In the heart of Santorini, Greece, where man-made splendor meets the breathtaking beauty of nature, lies Magma Resort Santorini — a triumph of luxury and architectural excellence. Crafted by the visionary team at PEOPLE, this award-winning project has redefined the standards of luxury resort architecture, earning accolades and admiration from across the globe.

A Symphony of Contradictory Complements

Nestled near the picturesque village of Vourvoulos, Magma Resort Santorini seamlessly blends into its surroundings, surrounded by traditional ‘pezoules’: large areas of cultivated land that follow geographic altitudes and are formed with stone walls. The design philosophy behind this architectural marvel revolves around the interplay of contradictory yet complementary elements, paying homage to Santorini’s unique setting and cultural heritage.

An Architectural Marvel

Magma Resort Santorini isn’t just a hotel — it’s a testament to innovation and creativity. Organic shapes crafted from black volcanic stones follow the curved contour lines of the terrain, creating a landscape that mirrors the island’s natural beauty. Off-white prisms, reminiscent of Santorini’s volcanic ash, punctuate the scenery, adding a touch of elegance and sophistication to the overall design.

Blurring Boundaries

One of the most remarkable features of Magma Resort Santorini is its ability to blur the boundaries between the natural and built environment. Stone walls, inspired by traditional pezoules, not only define the landscape but also create unique spaces for guests to explore and enjoy. From cave-like entrances to open-air terraces, every corner of the resort tells a story of innovation and ingenuity.

A Commitment to Sustainability

At the heart of Magma Resort Santorini lies a deep commitment to sustainability and responsible development. From using locally sourced materials to embracing bioclimatic architecture, every aspect of the project has been carefully curated to minimize its environmental footprint. The result is a space that not only delights guests but also respects the planet.

Innovating for the Future

Magma Resort Santorini is a testament to the power of innovation and forward-thinking design. By embracing the latest technology and trends, the resort caters to the evolving needs of modern travelers, offering a tranquil space for leisure and business alike. With high energy efficiency systems and cutting-edge MEP design, Magma Resort Santorini sets a new standard for sustainable luxury.

A Destination Like No Other

From its stunning architecture to its unparalleled amenities, Magma Resort Santorini is truly a destination like no other. Whether you’re exploring the winding pathways or relaxing in one of the luxurious suites, every moment at the resort is an experience to be cherished. The resort offers a myriad of experiences, from relaxing spa treatments to exhilarating outdoor adventures, ensuring that every guest’s stay is nothing short of extraordinary.

About PEOPLE

PEOPLE is a pioneering architectural firm known for its innovative approach to design and sustainability. With offices strategically located in the UK, Greece, and the UAE, PEOPLE boasts a diverse team of experts united by a shared commitment to excellence. Through their innovative approach, they have reshaped the realm of luxury resort architecture, crafting spaces that captivate and enchant.

Their integrated approach, combining cutting-edge technology with a deep respect for tradition and sustainability, has resulted in the creation of Magma Resort Santorini — a masterpiece that pushes the boundaries of luxury hospitality. PEOPLE has been honored with the esteemed accolade for Best Luxury Resort Architecture by Luxury Lifestyle Awards, in recognition of this groundbreaking project. To learn more about Magma Resort Santorini and PEOPLE, please visit https://www.people-b.com/

Founded in 2015, Miguel Câncio Martins – Architecture & Design Lda. (MCM Architecture & Design) has swiftly emerged as a frontrunner in architecture and design. Headquartered in the vibrant city of Lisbon, their multidisciplinary studio comprises a dynamic team of young professionals and seasoned experts dedicated to shaping inspiring spaces that transcend boundaries.

MCM Architecture & Design won a Luxury Lifestyle Awards in 2024 for Best Luxury Hotel Architecture for Mamula Island Hotel in Montenegro. WESTUDIO masterfully crafted the interior design narrative of Mamula Island, creating a coveted, sophisticated space.

At MCM Architecture & Design, they break traditional norms by blending different business areas to craft complete experiences. They work in architecture/design, real estate development, and hospitality, combining them to redefine luxury living and enhance experiences.

Imagine a place where history whispers through the walls, effortlessly intertwined with modern luxury. This is the essence of Mamula Island Hotel, a captivating retreat situated amidst the breathtaking vistas of Montenegro’s Boka Bay.

