STUDIO ANNETTA

Hot off the press!

2012-01-27T17:04:00.013+08:00

I'm back, but before I regale you with tales of the Orient, I would love to share with you these images of the Flint lights from Caste - their very first lighting collection! The lamps are all cast in bronze with handmade shades of French paper. Very cool indeed.

Along with the rest of their collection, the lights will be available directly from Caste…or in the US through Holly Hunt in NY, LA, Miami and Chicago and Jennifer West in Seattle.

Bangkok, bring it on!

2012-01-20T14:30:00.000+08:00

I'm off to Bangkok over the Chinese New Year weekend, for part work, part pleasure. I hope everyone in Hong Kong enjoys the long weekend, and Happy Year of the Dragon everyone!

A couple of pics of where I'll be staying...will share more with you when I get back!

The Shoe Library

2012-01-19T13:00:00.004+08:00

I'm very excited to be able to share these images with you (especially with those of you outside of HK!) of the recently completed 'Shoe Library' in the new Lane Crawford flagship store in Tsim Sha Tsui. For those of you who don't know, Lane Crawford is to Hong Kong as Barney's or Bergdorf's would be to New York, or Harrods & Harvey Nichols to London. Simply put, its a shoppers paradise. And I've considered moving in there on several occasions. Known for their stylish modern interiors, which had previously been done by the super retail duo Yabu - Pushelberg, this time around Lane Crawford has asked local design wunderkind Andre Fu (the designer behind the uber chic Upper House Hotel) to design some of the spaces.

Stepping through the Canton Road entrance of the store you find yourself in the 'Great Room', the mainstay of the entire space, featuring a soaring 5m high ceiling, library armoires in bronze and abstract French panels. Floors are finished in Romano marble and covered with elaborate rugs from the Andre Fu Collection for Tai Ping Carpets. There are also eighty-something bespoke pieces of furniture dotted around the entire Library, among them The Salon's 5m long table with Alberto Giacometti inspired legs, and hand-embroidered silk wall panels echoing the work of French fashion illustrator Christian Berard, in warm shades of solferino and lilac.

The entire experience is somewhat surreal considering the quietude and sophistication of the space (not to mention all those shoes!) in contrast to the chaotic streetscape just outside. I would make the Shoe library my home, if only I didn’t have to leave the island to get there ;)

All images care of AFSO

more from Mohn

2012-01-09T17:58:00.011+08:00

A couple of treasures from James Mohn's online portfolio...the top one has kept me going all day...it looks like such a snug spot to spend a cold winters day...

although knowing Hong Kong, just give it a few months and I'll be dreaming of somewhere cool and calm, just like this...

Loft living

2012-01-06T16:05:00.020+08:00

My husband and I have recently been thinking about converting some warehouse space to live in, and while I'm obsessing over how I would furnish it, I was reminded of this amazing duplex loft apartment in New York that is the home of architect/designer James Mohn and his partner. The space was published back in the Feb/March 2004 edition of Elle Decor, but its been firmly planted in the back of my mind ever since. The high ceilings and sheer amount of light is definitely appealing, but they've used the space so perfectly I think. Plus, I'm in love with the artwork and their furniture...

in search of the perfect chai

2012-01-05T10:05:00.013+08:00

I came across the spicy chai blend by French artisinal apothecary company, Mad et Len, in the Causeway Bay I.T. store before Christmas. I couldn't wait to get back to the Hong Kong winter after my holiday to give it a try. Its not quite as spicy as the label suggests, its actually quite mild, but still very nice. It seems my hunt continues. I'm not sure anything will ever come close to my favorite tea house, Kusmi.

As I've admitted before, I'm a sucker for packaging, and of course this is partly what attracted me to the tea (although the list of ingredients also sounded pretty yum). So, I think I need to track down a local stockist for their perfume and bathwares as those black bottles with atomisers are so cute I don't even care what's in them!

What a way to start the year!

2012-01-04T08:33:00.002+08:00

Happy New Year everyone! I think 2012 is going to be a good one, I can feel it in my bones. And what better way to kick-off the blogging year than with these images from what is fast becoming my favorite online read, Nuevo Estilo? Maybe one of my new years resolutions should be to learn Spanish? For a start, I'm loving this green. My trip back home to Australia over Xmas saw me fall in love with all shades of green all over again. Its quite an eclectic look, but I adore the coziness of it, and I think I'd be quite happy curling up on any of those chairs with a cuppa and a book and while away the rest of winter. What do you think, sound good?

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas...

