Latest news with #luxuryliving
Fox News
13 hours ago
- Business
- Fox News
A $300M luxury doomsday bunker has AI doctors and robotic staff
As global uncertainty grows, many of the world's wealthiest individuals are looking beyond gated communities and private security teams. Instead, they're turning to luxury doomsday bunkers that promise not just safety, but comfort and peace of mind. Traditional alarm systems and exclusive neighborhoods no longer feel sufficient. For this group, the goal is to find a solution that covers every angle, offering privacy, advanced protection and a sense of normalcy, no matter what's happening above ground. Sign up for my FREE CyberGuy ReportGet my best tech tips, urgent security alerts and exclusive deals delivered straight to your inbox. Plus, you'll get instant access to my Ultimate Scam Survival Guide — free when you join. In the summer of 2026, SAFE, short for Strategically Armored & Fortified Environments, will open the doors to Aerie, a $300 million underground sanctuary near Washington, D.C. SAFE has made a name for itself by creating some of the world's most extravagant security features for private homes and yachts, but Aerie takes things to a whole new level. This isn't just a bunker. It's a private club where luxury and security come together, offering members a safe haven that doesn't compromise on style or amenities. Aerie is just the beginning. SAFE plans to expand this concept to 50 cities across the United States, with an eye on 1,000 affiliate locations worldwide. The idea is that members will always have access to a familiar, secure place to stay, no matter where their travels take them. It's about making sure that, even far from home, members can count on a consistent level of safety, privacy and comfort. Walking into Aerie, you'll find an environment that feels nothing like the cold, concrete bunkers you might expect. The residences are surrounded by fortified rock and protected by layers of biometric security, tactical mantras and SCIF-compliant spaces for total privacy. The only above-ground feature is a rooftop penthouse, while everything else is tucked deep underground. Thanks to interactive walls and creative lighting, it feels like you're enjoying panoramic city views, even though you're far below the surface. Living spaces start at 2,000 square feet and can stretch to more than 20,000 square feet, with every detail customizable to the owner's preferences. Aerie isn't just about staying safe; it's about staying well. Each location features AI-powered medical suites called MediShield, which connect members to medical specialists around the clock and provide intensive care if needed. Naomi Corbi, SAFE's director of medical preparedness, says wellness is a top priority for many clients. That's why Aerie includes hyperbaric chambers for oxygen therapy, ice plunge rooms to help with recovery, IV therapy for hydration and immune support and even AI-powered massage rooms to keep residents feeling their best during extended stays underground. Technology is at the heart of Aerie's approach to privacy and security. SAFE's systems give owners complete control over their environment, from tracking assets to spotting potential problems, even in homes with large, ever-changing staff. Every part of Aerie is designed to keep members' information and safety protected, so they can do business or unwind without worry. Al Corbi, SAFE's founder, says the idea for Aerie came from clients who, even with fortified homes and yachts, felt exposed when traveling. The solution is a global network of bunkers where members can always find a secure, luxurious place to stay, no matter where they are. With features like blast-resistant walls, ballistic glass and rapid evacuation elevators, Aerie is built to handle everything from civil unrest to the most extreme emergencies. Joining Aerie is not for the faint of wallet. Residences in the complex can cost up to $20 million each, depending on size and customization. The membership-based club offers a range of options, from individual suites to sprawling multi-level penthouses. The $300 million price tag for the first location reflects the scale and ambition of the project, and SAFE's plans for a global network mean that members are buying into a lifestyle and a worldwide safety net, not just a single property. Aerie is blending high-end living with advanced wellness and top-tier security. As concerns about safety and stability continue to grow, Aerie's approach is likely to appeal to those who want to be ready for anything. For the ultra-wealthy, Aerie could soon become the ultimate address for peace of mind, exclusivity and a new kind of luxury living. If price wasn't an issue, would you be open to living in a luxury underground bunker with all the comforts and security you could want? Let us know by writing to us at For more of my tech tips and security alerts, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter by heading to Follow Kurt on his social channels Answers to the most asked CyberGuy questions: New from Kurt: Copyright 2025 All rights reserved.
