The Bardessono eco resort and spa is a luxury getaway in Napa Valley

EAST Barbados is an eco-luxury villa resort community situated on the rugged eastern coastline of Skeetes Bay, Barbados. It offers a tranquil and secluded experience, distinct from the more bustling western side of the island. The resort, a development by The Crane Resort, currently features 10 cliff-top villas, each equipped with a private infinity pool offering panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean. The aim is to provide guests with a sense of being completely at home and immersed in nature, away from the typical tourist crowds. The villas at EAST Barbados are designed for luxury and comfort, ranging from one to three bedrooms. Each villa includes a fully-equipped kitchen with modern appliances, a Smart TV, and a standalone roll-top bathtub. The two-bedroom villa described in the review features a master bedroom and a twin bedroom, both offering ocean views through floor-to-ceiling windows and sliding glass doors that open to the patio and pool area. The master bathroom is particularly notable, constructed from natural stone with sliding glass doors that allow for an almost-outdoor shower experience amidst tropical greenery. Complimentary toiletries and plush towelling robes enhance the luxurious feel. The outdoor area is a highlight, featuring an outdoor dining table, comfortable seating, sun-loungers, and a 37-foot infinity-edge pool, along with a smaller heated sun tub and a built-in barbecue. While the villas are well-suited for self-catering, guests have convenient dining options. The concierge service can arrange transport to a nearby supermarket. Alternatively, some villa packages include breakfast delivery, which can be pre-ordered via the resort's website or a QR code within the villa. Lunch and dinner can also be delivered from the various restaurants at the sister property, The Crane Resort, including Asian-fusion cuisine from Zen, Caribbean dishes from L'Azure, and Italian fare from D'Onofrio's. The breakfast menu caters to diverse dietary needs, including vegan and vegetarian options, and features locally sourced ingredients and fresh juices. The resort's location prioritizes peace and tranquility. While there is not much in the immediate vicinity, this contributes to its secluded charm. Guests are advised to have a car to explore the surrounding area or enjoy quiet strolls along the clifftops, which offer scenic views and occasional rainbow displays. A significant benefit is the complimentary shuttle service to The Crane Resort, approximately 15 minutes away, providing access to its three swimming pools, five restaurants, and popular beach, Crane Beach. This allows guests to enjoy the amenities of a larger resort while maintaining the privacy of EAST Barbados. In terms of value, villa rates start from $238 (approximately £188) per night for a one-bedroom, cliff-front villa, excluding taxes and fees, with rates varying seasonally. The resort is undergoing further development, with plans to add 20 new semi-detached Hillside Villas, available for both rent and purchase. Future enhancements include an organic greenhouse, a farm-to-table café, a destination spa, a rooftop restaurant and bar, a fitness center, tennis courts, hiking trails, and yoga facilities. This expansion aims to enrich the guest experience while preserving the resort's unique appeal as a tranquil retreat on the eastern coast of Barbados, offering a luxurious 'home away from home' with stunning Atlantic views. #BarbadosHolidays #LuxuryVillas #PrivatePools #CaribbeanTravel #EcoLuxury #TheCraneResort #BarbadosEastCoast #TravelReview #VacationRentals

Dawn Ranch, a 22-acre creative retreat in Guerneville, California, has undergone a significant transformation, re-emerging as a prominent wellness destination. The property, designed by Bridgeton Studio in collaboration with Brian Smith and Whitney Clark, builds upon the success of its sister property, Marram Montauk. The ranch's journey involved recovery from the 2019 floods and the acquisition of the neighboring Fern Grove resort, allowing for the expansion of its facilities to include a spa, a saltwater pool, and enhanced dining options. The philosophy behind Dawn Ranch centers on providing guests with an environment that fosters creativity and well-being. Bridgeton's Chief Executive Officer emphasizes the goal of enabling guests to explore new talents or hobbies through the property's natural beauty, luxurious accommodations, and curated experiences. This approach highlights a commitment to holistic guest enrichment, allowing for both relaxation and personal growth. Upon arrival, guests are greeted by a meticulously restored 1900s lodge, which serves as a central point for the ranch. The Lodge at Dawn Ranch, a new restaurant concept, is under the culinary direction of Chef Juliana Thorpe, who draws inspiration from renowned