Editorial Review

PREVIEW: More like a mini Versailles than a hotel, we got word that the first show residence is now ready for viewing, and thus thought a sneak peak would be in order. Hardly surprisingly, the debut 4732 square foot private living space has no truck with minimalist restraint. Rather, it unabashedly flaunts a sort of Habsburg-by-way-of-South-Beach-by-way-of-Athenian-Empire glamour, centered on a grand reception room. Mosaics, marble floors, and exclusive Versace furniture (think: silk armchairs) abound. The 5.5 hectare resort itself is ensconced in the new Culture Village, Dubai's fanciful effort to add a cultural sheen to its seemingly significantly mercenary character. Plans call for 213 lavish suites (in addition to 169 private residences), plus a spa, a Versace ready-to-wear and jewelry boutique, an Italian restaurant, and assorted pool-adjacent tippling options. Oh, and naturally, a private marina.