2011-12-07T08:32:00.012+08:00

I think a few groups of these lovely antiqued and mercury glass hurricanes by Skogsberg & Smart would put me in the spirit!

Unfortunately I'm not in the spirit just yet, I'm running all over the place like an idiot at the moment trying to finish of a few projects before I head home for a much needed holiday. I haven't been back to Australia for 2 years, first time for Christmas for at least 3yrs, and my little sister is getting married, so excited! So...you might not hear from me til the new year...in which case, I wish you all a fantastic 2012, I have a feeling it'll be a good one! (although I say that each year, don't I?)

Suzy x

Dealers Choice

2011-11-30T08:03:00.026+08:00

I'm not sure why it took me so long to come across this book, but I'm glad I finally have a copy. "Dealers Choice" (released in May this year), with a foreword by Michael Bruno of 1stDibs.com, is a stunning compendium of the homes of some of the worlds greatest dealers of furniture and design. There are so many well known names amongst the list, but its the home of Parisienne, Mary Jourdan, in particular that has caught my eye. The monochromatic palette may not be to everyone's taste, but I love the quiet sophistication of it. This is but a taste of her apartment, let alone the entire book, so if you like what you see I highly recommend it.

Scored!

2011-11-18T10:31:00.005+08:00

This is my kinda drug. Two stunning original Tommi Parzinger chairs. A very naughty purchase, but you only live once, and living without these wouldn't be really living I think. Now I just need the patience to wait for them to be shipped...

los interiores español

2011-11-16T16:01:00.002+08:00

I need to move to Spain...Like now.

The latest deliciousness on Nuevo Estilo.

riva, arriba!

2011-11-14T08:16:00.009+08:00

can you handle one more brass post?

I've fallen head over heels in love with the products of Brazilian manufacturer, riva. Currently stocked in Lane Crawford for you Hong Kongers, although you'd better hurry because the brass is selling out fast! I couldn't help myself...I snagged a lovely cake stand and water jug...and now I want the cutlery, and the champagne bucket, and....

highly polished productivity

2011-11-11T16:33:00.013+08:00

I've been eyeing off the brass limited edition version of the CH110 desk by Carl Hansen for a while now, so I was thrilled to finally see the real thing in person at Lane Crawford today. The original was designed by Hans Wegner in 1970, but I think the brass version is the perfect blend of Scandinavian modern and present day pizazz!

a floating paradise...

2011-11-09T10:11:00.014+08:00

A reader kindly sent me images of this stunning Yacht, “NUMPTIA”, which was on show at Monaco Boat Show recently. The interior was done by someone unknown to me, Achille Salvagni, an Italian Architect. Definitely one to watch. It seems from his website that he specialises in boat interiors, so If I decide I'm in the market for a boat anytime soon, he'll be the man for the job!

Ilse Crawford for Georg Jensen

2011-10-26T11:46:00.013+08:00

I'm loving these new designs by Ilse Crawford for Georg Jensen. The "precious" collection consists of bowls, vases, boxes and a candle holder, available in luxe finishes like brass (my current fave, as seen in the images below), copper or stainless steel. Each piece is as refined as the next, and have been designed with the idea of bringing poetry to everyday living. I think I need one of each!

antipodean abodes

2011-10-24T17:49:00.011+08:00

Another new book to be released just in time for Xmas is INTERIORS: Australia and New Zealand by Mitchell Oakley Smith (with a foreword by David Clark - editor of Vogue Living Australia).

INTERIORS presents a broad snapshot of the contemporary Australian and New Zealand home, as told through over 30 of the industry's leading practitioners. From coastal retreats and ecologically sustainable farmhouses, to renovated Victorian terraces and contemporary city penthouses, the variety of projects showcased reflects the region’s architectural and design diversity. The highly-regarded work of established design practices is richly illustrated through detailed photography and extensive profiles. INTERIORS contains over 200 colour images and the industry leaders’ inside spots for the best design, furniture and art around the world. A detailed directory provides contacts for the interior designers and architects responsible for the projects featured in the book.

I was fortunate enough to have the opportunity to ask the author Mitchell Oakley Smith a few questions about the book and how one begins to start when you have such an enormous amount of great work to chose from...

What was the inspiration behind this book?
Interest in design is undeniably on the rise. People are spending more time at home, perhaps a result of multimedia engagement and accessibility, or maybe a post-GFC era of reduced spending. Social and economic climate aside, the television programs, magazines, blogs and events dedicated to interiors and architecture indicate our focus is firmly on residence: the place in which we rest, nest and spend our leisure time. I created Interiors in response to this change with the aim of creating a tangible record of the current period in Australia and New Zealand's design history.