Transformed from a meticulously restored 19th-century fort, the hotel boasts both architectural brilliance and sustainable restoration practices.  Every detail, from the moment you set foot on the island, beckons you on a journey that transcends the ordinary.

The mastermind behind this architectural marvel is the renowned Miguel Câncio Martins. Hailing from Portugal, Miguel Câncio Martins’ illustrious career showcases his exceptional vision and passion for his work.  After graduating from the prestigious architecture school at St Luc in Brussels, he embarked on a journey that would solidify his reputation as a leader in the design world.  His early work in Paris, manifesting iconic restaurant concepts like Buddha Bar and Man Ray, demonstrated his unique ability to blend form and function into captivating spaces.  With each subsequent project, including international landmarks like the Conrad Resort in Algarve and The Hotel W in Montréal, Miguel Câncio Martins pushed boundaries and garnered acclaim.

Mamula Island Hotel represents the culmination of Miguel Câncio Martins’ expertise.  Located on the pristine shores of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the hotel is a celebration of heritage.  Every brick, every wall, and every feature within the carefully restored fort has been preserved, honoring the island’s rich cultural tapestry.  This devotion to sustainability extends beyond the structure itself.  The hotel integrates modern amenities with a focus on environmental responsibility, ensuring a luxurious experience that treads lightly on the land.

Stepping onto Mamula Island, guests are instantly enveloped in an aura of sophisticated elegance.  The fort’s historic charm is masterfully juxtaposed with sleek, modern design elements, creating an atmosphere that is both inviting and captivating.  The talented team at MCM Architecture & Design, led by Miguel Câncio Martins himself, meticulously brought this vision to life.  Their expertise is evident in every detail, from the hotel’s sleek exterior façade to the opulent interiors adorned with bespoke furnishings.  Local Cevski stone, aged brass, and solid oak combine with organic textiles and artwork by local artists, creating a harmonious dialogue between heritage and contemporary design.

Beyond the visual spectacle, Mamula Island Hotel offers a haven for the senses.  Imagine lounging by the infinity pool, the azure waters of the Adriatic Sea stretching out before you.  Indulge in a rejuvenating treatment at the hotel’s holistic spa, designed to promote 360-degree wellness.  For the culinary enthusiast, a variety of restaurants await, each offering a unique gastronomic adventure.  Whether it’s fresh, locally sourced seafood or innovative international cuisine, your taste buds will be tantalized.

For those seeking a truly unique experience, Mamula Island Hotel offers more than just luxury accommodations.  The island boasts a private beach, perfect for sunbathing and soaking up the Montenegrin sunshine.  History buffs will appreciate the on-site memorial gallery, a poignant reminder of the island’s past.  Explore the hidden nooks and crannies of the fort, or simply relax on a secluded terrace, taking in the breathtaking panoramic views.  Mamula Island caters to a variety of interests, ensuring an unforgettable experience for every guest.

Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway to celebrate a special occasion, a family vacation filled with adventure, or a corporate retreat that fosters creativity and connection, Mamula Island Hotel offers the perfect sanctuary. Beyond the striking amenities and stunning setting, Mamula Island offers a sense of place – a connection to the rich tapestry of Montenegro’s history. 

So, come, embark on a journey of discovery, and immerse yourself in the splendor of this coveted retreat. Visit https://mcmarchitecture.com/ for more.

Franklite continues to introduce products from its Anniversary Edition. Launched earlier this year and the first of its kind, this special edition includes many new products along with a number of existing popular ranges.

Featuring luxury statement pieces such as the Victoria, Cleopatra, Celestial and Icicle ranges. Delicate and unique designs adorned with crystals and glass which subtly refract the light. These opulent fittings are available in various sizes. Often paired with their matching wall lights, these ranges are perfectly designed for luxury interior settings.

The Windsor range complements most interiors with its cream textured shades and a choice of two finishes. The three and five light pendants are supplied with a chain suspension which can be shortened to accommodate low ceilings. This range also includes a matching wall light.    

The Tudor is a range of contemporary chandeliers. The impressive ring design in matt black finish is available in three sizes and includes a matching wall light.

Suitable for interior and exterior use is the Charleston wall lights. In matt black and aged brass finish with clear ribbed glass these wall lights are available in two sizes.

