Quintessentially Publishing

New Carolina Herrera Perfume is the Perfect Summer Scent

2011-06-27T09:27:00.000-07:00

With a feminine and aromatic essence, Carolina Herrera is launching a new limited edition summer fragrance, 'CH Marine'. Elegantly packaged like its siblings, CH, CH Red and Gold, and CH Garden Party fragrances, this new installment to the realm of CH perfumes is fashioned to send you on a journey to the sea coast with the air of sea breeze spritzing from the bottle. With an emphasis of fresh aquatic notes of grapefruit, bergamot from Florida, heart notes of Bulgarian rose, jasmine petals, and aquatic notes, CH Marine is contrived as a fresher, warmer scent. The latest aroma is an energetic spin on the modern and long lasting fragrance that perfume buffs are coming to love, making it the perfect summer scent.

Wanderlust Hotel in Singapore is the Experimental, Creative Design Product of Boutique Expert, Loh Lik Peng, and Four Award Winning Agencies

2011-06-22T09:13:00.000-07:00

If cutting edge design is at the top of your list when choosing a destination vacation, Singapore’s Wanderlust Hotel might be the place for you.

Boutique hotel king, Loh Lik Peng, has restructured the interior of an old heritage-listed school in Little India, leaving the innovative interior design to an number of award winning agencies that were granted full creative freedom.

With 29 rooms throughout the four levels, with each level being designed in a different fashion, contingent on the assigned designer’s idea.

In the lobby, ‘Industrial Glam,’ designed by Asylum, incorporates juxtaposing surrounding settings with contemporary design. Level two, ‘Eccentricity’, designed by :phunk Studio appeals to all things colour from the walls, neon lights, to the rainbow corridor, and out to the deck with the mosaic tiled jacuzzi. The third level, ‘It’s Just Black and White’ by DP Architects, takes you through black corridors into contrasting white rooms where you can discover a world of origami and pop art works. The fourth and final level, ‘Creature Comforts’ by fFurious, is a fantasy filled floor with each room hosting friendly creatures and differing themes.

There are three principle types of rooms: ‘Pantone’, which as the name suggests, are designed in specific colour, creating a rainbow of rooms; ‘Mono’ (and Mono Deluxe) rooms are inspired by paper and contain origami and pop art, with ‘Mono Deluxe’ featuring a glass bathtub; and ‘Whimsical’, which are loft style rooms differing in themes from ‘Treehouse’ to ‘Space’ and ‘Typewriter.’ Of the 29 rooms in this authentic cultural haven of left-field designs, you won’t find two rooms that are alike. Refusing to play by the rules of design, Peng has created an experimental get away that can appeal to the masses with its variety of room styles.

Mono Room

Pantone

Whimsical

http://wanderlusthotel.com/

Urban Interiorites Restaurant In Harajuku, Tokyo Pushes Designer Boundaries

2011-06-14T09:24:00.000-07:00

Urban Interiorites Restaurant, located in the trendy Harajuku neighborhood of Tokyo, can be described in a single word: affluence. This newly constructed restaurant, sake bar, and lounge, combines the eclectic culture of Harajuku and the high end fashion of the Omontesando strip to create a vibrant, psychedelic feel. Pushing designer boundaries, the extravagant Urban Interiorites is eye-catching for any passerby with its textured exterior being made up of diamonds and amoeba shapes that liken cells and budding flowers. The modern architecture has an organic appeal that gives the building a divine presence. Upon entering, one is bewitched by the spacious and extravagant layout. A floral aesthetic is threaded throughout the interior design from the restaurant to the pillow-padded lounges. The themed colours of various shades of gold, pink and purple add to the enticing effects. Urban Interiorites is the product of a student project at the University of Pennsylvania School of Design in which professor Ali Rahim, along with his partners Tiffany Dahien and Virginia Melnyk, realized its potential for interior excellence and innovative appearance. A simple glance at the exterior and a walk through of this avant-garde restaurant captures an onlooker’s imagination and allows the viewer to immerse themselves into the impressive mind-captivating environment where the structures and shapes appear both cutting edge and familiar.

Preorder Quintessentially Living volume ii!

