iStar Residential and Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty hosted a fabulous opening preview event at the Mandarin Oriental Residences Atlanta on Thursday, November 1. The turnout of top Atlanta real estate agents and the “passport” inspired viewing contributed to the phenomenal success of the evening.
Guests were greeted by impeccably dressed and polite staff members of the Mandarin Oriental Atlanta. Fresh towels and signature cocktails were offered while visitors received their passports and name badges. These passports were stamped each time you progressed to a new viewing area on your tour, for a total of 4 Mandarin Chinese characters.
The first room, Taipan, overlooked the lovely English garden and was detailed with plush carpets, chic, high-backed seating, leather chairs, and glass doors that lead into the garden terrace. Groups gathered and enjoyed drinks, hor d’oeuvres, the soft rhythmic stylings of the Anton Harris Jazz Group, and the sophisticated entertainment provided by the Atlanta Chinese Dance Company, who danced outside but could be viewed through the large picture window.
Once groups were assembled, they were whisked to the 42nd floor where they viewed units 42A and 42B. John Oetgen designed unit 42B, a 1/2 floor home located above Mandarin Oriental Hotel. Perfect for the buyer wanting the utmost in luxury, privacy and security. The rooms were elegant and inviting with high ceilings detailed with rich crown molding. The kitchen has a touch of whimsy with its black and white marble checkerboard floor, designer lighting, and black moldings. There are windows on all three sides and plenty of counter space with an island and long peninsula.
The second and only other unit on the 42nd floor was designed by Mimi Williams and is an art collector’s dream. The central hallway offers plenty of wall space to hang large and prominent works of art. The architectural details surrounding the art only further compliment the beauty of the space and the artwork. This central hallway spills into the living room which has a dramatic view of city lights. This area features a double-sided fireplace, a reading nook on one side and a living room area on the other, a wet bar with ample wine storage, and access to the terrace. The terrace boasts one of the best views in Atlanta with foreground lights from Buckhead and background lights of Atlanta’s stunning downtown skyline. This view will put other views to shame and wow all your guests! In addition to the breathtaking view, the terrace is spacious and has room for seating and a cocktail table. The design of the building maximizes the view and gives homeowner’s an almost 180 degrees. The eat-in kitchen has room for a large dining table and breakfast bar seating. Top of the line appliances and granite are just a few of the beautiful finishes in this space. The master bedroom in this unit is spacious and has separate his and hers bathrooms, as well as closets.
The next stop on our “passport” tour was on the 41st floor in the Vermilon unit. The newly designed two-bedroom model home was designed by Johnna Barrett of Barrett Design. This model features serene neutrals and shimmering wall surfaces that form an elegant backdrop for the blending of classic lines and modern sensibilities. The dining room features a circular table and beautiful orb-style chandelier that added a modern feel. The juxtaposition of the modern lighting and the traditional moldings created a cohesive design thesis despite their opposing nature. Vermilion, a deep red pigment and regarded as the color of life and eternity by Chinese Taoists, appears throughout the space adding intensity and excitement to this dramatic and luxurious design.
After completing the tour of the three models, guests descended the elevators to the spa and fitness area where they were given an overview of the spa offerings for residents and how each service is specifically tailored for each resident. The Mandarin Oriental wants residents to feel at home in the spa, even though it is open to the public. Private elevators from the residences are provided to achieve this separation. The fitness center has professional trainers and even a dietician to provide residents with everything they need. Fitness equipment with Ferarri leather and a yoga studio are just a few of the luxuries the Mandarin Oriental offers.
Visitors then returned to the Taipan lounge before heading over to Del Frisco’s as their final destination and final stamp of their passport. This swanky restaurant underwent a $4 million renovation from the previous restaurant and is a casual steakhouse featuring a variety of menu options including prime aged steaks, flatbread pizzas, sandwiches, and salads. Guests were served Ahi tuna tacos, buffalo chicken soufflés with blue cheese, lettuce wraps with beef tenderloin, flat bread pizzas, cheese poppers, and beef tenderloin sliders with horseradish sauce. Dessert included “Adult Milkshakes,” coconut cream pie and more. Signature cocktails were served as well as a full bar.
Mike Bugg and Anne Schwall of the Skyrise Group at Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty thanked guests for coming. Anne Spoke on behalf of New York based iStar Residential, who could not attend due to travel issues regarding Hurricane Sandy. The Mandarin Oriental’s General Manager, Robert Low, who has over 25 years of hospitality experience , including 13 years with Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group, spoke about the service and luxury that can be expected from a hotel like the Mandarin Oriental. And lastly, Robert A. Tretsch III, AIA, LEED AP, from Harrison Design Associates spoke about the newly designed three bedroom unit. Harrison Design created all the original units, and he was happy to return to the project to create a three bedroom layout with a more open feel. The plans were presented on boards for guest to peruse at their leisure. The evening ended with a drawing for those who had completed the tour and received all four stamps on their passport. An evening at the Mandarin Oriental and a couple’s spa package were given away to the delight of guests.
Overall, the preview was an outstanding success, and we thank iStar Residential and Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty for working together to create such a successful night. We know that this partnership will lead to more successes with the continued sales of residences in this truly stunning building.