IP44 rated ranges Globe and Stellar allow clients to mix and match from single or double wall lights and pendants in a choice of finishes with a selection of various glass options creating fittings to suit any interior including bathrooms. For more information about the Anniversary Edition and the new product ranges contact the Customer Care team on 01908691818 or visit www.franklite.co.uk

Mister Shut based in Modugno (BA) has been operating in the armored door production sector since 1987. At the basis of the company policy is the commitment and enthusiasm of people who have been able to transform a small business into a leading company in the sector. “Innovation as the main tool of differentiation” for mister shut, this reflection translates into a continuous search for solutions and variations capable of offering its customers concrete answers to any need in a constantly evolving market.

The technology, projects, workforce and common commitment that characterize the production cycle are able to guarantee a high quality and safety standard without underestimating the value of aesthetic and performance customization

of the product entirely made in Italy.

Mister Shut has wanted to undertake, since the early years, a cutting-edge path based on the principle of continuous research into materials, technologies and design compatible with the constraints imposed by the performance standards of current regulations

in terms of anti-intrusion and anti-burglary. This particular attention to the product has given rise to multiple and important national and international collaborations to redefine the design of products and push them beyond the most current trends, collaborating with architects and attending trade fairs. Among the most relevant, we mention the one with the architect A. Castiglioni, author of the "Touch" project: a study aimed at creating innovative products with a refined design.

“the ideal door is the perfect combination of safety, functionality and elegance”.

The company has expanded the concept of security doors, transforming an exclusively functional element into a furnishing accessory. The door is no longer a product that simply separates rooms but becomes a product that stands out as an icon of style and personality, managing to enhance any surrounding context. All this is made possible thanks to a highly flexible and specialized staff, the support of IT systems and advanced technology and the precious collaboration with national and international figures.

Calypso Bathrooms, leading premium British bathroom furniture brand, proudly launches its highly anticipated spring collection for 2024. Expanding upon the brand’s already extensive offerings, the launch provides design-led homeowners with an even broader selection of high-quality, trend-led bathroom furniture solutions.

The launch brings texture to the forefront of bathroom design with the introduction of the horizontally fluted Petra, and Levanto Fluted vanity collections. The launch also includes three brand new LED mirrors, Adria, Andrina, and Ostra, which play with shape, and a carefully curated array of new furniture, finishes, brassware, ceramics, and hardware, seamlessly blending traditional style with modern functionality.

Charlotte Tilby, Head of Marketing at Calypso Bathrooms, provides valuable insights into five key trends and products from the latest collection.

1. Wonderful Woodgrains

The desire for spa like bathrooms has been rapidly growing in recent years with homeowners opting for natural woodgrain finishes, and gentle, rounded lines in bathroom design. This shift has also seen an increasing demand for texture in bathroom furniture such as fluted and slatted wood.

Calypso’s new Petra vanity collection offers mid-century sophistication with modern elegance and is available as wall-hung vanity units in two sizes and a matching fluted Tall Wall Unit, available in Coral White, Tortona Oak, and Persian Walnut finishes. The Levanto wave-fronted vanity range also receives a modern update, now available in new layout configurations and finishes with a fluted front design that further enhances the appeal of this popular range.

2. Seamless Spaces

Increasingly, the boundaries between bath, bed, and dressing spaces are blurring, akin to the open-plan concept seen in kitchen, dining, and living areas. As such, cohesive matching furniture across the home has driven demand for a wider array of colour options and finishes in the bathroom than ever before. Think matching your three-piece en-suite to your chest of drawers or wardrobe to create a feeling of expansion and connection throughout the more restful areas of your home.

Earthy greens and aquatic blues take the spotlight alongside softer cashmeres and neutrals with pink undertones. Matte finishes have also gained popularity for their tactile, light-diffusing properties, fostering a gentle ambience.

3. Mirror, Mirror



Accessories play a crucial role in transforming a space, such as strategically positioning mirrors to enhance lighting and create a more inviting atmosphere. Modern LED mirrors have become the go-to-choice amongst homeowners, as they are fantastic at enriching bathroom spaces with soft, ambient lighting and making compact spaces seem more spacious.

Calypso introduces three new LED Mirror ranges, available in a variety of sizes. Each mirror comes equipped with energy-efficient demister pads, ensuring a fog-free experience. These mirrors feature adaptive lighting options, allowing for effortless adjustment of LED brightness and temperature to create the perfect ambience, blending functionality with style.

