WHOA!!!!!!! Shape-Shifting Uno III Defies Scooter Stereotypes Segways and scooters definitely look fun to ride, but the vehicles — despite all manner of possible modifications — invariably carry a heavy nerd stigma. Benjamin Gulak and his BPG Motors company may challenge that stereotype, however, with the sleek and impressive Uno III. The adaptable vehicle actually morphs from an upright “Segway-like” mode into a horizontal, street-cycle position. Even better: it can apparently execute the conversion while in motion. Inspired by the overcrowded and polluted streets of China, Gulak actually embarked on the Uno project as a high school student. Now, his collapsible baby can effectively fit in an elevator, and — according to CNET — will eventually boast a top speed of “about 35 miles per hour and have a range of about 30 miles.” BPG intends to release the scooter-bike on a limited basis “in about a year,” so, if you want to look really awesome in a ‘Fast and Furious’ nerd sort of way, you’ll still have to wait a little while.
THIS LOOK LIKE MY NEW LA SPOT Ignazio and Maggio Cipriani, fourth generation of the famed Cipriani family internationally renowned for its restaurants, landmarked banquet spaces, clubs, and residences, have announced the debut of Mr. C, a chic new signature hotel brand opening its first property in Beverly Hlls this April. Mr. C is designed to be “a modern version of old-world simplicity and stylish European glamour, providing today’s traveler with a comfortable, elegant and effortless experience blending contemporary amenities with discreet, personalized service.” The 138-room property will feature 12 Signature Suites and Classic Suites, alongside spacious guest rooms ranging from 365–800 square feet, each with a private balcony and many with panoramic views of Beverly Hills and Los Angeles. The interior designaims to be “rich and welcoming” with dark hardwood floors, burgundy and gray color palettes, and crisp white accents. Vintage black and white photographs from films like La Dolce Vita bring iconic and historic cultural moments to life on the walls, and well-appointed bathrooms feature teak flooring,marble accents, and luxe amenities.Additionally, the property will feature five multi-level, residential-sized bungalows averaging approximately 3,000 square feet, each with a private garden, gourmet kitchen, plunge pool and views of Beverly Hills. Renowned Californian architect Ray Kappe designed the bungalows, which will feature all the Mr. C amenities including spa treatments, housekeeping, and room service from the signature Mr. C restaurant. The restaurant will welcome guests and Angelenos alike with a menu featuring classics from Cipriani’s famed kitchens alongside grilled specialties and pizzas from morning to night. The restaurant will offer indoor and outdoor seating, a separate entrance for non-hotel guests, and two private rooms for more intimate occasions. The hotel will also feature an outdoor swimming pool for hotel guests only and an indoor/outdoor private event space boasting 360-degree panoramic city views from the 12th floor of the hotel, with a private exterior glass elevator. Rates will run from $429 for a Deluxe City View room to $2,009 for a Specialty Suite.
GOTTA HAVE A HOT RAIN COAT IN YOUR COLLECTION London store b Store worked with Baracuta on a mini capsule collection for Spring/Summer 2011, consisting of three jackets. Essentially they remix three Baracuta classics, including the original G3 1950s shape Harrington jacket, and the 1966 Ramsey raincoat originally designed for the triumphant 1966 England World Cup team. The store has added interesting new fabrics to these classics, giving them a more modern appeal.
IM ON THESE Lanvin presents a nice modern interpretation of the Wingtip shoe as part of their Spring/Summer 2011 Collection. The shoes come with black upper and whitened toe cap. Another interesting detail is the black stripe outer sole. The shoe is already in stock at colette (storeguide).
“A ship is safe in harbor, but that’s not what ships are for.” -William Shedd
SUPER SUPER THIN Sony Ericsson Xperia Arc Sony Ericsson Xperia Arc($TBA). This slim, ergonomically-shaped phone sports an extra-wide 4.2-inch multi-touch Reality Display with Mobile Bravia Engine, an 8.1-megapixel camera with Sony Exmor R sensor with f/2.4 lens and HD video recording capability, in addition to all the standard apps and web stuff.
HOT!!!!! Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin Air The Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin Air($TBA), which also has a dock for direct connection, sports an audiophile-quality Digital to Analog Converter (DAC), special sound dispersion features, and is said to produce pretty amazing room-filling sound that is more natural than other iSpeakers.