< Previous68 | VON POLL IMMOBILIEN Welcome to a brief foray into the world of architecturally impressive pools. These masterpieces of design art are much more than water basins – they embody the fusion of aesthetics and function at the highest level and make a jump into the cool water a very special experience. Discover with us two spectacular pools in Europe that inspire and delight with their construction, design and surroundings. SPECTACULAR POOLS DIVE IN WITH A WOW FACTOR Architecture © Photo by Lachlan Dempsey on UnsplashVON POLL REAL ESTATE | 69 The exceptional Piscinas de Marés pool complex on the Atlantic coast was designed by Álvaro Siza Vieira, who is one of the most important contemporary European ar- chitects and was awarded the Golden Lion in 2012 by the Venice Biennale of Architecture for his life's work. The Portuguese architect, who was 26 years young when he was given the commission, had the archaic-brutal- ist structure embedded in the rocky landscape along the coast of Leça da Palmeira in Portugal. The ter- race-shaped pools made of exposed concrete enable visitors to swim in the Atlantic water protected from the wild surf, crowned by a breathtaking view of the open sea. of the Thames, the London Eye and the Houses of Parliament and move weight- lessly over the streets of the London dis- trict of Nine Elms, while pedestrians can admire them from the ground as if they were in an aquarium. The construction is the work of architects Arup Associates, engineers Eckersley O’Callaghan and aquarium designer Reynolds. As a mul- tinational company, Arup Associates is entrusted with complex architectural challenges – one of its most famous pro- jects is the Sydney Opera House. The Height of Design Art: The floating Sky Pool in London Surrounded by the Atlantic: Beach Pool in Leça da Palmeira, Portugal The clever integration in the natural environment gives the pool complex an incomparable atmosphere. London's Sky Pool is one of the most spectacular swimming pools in the world. The 25 m length of the free-floating, transparent sky pool joins two residential buildings in the sophisticated London Embassy Gardens development – about 35 m above the ground! Here, swimmers can enjoy a view 70 | VON POLL IMMOBILIENVON POLL REAL ESTATE | 71 Hermès THE SUCCESS STORY OF HERMÈS CRAFTSMAN- SHIP PAR EXCELLENCE In the world of luxury fashion there are brands that stand out well beyond the runway. Without a doubt, Hermès is one of these brands and stands for tradition, craftsmanship and timeless elegance like hardly any other. The success story of the renowned French fashion house started in 1837 – and has lost nothing of its fascination to this day. The Hermès store in Amsterdam is located in the premises of the “Crystal Houses”. T he story of Hermès began in the 19th century when Thierry Hermès opened a saddlery in Rue Basse du Rempart, Paris, in 1837, which specialised in making high-quality harness- es. In a time when horses and carriages were the main means of transport, the quality of the harnesses was very important. Thanks to his love for detail and his perfectionism, Thierry Hermès was very well regarded, especially by the aspiring elite. His simple, elegant and tough designs brought the brand an award at the Paris World Exposition in 1867. In 1880, his son Charles-Émile moved the workshop to Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré and opened a shop there that made a name for itself all over Eu- rope with its exquisite creations. About 40 years later, the company started along the path of innovation under the leadership of Charles-Émile's son Émile and started to offer accessories – from harnesses and saddles to leather goods. On a trip to Canada, Émile Hermès 72 | VON POLL IMMOBILIEN Hermès came across a fascinating opening and closing system, what we now commonly know as a zip. Following the conclusion of an exclusive contract, the closing sys- tem was integrated in countless travel bags. Under the leadership of Émile Hermès, the company expanded both geograph- ically and in terms of its product range. The first garment for men, a golf jack- et, was made in 1925. Shortly after this, jewellery, watches and other accesso- ries were added, before the famous silk square was launched in 1937 followed by the Hermès tie range eight years lat- er. This latter catered for the strong de- mand from men who were refused ac- cess to the casino without a tie. Another milestone was marked by a photo of Grace Kelly with a newly designed handbag from Hermès which went around the world in 1956 – this is how the famous Kelly Bag got its name. Just under 30 years later, after a chance meeting between Jean-Louis Dumas and the artiste Jane Birkin in 1984, this was followed by the Birkin Bag. Every Hermès saddle is made by hand in the classic manufacturing company. The craftsmen in the Parisian atelier spend- ing take 25 - 35 hours for each saddle. Hermès has represented the highest standards of craftsmanship since 1837. i The Iconic Silk Scarf Collection The history of Hermès silk scarves started in 1937: the world-famous silk square was born with “Jeu des omnibus et dames blanches” – it was the first in a long series. The silk scarves are famous for their unusual prints and designs. The manufacture of every single scarf is a highly skilled craft, because several screen printing passes are needed to create the brilliant colours and fine details. The Hermès silk scarves are so special because they are extremely versatile. They can be worn around the neck, as a hair accessory, around a handbag handle or as a belt. Hermès silk scarves have acquired cult status over the years and have become true collectors’ pieces.VON POLL REAL ESTATE | 73 Hermès Since then, the Hermès range has been constantly expanded and now com- prises a variety of product ranges – the finest leather goods, silk and cashmere scarves, ties, shoes, watches, perfume, gloves and prêt-à-porter collections for women and men, as well as stationery, jewellery and interiors. It is also remarkable that Hermès has remained a family company to this day. The Hermès family has passed on con- trol of the company from generation to generation and has always preserved the values and tradition of the brand. This commitment to continuity and ex- cellence is reflected in every facet of the company, which not without reason has developed into a global luxury empo- i The Kelly Bag – a tribute to the Princess of Monaco The Kelly Bag is one of the most famous handbags in the world and a timeless symbol of luxury and elegance. Designed by Robert Dumas in the 1930s, the bag became world famous in 1956 thanks to a photo of Grace Kelly in which she was carrying the bag. To honour the Princess, the bag was given the name Kelly.74 | VON POLL IMMOBILIEN rium with boutiques all over the world. Hermès remains a synonym for luxury and style – a brand that honours the past while looking to the future. In a consumer world often character- ised by fast trends and mass production, the history of Hermès reminds us that true elegance and quality are timeless. Hermès is not only a fashion house, but also a heritage that celebrates the essence of craftsmanship and timeless beauty – a history that will continue to capture the hearts of fashion enthusiasts all over the world. A sight for sore eyes: the window of the Hermès Store in Vienna. i L’École Hermès des Savoir-faire The Hermès company sets great store by passing on and constantly improving its exceptional craftsmanship. Since 2021, the École Hermès des Savoir-faire, recognised by the French Ministry of Education, has been offering professional training to become a state-recognised leather craftsman (with a CAP-Maroquinerie diploma). HermèsThe sculptural, curved staircase is the heart of the store.76 | VON POLL IMMOBILIEN © Photo by Zhao Yangyang on Unsplash Solid wood, elegant linen and other natural materials in neutral colours are now presented in a new, modern design. THE NATURAL LOOK BEAUTIFUL AND STYLISH BY NATUREVON POLL REAL ESTATE | 77 Home ideas “Sharmila” jute carpet by westwing.de, approx. €29.99 “Olivia” coffee table by westwing.de, approx. €569 “Aristide” chair by Sweetpea & Willow from Pressloft, approx. €1,389 “Latona” vase by westwing.de, approx. €55 “Felizia” pendant light by Bloomingville, approx. €219 “Femme Face” picture by westwing.de, approx. €49.99 “Inverness, bench” by Rowico Home, Price on request “Timmi” basket by Bloomingville, approx. €99.90 “Mirari” table runner by Kave Home, approx. €32.99Next >