E5 Living — Vol. II — Old Town Palma [English] by E5 Living

This, is Living.

Contents VOLUME II — OLD TOWN PALMA

E5 Group

Development

President’s note

Palma Market Report

E5 Living: UK & Europe

Penthouse Can Fortuny

E5 Minerals & E5 Care

Villa San Miguel

Villa San Lorenzo

Carpe Diem

Camp de Mar

108

Alpine Gstaad

Interviews

Mallorca

Miquel Ramis

Shopping Guide

Huguet tiles

Let me Entertain You

The Architects

Palma History

Es Verger

Majorcan Culture

Isabel Guarch

Gourmands welcome

John Taylor

Wellbeing in the city

102

Mallorca preservation

Where Art meets Architecture and Design

Content Curator & Editor Joanne Shawcross

Contributor Jan Edwards

Art Direction & Design Miguel Trias

Contributor Dominique Carroll

Property Photography Arturo Sánchez

Contributor Emily Benet

President’s Note I would like to welcome you

to the se-

ding four more cutting-edge coastal villas with

cond edition of the E5 Living Europe magazine,

stunning open sea views over the Cap Andritxol

which focuses on Palma de Mallorca’s stunning

headland that dramatically rises up out of the

Old Town – or Casco Antiguo.

sea.

This captivating city is not only rich in culture

In Switzerland, E5’s impressive, high-end

and heritage, but also has superb infrastructu-

Alpine Gstaad chalets are beautifully designed,

re, European air connections, year-round sun-

superbly equipped, technologically advanced,

ny climate and world-class public and private

and efficient to run. Located in the charming

healthcare. Our articles about Palma’s history,

traditional Alpine village of Lauenen, and only

culture, gastronomy, shopping, and lifestyle re-

minutes away from the amenities of sophistica-

veal why Mallorca’s capital has become a highly

ted Gstaad.

sought-after location for a second home—or even relocation.

“Mallorca is open for business again and there is no better place to buy and enjoy a home.”

We feature the three unique Old Town Palma properties that E5 is respectfully restoring and bringing back to life, with all the comforts and necessities for 21st-century living. ghly skilled and internationally recognised arti-

Villa San Lorenzo

offers a new lifestyle

sans. E5 is committed to making its properties

concept in Palma: its location, luxury, and lift

more sustainable, using local materials, advan-

The island of Mallorca has proved to be a haven,

from the ground floor to the superb roof terrace

ced technology and much-in-demand master

appreciated for its security, healthcare, and real

with summer kitchen and the last licence for a

craftsmen whenever possible.

estate investment benefits.

roof-top pool make it unique. During the pandemic lockdown, many profes-

Welcome to the E5 world. We carefully build

is a penthouse oasis with a

sionals and business leaders – myself included

beautiful homes, not properties.

160m² wrap-around terrace providing 360º

- discovered they and their teams could work

views of the Old Town and the Bay of Palma. This

successfully from home, wherever they are lo-

singular residence, with spacious terraces on

cated, and enjoy an improved quality of life. E5

two levels and with a dip pool, is an example of

homes in Mallorca provide overseas buyers with

city indoor-outdoor living at its finest.

everything they could need for a quality lifestyle

Can Fortuny

Carpe Diem!

combining leisure and business, advanced te-

Villa San Miguel, our latest new develop-

Kevin Stevens

chnology, quality schools and international fli-

E5 President & Founder

ment, will offer silence, privacy, and an extraor-

ght connections.

dinary 100m2 roof terrace—raising the level of luxury living in Palma’s Old Town.

If, however, contemporary-style living is your preference, Phase II of the E5 Carpe Diem deve-

This edition also features some of Mallorca’s hi-

lopment in Camp de Mar will begin soon—ad-

Living

Living Europe

Living UK

Focused on exclusive high-end developments in pri-

Building quality residential

me locations for discerning overseas buyers. These include

the UK from its specific beginnings in the Midlands and

luxury chalets in Gstaad, Switzerland, cutting-edge sea-view

Worcestershire. Working in conjunction with experienced

villas in Camp de Mar and historic town houses in Old Town

and highly respected local constructors. This new division

Palma de Mallorca.

has so far completed five barns in Stoulton; the Royal Oak

developments in

Development at Hallow comprising eight family homes; at This E5 division is currently developing an exciting new pro-

Finstall, a development of five quality bungalows, which is

ject of 13 cutting-edge designer villas on the Spanish Balearic

almost completely sold, and Braithwaite’s Place, a community

Island of Mallorca and specifically in the islands sought after

development of large executive detached houses in a stunning

hot spot of Camp de Mar in the southwest.

location, which is currently under construction.

From the sleek contemporary design of these villas on the

As the progress continues, work has begun on the first phase

coast, to the sensitive and luxurious redevelopment of three

of reconstructing an entire community in Grimsby, Northeast

beautiful historic buildings in Palma’s Old Town, maintaining

Lincolnshire, where the first 77 homes have begun, soon to be

their authenticity and tradition to create supremely comforta-

followed by further phases of retail, over 55’s and care.

ble residences with meticulous detailing. All these homes are ideal for enjoying the laid-back Mediterranean lifestyle, either beside the sea in an extraordinary coastal location, or in the heart of Palma, Mallorca’s elegant and cosmopolitan capital.

C are

Close to the heart

of his own personal experience,

Kevin created this division out of his desire to give something back to the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) and to the extraordinary teams of medical professionals that saved his life and the lives of many others. This division sets out to support the NHS’s critical problem of caring for an ever increasing ageing population and to address the needs of senior citizens without the stigma of an institutional “care home”.

The objective is to create

a community of quality homes that provide a sense of belonging and assisted care, offering an opportunity to retain the individual’s dignity by providing an increased level of independence and a high quality of life. The ultimate goal is to create an environment where residents can enjoy their retirement years in a supportive and caring environment.

The first of these senior assisted living

projects will be based in Grimsby and Dudley in the Midlands, providing two community projects of 77-200 homes with an onsite warden, convenience store, hairdresser, community social centre and other care facilities located beside an NHS hospital.

M i ne ra l s A specialist supplier

of a PSV aggregate stone of

premium quality which has optimum properties when used in road construction and surfacing. The extraordinary geological composition of this stone means that it wears evenly and doesn’t polish. This brings enormous advantages providing a long lasting surface with high safety and performance benefits. Furthermore, this stone is almost unique in Europe which means that is has far reaching export possibilities worldwide. Located in South Wales beside a railway and close to the regional docks, it is renowned as one of the country’s regions of highest unemployment.

Therefore, the future

development of the E5 division could play a major part in generating employment and revive the area for the benefit of both current and future generations.

Pa l m a de

Mallorca

M arke t Palma de Mallorca

Re p o r t

has become one of the

Mediterranean’s most popular cities. The old town, with its narrow alleys, quaint bars, tantalising restaurants and creative businesses, not only tempts visitors, but has also made the city attractive to real estate buyers. In 2019, the transaction volume exceeded again the 1 billion euro mark. The growing attractiveness of the city can also be attributed to another factor; a lot of investment is currently being made, for example in the renovation of the seaside promenade Paseo Marítimo. The demand for properties across all price ranges is high, with buyers increasingly placing value on sustainable architecture. In prime locations such as the old town and Génova, an apartment costs 800,000 euros on average.

Average asking prices — Town houses Data Sources: Engel & Volkers Market Report, Spanish Ministry of Development, Balearic Islands Tourism Agency, AENA S.A., Casafari LLC

Reasons to Invest in Mallorca Source: Engel & Volkers Market Report

Key f a c to rs

1 3

Easy access — Palma’s International Airport is one of the leading airports in Europe and ofers hundreds of routes to

Climate — Mallorca’s climate ofers an average of 300 days of sunshine per year with warm summers and mild winters

over 70 destinations, now with increased fight schedules and

where temperatures rarely fall below 12 degrees - providing

new routes. Direct flights to all major European cities operate

perfect conditions to enjoy outdoor life and sports year-round.

throughout the year enabling investors to travel for short

The island’s natural light has inspired many artists over the

stays or even commute.

years and is a welcome relief for northern European visitors.

Safety —

Security forces have years of experience in

keeping the island safe for visitors including the Spanish

Varied Landscape — Mallorca’s attraction lies in its varied landscape creating completely diferent areas; the

Royal Family and security is easier to control and enforce at

Serra de Tramuntana Mountains dominate the centre of the

the island’s borders. Traditional family ethics and values are

island extending over 92 km from the southwest to the far

very much a part of everyday life particularly in the villages.

northern tip. Mountain scenery gives way to the flat planes ending at the coast that dramatically change from the rugged west to the sandy beaches of the east.

Sporty Mallorca — The island enjoys a reputation as a leading destination for sports with top facilities and sports

Transport Infrastructure — Thanks to Mallorca’s tourist industry, it has a sophisticated, fast network of

centres including the Rafa Nadal Tennis Academy. Mallorca

motorways connecting Palma to the farthest points of the

hosts many events throughout the year and international

island within an hour and a half by car.

teams make it their base for winter training.

Capital City —

A destination in its own right, Palma

ofers a combination of culture, architecture, boutique hotels,

Healthcare — Mallorca ofers a high level of professional healthcare in quality private and social security hospitals and

shopping and gastronomy. The city has developed around

clinics. The main international hospitals have multilingual

its Old Town dominated by Palma’s Cathedral. Many historic

departments. In addition, there are leading European

buildings have been restored and the city is thriving with

specialists working here who have also made the island their

regular new openings and social/cultural activities year-

home.

round.

Education —

There are 15 international schools in

Mallorca ofering pre-school to pre-university education

Cultural and Social Life — There is plenty to do in

Mallorca with a year-round social/cultural calendar of events,

catering to overseas and local residents. Children can be

that appeals to a wide audience, from concerts, wine and

taught in their mother tongue whilst learning Spanish and

gastronomy to sports tournaments, beach parties in summer

other languages. The University of the Balearics ofers a range

and traditional festas throughout the year. The yacht marinas

of degrees together with a reputable catering and hospitality

of Puerto Portals and Port Adriano also organise music,

college.

classic car and sports events.

