October 2018 - LUXE MAGAZINE - Real Estate | Design

SAX sur le Fleuve – Living on the shores of the St. Lawrence

Enjoy the excitement of downtown, then come home to a peaceful haven of well-being in the evening—this is the promise of SAX sur le Fleuve, the new real estate project by Kevlar. Located on the shores of the St. Lawrence River in Old Montréal, these prestigious residences will welcome their lucky owners in the fall of 2019.

After Nun’s Island, Lebourgneuf and the Town of Mount Royal, it’s Old Montréal’s turn to receive a SAX project. Synonymous with luxury, comfort and superior quality, this brand always adapts to the market and the needs of buyers and the sector. “For this project, we wanted to offer all residents the magnificent view of the river. The complex was designed so that 90% of the apartments face the water,” explains Philippe Morin, Co-President of Kevlar. What’s more, “The river is so close that on the second and third floors you feel like you’re on a boat. Boating lovers will also be happy since the marina is connected to the residence.” While one side of the building faces the river, the other overlooks downtown through a huge glass façade.

An oasis of peace just steps from downtown

Located at the end of Port-de-Montréal Street, SAX sur le Fleuve will offer unparalleled privacy. “The two paths that run along the residence are virtually private. But if owners feel like participating in the excitement of downtown, it will be easy. Shops, restaurants, cinemas and museums are accessible in just a few minutes. “Residents will benefit from the best of both worlds: a very private home just five minutes from the action,” says René Bellerive, President of Kevlar.

Inviting shared spaces

This residential haven of peace also provides access to shared areas. The second floor of the building will have several common areas (swimming pool, patio and outdoor gardens), inviting residents to meet in a friendly and elegant atmosphere.

With the launch taking place October 4, 2018, and move in being planned for the fall of 2019, sales are going well. Given the high quality of the residences and their large surface area (from 1,200 sq. ft. to 3,000 sq. ft.), developers don’t expect to deal with first-time buyers. “The same philosophy is behind all Kevlar’s projects: Rethink real estate. With SAX sur le Fleuve, this is especially true. I think we’ve found a formula that corresponds perfectly to the sector’s needs,” concludes Morin.

Overview

49 1,200 sq. ft. to 3,000 sq. ft. units, including five apartments with patios
Prestigious residences starting at $846,000, taxes included
82 indoor parking spaces
Two elevators
Entrance hall with lobby
Smart access control
Patios and gardens with fireplace
Heated outdoor pool
Indoor gym and yoga space overlooking the city
Fitness area with specialized equipment on the outdoor patio
Soundproofing and top-quality materials

“The complex was designed so that 90% of the apartments face the water.” — Philippe Morin, Co-President of Kevlar

saxsurlefleuve.com

Text: Diane Stehle

Royal Quai – Luxury at the water’s edge

Located in what was once the McConnell Woods on a huge estate on the banks of the Lake Saint-Louis in Dorval, the Royal Quai residences will offer an unparalleled lifestyle. Ten of them will have direct access to the lake, allowing boat lovers to own their own private docks. Delivery scheduled from late 2019.

“It’s a unique and very special project,” says Paolo Presti, Vice President of Presti Homes and Developments, the real estate company responsible for the design and construction of Royal Quai. “It’s rare to find a building plot in the West Island located directly on the waterfront, especially one of this size. The region is beautiful,” he says.

Hence, future owners will enjoy an exceptional environment, in an oasis of privacy with peaceful nature surroundings, a stone’s throw from the water and its soothing presence. Built in perfect harmony with this setting, the 31 luxury residences will each be a haven of peace and serenity. Designed with the best materials, with huge windows, they will offer unparalleled comfort and a breathtaking view of the lake. For each residence, a swimming pool and well-maintained landscaping will make every summer a delightful experience.