Telegraph
a day ago
- Lifestyle
- Telegraph
Six hacks that will make your home look more expensive
Comfortable, elevated and considered… many of us would love these three words to sum up our homes. The sense of effortless luxury that you find in a chic boutique hotel – the kind of place where the bed is always beautifully made and nestling into an armchair feels like receiving a bear hug – is the goal. But the demands of everyday life can make these scenes feel far from reach. Reassuringly, this is often the reality even in the homes of the professionals. The interior designer Ali Childs, founder of Studio Alexandra, is the mother of two small children aged three and one, and admits: 'There's almost no point having anything nice, because it just gets ruined.' Her sofa is ancient and her hallway is a holding pen for numerous vehicles with wheels. But there are simple styling hacks which can make any home look and feel more premium, and the good news is that they don't require you to remortgage in order to reap the rewards. Simple updates to touch points such as light switches or handles, your choice of paint finish, the positioning of a rug or what you fill your cushions with all have the potential to make a big impact. Here, Childs demonstrates how turning your attention to different pockets of the home can go a long way in making it feel more high-end. Switch up your cushions One of Childs' least costly hacks is to swap polyester cushion inserts, which can look limp and lifeless, for plump feather pads (John Lewis has a good selection, from £8). 'I whack them on both sides and then do a gentle judo chop,' says Childs, referring to her plumping technique. Allergy-permitting, feather cushions are firmer to lean against and will fill out a cover confidently (another trick is to choose a size slightly bigger than your cushion cover, to really fill it out) – all of which will make your armchair look that bit more welcoming. Upgrade your paint finish Your hallway sets the tone for the rest of the house, and it's a transitionary space that you tend to move through rather than spend time in – which means you can push the envelope a little when it comes to colour and styling. Childs' narrow hallway – painted a few years ago in a matte white emulsion – had fallen victim to marks on the walls and bashed skirting boards, thanks to a stream of bicycles and prams passing through. It's her least favourite part of the house, 'and because it's so tiny, I thought: 'Why not do something fun?'' she says. Landing on a deep shade of pink (Nicaragua by natural paint brand Edward Bulmer), she opted for a gloss finish with 80 per cent sheen, which is wipeable. She painted the hallway over a weekend using a roller brush: 'Make sure you sand the walls and use a primer, but never use a paintbrush, as it shows up the bristle marks,' she advises to get the application right. With a 2.5-litre tin (costing £90), she wrapped the colour around the ceiling, the front door and all the woodwork for a cocooning effect. 'The hallway is darker than it was previously, but it's just a space we walk into, and there's something special about how the light bounces off it,' she says, admiring the finish. As a consequence, her feelings about it have shifted: 'I'm quite into it – it now has a sense of drama,' she admits. Elevate the essentials Granted, the sink isn't usually the star feature of a kitchen, but when it commands a central spot – in Childs' case, in front of a window overlooking the back garden – the eye is instinctively drawn to it. Adding order to what can quickly become congested with cloths, products and brushes is easy: Childs recently upgraded her usual plastic bottles of dish and hand soap to a pair of glass dispensers from Zara Home (£39.99). The smart duo – labelled 'hands' and 'dishes' – are set on a metal stand, which allows for drainage and has a slot in between the bottles for a sponge. 'It makes the worktop feel more pulled together – even my husband noticed,' Childs laughs. She also rates H&M for equally good-looking vessels to decant everyday essentials into. 'I'm no longer distracted by horrible bottles, and it makes the area feel more considered. Think about how your daily utilities or tools can feel that bit nicer to use,' she says. Clear the clutter This impactful idea requires zero expenditure whatsoever; simply 'shop' your own things and embrace a less-is-more mantra when styling shelves and ledges. Childs' kitchen shelves had fallen prey to the detritus of everyday life: a bottle of Calpol here, a scrap of paper there. In clearing the surfaces and tucking daily bits and bobs into a cupboard, she has created space for a display of cookbooks and chopping boards that she reaches for daily, as well as ceramics and an artwork. Her tip for acquiring the art for arranging pieces is 'to be careful not to pack it with too much stuff, otherwise it looks too messy'. She adds: 'You also have to think about scale – if you have a high shelf, then you don't want small knick-knacks up there. Taller and bigger items work best.' Childs is a fan of stacking books both vertically and horizontally, as the latter creates a surface at an extra level for a plant or candle. Experimenting and rotating what you display month on month can also help keep a corner of the home looking fresh. 