Penthouse

C a n Fo r t u n y EXQUISITE DUPLEX PENTHOUSE

Prestigious Location

— Situated just behind the

emblematic Plaza Santa Eulalia in an historical building dating back to the 17th century, Can Fortuny is the perfect setting for this exquisite duplex penthouse which has undergone a high quality, complete reformation by E5 Living and is on the market for the first time in more than fifty years.

Bespoke Interiors — One can feel the difference the moment you arrive at the fourth floor private entrance which leads into the “Day Floor” where one is first embraced by the spacious living room with cosy fireplace and direct terrace access, professional home office also with terrace access, formal dining room, fully fitted kitchen with Gaggenau and Siematic appliances together with customized elements from the local, high-end artisans such as Huguet Tiles.

229m2 exterior space & 360º views

— The

kitchen leads out to the exterior covered dining area ideal for al fresco dining and the exterior summer kitchen including grill and B.B.Q. The 229m2 of exterior space in this penthouse is without doubt one of the properties highlights. With a wraparound terrace it offers plenty of options for dining, relaxation, entertaining or simply enjoying the Mediterranean climate from the superior second terrace sunbeds or jacuzzi overlooking the Old Town, Cathedral and towards the sea.

High-End specifications

— On the lower ground

level is the “Night Floor” with three double bedrooms including bathrooms en suite (one with a dressing room) and the Master Suite includes both an en suite bathroom and dressing room which have been furnished with Huguet, Molteni&C, ADL and Dornbracht materials. The property is sold turnkey together with two garage parking spaces. This signature property from “E5 Living” fulfils the demands of even the most discerning clients who are looking for impeccable construction quality, attention to detail and unique interior design.

The jewel of Mallorca — Palma Old Town is one of the best-preserved old towns in Spain featuring the most amazing Gothic architecture in the Mediterranean surrounded by hundreds of narrow streets, excellent shopping, great restaurants, art galleries, museums and amazing ancient passages leading to important historic monuments, landmark buildings, and the jewel of the crown: Cathedral Santa Maria, La Seu. It is very popular and offers very trendy places to visit, like Passeig del Born, Avenida de Jaume III, Passeig de la Rambla, La Llonja and some of the most visited “Plazas”, such as Plaza Santa Eulalia, Plaza Cort, Plaza Mercat and Plaza Mayor, among others.

7 Showrooms in Mallorca www.espaciohdg.com

Visitors to La Lonja

in Palma can’t fail

to build such slender columns to support the

an NGO in 2003 called Artifex. Today, Artifex is

to be impressed by the interior of this former

vaults. You have to really know the limits of your

based in what would once have been a grand

merchants’ exchange. The slender spiral pillars

stone.”

villa, overlooking Palma, where Miquel currently

soar to fuse with the ribs of its lofty vaulted

has three apprentices – not one of them from

ceiling and look barely strong enough to support

Mallorca. Over the years he’s run courses for

the roof’s weight. For master stonemason Miquel Ramis, La Lonja is “the most exciting Gothic building in existence.” Miquel describes Guillerm Sagrera’s building as the 15th-century equivalent of El Corte Inglés or

“We live in a world where young people live in a world of immediacy and want everything now.”

Harrods, where merchants traded exotic goods

students from different countries, including groups from Change Agents UK, the British charity offering environmental education for a sustainable future. “The self-appointed job of transferring my knowledge to the next generation is getting

from distant countries. Mallorca’s strategic

difficult,” Miquel says. “We live in a world where

Mediterranean position made Palma wealthy.

Miquel Ramis is a man who does.

young people live in a world of immediacy

It had a population of 100,000 – compared to

He’s a third-generation member of a family of

and want everything now.” Even having learnt

Barcelona’s 40,000. Today Palma has one of the

stoneworkers, but previously worked in the

stonemasonry, it takes many months’ practice to

largest medieval quarters in Europe, but many

hotel and tourism sector for 15 years. Looking

work at the pace of a maestro to earn a realistic

of its old stone-walled buildings have been

for something more meaningful, he searched

hourly rate.

covered with mortar.

his soul and returned to his family roots – and stone. “To my astonishment, all the people like

He still hopes for future students: “It’s what

“Our master stonemasons were some of the

my father had disappeared. They were retired.

keeps me going. I’m 59 now but would like to

best,” Miquel says and then laughs. “I am

The chain of transmission of knowledge was

find more before I’m 64 or 67. Then I’ll just make

boasting, because I am mallorquín, but I have

broken.” Rural dwellers of his father’s generation

sculptures and things like that.”

proof.” It’s in the form of a column’s thickness to

would have had several craft skills, but these

height ratio. Miquel explains that columns in all

have since died out. “We’ve lost connection with

As well as teaching his apprentices and

Gothic cathedrals in Europe have the ratio 1:10 or

our heritage.”

researching

1:15. The columns in La Seu – Palma’s Cathedral

the

roots

and

history

stonemasonry, Miquel undertakes restoration

– are built in the ratio of 1:17; La Lonja’s are 1:25.

He started a project to recover and teach

work on important buildings and sculptures

“Only the best master stonemasons would dare

the traditional craft of stonemasonry, setting up

in Palma and elsewhere in Mallorca. He has

The Master

Stonemason MIQUEL RAMIS

worked on the façade of Palma Cathedral and Patrimonio Nacional commissioned him to do “one of the most exciting projects ever” on a large 14th-century window in the Royal Palace of Almudaina. He made the statue of Caesar Augustus, in Palma’s La Rambla, to replace the original. A

“I enjoy these projects, because they’re more organic and different to the precise geometrical work.”

council vehicle had accidentally hit it, knocking it to the ground in 200 pieces. (Miquel also repaired the original, which is now kept in an

columns, cornices and plaques etc. It’s an

indoor location). The replacement statue bears

impressive legacy.

his stonemason’s mark in a discreet location – under Augustus’s skirt.

Miquel

undertakes

private

commissions

for contemporary pieces too, such as the logarithmic spiral house – but also sculptures and smaller items. He points out a tactile stone washbasin: “I enjoy these projects, because they’re more organic and different to the precise geometrical work.” For his cobbled paving, he ages each of the stone blocks framing the pebbles. He also restores stonework to its former glory in renovation projects. Miquel Ramis finds “emotional gratification” working with foreign property owners here. He says his British, German, Scandinavian and North Americans clients appreciate traditional Mallorcan designs and crafts: “They see the difference

between

pastiche

and

proper

craftsmanship.” His clients often visit his Artifex workshop and many become friends: “They buy not only my stone, but also my stories, part of our heritage, history, and a feeling.”

A few years ago,

he was invited to Big

Sur, California, to make the calculations and templates for a unique logarithmic spiral house constructed from rare Chinese granite and glass. The following year he made and shipped a Mallorcan-style geminated window (measuring 3 metres by 2.5 metres) for a winery in the Napa Valley and travelled there to install it.

His biggest frustration

is that he

hasn’t been able to convince the authorities that stonemasonry is a skill that should be fostered for the future. However, he has created a comprehensive 2,600-page online stonemasonry reference for his students and compiled a library of 100K photographs he’s taken of authentic architectural details in stone from all over Mallorca. The latter can be used to inspire clients wanting to enhance their properties with features such as arches, windows, vaults, cobbled paving, fountains,

When Gabriel Huguet opened his factory in Campos in 1933, he could never

left to cure. Visitors to Huguet can see this

architecture in Barcelona, Biel witnessed

fascinating process in action in the workshop

a more positive tourism impact: “The large

have imagined that its products would become

next to the showroom.

number of Japanese tourists who came for the

the choice of prestigious international architects

1992 Olympic Games paid a lot of attention

and designers and win numerous awards.

to Gaudí (who used a lot of cement tiles)

Huguet was then one of five factories in the village (and one of around a hundred in Mallorca) making cement-based tiles, sinks, beams, and blocks. With almost no road between Campos and the nearest town of

“This traditional craft almost died out during the tourist boom of the 1960s”

Llucmajor, deliveries were made by cart to

traditional architecture began. In 1996, a more worldly Biel came home to Campos to take over the family business from his sick father. An elderly man from Huguet’s early years taught him what he remembered

local customers. What was made in Campos, stayed in Campos.

and Modernism.” A renewed appreciation for

about making cement tiles, which was Supply couldn’t match the burgeoning demand

supplemented by Biel’s research and contacts

for tiles for new tourist hotels. Better-paid

The 19th-century British mason Joseph

jobs in the hospitality sector depleted the

“We blended traditional and contemporary

Aspdin’s invention of Portland cement had

artisan workforce and Mallorca’s improved

knowledge.”

revolutionized

infrastructure made it easier to import mass-

the

construction

industry.

“One spin-off was the hydraulic tile,” says Biel

produced ceramic tiles from Valencia.

Huguet, the founder’s visionary grandson, who

technical

architecture

Barcelona.

Biel says Huguet survived in the late ‘90s because of the foreigners who came to

has run the company for the past twenty-

With their new tourism-generated wealth,

buy homes on the island. “These people

three years.

many Mallorcans wanted modern materials

appreciated traditional Mallorcan architecture

– such as linoleum, carpets, and aluminium

and wanted something authentic.”

From

traditional

Mallorcan

– for their homes. “Most of the traditional

striking contemporary designs, these tiles are

factories closed or adapted their portfolio,”

In 2019, sustainability is one of Biel’s most

still handcrafted by artisans today. Cement is

Biel says, adding that his father focused on

important considerations and Huguet is

mixed with water and an aggregate, coloured

manufacturing beams and blocks.

working on accreditation. “My grandfather

as required using natural pigments, poured into the appropriate mould, pressed, and then

used sand from Es Trenc beach as an

Studying for his degree in technical

aggregate, but recycled marble dust – waste

Gabriel

Huguet HYDRAULIC TILES MADE IN MALLORCA

from marble slab production – replaced that.

