Vaughn Lowery is a native of Detroit and the youngest of five siblings, a graduate of Cornell University's ILR School. Core duties: global diversification strategy, production management, and ecological implementation. The grandson of the late civil rights defender and recipient of the presidential medal of freedom, Joseph Lowery. Lastly, a distinguished member of the Alpha Phi Alphi Fraternity, Incorporated (Alpha Chapter).
Stetson, the legendary American brand, is thrilled to announce a new collaboration with global superstar Bruno Mars and his lifestyle brand, Ricky Regal. The Stetson x Ricky Regal collab reimagines the Ranger, a classic Stetson silhouette dating back more than a century, as the Regal, merging Stetson’s unparalleled heritage with Mars’ signature modern attitude. Available in three colors in limited quantities, the Regal will be available September 26, 2024, exclusively at Stetson.com.
“Bruno Mars is famous for the effortless way he remixes timeless influences, and that’s exactly what he’s done with this collaboration, bringing a modern attitude to Stetson’s rich history and legendary craftsmanship,” said Stetson CEO Robert Dundon. “Bruno is also a longtime Stetson fan, and he really embraced this project, working closely with our team and delving deep into our archive for inspiration. The style he created, The Regal, is a true modern classic.”
In developing the Regal, Bruno Mars spent hours combing through Stetson’s archives to draw inspiration and ensure every detail reflects his personal style while honoring Stetson’s commitment to quality and timeless style. The results are a modern reinterpretation of The Ranger, one of Stetson’s most storied silhouettes, with its signature higher crown and medium-length brim. Available in three classic colors—Black, Silverbelly, and Chocolate—the hat embodies Ricky Regal’s distinctive flair with a signature gold-toned horseshoe pin set with rhinestones, exclusive co-branded leather sweatband, and a Stetson X Ricky Regal rose motif liner.
“I’ve always been a fan of Stetson. I’m honored that I got to design a hat and a shape that I personally love,” says Bruno Mars. “I’ve been waiting to wear this hat for a long time, and now it’s here.”
Stetson’s roots in the music industry run deep, and include a recent successful collaboration with Post Malone. This year alone, Stetsons have also been worn by Beyoncé, Post Malone, Jared Leto, Shania Twain, Lyle Lovett, and more modern legends. The Stetson x Ricky Regal collaboration is just the latest evidence of the enduring strength and relevance of the Stetson brand across genres and generations.
“Wicked” fans, get ready to “Experience OZmazing.” Universal Pictures’ spectacular new cinematic event, “Wicked,” based on the beloved Broadway musical phenomenon about the untold story of the witches of Oz, soars into theaters this holiday season, and Lexus is along for the ride. Today, Lexus partners with Universal’s “Wicked,” debuting a 360-degree marketing campaign with a co-branded, 30-second custom spot featuring the 2024 Lexus TX.
The custom TV spot – featuring award-winning powerhouse Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba and global superstar Ariana Grande as Glinda – stars the Lexus TX alongside thrilling scenes from the film. The action is set to the movie’s iconic song, “Defying Gravity,” as it’s played on the vehicle’s Lexus Interface. The spot closes with the “Wicked”-inspired Lexus tagline, “Experience OZmazing.”
“As a proud partner of Universal’s ‘Wicked,’ Lexus is helping drive audiences to experience the film’s powerful and transformative magic this holiday season,” said Cynthia Tenhouse, vice president, Lexus marketing. “Offering three-row luxury, innovative technology, and plenty of cargo space for extra broomsticks, the Lexus TX is the perfect vehicle for travelers, wherever the road may take them.”
The custom spot headlines a 360-degree marketing campaign – set to appear in a wide range of media – including dealer point-of-sale marketing, co-branded social content and sponsorship of the film premiere. The 30-second spot will air on Hulu, YouTube and Linear throughout the promotional window, running Oct. 21 through Dec. 6, 2024.
“Wicked,” directed by acclaimed filmmaker Jon M. Chu, and co-starring Oscar winner Michelle Yeoh, Jonathan Bailey, Marissa Bode, Ethan Slater and pop culture icon Jeff Goldblum, arrives in theaters on Fri., Nov. 22, 2024.