Argentinian chef Fernando Trocca's South American heritage. The menu focuses on vegetable-centric dishes with a global influence, prioritizing locally sourced ingredients, some of which come directly from the ranch's own Kitchen Garden. This emphasis on local and seasonal produce aligns with the wellness-oriented ethos of the retreat. The accommodations at Dawn Ranch consist of 81 renovated cottages and cabins, each designed to marry rustic charm with contemporary elegance. These spaces are the result of collaborations with Oxford Street Company, featuring an eclectic design aesthetic that incorporates functional textiles and bespoke furniture. The bathrooms are noteworthy for their serene green color scheme, complemented by brass fixtures and high-quality hair and body care products, creating a luxurious and calming atmosphere. A significant addition to the property is The Spa at Dawn Ranch. This wellness sanctuary is thoughtfully integrated into the landscape, preserving the owner's original dwelling while incorporating design elements reminiscent of European solariums and ancient public baths. The spa offers a serene environment for relaxation and rejuvenation, further enhancing the retreat's appeal as a comprehensive wellness destination. The overall design and offerings of Dawn Ranch reflect a cohesive vision to provide a unique and enriching experience for all its guests. #DawnRanch #BridgetonStudio #WellnessRetreat #GuernevilleCalifornia #LuxuryAccommodations #HospitalityDesign #SustainableDining #SpaDesign #RusticModern

Villa F, a luxurious hotel in Venice, Italy, transformed from a 16th-century palazzo, stands on Giudecca Island, offering views of St Mark's Square. Italian hotelier Francesca Bortolotto Possati oversaw its renovation, opening the property in 2011. The hotel became notable when it housed Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt during the filming of 'The Tourist' in 2010. The property is characterized by its extensive and exquisite gardens. Villa F comprises 11 suites, each uniquely named, with Residenza F being featured in the final scene of 'The Tourist.' Guests are provided with personal butlers, and the suites boast antique furniture, original frescoes, and Venetian terrazzo floors. The gardens are accessible to all guests, with the exception of the meditation pool, which is restricted to individuals over 18 years of age. While each suite includes a kitchenette, most guests opt to dine outside at the various establishments within Bortolotto Possati's Bauer group. These dining options include De Pisis, an establishment located beside the Grand Canal that serves Mediterranean/Asian cuisine under the direction of chef Hiraki Masakazu. Another option is L'Ulivo, situated at the Palladio Hotel, which offers a seasonal organic menu with seating either by its open kitchen or on a secluded garden patio. For a more elevated experience, Settimo Cielo, a rooftop lounge, provides panoramic views of the city and lagoon, making it a popular choice for breakfast. For drinks throughout the day, Bar Canale offers a lively atmosphere, with bartenders crafting bellinis as various crafts traverse the adjacent waterway. The B Bar is rumored to attract celebrities such as Daniel Craig, Al Pacino, Jeremy Irons, and Sting on weekends. To facilitate guest transportation, Villa F operates a solar-powered shuttle boat, available at all hours. #LuxuryTravel #VeniceHotel #VillaF #BauerGroup #CelebritySpotting #BoutiqueHotel #GiudeccaIsland #HistoricRenovation #FineDining

Casa Vendicari, a holiday home designed by architect Marco Merendi, has recently been completed on the southeast Sicilian coastline. Constructed in 2015, the residence utilizes local materials such as stone from Noto and lava stone sourced from Mount Etna, reflecting a neo-brutalist design aesthetic that harmonizes with the surrounding natural landscape. The architectural approach emphasizes a low-slung, expansive form that integrates with the dramatic setting, utilizing white paint and extensive glass to maximize natural light and airflow throughout the interiors. The living area is characterized by large sliding glass doors on two sides, which facilitate a seamless connection with the outdoors. The three en-suite bedrooms are designed with long, angular windows cut into the walls, providing illumination while maintaining privacy and a sense of enclosure. The villa's sleek, square design extends to its outdoor spaces, where a swimming pool is centrally positioned between two lounging areas. An arch in an extended wall frames the poolside, creating a distinct architectural feature. Adjacent to the pool area, a covered panoramic terrace hosts an outdoor kitchen and barbecue facility, complete with a lava stone dining table, ideal for al fresco dining. Casa Vendicari is situated within the Vendicari Nature Reserve, a protected area spanning 1,500 acres on the southeastern tip