table, and the entire building adapting to each art and design exhibition throughout the year.
Image credit: Piknic
May 26, 2023
Genesis House New York, a cultural oasis in the heart of the Meatpacking District, offers Michelin cuisine in partnership with Onjium, a curated book library by Assouline & Arumjigi, a serene tea pavilion guiding you to experience 1,300 years of Korean tradition, immersive & artistic experiences of Genesis enabled by state-of-the-art technology, and more.
Not your typical showroom. No need to be a Genesis enthusiast to discover this hidden spot.
Image credit: Genesis House NY
May 19, 2023
Naoshima, a small island in Japan, is an unparalleled gem that seamlessly integrates art into its very essence. Ando Tadao has indelibly shaped the landscape of the island, which is adorned with works by Yayoi Kusama, Claude Monet, James Turrell, and more. The island offers an Ando Tadao-designed hotel, a blissful bathhouse, and innovative gastronomy.
Image credit: Benesse Art Site Naoshima
May 17, 2023
Koganeyu, a public bath or 'sento' in Tokyo founded in 1932, combines baths, pools, saunas, cafes, lounges, craft beer bars, and a DJ booth. The interior is designed by Jo Nagasaka, the architect of Blue Bottle Coffee shops worldwide. Koganeyu aims to redefine the public bath experience with a cultural twist, going beyond conventions.
Image credit: Koganeyu
May 12, 2023
LVMH's French cosmetics and goods brand, Officine Universelle Buly, has opened a new boutique that duals as a café in Kobe, Japan, featuring both sweets and fragrances. The architectural design of the space honors culture of Japan and the world of Officine Universelle Buly.
Image credit: LVMH | Officine Universelle Buly 1803
Apr 23, 2023
The ROMEO Collection is opening its second luxury hotel, ROMEO Roma, in Rome's city center in October 2023. The hotel is one of the last projects designed by Zaha Hadid and will offer a restaurant overseen by Alain Ducasse.
Image credit: The Romeo Collection | ducasse-paris.com | zaha-hadid.com
Apr 20, 2023
In partnership with AC Milan, the SIRO hotel in Dubai, set to open later this year, offers an immersive fitness & recovery experience with exclusive access to techniques used by the world's top athletes.
Image credit: Siro
Apr 19, 2023
Outdoor lifestyle brand, Snow Peak, has built a unique nature surrounding retreat and onsen spa in Niigata, Japan. Designed by the world renowned architect, Kengo Kuma, the estate includes camp sites, villas, restaurants, mobile homes and an onsen spa. April 2023 marks their 1st anniversary.
Image credit: Snow Peak
Apr 18, 2023
Casa Clarita is a luxury accommodation in Valencia fully designed by Jaime Hayon. History meets design creativity in this 10 apartments and 12 rooms guest house that holds Hayon's signature design.
Image credit: Casa Clarita
Apr 16, 2023
Christian Louboutin opened his first boutique hotel, Vermelho, in Portugals' beach town of Melides, on April 1st, 2023. Vermelho offers peaceful yet vibrant aesthetic, showcasing Louboutin's personally collected furniture, antiques, art and ceramics.
Image credit: Vermelho Melides
Apr 8, 2023
The COMO Group is opening a new hotel, COMO Le Montrachet, in the village of Puligny-Montrachet, Burgundy, on April 15, 2023. The hotel has elevated heritage buildings from 1842 and is surrounded by 5 Grand Cru vineyards.
Its sommelier takes guests on private wine tastings and visits to nearby wineries. This is the first COMO hotel to be located in France.
Image credit: COMO
Apr 5, 2023