The Swiss-based international architects and

companies recently wanted bespoke tiles for

And, unlike clay, hydraulic tiles don’t go into a

designers Herzog & De Meuron chose Huguet

its head office, they contacted Huguet.

kiln emitting CO2.” These tiles age well and can

tiles for the Forum Building in Barcelona

last more than a century; if ever discarded,

(Museum of Natural Sciences). Sóller’s Can

Biel has recovered, updated, and added

they can be recycled as aggregate.

Prunera Modernist Museum, luxury lifestyle

creativity to traditional cement-based product

store Rialto Living, and the 5-star Glòria de

manufacture. “It’s very important to keep our

Today, Huguet tiles are in locations including

Sant Jaume Hotel in Palma are a few locations

identity – but offer an updated version to the

Hong Kong, New Zealand, and in Washington

in Mallorca enhanced by the beautiful tiles.

world.” His interest in architecture makes him

DC’s Jaleo Restaurant – a favourite of the

open to innovation, allowing Huguet to evolve

Obamas. Biel smiles when he thinks of the

and extend its product range, which now

former president walking on his company’s tiles. As well as bespoke tiles, the Campos factory offers collections by well-known architects and designers, including Carme Pinós, Sybilla,

“It’s very important to keep our identity – but offer an updated version to the world.”

includes items made from recycled terrazzo. “When I started twenty-three years ago, I was thinking about traditional floor tiles and sinks; now we have the skills, the passion and the willingness to go much further.”

Biel Huguet feels proud

Lluis Clotet, and Alfredo Häberli.

maintained

the

tradition

his

to have family

Several award-winning projects

Awards, extensive press coverage, social

heritage, whilst bringing the company into

have incorporated Huguet products: Szczecin

media, and exhibiting at the London Design

the 21st century and out to the world. Like E5

Philharmonic Hall in Poland won the 2015

Fair for the past three years have raised

Living, Huguet offers quality and a high level

Mies Van der Rohe Award and features

awareness. ‘Wallpaper’ magazine approached

of personalized service – which is why their

bespoke Barozzi Veiga Collection tiles, stairs,

Seoul-based Teo Yang Studio and Huguet

acclaimed hydraulic tiles grace the E5 Palma

furniture and washbasins. OHLAB’S MM

(both winners of ‘Wallpaper’ Design Awards) to

Old Town homes.

House in Génova, near Palma de Mallorca,

create contemporary birdbaths – dedicating

was ‘House of the Year’ in the 2016 World

two pages of their August 2019 edition to the

Architecture Festival.

story. When one of the world’s best-known

Dornbracht VAIA Create a new balance

dornbracht.com/vaia #createanewbalance

The

Shopping Guide

What is it you seek?

Is it sparkling, sensual, aromatic?

Is it traditional or avant-garde? Must it have been made on the island? Or, designed in one of the world’s most luxurious workshops? Perhaps you desire a piece so unique it will require the fine handiwork of expert artisan. Whatever it is you’re looking for, you’re certain to discover it within one of Palma’s beautiful boutiques, original craft markets or international stores.

The golden mile is home to the fashion industry’s most luxurious brands. The area covers elegant Paseo del Borne, bustling Avenida Jaime III and adjoining Calle de la Unión. Peruse the polished interiors of Carolina Herrerra, Louis Vuitton, Hugo Boss, Cartier, Rolex and Relojería Alemana; or indulge yourself with Corner Boutique’s combined collection of Prada, Gucci, Valentino, Moschino, Jimmy Choo and Lanvin or shop at Rouge where you find the finest collection of luxury vintage bags and accessories by Hermes, Chanel, Dior & Louis Vuitton, amongst others. Well-established high street names in fashion, fragrance, sports and lingerie can also be found in this shopper’s heaven; Zara, Mango, Desigual, Intimissimi, Decathlon and L’Occitane. If you prefer to find everything in one place, head to Spain’s favourite department store, El Corte Inglés.

Home is where the heart is, and judging by the giddy choice in interior design, it would seem a lot of heart goes into Palma’s residences. There are dozens of sensational furniture stores which will inspire you to transform your living space with every new season. Browse state of the art kitchens, beautiful bathrooms, lush fabrics and futuristic illumination at Trends, BConnected, Absoluthome, BANNI, Bondian Living and Organic Studio.

Luxury has been redefined.

Perhaps it’s high-

quality, sustainable fashion you’re searching for. That’s good news since Palma’s picturesque streets are home to numerous artisans who share those values. It’s possible to fill your wardrobe and indeed, your entire home, solely with pieces made on Mallorca. Fine jeweller, Jouells, creates their bespoke collection from heirlooms; in particularly, gold buttons from traditional Mallorcan dress. Isabel Guarch, another superior Mallorcan jeweller, finds her inspiration in the beauty, sensuality and colours of the Mediterranean. Audali, Camper, Monge and Majorica are all faithful to their island roots; and there are dozens more Balearic designers waiting to be discovered at the inspiring lifestyle and concept store, Rialto Living.

Shopping is an art which needn’t be rushed. Catch your breath at one of the many stylish cafés interspersed among the boutiques. Speaking of art, you may find the perfect piece in one of the Old Town’s reputable galleries. Pelaires, RED, Gerhardt Braun, Kewenig, La Caja Blanca, Gabriel Vanrell... We could continue. In fact, we haven’t even begun, because when it comes to shopping in Palma, the choice really is yours.

If you extend your search to include fashion made in the rest of Spain, you’ll be impressed by the variety and quality available. The charming streets of Sant Nicolau, Paraires and Can Verí are replete with independent boutiques selling luxury clothing, accessories and shoes.

Villa

San Miguel COMING SOON

Silence, privacy and luxury — The

third historical E5

project in Old Town Palma is situated on a very quiet residential street conveniently located just off La Rambla and behind the church of St. Miguel. It’s a unique location that offers very easy and comfortable pedestrian access to the best of what Palma has to offer and everything anyone may need.

Top local professionals and master craftsmen — This large property, originally built in 1930 is to undergo a complete renovation starting in 2020 and, will be restored to its former glory respecting traditional architectural and building traditions, incorporating top local professionals and master craftsmen.

A dream rooftop terrace — With its constructed area of 426m² and its extraordinary 100m² roof terrace, Villa San Miguel will be without a doubt another signature E5 Living property that raises the level of luxury living in Palma’s Old Town.

The

Architects ARCHIREVOLUTION

Michel Campioni and Javier Haro Greppi head up the multidisciplinary

They inherited the Villa San Lorenzo project

Hansgrohe sanitaryware, Huguet tiles and

from another architect, appointed by the

basins.

architectural

Archirevolution,

property’s previous owners. Having acquired

headquartered in rural Mallorca. Born in the

group

the four-storey townhouse for E5, Kevin Stevens

At time of writing, Cofradía is still in what Javier

same year, the two men have a shared passion

brought in the Archirevolution team to add their

calls the discovery stage: “I am waiting to go in

for architecture but are very different in some

aesthetic finish.

and really find out what raw materials we will have to work with.” Externally, they will remove

respects: Michel is Belgian; Javier is from Seville. The former is outgoing; the latter more reserved.

Both architects are now working on Can Fortuny

the poor-condition façade to see if they can

Despite Michel supporting Real Betis and Javier,

and Cofradía, although Michel is more involved

recuperate the old Mallorcan marés stone

the rival club Sevilla, the two have been friends

in Can Fortuny and Javier works mostly on

underneath. References will be made to the

for 20 years and have worked together much of

Cofradía.

townhall architecture office to see if any early

that time. “We complement each other and work

library photographs or records exist to establish

very well as a team,” Javier says.

authenticity of any alterations required.

Both qualified as architects in their native countries. Michel went to live in Seville, where he worked with Javier at another architect’s practice. They

founded

Archirevolution

“In Palma, we have to be respectful of the essence of the building”

A staircase (installed in a previous renovation) which “destroyed the beauty of the house” will be replaced with a wider one that’s more appropriate for the grandeur of the property.

Where parts of the house are quite dark, they

2008: Michel and his small team are based in Mallorca; Javier and his, in Seville – although he

They believe that the addition of contemporary

plan to bring in natural light by means of light

visits the island frequently.

features calls attention to and accentuates the

wells. And Javier is excited by the prospect of

Their projects have included an intervention in

soul of a building. The traditional architectural

the property’s patio.

Seville’s Cathedral, public buildings in Spain

features – old wooden beams and stone arches,

and, in the retail sector, Camper stores in

for example – will be restored to their former

The two architects may support rival football

New York City, Tokyo, Sao Paulo, Paris, Zurich

splendour. Huguet tiles and handmade stucco

teams, but where the E5 Living Palma properties

and Seville. They have also designed some

will be used to grace these properties.

are concerned, they share the same goal: restoring the quintessence of these noble

exceptional private homes. Can Fortuny hadn’t been changed or decorated

buildings and adding the comfort and luxuries

In Mallorca, Michel and Javier designed the

since the 1950s, when it was built. Despite the

of 21st-century living to enhance the value of

striking contemporary E5 Living properties Villa

“horrible decoration and materials”, Michel says

these homes.

Statera and Villa Anguli – the design of which

it still had a manorial feel. “We’re trying to keep

affords both light-filled homes spectacular

its classical soul, but using fine materials, such

uninterrupted Mediterranean views. In these

as very good-quality stone.”

stunning minimalist-design builds, they were restricted only by the plot limitations and local

Previously there was only one bathroom serving

building regulations. “In Palma, we have to

the three bedrooms. Archirevolution has given

be respectful of the essence of the building,”

each of the now four bedrooms an en suite

Michel says.

bathroom, with high-quality SensoWash toilets,

Villa

San Lorenzo A NEW LIFESTYLE CONCEPT IN PALMA

Located in one of the most exclusive neighbourhoods in Palma, with easy access to Es Baluard Museum, Paseo Marítimo, Paseo Mallorca, Jaime III and El Born offering, Villa San Lorenzo represents the best of what the Mallorcan capital has to offer. The Swiss Group E5 Living whose core values are, “customer obsessed”, “quality focussed” and “results driven” have dedicated 2 years to present to the market the first of three exclusive properties .