How long did it take you to compile all the information in the book?
Unlike my first book, and maybe because of it, this book didn't take too long to put together. It took 8 months in total.

How did you decide which designers/projects to feature and which not to?
There's over 30 designers featured in the book. When I began, I created an extensive list of every designer working in the region and gradually edited down to those I believe are making a unique and creative contribution to the industry today. Of the projects featured, the criteria was that they are relatively contemporary and represent the designers' work.

What particularly about Australian and New Zealand interiors do you think is unique and different to the rest of the world?
Our local form of design, as made apparent by the book and its subjects, is to serve the population's lifestyle needs: efficiency, security and a desire for the outdoors and indoors to be seamlessly connected. The use of elemental building materials, including concrete, steel, timber and glass, create an interesting aesthetic, raw and yet refined. This is further defined by a penchant for partial enclosures and for a connection to the surrounding landscape. Unlike other regions, Australia and New Zealand have not been bound by history or specific design traditions. Instead, there has been a freedom to cherry pick elements from around the world. The aesthetic of local interior design is one as broad as the region's cultural diversity. There is BKH's cool mishmash of Modernish and decoration, contrasting the relaxed grandeur of Thomas Hamel & Associates, the architectural innovation and commitment to landscape and sustainability of Patterson Associates, and the finely crafted whimsy of Hecker Guthrie.

What changes have you seen in the way Australians and New Zealanders design and decorate their homes in the last decade, and what changes do you anticipate for the future?
In Sydney alone, the next 20 years will see the addition of over 600,000 dwellings on top of an existing 1.2 million. If Australians weren't building houses three times the size of the British average, this wouldn't pose such a significant problem. Fortunately, design institutions are producing graduates of a high calibre and teaching curriculums that emphasise environmental sustainability. Hopefully, in the near future, green design will cease to be an optional, costly extra, but rather a seamlessly integrated element of contemporary architecture and design.

Designer David Hicks Residence Melbourne, Victoria

Designer Hare & Klein Residence Coledale New South Wales

Makes me proud to be an aussie!

INTERIORS: Australia and New Zealand will be released next month by Thames & Hudson, and will retail for AUD $79.95.

Be still my heart

2011-10-20T11:38:00.006+08:00

Purple lacquered library by Haynes-Roberts, photographed by William Waldron for Elle Decor Nov 2011. There are no words...

Absolute perfection (again)

2011-10-15T12:01:00.006+08:00

I think San Francisco based designer Steven Volpe might just be my new favorite designer. His work ticks all the boxes for me. This particular home, which was featured in the latest US Architectural Digest, is amazing. I'm personally not keen on the faux neo-classical outside of the building, but Volpe has updated the inside of it perfectly. The interior is clean and minimal and every last detail has been distilled down to its very essence.

Let's start with the entry. Imagine coming home through those doors every night..!? They're heavenly. As is the Anish Kapoor sculpture (on the right), and the Ado Chale table (centre)...and the list goes on...

The dining room, with its Zaha Hadid dining table, is stunning in its simplicity. Interestingly though, the artwork in this image is different to the piece photographed for the AD shoot. I think I prefer this piece...what do you think?

And then there's the lounge. I love the minimal detail around the inset bookshelves. Is that bronze? The shot of colour at the back is simple but effective. And if you're going to have a billiard table, why not have one restored from 1915... seriously, I think I'm in love.

Photos from Steven Volpe's website, feature in AD was photographed by Pieter Estersohn.

El Casco

2011-10-12T09:31:00.018+08:00

Any of you who read this blog on a semi regular basis will be familiar with my current obsession with all things brass, and (or especially) desk accessories. I recently stumbled upon the Spanish brand El Casco which is stocked in Hong Kong by Papyrus. They have a pretty big selection of desk top accessories in different finishes, but of course it was the brass that caught my eye. Actually, its a gold finish, which normally would make me go into convulsions, but I think in the right space it would look amazing. Anyhow, I splurged and picked myself up a tape dispenser and some scissors. They are definitely a little more gold than the other bits and pieces I've got, but I'm kinda hoping they'll tarnish a little over time. I'm still thinking about the hole punch and stapler from their range...I like the look of them but am wondering if it might look more fun to have more of a mix on my desk.

Don't let these images fool you, they're a little dated looking, but in real life I think they're quite stunning!