Energy-efficient homes

Of course, Presti Homes and Developments is not new to all this. Specializing in customized prestige homes, this family business has acquired a solid reputation, in just over 16 years, for the quality of its superior energy-efficient buildings. As a member of the Novoclimat and Netzero programs, it has won eight Domus trophies.

The Royal Quai project simply confirms this expertise while respecting the environment and helping to reduce the carbon footprint.

In the heart of nature and yet so close to the city

With no obstructions to visibility and idyllic views of sunrises and sunsets, these majestic residences will transport us into a bubble of privacy, where time and the proximity of downtown Montréal, just 20 minutes away, are forgotten. Closer still, the Royal St. Lawrence Yacht Club and chic golf clubs are on hand for discreet socializing.

“The 31 building lots of the Royal Quai project will be on sale very soon. We already have a few people interested, including one who wants to combine two lots for an ambitious development,” says Paolo Presti.

Up to 31 building lots available
10 lots with direct access to Lake Saint-Louis
21 houses with access to water
20 minutes from downtown Montréal
10 minutes from Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport
Nearby: yacht club, golf clubs, parks, skating rink, tennis courts
Novoclimat and Netzero certified homes
Outdoor swimming pools, landscaping
From $2M
Delivery scheduled from late 2019

info@presti.ca

450 663-9486

www.royalquai.com

Opening of the sales office in spring 2019

Text: Diane Stehle

Rio de Janeiro – The Marvellous City

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil’s second most populous city after São Paolo, is renowned for its magnificent beaches. However, this metropolis is far from being just a beach destination; from its Christ the Redeemer statue to its famous carnival, Rio de Janeiro is overflowing with treasures to discover. Here are some must-see attractions.

Corcovado (statue of Christ the Redeemer)

Christ the Redeemer, by French sculptor Paul Landowski, is the symbol of the city and a designated historical monument. Located on Mount Corcovado, it offers a breathtaking view of Rio and its beaches. It is best visited on a cloudless day. After climbing the 222 steps leading up to the statue, your efforts will be rewarded!

Copacabana and Ipanema beaches

Ipanema is a spectacular playground with golden sand that welcomes young sports enthusiasts and leisure seekers. It’s also the birthplace of bossa nova. It is lined with luxury boutiques on one side and kiosks offering coconut water, caipirinhas and ice cream on the other. The curving Copacabana, one of the most famous beaches in the world, boasts a length of 4.5 km and is flanked by two historical forts. From dawn to dusk, this popular spot bubbles with activity. Although Ipanema has taken over as the city’s most prestigious beach, Copacapana has one of the locals’ favourite promenades.

The Santa Teresa district

Artists’ studios, museums, cafés and boutiques complement this district’s seductive bohemian charm. Explore its cobbled streets and admire its 19^thcentury houses while enjoying a stunning view of the bay. There’s no better way to get there than the historic Bondinho (tram)!

Tijuca Forest

With its vast, peaceful spaces, hiking trails, waterfalls and views of the city, this 3,200 hectare urban tropical forest is a true oasis just steps away from the hustle and bustle of the city. It is home to birds, snakes, iguanas, ocelots, sloths, agoutis and howler monkeys. Take a guided visit or explore it alone, on foot or by car.

Sugarloaf Mountain

A true symbol of Rio, this 395 metre summit is accessible by cable car. The ride offers a stunning view ofthe city, the bay and the beaches. If you go as the sun is setting behind the hills and the city is gradually lit up from beneath, you will understand where Rio gets its nickname, cidade maravilhosa, the marvellous city.

The Rio Carnival

The Rio Carnival takes place over the four days preceding Ash Wednesday (in February) and culminates in a parade through the Sambadrome, an immense complex ten times larger than a soccer stadium. Surrounded by spectacular costumes and richly decorated floats, samba stars dance to the frenzied beat of the drums in front of thousands of people.

