Author: Michelle Hadjisavas

Article originally featured in Elite Traveler.

In partnership with RLH Properties, owners can now completely customize their private residences.

It feels like every day brings more news of another leader in luxury hospitality unveiling branded residences in yet another corner of the world – and that’s no exaggeration. A 2023 report by Knight Frank projected a 12% growth in the branded residences market by 2026, and while we haven’t run the numbers ourselves, considering the seemingly endless parade of new developments rising in mega-cities, it’s easy to believe.

Branded residences are appealing for the security and service of a trusted hospitality name, but they often lack true personalization. That’s about to change. One&Only Resorts, in partnership with RLH Properties, now offers owners the chance to design custom homes at its ultra-luxurious Mandarina resort on Mexico’s Pacific Coast.

One&Only Mandarina already features an exclusive collection of four- to 10-bedroom private residences, priced between $6m and $18.5m. Just like the pictured completed residences at Mandarina, designed by architect Rick Joy, these properties already allow for a choice of curated or bespoke furnishing options. This new initiative, however, takes customization to the next level, enabling owners to fully design their residences before construction even begins.

There are 10 lots available, situated on Mandarina’s famed mountaintops. Just moments from the resort, these lots offer breathtaking vistas: the Pacific Ocean’s endless blue, the equestrian and golf landscapes of The Flatlands, and the lush Sierra Madre Occidental cliffs. Lot sizes range from 9,514 to 13,670 sq ft, with prices starting at $2.85m.

Future owners will collaborate directly with RLH Properties and One&Only, working alongside top architects and designers to create homes that reflect their tastes while harmonizing with Mandarina’s overall aesthetic. Custom features, such as the addition of private gyms or workspaces, can be incorporated to meet any desire.

“We are thrilled to offer buyers the option to build their dream home at Mandarina,” said Kappner Clark, executive vice president of sales and marketing at RLH Properties. “While we’ve always welcomed customizations for our One&Only Mandarina Private Homes, this marks the first time residents can collaborate with leading design and architecture firms, alongside One&Only and RLH Properties, to create a residence from start to finish. We’re excited to provide this new level of personalization at such an incredible destination.”

Ownership at Mandarina comes with more than just a bespoke home. Residents gain access to the resort’s world-class amenities, including fine dining, beach clubs, spas, water sports, and the Mandarina Polo & Equestrian Club with its state-of-the-art polo grounds, stables, and riding trails. Next year, the Mandarina Golf Club will debut a Greg Norman-designed 10-hole short course, inspired by some of the world’s most iconic courses.

Article originally featured in Forbes.

Known for their luxury resorts, the brand is allowing buyers at One&Only Mandarina to build their dream home from the ground up.

One&Only is known for their ultra-luxurious resorts in bucket list destinations such as Dubai, Cape Town and Malaysia. Now, the brand is offering its first fully customizable homes that buyers can build from the ground up alongside the talented design team behind the memorable One&Only aesthetic.

Located at One&Only Mandarina—the iconic site developed by RLH Properties—the homes are tucked away on the mountaintops of Riviera Nayarit on Mexico’s Pacific Coast. Mandarina currently offers Villas and Estate Villas designed by Rick Joy, the architect behind the famous Amangiri hotel, where residents can choose from three select furnishing packages and add-ons to their home, such as a home gym. Buyers customizing their own homes can draw inspiration from the existing floor plans while working more closely with design teams to craft their dream property.

“At RLH Properties, we are always looking for ways to improve our offering to the market. Through research and conversations with clients, we recognized a desire for homeowners to be more involved in the design process of their homes,” explained Kappner Clark, Executive VP of Marketing and Sales at RLH Properties. “While the custom homes will continue to respect the original design integrity that characterizes One&Only Mandarina Private Homes, this new opportunity allows homeowners to personalize the home according to their family’s needs and wants.”