Stylish 21st century living

— Villa San Lorenzo is

the first private residence launched recently on the market with incredible success. The philosophy behind this project was to carefully and respectfully restore, the entire building to its former glory, retaining its heritage whilst providing comfortable and stylish 21st century living.

Carefully restoring the historical building, E5 worked with local partners to reincorporate noble materials such as the wrought iron staircase, natural wood, and local Santanyi stone to compliment the existing original features. In careful combination, the property is also equipped with the latest domotic installations, making it a modern, intelligent home easily operated with internal touch pads located throughout the villa, and also via apps on mobile phones or tablets.

Jewel in the crown

— Without a doubt the jewel in

the crown of Villa San Lorenzo is it’s unique split-level roof terrace, which comes complete with a fully equipped summer kitchen, bathroom and living area all leading out to the open terrace with your own private 7.5 m2 swimming pool (a rarity in Old Town Palma as swimming pools are no longer permitted due to strict planning regulations) and an incredible sundeck directly facing the Cathedral offering spectacular views including sea views! A lift goes from the ground floor to the roof terrace level and a private 2-car garage utilising an integral car lift facility compliment the property.

Bespoke interior design — Another of the important and unique aspects of Villa San Lorenzo is without doubt its interiors. Working very closely with the British Interior Designers Harris Byrne, the result has without doubt captured the essence of luxury Old Town living. Being their first project on Mallorca, after consulting with locals their signature bespoke style can be appreciated throughout the property. Truly a turn-key property and one of a kind in the market at present. It’s not difficult to see why so many local influencers are describing its recent completion as without doubt one of the best examples of old town Palma living.

Villa San Lorenzo with its bespoke coat of arms over the main door, its personalized towels, bathrobes, a Smart car in the garage and E5 Living wines, white, red and rosé in the custom-made bodega assures luxury at its best!

7 Showrooms in Mallorca www.espaciohdg.com

The

Mallorcan wines ES VERGER

If there is an island

Mallorca’s wine industry

has since

native Manto Negro grapes, for Es Verger’s

want a decent wine-storage space in your

been on an upward trajectory. Today the island

multi-award-winning varietal red, Ses Marjades.

home, it is Mallorca. The past decade has seen

has more than ninety bodegas. The oldest was

In 1995, the family planted three additional

considerable growth in the number of wineries

founded in 1711 and is still in the same family.

hectares, 450 metres above sea level, producing

– many producing high-quality wines to rival

Wealthy foreigners – including the Schwarzkopf

Merlot, Cabernet, Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc,

those of other European countries.

family, of hair-cosmetics fame – have recently

and Viognier grapes.

where you would

invested in architect-designed state-of-the-art Wine has been made in Mallorca since Roman

wineries.

times, but the number of vineyards spread

“It’s complicated in the mountains,” Rosa says, citing the disadvantage of working in narrow-

rapidly in the 19th century, when vines in

The purchaser of E5 Living’s Villa San Lorenzo

terraced vineyards. “But air is purer,” Miguel

countries including France, Italy, Portugal, and

will have the perfect excuse to explore Mallorca’s

counters. “And the temperature’s always a

Germany were destroyed by the tiny insect

many wineries: a stunning glass and wrought

beneficial five degrees lower than in the middle

phylloxera. Unaffected by the pest, Mallorca

iron, made-to-measure, LED-lit wine-storage

of Mallorca.” These climatic conditions enable

became wine supplier to the blighted countries.

facility. E5 Living has commissioned a generous

Es Verger to produce their luscious sweet Fita

In 1891, phylloxera arrived here, devastating the

supply of exclusive-label wines, from the

del Ram white wine, using Viognier grapes from

industry. Vines were ripped out and replaced by

boutique bodega Es Verger, for each of its Old

the highest vines.

almond trees, famous here for their beautiful

Town homes. The Fullana family winery nestles

blossom.

in the stunning Serra de Tramuntana mountain

Vines and winemaking returned gradually over

range, near Esporles, and is run by Miguel, his

Es Verger was one of Mallorca’s first ecological wineries. Rose bushes

daughter Rosa, and son Jaime.

growing amongst the vines are not aesthetic:

the decades, but tourism helped build today’s

“Roses detect disease before vines, giving

thriving industry: international visitors wanted

Less than thirty years after phylloxera arrived,

us an opportunity to treat the vines before

local wines. In the 1990s, winemakers stepped

Miguel’s grandfather planted vines in the

they become affected,” Miguel explains. The

up their game – planting foreign varieties of

winemaking area Santa Maria. Miguel and his

permitted ecological vine treatments they use

grapevines and investing in stainless-steel

family still tend these century-old vines. The

are neem oil, copper, and small quantities of

tanks and oak barrels.

four hectares produce low-yield high-quality

sulphur. “The start of the season is the most

difficult time, when the vine shoots are very

The family showcases their wines at the annual

Picual, and Mallorquina varieties. Es Verger

tender, and the leaves are fragile.” By early July,

Fira del Vi in Pollensa, Palma’s springtime Nit

EVOO has the prestigious Denomination of

treatment is only to control any problems. For

de Vi de Petits Cellers, and the Esporles sweet

Origin ‘Oli de Mallorca’ and received a coveted

the past ten to twelve years, the grapes have

fair, Fira Dolça. Internationally, they exhibit

German ‘Feinschmecker’ award. In a good year,

been “of very good quality.”

at ecological fairs Biofach (Nuremberg) and

they produce up to six thousand bottles of this

Millésime Bio (Montpellier).

liquid gold.

Es Verger makes six wines,

with a

The best way to discover

limited total annual production of around 15,000 bottles, under the geographical indication ‘Vi de la terra Mallorca’. “We prefer to produce smaller quantities because this maintains quality,” Miguel says. Although production is too small for Asian and American markets, they export to Europe – mainly Germany and Switzerland –

“We prefer to produce smaller quantities because this maintains quality”

and

appreciate Es Verger’s family values and passion for quality, rather than quantity, is to visit the bodega (by prior appointment). A tour of the spectacularly located vineyards and winery and tasting of their products is sure to reveal why E5 Living commissioned Es Verger to

and have distributors in Holland, Denmark, and

produce the exclusive-label red, white, and rosé

Switzerland.

wines that will be found in each of E5 Living’s The winery has a decent collection of awards

You can buy their wines at the bodega or from

for various Ses Marjades vintages – including

Mallorca’s quality-wine merchants Vinàmica,

several gold medals in the Concours Mondial de

La Vinoteca, and Catavinos, who also supply the

Bruxelles and silver in the Mundus Vini Biofach

hospitality sector. Es Verger wines are offered

– and an award for its sweet wine.

Palma Old Town homes.

in good restaurants, including the Michelinstarred Es Racó d’es Teix in Deià, Tomeu

But there’s more: Es Verger was the first winery

Caldentey Cuiner in Sa Coma, and Molí des

in Mallorca to make organic extra virgin olive oil

Torrent in Santa Maria.

using its own modern olive press and the coldextraction process. It’s a blend of Arbequina,

¡Salud! 55

The acclaimed

20th-century French

When Kevin Stevens chose to commission a

Mediterranean collections (15 years ago) was

dramatist Jean Giraudoux once said, “Often I

unique item for the discerning purchasers of

a modern interpretation of the traditional

don’t recognize faces, but I always recognize

the E5 Living homes it had to be from Isabel.

Mallorcan jewel, the Calatrava cross. It was

the jewellery.” Mallorca’s most recognizable

The exquisite rose-gold-and-amethyst piece

a risk: “This was a time when people wanted

jewellery captures the spirit of Mallorca and the

she designed is a precious representation of a

new designs and established luxury brands,”

Mediterranean joie de vivre and is designed by

Palma icon.

Isabel explains. “But it was a success and we

the elegant Isabel Guarch.

decided to make one new collection every year,

The story of this econd-generation jewellery

presenting it each May.” In spring 2019, Isabel

The appeal of Isabel’s jewellery goes beyond the

business, started by Isabel’s mother (also named

presented all her Mediterranean collections on

shores of Mallorca: magazine photographs of

Isabel), goes back some fifty years. Clients used

the catwalk at Ibiza’s Pasarela Adlib, to mark

emeritus Queen Sofia of Spain – a regular visitor

to visit Isabel Guarch’s showroom, in her 14th-

their 15th anniversary.

to the island – have captured her wearing Isabel

floor-apartment home in Palma’s Plaza Madrid.

Guarch jewellery. At New York Fashion Week last

Her daughter followed in her mother’s footsteps

In 2013 the jewellery designer opened her

year, screen actress Kelly Rutherford wore a

and studied gemology and design in Paris – and

atelier/boutique in the heart of Palma. No style-

ring from the ‘Happy Heart’ collection, designed

now runs the business.

conscious woman should walk through Plaza

by Isabel in collaboration with New York-based Mallorcan painter Domingo Zapata.

del Mercado without stopping to gaze at the The

first

Isabel

Guarch’s

renowned

tasteful Isabel Guarch window display.

The

Jeweller y Designer ISABEL GUARCH

complements more casual attire, making them suitable for everyday wear.

In September 2019,

the prestigious

contemporary Gallery RED in Palma hosted the launch of its exclusive collection ‘Papallona’, which Isabel designed. She was inspired by Damien Hirst’s ‘Las Mariposas’ to create the collection of only nine jewelled butterflies, sparkling with Mediterranean Sea-coloured gems. As usual, Isabel launched a new Mediterranean

me. ” An example of this? She has continued the

collection in the autumn: ‘Raïm’ (the Mallorcan

tradition (started by her mother thirty-five years

name for ‘grape’) features natural vine leaves

ago) of twice-yearly personal visits to individual

coated in gold. “No two pieces are the same.”

private clients living on the Peninsula.

One client came to Isabel

with a

ring inherited from her mother (and made by Isabel’s mother), which she wanted to update

An Isabel Guarch wearer

is typically

and adapt to suit her own style. When the client

independent and very confident. She may be

collected her new-look ring, “she started to cry

aged from 18 to 90, and has an eye for beauty,

with emotion to see her mother’s ring updated,”

design, style, and quality. She will identify

Isabel recalls. “She was very happy and said she

with and recognize Isabel’s designs, whether

would wear it always.”