4. Modern Heritage

Homeowners prefer lasting investments over frequent changes, focusing on durable, timeless designs. While paint and decor updates are simple, thoughtful selection of fittings is crucial, especially in less reversible areas like bathrooms. This trend involves updating traditional items with modern colours or finishes, especially in brassware, where alternatives compete with traditional chrome. These finishes subtly modernise bathrooms, even in heritage-style spaces.

5. Do-able Updates

There has been a notable increase in demand for ‘partial refurbs’ over full bathroom redesigns in recent times, with homeowners favouring accessible, simple, updates that cause minimal disruption and create more space in even the most compact of bathrooms. Updating the vanity, adding a mirror, or simply swapping out hardware have become popular solutions, offering a significant transformation without the need for extensive renovations. Within the launch, Calypso provide an array of space-saving product designs that enhance style and functionality while optimising space.

The bathroom is one of the most important spaces in our homes,  it is not just a mere wash space, but a place that many of us use to relax and unwind. We talk to Phil Etherden, Managing Director behind Essex-based The Albion Bath Co, about what sets their luxurious products apart from the competition.

When we launched The Albion Bath Co in 1996, our mission since conception has been to create the ultimate in luxurious bath tubs that combine the best qualities of cast iron but with modern technology. Back then, there were only two materials that were available at the time; acrylic and cast iron. Acrylic, which is a soft plastic, became popular in the 1970’s due to ease of manufacture and low cost. However, acrylic’s properties fell short of what the customer wanted, whether it was an issue with its strength, overall look, or the fact it was easy to scratch. These shortcomings remain true to this day.

Most of our baths and all of our vanity units can be colour matched to any Farrow & Ball or Dulux Trade colour, meaning customers can make their tub the star of the show with a bold stand-out shade, or choose to coordinate their bath with their vanity and the surrounding bathroom decor.  All we need is a colour code or name and we’ll do the rest.  The spraying process gives a smooth finish with a slight sheen.  It is hard wearing, washable and if you fancy a change of colour in the future, the surface can be painted over.

Cast Iron baths have been used for over 120 years. Although often considered as the ‘real thing’, cast iron has many drawbacks, such as excessive weight, incredible heat loss from the bathing water and are also prone to surface chipping. Homeowners also found that liquid cleaners would ruin the white interior surface.  So, after two years of intensive development, I formed a new unique material, Iso-Enamel. This was developed from an amalgam of special minerals and stone powders, which ensures that our baths will retain heat in the bathing water, giving bathers the ultimate luxurious experience for longer. It is also less than half the weight of cast iron – so customers can have the cast iron look without having to spend hundreds on reinforcing their bathroom floor. Believe it or not, the average weight of an Albion tub is a mere 70kg.

Our exclusive material will happily stand up to all cleaning products, even limescale removers, with no fear of discolouration, scratching or chipping. Over the years it has allowed us to faithfully recreate the shapes of iconic classical bath designs that other manufacturing materials simply cannot accommodate.

Every single Albion bath is handmade in our UK-based factory. We are passionate about preserving manufacturing in the UK. By being involved at every stage of a product, from conception to final creation, we can ensure we produce the highest quality products. We are also proud to sell directly from our Essex showroom, which allows us to cater for specific needs and requests so that each Albion product has a personal touch, something that is often lost in today’s internet age.

We also offer a collection of high-quality wooden vanity units to compliment our baths, again all handmade to order from our Essex workshop.  These are available in a range of sizes from 450mm – 1500mm, making them suitable for any space, from small cloakrooms right through to super-sized bathrooms. Storage is a crucial part of any bathroom, but it often gets overlooked. With five designs to choose from including double and single basin options, customers will be able to find a solution to perfectly suit their space. Each unit is painted by our own skilled craftsmen using a specialist polyurethane paint that’s ideal for a bathroom.

We are also very proud that our elegant frameless shower enclosures are manufactured from our Essex factory. At Albion, we make our shower enclosures from 10mm thick toughened glass with the added process of post annealing. This provides superior rigidity and durability. All edges, whether exposed or not, are bevelled and polished – providing a luxury finish with superior optical appearance. It’s also worth noting that our fittings are made from 316 marine grade stainless steel. So even with harsh cleaning chemicals and aggressive limescale remover, we can be confident our products are corrosion-free and will look pristine for years to come. We offer a vast range of sizes and formats to suit almost every bathroom configuration. From side or corner entry and ‘walk in’ enclosures, through to tray or non-tray mounting of the glass, there is shower format to suit everyone. 

