Live Alongside the Legends | GG Magazine Issue
Engel & Völkers is pleased to introduce the newest issue of GG Magazine. This edition is all about Living Legends, including both individuals and brands and their incredible stories. From the remarkable journey of Sharon Stone, who transformed herself from an iconic Hollywood star to a dedicated painter, to the awe-inspiring tale of Ferrari's latest model, the Purosangue, these legendary stories are bound to inspire. The Art of Staying True to Yourself Sharon Stone's life serves as evidence that personal reinvention and resilience is a powerful art. In a world where conformity often reigns supreme, Stone exemplifies how courage and defiance can help you regain control of your life, on your terms. In 2001, the renowned actress suffered a stroke and faced a grim one percent chance of survival. However, Stone fought her way back to life, relearning how to walk and talk through sheer willpower. Yet, when she was finally ready to return to Hollywood, she found Hollywood was not waiting for her return. To navigate the anxiety and uncertainty, Stone turned to a childhood passion – painting. A paint-by-numbers kit, gifted to her by a friend during the pandemic, reignited her love for creating art. Soon, her original pieces, showcased on Instagram, caught the attention of a prominent art critic, leading to her first exhibition. Though met with resistance, several successful shows later, she now finds museum art collectors competing for her pieces. Through art, Stone narrates significant chapters of her life. Notably, her recent Berlin exhibition featured a consistent theme of shedding and rebirth, with each piece including a snake. Reflecting on her life's journey, Stone determines that happiness is not a given, but a discipline and a daily choice. Freed from the constraints of societal expectations, she serves as a reminder that with courage and determination, we can overcome any obstacle and carve out our own path to fulfillment and success. The Ferrari Purosangue Ferrari made headlines when it announced the new Purosangue, their first-ever supercar with four doors and four seats. The GG team had the unique opportunity to test drive the vehicle through New Zealand's scenic landscape. The passion and luxury synonymous with Ferrari are clearly woven into the very fabric of the new Purosangue. The vehicle features an Active Suspension System, a V12 engine, and, of course, a completely new chassis. With an impressive 725 horsepower, the vehicle has more power than any other car in its segment. Notably, the four-door is not considered an SUV, as fervently described by Chief Design Officer Flavio Manzoni, “Enzo Ferrari would turn in his grave” at such a claim. Developed with nearly 85% sustainably produced raw materials, the new Ferrari is not just on the cutting edge of technology; it's an innovator in sustainability as well. Recycled polyester makes up the roof lining, while polyamide recycled from fishing nets makes the carpet. Although they look like leather, the seats are actually Alcantara, also made from recycled polyester. The route through the hills where “The Lord of the Rings” trilogy was filmed created the perfect backdrop for the unforgettable drive. However, the local 68 mph speed limit prevented the drivers from reaching the Purosangue’s maximum speed of 193 mph. With the ability to reach such a high top speed while still offering a spacious and comfortable ride, it's no wonder the Purosangue is already sold out until 2026. The Hotel Chelsea The Hotel Chelsea, a historic sanctuary for artists and cultural icons in Manhattan, began a renovation journey in 2011, sparking fears of losing its rock'n'roll soul to gentrification. As construction workers filled its storied halls, the fear of losing "Old New York" loomed large, threatening to erase decades of history and eccentricity. Frequented by legends like Bob Dylan, Stanley Kubrick, and Leonard Cohen, the Chelsea Hotel wasn't just a place to rest—it was a living embodiment of free spirit. Surprisingly, once the renovation efforts began and scaffolding covered the well-known bricks, no progress was made for ten long years. Permit disputes, investors pulling out, and arguments with residents halted improvements to the property. Yet the hotel held another secret within its walls. Two years ago, the Chelsea unexpectedly reopened after a complete renovation, without having changed its appearance much at all. It emerged rejuvenated yet unmistakably true to its roots, with old furniture and wires replaced but iconic features remaining. With a nod to its storied past and a touch of modernity, the hotel blends the old with the new, offering an inspiring environment for creatives of all kinds. The MS Europa This year, the Europa, often referred to as the most beautiful yacht in the world, celebrates her 25th anniversary. To help commemorate this milestone, the GG team was invited on a journey down the U.S. East Coast from Halifax in Canada to New York City aboard the luxurious ship. As part of the adventure, passengers could watch humpback whales leap from the water and go on excursions, such as visiting Harvard University. Gabi Haupt, Europa's product manager and the heart of the ship, ensures each guest has a meaningful experience during their stay and plans events tailored to their interests. Aboard the boat, passengers enjoyed luxurious meals while admiring an expansive view of the Atlantic Ocean. A recent extensive renovation completed in an impressive 14 days brought a spa and gym to the top of the ship, offering innovative fitness classes and nutrition workshops. Aboard the boat, passengers enjoyed luxurious meals while admiring an expansive view of the Atlantic Ocean. A recent extensive renovation completed in an impressive 14 days brought a spa and gym to the top of the ship, offering innovative fitness classes and nutrition workshops. The completion of the journey in New York left many emotional as the Europa passed the Statue of Liberty with Frank Sinatra’s “New York, New York” playing through the speakers, and a glass of champagne in hand. It's unsurprising that many guests return to the ship to embark on new adventures again and again, with one lady having gone on over thirty cruises aboard this ship. SOURCE
