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Tatah’s art incorporates elements of American abstraction and Italian primitivism: nothing seems to have escaped this great contemporary painter. He recently received us at his immense studio in southern France with his characteristic warmth and generosity.

Your paintings depict figures on monochromatic backgrounds that you approach as if you were an abstract artist. You are a man of your time, but you use an ancient painting technique that dates back to antiquity (encaustic painting). How do you describe your style?

In creating my works, I draw on artistic choices from widely divergent periods, such as encaustic painting, which is essential because it catches the light and enables the colour to come alive. In terms of the way I position my figures in these “abstract” spaces, that stems from the interest I had at a very young age in artists like Ellsworth Kelly and Robert Ryman. I realized that colour was a limitless medium for experimenting with feelings. With every piece I paint, it’s always a fragile and completely unpredictable experience. It all has a very precise meaning. I don’t want my figures to belong to any one territory, any one nation. I only seek to give them a presence. That’s why they occupy these abstract spaces. For me, the real question is what are we doing, and what can we hope for in life?

Music is omnipresent in your day-to-day life. I have always wondered if that has something to do with the abstract quality of your work.

Music is a form of expression that goes straight to the heart; it’s a feeling. And that’s what I strive for when I paint. And then there’s everything you imagine when you listen to a CD or a record: you’re swept away by an atmosphere that transports you somewhere else, and you change states. I love that intoxicating feeling. I always paint several canvasses at the same time because of the drying times, step by step, colour by colour. It gives my work a rhythm: repetition, variation, resumption, and expansion.

In the major exhibition presented at the Collection Lambert in Avignon, I was deeply touched by the humanity that you represent in response to world events. What is your relationship to the present and to the past?

I am not here to comment on the state of the world, past or present. My language is painting and art. I make sure my work subtly says something about what it is to be a man in today’s world. I had the good fortune of being invited to take a look at the Collection put together by the great gallery owner Yvon Lambert with the cooperation of Eric Mézil, the Collection’s director, to establish a dialogue between my latest canvasses and an ensemble of abstract works by such American artists as Brice Marden, Robert Mangold, Robert Barry, Barnett Newman and so on. Initiatives like these always open up a new realm of discovery and create an unforgettable experience.

djameltatah.com

 

 

Text: Barbara Stehle
Photos: © studio-djamel Tatah
Illustrations: Untitled, 2016. Oil and wax on canvas, 2 leaves, 220 x 200 cm each © Djamel Tatah ADAGP Paris – Untitled, 2016. Oil and wax on canvas, 300 x 200 cm © Djamel Tatah, ADAGP Paris

 

Originally constructed and inhabited by George Stephen, 1st Baron Mount Stephen, then transformed into a prestigious private club, the George Stephen House is now reborn as a luxurious modern hotel. This new hotel, owned by the Tidan Hospitality and Real Estate Group, is located at 1440 Drummond Street in the heart of the Golden Square Mile. It attracts a sophisticated clientele, attesting to this neighbourhood’s strategic position in Montréal’s luxury market.

 

The history of this little Victorian manor is tied to that of Baron George Stephen, who built the George Stephen House in 1880. This accomplished businessman was cofounder and first president of the Canadian Pacific Railway. He was one of the most influential people of the 19th century, particularly due to his part in the creation of Canada’s first transcontinental railway. He was one of the richest men in North America. Thus, the George Stephen House has hosted Montréal’s high society throughout the last century.

A building designated as a historic monument

The space was transformed into a prestigious private business club for men in 1927. For many years, the exceptional space has played host to elites from Montréal and around the world, including several dignitaries.

 

Designated a heritage building in the ‘70s, the Mount Stephen Club was bought in 2006 by the Tidan Hospitality and Real Estate Group. Wanting to preserve its historical integrity, Tidan undertook extensive and complex renovations to find the building a new vocation. Last May, Le Mount Stephen Hotel was finally unveiled.