“Estoy agradecida a mis fieles clientes, quiero cuidarlos, igual que ellos me cuidan a mí.”

it’s a piece from her surprisingly affordable Mediterranean collections or her bespoke and

Isabel, who wears her stunning jewellery with

signature couture – alta joyería – jewellery,

great style, merely smiles when asked about her

sparkling with diamonds and other precious

famous clients. Discretion is another example of

gems.

the personalized service that clients enjoy from Isabel Guarch.

Isabel designed an exclusive jewel for Christmas 2019, featuring the head of the Myotragus – the extinct Balearic mouse-goat. “Myotragus is a very important part of Mallorca’s history and nobody else has done anything like this,” she says. “It’s not a commercial piece, so I decided to make it in gold, with diamonds. It will completely surprise people!”.

Diamonds also feature in some of

An Isabel Guarch wearer

is typically

Isabel Guarch works with a few trusted artisan goldsmiths in Mallorca

independent and very confident. She may be

to craft the jewellery she designs. Similarly, she

design, style, and quality. She will identify

aged from 18 to 90, and has an eye for beauty,

her

sources her gems from just a small number of

with and recognize Isabel’s designs, whether

exceptional contemporary bracelets, which

suppliers, thereby ensuring the most attentive

it’s a piece from her surprisingly affordable

combine numerous gems with leather or

service from them.

Mediterranean collections or her bespoke and

fabric. Discreet but luxurious, no two of these

signature couture – alta joyería – jewellery,

bracelets are the same. These pieces are not

“I am grateful to my loyal clients,” Isabel says. “I

sparkling with diamonds and other precious

just for dress-up occasions: the design also

want to take care of them, as they take care of

gems.

The

Artisan Jeweller y Makers PACO & JULIÁN SERRANO

When Isabel Guarch

had the agreed

Julián counted El Corte Inglés as a client. His

Paco and Julián have a system which means

design for E5 Living’s exclusive commission, she

son Paco began making jewellery at the age of

they could recreate any piece – perhaps made

asked trusted artisans Paco and Julián Serrano

16 – almost thirty years ago.

years ago for a wide range of clients – from

to turn that design into a lasting treasure in

the appropriately numbered mould in one of

rose gold and amethyst, using the jewellery-

the piles around the place, or on the collection

making skills the father and son have honed over decades. The men have produced Isabel’s collections for the past decade and say they get “a lot of satisfaction” from the work.

The men have produced Isabel’s collections for the past decade.

boards hanging on the walls.

Producing any item of jewellery from a design (or sometimes a metal piece) is a multi-stage process, taking many hours.

Julián has always been an artisan jewellery

Plasticine, plaster, and wax are materials used in

maker. He started in Madrid, where his family

Their workshop is a building in front of their

the early stages, which involve making a mould

lived for thirty years, before he returned to his

rural home near Santa Maria. To an outsider,

into which the molten precious metals will be

native island, Mallorca. In the Spanish capital,

the interior looks somewhat disorderly. But

poured. Although various types of equipment

are used, skilled hands play an important role throughout. The refining, cleaning, and polishing of each gold or silver item is intricate work, done by hands many times larger than the pieces they bring to perfection.

Paco and Julián have had to modernize and adapt, to survive. Like other artisans in Mallorca, Paco and Julián have had to modernize and adapt, to survive. Three years ago, they bought a second-hand modern kiln, for an eye-watering 40,000€. They’ve also invested in new technology: away from the workshop’s plaster-dusty environment, these mature craftsmen have dedicated a room in their home to a computer and 3D printer. Paco has learnt how to use this state-of-the-art technology to create on-screen designs, which are then 3D printed. It’s a more time-efficient way to produce the wax models that will shape the jewellery. This perfect combination of timehonoured craftsmanship and use of cuttingedge technology produces the pieces that future purchasers of an E5 Old Town property will surely treasure.

7 Showrooms in Mallorca www.espaciohdg.com

Let me

Entertain you! Rock or ballet? Flamenco or opera? An intimate theatrical performance in a bohemian café, or a Broadway musical? In fact, why choose one or the other when it’s perfectly possible to enjoy them all. Performing artists always look forward to a date in Palma and the city’s annual programme of events seldom disappoints.

Contemporary Palma will rock you.

Its auditorium, which recently

celebrated 50 years, hosts a whirlwind of shows which include seasoned tribute bands, hit singers and magical musicals. Feel the vibrations of past rock kings and queens, the nostalgia of big brass bands, the melodies of Spain and Latin America’s chart-topping singers and all the latest tendencies in electronic, funk, jazz, pop and everything in between. Trui Teatre is another of Palma’s creative platforms which merges comedy, drama, circus, music and even conferences on topical themes. Alternatively, mingle with the locals at down-to-earth live music venues, such as Es Gremi and Sa Possessió; or unwind with cocktails and international DJs at one of the capital’s many exclusive sky bars and beach clubs.

Classical Let’s begin with a gentle prelude performed by the Balearic Island’s Symphony Orchestra. As one of Spain’s most important orchestras, it attracts award-winning musicians and conductors to its ranks every year to interpret the works of legendary composers. They are the beating heart in powerful productions at Teatre Principal. A crescendo now, as the drama unfolds for Opera and Ballet Season, and Russia’s finest dancers descend on Palma to enthrall the audience with their timeless elegance. Madame Butterfly or The Marriage of Figaro, La Traviata or Rigoletto; fall in love all over again with compositions which will stand the test of time.

Traditional Mallorca is fiercely protective

of its cultural

heritage. If you wished, you could spend every weekend celebrating some patron saint or local ingredient in a different town around the island. Palma hosts countless fairs and fiestas, and is very generous in the allocation of time given to celebrating them. Concerts, folk-dancing, religious processions, parades, pyrotechnics, communal barbeques, artisan markets, sporting tournaments and open air cinema are all activities regularly staged on this vibrant city’s lively streets.

Beyond For high-quality and varied entertainment, there’s no need to leave the capital. That’s not to say there aren’t a wealth of experiences waiting for you a little further afield. Mallorca’s performance venues are diverse. Atmospheric castles, glamorous ports, authentic mountain villages and picturesque coastal towns provide the backdrop to some truly special events.

The luxury

Real Estate Agent J O H N TAY LO R

In 1864, 30-year-old John Taylor opened his

clients may not speak Spanish,” Pierce says.

real estate business in Cannes. His reputation

The seven-strong multilingual John Taylor team

and success lead to expansion along the

will help their clients with lawyers, securing

And not just from an investment point of view.

southern French coast, where he managed

finance, builders, interior designers and even

Foreigners value Mallorca for its high level

an exceptional property portfolio for British,

schools and doctors – using their extensive local

of security, low crime rate, privacy and great

French, and American aristocratic and political

knowledge and contacts.

infrastructure, which facilitates year-round

classes.

because it’s a sure bet.”

travel between the island and other European Catalina’s experience and “very good contacts”

cities. Pierce adds that Mallorca also has

is the world’s oldest real

in the banking sector enable her to introduce

two royal residences: Almudaina (next to the

estate company focusing on luxury properties,

clients to banks able to deal with the specific

Cathedral) and Marivent, on the city’s outskirts.

with offices in almost twenty countries. It’s

requirements

for

“This means that Mallorca enjoys a level of

now one of three companies in what’s known

foreigners. “When it’s for a second residence,

security that’s equal only to that of Madrid – 365

as The Group, which can fulfil the desires of the

foreigners can borrow 70% of the purchase

days a year.”

wealthy. The others are Artcurial (the top French

price,” Catalina says, adding that not everyone

auction house) and Arcana, which breeds and

needs a mortgage. “Nowadays, if you have

Pierce and Catalina

supplies Thoroughbreds to clients including

money in the bank, you have to pay to keep it

E5 Living’s Villa San Lorenzo: “It’s a complete,

Queen Elizabeth II and Middle Eastern royalty.

there. Putting that money into property in Palma

three-storey townhouse, restored to its former

is a good investment.” Last year, Palma property

glory,” Pierce says. The trend in recent years

John Taylor’s office in the heart of Palma de

transactions amounted to 43% of those for the

has been for old houses to be redeveloped

Mallorca is the exclusive agent for E5 Living’s

entire island.

into apartments. “And the property is finished,”

Today John Taylor

Palma Old Town homes.

relating

mortgages

are excited about

“Very personalized

Catalina adds. “This isn’t easy to find in

service is the reason for the brand’s longevity,”

Palma, where there are lots of projects under

explains Irish-born Pierce Broderick, one of the branch’s two managing partners. “We are service providers – this is our vocation.” Pierce has worked in the luxury real estate sector

“Very personalized service is the reason for the brand’s longevity”

development – but not ready.”

Its location

– close to Es Baluard, Jaime

III, the Borne, and the sea – is another factor. The home has a double garage and an elevator

for twenty years, including a year at John

right up to the roof terrace – a rarity in the Old

Taylor’s head office. He and Catalina Quetglas

Town. “The cherry on the cake for me is the

twenty-five years in banking – opened their

Mallorca’s appeal to diverse nationalities is a bonus. “There are not

John Taylor franchise in Palma in March 2018.

many property markets in the world that

and lounge area, private pool, and spectacular

The two business partners refer to it as a ‘one-

are so levelled out with all these different

direct views to the Cathedral,” Pierce says. For

stop shop’, offering services above and beyond

nationalities,” Pierce explains. He says that

their first project in Palma, British company

finding the perfect property for their clients.

British demand has dipped, as a result of

Harris Byrne Interiors designed and decorated

Brexit uncertainty, “but we are buoyant with the

this stunning home – another unique point.