'Cherry-pick the items that you're most proud of and enjoy looking at,' she suggests. If in doubt, size up Confidently scaling up to size XXL across various accessories is a trick which never fails to create impact: a wide mount will make a framed artwork look more precious; a generous lamp base will transform an otherwise unremarkable shade, and a large mirror – even in a tiny WC – will ramp up the ambience. Never deviate from this school of thought when choosing a rug, as one that's too small will result in the room's furniture looking as if it is floating around. 'It's nicer to have a rug fill as much of the space as you possibly can, because it anchors everything in the room. The aim is for it to extend under a sofa and any armchairs, and skirt the hearth,' Childs explains. Persian-style rugs are great for masking crumbs, while seagrass versions are so neutral they work anywhere, and can be easily extended as they come stitched in squares. A patterned style, such as the one Childs has from Shame Studios, can also help to tie in colours from curtains and cushions. Dress up the sofa Maybe you're saving up for a new sofa, or you have pets or – like Childs – small children intent on smearing their snacks across your current one, making splashing out on a new one pointless. The remedy? Mask it with an array of good-quality soft furnishings. 'Cushions and throws are a good way of adding a bit of 'zhuzh',' says Childs, who goes super-size with a throw in order to be able to drape it over the back of the sofa and push the sofa up against the wall to keep it in place. Hers is a patterned style from Amechi Home 'which really brightens up our boring, black sofa. Nice throws are not necessarily cheap, but they do make a difference to your interiors,' she says (and, of course, they can double-up as blankets in the winter). She has repeated her cushion-pad hack here, all of which adds to the feel of being in a premium environment – no reno needed.
Khaleej Times
2 days ago
- Business
- Khaleej Times
The case for creating locally branded residences in Dubai
While international names have dominated the branded residence space, the next evolution should come from within. The region, particularly the UAE, is home to powerful, trusted brands that resonate deeply with local and international audiences. Imagine residences shaped by the precision and elegance of Rivoli Group, the horological heritage of Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons, the accessibility-meets-style ethos of Splash, or the innovation and connectivity DNA of Etisalat. The creative vision of Rami Al Ali, whose couture elevates fashion to an art form; the global influence of Huda Beauty, a brand that has redefined beauty standards and consumer engagement; and the sustainability-driven ethos of The Giving Movement, which merges conscious lifestyle with style, all exemplify powerful brands born in the UAE. Even an Emirates-branded living experience could redefine premium lifestyle in the skies and on the ground. Such brands are cultural touchstones, and leveraging them for branded residences would localize luxury and elevate it with relevance, trust, and emotional alignment. Untapped brand loyalty and cross-vertical integration While premiums on branded residences are well-documented, few developers are fully leveraging the lifetime loyalty potential of buyers already engaged with the brand in other sectors. Imagine loyalty points or benefits that link a branded residence to airline miles from Emirates, telecom privileges from Etisalat, or exclusive retail access from Splash. This kind of cross-vertical synergy turns the residence into part of a brand journey—not just a home. Developers that build these bridges could unlock powerful retention, upsell, and community-building tools that most luxury projects are missing. Local identity, global standards The strength of local branding lies in its ability to blend cultural familiarity with world-class delivery. A branded residence by a regional icon is not a compromise on global appeal—it's a fusion of cultural specificity and luxury. When executed correctly, local brands bring hospitality norms, service rituals, and design language that feel organic to residents while meeting global expectations. Arabic calligraphy in shared spaces, regionally-inspired spa concepts, or hospitality rooted in majlis-style hosting traditions are not decorative—they're deeply functional and emotionally resonant. Competitive differentiation in a saturated landscape In markets like Dubai, where international branded residences are proliferating fast, local brand collaborations offer differentiation with depth. They avoid the fatigue of global sameness. While many projects now boast a fashion or automotive brand, few can claim emotional