Church’s: The Living Heritage of English Shoemaking

Editorial
03/12/2025

Over a Century of Craftsmanship

The origins of Church’s reach back to 1617, when Anthony Church – a master shoemaker in the historic town of Northampton – began handcrafting shoes in a region already revered for its leather artisans. At that time, shoemaking was not an industry but a discipline, performed slowly, methodically, and entirely by hand.

The true turning point came in 1873. Thomas Church, alongside his wife Eliza and their sons Alfred and William, transformed a family métier into a modern maison by founding the brand’s first factory at 30 Maple Street in Northampton. Only a few years later, the workshop expanded to Duke Street, marking the birth of Church’s as we know it today, a house where tradition and innovation would soon walk side by side.

 

Innovation and Prestige from the Start

Few shoemakers have shaped the history of footwear the way Church’s did in the late 19th century. At a time when many shoes were still symmetrical, Church’s introduced left and right shoes : a revolution. They also pioneered multiple widths and half-sizes, bringing comfort into the very definition of elegance.

This commitment to excellence was rewarded early. In 1881, Church’s received the Gold Medal at the Great Exhibition, an accolade that cemented its reputation as a leader in English craftsmanship and set the tone for decades to come.

Tradition Meets Modern Vision

When Church’s joined the Prada Group in 1999, the maison could have lost itself in global expansion. Instead, it deepened its identity.

The Northampton workshop remains the beating heart of Church’s, where each pair still undergoes more than 250 manual processes before leaving the factory. Yet the maison embraced modernity with intelligence: rugged commando soles, contemporary designs, unexpected collaborations – all proving that true heritage is not a prison but a foundation.

Church’s evolves without compromising; it reinvents without forgetting. This balance is the hallmark of great luxury.

A Gentleman’s Choice

In a world dominated by fleeting trends, Church’s stands as a manifesto of continuity. A pair of their shoes is not a fashion item ; it is a companion. The more it is worn, the more it becomes yours, shaped by your steps, your rhythm, your life.

To choose Church’s is to join a lineage: of elegance passed down, of excellence preserved. It is to affirm that true luxury is not about excess, but about intention.

Elegance in Every Step

Church’s does not merely produce shoes; it cultivates a way of being. A way of walking through the world with precision, discretion, and quiet confidence. For the modern gentleman, this is not an accessory  – it is an attitude. A subtle declaration of mastery, visible only to those who understand.

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ONNO: Interiors that breathe elegance

Editorial
02/12/2025

Elegance Begins With What You Don’t See

Men of taste understand this instinctively: the beauty of a room is not only in what attracts the eye.
It lies in what surrounds you, soothes you, and subtly commands attention.

The scent.

An invisible signature – yet unforgettable.

ONNO embraces that idea with remarkable finesse. Here, fragrance is not an accessory: it is an architectural element, a way to sculpt the air, give a room its soul, and create at home the refined ambiance of a grand hotel.

Objects of Light, Long Before They Are Candles

ONNO first captivates through its sculptural design.
Hand-cut glass, geometric textures, thick silhouettes, warm reflections ; each piece resembles a contemporary art object.

Lit, the candle emits a deep, mineral-like glow that reshapes the room.
Unlit, it remains a statement piece with undeniable presence.

This dual identity is what wins over aesthetes:
an object as artwork, a flame as atmosphere.

Fragrances Crafted Like Sensory Journeys

At the heart of ONNO’s expertise are its rich, textured, sophisticated fragrances, far removed from mainstream scents.

Each fragrance evokes a landscape, a mood, a story:

  • Wood ; Amber: noble warmth, masculine depth

  • Safari: sun-drenched intensity, bold and confident

  • Cedarwood: timeless wood elegance

  • Pure: a calm, luminous, almost meditative atmosphere

These scents don’t merely perfume a space.
They create an ambiance, a tension, a breath they give a room its character.

Creating a Grand Hotel Atmosphere at Home

Scenting a space is not a spontaneous gesture.
It is a ritual.

Here is the ONNO philosophy, embraced by lovers of refined interiors:

1. Choose a fragrance that reflects you

Woody, warm, fresh, mysterious.
A home shouldn’t smell “nice” ; it should smell right.

2. Use light as part of the decor

An ONNO candle doesn’t just scent the air.
It casts a glow that softens edges, shapes shadows, and envelops the room.