Rio’s historical centre

Rio’s historical centre offers an incredible mix of style and history: modern skyscrapers intermingle with the imperial palace and the baroque churches of the Praça XV. This area’s distinctive atmosphere is a perfect marriage of modernity and history. Take a walk in the pedestrian areas along Quitanda, Ouvidor or Carioca streets, which are bordered by boutiques, bars and restaurants. Visit the exciting Saara shopping district, then enter Rio’s cathedral to admire the colourful stained glass windows. Wrap up your excursion with a stroll over to the Arcos da Lapa aqueduct.

Text: Diane Stehle

The Crosby – Like a designer’s home

You can’t miss the Crosby Street Hotel, between Spring and Prince Streets in SoHo: a large cat sculpture by Botero stands outside the front entrance. It has panache, it sets the tone. Voilà! The Crosby is artsy without taking itself too seriously. And therein lies its charm.

Movie and drinks

People in the know often find their way to the Crosby Hotel on Sunday night for drinks and a movie. The luxury hotel has one of the most beautiful private screening rooms in the city, featuring bright orange Poltrona Frau leather seats, deep purple walls. It is incredibly stylish.

Before the movie, friends meet at the bar, a beautiful space, colourful and trendy, adorned with art like the rest of the hotel. The cocktails are great, bites delicious and the atmosphere bubbly. Hotel guests and New Yorkers sit side by side, it is hip and relaxing.

During the day, legends of the film world have been spotted there—Todd Haynes amongst them, sitting quietly, in a meeting. The Crosby attracts creative people. They feel at home here. And so it should be; the place is curated with intelligence and flair.

Two-bedroom Crosby Suite © Simon Brown

Art of living

Kit Kemp is the design director and part owner, so this is personal to her. There is no other hotel where the art and antique collection feels as omnipresent. You will find artwork in the spacious lobby, in the elevators, in all the bedrooms and event rooms, and in the bathrooms too! You’ll see playful dog art (the hotel is dog-friendly) and more abstract conceptual pieces like the kinetic clock downstairs. The art collection is intricately linked to the feeling of ease and luxury that instantly comes over you.

One of the most interesting spaces in the hotel is the Drawing Room. A gigantic portrait of a dog named Simone hangs over the fireplace next to a beautiful inlaid Indian cupboard and African sculptures. The modern sofas are deep and set around a table which looks like an ethnic art piece. The room opens onto the sculpture garden, a green paradise.

Crosby Street Hotel Screening Room © Simon Brown

Custom design

The idea of custom design is key for Kit Kemp. No two bedrooms or suites are identical in the hotel. Each expresses a unique sense of luxury, with gorgeous fabrics and furniture selected from around the world. The design choices are as beautiful as they are diverse, as contrasting as they are harmonious.

The building benefits from a perfect location in a hip neighbourhood. The floor-to-ceiling windows open on amazing views: roof gardens and other urban treasures. The top floors especially benefit from superb light and incredible vistas. This is where the hotel suites are located, each perfectly curated. Stay here, and feel like you are in a designer’s home.

www.firmdalehotels.com/hotels/new-york/crosby-street-hotel

Text: Barbara Stehle

Tribute to Joël Robuchon

On August 6, we learned of the death of a giant in the fine dining industry: Joël Robuchon. On top of being given more stars by Michelin Guides than any other chef in the world, named Meilleur Ouvrier de France and crowned best cook of the century by Gault & Millau, this exceptional chef was also an accomplished businessman. He had over twenty establishments around the world, including L’Atelier, which opened at the Casino de Montréal in 2016. LUXE magazine wanted to pay tribute to him one last time.

With 32 stars, Joël Robuchon was the most decorated chef in the world. As an ambassador of French gastronomy, he was committed to sharing his knowledge and making his recipes as accessible as possible. This is how he trained hundreds of young chefs and opened establishments all over the planet, in addition to having written culinary reference works and hosting several televisions shows.