 

A harmonious marriage of old and new

The project was entrusted to architecture and design firms Lemay and Provencher_Roy. The result is spectacular. The outside of the heritage building has remained intact. The new part—an 11 storey building—is barely distinguishable from the street. Such is the success of the building’s integration into its urban surroundings.

 

The George Stephen House serves as the entrance to the hotel and houses its restaurant and event spaces (1,800 sq. ft.) in a decor full of character. The modern wing holds the lounge and welcome desk, the rooms and suites, the fitness centre, a spa and a 5,000 sq. ft. ballroom.

 

Here and there, furniture from the era of the George Stephen House adorns a corridor or a suite, a reminder of the spirit of the space. Antoine Naoum, the hotel’s general manager, says, “Le Mount Stephen is a magnificent mix of heritage and the modern art of living.” By staying at this hotel, you not only benefit from outstanding customer service (Clef d’Or concierge), but you also have the chance to travel back through time while retaining the comforts of modern life.

Luxurious rooms and suites

The 90 rooms and suites are furnished with fl oor-toceiling windows, and in some cases, private terraces. All are equipped with the fi nest modern technology: digitally controlled lights and curtains, fl at screen TVs, heated toilet seats, mattresses made to measure, bathrooms with chromotherapy shower heads, etc.

 

Regardless of which room you choose, the hotel is designed so that each visitor can enjoy a view of the city from the comfort of an intimate and peaceful environment. The four lofts, spanning two fl oors, boast spectacular glass ceilings offering a view of the starry night sky. On the top fl oor, the 5,000 sq. ft. Royal Suite offers the largest surface area for this type of space in Montréal. This practical (single storey with elevator) yet elegant suite offers a bright and comfortable living space with an immense glass ceiling, enchanting decor and multiple terraces.

 

 

Loft features

  • 69 ROOMS, 16 SUITES 4 SKY LOFTS (LOFTS UNDER THE STARS) AND ONE 5,000 SQ. FT. ROYAL SUITE
  • ENTIRELY AUTOMATED SMART ROOMS
  • CHROMOTHERAPY SHOWER
  • SMART TOILETS

 

Sky loft features

  • FOYER
  • ANGLED PANORAMIC GLASS CEILINGS
  • ILLUMINATED STAIRCASES
  • SIGNATURE FREE-STANDING BATH
  • PRIVATE TERRACES

 

Services and amenities

  • CONCIERGE SERVICE
  • LAUNDRY AND DRY CLEANING
  • VALET SERVICE
  • FITNESS CENTRE
  • LUXURIOUS SPA
  • ELIZABETH BALLROOM (5,000 SQ. FT.)
  • EVENT SPACES IN THE GEORGE STEPHEN HOUSE (1,800 SQ.FT.)

 

The Bar George

The period ambiance of the Bar George Restaurant contributes to the hotel’s celebration of the historical legacy of Mount Stephen while offering a modern menu. Superb Cuban mahogany panelling, stained glass, a spectacular staircase and a circular marble bar: if it weren’t for the visitors’ modern clothing, you might truly believe yourself to be transported back to the great age of the Golden Square Mile. Once reserved for members of the private club, the Bar George is now open to the public. It’s your chance to taste the excellent British cuisine from chefs Anthony Walsh of Oliver & Bonacini and Kevin Ramasawmy (formerly of Maison Boulud and Daniel) for lunch, dinner, or weekend brunch.

 

Redefi ning standards of excellence, Le Mount Stephen Hotel is one of the three Canadian hotels that is part of the Leading Hotels of the World Consortium. “Montréal is becoming a luxury destination. We are proud to contribute to this transformation. Le Mount Stephen Hotel is the jewel of the Tidan Group,” concludes Mr. Naoum.

 

www.lemountstephen.com

 

 

 

Text: Diane Stehle

For the first time in North America, a remarkable exhibition will bring together 17 Australian artists specializing in contemporary jewellery. “Aurora Australis” will take place from June 1 to July 15, 2018 at Galerie Noel Guyomarc’h, Canada’s only art gallery dedicated to jewellery. Take advantage of this unique opportunity to discover the talent of Australian creators.