The Loire Valley, known as the “Garden of France,” has a rich and varied gastronomy, with garden-to-plate experiences and unique culinary specialties aplenty. From goat cheese to Michelin-starred experiences to traditionally made vinegar to Tarte Tatin, below are some of the many quintessential culinary experiences of the Loire Valley.
New Michelin-Starred Experiences
In the Loire Valley, more than 170 “Maîtres Restaurateurs” utilize the local produce and ingredients of the region to create their own unique mark on the local gastronomy, while honoring traditional French art de vivre. Les Jardiniers, located in the heart of the Loire Valley’s Rabelais region along an old railway line, received its first Green Michelin Star in 2024. Chef Martin Bolaers brings a true “garden-to-plate” experience, using produce from their extensive vegetable garden and truffle farm to create creative, seasonal dishes. The Auberge du 12ème Siècle, a 12th-century inn and restaurant located in the charming village of Saché, was awarded a Michelin star in March 2024. Led by chef Kevin Gardien, the restaurant features locally sourced ingredients and innovative cuisine served in a beautifully preserved, medieval dining room.
A Martin-Pouret Vinegar Experience Opens to the Public
Culinary specialties of the Loire Valley include the famous upside-down apple tart, Tarte Tatin; slow-cooked meat from the 19th century, Tours rillettes; toasted almonds dating back to the 17th century, Pralines de Montargis; and Orléans vinegar. Orléans vinegar dates back to the Middle Ages, when the city became a hub for vinegar production due to its strategic position as a major wine trading center. As wines were transported to Paris, some would spoil during the journey and, instead of discarding these wines, local merchants in Orléans began converting them into vinegar. Today, Martin-Pouret, a master vinegar-maker since 1797, still makes the famous Orléans vinegar in its traditional method, which allows wine to ferment slowly in wooden barrels. As of October 2024, travelers can now visit Martin-Pouret’s new vinegar factory located right outside of Orléans in Boigny-sur-Bionne, which has just opened to the public for the first time. Visitors can attend workshops to see how the vinegar is made, as well as participate in cooking and mixology classes using the vinegar.
Wine Tasting in a Historic Cave
Some of the most unique wine tasting experiences in the Loire Valley take place in historic troglodyte caves. “Troglo Degusto” at Domaine des Tabourelles includes an underground tour of 22 miles of historic troglodyte galleries, located below the village of Bourré. After the underground tour, guests can try the domain’s own wines, along with food pairings. At Caves Monmousseau, visitors can try sparkling wines that have been perfected for over 130 years, while experiencing a very unique art show in the underground cellars: images are illuminated on the tunnel walls, telling the story of the châteaux of the Loire through a spectacular sound and light show.
Experiencing the Loire Valley’s Goat Cheese
The Loire Valley is celebrated for its diverse and high-quality goat cheeses, with notable varieties include Sainte-Maure-de-Touraine, recognized by its rye straw center; Selles-sur-Cher, with its ash-coated rind and hazelnut flavor; Chavignol, also known as Crottin; Valençay, a pyramid-shaped cheese; and Pouligny Saint-Pierre. Additionally, the region has introduced Trèfle du Perche, a four-leaf clover-shaped cheese gaining popularity in the region. Open since 2019, Les Passerelles, located in Sainte-Maure-de-Touraine, is a museum dedicated to showcasing the region’s heritage and goat cheese. The museum includes an immersive experience in the world of cheese-making, showcasing the history, techniques, and traditions behind the production of some of the most famous cheeses in the area.
Ghost is one of the most important Rolls-Royce motor cars of the Goodwood era. The first generation was introduced in 2009 to meet the needs of what was then a completely new category of luxury consumer. These clients, who were predominantly younger than those the marque had spoken to with its initial motor car, Phantom, requested a more approachable and versatile model. They also sought a more distilled expression of the Rolls-Royce brand — and crucially, one that would allow them to make their own statements through Bespoke that they would relish driving themselves.
Exterior Design: The front end has been redesigned with a new illuminated Pantheon grille and updated headlight graphics. The rear features a new tail lamp configuration inspired by the Spectre.
Interior Enhancements: A new pillar-to-pillar glass panel houses the Central Information Display with the advanced SPIRIT operating system. The interior also features a new Spirit of Ecstasy Clock Cabinet and Illuminated Fascia.