The Island Issue
The Island Issue We are excited to welcome you to The Island Issue of GG Magazine. This new issue is all about the endless appeal of islands, featuring stories about individuals whose island lifestyles and enterprises never fail to inspire. From stunning boutique hotels and resorts to the vibrancy of cultures captured by world-renowned photographers, we welcome you to explore the stories that emulate the island dream. In this issue, we meet serial entrepreneur Sir Richard Branson for the opening of his new boutique hotel “Son Bunyola” in Majorca. In an interview about dreams, pioneering spirit and the thirst for adventure, we learn the story behind his entrepreneurial spirit and “never-give-up” mentality. Following is a section exploring the work of legendary photographer Slim Aarons, who captured the glamorous lives of the upper class in the Mediterranean and the Caribbean, followed by a look inside the colorful Manhattan townhouse of John Demsey, former Group President of Estée Lauder, who was forced to start over in his mid-60s. Finally, discover the luxury resort known as the “Bawah Reserve” located in Indonesia, rewriting the definition of peace via seclusion. Meeting Mr. Yes! In the heart of Mallorca, a new chapter unfolds in the story of Sir Richard Branson, the intrepid founder of the Virgin Group and a connoisseur of adventure. With the unveiling of “Son Bunyola,” his latest venture, Branson beckons us into an extraordinary world where the narrative is as captivating as the landscape. “Son Bunyola” stands as a beacon of luxury within the Tramuntana mountains, sprawling across a 520-hectare estate adorned with more than15,000 olive trees. Mallorca's essence is captured in every detail, from the meticulously selected décor to the furniture that echoes the island's soul, ensuring that the spirit of the Balearics pulsates through the veins of this majestic retreat. At its heart lies a 28-meter pool, born from ruins, symbolizing rebirth and the enduring allure of transformation. Yet, it is Branson’s personal journey that imbues “Son Bunyola” with its unique allure. His journey, initially fueled by the pursuit of a lost love, ultimately led him to a different kind of passion—a love affair with Mallorca itself. While fate may not have granted him the romantic outcome he once sought, it gave him a profound appreciation for the island, its beauty, and its capacity to inspire. Beyond the enchanting landscapes and luxurious amenities, “Son Bunyola” is a testament to Branson's life lessons—family, dedication, and the importance of patience. It embodies his belief that “The brave may not live forever, but the cautious do not live at all.” King of Mustique In this feature, the man behind the famous celebrity-studded getaway in the Caribbean opens up about the origins of the world-renowned Basil’s Bar. Born and raised on the neighboring island of St. Vincent, Basil Charles relocated to Mustique in 1971. With no roads, no electricity, and no places to go, it took quite some time before the lifestyle of the island began to improve. Working at the only hotel on the island, known as the Cotton House, Basil Charles took full reign over the hotel’s beach bar, which would soon become known as the infamous “Basil’s Bar”. Basil’s Bar became the epitome of Caribbean retreats, magnetizing A-list celebrities such as Mick Jagger, Kate Moss, and members of the royal household. It transformed into the quintessential location where the glitterati could moor their yachts, unwind, and savor the bar’s celebrated libations. Yet, Basil’s Bar is not characterized for attracting the affluent, famous, and exclusive; but rather for its focus on inclusivity. Basil cultivated a space where locals and tourists could coalesce, dance, and celebrate in unison, dismantling societal divides and nurturing a singular communal bond. The essence of Basil’s Bar lies not just in its illustrious guest list or its exotic beverages, but in the foundational principles of its creator: Basil Charles recognized that the true enchantment of his venture was its capacity to enrich lives by bringing individuals together. Slim Aarons - Eyelands In the era that followed World War II, a period where the world was rediscovering its vibrancy and zest for life, Slim Aarons positioned himself as the chronicler of the jet-setters, socialites, and those born into the lap of luxury. Through the five decades he spent behind the lens, Aarons transformed places like Mustique, Mykonos, and Capri, their fame and desirability magnified by his evocative imagery. "photographing attractive people doing attractive things in attractive places," Aarons’ ethos, "photographing attractive people doing attractive things in attractive places," perfectly distills the essence of his illustrious career. Transitioning from the stark realities of war photography to the pursuit of beauty, Aarons spotlighted the aspirational aspects of the post-war period. His prestigious contributions to magazines like Life, Town & Country, and Holiday unveiled the lavish lifestyles of the rich and famous, from Hollywood’s celebrities to European nobility. Today, Slim Aarons' legacy stands as a tribute to a bygone lifestyle defined by its unforced elegance and joy of existence. Aarons was more than a spectator; he was an architect of the mythos of mid-century glamor, a maestro whose symphony of images continue to inspire today. For all of these articles and more, you can view the full issue here. Enjoy your read.
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