Latest news with #TomDixon
The Independent
02-06-2025
- Entertainment
- The Independent
The London hotel that offers the best of a cruise... without leaving dry land
There's a crystal jar of Werther's Originals on a marble-topped table in my river view suite at the Sea Containers Hotel. They are a tried and tested recommendation for curing sea sickness - although it's highly unlikely I'll be needing them. Swapping high seas for a high rise, I'm setting off for a voyage back through time on a ship that will never set sail. My ocean-worthy cabin is one of four new suites to recently open at London hotel Sea Containers. The Thames-side property occupies a wing of a 1978 block once homing a shipping firm. Originally modelled by British designer Tom Dixon to resemble a 1920s cruise liner, the hotel first launched in 2014 and was revamped and renamed Sea Containers five years later. Taking the nautical theme one step further, the new rooms take a deeper design dive into the golden era of transatlantic travel with each one inspired by a different era in time. I'm staying in the Edwardian cabin suite, a room decorated with the sort of walnut wood furnishings and plush velvet sofas that might have filled the Titanic. The mood, however, is reassuringly buoyant and the only blocks of ice on my horizon float in a wine bucket, currently keeping cool a bottle of Laurent-Perrier champagne. From my window, I watch mud larkers rummage for lost urban treasures on the pebbly Thames shoreline as commuters rush across the Millennium Bridge. All four suites – including the Deco Cabin Suite, Mid-Century Cabin Suite and Dynasty Cabin – were curated by Lore Group creative director Jacu Strauss. Neighbouring one another on the 15th floor, they huddle together in a private area at the end of a red-carpeted corridor and each has a strikingly individual door. Here's what I found when I stepped inside… Cabin design From a collection of 'impossible bottles' filled with galleons to dramatic oil paintings of ships tossed by waves, every surface of the suite celebrates maritime magnificence. Glossy kelp-green tiles decorate the cloakroom, while a leather-embossed writing desk with ink well and fountain pen provides the perfect tools to write a postcard home. Shipshape service Every night around 6pm, each suite receives a knock from a mixologist pushing a trolley stacked with all the ingredients to make a negroni – a welcome aperitif on wheels. Inside the room, bottles of spirits are lined up below shelves of crystal decanters, and fine wines fills fridges – all available for consumption as part of the room rate. More 'gifts' can be found inside drawers – candles, room sprays, relaxing balms and tinctures are all available to use and take home. Hotel extras Award-winning cocktail bar Lyaness and rooftop space 12th Knot are joined by an all-day restaurant with a fine bistro menu championing British ingredients such as Wye Valley asparagus, Porthilly mussels and Suffolk pork belly. Below deck, the Agua Spa offers a menu of treatments. A signature facial uses honey to deep cleanse and gentle massaging of cheeks, forehead and the eye area to achieve a glamorous glow.
Yahoo
20-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
I hung out in a VIP lounge on an adults-only cruise ship and saw how suite passengers who pay at least $8,000 vacation
I took an adults-only Virgin Voyages cruise and visited the ship's VIP lounge, Richard's Rooftop. The lounge is reserved for suite guests and has shaded beds, pools, and a full-service bar. On a seven-day Mediterranean cruise, suites for two cost between $8,000 and $20,000. On my first adults-only cruise, I got a taste of the star treatment. While lying on a spacious outdoor bed in the quietest corner of the top deck, servers brought me ahi tuna and frozen drinks as I gazed at the ocean. I was on Richard's Rooftop — the VIP lounge on board Virgin Voyages cruise ships. The adults-only cruise line's exclusive hideaway is reserved for passengers staying in suites — known as "Rockstars" by the cruise line. Prices vary depending on the ship, dates, and itinerary, but a representative from Virgin Voyages told Business Insider that the starting rates for entry-level suites for two on Mediterranean cruises in summer 2025 are around $8,000. The most expensive suites cost up to $20,000. While I didn't book a suite, I got access to the lounge during a seven-day Mediterranean cruise on Virgin Voyages' Valiant Lady in August 2023. To me, it was easily the most relaxing part of the ship. The rooftop lounge was at the front of deck 16. According to Virgin Voyages, the lounge was named for and inspired by founder Richard Branson. To enter, passengers scanned their room key cards. Inside, the space was filled with cabanas, pool chairs, two whirlpools, and several round loungers that felt like beds to me. Iridescent glass dividers added colorful hues to the white furniture. I thought this was a captivating detail by the designer, Tom Dixon. Each grouping of seats had a food and drink menu for the rooftop bar, and crew members served guests at their lounging spots. I ordered a tuna poke bowl and a non-alcoholic strawberry daiquiri. Both were refreshing and delicious. During my visits to the lounge, there was always enough empty seating to settle into a spot where I couldn't see or hear anyone else. The VIP lounge was quieter, emptier, and more shaded than the outdoor communal spaces for all passengers. The pools were crowd-free, and the service was more personal. Crew members checked in with guests often to see if they wanted more refreshments. With a more peaceful, private vibe than the rest of the pool deck, Richard's Rooftop was the only place on the ship where I could lie in the sun and feel like I was in bed simultaneously. That made it the most relaxing part of the whole cruise. Next time I cruise with Virgin Voyages, I'll consider upgrading to a suite. Read the original article on Business Insider
ME Construction
06-05-2025
- Business
- ME Construction
Mr. Eight Development unveils second UAE project on Dubai Islands Villa del GAVI
