Originally a manor house, the Grand Hotel Son Net honours not only its own past, but also that of its legendary homeland, Mallorca. Each room and suite has been carefully restored and customised by interior designer Lorenzo Castillo to honour the island’s rich history. Each room tells its own story, from the influences of the Crown of Aragon to the Roman origins of the island.

The entire hotel is interspersed with ornate carpets, which are not only decorative elements, but also tell the story of Spanish carpet manufacturing from the Renaissance to the neoclassical era. Some of these are antique pieces, such as an opulent carpet from the Baroque era with motifs of flora and fauna.

The hotel lobby, inspired by the Gothic Belver Castle near Palma, transports guests back to the Renaissance era. The architecture is emphasised by the absence of unnecessary decorative elements, placing the focus on the solid stone floors, the vaulted ceiling and the white walls. The blue and green fabrics are inspired by the colours lapis lazuli blue and manganese green, which are fundamental to the furnishings of the Renaissance era.

“Castillo has created a harmonious mix between elegant design and a diverse cultural past”

The salon combines Mallorcan charm with baroque style. The striking vaulted ceilings, stone arches and wooden beams radiate the essence of a traditional Mallorcan palace and, together with the furnishings, create a real feast for the eyes. Elements such as two inlaid chests of drawers, typical Mallorcan landscape paintings and Chinese porcelain lamps create a relaxing overall atmosphere, while gold leaf ceiling consoles and wall ceramics recognise the island’s Arabic influences.

The hotel’s suites combine colourful and exotic fabrics and furniture specially designed for Son Net and are adorned with numerous paintings from the 18th and 19th centuries. The Grand Suite Maria de Napoles, also known as the “Pineapple Suite”, mixes American influences with Mallorcan flair. Its exotic furnishings include a breathtaking chest of drawers lined with real mother-of-pearl. The Grand Suite Jaime I, on the other hand, blends medieval elements with modern design.

The Grand Hotel Son Net is more than just accommodation – it is a unique journey through the history, art and culture of Mallorca. Each room tells an individual story that captures the essence of Spain’s cultural heritage. The Grand Hotel Son Net on Mallorca reopens after winter break on 01 March 2024.

More information about the hotel can be found here:

https://sonnet.es/de/

Der Beitrag A journey into the Renaissance – Grand Hotel Son Net Mallorca erschien zuerst auf Secret Classics.

The luxury hotel in Antibes on the Cote d’Azur is a place for people who appreciate the finer things in life. Nestled in 32 hectares of pine forest, the Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc epitomises luxury and beauty. Its majestic avenue, pool and lush rose gardens are not only an oasis of calm, but also a tribute to the French way of life.

A symbiosis of the French way of life and the casualness of Los Angeles.

The collaboration combines the classic elements of Sporty & Rich with the glamorous context of the French Riviera. From T-shirts to sweatshirts to striped pyjama sets and more, each piece bears the subtle signature of the Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc, be it through iconic symbols such as the buoy or the hotel crest. This collaboration is more than just a fashion collection – it is a union of two brands that share the same vision of elegance and well-being.

The Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc x Sporty & Rich collection 2.0 is available now, online at www.sportyandrich.com, in the hotel’s boutique or in selected retail shops.

Photos: Sporty & Rich

Der Beitrag Sporty & Rich meets the Hotel du Cap Eden-Roc for the second time erschien zuerst auf Secret Classics.

Both companies share a history of visions and the realisation of dreams. Back in 1948, the design duo Charles and Ray Eames submitted their pioneering chair with a one-piece seat and backrest to the prestigious “Museum of Modern Art” competition. Meanwhile, Ferry Porsche and his team were designing the legendary Porsche 356 “No. 1” roadster. This creative symbiosis marked the beginning of two extraordinary success stories.

“This creative symbiosis marked the beginning of two extraordinary success stories.”

As part of the exclusive partnership for the “Porsche Pepita Edition by Vitra”, Vitra is now producing three limited edition chairs for Porsche. The striking Pepita pattern, consisting of small checks connected by diagonal stripes, adorns the surface of these pieces. Originally available for the first time in 1965 as official equipment for the Porsche 911, the Pepita pattern has developed into a timeless classic that has also celebrated its renaissance in the Porsche 911 Sport Classic (2022).

The “Porsche Pepita Edition” includes the iconic “Eames Plastic Side Chair Pepita Edition”, the elegant “ID Trim L Pepita Edition” and the compact “Petit Repos Pepita Edition” armchair. The latter two were designed by the renowned Milanese architect and designer Antonio Citterio.

