The sort of lifestyle that includes a live-in chef, butler, cleaner and nanny seems to belong to a past era, when affluent aristocrats could afford to maintain a full household staff. But in pockets around the world, people are starting to rediscover such a lifestyle with a twist.
Rather than each private residence maintaining its own staff, a trend has emerged towards apartment complexes that are serviced by shared staff. Offering far more than a mere turndown service and complementary chocolate, these apartments allow owners to lead a life of luxury in which every desire is taken care of from stocking the fridge with caviar to securing a first-edition Hemingway for the library.
These are among the many services available to apartment owners at San Francisco's St Regis Residences. General manager Elias Assaly says there has been plenty of interest in the concept, known worldwide as five-star living.
"We'd been talking about it for a few years, and met many people who said they'd love to live this way. It offers people a home where they don't have to worry about any of the details it's all taken care of," says Assaly.
Residents can have staff organise a party, cook a romantic dinner for two, baby-sit children, or organise alterations to your cocktail gown.
"It's also important to get to know the residents. For example, if you normally leave for work at 8am, we'll know that, and have your car ready for you."
Assaly says the concept appeals to retired people who want a simple, yet pampered lifestyle. On the opposite end of the scale, it's also attractive to young executives who will only live in San Francisco for a few years before moving on, and want a central, hassle-free apartment.