By: THE EDITORS
Behold a selection of grand ideas any joie de vivre afficionado should know all about.
Since 1853 Steinway & Sons have set an uncompromising standard for sound, craftsmanship, and design. This venerable manufacturer has been the piano of choice for Diana Krall, Billy Joel, Cole Porter, and Sergei Rachmaninoff. In 2015, Steinway launched SPIRIO, a masterpiece of engineering that permits owners either to play the piano themselves or to access a vast, 4,000-piece-strong-and-growing library of music played by renowned international pianists. With SPIRIO | r, the latest evolution, pianists can now record, edit, playback, search, and save their performances.
GREEN WISE
Not only the worldwide leader in private aviation, NetJets has embarked on a commitment to be the industry’s most sustainable forerunner.
With its recently launched expanded Global Sustainability Program, this Berkshire Hathaway company has implemented several initiatives. Its corporate responsibility endeavors go further than philanthropic initiatives and sustainability programs; they strongly encourage consumer participation.
On the business side, NetJets is purchasing enough sustainable aviation fuel to account for all flights out of San Francisco, California, where the fuel supply is located, and its home base of Columbus, Ohio. Traditional jet fuels are produced from crude oil then distilled in refineries. This greener alternative is produced in biorefineries using solid and municipal waste and then it’s blended with Jet A fuel. Its usage results in a significant reduction in carbon emissions caused by the traditional burning of fossil fuels and utilizes waste that would otherwise be incinerated or left in landfills. In other good news, NetJets is partnering with WasteFuel and Prime Infra to develop biorefineries in areas where solid waste management is a major problem.
Consumer wise, since the launch of Blue Skies By NetJets® in 2015, participants have access to environmentally friendly ways to fly. The program encourages taking responsibility for the impact of flights by purchasing the equivalent amount of carbon credits to ensure their flight activity is carbon neutral. The emissions are offset by ClimateCare®, an effort to protect forests, capture and destroy landfill gas, and scale up renewable energy distribution.
KING OF THE ROAD
Living up to its tagline “best or nothing,” Mercedes-Benz’ 2021 S-Class delivers the joy of driving with aplomb. This new model seeks to deliver grander proportions, richer interiors, innovative safety equipment, and some seriously futuristic features. Among the many highlights in this most luxurious, most tech-heavy full-size sedan Mercedes has ever created, you’ll find Drive Pilot, a techie assortment of 22 sensors and cameras. Other features include a 3D gauge cluster, a massive OLED touchscreen, rear-wheel steering for better maneuverability, and an active air suspension. A pair of turbocharged powertrains and standard all-wheel drive ensure a speed worthy of German engineering. Visit Mercedes-Benz of Coral Gables for a closer look and drive away in high-tech style. (mbcoralgables.com)
SMOKE SHOW
Arguably the most stylish slip-ons of all time, smoking slippers are the ultimate in refined dressing for both men and women. This perfect flat can be classic or quirky. Here are some of the standouts.
ARTEMIS DESIGN CO. The Artemis Kilim Loafer, handcrafted from Turkish carpets, has garnered a cult following, and its limited releases, made largely by women artists, are collected by fans all over. Each is thoughtfully created, reflecting its founder’s ideals.
STUBBS & WOOTTON
Known for its bespoke and ready-to-wear luxury slippers, Stubbs & Wootton celebrates a lifestyle that surpasses elegance. Launched in 1993 and handmade in Europe, they are perfect for any arbiter of refinement.
SEA-FARING
For the Monaco Yacht Show, last year’s global events did not take the wind out of its sails. The forced sabbatical resulted in the creation of a bigger and better show. There is a complete redesign to open the space, programming that aims to promote superyachts, and the Sapphire Experience, a new VIP service for qualified guests who want to take part in activations that highlight the latest trends in sailing, design, and maritime adventures. September 22 to 25.
SELF CARE
This fall, Topping Rose House — the Hamptons’ forerunner of sophisticated hospitality — is adding a few self-care offerings. Those checking in can enjoy medical skincare services as well as muscle-relaxing, anti-inflammatory massage treatments using Farmaesthetics products. Beloved dermatologist Dr. Dennis Gross will continue practicing his skin magic on-site, where he provides full-service dermatology, including chemical peels, facials, Botox, and fillers. Fitness programming will include classes in Barre Sculpt & Flow, Holistic Yoga, Cardio Boxing and Restorative Pilates. Or you can simply kick back in front of a fireplace with a glass of wine and a book in the library.
SUB EXPLORERS
Triton Submarines, the leading manufacturer of personal submarines, has unveiled Triton 13000/2 Titanic Explorer. Set to be the deepest diving acrylic pressure-hulled manned submersible ever produced, it has the ability to dive to 4,000m (13,123ft) and features for the first time, Gull Wings. The acrylic surrounding the Triton Titanic provides amazing panoramic views with zero distortion.