Aston Martin Unveils Its First Luxury Condominium

Category: Lifestyle/Entertainment

Listening

Unlocking Word Meanings

Read the following words/expressions found in today’s article.

  1. unveil / ʌnˈveɪl / (v) – to make something known
    Example:

    The car company unveiled its partnership with a real estate developer.


  2. artisan / ˈɑr tə zən / (adj) – made by a person who specializes in a certain craft
    Example:

    The artisan windows were designed by an international artist.


  3. amenity / əˈmɛn ɪ ti / (n) – something that makes one’s life easier or convenient
    Example:

    The hotel’s spa is a world-class amenity.


  4. turn (the) heads / tɜrn hɛdz / (idiom) – to attract people
    Example:

    The enormous mansion turned the heads of passersby.


  5. immense / ɪˈmɛns / (adj) – large in size
    Example:

    A lot of people do not want to visit the Grand Canyon because of its immense height.


Article

Read the text below.

Aston Martin, the famous manufacturer of the car used in the third James Bond film, has unveiled its sail-shaped luxury condominium in Miami, Florida.


Aston Martin Residences is a 66-story building that offers 391 units, seven penthouses, and one triplex penthouse. In partnership with G&G Business Developments, Aston Martin expects the condominium to be finished in 2021.


Marek Reichman, design team lead and chief creative officer of Aston Martin, said that the company will incorporate its signature elements and colors within the designs in various areas of the condominium. Included in the plan are artisan leather doors and handles and furniture made of a strong but lightweight material called carbon fiber. Reichman also mentioned that residents who want their units to be customized may send a request to their team.


There will be 24/7 valet butlers, charging stations for electric vehicles, and high-speed elevators in the condominium. Additional amenities include a gym, a spa, an art gallery, a golf simulator, a cinema room, and a beauty salon for men and women.


Meanwhile, another luxurious condominium in Manhattan, New York, turned the heads of possible clients. Also known for being the tallest residential building in the Western Hemisphere, 432 Park Avenue Condominium joins the league of famous buildings such as the Empire State building, the Chrysler, and the One World Trade Center.


The building is 96 stories high and has 104 condominium units. It houses entertainment, beauty, and fitness facilities such as a spa, a gym, a pool, a billiards room, and a temperature-regulated wine storage. With its immense height, residents are given access to scenic views of the Atlantic Ocean and New York City.


Viewpoint Discussion

Enjoy a discussion with your tutor.

Discussion A

• Would you be interested to buy a unit in Aston Martin Residences? Why or why not?
• What are the advantages and disadvantages of buying luxurious condominium units?

Discussion B

• If you were to design your own condominium unit, what theme would you choose (e.g. minimalist)? Why?
• What amenity would you like to add to your current house? Why?