The homeowners begin by selecting which lot best fits their family’s needs and wants, both in terms of size and ocean views. From there, the teams work hand in hand with the customer to design the home according to their requirements, all while respecting the current look and feel of One&Only Mandarina Private Homes to maintain the design integrity of the community.

Depending on the level of customization, the design process can take anywhere from a few months to a year. Lot pricing starts at $2.85 million, however pricing for the homes will vary depending on the design.

The homes are truly at one with nature, located in a tropical jungle paradise; preservation is extremely important to the One&Only brand. Jonathan Tomlinson, Senior Vice President of Private Homes & Branded Residences at Kerzner International says that there was a focus on intelligent and resource-efficient architecture as well as sustainable practices to blend with the nature and honor the resort’s commitment to local communities.

“Botany experts were consulted throughout the design and construction process to preserve the land as well respect the historic and ecological significance of the natural habitat. As resort guests and homeowners become immersed in the surrounding nature, from the ocean to volcanic mountains, these unspoiled vistas are framed against contemporary architecture designed to embrace the dramatic setting, rather than reshape it,” he explained. “Open structures capture natural light, filtered through the towering trees, while traditional Mexican design elements are reimagined, featuring modern, luxury design. Earthen walls emerge from the ground with low visual impact, inspired by the historic buildings once constructed on the site by the Cora, an indigenous settlement in the Western Central Mexico, who covered their buildings in earthen plaster.”

Each home is designed specifically for its location to offer panoramic views of the unspoiled nature surrounds, from jungle to ocean, while maintaining ultimate privacy. Floor-to-ceiling glass walls, custom woodwork, warm metals and red clays are used throughout to pay homage to nature while sticking to One&Only’s traditional design style.

THE 10-HOLE COURSE INSPIRED BY ICONIC HOLES AROUND THE WORLD IS EXPECTED TO OPEN IN 2025

Mandarina, the luxury resort and residential destination developed by RLH Properties on Mexico’s Pacific Coast, today announced the plans for a new golf course designed by Greg Norman, a world-renowned golfer and golf course designer. As part of the extensive Mandarina Experiences program, which offers concierge-style services and excursions to residents and guests, the golf club will feature a 10-hole short course, taking inspiration from iconic holes at famous courses around the world, such as Augusta National, Pebble Beach, Pine Valley and Royal Melbourne. The course will provide a new facet of leisure and entertainment at Mandarina and another unique amenity in The Flatlands, the sprawling green landscape between the property’s mountain peaks. Completion of the new golf course is slated for 2025.

“In a continuation of our efforts to give visitors and residents the best experience possible, we are thrilled to announce the upcoming golf course at Mandarina,” said Luis Durán, Chief Executive Officer at RLH Properties. “The expert design and unique concept of this golf course adds another layer of luxury, exclusivity and adventure to the esteemed resort destination, and we can’t wait for residents and guests at One&Only Mandarina and the future Rosewood Mandarina to enjoy this new amenity.”

Nestled just east of the Pacific Ocean’s shoreline, select holes will overlook the Sierra del Vallejo mountain range, and the existing Mandarina Polo & Equestrian Club, an amenity encompassing over 10-acres in The Flatlands. Designed to be enjoyable for families of all ages but challenging enough for avid golfers, the new golf course will further solidify Mandarina as a top destination for luxury experiences. Additionally, post round, golfers playing the new course will have the opportunity to catch a sunset polo match and dine under the stars at Chukker, the Argentine asado grill located in the fields of the Mandarina Polo & Equestrian Club.

“I am honored to be working yet again with RLH Properties on this incredible property in Mexico,” said Greg Norman, CEO of Greg Norman Golf Course Design. “The course at Mandarina will be unlike any other. Each hole is an inspiration from some of the most iconic and classic courses  from around the world, so playing it will produce a welcome sense of familiarity. We’re excited to provide golfers of all ages and abilities with an unforgettable experience at each hole.”