 

Spectacular landscapes, the incomparable diversity of nature and Indigenous art forms have always been explored through art as subject matter and sources of inspiration. Today, other issues have taken their place alongside traditional subjects, including identity, the urban and natural environments, politics and our understanding of reality. Jewellery is no exception to this trend. While the distances involved no doubt explain the lack of visibility of Australian jewellery-making in North America, the discipline is thriving in Melbourne, Sydney and Canberra. Supported by government organizations and museums that regularly purchase their works, these artists deserve greater visibility. Now, after highlighting the creations of Finland, France, Spain, the Netherlands and Taiwan, the gallery is pleased to showcase jewellery from this far-off land with this new exhibition.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

“Aurora Australis presents the work of 17 contemporary Australian artists whose creations, in both their form and materials, are totally unique. The pieces selected capture the scope and quality of current Australian production, which is supported and spearheaded by a community of engaged artists, teachers and institutions,” said Katie Scott, the owner of Gallery Funaki in Melbourne and the exhibition’s guest curator.

 

Scott’s impressive selection is an invitation to visit Australia through this unique art form and think about the expressive and esthetic possibilities of jewellery. The artists’ approaches vary widely in terms of the concepts explored and the materials used. The resulting exhibition showcases the multifaceted nature of Australia, which is shown not to be a single, monolithic land but a grouping of different places; not a single nationality, but a multiplicity of stories and experiences.

 

In fact, Scott states that “When Noel Guyomarc’h asked me to put together this exhibition, I didn’t set out to find a common thread that I could use to weave all these artists and their works together. On the contrary, it was the differences in their subject matters and artistic approaches that I found most interesting.” The result is a museum-calibre exhibition that should definitely not be missed!

 

June 1 to July 15, 2018 at Galerie Noel Guyomarc’h

 

www.galerienoelguyomarch.com

 

Brivia Group and Gansu Tianqing Real Estate, partners in the YUL Condominiums project, have come together once more to develop Stanbrooke, a 19-storey luxury rental apartment building. It will be built at 2061 Stanley Street, near Sherbrooke, and will welcome its first renters in July 2018.

 

After the success of the prestigious YUL Condominiums, the two partners chose to develop rental apartments this time, since the market and the neighbourhood are particularly suited to them. “The area is near universities, Stanley and Sherbrooke streets and several office buildings. With this project, we are particularly targeting students and young professionals, as well as people who want a weekend pied-à-terre in Montréal right downtown,” explains Kheng Ly, Founder, President and CEO of Brivia Group.

 

The project’s architecture has been entrusted to the firm Marco Manini Architecte, in collaboration with international design consultants Humphreys & Partners Architects, with the mission of creating a warm, modern and urban living space with cutting-edge technology, where residents can live, work and play.

 

 

Stanbrooke will feature 178 apartments with one, two or three bedrooms and a surface area of 364 to 1130 square feet. Forty of them will be semi-furnished (five appliances, bedframe, storage, desk). Rent will include key services such as telecommunications, wi-fi and electricity. “We want to offer our clients a smart, connected environment. The idea of including these services in the rent seemed only natural,” adds Ly. Future tenants will be able to rent an apartment for a minimum of six months

 

 

“We want to offer our clients a smart, connected environment.”

Kheng Ly, Founder, President and CEO of Brivia Group

 

Each unit will be equipped with technological innovations such as home automation and therapy lights. Tenants can choose the atmosphere that they want at home by setting the colour temperature of the lighting.

Beautiful common areas

To create a feeling of harmony and well-being, the building will have several common areas. “We want Stanbrooke to offer spaces that encourage encounters and communal living, reflecting our urban, tech-savvy clientele,” says Ly.