* NB the El Casco range is also available in Hong Kong in the new Harvey Nichols store in Pacific Place!

Exotic Taste

2011-10-06T22:10:00.006+08:00

"Exotic Taste: Orientalist Interiors" by Emmanuelle Gaillard with photography by Marc Walter is a must for the library of anyone interested in orientalism, chinoiserie, and all things exotic. This subject matter is a little close to my heart having lived in Asia for almost 9 years, and my recent trip to India that still occupies my thoughts. Starting with the arts of China and Japan, moving to the magnificence of India and then on to the splendour of the Near East, "Exotic Taste" beautifully illustrates the arts of each region. Over 200 colour photographs and illustrations of exuberant interiors, elaborately patterned fabrics and wallpapers, intricate decorative objects, and incredible costumes. I think this book will prove to be inspiring time and time again.

In the interests of full disclosure I was sent a complimentary copy of this book by the publisher, Vendome Press. And while I'm thrilled to bits to be sent books for review, in all seriousness this is one I would definitely go out and buy.

Orlando Diaz-Azcuy

2011-10-01T20:39:00.001+08:00

This, just in case y'all were wondering, is what I've been obsessing over this week (wouldn't want to leave you hanging!). Orlando Diaz-Azcuy fabulousness from Veranda magazine. Add a dash of colour and I could move right on in.

The New Bespoke

2011-09-28T20:49:00.017+08:00

I remember seeing this image for the first time in Elle Decor back in November 2007. It took my breath away than, and it still does today. Its the art, the richness of the colours, those textured walls, and above all else the fascinating mix of furniture. The lucky resident of this room is also the designer, Frank Roop, and I have since become a massive fan. Roop's work has been widely published and I've been able to sate my appetite for the visual richness that he puts together so deftly. So, as you can imagine, I'm quite looking forward to getting his first book in my hot little hands.

"Frank Roop - The New Bespoke", will not be like any other design book we've read. Of his first monograph, Roop says "I didn’t want it to be just a portfolio of my work, but a book with a story and a point of view." In a push against today’s mass-produced world, Roop features and celebrates the cottage industry of local artisans who craft his custom furniture that have become such a signature element of his interiors. And with a nod to his past, in specialty menswear, the book features a variety of inspirations drawn from the worlds of art, archticture, fashion and nature.

And I gotta say, if the book is put together only half as well as the homes he creates, its sure to be a best seller. I can't wait for my copy to arrive...

Brazillian beauty

2011-09-23T20:00:00.000+08:00

I've fallen in lust with these images that were sent to me of a hotel suite inside the annual 'Casa Cor' show house in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Designed by the talented team Juliana Vasconcellos and Carlos Maia of Vasconcellos Maia Arquitetos Associados, the show house will be open until next month. I love what these guys have done with the space, only 85 m2 and it feels quite spacious from these images.

I wish I could head along and check it out, I've never been to South America and am very keen to go. So if you're in Rio, get on down and let me know what you think!

Yum

2011-09-16T18:48:00.014+08:00

I have to say, I think I'm liking this whole electronic magazine thing. Getting a notification in my inbox telling me my magazine has "arrived" is a nice feeling on a Friday...knowing I don't need to run all over town to pick up a copy. And, frankly, I think the images are even better.

The cover story took my breath away - a Paolo Moschino designed townhouse in London. Although, I've never been a fan of using brush fringe on sofa seat cushions like that, but I'll forgive him just this once...

Photographed by Simon Upton for Elle Decor October 2011.

2011-09-14T21:07:00.006+08:00

Love, love, LOVED the feature on Adriana Abascal's apartment by Chahan Minassian in the latest AD España, but seriously folks, where is the rest of it? Two good images just doesn't cut it! I don't want to see images of her modelling in front of her art collection, I want to see the rest of the space!

Brassy goodness

2011-09-06T16:55:00.020+08:00

I'm a little obsessed with all things made of brass at the moment...well almost all things. In particular, desk top accessories and stationary.

I've just picked myself up one of these brass rulers, from baum-kuchen, from their Brass collection. Its teeny tiny, but I love it.

And I'm really hoping that the brass desk set by Michael Verheyden for Wallpaper magazine goes into production...I'm totally in love with those scissors!