Technology Upgrades: The SPIRIT system integrates with the Whispers private members app, allowing for remote vehicle management. Entertainment functions have been improved with enhanced streaming capabilities and connectivity.
BESPOKE Audio System: An upgraded 1400-watt amplifier powers the 18-speaker audio system, with innovative ‘speakerless’ exciters in the Headliner.
New Materials: Introduction of Grey-Stained Ash wood and Duality Twill, a bamboo-based textile. The Placed Perforation technique offers unique leather artworks.
Engineering: The 6.75-liter V12 engine is retained, with improvements to the Planar Suspension System for a more refined ride.
Ghost Extended Series II: The Ghost Extended Series II offers 6.69 inches more rear space and optional reclining Serenity Seating.
New ‘Duality Twill’ embroidered bamboo fabric (2.2m stitches, 11 miles of thread)
New choregraphed interior illumination sequence
Black Badge Ghost Series II Highlights
Rolls-Royce’s disruptive alter ego, Black Badge, finds its most powerful, agile, and technical expression in Ghost. Today, the company presents a daring evolution of this unapologetic and uniquely driver-focused car with Black Badge Ghost Series II, meticulously redesigned to provide this rebellious group of clients with a dramatic canvas for their bold Bespoke commissions.
The Black Badge Ghost Series II builds upon the standard model with performance and aesthetic enhancements:
Exterior Design: Features unique lower grille treatment with darkened chrome elements. All exterior Rolls-Royce hallmarks receive a black chrome finish.
Black Badge-specific bumper, Black Badge-specific lower bumper & specific air intakes
Darkened taillights, Black Chrome grille, Black door handles and window surround
Rolls-Royce announces the one-of-one Spectre Lunaflair
Inspired by a lunar halo, where light refracts through ice particles in cirrus clouds
Effect creates a brilliant, ethereal technicolor ring around the moon
Bespoke holographic paint captures this phenomenon for one-off motor car
Creating Lunaflair paint required one year of development
Bespoke paint reserved exclusively for the commissioning client
“We are constantly astounded by the diversity of ideas that inform our clients’ Bespoke concepts, which frequently draw inspiration from materials, finishes and themes they see in other commissions. Spectre Lunaflair is the perfect example of this, exploring the ethereal beauty of a lunar halo and sparked by the client after witnessing a paint finish on another Bespoke motor car. This symbiotic relationship and cross-pollination of ideas is fostering a ‘virtuous circle’ of innovation and creativity, which is incredibly important to our team of Bespoke designers, as we focus on delivering unparalleled value to those who entrust us with their vision.”
Rolls-Royce has unveiled the breathtaking Spectre Lunaflair – a Bespoke commission undertaken on behalf of a significant client from the United States. The extraordinary and exquisite highlight of this landmark motor car is the remarkable holographic paint finish that creates a captivating ‘rainbow’ effect.
The commission takes its inspiration and name from the optical phenomenon of a lunar halo, which appears as a colorful circle of light around the moon. It is caused by moonlight passing through ice crystals in high-altitude cirrus clouds, which act as microscopic prisms: the light refracts, creating a spellbinding technicolour ring effect, similar to light passing through a diamond.
Capturing this phenomenon in a bespoke paint finish required more than one year of experimentation. The paint chemistry, application timings, and base coat were extensively trialed in order to meet the client’s concept. The final finish is achieved by applying seven layers of lacquer, including a specially formulated pearlescent coat infused with fine flakes of magnesium fluoride and aluminum. This creates a deep metallic effect under low light that bursts into rainbow technicolor in bright sunshine.
The Spectre Lunaflair concept was partially inspired by another Bespoke masterpiece, the one-of-one Phantom Syntopia. Revealed in 2023, it features a dark iridescent Liquid Noir finish, infused with color-shifting, mirror-like pigment. Captivated by Phantom Syntopia’s appearance, the commissioning patron asked the Bespoke Collective to create a light and luminous expression of this concept that reflected their fascination with the lunar halo phenomenon.
This cross-pollination of ideas, where a previous commission directly informs and inspires a completely new concept and story, speaks to the power of Bespoke. For the marque’s Bespoke Collective of designers, engineers and craftspeople, this virtuous creative circle and interconnection of ideas constantly provides new opportunities for the advancement of their art.