Saint-Jacques (L’Atelier in Montréal)

The Forest (L’Atelier in Montréal)

L’Atelier

A seasoned businessman, he managed to create a fine dining empire, particularly with his L’Atelier restaurants. Working with the concept of making gastronomy welcoming, these establishments cook in front of customers. They charm palates all over the world, whether it be in Paris, Tokyo, New York, London, Hong Kong or Montréal.

Jean-Pierre Curtat, manager of L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon à Montréal, recalls when the chef was in Montréal for the opening of the new restaurant in 2016: “Joël Robuchon cared a lot about how visitors would perceive their experience. He would focus on the smallest details, not just meals but also lighting, decor, sound… He was a perfectionist who pushed everyone to do better. Some chefs focus on the kitchen while everything else is secondary. But to him, everything mattered. He put himself in the customer’s seat, from the first step in to the last one out of the restaurant.” He adds, “The product was very important to him. I think he managed to strip French cuisine of its stuffy side without ever compromising product quality.”

From Paris to Shanghai to Montréal, his techniques will continue to inspire chefs for generations.

L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon à Montréal

The restaurant located at the Casino de Montréal maintains Joël Robuchon’s legacy by presenting the chef’s iconic dishes, such as mashed potatoes, quail stuffed with foie gras and sea bream carpaccio, and by creating new recipes in the spirit of the brand. It offers refined and authentic cuisine that ingeniously brings together the flavours of exceptional products with great simplicity.

Text: Diane Stehle

Photos: © Courtesy of Loto-Québec

Humaniti – A prestigious residential concept with a human focus

COGIR Real Estate and DevMcGill have teamed up with the FTQ for a daring new project with a human focus—down to the very h shape of the building. Located in the International District, just steps away from Old Montréal and the Quartier des spectacles, the innovative complex highlights the human experience as the foundation of this “smart vertical community” in the heart of the city.

Sans titre-44

The new architectural landmark faces the gorgeous Place Jean-Paul-Riopelle. It is designed for five different uses, with 151 condos, 314 rental apartments, a hotel with 193 rooms under the banner of Marriott’s exclusive Autograph Collection, 57,000 ft² of office space and 17,000 ft² of commercial space that will include two restaurants.

“The varied use of the space means Humaniti offers a very different lifestyle from what’s considered the norm in Montréal and even in Canada,” explains Stéphane Côté, President of DevMcGill, a division of COGIR Real Estate. “We designed this project with the optimal well-being of each occupant in mind. Unlike some luxury residences that offer limited services, we wanted the entire design to put people first. We also wanted to simplify daily life for residents by providing access to hotel services. The condos are located near the hotel, encouraging interaction between the two as they both share the spa, pool and stunning terrace.”

Life at the top

The largest tower’s upper levels, from the 26^th to 39^th floors, are home to the condominiums. This ingenious placement gives residents a spectacular view of the city. Ten light-filled penthouses, two of which already have already been sold, make up the top three floors of the tower. The penthouses feature innovative layouts; are constructed with high-quality, environmentally friendly materials and top-end finishes; and boast a connected, smart environment. Every detail has been carefully thought out to create an exceptional living space that promotes the well-being of its residents.

Premium features for penthouse residents

Penthouse owners enjoy unparalleled comfort and a number of exclusive benefits. These special advantages include use of a shared Tesla Model S, Les Clefs d’Or concierge service, valet service and exclusive access to all hotel services: housekeeping, laundry service, gourmet meals delivered to their door and more. Humaniti will also have its own mobile app that residents can use to reserve services or activities at the complex. “We’re aiming for LEED and WELL certification. The first is the international standard for the design, construction and operation of sustainable, high-efficiency buildings, and the second is a construction standard based entirely on people’s health and well-being,” says Stéphane Côté. The H in Humaniti really does stand for putting the human element first.

The complex will open its doors in 2020.