– a Mallorcan who came into real estate from

“We are primarily in the second-home market

Germans, Scandinavians, Italians, and Belgians.

and understand that the vast majority of our

The reason so many people invest in Mallorca is

85sqm terrace, with beautiful summer kitchen

John Taylor brought Can Fortuny and the

property in Calle de Cofradía de San Miguel to

It’s basically a villa sitting on top of a building

the attention of E5 Living’s President & Founder:

– and that’s unique. And it’s the first time this

Kevin Stevens. “When Catalina and I first met

property has come on the market in the last 50

Kevin, my goal was to visualize what he wanted

years.”

to achieve. We had long discussions and I built a clear picture. We searched for stand-out, star

The third property is another complete

projects in superb locations for him and found

house, just behind the San Miguel church – with

these two.”

an amazing roof terrace and lots of space for relaxing and socializing. “All three properties

“What makes this redevelopment stand out is that it’s a duplex penthouse with a wraparound terrace.”

allow for a very comfortable lifestyle, because everything can be done on foot – although all come with parking.” “They’re in the middle of everything, but superquiet,” Catalina adds. “It’s something all our clients want.” Like the 19th-century John Taylor, Pierce

Can Fortuny is just off beautiful

Broderick and Catalina Quetglas and their team

Plaza

prime-location

are passionately committed to understanding

building has a lovely mallorquín patio and is

Santa

Eulàlia.

The

and delivering – with highly personalized

a community of just five apartments. “What

service – what their discerning clients want. It’s

makes this redevelopment stand out is that it’s

their vocation.

a duplex penthouse with a wrap-around terrace.

Pa l m a

History A CITY’S HISTORY SHAPED BY INVADERS, CONQUERORS A N D P I R AT ES

Whilst strolling around Palma always

taken captive were beheaded. This “economic

Mallorca’s coastline

remember to look up to admire the ornate

activity” was considered a type of Holy War and

impossible to fortify everywhere and so a ring

“miradors” (covered

overlooking

did not contravene the Quran, which permits

of observation towers was built at strategic

the narrow cobbled streets, and the intricate

slavery. Interestingly, many of these pirates were

points. Watchmen kept a lookout for suspicious

detailing on the wooden eaves of the historic

Christian captives who had converted to Islam

ships and warned the villagers and the military

“palacios” and manor houses.

The wealth

or Muslims who had been forced to convert to

by lighting a series of bonfires in a clockwise or

of architecture, from Gothic to Modernist,

Christianity and were then expelled from Spain.

anti-clockwise direction, from tower to tower

monuments and ancient city walls are all

The Romans founded Palmeria in 123 BC and

around the island until the warning reached the

testimony to Palma’s rich history.

established its port trading in Tyrian purple,

Angel Tower on the Almudaina Palace in Palma.

balconies)

meant it was

olive oil, wine, onions and snails, as well as

The island’s geographical position,

other products. The city’s name changed to

The Spanish War of Independence (1808-

in the western Mediterranean, has made it

Medina Mayurqa with the arrival of the Moors

1814) led to a significant increase in Palma’s

a natural landfall and an attractive base for

in AD 902 who had a profound influence on

population as refugees arrived from the

invaders and conquerors and Palma’s location

the island’s architecture, culture, and customs.

mainland and abroad, making the city a very

beside the sea has made the city an important

Today, we can still enjoy the shady gardens

lively place. In 1833, under the territorial division

point of entry and a bustling trading port over

below the Almudaina Palace with its fountains

of Spain, the city was officially named Palma

the centuries.

and pergolas arranged in typical symmetric

de Mallorca and declared the capital of the

style, and a visit to the remains of the Arab

Balearic Islands. Trade flourished, especially

The worst scourge was the Barbary pirates, so called because they

Baths offers a glimpse of daily life during that

with the exportation of wine to the Spanish

period. The end of the Arab period came with

mainland and France.

came from the area where the Berbers lived,

the conquest that James I of Aragon embarked

now Mauritania, Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia

upon at the age of just 21. His army landed at

After the Spanish Civil War and by the early

and Libya. Their attacks reached a peak in

Santa Ponsa on 10 September 1229, after a

1950’s the island’s new “conquistadors” were

the seventeenth century, although they were

bloody battle it took Palma on 31 December

tourists. Recognising Mallorca’s potential for

active from the sixteenth to the mid-nineteenth

1229 and two years later conquered the entire

tourism, a major investment was made with

century. Traces of their raids can be seen in the

island (1231).

the opening of the International Son Sant Joan

many watchtowers that were built along the

Airport in 1960 just 8 km from the city centre.

island’s coastline and in the celebrations that

King James I renamed the city Ciutat

are held throughout the year in locations such

de Mallorca, and declared it the capital of the

as Sóller, Pollença, Sant Elm and Valldemossa,

Kingdom of Mallorca. In thanksgiving for his

Since those early days of tourism, Palma has emerged as an elegant

where colourful historic episodes from the

successful conquest, he laid the cornerstone for

Mediterranean city and a destination in its own

fight against the pirates are re-enacted. It is

Palma’s famous Gothic Cathedral “La Seu”, still

right offering culture, sophistication, stylish

no wonder they are remembered, given that

the most recognisable landmark on Mallorca.

hotels, restaurants, café society, designer

their atrocities shocked Mallorca’s inhabitants

With the Christian monarchs, the city prospered

shopping, and nightlife. Its ancient walls may

deeply. The main purpose of their attacks was

and many of its famous monuments were

have witnessed many battles, conquerors and

to capture women and children to sell as slaves

constructed during this time, while its wealth

pirates and although they are all long gone, their

or to kidnap for a ransom. Men who were not

also made it a prime target for attack by pirates.

legacy to this fascinating city remains.

Mallorquín According to Robert Graves:

“Mallorcans speak

Mallorquín, a language as old as English and purer than Catalan or Provençal, its nearest relatives”. Nevertheless, the origins of the language are a source of passionate debate, in which philological and historical questions intertwine with political preferences and issues of identity. Even the name itself is controversial. Although officially known as Catalan, many believe it should be called Mallorquín or Balear. Some people claim that after James I of Aragon conquered Mallorcan from the Arabs in 1229, the island was repopulated with people from Catalonia (later there was another wave of Catalan settlers) and the language they brought with them evolved, becoming a dialect of Catalan with marked differences to the Catalan language spoken on the mainland. Other experts say the complete opposite, stating that Mallorquín comes from the language the islanders spoke before James I arrived, a language that had evolved from Vulgar Latin with influences brought by Italian seafarers, arguing that it is impossible for Mallorquín to have descended from Catalan as the latter is a much younger language. There are also those who claim that its origin lies in a mixture of the language spoken by the Christians who lived alongside the Arabs on the island and Occitan, a language from the south of France that reached Mallorca with James I.

Mallorcan

Culture

It is thought that Mallorca may have been inhabited as early as 8000 BC. Around the year 900 BC the Talayotic settlements were invaded, possibly from the Gulf of Lion and the Catalonian coast. Later, through invasions, war and trade, Greeks, Etruscans, Phoenicians, Carthaginians, Romans, Byzantines, Muslims, Spaniards and Italians all left their mark on the island. Regarding the Christianisation of Mallorca, there is mention of a Bishop Elias in the year 480. Naturally, all these historical events combined with natural factors created a very special culture: from its habits and customs, folklore, gastronomy, traditions, myths and legends to its literature, architecture and art.

Fiestas and Feasting Celebrating is an integral part of Mallorcan life and “fiestas” play an important part in keeping traditional local culture alive. In January, Mallorca’s villages and the city of Palma celebrate the fiesta of Sant Antoni, the patron saint of animals. During the day, a special mass is held when residents gather at the village church with their pets and animals, from hamsters to horses, to be blessed by the local priest. At night fires are lit on the streets with open grills to cook “botifarró” sausages and grill slices of country bread for the “sobrassada”, a spicy pork paté, all washed down with plenty of wine. Typically, the “dimonis” devils put on a noisy and spectacular firework

Summer is also an important time for fiestas across the

display to ward off evil spirits.

island and some of the liveliest take place in Sóller, Pollensa and Santa Ponsa with the re-enactment of the historic “Moors

In Palma, they celebrate Sant Sebastià, the city’s patron saint,

and Christians” battle. This tends to be a colourful, noisy affair

with fires, open grills and music. All the major squares in the

when locals dress up in historical costumes (which differ

centre are transformed into stages and the city buzzes with

depending on which side they have elected to “fight” for) and a

music, from pop and rock to latin and jazz.

rowdy battle ensues.

Summer is also an important time for fiestas across the island and some of the liveliest take place in Sóller, Pollensa and Santa Ponsa with the re-enactment of the historic “Moors and Christians” battle. This tends to be a colourful, noisy affair when locals dress up in historical costumes (which differ depending on which side they have elected to “fight” for) and a rowdy battle ensues.

Food Much of the traditional Mallorcan cuisine is based on simple country fare that harks back to times when people had to survive on whatever crops, meat and fish were available. The “matanzas”, the slaughter of a pig in winter, provided a variety of traditional dishes including the famous “sobrassada” and “botifarró” and “camaiot” sausages. Typical dishes include tumbet (similar to ratatouille); pa amb oli (country bread rubbed with tomato and with various toppings); frito (made with meat, offal, vegetables and herbs); arroz brut (a rice stew with meat and vegetables); caracoles (snails); empanadas (savoury meat and vegetable pies) and the famous ensaimada (a round flat pastry made with flour and lard). So whatever the time of the year you can always join the locals in their celebration of all colourful, vibrant and wonderful Mallorca.

www.espaciohdg.com

Paseo Mallorca, 17D

07011 Palma

971 221 551

Gourmands We l c o m e

Palma is a paradise for gourmands.

always require a formal setting. Palma’s fresh

is one such venue with a tasty programme of

Rarely a week goes by without a fair being

food markets offer a lively atmosphere in

courses. A word of warning though, you may find

held dedicated to one of the island’s prized

which to sample a wide selection of succulent

yourself being distracted on arrival by all the

ingredients. Whether olive oil from Caimari,

seafood, superior cured meats and divine

mouthwatering display cases. The food market,

wine from Binissalem, sea salt from Es Trenc or

cheeses. In Mercat de l’Olivar, visitors are often

which is housed in a prize-winning modernist

Sobrasada from Campos; it’s fresh local produce

unable to resist the lure of the gastronomic

building, is the ideal place to go with friends who

which fuels the kitchens of the Balearic capital.

stations adjacent to the market stalls. After all,

all want something different, but all share a love

a moment of consideration while you enjoy fresh

of great food.