Spectre Lunaflair’s dramatic coachwork is complemented by a fully Bespoke interior. It includes Navy Blue, White, and Peony Pink tones, recalling the spectrum of hues that can be witnessed during a lunar halo. The color scheme appears on the seats, doors and the Starlight Headliner. This theme is also carried onto the dual-tone steering wheel, with a Navy outer and an Arctic White inner side.
There will be only one Spectre Lunaflair ever produced. The unique Lunaflair paint finish is reserved exclusively for the commissioning patron.
PRESENT: “AN EMPEROR’S JEWEL – THE MAKING OF THE BVLGARI HOTEL ROMA” A DOCUMENTARY UNVEILING THE CREATION OF THE NEW GEM OF THE BVLGARI HOTELS & RESORTS COLLECTION
Bvlgari Hotels & Resorts and Atomic production are thrilled to announce the release of an unprecedented docufilm, “An Emperor’s Jewel – The making of the Bvlgari Hotel Roma” produced by Atomic Production and directed by Andrea Rovetta.
This visually captivating documentary takes audiences on an exclusive behind-the-scenes journey into the creation of the new Bvlgari Hotel Roma, chronicling an imaginary timeline from the Augustus Empire to the grand opening event on 8th June 2023.
Delving into the meticulous planning, architectural brilliance, and artistic vision behind the project, the film draws parallels between hotel construction and Bvlgari’s jewellery craftsmanship, emphasizing Roman heritage, Italian creativity and timeless design.
Featuring rare insights, behind-the-scenes footage of artisans, interviews with visionaries, among which Roberto Gualtieri – Mayor of Rome, the hotel’s architects Antonio Citterio and Patricia Viel, Jean-Christophe Babin – CEO of Bvlgari, Silvio Ursini – Vice President of Bvlgari and Founder of the Hotels division, Niko Romito – hotel’s chef curator, and actress Priyanka Chopra Jonas, first exceptional guest of the hotel and Godmother of the inauguration, the documentary provides a comprehensive look at how Bvlgari consistently creates extraordinary hospitality experiences worldwide, with meticulous attention to detail and the finest materials.
The production of the movie began 2 years before the hotel opening when all the artisans were at work on the special crafts commissioned by the architects to make the hotel an extraordinary example of Italian craftsmanship and art.
Starting from the restauration of the imposing building, a splendid example of rationalist architecture designed by the architect Vittorio Ballio Morpurgo and built between 1936 and 1938 to host the headquarters of the Italian Social Security Agency, the documentary showcases the different phases of the delicate renovation operated by Carron Construction Company who involved more than 300 employees working 7 days a week for more than 3 years.
It took more than 50 days of filming to capture the backstage work of the craftsmen who bring centuries of expertise and tradition to the creation of the Bvlgari Hotel Roma: the interviewed artisans give a rare testimony of the immense love and passion which lays behind their artisanal job and genuinely express their joy of ‘working with heart and hands’ to create unique pieces with a ‘soul’.
From the made to measure textiles created by the renowned weaving atelier Rubelli, the Murano chandeliers by Barovier&Toso, a glassmaking company with a history dating back to 1295, to the bespoke mosaic artworks crafted by the Mosaic School of Friuli and Friuli Mosaic Workshop, together with the hand painted chinaware by Ginori 1735 and the handmade Terracotta tiles by Furnace Sugaroni founded in 1685, all the masterpieces adorning the hotel are filmed in their in the making process to showcase the Italian ancient artisanal legacy.
The outdoor areas of the hotel were transformed into serene and enchanting environments, blending nature with architecture by the refined expertise of P’arcnouveau landscape designers, and this ‘Nature’ theme is also reproduced on the hand-painted wallpaper designed by the refined decorators of the Pictalab workshop.
Each artisan featured in the film embodies the pinnacle of Italian craftsmanship, turning this hotel into a living testament of Italy’s rich heritage and dedication to excellence on a global stage.
To honour the opening of the hotel in its hometown, Bvlgari produced an exceptional piece of High Jewelry: a necklace featuring an original Roman coin with the Emperor’s Augustus. Set in yellow gold, the creation is adorned with 149 emerald beads weighing 615.04 carats, complemented by 80 buff-top emeralds (16,53 ct.) and pavé-set diamonds (40,69 ct.). The ‘intelligent hands’ of the Bvlgari goldsmith working at such an extraordinary piece are among the most mesmerizing footages of the documentary, together with the images of the finalized necklace worn by Priyanka Chopra Jonas in the final scenes of the inauguration party.