 

The lobby will therefore have a lounge area and coworking stations, while the second floor will be home to a large fitness centre. Stanbrooke will also have a loungestyle recreation area on its roof, with a kitchen and an island, and a spectacular patio. Finally, indoor parking, a space for bikes and storage lockers will complete the package.

 

Overview

  • 178 units of 364 to 1,130 square feet
  • Studios, 1, 2 and 3 bedrooms (from $1,220 to $2,995 per month)
  • Forty semi-furnished units
  • Office space
  • Contemporary kitchen
  • Stylish bathroom with glass shower
  • Floor-to-ceiling windows
  • Home automation (Amazon Echo, Smart Lock)
  • Electricity, wi-fi, hot water included

Services

  • Two elevators
  • Super secure electronic access control system
  • Indoor parking for cars and bikes
  • High-end fitness centre with a yoga space
  • Working and meeting areas (co-working)
  • Rooftop patio with an indoor lounge area

Sales Office

2061 Stanley Street
Montréal, QC H3A 0B7
T. 514 835-6868
info@stanbrooke.ca

 

www.stanbrooke.ca

Text : Diane Stehle

 

With its beaches, Art Deco districts and bustling nightlife, Miami is one of the most attractive cities in the United States, according to many. A city of a thousand faces, it possesses all of the attractions to please the most demanding of people: it has excellent places to dine, have a drink, or shop, but there are also beautiful places to explore. A guided tour.

WHERE TO STAY

THE BILTMORE

Dating from 1926, this hotel is designated a National Historic Landmark. Several public figures have stayed there. It boasts a colossal pool, a golf course, tennis courts, and a French restaurant, the Palme d’Or, which is Michelin-starred.

 

EAST

Situated at the heart of Brickell City Centre, this elegantly decorated 352-room hotel has four pools, several conference rooms, spas, high-end shopping and a cinema. Its rooftop bar and garden offers a breathtaking view of the city and its Uruguayan restaurant has quickly become a favourite among foodies.

THE DELANO

Bridging together Art Deco and contemporary design, the Delano Hotel is one of the trendiest hotels of Miami Beach. Designed by Philippe Starck, it offers two restaurants, a sumptuous pool, a fitness center, a rooftop spa, as well as conference rooms. Located three minutes away from the beach, the hotel has balconies with an unbeatable view of the ocean.

FAENA HOTEL MIAMI BEACH

This beachside hotel that opened its doors barely a year ago has already become a reference in the luxury hotel trade. It has 169 rooms and 13 penthouses designed by Alan Faena, in partnership with film director Baz Luhrmann and producer Catherine Martin, and a spa covering more than 2,000 m2. It houses two excellent restaurants, one Argentinian and the other Asian, in addition to a theatre offering Broadway-inspired shows.

 

FONTAINEBLEAU

Designed in the 50s, Fontainebleau is one of Miami Beach’s most highly esteemed hotels. The contemporarily designed establishment has six pools, nine restaurants, nine bars, coffee shops and nightclubs—including LIV, one of the most hip, high-energy locations in the city. And don’t forget its spa, the Lapis, which Martha Stewart hailed as “the most beautiful spa in America.”

FOUR SEASONS MIAMI

Located facing Biscayne Bay, this Art Deco hotel is situated in the business district. In addition to two outdoor pools, it offers biking or yoga fitness classes free of charge. Its flawless service and impeccable catering reflect the standard of quality of the Four Seasons Hotels.

LE SETAI

This hotel combining refinement and well-being is the ideal location for those in search of peace and quiet. Renowned for its yoga and tai chi courses, the Setai has three infinity pools, each at different temperatures. It’s an oasis of peace in the heart of Miami Beach.

LE THE ST. REGIS BAL HARBOUR RESORT

The St. Regis Bal Harbour Resort is an oasis of elegance located near the shore, positioned directly in front of the famous Bal Harbour Shops and just a couple of minutes away from South Beach. Its rooms are incredibly comfortable and well equipped, displaying a modern design. Several suites include a kitchenette and a large balcony with a view of the ocean. The St. Regis Bal Harbour Resort offers several treatment rooms, a hammam, and Finnish saunas. The resort is fitted with more than 1,000 m2 of conference rooms suitable for various different events.

