Norwegian studio Lund Hagem has designed a beautiful cabin nestled between two large boulders. The boulders create a natural formation making a protected area, of which the building is accessible from a small path cutting through a heavily vegetated area. The design of the cabin itself was also intended to extend its natural surroundings, with a unique precast roof that juts out from the side of the rock and angles down to meet the ground. This roof also doubles as a staircase that leads to the deck, while the interior and exterior are seamlessly integrated. Check out more sleek and innovative designs at Lund Hagem’s site.

SOURCE:DESIGNBOOM/ HYPEBEAST

ARCHITECTUREPasquale KaratzetzoMarch 8, 2016GENTLEMAN, THE GOOD LIFE, DESIGN, AESTHETIC, LUXURY, GENTLEMANS DIARY, GENTLEMANS DIARY MAGAZINE Comment

Inside Cai Guo-Qiang's New York Art Studio

Step into artist Cai Guo-Qiang’s personal headquarters in downtown New York City. Its recent renovation and expansion sees historic elements from the building juxtaposed against newer materials of translucent resin. A resin-built wall is the central spine of the building and not only distributes natural light to multiple studios but references Cai’s work of unfolding different scenes on a common space. On the cellar level, we see a library, filled with the artist’s collection of publications, and a traditional tea room for reception. The building is a masterful site-specific approach to the cultural backdrop of Cai’s artwork. Get more information about the artist here.

Source: ARCHDAILY

ARCHITECTUREPasquale KaratzetzoFebruary 9, 2016GENTLEMAN, GENTLEMANS DIARY, GENTLEMANS DIARY MAGAZINE, DESIGN, AESTHETICComment

The Djerassi Resident Artist Program

The Djerassi Resident Artist Program is tucked into the Woodside, CA’s Bear Gulch, providing writers and creatives alike with an oasis of privacy. The Diane Middlebrook Studios (informally known as the Writers Cabins) offer the ultimate remote hideaway — free of technology, Internet, social media and distractions. The four units face South-west with breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. The units also feature private balconies, red cedar exteriors and a steel canopied roof. For added privacy, the units are even skewed away from each other to allow shut-in novelists to work completely devoid of distractions.

If sustainability is more your thing, check out this house in the hills of Mexico that creates the illusion of living amidst the forest.

Photographer:CSS Architecture

ARCHITECTUREPasquale KaratzetzoFebruary 9, 2016DESIGN, AESTHETIC, ARCHITECTURE, GENTLEMAN, GENTLEMANS DIARY, GENTLEMANS DIARY MAGAZINEComment

Kloof Road House by Nico Van Der Meulen

South African design firm Nico Van Der Meulen completed a project located on a lush corner of a nature reserve in Johannesburg. Named “Kloof Road House,” the structure was designed with the aim of creating a family-oriented environment, integrating both the indoors and outdoors. Maximizing views to the north, the house has floor to ceiling windows and doors that open up to the outside in every room. Steel, glass and concrete comprise of most of the structure, while black morphed cladding wraps provide a stunning structure in the exterior, translating to its interior aesthetic as well.

ARCHITECTUREPasquale KaratzetzoSeptember 19, 2015DESIGN, AESTHETIC, GENTLEMANS DIARY, GENTLEMANS DIARY MAGAZINEComment

Apple's Own Jony Ive Helps Design New Brussels Store Interior

Apple’s own Jony Ive has lent a helping hand in the design of the company’s newest store, located in Brussels. The store’s guts consist of timber surfaces, natural finishes, and eight trees to complete the open-plan space. Being the chief design officer, it’s expected that the interior of Apple’s first Belgian store would be top notch. With assistance from co-designer Angela Ahrendts, the Brussels location will be open to the public on September 19.

Source: DESIGNBOOM/ HYPEBEAST

ARCHITECTUREPasquale KaratzetzoSeptember 19, 2015APPLE, DESIGN, AESTHETIC, GENTLEMANS DIARY MAGAZINE, GENTLEMANS DIARYComment

Dior Has Opened a Café in Seoul

VIDEO DIARYPasquale KaratzetzoAugust 22, 2015VIDEO, VIDEO DIARY, GENTLEMAN, DESIGN, DIOR, AESTHETIC, GENTLEMANS DIARY, GENTLEMANS DIARY MAGAZINEComment

House Dornbirn by k_m architektur

Offering some of the most stunning views of the Rhine Valley, Lake Constance and the mountains of Varalberg imaginable is k_m architektur’s House Dornbirn. Constructed of locally-sourced timber, concrete, copper and glass, the beautiful family home — completed over the previous two years — sports a floating and cantilevered design that sees its roof canopy providing ample shade to the balcony beneath it while also protecting the home from the relentless summer sun. Furthermore, thanks to the predominance of the home’s timber, the meadow-set design naturally blends in with the surrounding environment and will age with time to merge with the surrounding trees even better yet. Inside, private and communal areas are clearly delineated with bedrooms and the like located on a top floor that opens up to a terrace — which encircles the entirety of the level — that offers expansive views of the landscape. Best of all, sustainable considerations — in addition to the local materials — include the likes of a solar-heated water system and geothermal heating.