2011-06-10T07:07:00.000-07:00

We are proud to announce that we have now received our brand new edition of Quintessentially Living Volume ii, featuring our selection of 2011's top designers! Preorder your copy between now and Friday 17th of June and receive a 20% discount off all other books. Enquire at reserve@quintessentially.com

W Koh Samui

2011-06-09T02:44:00.000-07:00

The exclusive W Koh Samui is currently offering some fantastic rates for the summer season. A modern paradise of vibrant flora, pure white sand and warm sea breezes, W Koh Samui benefits from panoramic views of the Gulf of Thailand, capturing sunrise and sunset from its extraordinary beachfront position.

Life on Samui, as you've never experienced before. Gastronomize at Namu on the island's most stunning setting, or savour at The Kitchen Table. In true W style, SWEAT® it out in the state of the art gym, get WET® in the pool, then unwind at W Lounge or laze AWAY® at the spa. It’s pleasure at your leisure.

Between now and the 15th of July, stay 4 nights and pay for 3, and receive a complimentary Thai set dinner at The Kitchen Table for two. Indulge in a 60 minute Well-Travelled Aromatherapy massage, exclusive to Quintessentially members. Rates from £430 per room per night, please contact reserve@quintessentially.com for bookings.

Design position available at Quintessentially

2011-06-08T09:15:00.000-07:00

Quintessentially Design is looking for an experienced designer to join our growing team in central London. Quintessentially Design is the internal agency of Quintessentially, the world’s leading luxury lifestyle group. We are responsible for creating and maintaining the global brand as well as working with a variety of external clients. This particular role is for a designer to manage the workload for our publishing arm of the organisation so an interest in this type of design work is desirable.

Responsible wll include both print and web design. Additionally, duties will include creating several publications for print throughout the year such as Quintessentially Reserve and Quintessentially Pure and also creating online versions of these publications.

Applicants must possess a minimum of 2-3 years of related work experience in graphic design field.

Please apply with a CV and covering letter to christopher@quintessentiallypublishing.com

Soneva Kiri: bespoke tours to Angkor Wat

2011-06-08T07:47:00.000-07:00

Unofficially nicknamed "the eighth wonder of the world", Angkor Wat is one of the most monumental sites in south-east Asia. Veiled by myth and secrecy, this UNESCO World Heritage site is now reachable from

Thailand

’s plush Soneva Kiri.

This once forgotten city, located in Siem Riep, boasts over a thousand archaeological sites covering 170 square miles and deserves thorough exploration,

Koh Kood, the island on which Soneva Kiri can be found, is a stone’s throw from the Cambodian border, thereby allowing access by private plane in under two hours. The hotel will cover all border formalities and supplies skilled multi-lingual guides to escort you through the temples.

In true Six Senses style, trips can be tailored to the requests of individuals, couples or groups. An overnight stay is recommended to encourage an experience of Siem Riep that exceeds expectations; additional experiences include a trip to the walled city of Angkor Thom, visits to local monasteries, lunch served in the ricefields or candlelit dining in Angkor Wat itself.

For full details and to book an Angkor Wat tour call +66 (0) 3961 9800 or reservations-kiri@sixsenses.com.

Jaeger Le-Coultre: New Timepiece

2011-06-08T02:27:00.001-07:00

Jaeger Le-Coultre has created a unique new watch quite unlike any other. The
Duometre a Quantieme Lunair uses a Dual-Wing for its movement, which means that the timekeeping elements of the watch's movement are kept separate from the more complex functions of the device.

Wearers will note that the timepiece's calibre is kept separate. One section is occupied by devices that tell the hour, minute, second and jumping seconds, date and moon phase. Meanwhile, another facet is used to indicate the power supply, though each can be controlled by using the same crown button.
The watch, finished with 18-carat white gold casing, is limited edition with just 200 released.

www.jaeger-lecoultre.com

Mon Numéro

2011-06-06T02:47:00.000-07:00

L’Artisan Parfumeur, featured in Quintessentially Perfume, will be launching their Mon Numéro collection in June. The eight fragrances are versions of the semi-bespoke Mon Numero scents of 2009, and were all developed by perfumer Bertrand Duchaufour. Each fragrance will be exclusive to a particular L’Artisan boutique, but the collection will also be available online.

The unique scents feature 8 different moods, numbers and destinations, and are described as follows:

Mon Numéro 1: “A prelude to the collection, imbued with a gentle poetry, Mon Numéro 1 fills the heart with a lightness of being. Like our emblematic fragrance Mûre et Musc, this bold, seductive, irresistibly indulgent blend of pear and mimosa conceals its hand behind an air of mischief. Mon Numéro 1, with its naughty, mischievous mood, is like your first perfume, fresh and delicate as a dress blowing in a spring breeze.”