 

WHERE TO DINE

With excellent chefs and local and creative cuisine, diversity and quality are what define the Miami culinary scene. Other than typical American dishes, you can find Latin American restaurants in the Little Havana district, but also Spanish, French, Italian, Asian, Lebanese, and other cuisines. It’s a melting pot that will satisfy the palates of even the most adventurous.

 

1826 Restaurant & Lounge offers delicious and creative cuisine. The garden and patio at Casa Tua provide an exquisite environment to complement the chef’s Italian creations. The famous Palme d’Or restaurant at the Biltmore offers French cuisine in an intimate setting. The Juvia, an emblematic Miami restaurant, serves French, Asian, and even Peruvian dishes with a panoramic view of the city. And the food at Azul is served alongside an unbeatable view of downtown Miami.

EXPLORE

THE DESIGN DISTRICT

It’s only recently that the Design District managed to gain its reputation in Florida’s capital. Today, the district houses more than 70 art galleries and as many luxury boutiques. Each year, the Design Miami and Art Basel fairs take place there. This pedestrian zone includes famous boutiques such as Bulgari and LVMH.

 

THE FAENA DISTRICT

Developed by Argentinian Alan Faena, from whom it derives its name, this district is a new concept tested and approved in Buenos Aires. When he arrived in Miami, the architect wished to restore older hotel complexes and art galleries, which he succeeded in doing. This district of luxury residences invites tourists to discover a cultural enclave with museums, theatres and restaurants through contemporary and extravagant architecture. Notably, the Faena Art Center and Faena Hotel Miami Beach are located here.

 

WYNWOOD

Once very industrial, this district nevertheless finds itself at the center of attention among Miami tourists. In the 2000s, it attracted several investors. Millionaire and real estate heavyweight Tony Goldman had 30 street artists come decorate its walls in 2009. From then on, Wynwood was transformed into a trendy district where bars, restaurants and art galleries flourish.

 

SHOPPING

The legendary Bal Harbour Shops make this shopping area a national gold standard in terms of luxury shopping. Moreover, Bal Harbour is stunning with its palm trees, shaded passageways, tropical flowers and fountains. If you prefer to shop outdoors, head to the Shops at Merrick Park in the heart of Coral Gables or the pedestrian zone of Lincoln Road

VISIT THE CITY BY HOT-AIR BALLOON…

Aboard a Miami Balloon Rides hot-air balloon, you can overlook Everglades National Park, Biscayne National Park and the Atlantic Ocean. The adventure comes to a close with a picnic and a glass of Champagne.

… OR BY BOAT

Another way to discover Miami is by going aboard a small cruise ship during the day or in the evening. Holiday of Magic and Island Queen Cruises offer several excursions.

DO SOME DIVING

For lovers of the sea and of diving, Miami is the ideal destination. The coral reefs of the Florida Straits, the third largest barrier reef in the world, and the wrecks of Biscayne National Park Maritime Heritage Trail, beautiful liners that became shipwrecked, are not to be missed.

FAMILY OUTINGS

• Matheson Hammock Park

Ideal for a swim with the little guys. Older children can try paddleboarding or windsurfing.

• Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden

An outstanding botanical garden with a virgin forest and a butterfly conservatory.

• Venetian Pool

An absolutely enchanting swimming location created by natural spring water with caves and waterfalls.

 

 

For more information: www.miamiandbeaches.com

We would like to thank the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau, and in particular Christelle Albistur for her valuable collaboration.

 

Text: Diane Stehle

Innova Condos, C3 Cavendish, and YUL—the largest residential project in downtown Montréal—and now also Stanbrooke: Brivia Group has an impressive portfolio of large-scale real estate projects in the city under its belt. This investment and development company helps revitalize the neighbourhood and promote the city on an international stage. Interview with Kheng Ly, Brivia Group’s President and CEO.