And there are many, many kitchens competing

oysters and sparkling wine, is advisable when

to create the most complete and creative dining

there’s so much choice laid out before you.

Tapas are also a hugely important part of

experience. Even high end restaurants offer

Palma’s foodie culture. Every year for TaPalma,

excellent value three-course lunch deals. While

chefs across the island battle to concoct the

top chefs appreciate local ingredients, they also relish the challenge of taking their clients on a sensory adventure around the globe. Fusion cuisine is abundant; fragrant, colourful and sometimes quite unexpected.

It’s not only the dishes

which are

exquisite. Palma has some truly remarkable dining rooms; from tranquil internal courtyards

Palma’s fresh food markets offer a lively atmosphere in which to sample a wide selection of succulent seafood, superior cured meats and divine cheeses.

in historic manors to contemporary rooftop

most innovative and tasty creation. There’s even a weekly tapas route, called La Ruta Martiana, in which participating bars offer a tapa and a drink for as little as two euros. Tapeando really is the perfect way to try lots of different flavours in one sitting.

The Mediterranean diet is famous for being nutritious and delicious; Palma embraces its roots but also warmly welcomes the diversity

terraces with stunning sea views. There

of international cuisine. One thing is certain, in

are palaces, stables, vaulted cellars and

Palma’s

exciting

gastronomic

offering

monasteries; all which have been converted into

happens to fill with you with a sudden desire

temples devoted to fine dining.

to don a chef’s hat, there are numerous show

the Balearic capital you will never be hungry for exceptional food.

cooking events and workshops to teach you the Of course, high quality gastronomy doesn’t

necessary skills. San Juan Gastronomic Market

www.espaciohdg.com

Eusebio Estada, 11b

07004 Palma

971 759 700

Sant Feliu, 6

07012 Palma

971 713 258

We l l b e i n g in the City

Its position beside the sea, its temperate climate, wholesome Mediterranean gastronomy and diverse cultural offerings combine to make Palma a city where nourishment for the mind, body and soul is easy to find. Here are some of the ways in which you can bring harmony to your everyday life.

El Paseo Marítimo They say people who live beside a body of water are happier. Walkers, runners and cyclists all take advantage of Palma’s uplifting seaside promenade and cycle path, which extends for a distance of as much as fourteen kilometres. Whether you have ten minutes to spare, or a couple of hours, a spell beside the waterfront is sure to leave you feeling invigorated.

Bellver Forest The forest surrounding

Bellver Castle offers city-

dwellers a space to immerse themselves in nature without having to travel far. It’s situated just three kilometres from the city centre, yet at times you’ll feel like you’ve left the town far behind. Breathe in the calming scent of pine and rosemary as you wander, jog or cycle along tranquil paths or enjoy a picnic under the shade of an obliging tree.

Art An Artist Date is a term

coined by author Julia

Cameron to describe a solo outing to refill your depleted creative inner well. Since Palma is one of the Spanish cities with the most museums and galleries per capita, finding inspiration won’t be a challenge. From notable works by Spain’s most influential vanguard painters, to installations by today’s acclaimed artists, the Balearic capital caters to every preference.

Spas For deeper relaxation, head to one of Palma’s many intimate spas where tailor-made treatments will restore a sense of inner balance. Under vaulted sandstone ceilings, soothing mood lighting will lull you into a state of calm as you soak in a thermal bath. After a massage and refreshment, you’ll reemerge into the sunshine feeling like you’ve been away for the weekend.

Yoga & Meditation Greater

strength,

flexibility

and

heightened

awareness are the benefits of regular yoga practice. Palma’s yoga studios and personal coaches offer a complete range of styles including Ashtanga, Hatha, Kundalini and Bikram. The holistic community is truly thriving in the Balearics. Meditation workshops are also widely available, gathering people from all walks of life, to share in the power of silence.

Watersports Feel the sun on your face and the sea breeze in your hair as you leave the shoreline behind. Paddleboarding is an example of a watersport which is not only great for staying toned but also a gentle way of connecting with the ocean. Alternatively, why not hire a kayak or canoe? It’s not uncommon to see locals taking their dogs out for a peaceful early morning voyage.

Golf Mallorca is a popular destination for golfers with over twenty top golf courses located around the island. If you reside in Palma, a mere fifteen minute drive is all it will take to arrive at three of the most prestigious. Regardless of whether you are an advanced player or a beginner, you’ll no doubt find both challenges and a sense of wellbeing as you walk through beautifully maintained grounds.

Charter a Yacht Indulge in the luxurious Mediterranean lifestyle with a relaxing day out at sea. As a leading yachting destination, there’s no shortage of charter companies in Palma committed to delivering bespoke sailing experiences. Enjoy the sunshine and seclusion from your private deck, while you savour the attractive skyline of a city which offers so much.

Striking

designs

a rc h i t e c t u ra l

creating the ultimate in

c o nt e m p o ra r y Me d i t e r ra n e a n l i v i n g .

Spectacular, panoramic sea views over the Cap Andritxol headland and Camp de Mar bay.

PHASE II — COMING SOON 87

Sleek

glass façades allow

and light between

to flow seamlessly

interior and exterior

spaces.

The Carpe Diem villas

provide a perfect sense of

wellbeing to enjoy with family and friends.

space

State of the art smart home &

technology

re newable

e n e r g y.

In-depth security and privacy studies incorporated in the designs 90

High-end,

design, work

bespoke

perfect for combining & easy

Premium

location

southwest region.

interior

living.

in the island’s sought-after

Camp de Mar

Camp de Mar is an exciting and rare development on prime coastal land in a quiet residential area of the island’s sought-after southwest region.

The

star feature is its amazing location, which is quite simply unbeatable in the southwest with stunning open sea views over to the Cap Andritxol headland that dramatically rises up from the sea. The location and views have inspired an innovative approach

the

cutting-edge

architectural

studio, Archirevolution, to create the ultimate in Mediterranean living beside the sea. In this macro project, one of the most important and challenging

It’s one of the few sites left on the island that

strategic decisions, was to accurately design from

offers open sea views, uninterrupted sun splays

the projected sightlines out to sea, so that each villa

and privacy due to the careful design and strict

enjoys its own unique view that is not hindered by its neighbour. The Swiss E5 Group, who own the land, are the experienced developers behind the entire Carpe Diem Camp de Mar project of 13 extraordinary villas. The first two villas will be completed by summer

Land Heatmap — Market Report Source: Engel & Volkers, Spanish Ministry of Development, Balearic Islands Tourism Agency, AENA S.A., Casafari LLC

attention to sight lines. Another important plus is the location which is within 5 minutes’ drive of Puerto Andratx for shopping, restaurants, bars, boutiques and the yacht club, only 20 minutes from Palma and 25 minutes from Palma’s International Airport.

2019 at the same time plans have been released

Camp de Mar itself, there is the 18-hole “Golf de

to build a further four villas in Phase II starting this

Andratx” course, the 5-star Steigenberger Hotel

autumn with estimated completion of early 2021.

and Spa Resort, a variety of excellent restaurants,

The third and final phase is currently undergoing

cafes, shops, local sandy beaches and water sports.

meticulous planning and design, in keeping with the

The area will soon have a new luxury 5-star resort

exacting standards upon which this Swiss Group

when the Zafiro Palace Andratx opens in 2020,

prides itself.

expanding the facilities in the area, to include five new restaurants and a large spa and gymnasium.

SHOPPING

5’

BARS

RESTAURANTS

OLD TOWN

AIRPORT

5’

20’

25’ 95

On a glorious spring day, E5 Living Europe launched two new stunning residences; Villa Statera and Villa Anguli, where guests spilled out onto the terraces to enjoy the sunshine and the spectacular sea views across Camp de Mar.

Ar t meets Arch i te cht u re and De s i g n Where

E5’s “Where Art Meets Architecture & Design” event was the perfect showcase to recognise the work of architect, Michel Campioni who has created inspirational spaces flooded with light and endless views to the sea. Designers, Terraza Balear, have added their magic with stylish interiors for Villa Statera featuring pieces by Minotti and Flexform; a state of the art Poliform kitchen and fabulous Dedon and Tribú furniture for the extensive exterior spaces which include a spectacular roof terrace with 360º views.

These bright spaces

with high ceilings provided a

blank canvas for Gallery Red, selecting works by Warhol, Hirst and Banksy for Villa Anguli to create an enviable collection of some of the world’s leading contemporary artists. Engel & Völkers provided inside knowledge on the real estate market underlining the safe haven investment opportunity of the area. Finally, for car sustainability enthusiasts, Autos Vidal offered the opportunity to test drive the new SUV Mercedes Benz EQC with a Product Expert and also to view the spectacular Mercedes Benz EQS.

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Kevin Stevens — E5

This dream team

of professionals

at the top of their game have provided the perfect alignment of vision, skills, style and expertise to achieve supremely comfortable state-of-the art Mediterranean residences

Hans Lenz — Engel & Vöelkers

to celebrate life and enjoy – Carpe Diem!

Mariana Muñoz — Terraza Balear Pablo Forner — Autovidal

Drew Aaron — Gallery Red

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The

Preservation Fa c i l i t a t o r

Philanthropy M A LLO R CA P R ES E RVAT I O N FO U N DAT I O N

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When the global pandemic

the importance of accessible, abundant, and

Ibiza now and you can hardly find a restaurant

the pause button on mankind’s daily assault on

pressed

well-functioning

that doesn’t offer one euro on every cover for

our planet, the natural world began to heal. In

usually frenetically busy had time to appreciate

Mallorca, this was evident in the crystal-clear

surprising viral images, such as dolphins in

waters of silent marinas and pristine bays, and

Trieste harbour, wild boar trotting through

The environmentalist stresses that the Funds

the clarity of the blue skies.

deserted Berlin streets, and the Himalaya

and Foundations (the different names are due to

visible from northern India for the first time in

semantics in each location) don’t undertake any

two generations.”

restoration work but provide funds for existing

The subsequent enthusiasm for the recovery

nature. “People

who

are

of Mallorca’s natural environment augurs well

Ibiza Preservation.”

local environmental initiatives.

for the Mallorca Preservation Foundation, which raises funds to support the island’s protection, preservation, and sustainability. It’s one of ten (and counting) philanthropic Funds and Foundations under the umbrella of the UK charity Conservation Collective – which has been voted by Condé Nast Traveller as one of the “50 People and Places Making the World a Better Place”.