of Sicily. The property is enveloped by natural vegetation, including olive trees, prickly pears, and various native plants at the rear. The poolside offers direct views of the Mediterranean Sea and nearby salt lagoons, enhancing the retreat's connection to its coastal environment. The Vendicari Nature Reserve is renowned for its pristine beaches and serves as a crucial stopover point for migratory birds en route to Africa. The area attracts diverse avian species, with flamingos, herons, storks, and cormorants frequenting the reserve in autumn, while ducks, mallards, pintails, and terns arrive during the winter months. The villa is available for rent through BoutiqueHomes and can accommodate six guests, with rental rates starting from €5,500 per week. #HolidayHomeOfTheWeek #SicilianRetreat #Noto #MarcoMerendi #NeoBrutalism #VendicariNatureReserve #BoutiqueHomes #HolidayHomesItaly #IslandHolidayHomes

This Orono residence, crafted by Gordon James and designed in collaboration with Everson Architect, embodies the concept of bringing a luxury spa-resort experience directly into a family home. Situated on over 8 acres backing onto the Luce Line State Trail and a wetland preserve, the 6,540-square-foot house was designed to integrate with its natural surroundings. The homeowners, who travel extensively, sought to replicate the ambiance of a Four Seasons spa resort for their active family of five and for entertaining guests. The main floor of the home features a functional layout with a secluded primary suite on one side and children's rooms on the other. Entry is through a walnut timber door, leading into a serene space characterized by clean lines and a neutral color palette of black, dark gray, dark walnut, and light, creamy wood tones. The open-concept kitchen and living room are bright and airy, with floor-to-ceiling windows providing extensive views of the pool and the surrounding wetland preserve. The lower level, built into the hillside, serves as the home's primary leisure and wellness hub. This area is inspired by health clubs and includes a bar, an indoor gym suitable for basketball practice and dance parties, a sauna, and a yoga room. Large sliding glass doors connect these indoor spaces to a grand outdoor patio and pool, emphasizing the integration of indoor and outdoor living. A central design element is the "floating" central staircase, constructed with white oak timber treads suspended on a steel stringer, designed to appear disconnected from the adjacent walls. The base of the staircase incorporates an indoor pebble garden with plants, providing a subtle, organic, and 'zen' aesthetic. The dark pebbles used here are echoed in the electric sauna heater, contributing to the cohesive luxury-resort feel of the home. The lower-level yoga room offers ample space for individual practice or group retreats, with views of the serene pool area. A walnut slat wall subtly separates this studio from a lounge space furnished with three chaises, creating a dedicated relaxation zone. Bamboo half-globe light fixtures are incorporated to complement the natural colors of the nearby wetland preserve. Adjacent to the yoga lounge, a full bar features dark porcelain slabs, sourced from traditional Spanish tilemaker Porcelanosa, which extend upwards to form the back of the main-level fireplace, creating a visually continuous element. This wall consists of 27 porcelain slabs, meticulously installed over six weeks. The bar stools are upholstered in creamy fabric, providing a contrast to the dark porcelain backdrop. The home's spa-like amenities are further enhanced by a custom sauna. Instead of traditional cedar, teak was chosen and treated with a special wax to match the home's darker wood tones. The sauna includes soft under-bench lighting and a Swiss-made Huum heater. An adjacent shower room and a sink area ensure convenience for post-sauna cooling and refreshment. The exterior of the home features a comprehensive outdoor kitchen and pool area. The outdoor kitchen is fully equipped with a grill, a long bar top, a sink, and a dining table for eight. This pavilion space is covered by an upper-level deck, allowing for outdoor gatherings even during inclement weather. An adjacent fire table made of dark porcelain provides an additional outdoor gathering spot by the pool. #LuxuryHome #HomeDesign #OronoRealEstate #SpaInspiredLiving #OutdoorLiving #ModernArchitecture #InteriorDesign #GordonJames #EversonArchitect