Recognized as the premier signature golf course design firm in the world, Greg Norman Golf Course Design (GNGCD) has envisioned over 120 courses across 34 countries and six continents, including El Camaleón at Mayakoba, another RLH Properties development in Riviera Maya, Mexico. The firm is also responsible for The Bluffs Ho Tram Strip in Vietnam, The Oaks Course at TPC San Antonio, and Real El Prat Golf Club in Barcelona.

In addition to the new golf club, Mandarina is home to the One&Only Mandarina hotel and a collection of 55 branded residences, One&Only Mandarina Private Homes, the first of residences from the brand in the Western Hemisphere. New hotel and residential concepts from the esteemed Rosewood Hotel Group are also in the pipeline at the property. Residents at One&Only Mandarina Private Homes and Rosewood Residences Mandarina will get priority access to reservations at the new course, as well as special rates on the green fees and a separate membership opportunity to the golf club as part of Club Mandarina, an amenity only offered to homeowners. Guests at One&Only Mandarina, the 105-villa luxury hotel, and the highly anticipated Rosewood Mandarina, a forthcoming 140-key luxury hotel, will also have access to the golf course and all resort-wide amenities.

A SOULFUL TRADITION COMES TO LIFE IN MEXICO’S RIVIERA NAYARIT

Nestled amidst the scenic beauty of Mandarina, the mystical allure of Day of the Dead was celebrated in a vibrant evening at El Huerto. The event was a mesmerizing journey into the pre-Hispanic belief system, delving into the sacred traditions and customs that honor departed souls.

WHAT IS DAY OF THE DEAD?

The Day of the Dead, known as “Día de Muertos” in Spanish, is a Mexican holiday that celebrates the lives of departed loved ones. It’s a time when families come together to remember and honor those who have passed away, believing that during this period, the spirits of the deceased return to visit the living.

Attendees at El Huerto’s festive event were immersed in the profound essence of this ancient tradition, guided through the intricate steps that souls undertake before their final destination, Mictlán—the revered Place of eternal rest. Exploring the depths of this belief, the event illuminated the significance behind the elaborate altars meticulously crafted by living relatives each year to commemorate their departed loved ones.

UNVEILING THE SYMBOLISM: CREATION OF ALTARS

One of the focal points of the evening was the exploration of the meaning and creation of intricately adorned altars. Guests were captivated as they learned about the symbolism embedded in each element of these reverential tributes. Every offering, from marigolds to favorite foods and beverages, holds a symbolic meaning, honoring the memories of the departed.

WITNESSING THE RHYTHMS OF TRADITION: THEMATIC PRE-HISPANIC DANCE

The evening came alive with the entrancing display of a thematic pre-Hispanic dance. Enchanting rhythms and graceful movements echoed the ancient rituals, transporting attendees to a time where tradition and spirituality intertwined seamlessly.

EMBRACING TRADITION AMIDST NATURE AT EL HUERTO

El Huerto, situated within the organic farm at Mandarina, served as the perfect backdrop for this soulful celebration. With its rustic charm and serene ambiance, it provided an intimate setting for guests to immerse themselves in the cultural richness of the Day of the Dead festivities. A curated menu offered further immersion into Mexican culture, highlighted by fresh, local ingredients sourced directly from El Huerto’s lush, seasonal garden.

PRESERVING HERITAGE: MANDARINA’S COMMITMENT TO CULTURE

The event at El Huerto stood as a testament to the destination’s dedication to preserving and sharing the rich tapestry of Mexican culture. It was an evening that left a lasting impression, offering attendees a deeper understanding and appreciation for the enduring legacy of the Day of the Dead tradition.

The evening of immersive, cultural experience that intertwined history, spirituality and celebration at El Huerto showcases the style of events curated for guests and residents at Mandarina. View the upcoming events schedule while learning about accommodations offered at One&Only Mandarina for your next trip to Riviera Nayarit.

Article originally appeared in San Francisco Chronicle. 