Mon Numéro 3: “A number capturing the spirit of young adults: full of life, passion and character. The effervescence of youth is evoked by a resounding, intoxicating top note that recalls an alcoholic drink, but also the virile, sober, sensual side of vetiver, for a man (or indeed woman) of refined tastes. Mon Numéro 3, with its spirited mood, is a supremely elegant charmer.”

Mon Numéro 4: “A fog of memories, expressed through an unexpected contrast. A return to the past, where we rediscover the familiar perfume of barbers’ shops. Traditional lavender rubs against intoxicating leather.

Mon Numéro 4, with its classic, nonchalant mood, has that reassuring je ne sais quoi… like a well-tailored suit.”

Mon Numéro 6: “Inspired by our travels: evoking sensations of rebirth in which the first drops of rain give life back to the earth. Planet Earth – with all its sublime and powerful richness. An unusual, lucid harmony between green, fruity, watery, floral and woody notes. Mon Numéro 6 has a dreamy, leafy mood, imagine yourself barefoot on the ground in the midst of a monsoon.”

Mon Numéro 7: The journey continues with a visit deep inside an Indian temple. A necklace of tuberose and jasmine around your neck, a chai tea in your hand and a whiff of spices in the air. Mon Numéro 7, with its exuberant mood, is a fantasy in which colours, movements, textures and sacred odours swirl and merge, like a colourful sari.

Mon Numéro 8: “Paying homage to a great classic of French perfumery, this enveloping scent has sweet, maternal tones, in which sublime iris is elegantly reassuring. A voluptuous cloud of powder to wear without restraint. Supremely chic. Mon Numéro 8, with its luxurious mood, is like a cashmere stole draped over the bare shoulders of a lady one evening at the opera.”

Mon Numéro 9: “Awaken your senses with an energising burst of freshness, in a modern interpretation of the famous Cologne. A classic top note: zesty, green and slightly tangy, it will leave you feeling uplifted, before catching you unawares with a contrast sustained first by shiso leaf, then by resinous notes that bring a sharp sophistication. Mon Numéro 9, with its festive mood, is like a vision of summer, in flip-flops and a white t-shirt in bright sunlight, a refreshing cocktail in hand.”

Mon Numéro 10: “This last act will be explosive. After our travels, secret tributes and other sensual pleasures, this perfume is an explosion of warm, enveloping notes. Quite simply addictive. A heady, memorable ode to a highly sought-after note of oriental perfumes. Mon Numéro 10, with its eccentric, piercing mood, is like an evening gown that turns heads all on its own.”

The L’Artisan Parfumeur Mon Numéro fragrances will be available in 100 ml, priced at 115€ each from the European online shop.

Museum of Me

2011-06-03T08:00:00.000-07:00

The latest in snazzy Facebook apps takes the form of a virtual museum of your online activity. Compiling all of your Facebook information, Intel’s Museum of Me fabricates an exhibition that features your frequent likes, uploaded photos, and (bizarrely enough) frequent words that you post on your page. Narcissistic, yes, but surprisingly visually impressive. Check it out here: museumofme.intel.com

Design Loft 24/7

2011-06-03T03:37:00.000-07:00

After her resounding success in 2008, architect Fernanda Marques has unveiled her latest design, the Loft 24/7, situated in Sao Paolo, Brazil. The spacious bungalow covers 180m² of a 250m² plot and fully embraces nature; it is entirely open to the outside world. Constructed from materials in their rough state – comprising rough stone walls and limestone floors - steel and glass combine to accentuate this unusual merging of the man-made and the natural.

A wooden deck projects the house beyond its internal boundaries, creating an established link between the interior and the exteror environments. Glazed walls and ceilings ensure a sense of spatial continuity, which is the one of Marques' recognisable design traits. In the air living-room, bookcases host an array of organice glass objects by US glass artist Jeff Zimmerman, one of the architect's favourite artists, marking his first exposition in Brazil.