This article details the creation of a unique resort-style home in Bali for Alexander Jovanovic, designed by the A2Kreasitama (A2K) team. The project addressed the challenge of an irregularly shaped plot of land, which ultimately inspired the central octagonal foyer, serving as a functional meeting point and a symbolic compass for the house. The design aimed to merge the characteristics of a resort villa, emphasizing natural airflow, with the functionality of a traditional home where spaces could be fully enclosed. To achieve this dual functionality, the A2K team incorporated aluminum glass doors that can be fully opened to allow natural ventilation while also being tightly sealed to prevent insect intrusion. Strategic placement and height of the house were crucial in maximizing natural airflow, effectively eliminating the need for air conditioning. The home's location in Dreamland – Pecatu, Bali, allowed for the integration of Balinese contemporary design elements, starting with intricate wooden carvings at the main entrance. The octagonal foyer, inspired by Taoist cosmology, was intended to bring balance and stability to the irregular landform. The interior of the foyer features white granite tile floors, a sleek console table with a painting, and a contemporary chandelier above a central round table. From the foyer, access is provided to two bedrooms through oversized solid wood doors, and a glass door opens to the swimming pool. The guest bedroom is situated to the left, adjacent to a staircase leading to the upper floors, while the master bedroom on the right offers direct access to a green-stone swimming pool and a private wooden parquet patio. The master suite includes a walk-in closet connecting to a Balinese semi-outdoor bathroom, which features a freestanding bathtub, a solid wall finish, and a stonescape garden, enhancing the private resort-like ambiance. An outdoor whirlpool is located between the master bedroom and the main pool. The guest bedroom also has an open terrace for entertaining or enjoying sunsets, and its bathroom is equipped with a glass wall shower and a small garden leading to the swimming pool. All bedrooms are finished with wooden parquet floors and adorned with solid wood and natural stone accents. An eye-catching contemporary staircase, constructed from steel and solid wood with frameless glass railings, leads to the upper levels. A high synthetic rattan ceiling above the staircase not only serves as an aesthetic feature but also demonstrates a clever use of local materials. The living and dining areas are uniquely positioned on the upper floor to offer magnificent views during daily activities, cultivating a recreational, resort, and tropical atmosphere. The living room, encased by transparent glass doors and solid wood columns, is a focal point of the house. It includes a solid wood dining table with an integrated teppanyaki-style stove for entertaining. Above the dining room, an attic serves as a relaxing space and provides access to a rooftop with panoramic views of Jimbaran Bay and the airport runway, ideal for social gatherings. The lower ground level accommodates a service area, laundry room, and a spacious garage with a carport that can function as a versatile multi-purpose space. Given the owner's background in the hospitality business, the A2K team meticulously designed the home to offer luxurious comfort and a distinct resort feel. The public and private areas are clearly delineated, and the designer used scale effectively to maximize space and apply hospitality industry standards to a private residence. For example, the octagonal foyer's atrium was designed to be larger than typical for a home of its size. The innovative design on the 505 sqm plot successfully integrated various functions to cater to the owner's lifestyle, resulting in a truly unique resort-style home. #ArchitectureInterior #ResortStyleHome #BaliDesign #A2Kreasitama #SustainableDesign #BalineseContemporary #LuxuryLiving #ArchitecturalInnovation

In early 2022, Brooklyn-based designer Whitney Parris-Lamb discovered a century-old cabin in the Hudson Valley, which had remained unsold despite its potential. Her business partner, Amanda Jesse, initially harbored reservations due to the cottage's extensive deferred maintenance and haphazard additions over the years. However, Jesse recognized Parris-Lamb’s talent for revitalizing properties, and the duo, who co-founded the design firm Jesse Parris-Lamb, proceeded with the acquisition and renovation. Their firm is known for creating elegantly refined yet cozy spaces, characterized by bespoke furnishings and tactile materials like terra cotta tiles and cork wallpaper. The renovation of the 2,500-square-foot cottage was approached with a commitment to preserving its original character, a promise Parris-Lamb made to the previous owner. The rambling floor plan was largely kept intact, with one significant alteration: a doorway in the vaulted living room was relocated by four feet. This seemingly minor adjustment, suggested by Jesse, created visual symmetry and cleared the line of sight to the striking stone fireplace, unlocking the room's potential and improving furniture placement. The interior design prioritized a curated blend of existing pieces, family heirlooms, and items Parris-Lamb had collected over time. The living room, for instance, features