In addition to the Farrow & Ball and Dulux Trade colours, we also offer our exclusive ‘burnished’ finishes in gold, iron or bronze for our baths.  These luxurious metallic finishes make a great statement in a bathroom and are hugely fashionable at the moment, giving a real sense of getting back to base materials. Our luxurious burnished finishes are a popular option for anyone looking for a solid, industrial warehouse look and make a stylish focal point.  Alternatively, they also look surprisingly at home in more traditional schemes, and I have seen them work really well in country houses, where the bronze or gold finishes have been paired with bold floral or simple striped wallpapers to give an opulent feel.

Small and large free standing baths are now the ‘go to’ for the luxury bathroom. Whether your bathroom is space challenged or generous in its dimensions, a free standing or roll top bath will give your sanctuary that touch of understated elegance.  Freestanding baths are available in many styles, single or double ended, with many possible feet or plinth options to choose from. There are also a great range of versatile, over-bath shower systems available meaning one can achieve a luxurious spa-like feel which is still practical for family life too. We’ve got all of the bases covered with bath tubs available in sizes from 1200mm through to 2000mm long. 

At Albion, we’re always looking to push the boundaries of bathing enjoyment. We wanted to get the fun factor of a free-standing tub into a small bathroom – so the Tubby roll top bath was born. With its generous depth, you can get fully submerged but at only 1200mm long, it can grace a small space that may otherwise be redundant. Amazingly, the Tubby has created a trend for putting a small bath into bedrooms. I guess it’s testament to the appeal and versatility of this lovely bath tub. 

Our Floorify F029 Coquille Big Vinyl Tiles provide the perfect kitchen flooring solution if you’re after the look of concrete floors at a fraction of the price. This design creates the ideal match with pink tones for an elegant finish in this contemporary kitchen

There’s an important decision looming for all you romantics out there: How are you planning to celebrate Valentine’s Day this year? If you’re thinking of preparing a delicious dinner à deux at home, accompanied by a glass or two of something special to drink, it’s time to lavish some love on your kitchen floor first! Family-run, independent online tiles and flooring specialist Hyperion Tiles has plenty of inspiration for kitchen flooring ideas you’ll love for Valentine’s Day and beyond – with highly competitive trade pricing a key feature.

Our director Richard comments: “As open-plan kitchen/dining/living rooms become more common, we’re all spending a lot more time in this space. That’s great news in terms of functionality and flow – and makes Valentine’s Day entertaining much easier. But it does mean increased traffic levels for your floor. And because all areas are on display all of the time, any signs of wear and tear tend to be far more obvious.”

Here’s are Richard’s top three popular kitchen flooring ideas:

1.    Show some passion for pattern. The trend for patterned floors shows no sign of slowing down in 2024. They add instant impact and interest to any space. Why not go big, bold and bright to create a modern statement floor? Or choose a neutral palette with an interesting motif.

2.    Cement and cement-effect tiles (also known as concrete tiles) are firm favourites among fans of the urban/industrial chic aesthetic. But they can feel cold and hard underfoot. That’s why we offer a wide selection of cement-effect tiles. They deliver the same visual impact, but feel more comfortable – and are a much more cost-effective option.

3.    Terracotta tiles have always been a popular choice for kitchens, because they bring both virtual and physical warmth to a space Their distinctive red/brown appearance looks fabulous in traditional settings. But the right shape and shade can really elevate a modern kitchen too.

Our highly skilled team are available to offer expert advice, technical know-how and in-depth product knowledge on tiles, solid and engineered wood flooring, and LVT. We work closely with designers, specifiers, architects and homeowners. 

You can peruse and buy comprehensive collections of more than 15,000 types of tiles, flooring and bathroom accessories for residential and commercial projects online or simply visit us at our Ascot showroom. .For more information on different kitchen flooring ideas, why not read our latest blog here?

Would you like to feature large lifestyle or cut-out images or receive more information on any of our products? Our director, Richard Skeoch, is also available for exclusive interviews on tiles trends, new products and more.

www.hyperiontiles.co.uk

If you’re thinking ‘new year, new dining room’, this may be the time to give your space an update.

Here are 3 trending ideas to refresh your space for the new year with the help of our resident Interior Style Advisor Rebecca Snowden at Furniture And Choice.

1. Zone your dining space with fashionable wall panels 

2. Feel the blues with a bold colour palette

3. Streamline, streamline, streamline

www.furniturechoice.co.uk