ownership of place. A local brand brings with it heritage, trust, and market familiarity. This attracts not only regional buyers but also appeals to international investors seeking a more authentic and deeply connected experience in the market they invest in. Economic multiplier effects Investing in locally branded residences also stimulates local economic ecosystems. Collaborative projects create value chains across design, marketing, operations, and retail that remain within the region. A partnership with a local brand can drive demand across the brand's core business. For example, a Rivoli-branded residence could open in-house boutiques, watch clubs, or service centers that generate parallel revenue. A real estate tie-up with The Giving Movement could integrate sustainable lifestyle amenities and retail that attract eco-conscious residents. The idea is to transform the branded residence from a static asset into a living commercial ecosystem. The emotional edge: Trust, legacy, and belonging Trust in a brand often takes years—if not decades—to build. Regional icons like Emirates or Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons have spent generations cultivating that credibility. When that trust is transferred into the residential experience, it creates instant emotional equity. More than buying a space, residents would be joining a legacy. An emotional edge of this nature can't be manufactured overnight, nor can it be easily matched by imported names. In a post-pandemic world where belonging and meaning matter more than ever, local brands can offer a level of emotional permanence that global names often can't replicate. Future-ready localism As consumer expectations shift toward sustainability, digital readiness, and cultural intelligence, local brands may be better positioned to respond quickly. They are closer to the market, understand regional nuances, and often operate with more agility than global conglomerates. A branded residence co-developed with a regional telecom like Etisalat could lead the market in smart infrastructure. A collaboration with Home Centre could redefine affordable-luxury housing with fashion-forward interiors and wellness-focused amenities at scale. Locally branded residences go beyond national pride and reflect a strategic commitment to future readiness. The writers are founders of DRE, a real estate brokerage firm operating in Dubai since 2007.
Zawya
3 days ago
- Business
- Zawya
Object 1 launches 54-storey residential tower in JVC
Object 1, a key real estate developer in Dubai, has announced the launch of Alta View, a 54-storey residential tower set in District 10 of Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC). Designed to bring panoramic perspectives and serene elegance to everyday life, Alta View represents the next chapter in Object 1's commitment to lifestyle-focused, purpose-driven, and globally-minded real estate narrative. The development is scheduled for completion in Q4 2028 and includes a mix of studio, one-, and two-bedroom apartments, complemented by expansive terraces and sky-high amenities. Spanning 46 residential floors, Alta View has been designed to elevate every day with resort-style living, said the developer. Alta View's interiors emphasise clarity and openness. In the residences, floor-to-ceiling windows invite natural light into every room, while ergonomic layouts offer a smooth flow between living, dining, and sleeping areas, it stated. High-quality finishes, contemporary kitchens, and stylish bathrooms elevate the everyday, making each space feel luxurious yet practical. Every detail, from spacious terraces to smart systems, is crafted to offer privacy, serenity, and timeless elegance, it added. Object 1 said, on completion, Alta View Skyhomes is set to become one of the tallest buildings in JVC, rooted in the concept of "Life Above It All." Alta View Skyhomes is a reimagination of modern living, combining intentional design with a deep connection to light, nature, and space. With eco-conscious architecture integrated throughout, each residence is built to provide both comfort and quiet sophistication. Located in one of Dubai's most dynamic and family-centric communities, JVC continues to attract residents and investors alike, with apartment prices climbing by 12% in the last year alone. "The market today is shaped by people who want more than square footage; they want meaning, connection, and seamless functionality," remarked Tatiana Tonu, the CEO of Object 1. "Alta View is our answer to this new lifestyle mindset. It combines elevated design with grounded comfort, offering a truly distinctive skyline presence in JVC. With panoramic views, immersive nature-inspired elements, and a world-class suite of amenities, it's a sanctuary in the sky for those who seek beauty, privacy, and intentionality in how they live," she stated. With quick access to major highways like Al Khail Road and Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road, as well as leading schools and nurseries, JVC stands out as one of Dubai's