In the movie, a special focus is given to the Statue of seated Augustus, an original Roman sculpture from the Torlonia Collection, in Pentelic marble, portrayed as Jupiter with the traditional attributes, a globe held in the right hand and the scepter originally held in the left, placed in the entrance vestibule of the hotel.
The film shows the charming and careful restoration process, accomplished in the Fondazione Torlonia Workshop with the contribution of Bvlgari as part of a long-term collaboration between the Maison and the Fondazione Torlonia for the conservation of the most important private collection of ancient art in the world.
Beside the craftsmen, the people working at the hotel are also showcased in the film as the ‘artisans of hospitality’: from the recruiting day to the moment of the opening the hotel staff is trained to deliver and impeccable and authentic service crafted on the guests expectations.
The final part of the movie present the extraordinary participation of the award winner actress Priyanka Chopra Jonas, ambassador of the Bvlgari Brand, who is filmed while experiencing the hotel as a first guest: in an imaginary conversation with the ‘spirit’ of Emperor’s Augustus, the actress highlights the connection between the property, the history of Roma and the Italian legacy of excellence for craftmanship, design and art of living. Her enthusiasm for her overall experience in the hotel and her love for the city of Rome are tangible and represent a special reward for such an extraordinary work.
The movie ends with the emotional images of the Hotel’s Opening Party held on 8th June 2023 at the presence of the Mayor of Rome and a parterre of 600 guests and celebrities, among which Zendaya and Alessandro Gassmann, who enjoyed the night dancing on the hotel scenic terraces and admiring a unique drone show celebrating the hotel and the city of Rome.
Andrea Rovetta, film Director comments: “In ‘An Emperor’s Jewel – The making of the Bvlgari Hotel Roma’ we aimed to capture not just the construction process of the Bvlgari Hotel Roma, but the soul of Italian craftsmanship infused into every detail. It was an honour and a big emotion for me to portray the passion, dedication and creativity of these extraordinary artisans and the profound beauty that emerges when timeless tradition meets modern luxury.”
Gianluigi Attorre and Caterina Mollica, founders of ATOMIC Production House, comment as follow: “Once we acknowledged that a new Bulgari Hotel was about to open in Roma, we realized that showcasing the ‘making of’ of such a majestic project was an unmissable opportunity to bring on screen an incredible example of the Italian excellence in craftsmanship, design and hospitality. We thank Bulgari for giving us an exclusive behind-the-scenes access to produce a movie that stands out in the documentary genre for a special and remarkable production effort. We are very proud to have finally completed this film which is the result of a two-year journey of pure beauty“.
Notably, “An Emperor’s Jewel – The making of the Bvlgari Hotel Roma ” is not just a documentary; it is a powerful film transcending the narrative of one hotel to showcase the artistry and dedication woven into the entire Bvlgari Hotels & Resorts Collection.
Bvlgari Group CEO, Jean-Christophe Babin, expressed his pride at the docufilm preview: “We are excited to share the captivating story behind the creation of the Bvlgari Hotel Roma through ‘An Emperor’s Jewel -The making of the Bvlgari Hotel Roma’ . This docufilm offers a unique perspective on the dedication, innovation, and creativity that went into making this iconic luxury hotel a reality. The project is a celebration of Italy’s rich cultural heritage, leaving a lasting imprint on the hearts of all involved. This movie provides the audiences with a unique insight into the Bvlgari brand’s commitment to unparalleled luxury and sophistication. Following ‘Inside The Dream’, the first movie about Bvlgari featuring the making of an extraordinary Serpenti high jewellery necklace, I’m very proud to see now a second film showcasing the creation of another ‘jewel’: the Bvlgari Hotel Roma.
The movie has the patronage of the Italian Ministry of Made in Italy, the Roma Municipality and the Altagamma Foundation.
“An Emperor’s Jewel – The making of the Bvlgari Hotel Roma ” will be available on Amazon Prime.