3. Create an olfactory rhythm

A deeper fragrance for the living room.
A calming one for the workspace.
A bold one for evenings.

This is how an interior becomes coherent, curated, elegant.

ONNO and the Art of Luxury That Doesn’t Need to Show

In a world obsessed with visibility, ONNO stands out by mastering what cannot be seen but can always be felt.

It is not a showpiece.
It is not an ostentatious object.

It is luxury for those who understand that true sophistication is silent, subtle, almost intimate.

Luxury for men who shape their home as an extension of their taste.

Luxury for those who know that the most beautiful element in a room isn’t the sofa, the artwork, or the rug.

It is the atmosphere.

And ONNO has mastered its essence.

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A Century of Sound: Inside the Legacy of Bang & Olufsen

Editorial
27/11/2025

A Danish Beginning with a Global Impact

Everything starts in a farmhouse attic in the Jutland countryside.
Two engineers, Peter Bang and Svend Olufsen, try to simplify how people use their radios.
Their solution is surprisingly modern: a way to plug a radio directly into the electrical outlet instead of relying on batteries.

This early idea reflects how Bang & Olufsen naturally works.
Observe how people use technology, identify what can be improved, and create a solution that feels obvious once it exists.
No unnecessary complexity.
Just a smarter, more refined way to live with technology.

This practical, down-to-earth mindset combined with a high standard of execution has guided the brand ever since.

Design as a Way of Living

What truly sets Bang & Olufsen apart is its approach to design.
For many tech companies, design comes after the specifications.
For B&O, design is part of the engineering itself.

The brand understood very early that electronics are not neutral objects. They live in our homes. They influence the atmosphere of a room, the quality of the space, and even the way we move.

That is why B&O works with
clean, balanced lines
premium, long-lasting materials
natural and timeless colors
proportions designed to blend into interiors

Nothing is loud or attention seeking.
A Bang & Olufsen object settles easily into a space, whether it is a minimalist apartment, a classic townhouse or a modern villa.

This is also why many B&O pieces are featured in design museums around the world. They are not just devices, they are part of the culture of contemporary living.

The Pursuit of a Natural, Balanced Sound

Bang & Olufsen has never chased the biggest or loudest sound.
The brand focuses instead on clarity, balance and realism.

The goal is simple.
Deliver a sound that feels natural, consistent and comfortable to listen to, even for long periods.

B&O engineers work on sound the same way others work on materials, with precision, attention to detail and a constant search for harmony.

This creates a very recognizable audio signature.
Clean, controlled and elegant, just like the brand’s visual identity.

Durability as a Mindset, Not a Marketing Claim

Long before sustainability became a trend, Bang & Olufsen was already designing products meant to last, technically and aesthetically.

This philosophy can be seen in
the choice of resistant, noble materials
minimalist shapes that remain relevant over time
products that can be maintained or restored
an aesthetic that avoids anything fashion driven

The idea is clear.
If an object stays in a home for decades, it should remain beautiful for decades.

This long-term vision is deeply rooted in Scandinavian culture. Quality, stability and respect for the object.

100 Years Ahead of Its Time

Bang & Olufsen offers something rare: technology that enhances a space instead of dominating it.
Its products are refined without being fragile, advanced without being complicated, and luxurious without being ostentatious.

What truly sets the brand apart is its ability to stay relevant by staying true to its values.
A century after its creation, Bang & Olufsen still feels modern, still feels current and still feels ahead of the conversation ; as if the brand has always been one hundred years ahead of its time.

Bang & Olufsen does not simply build audio equipment.
It builds a vision of how technology should look, feel and live within a home.
And that vision, a hundred years later, remains strikingly contemporary.

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Cecil Wright: The Discreet Art of Bespoke Yachting

Editorial
29/09/2025

Brokerage with a British Touch – Precise, Personal, Efficient

Cecil Wright operates at the very heart of the yachting ecosystem, offering a full spectrum of services: sales, charter, new-build project management, and support for nautical events. Instead of functioning as a large-scale commercial machine, the agency works as a tight-knit team of experts – often with seafaring experience – who provide honest, fast, and tailored advice to demanding clients.

Specialists in Iconic Builds and Contemporary Classics

The house first gained recognition for its deep knowledge of Feadship yachts – icons of Dutch craftsmanship – before broadening its expertise to include other leading European shipyards. This dual strength (insight into both major new-builds and the secondary market) allows Cecil Wright to advise on everything from a strategic sale to the commission of a fully bespoke yacht.