Mandarina has partnered with Sancus Foundation and RLH Properties to participate in “La Suma de Todos” (The Sum of All), a charitable initiative in Mexico that focuses on advancing children education and environmental enhancements.

Commencing in 2020 and growing quickly each year, La Suma de Todos has doubled the number of programs supported through the fund’s charitable contributions. Through the support of RLH Properties’ award-winning hotels at Mandarina and Mayakoba, including One&Only Mandarina, Andaz Mayakoba, Banyan Tree Mayakoba, Fairmont Mayakoba and Rosewood Mayakoba, La Suma de Todos has achieved tremendous growth that is further supported by guest donations generously pledged at US$1 per night of stay and matched 100% by RLH Properties and 20% by Sancus Capital Partners.

During the 2022–2023 school year, La Suma de Todos donated $1,982,000 pesos to four communities surrounding Mandarina, which went towards attending infrastructural needs, new tablets and laptop equipment, as well as digital educational program licenses and internet services. This result is part of an ongoing, long-term collaboration with local communities to ensure children have access to quality education through La Suma de Todos.

Read more about La Suma de Todos in the Annual Impact Report 2022.

Article originally appeared in The New York Times.

Plenty of luxury housing developments are built around glamorous perks: a manicured 18-hole golf course, a private beach club, even an exclusive on-site restaurant crowned with Michelin stars. Tucked in the coastal jungle of Western Mexico comes yet another hyper-luxurious real estate offering, this one banking on a novel perk: a pony named Karen.

Karen and 48 of her equine colleagues make up the centerpiece of Mandarina, a billion-dollar residential resort gamble currently being carved into a cliffside overlooking the Pacific Ocean in Riviera Nayarit, Mexico. Its Mexico-based developer is betting that the palatial, celebrity-architect-designed stables erected at its heart — where the skills of two polo pros and their herd of athletic beasts are available to all residents — will help put this luxury outpost rising from the jungle on the It-people map.

“With the ultraluxury market, this could be their fifth, six, seventh, 10th home — and it is touches that make the difference,” said Borja Escalada, the chief executive officer of the company developing the property, RLH Properties, which is banking on Karen the pony and her friends being that extra touch. “This is creating something. You could be walking the sea, or even trying to surf the waves, and suddenly you go back to the polo facilities and you’re in a different place.”

The resort’s 636 acres include a coastline that remains relatively untrammeled compared to its neighbor, Puerto Vallarta. Construction began in 2018. Phase One was a hyper-luxury hotel operated by One&Only, an international hotelier with retreats from Rwanda to Malaysia, and is now complete: 105 stand-alone bungalows, improbably hewed and hacked among the breadnut trees and bromeliads. Each comes with a butler and goes for between $1,300 and $31,000 a night for a suite. (The tennis star Maria Sharapova held a recent birthday bash in the top suite, her bill compliments of the hotel, according to management.)

Austere to the point of monastic, the cabanas are the model for Phase Two, One&Only Mandarina Private Homes, which has recently broken ground.

Residences, offered for $5.3 million and up — very up — will also be operated by the hotel franchise, whose butlers will be on hand to remove wayward scorpions and other less exotic tasks as needed. Twenty-three of an available 55 homes have been sold so far, some on homesites that appear little more than sheer drops into the sea. These villas will be built on stilts, a complex process with the goal of disturbing as little forest as possible; their glass fronts and infinity pools look into, rather than over, the canopy.

They are the handiwork of the architect Rick Joy, who aimed to create the same seamless blend into nature as he did with another hotel project, the celebrated Amangiri resort, which appears to fade into the rocks of Canyon Point, Utah. Surrounding the semi-arboreal casitas are winding strangler figs, a type of parasitic vine that wraps itself around a tree; the resultant structure is stunning — even as it consumes its host.

Article originally appeared on Mansion Global.

A crop of new buildings, in a perennial race for more enticing amenities, are tending to the mental and spiritual health of their wealthy residents.