SDB_cam002_review01

An overview of the penthouses

Floors 37, 38 and 39
Spectacular, unobstructed views
Private terraces for some units
Two indoor parking spaces
Double-sized storage space
Miele household appliances
Built-in dishwasher, refrigerator and wine cooler
Kitchen and bathroom cabinets with lacquered finishes
Quartz kitchen and bathroom countertops
Oak flooring with double-stick installation
Heated floor in the master bathroom
Use of a shared Tesla Model S
Les Clefs d’Or concierge service
Valet service
Humaniti hybrid bike provided to each penthouse owner with an individual storage space

Perks for penthouse owners for the first year

Exclusive membership to the restaurants and Humaniti spa
Preferential rates on hotel services (laundry, housekeeping, conference and banquet room rental)
Preferential rates on Roche Bobois furnishings

www.humanitimontreal.com

Text : Diane Stehle

Hotel Santa Teresa Rio MGallery by Sofitel

Overlooking the Guanabara Bay and nestled in the heart of Rio de Janeiro’s picturesque Santa Teresa neighbourhood, Hotel Santa Teresa Rio MGallery by Sofitel is a breath of fresh air where you can get away from it all. This tropical retreat features lush gardens, an expansive pool and romantic suites, all steps away from the bustling activity of Rio.

Located on an old coffee farm, Hotel Santa Teresa Rio MGallery by Sofitel maintains the original aesthetic charm of the location with the use of noble and ecological materials from Brazil, including tropical woods, burnt cement, and banana, buriti and bacaba fibers. Brazilian designers such as Sergio Rodrigues have had a role in adding a contemporary touch to the refined elegance of the hotel. The result is a welcoming design with a quiet atmosphere of well-being.

Featuring 44 rooms and suites with views of the gardens or the mountain, the hotel offers luxurious comfort with all the amenities, including a king-size bed, Nespresso machine, minibar, Wi-Fi and more. These premium features create the ideal setting for a relaxing evening after an adventure-filled day—or for an unforgettable wedding night.

The magnificent exotic gardens surrounding the hotel are enough to make you forget you are in the city. In the evening, you’ll want to take the time to be in the moment as you lounge by the pool and watch the sunset with a glass of caipirinha. Enjoy the ultimate in relaxation with a visit to the spa for a massage or clay treatment or a dip in the aromatic baths.

Bar and restaurant

The hotel’s restaurant and bar are favourite spots for locals and visitors alike. Looking out onto the magnificent Guanabara Bay, Restaurant Térèze infuses your dining experience with the spectacular flavours of modern Brazilian cuisine. Then head to trendy hot spot Bar dos Descasados to enjoy a drink with friends or someone special in a relaxed, intimate setting.

Sustainable philosophy

Groupe AccorHotels, MGallery’s umbrella company, has made efforts in recent years to implement sustainability measures, and Hotel Santa Teresa Rio MGallery by Sofitel embodies these same principles. Some examples include the hotel’s recycled wood flooring, its Planet 21 program—which encourages guests to re-use towels and sheets for the duration of their stay—and the use of recovered rainwater to maintain the garden. In 2011, National Geographic magazine included the establishment in its list of most environmentally responsible hotels.

If you’re looking for the perfect starting point to discover Rio, Hotel Santa Teresa Rio MGallery by Sofitel has everything you need for a memorable stay.

In brief

Located near all the city’s tourist attractions
Pool with a panoramic view
Bar and restaurant offering modern Brazilian cuisine
Luxury spa
Meeting room with capacity for up to 100 people
High-speed internet access throughout the hotel
Childcare services upon request
Valet parking
Event organization (weddings, business meetings)
Guided tours and custom workshops

www.santateresahotelrio.com

Under the Saint-Tropez Sun

Nestled at the very end of a peninsula, this little village of 4,500 people welcomes millions of visitors each year. Saint-Tropez has a unique magic that’s full of paradoxes: luxury and simplicity, tradition and modernism, culture and glamour…

WHAT TO DO

Take a stroll through the old port and the old town

After admiring the yachts and sailboats, take a walk along the narrow, picturesque streets of the old city. You’re sure to fall under its spell. Stop and have a drink on the patio of the famous Sénéquier cafe.

