THE RESIDENCES REPORT: April Showers Bring Spa Hours

April has been a whirlwind in the world of branded residences. Between spa unveilings, designer debuts, and Michelin-worthy dining concepts, even we’re struggling to keep up. That’s why we’re launching The Branded Residences Report: your monthly cheat sheet to who’s doing what (and where) in this fast-moving market. Consider this your all-access pass to the projects, partnerships, and amenities worth knowing.
Without further ado, let’s dive into this month’s highlights, starting with a legendary New York icon that’s just raised the bar for residential wellness…

The Waldorf Astoria New York has re-emerged from its grand transformation with a showstopping revival of its Guerlain Wellness Spa – a 30,000-square-foot sanctuary where even the massages have a pedigree. Residents can now indulge in the “Spirit of Achievement” treatment (inspired by the hotel’s iconic Park Avenue statue, because nothing says relaxation like channeling the ambition of a gilded-age tycoon) or surrender to the “Rhythm of Wellness,” where live piano melodies sync with rejuvenating therapies. Proof that luxury and harmony go hand in hand. And let’s talk about the 372 private residences, where Jean-Louis Deniot’s interiors play backdrop to 50,000 square feet of amenities, because why settle for just a 25-meter infinity pool when you can also have Lex Yard’s culinary concepts, a signature restaurant from Chef Michael Anthony, and cocktails crafted by Jeff Bell, the man who turned mixology into an art form? Oh, and the art collection, curated by Simon de Pury, ensures that even the walls have better taste than most of us.

Meanwhile, in Miami’s Brickell neighborhood, ORA by Casa Tua is proving that European elegance and coastal ease can, in fact, share a cocktail (or three). Designed by m2atelier, the residences are bathed in natural light and organic textures, think linen-draped serenity meets Mediterranean warmth. But the real star? The culinary program, featuring Terra, a 24-hour artisanal market (because midnight cravings should be elevated), and Vento, a rooftop lounge where the views of Biscayne Bay are almost as intoxicating as the drinks.

Not to be outdone, The St. Regis Residences Papagayo is setting a new standard for Pura Vida luxury, thanks to a partnership with Talentchef’s Antonio de Juan. The Volcano Club will dish out seasonally inspired menus, while The Cliff blends Japanese precision with Costa Rican flavors, because if your dinner doesn’t come with a side of ocean breeze, did you even eat? Developer Alberto Halabe of Solana calls it a “celebration of destination dining,” and we call it reason enough to book a one-way ticket.

For those who prefer their luxury with a side of culture, Mandarin Oriental Residences Saadiyat Cultural District has unveiled its final collection of homes, where Bjarke Ingels Group’s architectural mastery meets Lillian Wu Studio’s interiors. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame the Zayed National Museum, while amenities like a private cinema and the beloved Mandarin Oriental Cake Shop ensure that residents never have to choose between high art and high tea.

And because fashion should never be confined to a closet, ETRO is planting its paisley flag in Phuket with Etro Residences, the brand’s first Southeast Asian residential venture. Developed by Amal Development as part of their Gardens of Eden complex, the project features just eight exclusive units, ranging from three-bedroom apartments to duplexes, each dripping in the brand’s signature patterns thanks to design whisperers, The One Atelier and custom furnishings from theETRO Home Collection, Residents will also enjoy fashion-forward wellness programs and private brand experiences, because CEO Fabrizio Cardinali is on a mission to make ETRO a lifestyle, not just a label. (With Etro Residences Istanbul already a success, we’re betting this is just the beginning.)

Finally, Four Seasons is rewriting the rules of luxury travel. First with a White Lotus-inspired private jet itinerary (because even fictional resorts deserve real-life homage), and second with the appointment of Captain Kate McCue to helm its inaugural cruise. The residential-style suites promise seafaring opulence that could rival any penthouse, proving that the best addresses aren’t always on land.

(Tips? Sightings? Reach our editors at publisher@brandedliving.com)