Bellocq

2011-09-04T17:30:00.015+08:00

I discovered a new (to me) tea label at Lane Crawford over the weekend, Bellocq. I'm a sucker for nice packaging, and the bright yellow and polished stainless steel canisters definitely caught my eye. I bought myself a tin of their "Queen's Guard" blend, which is a mix of Organic black Ceylon tea, organic rose petals, organic lavender and organic cornflowers. Its a lovely light tea, perfect for the afternoon, and a little sweet (you can definitely taste the rose petals). Their range is quite large, but I think Lane Crawford (Pacific Place) only stocks a few of their blends. I'm keen to try a few more, in particular their Breakfast blend and the Afghan Chai - a mix of Organic Assam black tea, organic red poppy flowers, green cardamon, star anise, ginger, clove and black pepper.... sounds yum!

the old and the new

2011-08-28T14:10:00.001+08:00

Another new book release I'm looking forward to..."The World of Muriel Brandolini". It's hard to not be envious of Brandolini: an exotic family and upbringing; an Italian banker for a husband who also happens to be a Count; and a few fabulous family homes around the world. Credit where credit is due though, Brandolini is not just another wealthy house wife who suffers from delusions of being a designer. Brandolini is a one of a kind and has created some of the most refreshingly new and achingly stylish interiors. Ever. If the front cover is anything to go by, this book will be a treat. I can't wait.

Out of the books I've recently finished, "The Architecture of Happiness" is definitely the best. In fact, it may even be one of the best books I've ever read. Alain de Botton, author of several non-fiction books, is also the founder of The School of Life and the Living Architecture foundation. In this particular book de Botton talks about the significance of architecture in a way that my writing skills will not do justice to describe. His words are poetic, moving and meaningful. Everyone should read this book, from critics to lovers of the built environment. If you didn't already understand the profound effect our man-made surroundings have on us on a daily basis, you soon will. The best passage from this book has stuck in mind, and probably always will - "An ugly room can coagulate any loose suspicions as to the incompleteness of life...."

Another fantastic read - "The Death and Life of Great American Cities" by Jane Jacobs. Or anything by Jane Jacobs really. Jacobs seminal work on the planning and development of cities was incredibly influential at the time it was written, in the 1960's. Even reading this today so many of Jacobs thoughts and ideas are incredibly current, relevant and just as important today as they were then. The issues she raises do not just pertain to American cities, or even just New York where she was living at the time of writing. These are issues of city planning and urban development that are important to all cities in all countries of the world. Only now, there is more of a sense of urgency. We are still building cities for cars instead of people...

Absolute perfection

2011-08-27T11:10:00.005+08:00

I'm so in love with this vignette in the home of designer Steven Volpe, I just had to share.

Photographed by William Abranowicz for Elle Decor September 2011.

Books worth waiting for

2011-08-21T13:38:00.031+08:00

It seems like this is the time of year for publishers to come out with new releases, as there are a few more that I'm waiting for not so patiently. Here are a couple I have pre-ordered, and one I'm still pondering...

I have long admired the work of NY based David Kleinberg...his style is modern and classic and utterly timeless. A previous employee of the venerable firm Parish-Hadley Associates he has been running his own company since 1997. Kleinberg is responsible for some of my all-time favorite rooms and I can't wait to see what is in his first book, "Traditional Now". I just hope it doesn't disappoint - or worse that its full of images already on his website.

Another of my favorite designers is Peter Marino, a man of almost unmatched style. No great surprise then that he and his firm are behind the design for many of the high-end retail stores around the world, including those for Luis Vuitton. If its what I'm hoping it will be, this new book "Louis Vuitton, Architecture & Interiors" should prove to be a long term source of inspiration.

I've blogged about Maria Pergay before, and I already own a book on her work, the previous edition by Suzanne Demisch and Stephane Danant. As I'm not sure how much more this volume will contain I'm still pondering. But I suggest if you're a fan of Pergay (and if you're not, you should be!) and you are interested in her work then this new volume "Maria Pergay: Complete works 1979 - 2010" would be the book to buy.

Pinto in print

2011-08-15T20:43:00.021+08:00

I recently, somewhat reluctantly, subscribed to the electronic format of bunch of magazines that I regularly buy. Until I get myself an ipad I'm going to be reading them on my pc, which is just not the same as holding a magazine in your hands. I will miss it, however, I decided it was finally time to put my money where my mouth was and stop participating in the destruction of so many trees. That, and I am running out of space for them (I have 10 yrs worth of some, and I just can't bear to part with them)...and I'll save a little money in the meantime.

So I was pretty thrilled with my in print version of Architectural Digest this weekend, and in particular the dressing room of Alberto Pinto's own Rio de Janeiro apartment. Not so much with any other of the rooms, but the bleached mahogany pretty much made up for the rest of it in my eyes.