The partnership is accompanied by a creative campaign designed by the internationally renowned fashion photographer and filmmaker Jonas Lindstroem. The use of the Pepita pattern as a graphic element creates fascinating motifs that emphasise the connection between Vitra furniture and Porsche models.

Behind the scenes of the photo shoot, the exquisite details of the “Porsche Pepita Edition by Vitra” were revealed. Each piece of furniture demonstrates the highest level of craftsmanship and quality of workmanship. The “Eames Plastic Side Chair Pepita Edition” impresses with its ergonomic design and the elegant combination of original Porsche Pepita fabric and white shell. The “ID Trim L Pepita Edition” office chair not only offers maximum seating comfort, but also an outstanding design with adjustable lumbar support and embossed historic Porsche crest. The compact “Petit Repos Pepita Edition” armchair impresses with its comfortable upholstery and the design accents of the double stitching.

Sales of the “Porsche Pepita Edition by Vitra” will start on Monday, 22 April 2024, at 9 a.m. CET exclusively online in the Porsche Shop and in the Porsche Design Online Shop.

Behind the scenes:

Photos: Porsche & Jonas Lindstroem

Der Beitrag Fusion of luxury and tradition: Porsche x Vitra erschien zuerst auf Secret Classics.

Things become special when they tell a story, a story both about the object itself and about its creator, his inspiration and the message he wants to share about it. In a world with ever shorter innovation cycles and advancing technology and digitalisation, we often seem to lack the peace and imagination to reflect on the past, rediscover its beauty and think creatively about how to preserve it – in other words, to “revive” the old.

This is what happened with a very unusual architectural project by the family business brüderl. and their conversion of a historic water tower into a modern, stylish and emotionally captivating residential building with a unique flat in the heart of Upper Bavaria. Built in the 1950s, the water tower in Pirach near Traunreut has been the object of company founder Schorsch Brüderl’s dreams and fantasies since his earliest childhood.

A place of ideas & inspiration

When the tower lost its function and was sold, he took the opportunity to create something very special in a unique location. The water reservoir, revitalised with a keen eye for old building details, became a living reference for visionary design and construction. As a think tank for planners, as a holiday home and as a place of strength and residence, the wealth of ideas and passion of the creator can be experienced here and the surroundings, tranquillity and exclusive ambience can be enjoyed.

With a height of over 30 metres, the Pirach water tower is visible from afar, but also offers a fantastic view of the Bavarian Alps. Its outer façade, made of staggered steel panels, reflects the surroundings so that they seem to become one with the building – giving it a visual lightness despite its size.

https://www.wasserturm-pirach.de/

At Secret Classics, we regularly introduce people and companies who share our common passion and fascination for history, design and automotive history in their work, their products or their philosophy and passion. Classic vehicles are a symbol of aesthetics, inventiveness and the desire to create something unique and special. And so brüderl. has also anchored the task of preserving the old, creatively rethinking it and putting it to new use in its corporate philosophy. The motto “completely. or not at all”, which expresses the passion, but also the promise to passionately pursue the philosophy and implement it on a daily basis, fits in with this.

Cars as an impulse for architecture

This way of thinking is also reflected in a very private passion of the partners and managing directors Schorsch, Georg and Benedikt Brüderl: their love of classic cars. The hand-picked collection of special treasures – like the listed and revitalised buildings – preserves the old and flourishes under the owners’ careful care. Architecture and classic cars – both passions share a passion for aesthetics, quality and the extraordinary. The shapes, curves, details or history of the vehicles often provide the impetus and inspiration for new architectural projects and ideas – but above all the pleasure of enjoying moments of freedom, lightness and joy in something unique.

If you would like to find out more about the creators, the Chiemgau-based company brüderl. and the various projects, you will find further interesting insights and contact details on the website. As a family business with over 100 employees, the brüderl. Group, which unites project development, architecture, interior design and an in-house furniture manufactory under one roof, follows the vision of thinking architecture in a visionary way and realising the values of tradition, sustainability and exclusivity holistically.

Curious to find out more? Then click here!

https://www.bruederl.de

Photos by Statement Media https://www.statementmedia.eu/

Der Beitrag Passion meets creativity – creating something special erschien zuerst auf Secret Classics.

Earlier this year, PUMA unveiled a comprehensive collaboration with F1, establishing itself as the exclusive licensee and trackside retailer for all races. With an extensive history and legacy in the sport, PUMA is keen to investigate the influence that streetwear and fashion can exert beyond the confines of the race track. A$AP Rocky, with his fashion acumen, distinctive style, and cultural expertise, is set to bring a fresh perspective to the expanding F1 audience.