The Annonciade Museum

Discover the works of Fauvist, Nabi and Pointilist artists such as Signac, Matisse, Derain and many others.

The citadel and its museum

The citadel offers the most beautiful panorama of the Gulf of Saint-Tropez. It also houses Saint-Tropez’s Maritime Museum.

The beaches

Take the coastal path down to the legendary Pampelonne Beach, passing by the Bay of Canebiers and Brigitte Bardot’s famous property, Madrague.

Shopping

The most prestigious boutiques and designer brands (Dior, Gucci, Louis Vuitton) stand alongside the no less refined made-to-measure Tropéziennes sandals.

Specialties

Saint-Tropez would be nothing without its tarte tropézienne and Câlins de Saint-Tropez chocolates. Delicious!

WHERE TO EAT AND SLEEP

Saint-Tropez is overflowing with great restaurants and hotels. We have chosen three that are renowned for their food as well as their lodgings.

The Byblos hotel and its restaurant Rivea by Alain Ducasse

The hotel

Founded over 50 years ago, the Byblos and its night club, Les Caves du Roy, are intimately linked to the history and international renown of Saint-Tropez. Artists have chosen it for its out-of-the-way kind of beauty, and they like to party there. This five-star palace has 91 rooms, including 50 suites, all of which are cocoons of elegance and comfort made so that guests feel at home. Perhaps that’s how the Byblos sets itself apart. Luxurious but simple, the hotel gives its guests the feeling of being at home while still being watched over by its benevolent employees. It has two restaurants: one offers light poolside meals, while the other, Rivea by Alain Ducasse, offers gourmet dinners. The hotel also boasts a Spa by Sisley Cosmetics, a gym, a beauty centre, a Clefs d’Or concierge service that is accessible at all times, and most recently, a grocery store.

The restaurant

Vincent Maillard, disciple of Alain Ducasse and chef of Rivea, plays with the treasures of Provence and Italy to create cuisine that is full of refined flavour and made with the local ingredients that are in season.

www.byblos.com

The Château de la Messardière and its restaurant L’Acacia

The hotel

This five-star palace is located within a ten hectare private park that is also a bird sanctuary. The authentic castle was built in the 19^th century. Today, it offers 60 rooms and 57 suites with comfort and facilities worthy of its rank: indoor and outdoor pools, spa, boutiques, and more. The service is incomparable. Note that its two restaurants are open to the public.

The restaurant

L’Acacia alternates with panache between the great classics of French cuisine and Mediterranean creations full of flavour. The restaurant extends onto a vast terrace with a unique panorama of the Bay of Pampelonne.

The Althoff Hotel Villa Belrose and its Michelin-starred restaurant Le Belrose

The hotel

Located in Gassin on a 7,000 m² property of pine forest and landscaped gardens, the Florentine-inspired Althoff Hotel Villa Belrose offers a panoramic view of the Gulf of Saint-Tropez. This luxury hotel has 40 magnificent rooms and suites, a Michelin-starred restaurant, a beauty centre and a large heated pool. In this classic, welcoming atmosphere, the Clefs d’Or concierge service is highly personalized and accessible at all times.

The restaurant

Chef Pietro Volontè offers moments of pure pleasure with his modern Italian-influenced Mediterranean cuisine at Le Belrose restaurant. His talent has earned him a first Michelin star.

We would like to thank the Saint-Tropez Tourist Office for their collaboration, and particularly Sabrina Noto for her valuable help and kindness.

www.sainttropeztourisme.com

Text: Diane Stehle
Photos: Ville de Saint-Tropez © Jean-Louis Chaix – The Byblos hotel restaurant Rivea by Alain Ducasse © Adrien Daste – The Château de la Messardière © David Grimbert – The Althoff Hotel Villa Belrose in Gassin © 3 Mile