I've long been an admirer of Pinto's work, so its a little surprising that this is my first post about him. I also don't own any of the many books he has published. However, I noticed today that he has a new one coming out that looks interesting, and I think it just may feature this apartment. Its available for pre-order on Amazon now....so do yourself a favour and reserve yourself a copy like I did!

Photograph of Pinto's dressing room taken by Ngoc Minh Ngo for AD USA, September 2011.

Stuart Scott & Associates

2011-08-04T20:12:00.001+08:00

Its been almost a year since I was in London celebrating with our friends at their wedding. That means its also almost a year since I was at Decorex....(where on earth has the year gone??) I wish I was able to go again this year, but since I can't I am certainly enjoying from afar the images of the new range of furniture by Stuart Scott & Associates. Stuart, formerly of Somerville Scott & Co., is launching his first collection at Decorex this year. Each piece is a definite classic, and I only wish I was able to see them in real life as I'm sure they're even cuter than their photographs. So, to those of you attending Decorex, or any of the other wonderful design events in London this year, enjoy... however for those of you, like myself, who won't be there - these are for you!

Toku Table

Vagas Lounger Chair

Tux Sofa

Sir Roger Chair

Isabella Slipper Chair

Henri Club Chair

Alae Wing Chair

Tenno Table

Parqueterie Table

Edo Table

All images care of Stuart Scott

Rees Roberts

2011-07-24T09:13:00.014+08:00

I think my heart almost skipped a beat when I saw these images of a recent project by NY based firm Rees Roberts + Partners. The firm's website has been recently updated and contains all manner of loveliness. I love the clean lines and elegant simplicity in this apartment. I'm hoping to move apartments soon, and I only wish it was to a place that looked like this! *sigh*

A Bespoke Journey

2011-07-19T09:09:00.004+08:00

I'm very excited to announce the recent launch of the very first book by Hong Kong's hottest designer, Andre Fu.

Entitled "A Bespoke Journey", the coffee table book features some of Fu's work with his firm, AFSO, over the last ten years. Including internationally acclaimed projects such as The Upper House hotel in Hong Kong, the Fullerton Bay Hotel in Singapore, his work with agnès b, and the countless stylish restaurants he's done around the world, its sure to be a winner.

If you are a fan, like I am, the book can be purchased in Hong Kong at Lane Crawford Lifestyle stores, leading book shops in the Asia Pacific region, or online through Amazon

Tondelli

2011-07-01T09:14:00.003+08:00

I felt as though Christmas had come early this year when the new catalogue from Italian furniture company Tondelli landed on my desk this week. I feel head over heels in love with the entire collection. The upholstered pieces look well designed, generous and actually comfortable, while the casegoods seem sturdy, well proportioned and really versatile. The use of hammered bronze for legs and lamp bases remind me of the work of the Giacometti brothers, and I guess it was the designers inspiration as the floor lamp (see bottom image) is named Diego. If you are just as in love with these images as I, check our their website for more...

California Dreamin'

2011-06-22T19:15:00.004+08:00

Have you ever recognised someone, not from their face, or name, but by their apartment?....well, that's exactly what happened to me last month when I picked up a copy of Elle Decor.

Hmmm...I thought to myself, Michael De Perno...that name kinda rings a bell, but I couldn't place it. I don't quite know what it was that jogged my memory - lord knows some days I have trouble remembering my own name...but for some reason I had an Aha! moment and pulled out my very first kept issue of Elle Decor from May 2001 (almost exactly ten years earlier), and there it was, on page 214, Michael De Perno's classic 1920's LA apartment.

At the time the article was published I was living in a tiny apartment in Tokyo and De Perno's apartment was great daydreaming fodder. It was light, airy, full of real furniture (I barely owned any at that stage) and I loved the classic details of the house. I also loved the mix of furniture, we had barely begun to buy the Japanese antiques we now own (in storage in Australia nonetheless), and I was intrigued by how he had put it all together.

Fast forward ten years down the track (where the hell did all that time go?) and De Perno's new abode is still providing me with daydream fodder, except that now I'm living in a tiny apartment in Hong Kong. His new house is much more modern, and it seems his style has evolved in a similar way that mine has. I'm glad to see he has retained much of his furniture....(I think thats partly what helped me recognise the house as his)...a Japanese tansu here, a chest of drawers there, its still a nice mix. While the architecture of the house has changed, the overal aesthetic has not. Its still light and airy and I think that - along with the fabulous sense of indoor-outdoor living - is what I'm day dreamin' about most.