About Bvlgari Hotels & Resorts
Unique locations in harmony with the surrounding areas, the blend of traditional design with dramatic contemporary Italian architecture by the Italian architecture and interior design practice ACPV ARCHITECTS Antonio Citterio Patricia Viel and superior service crafted with the same attention to quality that has always distinguished Bvlgari creations. These are the key elements that characterize The Bvlgari Hotels & Resorts collection.
For all the hotels, the approach is the same: the design of the interiors is strongly rooted in the traditions of the place, and careful attention is paid to every detail in a tribute to absolute luxury.
The Bvlgari Hotels & Resorts collection features the distinctive, bold Italian style typical of Bvlgari, reflected in its unique design, its contemporary Italian cuisine and its lavish spas. It conveys the excitement of the Bvlgari brand, its timeless glamour and its magnificent Italian jewellery heritage.
Bvlgari Hotels & Resorts Collection began as an initial array of three establishments in Milan, London and Bali, and recently added new ones in Beijing, Dubai, Shanghai, Paris and Tokyo.
The Bvlgari Hotel Roma opened on 9th June 2023 is the ninth jewel in the collection and other two hotels are coming soon in Miami and Maldives between 2026 and 2027.
About Bvlgari
Part of the LVMH Group, Bvlgari was founded in Rome in 1884 as a jewellery shop. Known as the magnificent Roman jeweller and master of coloured gems, Bvlgari has established a worldwide reputation for Italian excellence and enjoys renowned for its exquisite craftsmanship. The company’s international success has evolved into a global and diversified luxury purveyor of products and services, ranging from fine jewels and high end watches to accessories and perfumes, and featuring an unrivalled network of boutiques and hotels in the world’s most exclusive shopping areas.
Demonstrated through its numerous philanthropic partnerships, Bvlgari deeply believes in innovating the present for a sustainable future through its commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility and giving back – to nature and to the community.
Cultural curators, artisans, and community leaders in LA join the LEGO Group and Pharrell Williams in celebrating their collaboration
Last night, The LEGO Group and visionary artist and designer Pharrell Williams came together in Los Angeles at an immersive experience that brings to life their recently released, co-designed LEGO® set Over the Moon.
The interactive experience, which opens to the general public for one day tomorrow Saturday 5th of October, aims to celebrate diverse perspectives and the creative power of play by taking guests on a cosmic journey of creativity and curiosity to help unleash their limitless creative potential.
Ahead of the release of ‘PIECE by PIECE, an upcoming new biopic of Williams’ life, told through LEGO animation, Pharrell took part in an intimate conversation with close friend and Academy Award® winning filmmaker Morgan Neville, who directed the film.
Regarding the upcoming PIECE by PIECE film, Williams said:
“Seeing the film through the lens of LEGO animation, we were able to tell a universal story. The reaction we are getting to the film is that a lot of people are walking away feeling inspired, and that they can do and be anything they want to be. I love that.”
Expanding on his partnership with the LEGO Group, Williams said:
“Imagine you are five years old, playing with a LEGO set and now fast forward and you are in this position that I am in here today, talking about my own film, told through LEGO animation. If this can happen for me, I want all the kids out there to just imagine what they can do too.”
Guests attending the immersive Over The Moon experience in Los Angeles enjoyed hands-on experiences including a LEGO® minifigure make and take zone, a space to create their own rocket and a station to create their own personalised t-shirt to take away as a souvenir.
The event takes inspiration from the Over The Moon LEGO® set which is a space shuttle with a golden canopy and a vibrant jet stream of colours and is made up of three parts, with each holding a special meaning for Pharrell. The black-and-gold shuttle symbolizes limitless potential, taking off and transporting you anywhere you can imagine. The bright and vibrant colours of the jet stream symbolize the imagination, creativity, and power of play to fuel your way. And finally, befitting Pharrell’s relentless pursuit to push boundaries and ensure that everyone can feel represented and seen, the LEGO® Over the Moon set features the widest range of customizable minifigure skin tones. 50 Minifigure heads are included, 30 of which were especially created for this set.
The LEGO Group VP of Global Brand Development Alero Akuya said:“We’re thrilled to be bringing our partnership with Pharrell Williams to Los Angeles at this immersive experience that brings the project to life through Pharrell’s unique lens and celebrates the diverse voices and creativity that shape our world.”