Source: DESIGNBOOM/HYPEBEAST

ARCHITECTUREPasquale KaratzetzoJuly 6, 2015ARCHITECTURE, DESIGN, THE GOOD LIFE, LIFESTYLE, AESTHETIC, GENTLEMAN, GENTLEMANS DIARY MAGAZINE, GENTLEMANS DIARYComment

Casa Brutale Cliffside Concept by OPA

Billed as “a geometrical translation of the landscape” and “an uncladded statement on the simplicity and harmony of contemporary architecture,” OPA presents the ambitious Casa Brutale. Intended as an inverted nod to the infamous Casa Malaparte on the eastern side of the Italian island of Capri, the innovative wood, glass, and concrete design converges with the surrounding earth to offer stunning views of the Aegean from its cliff side setting. Marked by a crystalline glazed-bottom swimming pool on the rooftop as a poetic continuation of the vast blue skies and nearby sea — a design element that also exists to offer abundant natural light to dynamically illuminate the interior of the residence below — the conceptual home employs a massive monolithic glass facade to frame the beauty of the ocean views. As for the residence itself, 50 steps lead down to the entrance — an enormous rotating door of aged wood — while the bare concrete and wooden planks of the interior serve as a raw and unpretentious nod to the minimalism of the brutalist movement.

Source: DESIGNBOOM/ HYPEBEAST

ARCHITECTUREPasquale KaratzetzoJuly 6, 2015ARCHITECTURE, DESIGN, THE GOOD LIFE, LIFESTYLE, AESTHETIC, GENTLEMAN, GENTLEMANS DIARY MAGAZINE, GENTLEMANS DIARYComment

Bottega Veneta Pour Homme Luxury Shaving Collection

SIMPLICITY, CLARITY, STRENGTH

Bottega Veneta Pour Homme elicits a journey fusing rugged sensuality, subtle intellect, and raw intrigue that endures in the mind like a memory not soon to be forgotten. To mark the first anniversary of its signature men's scent, Bottega Veneta created the Luxury Shaving Collection, a proposal that offers an entirely new way to experience the unique fragrance.

Bottega Veneta Pour Homme is a fresh, intriguing and understated fragrance, one where distinctive Bottega Veneta notes of precious Labdanum, Fir Balsam and Bergamot blend into a sensuous leather signature with the power of to enchant. Woven with rare and noble materials that create an unforgettable, lingering masterpiece, the woody, aromatic scent takes us on an inspiring journey in time and place, and captures the essence of the Bottega Veneta man.

The new luxury shaving Collection incorporates an exfoliating scrub, a shaving cream, as well as an after shave lotion. Use individually with particular purpose, or combine the complementary products for the ultimate experience, using the collection as a whole to achieve the best results.

The Bottega Veneta Creative Director Tomas Majer Says, "There is something timeless and deeply personal about the ritual of shaving. The collection reflects Bottega Veneta's understand design aesthetic as well as an appreciation for this intimate masculine gesture."

So gentlemen take the opportunity to elevate your shaving process and own the new Bottega Veneta Luxury Shaving Collection as soon as possible.

THE GOOD LIFEPasquale KaratzetzoMay 17, 2015BOTTEGA VENETA, THE GOOD LIFE, LIFESTYLE, AESTHETIC, GENTLEMAN, GENTLEMANS DIARY MAGAZINE, GENTLEMANS DIARYComment

Saint Laurent Reopens Its Faubourg Saint-Honoré Flagship

The Saint Laurent flagship store in Paris recently underwent a significant renovation, representing a bit of a departure from the minimalist design aesthetic of most of its other retail spaces. The opulent space features the same black and white marble palette and chrome finishings seen throughout most of its stores, with added details in the form of Art Deco finishings and a collection of African masks. The space also acts as a design museum of sorts, with items from the permanent collection and accessories showcased throughout the space, along with furnishings by Jacques Adnet, Théo Ruth, André Sornay and Jacques-Émile Ruhlmann by Alfred Porteneuve. The store is located at 38 Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré, and would be worth a visit if you are in the Paris area.