most active, family-friendly real estate hubs. Nearby landmarks such as Circle Mall, Palm Jumeirah, and City Centre Me'aisem further enhance its appeal. The area's strong market performance underscores the ideal timing for Alta View's launch, aligning with growing buyer interest in well-connected communities offering long-term capital appreciation. Its affordability, strong rental demand, and proximity to key business districts make it especially appealing to young professionals, she added. According to her, residents will get to enjoy access to a comprehensive range of indoor and outdoor amenities. These include a Lagoon-style pool, water slide, Aqua & Sand oasis, kids' pool, outdoor and indoor play areas, a gym, clubhouse, BBQ area, tennis courts, table tennis zone, outdoor CrossFit setup, and lush landscaped gardens. For everyday convenience, the development will also feature retail outlets on the ground level, offering easy access to essential goods and services, she added.-TradeArabia News Service Copyright 2024 Al Hilal Publishing and Marketing Group Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Zawya
3 days ago
- Business
- Zawya
Oia Properties expands presence in Abu Dhabi with new office in Saadiyat
With its unique combination of luxury living and cultural depth, Saadiyat continues to be the most attractive investment destinaton in Abu Dhabi FDI into Abu Dhabi grew 125% in Q1 2025 y-o-y, with Saadiyat attracting AED 5.6bn of investment Abu Dhabi, UAE – Oia Properties is excited to announce the opening of its new office in Saadiyat, marking its second location in the Capital and fourth in the UAE. This expansion underscores the company's remarkable success since its inception in 2021 and its ongoing plans for growth, with a team already surpassing 250 in head count. It also reinforces the brand's proud commitment to providing clients with unparalleled local insight and expertise in Abu Dhabi, including Saadiyat, which continues to be Abu Dhabi's most successful and sought-after residential district, attracting AED 5.6bn of foreign investent in Q1 2025. The new office at Soho Square, Saadiyat, will enable Oia Properties to better serve its global client base by offering in-depth knowledge of the local real estate market, particularly in Saadiyat, which has gained prominence this year as a hub for Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), which according to latest reports, has grown as much as 125% year-on-year. This growth is driven by ongoing new developments, such as Al Fahid Island, and exciting cultural and leisure announcements, including the forthcoming Disneyland. "Our new office in Saadiyat will enhance our ability to connect clients with the best investment opportunities in this proven and highly popular area," said Riyad Magdy, Founder, at Oia Properties. "Saadiyat is not just a beautiful location; it represents a unique blend of luxury living, culture, and investment potential. We have been encouraged about the sharp rise in foreign and local investment into Abu Dhabi's real estate market over the past 12 months, which illustrates growing global trust in the Capital's real estate policies, including Golden Visas, guaranteed ownership rights and regulatory transparency.' Heightened demand supports ongoing and planned projects across mainstream and off-plan markets. As part of its commitment to client success, here the Oia Properties team rounds-up the top ten off-plan investment opportunities in Saadiyat, which are currently attracting attention from end users and investors alike. Mandarin Oriental Residences – Offering 1-4 bedroom apartments with world-class amenities, starting at AED 6,200,000. Mamsha Gardens – Eco-friendly apartments and townhouses starting at AED 3,100,000, ideal for remote workers. The Source Terraces – Wellness-focused living with 1-4 bedroom options starting at AED 3,000,000. Mamsha Al Saadiyat – Direct beachfront access with luxury apartments and penthouses starting at AED 3,000,000. The Arthouse – A creative sanctuary with stunning views, starting at AED 3,300,000. The Source II – Sustainable living options starting at AED 2,800,000. Manarat Living III – Modern apartments with a vibrant atmosphere starting at AED 730,000. Louvre Abu Dhabi Residences – Artistic interiors with prices starting at AED 1,300,000. Grove Museum Views – Nature-inspired living starting at AED 1,400,000. Nouran Living – A dynamic coastal community starting at AED 750,000. With its unique combination of luxury living and cultural depth and richness, Saadiyat continues to be one of the most attractive destinations for investors looking to capitalize on Abu Dhabi's growth. About Oia Properties Founded in 2021, Oia Properties has quickly established itself as a trusted name in the real estate market, specializing in residential properties throughout Abu Dhabi. With a focus on client satisfaction and market expertise, Oia Properties is committed to guiding clients through their real estate journey. For media queries: Sophie Toh | Mercury Projects | sophie@