The Over the Moon experience in Los Angeles comes ahead of the release of Focus Features’ PIECE BY PIECE, which will debut in US theatres on 11 October, and internationally beginning 6 November. Directed by Academy Award® winning filmmaker Morgan Neville and featuring new original music from Pharrell, PIECE BY PIECE is a unique cinematic experience that invites audiences on a vibrant journey through the life of cultural icon Pharrell Williams. Developed from Pharrell’s singular vision, PIECE BY PIECE defies genres and expectations to transport audiences into a LEGO® world where anything is possible.
Taking inspiration from opulent crowns, the Regal Ring encapsulates the essence of royalty and elegance. Its intricate design features marquise diamonds, meticulously set in a cascading pattern on a luxurious 18K rose gold band. The warm hue of the rose gold beautifully complements the brilliance of the diamonds, while white enamel accents add an extra layer of refinement. It has a weight of 2.63 carats of marquise diamonds and is made of 18K rose gold, with white enamel accents.
Wearing the Regal Ring feels like a nod to regal history while embracing a modern edge. It’s versatile enough to be styled for grand events like weddings or galas and can make a chic statement in everyday attire. Order online HERE.
Combining opposites to arrive at a project that celebrates heritage and plays with irony
In a 1960s building nestled between San Giovanni and Pigneto in Rome, 02A Studiounveils its latest project: the new home of Martina Pinto and Alessandro Poggi. Once the property of designer Valerio Ciampicacigli, who crafted the original interiors, the apartment now merges the raw aesthetics of brutalism with the playful vibrancy of pop art, creating a dynamic dialogue of contrasts. “This project embodies a perfect fusion of two worlds,” says Marco Rulli, co-founder of the studio alongside Thomas Grossi. “I love homes with a story to tell, and this one—with its layered patterns and eccentric furnishings—brings together different identities in a way that feels both unexpected and harmonious.”
Interior Design 02A Studio preserved the open-plan living space while reimagining the bedrooms to meet the family’s new functional needs. Within the 120 sqm apartment, a master suite with an ensuite bathroom and walk-in closet was created, along with a bedroom for their daughter Polly and a separate laundry area.
The goal was to infuse the space with distinctive elements that would reflect the personality and aesthetic of the clients while honoring the spirit of the previous owner’s design.
Together with the clients, we sought a balance between Ciampicacigli’s raw, minimal style and their love for geometric patterns, pastel tones, and a certain softness. The result is a striking interplay between rugged, raw surfaces and softer, glossy materials. The built-in kitchen, adorned with milky D-tiles, stretches towards the large windows, while an exposed raw concrete pillar commands attention as the focal point of the living area. This space is divided into a raised dining area with a wooden platform and a lounge where the original 1960s terrazzo flooring peeks through the cemento di Luna resin coating.
The juxtaposition of such varied materials and textures defines the spaces, adding character and depth to the environment. Another signature element of the design is the use of wall decor, such as the lilac horizontal stripes in the hallway, which cleverly conceal a laundry closet.
While the living area leans towards a brutalist feel, the master bedroom is defined by soft atmospheres. Floored with light blue carpet and decorated with Murals wallpaper, the room embraces a cartoon aesthetic, where edges are banned, each corner features sinuous lines and generous padding and also carefully selected furnishings and curtains, creating a feeling of warmth and comfort.
The ensuite bathroom exemplifies how contrasts can create harmony. The entrance, framed by a pastel green wavy portal, leads to the sink area, featuring a pink fluted wood vanity. A sleek iron and glass partition adds privacy to the functional zones without sacrificing aesthetic appeal.
Marco Rulli continues: “Bringing together brutalist elements with the chubby pop sensibilities of the clients was the biggest challenge to us. Striking the right balance between the rugged character of the existing interior and the new decorative elements was key. The result is a unique apartment that not only reflects the personalities of its owners but also remains fully functional for family life.”
02A studio
Founded in 2014 by architects Thomas Grossi and Marco Rulli, 02A is an Italian architectural and interior design studio based in Rome. Driven by the vision of a broader approach to architectural design, the studio sees the concept of a “project” as a synthesis of multiple disciplines, especially when it comes to residential spaces. Each project begins with an in-depth understanding of the client’s practical needs and inner aspirations. This method is rooted in a passionate pursuit of compositional, functional, and technological solutions to create spaces that contribute to the happiness of those who inhabit them. 02A Studio has completed numerous residential interiors in Rome and shares its projects through captivating visuals and descriptions that narrate not just the final outcome but the journey taken to achieve it.