Brivia Group is a key player in the development of the Montréal real estate market. What types of projects interest you and how do they distinguish themselves?

Our portfolio includes mostly residential projects, but we also develop commercial projects. Above all, they meet the market’s needs. They are located in strategic areas and stand out by their quality in all aspects, including architectural, construction, material, technology and energy consumption.

The YUL real estate project seems to be quite advanced. Please tell us about these townhouses.

Boasting 2,400 square feet of naturally lit space, the 17 YUL townhouses represent the peak of quality in terms of living conditions. Each unit includes three bedrooms, three bathrooms and two powder rooms. On the ground floor, the Italian kitchen by Scavolini reflects the refinement of this living space. The rooftop terrace is equipped with a complete outdoor kitchen and a lounge area overlooking the city and a private garden. Plus our townhouse residents have access to the communal areas of both highrises.

What are the distinguishing features of the Stanbrooke project?

Located on Stanley Street, this high-end residential highrise building has 19 floors. Chic, elegant and modern, it will house 178 apartments, including studios, 3 1/2 and 4 1/2 apartments and 5 1/2 penthouse-like apartments on the 18th floor, as well as a fitness room, a rooftop terrace, a lounge and an indoor parking lot. The unique architectural concept is the work of Montréal company Marco Manini Architecte. It was developed at the American headquarters of the international design and consulting firm Humphreys & Partners Architects. The first residents are expected to be able to move in in July 2018, and work is expected to be completed by September 2018.

Who is it intended for?

Stanbrooke is intended for a wide range of clients: particularly young professionals working downtown and students attending nearby universities, but, in short, anyone who would appreciate a pied-à-terre in downtown Montréal.

YUL Condominiums, one of the largest residential projects in downtown Montréal, has just won the Énergir award for better use of natural gas at the 35th Domus Awards gala. Is environmental responsibility important to you?

For sure. In addition to its contemporary architectural style, innovative design, cutting-edge technological components and high-quality materials, YUL also sets itself apart by its choices concerning energy efficiency, which are admittedly less visible to the naked eye but are just as important to us and to our residents. We innovate and design projects that take sustainable development principles into account. The use of natural gas is aligned with a vision of the future that offers our residents an environmentally sound living space with a focus on comfort.

How do you see Montréal in 10 years, from an economic and social standpoint?

Montréal is a city of the future, whether in technological, economic or social terms. We only need to think of the buzz felt nowadays around artificial intelligence. The city is trying to strengthen its position as one of the world leaders in the sector. The Ville de Montréal and several groups have also deployed efforts to encourage social cohesion and coexistence. Montréal strongly encourages the social inclusion of all people, regardless of whether they’ve grown up here or abroad. I’m living proof! If the past is an indication of the future, then I’m very optimistic for the future.

It’s been said that Montréal ranks among the best cities for millenials. What do you think?

I absolutely agree. What makes Montréal great is all its inhabitants, the people of Montréal—they are the soul of the city. The joie de vivre that defines Montréal is very attractive to millenials. Despite its 375 years, Montréal is still a very young city that sets itself apart internationally through its creativity, innovation, technology, openmindedness and cultural diversity. These are all factors that engage young people today.

 

Text: Diane Stehle

In late 2018, a spectacular new project is set to redefine and re-energize Montreal’s downtown core and bring a worldclass luxury ecosystem to life in the city’s centre.

 

Developed by Carbonleo, the dynamic Quebec property development and management company, Montréal will once again become home to the world’s leading luxury hotel and resort brand, Four Seasons.

 

Located at the heart of Montréal’s ultra chic Golden Square Mile, within walking distance of multiple museums, art galleries, gourmet restaurants and luxury boutiques, the 170-room hotel, along with only 18 spectacular Four Seasons Private Residences, is set to transform De la Montagne Street forever.