Transactions That Speak for Themselves

Recent headline-making sales – including significant Lürssen yachts – highlight the firm’s ability to handle high-profile, highly sensitive deals with discretion and impact. Beyond Monaco, Cecil Wright has also brokered some of the most remarkable yacht sales around the world, further confirming its reach and authority across the globe. Each success reinforces the brand’s promise: efficiency without compromise, delivered with total confidentiality.

Presence Where It Matters — Monaco and Beyond

Cecil Wright maintains a strong presence at major industry gatherings such as the Monaco Yacht Show, carefully curating listings that appeal to true connoisseurs. This presence ensures that the firm remains at the pulse of industry trends while offering clients privileged access to the market’s finest opportunities.

A Philosophy for the Modern Gentleman

What sets Cecil Wright apart is not simply the yachts they sell or charter, but their philosophy: building trust, protecting confidentiality, and providing robust technical advice ; often from former captains and officers turned advisors. For the modern gentleman seeking a yacht as much as a legacy, Cecil Wright offers intelligent, discreet, and thoroughly bespoke guidance.

For the Gentleman Who Knows

Owning or chartering a superyacht is ultimately a matter of taste, network, and above all, trust. Cecil Wright has shaped its promise around these three pillars. For those looking to invest in a yacht – whether to explore the Mediterranean, host private escapes, or commission a groundbreaking new build — the brand offers a rare combination of shipyard expertise, commercial insight, and absolute discretion. In short, the ideal ally for the gentleman whose luxury speaks softly but says everything.

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The Art of the Ring: Temple | Noble Art

Editorial
17/09/2025

Where Boxing Meets Elegance

At Gentleman Jungle, we love places that turn routine into ritual. Temple | Noble Art is one of them: a sanctuary where boxing becomes an art, blending discipline, aesthetics, and a touch of typically Parisian elegance.

A Private Club Atmosphere in the Heart of Paris

Step inside Temple | Noble Art and you’ll forget you’re entering a gym. Dark wood paneling, refined leather, soft lighting ; the ambiance feels closer to a London private club than a traditional fitness center. Every detail is carefully crafted: locker rooms worthy of a palace, lounge areas that invite conversation, and equipment selected with taste.

Tailor-Made Training

The Temple coaches go far beyond simple punching combinations. They design a complete program for each member:

  • Private or group sessions tailored to your schedule

  • Targeted physical preparation to boost performance

  • High-level technique, accessible to both beginners and advanced boxers

Each session is designed for you, like a bespoke suit.

A Community of Modern Gentlemen

Temple | Noble Art is more than a place to sweat – it’s a place to connect. Entrepreneurs, creatives, curious minds: people come here not only to train but to exchange ideas and get inspired.

Gallery

Multiple Clubs, One Spirit

To fit seamlessly into Parisian life, Temple | Noble Art has five strategic locations:

  • Temple | Palais Royal – 11 rue Molière, 75001 Paris

  • Temple | Porte Maillot – 66 boulevard Gouvion Saint-Cyr, 75017 Paris

  • Temple | République – 138 rue Amelot, 75011 Paris

  • Temple | Saint-Lazare – 12 rue de Milan, 75009 Paris

  • Temple | La Motte-Picquet Grenelle – 5 rue de La Croix Nivert, 75015 Paris

Redefining the Gentleman’s Routine

Temple | Noble Art is not just a boxing club ; it’s a way of life. It’s where the gentleman hones his technique, channels his energy, and cultivates his style.

👉 Discover Temple | Noble Art at www.temple-nobleart.com

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Brioni: The Epitome of Italian Tailoring Since 1945

Editorial
08/09/2025

The Birth of a Style

From the beginning, Brioni distinguished itself with boldness. In a post-war world still marked by rigid, conservative cuts, the Roman house introduced suits with a softer, lighter construction, featuring natural shoulders and a silhouette designed to enhance the male physique. Brioni also dared to use colorful fabrics and refined patterns, standing apart from the era’s dominant greys.

Gaetano Savini and Nazareno Fonticoli / Brioni’s Founders ; Credit : Brioni

The First Men’s Fashion Show

In 1952, Brioni made history by staging in Florence the world’s first fashion show dedicated exclusively to men’s clothing. This audacious move propelled the house onto the international stage and attracted an elite clientele of heads of state, Hollywood icons, aristocrats, and business magnates.