ARCHITECTUREPasquale KaratzetzoMay 3, 2015SAINT LAURENT, YSL, DESIGN, ARCHITECTURE, THE GOOD LIFE, LIFESTYLE, AESTHETIC, GENTLEMAN, GENTLEMANS DIARY, GENTLEMANS DIARY MAGAZINEComment

24k Gold Xbox One by ColorWare

Because splashing gold over a Beats Pill and a PS4 controller wasn’t enough, the folks at ColorWare figured they might as well give the Xbox One the Midas touch. The company has released a limited edition version of the console that has been emblazoned with a pearl metallic white finish on the body and 24K gold accents located above and below the drive panel. Included with the system is an even more gilded wireless controller, as well as all the (non-gilded) standard accessories that comes with the original packaging. Only 50 of these consoles are available, so for those who have $1,199 USD to spare.

THE GOOD LIFEPasquale KaratzetzoApril 20, 2015XBOX, VIDEO GAMES, GENTLEMAN, THE GOOD LIFE, LIFESTYLE, AESTHETIC, GOLD, GENTLEMANS DIARY, GENTLEMANS DIARY MAGAZINEComment

"Art of the Italian Two Wheel" Vintage Motorcycle Exhibit in NYC

A collection of rare Italian motorcycles are going on display in New York City, courtesy of Stuart Parr. Parr is a designer, architect, collector and perhaps most well known as being the producer of Eminem’s 8 Mile, is now unveiling “Art of the Italian Two Wheel,” showcasing his own personal collection of motorcycles and street bikes. With an affinity for Italian builds hailing from the 1960s and 1970s, many of these motorcycles are considered top of its class and very rare. Renowned makers such as Ducati, MV Agusta, Laverda and Magni play a big role in the exhibit, unsurprisingly. But unlike normal collectors who treat their collections like gold, Parr actually rides all of his bikes in the streets of NYC. If you’re interested in vehicles and motorcycles, make sure to drop by the exhibition, open now.

Art of the Italian Two Wheel
285 Madison Avenue
New York, NY 10022

Source: SELECTISM/ hypebeast

WE LOVE ARTPasquale KaratzetzoApril 20, 2015ART, WE LOVE ART, EXHIBITION, MOTORCYCLE, GENTLEMAN, LIFESTYLE, THE GOOD LIFE, AESTHETIC, GENTLEMANS DIARY, GENTLEMANS DIARY MAGAZINEComment

First European Bentley Suite, Located In Istanbul

St. Regis Hotels & Resorts has collaborated with Bentley to unveil the first European Bentley Suite located in Istanbul, Turkey following a successful inaugural Bentley Suite at the New York chapter. Inspired by the Continental GT range, the lush suite uses curvaceous silhouettes taken from Bentley’s signature design cues. All the aesthetics, from the expansive balcony overlooking Maçka Park – which also includes a breathtaking view of Istanbul and the Bosphorus strait — to the mirrored ceilings, marble floor inset, and veneer curved walls, were created with different parts of the luxury vehicle in mind. An epitome of opulent hospitality, the suite also features a handful of bespoke detailing, including a premium Bentley leather sofa, Bentley diamond upholstery in the champagne cooler, a special humidor, and custom carpeting throughout.

ARCHITECTUREPasquale KaratzetzoApril 12, 2015BENTLEY, ARCHITECTURE, DESIGN, INTERIORS, AESTHETIC, INSTANBUL, HOTEL, GENTLEMAN, GENTLEMANS DIARY, GENTLEMANS DIARY MAGAZINEComment

Villa Além in Alentejo, Portugal by Valerio Olgiati

Although nested a short drive from the Portuguese shores of the Atlantic Ocean, the Villa Além in Alentejo feels worlds removed from any body of water. There’s a certain dry charm about the home, which was designed by local architect Valerio Olgiati, and Olgati concedes that this idea of displacement was key in the blueprints. The home is meant to create a secluded garden, best evidenced by the five-meter concrete walls that surround the property. Almost of the Brutalist vein in terms of layout, the single-floor home features a canal-like pool, situated at the center of the rectangular plot. Juxtaposing open, airy spaces with an overarching enclosed aesthetic, check out the Villa Além above, then head here to check out more of Olgiati’s work.

ARCHITECTUREPasquale KaratzetzoApril 7, 2015DESIGN, ARCHITECTURE, GENTLEMAN, GENTLEMANS DIARY, GENTLEMANS DIARY MAGAZINE, THE GOOD LIFE, AESTHETIC, LIFESTYLEComment

DICK MOBY sunglasses handmade in italy

VIDEO DIARYPasquale KaratzetzoApril 7, 2015VIDEO, VIDEO DIARY, GENTLEMAN, LIFESTYLE, THE GOOD LIFE, AESTHETIC, GENTLEMANS DIARY, GENTLEMANS DIARY MAGAZINEComment

Carla Ridge Residence by McClean Design

Located along the prestigious Trousdale Ridgeline, the Carla Ridge Residence is a sprawling 24,424-square-foot contemporary home with spectacular views of Beverley Hills and all the way to the Pacific Ocean. The luxurious two-story residence has all the amenities you could ask for, include a two-story waterfall, interior courtyard, 12-seat screening room, billiard room, cigar lounge, gym, and a steam room. The upper level features 12-ft ceilings with glazing on all four sides letting the light permeate into the spacious living and dining interior, and also plays host to the master suite that equipped with a lavish master bathroom. Marble floors extend out to the terrace with an infinity pool and spa area, while the outdoor kitchen is outfitted with a stainless steel grill and dining table. The lower level features additional guest suites and the wide array of facilities, which are all centered around the striking interior courtyard.