Hotel Missoni Belek

2011-06-02T08:30:00.001-07:00

The list of Missoni Hotels currently under-construction is gradually expanding. With the first opening in Edinburgh receiving much success, the high-profile brand has been creeping across the globe with several locations in mind. Hotel Missoni

Kuwait

was recently completed earlier this year, with Oman and Brazil closely following in its footsteps. The latest addition to the list is Antalya on the Turkish Riviera. Personally designed by Rosita Missoni, the newest of the hotels will closely match its predecessors in terms of interior, but the grand difference will be its celebrity-designed gold course. Swedish golf-champion, Annika Sorenstam, has been commissioned to design the 18-hole course, which will be just one of the hotel’s many attractions. The Hotel Missoni Belek, Antalya is set to open in 2013.

Mon Parfum Cheri

2011-06-02T02:17:00.000-07:00

Annick Goutal, featured in Quintessentially Perfume, will launch a new fragrance this coming September, with a preview at Harrods in early July. Mon Parfum Chéri, a new perfume for women is described as a “very feminine, elegant and mesmerizing fragrance, inspired by Hollywood glamorous actresses”.

Mon Parfum Chéri was created by perfumer Isabelle DoyenAnnik with notes include patchouli, sweet plum, iris, violet and heliotropin.

Annick Goutal Mon Parfum Chéri will be available in 50 and 100 ml Eau de Toilette and 100 ml Eau de Parfum.

Reflection Dimension: Shanghai's Museum of Glass

2011-06-01T04:23:00.000-07:00

Last week’s grand launch of Shanghai’s Museum of Glass marked Shanghai’s campaign to become a globally important cultural and creative centre by having opened 100 museums in just ten years.

The architectural structure and exterior were designed by Shanghai-based German firm Logon. Glashütte Lambets, also of Germany, provided enamelled glass for the museum’s façade, painstakingly inscribed with glass-industry terms in ten languages.

The museum concept and interior art direction were supervised by Coordination Asia, who also oversaw the coordination of all architects, artists and multimedia specialists, forming the bulk of the international team.

Sleek, black glass envelopes the interior and reflects hundreds of tiny LED lights to form a multi-dimensional glittering room while screens positioned throughout the space emphasize interaction and highlight the interdependence and influence of the diversity of continents, materials and peoples involved in the art of glass.

Shangahi Museum of Glass

Hercules continues his legacy

2011-05-31T07:56:00.000-07:00

Newsflash from the European Nature Trust: The first uropean Elk born north of the "Great Glen' in 1100 years!

Last Friday afternoon, the 20th May, "Hulda", a European Elk imported from the north of Sweden in 2007, gave birth to her first calf. David Clark, Alladale Wilderness Reserve's Head Ranger, reports that mother and calf are in great shape. "Hercules", the sire of the calf (the calf's sex is unknown yet), has been temporarily "dispatched" by Hulda and watches on with interest from afar!

Elk usually give birth to twins, but it is quite normal for a "maiden" female to give birth to a single calf. The Reserve staff are delighted at the news and the event coincides beautifully for the 200 students who will camp out for four nights over the next seven weeks at Alladale who will get the rare chance to observe the "Kings of the Forest", as elk are known, with their new addition.

There are good fossil records of elk indicating it was found throughout Scotland after the Ice Age, as far north as Caithness. Elk fossil remains collected from 19 sites can be seen in the National Museum of Scotland, Chambers Street, Edinburgh.

10 Inspired Summer Destinations

2011-05-31T02:34:00.000-07:00

If traipsing to the same hotel in the same country every summer is getting monotonous, perhaps it’s time to add a little flavour to your stale routine. Qube has ten of the most extraordinary places in mind.

Africa

Quirimbas Archipelago, Mozambique – Encompassing the most beautiful stretch of the African coast, Mozambique satisfies several holiday desires in one. Snorkel meandering rivers and mangroves down to the ocean and dive some of the most staggeringly beautiful coral reefs in the world. Track exotic wildlife across dusty plains. If all else fails, indulge in the height of luxury and daydream on a deserted beach with a fresh fruit cocktail.

India

Kerala, India – Although much of India is hit by the monsoon throughout the summer, southern India stays relatively dry. Glide through Kerala’s peaceful backwaters on a houseboat and sail past fisherman navigating traditional canoes. Marvel at the proud colonial buildings in Fort Kochi. Trail through tea plantations in Munmar, or ride an elephant through fields of spice in the foothills. Combine with a short flight to the Maldives and bask on sun-kissed shores.