antique Arts and Crafts chairs passed down from Parris-Lamb’s great-grandmother, now reupholstered in a whimsical Décors Barbares motif. A vintage teak-framed sofa, clad in camel velvet, and an Ikea sofa with a custom golden stripe slipcover from Bemz, highlight the emphasis on comfort for a weekend retreat. A cocktail table fashioned by Parris-Lamb’s mother from a family heirloom dining table, and a spherical Noguchi paper lantern, add personal and modern touches to the rustic space. The kitchen and dining area, an addition from the 1980s, required less structural work. The existing pine cabinets were retained, but the floors were refinished and updated with handmade terra-cotta tiles from Zia Tile in various shades of green, complemented by leather cabinet pulls from Spinneybeck. This area, which sold Parris-Lamb on the house, features warm wooden panels and a corner with floor-to-ceiling stonework housing a retro wood-burning stove. The antique wooden dining table, a bequest from the former owner known for hosting large gatherings, serves as a centerpiece, juxtaposed with a suite of mid-century George Nakashima chairs from Knoll. A custom plaster pendant by London artist Alexandra Robinson adds an organically shaped, slightly cockeyed element above the table. The overall color scheme of the cottage leans towards understated, muddy, and warm natural shades, a departure from the firm's typically bolder aesthetic. This evolved organically, reflecting Parris-Lamb’s desire for a quieter, more neutral home and a methodical process of furnishing. The house became a destination for beloved, disparate pieces accumulated over time, creating an atmosphere that feels organically sourced from antique barns in areas like Asheville or the Catskills. #HudsonValley #CottageRenovation #InteriorDesign #RusticCharm #HistoricPreservation #JesseParrisLamb #HomeDecor #DesignPhilosophy #SustainableDesign

This article highlights a 7,772-square-foot Tuscan Mediterranean home located in Bluffview, Dallas, listed by Doris Jacobs with Allie Beth Allman & Associates at 5019 Shadywood Lane. The property spans one acre, featuring lush, manicured grounds, mature trees, walkways, covered terraces, and a Zen garden. A prominent outdoor feature is the lagoon-style pool and spa, designed to evoke a resort-like ambiance. The residence, crafted by architect Robbie Fusch and built by Randy Hughes, integrates both aesthetic appeal and practical functionality. The home's exterior showcases Tuscan influences, while the interior design is characterized by dramatic choices. Functionality is enhanced through the inclusion of solar power, smart home technology, an elevator, and a Tesla charging station. The design thoughtfully maximizes the scenic views intrinsic to Shadywood Lane, offering a balance between casual daily living and suitability for entertaining. Interior spaces are well-appointed, with a formal dining room featuring a barrel vault ceiling and a study adorned with rich paneling, a cross-beamed ceiling, bookcases, and French doors that open to a Zen garden with a fountain. The great room provides an expansive feel, accentuated by a vaulted beamed ceiling and direct access to outdoor areas. It connects to a chef's kitchen equipped with granite counters, Viking appliances, a butler’s pantry, a walk-in pantry, a breakfast bar, and a dedicated wine closet. The downstairs master suite is a generous space featuring a chevron-patterned wood plank floor and a vaulted beamed ceiling. An elevated sitting area within the master suite includes a cast stone fireplace with a marble surround and offers views of the backyard. The en-suite master bath is a luxurious marble spa, complete with dual vanities, a circular jetted tub, a separate double steam shower, a water closet, and an extensive walk-in closet. In addition to the master suite, the downstairs level includes a guest suite. Upstairs, there are two more bedrooms, each with its own en-suite bathroom and walk-in closet. An iron-grilled balcony leads to an attached guest suite that comprises a fifth bedroom, an oversized living room, and a bathroom. Recreational and functional spaces within the home include a media room with an illuminated mural ceiling and a wet bar, a game room with a balcony overlooking the backyard, a full utility room, and a mudroom. Outdoor entertaining options are extensive, featuring a covered terrace with an outdoor fireplace wall and another terrace with an outdoor kitchen. The saltwater lagoon-style pool is complemented by a separate guest house, which includes its own living room, kitchenette, bedroom, and bathroom. This Bluffview property is listed at $5.2 million, offering a comprehensive suite of amenities designed for luxurious living and entertaining. #BluffviewRealEstate #TuscanHome #LuxuryAmenities #DallasHomes #RobbieFuschDesign #SmartHomeTechnology #ResortStyleLiving #HighEndKitchen #PrivateEstate