Credit : Brioni

The Suit of Modern Gentlemen

Brioni’s success rests on the art of bespoke tailoring. Every piece is handcrafted by master tailors at the atelier in Penne, in the heart of Abruzzo, requiring over 200 individual steps to complete. The result: a second skin, meticulously adapted to the wearer’s physique and personality.

Credit : Gentleman Jungle
Flavio Cerbone

A Cinematic Aura

Brioni’s legend also unfolded on screen. In the 1990s and early 2000s, James Bond – portrayed by Pierce Brosnan and later Daniel Craig – wore Brioni suits. It was a natural fit: the brand’s blend of strength, elegance, and timeless modernity perfectly captured the essence of 007.

Gallery

Brioni Today

The house has navigated shifting trends without compromise. Under the creative direction of Norbert Stumpfl, today’s collections preserve the spirit of traditional tailoring while adapting to the demands of a modern wardrobe: softer suits, fluid overcoats, and elevated casual pieces ; all united by the same pursuit of excellence, echoed in the effortless sophistication of Jude Law.

Credit : Brioni
Credit : Craig McDean

A Living Legacy

To wear Brioni is to embrace a lifestyle: that of the international gentleman, who values discretion, quality, and refinement over ostentation. An elegance that never needs to shout to be heard.

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Atica – Immersive Gastronomy in the Heart of Paris

Editorial
05/09/2025

A stage that captivates

Housed in a former cinema, Atica reveals a futuristic and intimate atmosphere. The space, enveloped by a panoramic screen, projects striking imagery that evolves with the rhythm of the meal. Visuals, scents, textures and sounds converge to create an immersive world where dining becomes art.

A culinary narrative

At Atica, each dish tells a story. Structured like a series of acts, the menu draws inspiration from regional traditions and cultural savoir-faire. Before each creation is served, guests are introduced to its heritage, whether through a glimpse of an artisan’s craft, a landscape or a fragment of memory, amplifying the emotion of the tasting. Cuisine here becomes a universal language, blending discovery with refined emotion.

The vision behind the experience

Atica is the brainchild of Ramzi Saade, who has fused the creativity of contemporary gastronomy with the boldness of immersive staging. In collaboration with architect Chloé Leymarie, he has conceived a cocoon of avant-garde elegance where innovation never compromises refinement.

An address for aesthetes

Atica stands as a rare meeting point between culture, art and haute cuisine. It is a destination for connoisseurs who seek experiences beyond time, where beauty, storytelling and emotion intertwine.

For Gentleman Jungle

Atica is not just a table, it is a living stage, a seamless bridge between gastronomy and culture. An exclusive address for those in Paris who wish to experience dining as an unforgettable journey where every act resonates with elegance and imagination.

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Chinese Business Club: Where Influence Meets Excellence

Editorial
03/09/2025

A premier club with global resonance

Founded in 2012 by Harold Parisot, an ESSEC alumnus, the Chinese Business Club has grown into one of the most respected and influential networks in France. Often referred to as the No. 1 business club in the country, it gathers more than 130 corporate members and organizes around 15 exclusive events a year in Paris, from power lunches to private cocktails and conferences.

 

More than a simple network, the Club operates like a living address book: curated, confidential, and immediately effective. Its renewal rate is exceptional, close to 90% annually, proof that members see tangible value in staying connected to the circle.

French at its core, international in its spirit

Despite its name, today the Club is overwhelmingly 90% French in composition. Yet, the international dimension remains embedded in its DNA. Its ambition is to offer members not only access to Parisian decision-makers but also to open doors across borders, creating bridges between France, Europe, and the world.

The signature experience

Each event unfolds with a ritualized elegance:

  • 11:30 a.m. – Champagne cocktail networking, where first encounters are made.

  • 1:00 p.m. – Lunch, served in a prestigious Parisian venue such as the Four Seasons George V, Shangri-La, or Westin Vendôme.

  • 2:00–3:30 p.m. – Coffee networking, where conversations deepen and opportunities crystallize.

This rhythm, simple yet perfectly orchestrated, is the reason the Club has become a must-attend for CEOs, investors, entrepreneurs, and public figures alike.