Europe

Basilicata, Italy – A remote and undiscovered part of Southern Italy, Basilicata has an unusual and intriguing history. Famous for its urban cave dwellings, now designated World Heritage site status, the town was used to film Mel Gibson’s The Passion of the Christ. Survey the timeless, mountainous horizon and stroll through quaint fishing villages. Soak up some of Italy’s best wines in the captivating volcanic vineyards.

Budapest, Hungary - An enchanting city rich in culture and teeming with architectural sights, Budapest is also the only capital where you can go caving. Roam the mysterious subterranean maze and explore an altogether different world beneath the city surface. Emerge to soak up the afternoon sun and walk alongside the Danube riverside. Spoil yourself in a world-class thermal spa or sip a glass of wine and people-watch from a discreet cafe in Heroes’ square.

Asia

Jiuzhaigou Sichuan, China – The surreal scenery in this nature reserve really does feel a world apart. Dip your toes into ice-blue lakes and tackle the labyrinth of walking trails that wind ever-upwards. Breathe in the woody smell of lush trees and feel the crunch of pine needles under your step. Stealthily creep through ancient forests and spot an endangered giant panda, native to the region. Wander deep into the jagged alpine valley overlooked by snow-capped mountains and cascading waterfalls.

Muscat, Oman – Escape eastward and roam Oman’s thrilling cities and glowing dunes. Haggle in the lively souk and commute across barren deserts on a cantankerous camel. Investigate crumbling historical forts and trace vast rock formations on the golden coastline. Spend the night in a luxurious silk tent with an elaborate four poster bed in the middle of the desolate sands. Drape yourself in jewels and imagine that you reside in one of the magnificent Sultan’s palaces.

North America

Carmel-by-the-Sea, California - Home to quite the colony of artists, Carmel-by-the-Sea is renowned for its European charm. Amble along the picturesque beach-front and take a deep breath of salty air. Be lured into the boutiques and contemplate bits and pieces, leave with something you want but don’t need. Peek inside the picturesque galleries and muse over paintings. Lunch in a busy bistro and line up with the locals to see the latest fancy performance.

Central America

Roatan, Honduras – Experience uncompromised opulence in the scattered boutique retreats while this destination remains relatively under-wraps. Wander along the beach-side shops on the West End and quench your thirst with a Salva Vida (Honduran beer that translates as ‘Life Saver’). Take a trip to the ancient ruins of Copan, where night-time brings velvety blue skies punctuated with scintillating stars, or partake in sunrise yoga beside a waterfall in the depths of the rainforest.

South America

Iquitos, Peru - Often dismissed in favour of leading tourist attraction, Macchu Picchu, Peru in fact hosts a large portion of the Amazonian rainforest. Rise in darkness to catch the deafening chorus of multi-coloured parrots on the clay cliff-side. Trek beside the river and spot a luminous tree-frog devour a cricket twice its size. Watch the monkeys swing through the canopy and learn the medicinal secrets of the jungle from native Peruvians. Encounter a large poisonous spider and conquer your fears.

Australia

Daintree Rainforest, Cairns – Daintree is the oldest living tropical rainforest in the world, and this World Heritage Listed area contains the highest number of rare plant and animal species in the world. Hide out in your very own tree house, complete with all essentials (and a Jacuzzi on the balcony). Sample Tasmanian oysters or smoked crocodile in a secluded spot by a freshwater lagoon. Indulge in a healing massage with organic oils from the Rainforest, or take part in the local Kuku Yalanji Aboriginal traditions.

Keeping up the spirit of the Renaissance

2011-05-19T03:05:00.000-07:00

Last week saw the grand opening of the new 5-star St Pancras Renaissance hotel (a renovation of the former Midland Grand). The opening marks the end of the revamp of St Pancras International station. Overseen by general manager Kevin Kelly, the project aimed to restore the hotel to its original Victorian grandeur, and has apparently succeeded – it is currently hailed as ‘the most romantic building in London.’

Featuring beautiful Gothic Revival metalwork, gold leaf ceilings, and even hand-stencilled wall designs, the St Pancras Renaissance combines Victorian grandeur with modern luxury. Revolving doors sweep the guests into the lobby and ‘ascending rooms’ (elevators) carry them upwards to the extravagant suites. We can’t wait to check it out.

St Pancras Renaissance