Following the hugely successful launch of the luxury villa development Calaconta, which has just released for sale The Calaconta Collection - six bespoke homes offering the ultimate in beauty and security in Ibiza, luxury lifestyle PR agency Pilot PR is privileged to sit down and speak with Spanish designer and developer Jose Peman.
A modern renaissance man - musician, teacher, philosopher, banker, designer, collector and father - Pilot PR learns more about the man behind this acclaimed eco-luxe development.
You've travelled, worked and lived all over the world. What is the most interesting place you've ever been to?
During my early years in the States, I taught at a small prep school in Connecticut, South Kent School, in the town of Kent. I think I learned more about America during those years in that small town than anywhere else since then; it's strong values, respect for your neighbours and local democracy at work.
What is the biggest risk you've ever taken?
Leaving one of the most comfortable seats in one of the largest corporations in the States for the excitement and uncertainties of creating my own enterprise.
What encompasses your perfect day?
First, exercising for 40 minutes. Then, completing and attending to my daily business tasks in the morning followed by a stimulating lunch discussing art and/or significant social issues and events. I devote the afternoon to strategic business considerations and leave the rest of the day free for family, friends, reading and cultural activities.
Which talent would you most like to have that you don't possess?
Patience.
What are your top three desert island albums?
The Rolling Stones - 'Sympathy for the Devil'
Miles Davis - 'Sketches of Spain'
Anything by Willy Deville
Which books currently sit on your bedside table?
'La Sociedad de la Transparencia' by Byung-Chul Han
If you could own any piece of art in the world, which would it be?
La Pieta.
What is your favourite piece of art that you do own?
I am especially attached to an early work of Tapies that means a lot to me.
Who or what inspires you?
Excellence, what the classics called Arete. To always do the best I can while maintaining high professional and ethical standards.
You have a very large family. Do your children come to you for advice or do you seek it from them?
It works both ways.
What do you think are the most exciting recent developments that have turned Ibiza from a clubbing island into an exclusive luxury destination for the super rich?
The extraordinary 20s type cabaret Lio, by night, and the outstanding disco mecca Ushuaia, by day, have created a hedonistic, very exclusive enclave of fun and pleasure where quality and exclusivity permeates the scene. The key word is "exclusivity".
Given the success of Calaconta and the recent release of the ultra luxe Calaconta Collection, are there plans or opportunities for more luxury developments on the island?
I definitely have very exciting plans for Ibiza! Upon concluding my present run of visits to investors, I will announce those plans.
You first went to live in Ibiza at the age of 18 as part of the beat generation. How has the island changed since then?
Enormously, but against all odds, it remains true to it's beat essence.
And finally...The Beatles or The Rolling Stones?
I am a Rolling Stones man.