 

Credit : Hotel du Collectionneur
Credit : Gentleman Jungle

Where leaders meet

The Club’s influence is reflected in the stature of its speakers. Over the years, its stage has welcomed:

  • Emmanuel Macron, before the presidency, in 2015.

  • Nicolas Sarkozy, former French president.

  • Alexandre Arnault, Executive Vice President at Tiffany & Co.
  • Patrick Pouyanné, CEO of TotalEnergies.

  • Tony Parker, NBA legend and entrepreneur.

  • Yannick Bolloré, Chairman and CEO of Havas, emblematic of media and corporate influence.

  • Prince Albert II of Monaco, Prince of Monaco.

  • Cyril Hanouna, television icon, in 2025.

From politics to business, sports, and culture, the diversity of voices reinforces the Club’s role as a true mirror of French influence.

Gallery

Harold Parisot: the conductor of connections

At the center of this success is Harold Parisot, a man who built the Chinese Business Club from nothing but conviction and vision. With no preexisting network, he crafted a platform where proximity to decision-makers became accessible to those who understand how to use it.

Today, he insists on opening doors for startups, SMEs, and ambitious founders, offering them not only visibility but also access to investors, media, and decision-makers who can shape their trajectory.

 

Credit : Chinese Business Club

Why it matters

What do you gain from joining?

  • Direct access to power: ministers, CEOs, investors, journalists — all in one room.

  • Prestige by association: being part of the Club enhances your brand image instantly.

  • Real connections, not digital noise: here, deals are sparked face-to-face, over champagne and conversation.

  • Inspiration: every guest of honor becomes a model of ambition and excellence.

Gentleman Jungle’s perspective

The Chinese Business Club is not just a network – it is a social accelerator. For leaders, entrepreneurs, and brands built on excellence, it offers a refined relational stage, where opportunity blends seamlessly with prestige.

Its success lies in its balance: rare but powerful gatherings, a ritualized structure that maximizes interactions, and a mythos cultivated through its golden guestbook of political, cultural, and business icons.

For Gentleman Jungle, this is more than a club ; it is an experience of influence, excellence, and effectiveness.

Credit : Chinese Business Club
Credit : Harold Parisot

The essentials at a glance

Strength What it delivers
Elite membership 130+ companies, 90% renewal
Prestigious venues Paris’s most iconic hotels
High-level speakers Presidents, CEOs, artists, athletes
Real impact Direct introductions & visibility
Future-oriented Startups & new leaders included

Gentleman Jungle’s advice for navigating the Club

  • Arrive early: the first 30 minutes are often the most decisive.

  • Target three key encounters: quality over quantity.

  • Have your business card ready: small details leave a lasting impression.

  • Know how to pitch your company: a clear and refined introduction opens doors.
  • Follow up elegantly: the day after, send a concise message and propose a concrete next step.

  • Think long term: influence here is not instant, but cumulative.

At the Chinese Business Club, influence flows with discretion. Opportunities emerge naturally, and prestige comes from presence rather than proclamation.

For Gentleman Jungle, the Club stands as one of Paris’s most refined arenas where business and excellence meet, a privileged circle for those shaping tomorrow.

Credit : Gentleman Jungle

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Luxury Meets Music : The Story of Cercle Moment in Rio

Editorial
13/12/2024

Day 1: A Sophisticated Welcome

The journey begins at the iconic Fasano Hotel on Ipanema Beach, where guests are immediately enveloped in an atmosphere of elegance and style. With its modern architecture and sweeping views over the ocean and Sugarloaf Mountain, the Fasano sets the tone for what’s to come.

After a day to relax and explore at leisure, the evening takes guests to Aprazível, a renowned restaurant nestled in the artistic Santa Teresa neighborhood. Perched high above the city, the venue offers breathtaking views and a menu that celebrates Brazil’s finest flavors. This first evening strikes a perfect balance between sophistication and warmth, leaving guests eager for what’s next.

Day 2: The Pinnacle of Excellence

The second day delivers an unforgettable blend of adventure and luxury. Guests are offered a choice of activities that showcase Rio from its most stunning perspectives.

For those seeking thrills, a helicopter ride reveals the city’s extraordinary beauty from above. Soaring over the Christ the Redeemer statue, Sugarloaf Mountain, and the lush Tijuca Forest, this experience offers a panoramic view of Rio’s unique landscape—a breathtaking fusion of urban vibrancy and natural splendor. Alternatively, paragliding provides a more immersive way to take in the scenery, gliding through the sky with the city as a magnificent backdrop.