 

“We’ve been working with some of the world’s best architects and designers, including Gilles & Boissier for the hotel’s interior layout, Philip Hazan Design for the private residences, and Lemay and Sid Lee for the building architecture, ” said Carbonleo Executive Vice President and Partner Claude Marcotte. “We’re also working with a number of talented and world-renowned local partners in the areas of design and lifestyle to create a truly inspiring and unique ecosystem for visitors and Montrealers alike.”

 

Luxury, calm and exquisite pleasure

The energy of the hotel will emanate from its highly anticipated 4th floor, acting as the social nexus of place. Aweinspiring restaurants designed by international luminaries with a strong Montreal connection give way to a modern interpretation of the gourmet experience done the Montreal way, by an internationally acclaimed local culinary visionary. Guests will be able to drink up the sexy atmosphere in the restaurant or connect in a beautifully landscaped outdoor canopy when making the most of Montreal’s warmer days and nights is a priority!

 

 

The upscale hotel will house an indoor pool, a fitness centre and a state-of-the-art spa, allowing guests to unwind in all four seasons after taking in the sensual energy of the city and all that is possible at the hotel. Cleverly designed to accommodate major events, the hotel will also include a 6,000 square foot ballroom with a sweeping terrace with some of the best views in the city.

 

“The project’s inspiration is Le Palais des Possibles,
an iconic place where sensuality meets intelligent design,
where a world of exclusivity opens before your eyes,
a world in which each detail seduces and
surprises you at every turn.

 

Murielle Zagury, Vice President Marketing at Carbonleo

 

The sky’s the limit

Sitting on top of the Four Seasons Hotel, the private residences are homes in the sky, providing their inhabitants with unobstructed views of the city. With soaring ceilings and floor-to-ceiling windows, they are bathed in light, with large terraces providing a front row view of every sunrise and sunset. The high-quality materials, sleek design and careful finishes all contribute to a luxurious experience of contemporary harmony and serenity.

 

As proud owners at the city’s most sought-after address, the fortunate few who will live in these luxurious surroundings will have exclusive access to the hotel’s facilities while enjoying personalized à la carte services. Residents can write their own lifestyle rules, whether hiring a chef for a festive evening at home, consulting a personal trainer or shopper, or embracing the nightlife of the hotel with the promise of returning to the luxury cocoon of the residence.

A celebration of urban life

With year-round international festivals and events, Montreal is one of the world’s style, culture and good living capitals, blending the best of European and North American culture. Built in the heart of the action, the new Four Seasons development will reflect the city’s unique personality. Linking the Bell Centre to the museum district, this new living space will be adjacent to Saint Catherine Street’s prestigious Ogilvy boutique in downtown Montreal. Currently under renovation, the new Ogilvy’s/Holt Renfrew concept will be a mustsee luxury destination, covering over 220,000 square feet. “Montrealers have been waiting to see how De la Montagne Street will evolve,” said Jean-François Breton, President of Carbonleo. “We are very proud to be leading this outstanding project that’s sure to revitalize the downtown core.”

 

More than just a tourist and residential complex, Four Seasons Montreal’s Hotel and Private Residences will create a true luxury, lifestyle and gourmet food ecosystem at the heart of the Golden Square Mile, becoming an iconic space where Montrealers and visitors want to be.

 

The 170-room hotel

  • Spa
  • Indoor pool
  • Fitness centre
  • 6,000 sq. ft. ballroom
  • Gourmet restaurant with large terrace

The 18 private residences

(From the hotel’s 14th floor and up)

  • 24-hour concierge service
  • 24-hour reception and valet service
  • Private, secure access to the residences and lobby
  • Spa, fitness centre, indoor pool
  • 2,800 to 7,000 sq. ft. units
  • From $3 million

 

Text: Diane Stehle

Located on the southern tip of the Baja California peninsula, Los Cabos is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Mexico, with its desert climate, breathtaking landscapes and ideal ocean setting for scuba diving. Many stars, such as George Clooney and Cindy Crawford, have made it their home, while others visit regularly for vacations. Here are a few go-to places and activities that might make you want to visit this little corner of paradise too.