ARCHITECTUREPasquale KaratzetzoApril 6, 2015DESIGN, ARCHITECTURE, GENTLEMAN, GENTLEMANS DIARY MAGAZINE, GENTLEMANS DIARY, LIFESTYLE, THE GOOD LIFE, AESTHETICComment

Omega The Globemaster

New to Omega‘s Constellation family of timepieces is the Swiss luxury watchmaker’s Globemaster. Employing what Omega claims is its most advanced mechanical movement ever, the new design has undergone a brand new certification that goes beyond that of the usual COSC.

Boasting a 39mm case of stainless steel, 18 SEDNA gold, two-tone or platinum, the Globemaster makes use of a pie-pan dial along with a fluted bezel — the latter of which is perhaps a nod to the Constellations of the ’50s. The caliber 8900 can then be seen through the watch’s sapphire case back while a beautiful medallion — which depicts an observatory surrounded by eight stars as an homage to the steps of the METAS certification, as well as the eight chronometric records set by Omega throughout the 20th century — is set into the crystal. Finally, the watch is even water resistant up to 100 meters. Omega’s Globemaster will soon be available with prices starting around $7,700 USD.

Source: HODINKEE/ Hypebeast

THE GOOD LIFEPasquale KaratzetzoMarch 21, 2015OMEGA, WATCHES, GENTLEMAN, LIFESTYLE, THE GOOD LIFE, AESTHETIC, GENTLEMANS DIARY, GENTLEMANS DIARY MAGAZINEComment

Hermès Debuts the Slim d’Hermès, Its First Timepiece in 20 Years

Unveiled at Baselworld is Hermès‘ first foray back into timepieces in over 20 years. The French label is rolling out a range of unisex watches in three sizes — 39.5mm, 32mm and 25mm — clad in a variety of luxury materials and makes. With a stainless steel or rose gold casing upon clear sapphire crystal backs, finished with straps of either alligator, steel, calf or Barenia leather, the label is bringing its upscale luxury and quality to your wrists. There are also options to add diamonds to the front of the case for extra glamor. The overall look is extremely slim, with thin numerals and hands for a light piece. Designed by La Montre Hermès creative director Philippe Delhotal, the watches are made almost entirely in-house as Hermès partly owns the Swiss movement maker Vaucher, as well as case maker Joseph Erard and dial maker Natebar. The straps are crafted at Hermès’ factory in Brügg, Switzerland, with each piece assembled completely by hand. Prices start at $3,100 USD to $38,900 USD, and the full range will be available for purchase in October.

THE GOOD LIFEPasquale KaratzetzoMarch 21, 2015GENTLEMAN, THE GOOD LIFE, LIFESTYLE, AESTHETIC, HERMES, WATCHES, GENTLEMANS DIARY MAGAZINE, GENTLEMANS DIARYComment

Wieden & Kennedy New York

Advertising agency Wieden & Kennedy enlisted WORKac to redesign its three-storey office in Manhattan, New York. Making great use of the enormous urban space, the modern design aligns with the creative environment of the powerhouse ad agency. Standout structures include two circular staircases that connect the in-house library to the rest of the office. In an effort to blend functionality with design, the larger staircase located at the lower levels, aptly dubbed “Coin Stair,” doubles up as a seating area for a small auditorium or an open space to hold informal meetings. Click through the above images and head over to Frameweb for more on its in-depth case study on Wieden+Kennedy’s new office space, which comes out on July 1.

source and text:hypebeast

ARCHITECTUREPasquale KaratzetzoJune 12, 2014DESIGN, AESTHETICComment

Tonelli Design

To mark the 10th year of collaborations with industrial designer and interior architect Karim Rashid, Tonelli Design hosted an event at the ICFF 2014 in New York to celebrate the occasion. The Italian furniture brand presented a number of avant-garde yet elegant pieces, with a series of angular low tables, which feature overlapping surfaces constructed from smoked, frosted and transparent glass. The result in mind was to have the planes of glass appear to intersect to produce a very clever optical illusion. Head over to Tonelli Design to find out about more innovative interior design projects.

ARCHITECTUREPasquale KaratzetzoJune 11, 2014DESIGN, AESTHETIC, FURNITUREComment