For those who prefer tranquility, the Fasano’s spa offers a sanctuary of relaxation with treatments designed to rejuvenate the body and mind.

In the afternoon, the journey takes a luxurious turn as guests board a yacht for a private party on the turquoise waters of Rio’s coastline. With exclusive sets by Ayla – Jessica Brankka and Amine Edge, the atmosphere is electric yet intimate. Every detail, from the curated artistic direction to the impeccable service, exemplifies Cercle Moment’s commitment to creating extraordinary experiences. This is not just a day of luxury; it is a celebration of excellence that leaves a lasting impression.

Day 3: Escape to Angra dos Reis

On the third day, the adventure moves to Angra dos Reis, an archipelago of over 300 islands with pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters. After a seamless transfer, guests arrive in a tropical paradise that feels far removed from the city.

The afternoon is left open for personal exploration—whether by embarking on a private boat tour, swimming in the emerald waters, or simply relaxing on a secluded beach.

As the sun sets, the magic of the evening unfolds with a private beach party, where the Cercle team delivers an exclusive DJ set crafted especially for the Momenters. In a gesture that feels intimate and personal, Cercle’s very own Music Director takes center stage, ensuring the music feels not only curated but deeply connected to the setting. The sense of « friends and family » is palpable, as if the evening were designed for an inner circle—authentic, exclusive, and truly one-of-a-kind.

Day 4: Connection and Celebration

The fourth day begins with a morning meditation session, offering guests a chance to reflect and recharge. Against the serene backdrop of nature, this moment of mindfulness sets the tone for the day.

The afternoon brings yet another extraordinary experience: a second boat party, this time aboard a typical Brazilian schooner, known as an Escuna. With its wooden charm and open deck, the boat perfectly reflects the local culture and adds a touch of authenticity to the adventure. Performances by Classmatic and Priscila Diaz elevate the experience, creating an atmosphere that is both vibrant and energizing. Every element—from the expertly crafted cocktails to the curated music—feels purposefully aligned.

Day 5: A Graceful Farewell

The final day offers a moment of quiet reflection as guests enjoy one last breakfast at the Fasano. It’s a chance to take in the view one last time and savor the lingering sense of wonder from the days before.

This farewell is understated yet profound, a fitting conclusion to an experience that has left an indelible mark. Rather than an ending, it feels like the beginning of memories that will be cherished for a lifetime.

A Cercle Moment is more than an event—it is a philosophy. It redefines luxury by blending culture, music, and nature into immersive experiences that transcend expectations. In Rio, every element—from the flawless logistics to the innovative programming—came together to create something truly extraordinary.

 

*The rhythm continues with Echoes of Mexico, from April 24th to 28th in the cultural heart of Mexico City : from soaring above Teotihuacán to exclusive Cercle Odyssey shows, all set against the backdrop of Aztec heritage and vibrant urban elegance. This is where curated soundscapes and timeless sophistication collide — an escape designed for those who seek the exceptional.*

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Living in Rome like an Imperatore at Bvlgari’s latest jewel

Editorial
24/11/2024

In the very heart of Rome since June 2023 lives a city within a city where the antique opulence of the ancient imperial capital seems to be reborn. The building hosting Bvlgari’s latest and most important hospitality gem, a 1936 rationalist building by architect Vittorio Ballio Morpurgo — recently “unearthed” by celebrated designers Antonio Citterio and Patricia Veil — is a world of intricate layers of both history and italianate design. It ascends from a marble underworld where an intimate spa à l’antique develops (think hand-crafted gold mosaic showers, Etruscan statues and massive, pool-plunging crenelated columns) to the earthy quality of its red-bricks roof terraces sprawling on two floors, deliciously reminiscent of Jep Gambardella’s party-pad in La Grande Bellezza. Unsurprisingly, it appears that two nights are just barely enough to discover this 14,000m² kingdom, almost covering a whole city block. It sits indeed like a quiet and magnificent ship in the city’s busy centre, and yet also faces one of the most tranquil, silent and otherworldly monument one can find in Rome; Augustus’ Mausoleum.