“We think that solving environmental problems in the place they love is the formula to get people to put their hands in their pockets.”

We found out more from Ben Goldsmith,

He is excited about activities in Mallorca. “We’ve supported the local organic farmers’ association (APAEMA) to introduce bioplastics made from potato starch – which has saved a huge amount of mulching plastic.” His sights are set on the restoration of abundance in the sea here and a transition to artisanal organic agriculture to create a local food economy. “We need to scale up now. There are so many

founder and chairman of the latter, and Hans

During a stay in Ibiza, more than a decade ago,

brilliant groups in Mallorca that need our

Lenz, chairman of the Mallorca Preservation

Goldsmith discovered the island’s unspoilt

support,” Ben Goldsmith says. “We’re excited to

Foundation’s steering committee.

natural beauty; his local friend, however, voiced

have Hans Lenz on board – it’s been a cause for

fears that in less than fifteen years, Ibiza could

great celebration.”

Conservation Collective Passionate environmentalist Ben Goldsmith walks his talk: he is rewilding 300 acres of former dairy-farming land at his Somerset farm home. He thinks his lifelong love for the natural world stems from the many early nature experiences shared with his elder brother Zac (now Britain’s Minister for the International Environment and Climate, and UK Animal Welfare and Forests).

look like another Costa del Sol. Goldsmith suggested that the solution could be with those

Mallorca Preservation

who loved the island and wanted to restore and

Foundation

protect its natural heritage. “Ibiza Preservation was born out of this conversation,” he says. “To some degree, it’s like a small club of foreigners and locals, individuals and businesses, who choose to pool some

With a German father and Mallorcan mother, Hans Lenz is not a typical islander – but he is deeply rooted in rural Mallorca, where he spent part of his childhood in Santa Maria.

resources to turbocharge the work of individuals and organisations dedicated to the restoration of nature in Ibiza.” The successful initiative has been replicated in locations including the Aeolian Islands, Barbados, St Vincent & The Grenadines, Sri Lanka, Devon, and Mallorca – all with the common goal of raising local funding for grassroots environmental work. “Humans tend to form tremendous connections

Goldsmith believes that everyone is born with a love of nature. “Try and find any twoor three-year-old who’s not fascinated by a praying mantis. You won’t.” He believes this innate quality becomes buried in some people – but not completely: “Even those with little connection with nature will pay twice as much for an apartment that overlooks a park, versus one that doesn’t.” He believes the Covid-19 crisis has highlighted

with places,” Goldsmith says. “We think that solving environmental problems in the place they love is the formula to get people to put their hands in their pockets.”

Supporters fall into two categories: local or foreign individuals with a strong personal connection to a place, and local businesses – such as hotels, restaurants, and real estate consultants – who also have a vested interest in its ongoing health and vitality. “Go to

Lenz

joined

the

Mallorca

Preservation

Foundation steering committee in November 2019 and became its chairman in January 2020. “It’s a complicated year, but it’s also a year of change and I think it’s a change for good – especially here.” His career in real estate, as director of Engel & Völkers Mallorca Southwest, enables him to enter business circles, talk to leaders and “tell them about the opportunity to invest in the local environment through the Foundation.” He adds that all projects are vetted and a guaranteed

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“Everyone who has a property is very much aware of, and in love with, the environment.”

The real estate expert also reports a “huge shift” in the consciousness of people coming to buy a property here. Back in 2006/7, he says prospective purchasers were “highly speculative” about their investment, wanting to know what its value would be a year after purchase. “Now, people are thinking about how to enjoy the property; they value the personal asset more than the potential economic benefit. “They are also much more concerned about 100 per cent of the money raised goes directly

thickener in cooking and processed foods.

nature and want countryside around them,”

to them.

MAPF is financing the regeneration of two-

Hans Lenz adds. “Everyone who has a property

thousand non-productive carob trees here, in

is very much aware of, and in love with, the

He recalls his maternal grandfather feeding a

collaboration with APAEMA and Es Garrover

environment.”

five-person family from his sheep and produce

de Mallorca. The latter was founded by former

from his land. “The economic system worked

bank director Juana Verger, who gave up her

that way, but we moved away from it – which was

long career in banking to apply her education,

unhealthy for the community and the planet,”

passion, and vision to creating a range of carob-

Lenz says. “Now we’re realizing that we should

based products for human consumption. When

go back: the forests, farms, and fields need

back in production, these trees will generate an

attending. I have big faith in agriculture being

income for the farmers who have them.

one of the pillars for society and the economy.”

A recent generous donation

The second project

– MARE – is a

collaborative initiative by the non-profit Marilles

turbocharging two projects – one based on the

Foundation, working to make the Balearics a

ubiquitous carob tree. Carobs were traditionally

world-leading example of marine conservation.

abandoned or used as animal fodder. “But

The

researchers have found the carob has an

competition is designed to shine a light on the

incredible amount of nutrients, raising its value

Balearic Sea’s beauty and conservation work.

new

MARE

photography

and

video

How does Lenz reconcile his interest in the environment with his work in a sector that has been considered damaging? He acknowledges there were past mistakes but says the sector’s

That can only be good news for the Mallorca

unrecognizable now from the one he joined

Preservation Foundation’s goals – and for the

fifteen years ago; he believes there can and

island which sustained so many people, during

should be a balance between both things.

the lockdown, with images of its pristine beauty and the confirmation of its place as a safe haven

“If you analyse what companies such as E5 Living Mallorca are doing, they are absolutely in the market.”

serious

Its high levels of fibre, calcium, vitamins, and

consumption is at its lowest and using local

minerals have elevated the humble carob to

materials and artisans. Developers know they

superfood status. It’s a healthy substitute for

have an obligation towards the environment and

cacao in foods such as chocolate, ice cream,

supporting the local economy.” Meeting this is a

other desserts and baked goods, and locust

work in progress, but developers are learning to

bean gum from the carob is used as a natural

do things in a more considered way.

104

about

making

sure

that

energy

in terms of investment, security and health.

“It’s high levels of fibre, calcium, vitamins and minerals have elevated the humble carob to superfood status.”

105

GalleryRedMallorca

@galleryred_

Idyllic setting —

Situated in a discrete location in the

picture-postcard mountain village of Lauenen, a romantic mountain village which enjoys a truly idyllic setting. The old timber houses and the beautiful church are testimony to a strong awareness of tradition. The nature reserve on Lake Lauenen features impressive waterfalls, glaciers and upland moors.

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Secure luxury retreat —

Chalet Sophia is an

exceptional chalet and the epitome of 21st-century Alpineproperty design. This impressive residence (around 500m²) offers a secure luxury retreat only 7km from the chic yearround resort of Gstaad and combines the highest-quality traditional craftsmanship with the latest modern technology – for the ultimate in comfort, convenience, and efficiency.

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Breathtaking bespoke design

— E5 teamed up

with Switzerland’s renowned Matti Architektur team to create the breathtaking bespoke design, which complements the structure and its surroundings. Chalet Sophia has a traditional hand-carved façade, with balconies, created by highly skilled craftsmen. The experience of these traditional artisans is also evident in the quality of the oak-finish walls in the large principal rooms.

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State-of-the-art domotics

— This ‘smart home’

benefits from state-of-the-art ‘Digi Haus’ domotics. The system affords remote control of lighting, heating, electronics, security shutters etc, via an app. The owner can arrive at their warm and welcoming well-lit chalet, for immediate enjoyment. Energy-efficient vertical closed-loop geothermal technology – ground source heat pump – provides underfloor heating as well as hot water throughout each property. The chalet has six spacious bedrooms, and an 8-person lift (comfortably accommodating a wheelchair) to all floors.

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The ‘Grande Dame’ of Ski Resorts

— This

sophisticated ‘grande dame’ of ski resorts has enduring appeal for European royalty, celebrities, and international tycoons. Prince Charles and Princess Diana, Elizabeth Taylor, Madonna, Prince Rainier, Bernie Ecclestone, and George Soros are amongst those who have valued Gstaad’s sophisticated luxury, picture-postcard Alpine village scenery, and wealth of year-round outdoor pursuits. Beyond the winter-sports season, mountain-biking trails, tennis courts, swimming pools, polo club, and even a golf course are available. Hiking opportunities include the spectacular Glacier 3000 and Peak Walk suspension bridge. The Menuhin Festival, Hublot Polo Gold Cup, Swiss Open Tennis, and Hot Air Ballooning International Week are some of the annual cultural and social highlights. Free of traffic, the village is home to designer boutiques, including Louis Vuitton, Hermes, and Cartier. Gourmets will appreciate the gastronomic offering – including Michelin-starred restaurants.

Picturesque tranquility and privacy — Picturebook wooden chalet homes and glorious natural surroundings make the charming Alpine village of Lauenen the perfect choice for homeowners who desire tranquillity and privacy. Lauenensee lake, the impressive Geltenschuss waterfall, and Wildhorn glaciers are nearby – whilst the glamorous Gstaad, with everything it offers, is only around 7km away.

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Thank you to all the amazing professionals of the emergency services and the NHS, who saved my life. And to the family and friends who are always by my side.

Kevin Stevens, E5 President & Founder

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This, is Living.

TOWN

LIV

G · OL

LMA

E5 Living — Vol. II — Old Town Palma [English]

Articles inside

Where Art meets Architecture and Design

Gourmands welcome

Majorcan Culture

Camp de Mar

Palma History

John Taylor

Let me Entertain You

Es Verger

Huguet tiles

Villa San Lorenzo

Miquel Ramis

Shopping Guide

E5 Minerals & E5 Care

President’s note

Palma Market Report

E5 Living: UK & Europe