Luxury concierges, expected to go to the ends of the Earth to satisfy residents, may have to tread even further in their latest role.

A new crop of luxury buildings looking for more creative ways to stand out and attract wellness-focused buyers is going beyond, the flashy fitness centers and spas to add meditation gardens, cold plunges or ice baths—and, yes, spiritual concierges, who connect residents with healers, therapists and a bevy of other experts to help with mental and emotional health.

One&Only Mandarina Private Homes, in Mexico’s Riviera Nayarit, also offers spiritual aid—a shaman to be exact who leads a traditional Mexican sage ceremony for interested buyers to bless their new homes.

Danielle Lepe, a San Francisco resident who works at Facebook, for one, bought a six-bedroom residence at the property with her husband and jumped at the chance. “I want any home of mine to have good energy, and I believed that a shaman could bring that in,” she said.

Ms. Lepe and her husband invited several friends to join them for the auspicious day, which she said saw clusters of hundreds of dragonflies circling the sky. The shaman saged the property inside and out, she said, and also blessed their expecting friend. “I am not at all a hippie-dippy type, and neither are our friends, but our spirits and souls felt nourished,” she said. “We felt an incredible sense of peace and that everything would be O.K.”

The development’s overall wellness amenities were a big reason why the property appealed to her and her husband, said Lepe. “It has the best breathwork and fitness classes that we fully take advantage of, but the shaman is another level altogether,” she said.

Article originally appeared on Forbes Mexico.

The Argentine culinary tradition is honestly recreated among the wonderful landscape of Mandarina Resort & Residences

The aromas and flavors faithfully evoke the feel of Argentine fields. The dishes at Chukker are brought to life through techniques that instill the tradition of barbecue, including respect for fire and patience. This experience takes place outdoors on the fields of Mandarina Resort & Residences in Riviera Nayarit.

Gastronomy is deeply integrated into the natural landscape, which is formed by majestic mountains in the distance, lush slopes and open plains that are similar to the territory that inspires it. A few meters away is the organic garden, where fresh ingredients featured in the restaurant’s curated dishes are harvested.

“We focus on taking care of the authenticity of the recipes. We work with highly selected meats from free-range cattle,” says Giovanni Balloni, executive chef of Club Mandarina in Riviera Nayarit from RLH Properties. He, like the entire Chukker kitchen team, learned the secrets of maintaining the juiciness of the protein and the endearing value of Argentine cuisine from the barbecue master Martín Gomez Maciel.

“What Martín shared with us was having tact with the product and respecting its nature. That is why we cook in a very rudimentary way, avoiding the use of salt during cooking. Simplicity is best, although that doesn’t mean it’s easy”, emphasizes Balloni and explains that the selection of firewood was vital: “we only use two types of wood that are found in the Sierras that surrounds Mandarina and are sustainable”.

Thus, at Chukker, you can cook a whole rack of ribs on the cross or on the grill for a feast of at least 15 diners in the fullness of the field. Plus, a splendid Bife de Chorizo and a Grilled Pork Matambre. Of course, the menu includes top-quality sausages, such as pork chorizo, black pudding and gizzard.

Balloni reveals that in the near future, the Chukker team plans to incorporate other proteins from animals raised in the vicinity of Mandarina such as organic duck, quail and chicken. This is part of the ‘Farm to Table’ philosophy that governs their work.

Understanding the embers and the flow of the wind, calculating cooking times and being happy with the final result was part of the lesson for Martín, a passionate cook from the Argentine pampas, the land where he was born. That sense of belonging and celebration echoes through the atmosphere and through the music.

Poetry immersed in El Chamamé, Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, and singing by José Larralde is part of the Chukker experience after a friendly game of polo or a walk through the stables. There, in the shade of a large tree surrounded by green grass, emotions come together when tasting an authentic Argentine barbecue paired with good wine from the Southern Cone or a fun house cocktail with Mexican touches. This, while the sunset tints the horizon.