 

Los Cabos consists of two towns: San José del Cabo, a traditional Mexican village, and Cabo San Lucas, which is much more touristy. Close to 35 kilometres of beautiful Sea of Cortez coastline separate them. Here, villas, luxury hotels and golf courses abound.

 

Cabo San Lucas has a very beautiful marina where sailboats, fishing boats, water taxis and sumptuous yachts are anchored. In close proximity, cafés, restaurants, shopping centres and walking paths become the meeting place for visitors from all walks of life. Once the sun sets, the city is very lively, and its nightclubs, including the Cabo Wabo Cantina founded by rock legend Sammy Hagar, are renowned for their festive atmosphere.

WHAT TO DO

THRILL-SEEKING

Hiking on desert paths, biking across the mountains to Punta Gorda or the Cabo Real nature reserve, riding camels, driving 4x4s in the desert: ecotourism and adventure enthusiasts will find an amazing array of activities in Los Cabos.

 

EL ARCO (THE ARCH)

Take a short trip to the Empacadora beach, favoured by locals. There, off in the distance, you’ll see the rocky arch that is the town’s symbol. To see it up close, take a water taxi from the marina. The view is spectacular on the tip of Baja California where the Pacific Ocean meets the Sea of Cortez. It’s quite fitting that this place is sometimes called “the end of the world.”

 

SCUBA DIVING

There is so much marine life in the Sea of Cortez that Jacques Cousteau called it the “aquarium of the world.” Dozens of idyllic beaches, such as Playa el Chileno, are perfect for scuba diving.

SPORT FISHING

Ranked among the five best fishing destinations in the world, Los Cabos can boast of being the “Marlin Capital of the World.” Here, marlins can reach up to 500 kilos! There are also many other fish species, including the sea bream and swordfish. Pisces Sportfishing (www.piscessportfishing. com) offers well-organized fishing trips that can last several days, on crewed boats from 28-foot motor boats to luxury yachts and everything in between.

WHALE WATCHING

From mid-December to mid-March, whales hang out in the vicinity of Puerto Balandra and the beaches of Cabo San Lucas. All you have to do is get to the beach to admire them. From January to June, you can swim with whale sharks in the Bay of La Paz

GOLF

Los Cabos has no less than fifteen truly magnificent golf courses. Many resorts, such as the One&Only Palmilla, also offer golf lessons.

WHERE TO STAY

Los Cabos has a wide variety of highend accommodations, from casita rentals to ocean-view villas with private swimming pools to five-star hotels.

ONE&ONLY PALMILLA

Built in 1956, this sumptuous resort has lodged many Hollywood stars, such as Bing Crosby and former U.S. President Eisenhower. Overlooking the picturesque coast, all the rooms have a view of the ocean, top-of-the-line amenities and a butler service. The property is ideally located to take advantage of on-site and nearby activities (pool, spa, golf course, tennis, surfing, excursions, etc.)

MARQUIS LOS CABOS

This adults-only, AAA Four Diamond hotel is located on a private beach. Its 235 rooms and suites are stunning and the service is impeccable. Guests can participate in on-site activities such as dance classes and archery, and evenings are very lively. The hotel also has a large spa, three pools and five restaurants. It’s an ideal place for weddings.

 

WHERE TO EAT

Los Cabos has much to offer in terms of gastronomy. The area has excellent restaurants offering regional specialities as well as diverse and inspired cuisine. The quality of the wine also deserves mention.

HERE ARE OUR FAVOURITES:

• Acre (San José del Cabo)

• Toro Latin Kitchen and Bar (Cabo San Lucas)

• Don Manuel (Cabo San Lucas)

• Seared (hôtel One&Only Palmilla)

• Manta (Cabo San Lucas)

• Nido (hôtel Mar Adentro)

• Javiers (Cabo Azul Resort)

 

Texte : Diane Stehle