Rocky’s impact on the brand will be introduced gradually, with an initial emphasis on an incubator-style strategy referred to as “in the lab.” This approach signifies the commencement of a creative exploration to determine the direction in which he can take the category. Throughout the remainder of the year, Rocky will leave his imprint on visuals and video content for the brand. His inaugural campaign, where he has been working behind the scenes as both creative director and producer, delves into the car culture in America and its influence on streetwear and fashion.

Later this year, Rocky will unveil an exceedingly limited PUMA x F1 collection. This collection of apparel and accessories offers a glimpse into a series of capsule collections planned for 2024, coinciding with prominent F1 races.

In 2024, Rocky will channel his creative energies towards multiple Grand Prix races, commencing in Miami. These collections have been conceived and designed by him in collaboration with PUMA and the F1 teams. He will curate activations at each race and assume the role of creative director for all marketing endeavors associated with these collections.

By 2025, Rocky envisions a more profound immersion in the holistic creative design process for all PUMA x F1 products, spanning from racewear to fanwear to fashion. He will persist in participating in marketing activities as part of an ongoing initiative to introduce innovation to the category through inventive product design and marketing concepts. Together, Rocky, PUMA, and F1 are enthusiastic about broadening their audience and establishing connections between streetwear, fashion, and the sport itself.

“Working with brands as iconic as PUMA and as innovative as F1 has been genuinely inspiring. When the world witnesses what we are accomplishing, I believe a transformative shift will occur in how brands approach risk-taking and collaboration with diverse creatives.” – ASAP Rocky

“We couldn’t be more thrilled to collaborate with A$AP Rocky,” expressed Maria Valdes, PUMA’s Chief Product Officer. “He possesses incredible talent, profound thoughtfulness, and a deep investment in our brand. He will showcase his vision through elevated F1 race capsules globally, attracting new audiences and undoubtedly disrupting the track. In the future, his influence will extend to the broader PUMA x F1 range, continuing to propel sport and culture forward.”

“This announcement signifies a remarkable milestone in our partnership with PUMA,” declared Oliver Boden, Head of Licensing and Gaming at F1. “A$AP Rocky’s creativity and dedication to innovation align perfectly with F1’s vision and evolution in apparel. We anticipate collaborating with him to design and curate the PUMA and F1 range, seamlessly integrating F1 into new cultural and lifestyle spaces.”

Further details about his 2023 and 2024 collections, as well as retailer availability, will be disclosed shortly.

Der Beitrag PUMA NAMES A$AP ROCKY CREATIVE DIRECTOR FOR PUMA X F1 PARTNERSHIP erschien zuerst auf Secret Classics.

A new chapter in the world of water sports vehicles was recently written on picturesque Lake Garda in Italy. The sports car manufacturer from Zuffenhausen and the Frauscher boatyard jointly unveiled the first production model of the 850 Fantom Air electric sports boat. This impressive watercraft was developed in close cooperation and presents a remarkable combination of Porsche’s future electric drive technology and Frauscher’s expertise in boat building.

The Frauscher x Porsche 850 Fantom Air benefits from Porsche’s proven drive technology, originally designed for road vehicles and now optimised for the maritime world. It uses components from the Premium Platform Electric (PPE), which also serves as the basis for the new upcoming Porsche Macan. These include a latest-generation permanently excited synchronous electric machine (PSM) with a peak output of 400 kW, which drives the Z-drive via a shaft. This positioning is intended to ensure comfortable handling, even at higher speeds and in waves.

The eFantom offers a choice of cruising modes, including Docking, Range, Sport and Sport Plus, which adjust throttle response and speed limits. At an optimal cruising speed of 41 km/h, the boat can cruise for about an hour or up to 45 kilometres on a single battery charge. In displacement mode, ranges of over 100 kilometres are even possible. In the Porsche-typical Sport Plus mode, even speeds of up to 85 km/h are possible.

Porsche’s 800-volt technology enables fast charging at DC fast-charging stations with over 250 kW of direct current, allowing the battery to be charged from 10 to 80 per cent in less than 30 minutes. Alternatively, the boat can be charged at conventional AC charging stations available in most harbours.

“The steering wheel makes the view of the interior almost a little surreal with all the water around it.”

The design of the eFantom reflects Porsche’s signature in many ways, especially in the steering position, which consists of a frameless windscreen made of tinted acrylic glass and a high-gloss black instrument panel. The steering wheel makes the view into the interior seem almost a little surreal with all the water around it. The Porsche GT sports steering wheel, however, is specifically designed for nautical use and adds an elegant touch. The seats in the eFantom are inspired by the sports seats in Porsche road cars and offer great lateral support.