Michael De Perno's previous home, photographed by Jeremy Samuelson for Elle Decor back in May 2001.

De Perno's new abode, photographed by Laura Resen for Elle Decor June 2011.

BRAT @ The Landmark

2011-06-18T13:20:00.003+08:00

FYI Hong Kongers...

Hotel Bel-Air

2011-06-15T21:41:00.005+08:00

The Legendary Hotel Bel-Air is re-openining in October this year after 24 months of extensive redesign and refurbishment, and I am very excited to be able to share some images with you before it even opens!

The design of the hotel has been a collaborative effort between two design teams - Alexandra Champalimaud and Rockwell Group - both internationally renowned and responsible for some of the most amazing hospitality spaces.

Both firms have taken great care to keep much of the hotel’s originality, restoring the most beloved iconic elements while adding contemporary touches. The familiar Spanish Colonial architecture splashed in “Bel-Air Pink” is still present while a new Bel-Air aesthetic has been introduced in a fresh, youthful and elegant manner.

The Hotel will re-open with 12 new accomodations built into the hillside offering sweeping canyon views, expansive sliding glass walls, outdoor fireplaces and spacious decks with private infinity edge spa pools. The original 103 guest rooms will re-open with larger bathrooms and heated floors. In addition, seven specialty suites which have been individually designed - including the famous Grace Kelly suite and a new Presidential Suite compound with 6,775 square feet of indoor and outdoor living space. This suite will offer private dining for 10, a chef’s kitchen, a study, great room with grand piano, and a private pool located within a private Spanish courtyard. Sounds very Presidential indeed!

Lobby area

The Canyon-view Suite

Bathroom

Spa Loft

Relaxation Room

Presidential Suite

Presidential Suite Bathroom

In celebration of the opening, Hotel Bel-Air has launched a Facebook promotion and is giving away a three night stay, $500 dining credit, $500 La Prairie Spa credit AND an autographed Wolfgang Puck cookbook! All you have to do to enter the contest is become a fan of Hotel Bel-Air on Facebook before October 15th, 2011. Fingers crossed, and good luck to us all...(I wouldn't mind a trip to LA!) ;)

All images care of Champalimaud Design

Splendid Spina's pretty passamenterie

2011-06-09T20:36:00.024+08:00

I think I've had a closet fascination for passamenterie ever since I found out the meaning of the word...about 15 years ago. My love for passamenterie has meant I've tried to use them in my projects whenever I could, but the lack of more modern designs tended to limit their use to more traditional style interiors, until quite recently. A great tie-back or tassel, in my opinion, is like jewellery for a room. In the same way a knock-out necklace can make an average outfit look a million bucks, a jazzy little tassel will give a curtain or a window just a little more pizazz.

There are not many passamenterie companies left in the world who still hand make their products, but Spina (of the UK) is one of the few remaining and I've had my eye on them for a while. Not only are they making great contemporary designs, but they're making them with unusual and luxurious materials. Their latest collection "Temari" uses eggshells, hand-woven rattan amongst others, and prevoius collections have made use coral, crystal, goose and ostrich feathers, mother of pearl, semi precious stones and Mink fur!

Check out the latest collection...

Threading on Eggshells Tie-back

Hand-woven Rattan Tie-back

Black Temari Tie-back

Now Spina is lending their crafty skills to embellishing cushions....

Assorted cushions from the Embellished collection>

the lovely "Coronet" cushion

and the lovely "Blossom" cushion

To die for. I think I'll take one of each thanks....

Massimo

2011-06-01T19:45:00.012+08:00

David Collins Studio has done it again! Their latest project is "Massimo" located in the brand new five star Corinthia Hotel, which opened at the end of April. The restaurant is named after the Roman chef Massimo Riccioli who will bring his signature cooking to London for the very first time.

The design was inspired by the beauty of the late Victorian building, and mixes English architectural references with classical Italian styling.

The overall mood of relaxed elegance has been created throughout the space using a stunning colour combination colour of black, white and rich green. The details that David Collins Studio is renowned for are definitely on show here, and many of Collins' signature luxury materials have been used to their best advantage - timbers, marbles, leathers and glassware sourced from around the world.

In addition, David Collins was very keen that the design reflect the exquisite simplicity of Massimo’s cooking, commenting: "Our vision was to make this restaurant simple, informal, enjoyable and beautiful – as always translating words into reality is a journey, and this journey has been exciting and fun."

Its definitely a winner in my book, and will be high on my list of restaurants to check out on my next trip to London (which, with another wedding coming up, might not be that far away!)