Property Mr. Eight Development unveils second UAE project on Dubai Islands Villa del GAVI By To maintain its standards, Mr. Eight Development has also established a dedicated service management company, overseeing every aspect of the resident experience Developer Mr. Eight Development has announced the launch of its second residential project in the UAE – Villa del GAVI, located on Dubai Islands. Building on the success of its debut project, Villa del DIVOS, Villa del GAVI continues the brand's mission to redefine beachfront living through design and curated luxury. Villa del GAVI offers 87 residences, ranging from two- to four-bedroom apartments, including three bedroom and maid configurations. Every home of the 12-floor residential tower is designed to capture the Arabian Gulf through floor to ceiling windows, open concept living areas and private balconies with water views. Residences are outfitted with Italian Silver Travertine Stone Romano, Calacatta Viola marble, Fabel Casa kitchens and wardrobes from Italy, SMEG appliances and bathroom fixtures by British designer Tom Dixon. Residents will enjoy two infinity edge swimming pools, a Technogym fitness center, a private residents' clubhouse and a lobby showcasing furniture by Cassina, Minotti and lighting by Tom Dixon, FLOS and ZONDA. Signature accents include Lalique crystal installations and LASVIT glass artworks. 'Following the overwhelming success of Villa del DIVOS, we are delighted to introduce Villa del GAVI to the Dubai Islands. This new project is the natural next step in our commitment to crafting exceptional living spaces in Dubai's most sought-after locations. Villa del GAVI offers a unique opportunity to experience luxurious beachfront living with unparalleled amenities and we have already had considerable interest in the project with 38% of our units already reserved prior to the official launch. Notably, Villa del GAVI will stand out by offering exclusively two-bedroom residences and above. There will be no one-bedroom units in this development, as we are focused on creating more spacious, livable homes,' said Emils Daujats, Director at Development. The development is also located just 20 minutes from Downtown Dubai, the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) and the Dubai Mall, access to the city's business and entertainment hubs. The surrounding neighborhood includes private beaches, two championship golf courses, shopping mall and access to healthcare. Residents of Mr. Eight's Dubai Island developments will be granted membership to an exclusive Priority Club, which includes access to chauffeur driven Rolls-Royce cars, a Riva motorboat with captain, private golf carts and a menu of à la carte services, from in-residence spa treatments and personal training to housekeeping, childcare and 24-hour emergency maintenance. To maintain its standards, Mr. Eight Development has also established a dedicated service management company, overseeing every aspect of the resident experience. The project handover is scheduled for Q4 2027.
Khaleej Times
05-05-2025
- Business
- Khaleej Times
Mr. Eight Development announces the launch of Villa del GAVI, its second project on Dubai Islands
European developer unveils second UAE project as first project registers 80% units sold Mr. Eight Development, a leading European property developer with over two decades of expertise, has announced the launch of its second residential project in the UAE – Villa del GAVI, located on Dubai Islands. Building on the success of its debut project, Villa del DIVOS, which has seen remarkable demand with almost 80% of its units already sold out, Villa del GAVI continues the brand's mission to redefine beachfront living through timeless design and curated luxury. To celebrate the launch, Mr. Eight Development hosted a private unveiling event at Atlantis The Royal on May 3. The exclusive gathering welcomed Hollywood celebrities, industry visionaries, investors, and VIP guests, offering them a first look at one of Dubai Islands' most anticipated developments. Perfectly positioned on the Island's first coastline and just steps from pristine waters, Villa del GAVI offers 87 bespoke residences, ranging from spacious two- to four-bedroom apartments, including 3-bedroom + maid configurations. Every home of the 12-floor residential tower is designed to capture the tranquility of the Arabian Gulf through expansive floor-to-ceiling windows, open-concept living areas and private balconies with breathtaking water views. Villa del GAVI showcases exceptional interior craftsmanship and design collaborations. Residences are outfitted with Italian Silver Travertine Stone Romano, Calacatta Viola marble, Fabel Casa kitchens and wardrobes from Italy, high-end SMEG appliances and bespoke bathroom fixtures by acclaimed British designer Tom Dixon. "Following the overwhelming success of Villa del DIVOS, we are delighted to introduce Villa del GAVI to the Dubai Islands," said Emils Daujats, director at Mr. Eight Development. "This new project is the natural next step in our commitment to crafting exceptional living spaces in Dubai's most sought-after locations. Villa del GAVI offers a unique opportunity to experience luxurious beachfront living with unparalleled amenities and we have already had considerable interest in the project with 38% of our units already reserved prior to the official launch. Notably, Villa del GAVI will stand out by offering exclusively two-bedroom residences and above. There will be no one-bedroom units in this development, as we are focused on creating more spacious, livable homes. Villa del GAVI is crafted to provide not only a luxurious home, but an immersive lifestyle. Residents will enjoy two infinity-edge swimming pools, a state-of-the-art Technogym fitness center, a private residents' clubhouse and an artfully curated lobby showcasing furniture by Cassina, Minotti and lighting by Tom Dixon, FLOS and ZONDA. Signature accents like Lalique crystal installations and LASVIT glass artworks elevate the shared spaces into environments of elegance and inspiration. The development is also conveniently located just 20 minutes from Downtown Dubai, the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) and the iconic Dubai Mall, ensuring seamless access to the city's business and entertainment hubs. The surrounding neighborhood includes private beaches, two championship golf courses, a high-end shopping mall and access to world-class healthcare. Residents of Mr. Eight's Dubai Island developments will be granted membership to an exclusive Priority Club, which includes access to chauffeur-driven Rolls-Royce cars, a luxury Riva motorboat with captain, private golf carts and a menu of à la carte services - from in-residence spa treatments and personal training to housekeeping, childcare and 24-hour emergency maintenance. To maintain its world-class standards, Mr. Eight Development has also established a dedicated service management company, overseeing every aspect of the resident experience with precision and care. Residences at Villa del GAVI start from Dh3.6 million for a two-bedroom unit, three-bedroom units from Dh6.4 million and Dh9.5 million for four-bedroom layouts. The project handover is scheduled for Q4 2027. Mr. Eight Development is also offering flexible payment plan, allowing buyers to pay 35% during construction and the remaining upon handover.