Every business enterprise pushes toward the singular goal of maximizing profits. However, there are numerous subtle ways through which profits can inadvertently slip through the cracks, a phenomenon known as revenue leakage. With various contributing factors and often unnoticed in real-time, this issue can quietly erode a company’s financial health. Understanding the intricacies of these losses is crucial in forming an effective strategy to prevent them. Keep reading to discover how your business can identify and address the causes of revenue loss efficiently.
Understanding Revenue Leakage and Its Impact on Business Profitability
Alt text: Two colleagues sitting at a desk, analyzing a computer screen, engaged in a discussion about revenue leakage.
Revenue leakage happens when a business loses income that should have been earned due to errors, inefficiencies, or poor systems. This can range from small accounting mistakes to larger issues like contract breaches, which can accumulate and severely impact profits. For businesses with tight margins, even minor leakage can disrupt financial planning and long-term investments.
To tackle what is revenue leakage, companies must assess their revenue streams and find gaps between expected and actual earnings. Fixing the problem isn’t just about addressing current issues but involves reviewing processes to prevent future losses. Staying adaptable and vigilant is key to minimizing leakage over time.
Identifying the Common Causes of Revenue Leakage
Revenue leakage is a significant issue that can be addressed by identifying its origins and methods. Common culprits include billing errors, contract mismanagement, poor data management, inadequate control over discount and rebate programs, and procedural inefficiencies in supply chain and inventory management. These factors can lead to under-billing, missed billing opportunities, and lost opportunities for earnings.
Companies must also monitor these programs to prevent over-encouraging incentives and to mitigate risks. By understanding these causes, businesses can focus on areas where losses are likely to occur and implement improvements to mitigate risks. By identifying these causes, companies can begin to mitigate their risks and improve their overall financial performance.
Strategies to Prevent Revenue Loss in Your Business Operations
To prevent revenue leakage, businesses should adopt comprehensive strategies such as regular audits, strict internal controls on pricing, billing, and contract fulfillment, and optimizing business processes to eliminate errors and inefficiencies. Automated billing systems can reduce human error in transactions, while clear communication of pricing structures and discount policies can prevent confusion and loss.
Investing in employee training, particularly in critical roles like sales and finance, can increase awareness of the cost of errors and the importance of precision. Encouraging a culture of accountability can also help curb practices that lead to leakage. Adopting innovative technologies like analytics and machine learning algorithms can help detect and prevent leakage, identifying unusual patterns in data that may indicate losses.
The Role of Technology in Detecting and Addressing Revenue Leakage
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Technology plays a crucial role in preventing revenue leakage. Advanced software can track transactions throughout the business cycle, identifying potential discrepancies and anomalies. This allows businesses to respond quickly and decisively to revenue loss. Big data analytics provides deeper insights into business operations, enabling companies to predict and prevent future scenarios. Customized reporting and real-time monitoring are also essential.
Cloud-based platforms provide a unified view of business operations, enabling better control and management across departments. Seamless integration with other systems ensures accurate financial forecasting and reporting. Artificial intelligence (AI) plays a significant role in preventing errors and optimizing decision-making processes. AI algorithms can analyze vast amounts of data to detect current revenue leaks and predict future risks, allowing businesses to address issues proactively.
How Companies Successfully Mitigated Revenue Leakage
Leading companies have successfully addressed revenue leakage by addressing the root causes. A telecommunications giant overhauled its billing system to ensure accuracy and transparency, reducing billing errors and boosting profitability. A healthcare provider implemented a contract management solution to ensure compliance with pricing terms and reduced missed revenue from service-level lapses.
A retail chain used data analytics to refine inventory and supply chain processes, reducing product wastage and aligning stock levels with customer demand patterns. A global manufacturer tackled rebates and discount leakage by introducing unified software that tracked and analyzed all customer incentives, allowing strategic management and avoiding undue erosion of profit margins.
Overall, mitigating revenue leakage requires a comprehensive approach encompassing vigilance, process optimization, employee training, and the smart use of technology. As businesses continue to evolve, staying ahead of the potential for revenue leakage through these strategies secures profitability and fosters sustainable growth.