The boat is based on the day cruiser Frauscher 858 Fantom Air and offers space for up to nine passengers. It has a large sunbathing area with two comfortable cushions on the stern bathing platform, cushioned benches in the bow area and two folding biminis for shade on sunny days. The luxurious equipment also includes a high-end audio system, an echo sounder, a chart plotter, a bow thruster, an electric stainless steel anchor and much more. Customers can customise their boat, including colour choices for upholstery, hull and deck.

The official world premiere of the Frauscher x Porsche 850 Fantom Air is planned for January 2024 at the “boot” trade fair in Düsseldorf. Porsche and Frauscher are initially planning an exclusive First Edition of 25 boats, which can be ordered through Frauscher from a price of 561,700 euros net and are to be delivered to the first customers as early as next year.

Der Beitrag Frauscher 850 Fantom Air – the electric boat with Macan technology erschien zuerst auf Secret Classics.

The collaboration combines TAG Heuer’s chrono expertise, Bamford’s masterful customisation and the artistic vision of Mai Ikuzawa, daughter of Japanese racing legend Tetsu Ikuzawa. The result is a timepiece that pays homage to that very racing driver – we take a closer look at the watch.

The Carrera Chronograph is a mix of sportiness and elegance. It impresses with its white dial with opal finish in a robust steel case. Rhodium-plated indices filled with luminescent material bring a touch of chrome to the dial, while the hour and minute hands are finished in red lacquer and blend seamlessly into the overall colour scheme. At the 3 and 9 o’clock positions on the dial are two contrasting chronograph counters, complemented by an eye-catching chapter ring, a striking central seconds hand and eye-catching co-branding in a bright shade of red.

The 42 mm wide timepiece is powered by the in-house calibre Heuer 02, an automatic chronograph movement with a remarkable power reserve of up to 80 hours when fully wound. The timepiece is accompanied by a matching three-row steel bracelet and an additional fabric and Velcro strap with the unmistakable “Team Ikuzawa” logo print.

The TAG Heuer Carrera Chronograph x Team Ikuzawa by Bamford is available at a price of EUR 6,100. Visit the Tag Heuer and Bamford websites for more information on availability.

Photos: Tag Heuer

Der Beitrag Tag Heuer x Team Ikuzawa erschien zuerst auf Secret Classics.

Art + Futura = Artura

In the run-up to the project, Cevin Parker travelled to England to the McLaren Technology Centre to meet up with the designer of the McLaren Artura, among others. Parker’s thinking and use of new technologies for his art were among the decisive factors for the collaboration with the British sports car manufacturer. Parker’s design language is a perfect match for the McLaren ethos.

The result: a striking, luminous foiling that captivates through the symbiosis of violet and yellow colouring. The two colour worlds are combined with Cevin Parker’s characteristic “colour splash”, which once again adds the colours orange, red, pink and even blue to the Artura’s colour palette.

Its colour scheme (…) symbolises creativity, individuality, energy and optimism, all synonyms that reflect the Artura’s dynamic personality.” – Bastian Luehmann, Market Director Central Europe, McLaren Automotive.

“Progress shows us goals that we want to achieve.”

– Cevin Parker

“I’m really excited about the opportunity to work with McLaren and bring together two of my biggest passions: Art and supercars. I’m excited to see how the public will react to this project.”

– Cevin Parker

The artistic collaboration between McLaren and Cevin Parker expands the boundaries of creativity and seamlessly connects the world of supercars and art. In this way, the Englishmen succeed in opening a new chapter in the world of automotive art. The McLaren Artura by Cevin Parker will be on display at various events throughout the year at McLaren dealers and at the ART Basel Miami, for example.

Photos: Robert Schlesinger

McLaren Artura

Engine: 3.0L V6 Bi-Turbo + Electric engine
Power: 680 PS @7,500 rpm
Weight: 1498 Kilogramm
Acceleration: 0-100 km/h in 3.0 s
V-Max: 330 km/h

Der Beitrag The 1 of 1 McLaren Artura by Cevin Parker erschien zuerst auf Secret Classics.

We look back at the most exciting collections and pieces of the last 5 years of “L’Art de L’Automobile”.

1. CRASH TEST CENTER /JAN 2018

“there’s a waiting list of people who wants to crash the car (..)”

… Arthur Kar replies to Bella Hadid’s question if she can crash the Lamborghini Diablo.

In early 2018, Arthur opened the exhibition “Crash Test” to mark the release of the collection at the time. The T-shirts came in short- and long-sleeved variants, with the former featuring “Crash Test for Safety Step 1” printed on the back and the latter featuring the “Step 2” variant. Characteristically, both T-shirts had the yellow and black Crashtest logo printed on them.