Zawya
05-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Zawya
Mr. Eight Development announces the launch of Villa del GAVI, its second project on Dubai Islands
Dubai, United Arab Emirates: Mr. Eight Development, a leading European property developer with over two decades of expertise, has announced the launch of its second residential project in the UAE – Villa del GAVI, located on Dubai Islands. Building on the success of its debut project, Villa del DIVOS, which has seen remarkable demand with almost 80% of its units already sold out, Villa del GAVI continues the brand's mission to redefine beachfront living through timeless design and curated luxury. To celebrate the launch, Mr. Eight Development will host a private unveiling event at the Atlantis The Royal on May 03, 2025. The exclusive gathering will welcome Hollywood celebrities, industry visionaries, investors and VIP guests, offering a first look at one of Dubai Islands' most anticipated developments. Perfectly positioned on the Island's first coastline and just steps from pristine waters, Villa del GAVI offers 87 bespoke residences, ranging from spacious two- to four-bedroom apartments, including 3-bedroom + maid configurations. Every home of the 12-floor residential tower is designed to capture the tranquility of the Arabian Gulf through expansive floor-to-ceiling windows, open-concept living areas and private balconies with breathtaking water views. Villa del GAVI showcases exceptional interior craftsmanship and design collaborations. Residences are outfitted with Italian Silver Travertine Stone Romano, Calacatta Viola marble, Fabel Casa kitchens and wardrobes from Italy, high-end SMEG appliances and bespoke bathroom fixtures by acclaimed British designer Tom Dixon. 'Following the overwhelming success of Villa del DIVOS, we are delighted to introduce Villa del GAVI to the Dubai Islands,' said Emils Daujats, Director at Mr. Eight Development. 'This new project is the natural next step in our commitment to crafting exceptional living spaces in Dubai's most sought-after locations. Villa del GAVI offers a unique opportunity to experience luxurious beachfront living with unparalleled amenities and we have already had considerable interest in the project with 38% of our units already reserved prior to the official launch. Notably, Villa del GAVI will stand out by offering exclusively two-bedroom residences and above. There will be no one-bedroom units in this development, as we are focused on creating more spacious, livable homes.' Villa del GAVI is crafted to provide not only a luxurious home, but an immersive lifestyle. Residents will enjoy two infinity-edge swimming pools, a state-of-the-art Technogym fitness center, a private residents' clubhouse and an artfully curated lobby showcasing furniture by Cassina, Minotti and lighting by Tom Dixon, FLOS and ZONDA. Signature accents like Lalique crystal installations and LASVIT glass artworks elevate the shared spaces into environments of elegance and inspiration. The development is also conveniently located just 20 minutes from Downtown Dubai, the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) and the iconic Dubai Mall, ensuring seamless access to the city's business and entertainment hubs. The surrounding neighborhood includes private beaches, two championship golf courses, a high-end shopping mall and access to world-class healthcare. Residents of Mr. Eight's Dubai Island developments will be granted membership to an exclusive Priority Club, which includes access to chauffeur-driven Rolls-Royce cars, a luxury Riva motorboat with captain, private golf carts and a menu of à la carte services from in-residence spa treatments and personal training to housekeeping, childcare and 24-hour emergency maintenance. To maintain its world-class standards, Mr. Eight Development has also established a dedicated service management company, overseeing every aspect of the resident experience with precision and care. Residences at Villa del GAVI start from AED 3.6 million for a two-bedroom unit, three-bedroom units from AED 6.4 million and AED 9.5 million for four-bedroom layouts. The project handover is scheduled for Q4 2027. Mr. Eight Development is also offering flexible payment plan, allowing buyers to pay 35% during construction and the remaining upon handover. For more information and priority registration, visit:
