All posts by Brent

Brand Architecture: Blade Runner-style Advertising

Sonny Astani reimagines outdoor advertising:

Sonny Astani walked into a Westwood movie theater in 1985 and saw the film that changed his life: “Blade Runner,” the science-fiction tale that imagined a dystopian Los Angeles where jet-powered cars zoom past skyscrapers covered with enormous, cinematic advertisements.

Decades later, the Iranian-born businessman is determined to bring some of those futuristic images to life. His plan? Attach an animated sign 14-stories tall on the 33-story condominium project he is building in downtown L.A.

Los Angeles Times

Brand Culture | Can Burt’s Bees Turn Clorox Green?

Clorox thinks green:

Today, the couple’s quirky enterprise is owned by the Clorox Company, a consumer products giant best known for making bleach, which bought it for $913 million in November. Clorox plans to turn Burt’s Bees into a mainstream American brand sold in big-box stores like Wal-Mart. Along the way, Clorox executives say, they plan to learn from unusual business practices at Burt’s Bees — many centered on environmental sustainability. Clorox, the company promises, is going green.

New York Times

Our Names In The News: Las Casitas Del Colca Set To Open

The newest Orient-Express property is due to open in Southern Peru on April 15th, 2008:

Located in the heart of the Colca Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in the world, Las Casitas Del Colca is a haven of peace and tranquillity.

The property is nestled on the left bank of the Colca River and boasts twenty luxurious Casitas offering supreme privacy and exclusivity in simple, unpretentious surroundings.

This all inclusive property offers the opportunity to relax and spend time in harmony with nature, the canyon and the community.

Las Casitas del Colca

Our Names In The News: Librisa Spa Property Site Tells Of A Colourful Historical Past

Since opening its doors in 1899, the Mount Nelson Hotel has borne witness to two world wars and facilitated strategic tactic talks for South Africa’s famous Anglo Boer War.  For it was here, in the heart of Cape Town, that the great statesmen of the time, Lords Kitchener, Buller and Roberts gathered to discuss war stratagem.

Steeped in history and tradition, the Mount Nelson Hotel has continued to embark on its historical journey by acquiring six late Victorian buildings situated in the south extension of Faure Street, on the edge of its existing property. Four of these buildings have been sensitively renovated and adapted to house the luxurious new spa.

Home ownership in Victorian Cape Town during the 19th Century was limited to people of the ilk of successful merchants, high-ranking civil servants and affluent professionals.  Even then these people could not indulge their tastes until late in the century because of local building conditions, shortage of skilled labour and the high cost of imported components and materials. During this period, it was not usual for the vast majority of people in the lower end of the social scale to own their own homes.  These folk did not have sufficient funding to make the initial capital outlay, nor did they have the necessary collateral to borrow capital.
This situation provided fertile ground for the talented entrepreneur.  A capitalist investor would acquire the land by subdividing historic farmland, then build houses and rent them out to produce a handsome return on the money invested.  As the 19th Century progressed, the inner suburbs spread in a wide semi-circle around the old nucleus of Cape Town and were markedly split into two by the Company’s Gardens. The western half tended to continue conservatively in the Cape Dutch, mainly Georgian, tradition of building while the eastern side, which catered for the poorer and probably less influential classes, was developed in the modern English fashion.

It was the speculation that arouse surrounding the architecture of domestic dwellings in which the distaste of the style and design of the housing in that day was voiced, that led to the development of Wilkinson and Faure Streets.  Prior to the early 1860’s architects were not highly regarded in the Cape.  However, many years later, when new-found wealth and land developers made their mark upon society, that two architects destined to make a notable contribution to Cape Town’s cityscape, made their entrée and left their signature on four of the buildings in upper Faure Street.

Fred Cherry MRIA, an Irishman, designed no 34 and 36 Faure Street for William Irwin Esq.  Cherry also undertook alterations at the rear of no 32 Faure Street for the same client. William Black FRIBA, from England, was responsible for the relatively elaborate construction of Carnavon House at 30 Faure Street from Mr A Muller.

To fully appreciate the domestic architecture of Faure Street, it is necessary to understand what the private home meant to the society of the time.  For the Victorian middle class, the house had important connotations – it was regarded as the shrine of the family and was thought to be the focal point of life.

The house was also regarded as an accurate reflection of the social status of a family.  Even their cultural background and aspirations could be read from the choice and style of interior furnishings.

Needless to say, the first requirement in a house of any pretension was a good suite of reception rooms – the minimum being a dining and a drawing room.  In larger houses, additional reception rooms, such as a study and morning room were found.  Most had at least a third room which was usually smaller than the main reception rooms a little more private.

Besides these rooms, there seems to have been a fashion, which started in the 1880’s, for a small lady’s room upstairs.  This occurred in the largest houses and was usually associated with a balcony.  The provision of fireplaces in these rooms varied, but at a minimum the drawing room possessed at least one fireplace.

At least one bay window was required from 1880 onwards. This was found in the drawing room, but often the other reception rooms had them as well.  Bedrooms were not lavish either in size or number.  The single exception was the master bedroom, which also served as the sitting room of the mistress of the house, so it was usually made larger and given a fireplace.

Mr Faure himself resided in a fine old Georgian dwelling “Villa Faure”, at the lower end of Faure Street. This building was modified in 1901 for a Mr C J Muller esq. with two double-storeyed Victorian extensions and today exists as the “Fritz Hotel”. From there it progressed into Wilkinson Street.  The extension of Faure Street was almost certainly instigated by the developer and his intentions seem to have been to create an exclusive enclave in response to the affluence of the 1890’s.

Today all six buildings in Upper Faure Street have been identified in the draft Cultural Heritage Strategy as heritage resources, buildings and sites of outstanding local architecture, aesthetic and historical value.  As such the Librisa Spa at the Mount Nelson has been created in such a manner that whilst all new well-being philosophies shall be embraced, the past shall never be forgotten.

The Librisa Spa will be open to hotel-residents from mid December 2007 and to day-visitors from mid January 2008. For bookings call (27) (21) 483 1000.

Casa De Sierra Nevada Adds Another Mansion

Directly across from Limón is the lively new fine dining restaurant, Andanza, which means “an adventuresome and serendipitous walk.” This philosophy is reflected in executive chef Gonzalo Martinez’s dishes, which combine traditional and contemporary Mexican cuisine. The six unique rooms that make up Andanza include a beautiful open-air courtyard with orange trees and a cascading wall fountain; the Art Room, with a cozy fireplace and oversized leather chairs; the decadent Wine & Cava room; the elegant private Dining Room; and the Game Room, which entices guests to unwind with snug chairs and board games.

Gayot

Our Names In The News: Casa De Sierra Nevada Opens New Fine Dining Restaurant Andanza

Casa de Sierra Nevada, an Orient-Express hotel in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico, announces the opening of Andanza, its fine dining restaurant, on September 22nd. The Spanish word Andanza translates as “an adventuresome and serendipitous walk,” which will be reflected in Executive Chef Gonzalo Martinez’s dishes, combining traditional Mexican cuisine with a contemporary feel.

This elegant yet lively restaurant will offer dishes featuring seasonal, local produce. The six unique rooms that make up Andanza include: a beautiful open air courtyard with orange trees and a cascading wall fountain; the Art Room, with its cozy fireplace and oversized leather chairs; the decadent Wine & Cava room; and the elegant private Dining Room. When unwinding after a glorious day spent in San Miguel, the Game Room entices guests with its snug chairs and board games.

The stylish wooden interior and antique hand-stenciled walls of the Blue Bar is home to a vast tequila and beer selection. House made sangritas – a tomato-based drink usually spiked with hot chilies and lime that accompanies a tequila – are a must, and live modern Latin music, jazz, and international sounds complete the experience.

It will be open daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Andanza is the second of three restaurants that will be part of Casa de Sierra Nevada’s culinary offerings. The current Parque Restaurant offers traditional Mexican cuisine in a garden setting with an adjacent bar. The third, Limon, is scheduled to open in late autumn.

One and a half blocks from the Parroquia and main city square of San Miguel de Allende, the boutique hotel of Casa de Sierra Nevada is a mixture of 16th to 18th century Spanish colonial buildings.  Its 32 rooms and suites are spread amongst nine colonial mansions, including a 17th century fort, and the former residence of San Miguel de Allende’s Archbishop in the 16th century. With the hotel’s buildings situated around the town rather than in one location, the experience is akin to living in a beautiful, historic apartment, but with the fresh, new amenities and genuine Mexican hospitality provided by Casa de Sierra Nevada, making for a true cultural immersion. Founded in 1542, the town of San Miguel de Allende is a National Monument of Mexico. Sitting at 6,400 feet above sea level, the cobble-stoned streets of this colonial town are lined with palasios that today are a mixture of personal residences, galleries, restaurants and boutiques.

Every Kid Deserves To Grow Up

James Fund research successes have attracted the attentions of discerning donors in New York City, resulting in their generous support of ongoing James Fund projects. We are delighted to be working with our friends at Solving Kids’ Cancer, created in memory of Penelope and Hazen, two extraordinary children who will not be forgotten.

The James Fund

Mount Nelson’s New Spa Promises To Soothe The Senses

Time is drawing near for complete luxury and indulgence to descend upon the Mother City in the form of the Mount Nelson Hotel’s new R18 million luxurious Librisa Spa, which opens in December 2007.  Set in the lush gardens of the hotel, yet located in the heart of Cape Town, the Librisa Spa will offer visitors as well as local Capetonians, an oasis of unsurpassed splendour and attention to detail.The architecture of the 570 square meters development will incorporate design features of the Victorian era combined with a contemporary look that is guaranteed to impress.  The spa entrance is adjacent to the main Oasis swimming pool and will consist of a spacious and welcoming reception area.  Upon entering, your eye will be instantly drawn to the impressively large silk hand-painted wall paper feature, located behind the reception desk, reflective of the botanical theme and in synergy with the soothing setting of potted flowering annuals, topiary and palms. Soothing tones of pleasant creams and luxurious wood decorate an elegant and spacious interior.

Gorgeous off-white marble flooring makes for luxurious stepping as you browse the spa boutique area for beautiful handcrafted pieces of jewellery and other accessories or as your curiosity leads you to the beautiful open-display cabinets that allow you to sample the premier internationally as well as locally sourced beauty products. A comfortable seating area with refreshments is at your disposal whilst you wait for your pampering to begin.

To the left and right of the reception area are spacious ladies and gentlemen changing areas. Guests will be invited to disrobe and enjoy a sauna or steam bath as well as make use of the ‘his and hers’ plunge pools or a sensation shower, prior to the arranged treatment.  Dusky tones create a calming environment with the fusion of elements such as timber, marble and warm, natural stone.  Unwind on heated hot marble slabs after your steam or sensation shower guaranteed to completely relax your muscles in preparation for your pampering treatment with one of the qualified therapists. For those in need of a little grooming, there are separate manicure and pedicure rooms.

A covered walkway leads to the treatment building where a beautiful water feature captures your imagination at the base of the double volume staircase that leads to the first floor, offering stunning vistas of Table Mountain and the hotel’s landscaped gardens.  Eight (8) treatment rooms are split between the ground and upper floor, with four (4) rooms on each level.   Generously apportioned, the rooms create their own unique ambience, carrying the natural and botanical theme throughout. Locally sourced hand-painted botanical textile panels compliment the décor which comprises of natural and gentle tones of whites and creams.  Bronze mirrors are carefully positioned to reflect the soft light that balances the soul and mind.

Romance will play a key note in the spa concept where four (4) treatment rooms have been designed to offer dual treatments for partners. Stepping further into the spa, there will be an idyllic resting area replicating a quintessential English conservatory room.

Here, spa guests will be able to enjoy refreshments whilst taking in the atmosphere of trickling water and colourful blooms, before being met by their therapist.

Time spent at the new Librisa Spa allows for the perfect opportunity to escape from every day stress.  Luxurious, serene – the ultimate sensual escape.

Comments the hotel’s Managing Director, Nick Seewer; “The Mount Nelson provides guests with an unparalleled choice of accommodation and world-class facilities.  The Librisa Spa is an important extension of this brand philosophy ensuring visitors and guests of a pampering and invigorating experience”.

Brand Strategy: Apple Flexes Its Buzz Power

David Lazarus examines the Apple brand:

P.T. Barnum is most often credited with spotting the correlation between birthrates and suckerdom. If not Barnum, it might just as well have been Apple Inc.’s buzzmeister in chief, Steve Jobs.

After whipping people into a frenzy a couple of months ago for his $599 iPhone, Jobs now says he’s slashing the price by a third. The announcement Wednesday instantly drew scorn from Apple enthusiasts who’d rushed out to purchase the high-priced gizmo and now wonder whether they got played for chumps.

It also ensured yet more free press for a company that excels at the art of buzz and at manipulating both consumers and the media — a sophisticated practice that’s increasingly being employed by businesses and political players.

“Apple and Jobs are the masters,” said Ramez Toubassy, president of Brand Sense Partners, a Century City brand-consulting firm that counts Britney Spears and MGM among its clients. “All consumer-goods companies can take a page from their book.”

And despite his praise for Apple, Toubassy is as cheesed off at the company as anyone. Toubassy said he purchased his iPhone the day it went on sale, June 29, by paying a premium to someone else who stood in line for hours to get the gadget.

Toubassy was among numerous iPhone owners who tried in vain Thursday to get a $200 refund from Apple. “I love my iPhone,” he said. “It’s the principle more than anything else.”

As Apple’s buzz machine kicked into high gear Thursday, the company said it would offer $100 in store credit to angry iPhone owners like Toubassy, thus guaranteeing still more publicity and the prospect of even more profit.

Such is the power of buzz and the power of a hot brand.

“I would put branding on par with religion and politics for the influence it has on people’s lives,” said Brent Scarcliff, a Redondo Beach brand consultant. “It’s become that powerful.”

Case in point: Actor/politician Fred Thompson decided Wednesday to skip a Republican presidential debate and instead announce his much-buzzed-about candidacy on NBC’s “The Tonight Show With Jay Leno.”

Thompson’s no dummy. He knew he’d get more media attention traveling to a Burbank soundstage than to a New Hampshire political forum. “It’s a lot more difficult to get on ‘The Tonight Show’ than it is to get on a presidential debate,” he quipped to Leno.

Nice line. Just like the way Apple’s Jobs had a ready answer for why he was cutting iPhone prices by $200 so shortly after the product’s release.

He said he wanted to “put iPhones in a lot of stockings this holiday season,” rather than admitting to getting the better of all the buzz-monkeys out there who just have to have the gadget-du-jour, no matter what the cost.

“Some people call it manipulation,” Scarcliff observed. “Some call it leadership. There’s a very fine line between the two.”

Huntington Beach resident Andy Weiss knows where he stands on that particular issue. Like a lot of other iPhone owners, he said he woke up Thursday morning and felt like he’d been had.

“I was stunned,” Weiss, 51, said of reading in the paper about the price cut. “I felt completely taken advantage of.” He, too, contacted Apple on Thursday to demand a $200 refund.

“I’m not sorry I paid about $600 for an iPhone,” Weiss said. “But I am sorry I paid $600 for what’s really a $400 phone.”

Consumers have every reason to feel duped. But they have only themselves to blame. No one forces you to buy a $600 cellphone, no matter how much hype might be swirling around.

Similarly, everyone’s known for weeks that Thompson is running for president. Yet he still manages to land a place on “The Tonight Show” and overshadow his Republican rivals.

“If anyone’s suffering here, it’s the media’s objectivity,” Toubassy of Brand Sense Partners said. “You guys are being managed by smart marketeers and smart PR people who know you just have to have the story.”

It’s true. All media outlets want to be out front on a hot story. The trouble is, businesses and political campaigns are staffed by people — often former journalists — who know how the media’s hunger for a scoop can be manipulated and exploited.

What’s the answer? Not to cover the release of one of the most anticipated consumer products of the year? Not to give air time to a charismatic actor who wants to be president?

No. You go where the buzz leads you.

“Everybody’s willing to be manipulated to one extent or another,” said Scarcliff, the brand consultant.

And now that the iPhone’s come down $200 in price, he said he was ready to succumb to the buzz and go out and buy one.

“I didn’t want to feel like I was being manipulated just because everyone else was buying one,” Scarcliff said. “Now I can do it on my terms.”

There’s one born every minute.

Los Angeles Times