2. CLASSIC GARAGE CREWNECK /NOV 2019

The black sweater with the boxy fit and the round neck, can be worn on both sides. The first wearing variant shows the typical lettering of the brand on the chest and the large, circular logo on the back. On it you can see a red Golf GTI MK1, which, as mentioned at the beginning, plays a big role in Arthur’s life. The inside version is more subtle, with just “KAR” lettering on the chest. Ribbed cuffs at the wrists and waist ensure a snug fit, while an oversized elastic band at the neck adds durability when putting it on and taking it off.

3. LART DREAM KAR GRAPHIC TEE /JUL 2020

The blue T-shirt comes with a large backprint on which the side profile of the legendary Ferrari Enzo’s can be seen. The typical lettering on the chest completes the top and literally just screams for warm summer nights.

4. L’ART DE L’AUTOMOBILE & GRASSI 10000 COLLAB.

GRASSI 10000 has selected and revisited basic fabrics from the archives of a company that has been making workwear since 1925, and made them the basis of a collaborative format with people from the creative field. Arthur is one of them, and in collaboration he brings out a yellow uniform consisting of a jacket and pants. The jacket features the brand’s signature logo on the back with the Golf GTI MK1, but this time in a plainer, black version.

5. L’ART DE L’AUTOMOBILE – VANS COLLABORATION / OCTOBER 2020

Once again, Arthur Kar has been inspired by the first-series VW Golf GTI and has collaborated with Vans to redesign the ERA VLT LX. The sneaker was available in black and white with lettering on the sole, as well as the L’Art logo on the outside.

Just in time for the 5th birthday of the L’Art brand a new collection comes online on the 04.04.2023 which is available for purchase at www.lartdelautomobilekar.com. It pays to be quick, because the pieces are often sold out within a couple minutes.

“To celebrate the 5th anniversary of Kar & the 10th of L’Art de L’Automobile, I wanted once again, to feature the one car that drew me into this world of automobiles: The Golf GTI. However, this time around, we have chosen to pay tribute to my father, the person who instilled in me this passion for cars, by taking the Golf “back home” and shooting our anniversary campaign in his garage. (…)” (Arthur Kar on Instagram)

Photos: L’Art de L’Automobile – Lookbooks

Der Beitrag L’Anniversary of L’Art de L’Automobile erschien zuerst auf Secret Classics.

But from the beginning. We take you with us to London, where Monclers’ first collaboration with a car manufacturer is presented. The unveiling of the art project will take place at none other than London Fashion Week. The setting is Moncler’s show, which is themed “Art of Imagination” and is a tribute to limitless possibilities of discovery. It aims to inspire the realization of one’s dreams, to grow beyond oneself and to break new ground. So far, so good.

Now about the setting on site: we dive into an imaginary world in the universe without gravity, impressively staged by starry rain, spotlights and smoke. You hear exciting music and look down on a large platform that resembles an icy landscape. A massive, flashing cage hides the contents. The mood is crackling, captivating, somehow otherworldly.

Then finally, the unveiling: the cage disappears, the music slows down and the work of art is revealed, slowly rotating on its pedestal. It reveals a fusion of design elements that at first seem very opposite. The hard edges of the legendary G Class, the first model from 1979, which stands for tradition and practicality like no other. The deliberate patina look and the dark, geometric outlines are striking.

Contrast Monclers’ style defining down jacket, made of soft quilted elements. It stands out with its silver reflective high shine.

The result is a charming work of art of two functional products, which in turn stand for iconic luxury and timeless lifestyle. Mercedes-Benz and Moncler share a passion for succinct design language and for thinking outside the box in terms of collaborations that like to turn heads.

An oversized zipper converts the coupe into a convertible

Gorden Wagener, Chief Design Officer Mercedes-Benz, speaks of “polarizing art to set new impulses and trends.” The sculpture is even more impressive from the rear. An oversized zipper converts the coupe into a convertible

All this with (almost) real dimensions: the work of art measures 4.6 meters long, 2.8 meters high, 3.4 meters wide (with wheels) and weighs 2.5 tons.

For me as a fashion enthusiast, this is an exciting collaboration that makes me want more. What’s next – an SLS AMG with a sneaker? The bottom line is that with the creation of the Project Mondo G, Mercedes has pushed the boundaries of traditional design and set out for new horizons in design and culture. The goal of bringing forth an unexpected creation from the combination of both brands has definitely succeeded.

Der Beitrag A G for the Moon erschien zuerst auf Secret Classics.