Little can prepare to the sense of wonder one gets when laying eyes on Rome’s first emperor’s solemn tomb. And yet this sensation never fades. I have been experiencing this sprawling ruin, covered with tall cypress trees, with the same, almost mystical quality whenever I had the chance to be in Rome (and when the Morpurgo building was still a sleeping beauty in a state of abandon). Bvlgari now offers the furthermore extraterrestrial experience to stand and gaze at this utmost roman view from what has become perhaps the most luscious and thought-after terrazza in the city, where you can sunbath in the morning as I did on this glorious autumn getaway or be pampered with Niko Romito’s kitchen and flowing Ruinart in the evening. On my first night, however, things got a little better than “just” champagne. I was indeed whisked shortly after my arrival to the building’s highest point to attend Bvlgari Symposia, an invitation from the hotelier for Handshake Speakeasy — currently named best bar in the world — to host a special night around their infamous cocktails coming all the way from from Mexico City. How sweet then was the night, travelling between dreams and reality and from Paris to both antique and modern Rome… then Mexico, all the while looking at one the most ancient cityscapes in the world.

Beware aesthetes! If you’re prone to frequent Stendhal syndromes, you might easily get struck as you enter the building through a made-to-measure circular room of mineral quality, focused around the striking representation of Augustus himself in a triumphal pose, looking directly at his own now more than 2,000 years old mausoleum. This full-body marble, coming straight from the prestigious Torlonia collection (the rest of it is currently on show at the Louvre until January 2025) has been painstakingly restored with the help of Bvlgari’s very own Fondazione and amongst other jewels of roman heritage.

This astonishing piece of history constitutes the first step towards the truly unlimited world of wonder that is the Bvlgari Roma, a masterwork of hospitality made of the rarest marbleswe’re in Rome after all) in symbiosis with the extremely soft, velvety feels of the rooms and suites (think cashmere curtains, scented white sheets, light wooden floor and, for every bathroom, a custom-made tiled mosaic crowning the bathtub…) Every room here is its own little empire, with everything made easy to understand, use and access, the art of the hotel room being definitely mastered con gusto. Breakfasts, casual lunches, teas and dinners can be enjoyed in the downstairs [Il] Caffè and under the travertine colonnades or upstairs in the upscale restaurant, but were personally enjoyed in-room, where the terrace was incongruously where I spend the most time — a beautiful square, palm tree-lined terrace fitted with sofas and beautiful lighting where I could have assuredly stayed indefinitely with a glass of wine and cigars, if it wasn’t for Rome calling so hard at my footstep. I allowed myself seldom escapes from this oneiric citadel indeed — one was an attempt to look for sun screen at the closest farmacia as the temperatures were reaching an astonishing 30° Celsius in the morning, the other constituted a comeback to the pure, ethereal Ara Pacis that I had visited years prior, an altar built to the glory of Augustus in 9 BC and sheltered by the delicate, white architecture of American architect Richard Meier (in fact so transparent that the Bvlgari terraces left just minutes ago could be seen from within the ruin itself).
Outside, my steps also eventually lead me to the historical via Condotti, where Bvlgari has been holding fort at nº10 a remarkable 140 years. Back at the hotel, I recognise the boutique’s distinctive facade in the pictures lining the walls. They speak of the Dolce Vita’s heydays that Bvlgari very much helped shaping and now is preserving. Stemming from the brand’s own expansive archives, they dreamingly display the likes of Audrey Hepburn, Anita Ekberg or the timeless Sophia Loren all converging to this same central point of both roman and jewellery history that is Bvlgari.
A significant chapter of Bvlgari’s history is finally being written with the opening of this grand roman building. The brand’s long-expected hospitality outpost in the city that has seen it rise from a late 19th century jewellery shop to a world icon synonymous with the city, its architecture as well as its brightest movie stars has indeed found a more-than-suitable home to express its values with. Bvlgari has always reflected Rome’s beauty through its elaborate and hypnotic jewels, and assuredly no other brand feels more roman than Bvlgari does. Its history is so tightly linked to the eternal city that they both inevitably and constantly merge, one unable to be separated from the other. This promise of faith is now being sealed in eternity and in the precious marble of this true flagship building, already an icon of hospitality in the city’s stimulating landscape. Both the city and the hotel’s endless layers are now calling for succinct and hedonistic discovery and will appeal for certain to all aesthetes and above all to Rome lovers.

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