Photograph by Richard Powers, care of David Collins Studio

Andre Fu + Tai Ping London launch party

2011-05-31T19:09:00.009+08:00

I thought I'd share a few photos sent to me of the recent London launch party for the Andre Fu carpet collection for Tai Ping. The event was held in an old church in the heart of Mayfair - personally I think the carpets are just as stunning as the building. What a beautiful backdrop...wish I could have been there!

All images care of AFSO

Kolkata - East of India

2011-05-29T19:25:00.001+08:00

Kolkata's charming faded grandeur

I must admit, I have a bit of a soft spot for Kolkata...this was my second visit and the city has definitely charmed me. I think Kolkata has earned an unfair reputation amongst foreigners, or at least their perception of what its like is somewhat undeserved. Kolkata was once the jewel in the crown of the British Empire, their proudest achievement off their own shores. Sadly, it still seems to be recovering from the departure of the British, and the annexing of Bengal into Bangladesh, however there seemed to me to be a sense of hope and a pride.

After having spent at least a week in Rajasthan on this trip before heading to Kolkata, I had a much better sense of how different this city is compared to the other Indian cities we visited. The crumbling facades of the old city are leftovers of the British Empire, rather than crumbling Havelis, Forts and Palaces of Maharajas and the like.

One of many crumbling buildings I wanted to adopt

We stayed with friends while in Kolkata, but I believe that there is a Taj and an Oberoi in town if you are a devout sybarite, or a range of other options to suit most budgets. My other recommendations for a few days in Kolkata include...

Sightseeing & Shopping:

The Marble Palace - I have no photos as they are not allowed, but this is one of the most amazing 19th century Colonial buildings in all of India, let alone West Bengal. Our host in Kolkata knows the owners and arranged a private tour for us, so we were incredibly lucky to say the least. The house was built in 1835 by Raja Rajendra Mullick, a wealthy Bengali merchant who had a passion for collection European art. Part of the house is still used as a private residence by Mullick's descendants, hence the no photo policy. I can't begin to describe to you the surreal collection that is housed in this amazing mansion. Vast collections of ceramics, paintings (one by Rubens and two by Sir Joshua Reynolds amongst many others), clocks, rugs, furniture, the list goes on. The rooms are expansive, typical of the era it was built in, and its easy to imagine how opulent and luxurious they would have been in their heyday. Unfortunately as the home is still privately owned, and India seems to be a little slow to cotton on to historical preservation, the house has crumbled and faded a little, and it seems these magnificent artworks and treasure run the risk of deteriorating into oblivion. Even if you are only in Kolkata for just a day, you must visit this place. If for no other reason that you will never see photos of the inside.

The Victoria Memorial is another tribute to the British Empire. Built as a memorial to Queen Victoria, it now houses a museum with a collection of memorabilia of Queen Victoria, the British monarchy, and their presence in India. I visited the memorial on both visits to Kolkata, but did not go inside either visit. The building is impressive, and the gardens a nice location for a walk away from the hustle and bustle of Kolkata's streets.

If you are particularly interested in the history of Britain in India, and the founding of the East India Company, or you're a fan of colonial architecture then I would recommend a walk around the old city. Around BBD Bag you'll find the old GPO, St Andrews Church, Job Charnock's Tomb (he was the original British founder of what is now know as Kolkata), the Writer's Building, and many many more.

The Mallick Ghat Flower market is a one of the largest in Asia and a great way to see a whole lot of colour in a short space of time. But then, its not like India is short on colour...The market is just under the Howrah bridge and worth a look (see photos below.

If you're a bookworm like we are, then make the most of Kolkata's entrenched literary history and take a walk along College street which is lined with book vendors selling all manor of titles. I had read rumours that first editions could be picked up at a very low cost, but the day we were there it was mostly text books for university students. I did pick up a copy of an early 20th century book on Indian architecture and home design, titled "Modern Ideal Homes for India". Houses cost as little as $14,000 Rupees at the time of publishing...(equivalent to USD$310!). If you have the time, pop into the Ashutosh Museum, housed nearby within the grounds of Calcutta University, it specialises in East Indian Art. Unfortunately it was closed the day we tried to visit, along with the India Museum. I've heard that both are worth a visit.

As for shopaholics, you can get your fix at New Market, located directly behind the Oberoi Grand Hotel. A wide range of goods on sale, and lots of people watching to be done - its worth a wander around. And, if you're game, there is plenty of street food on offer (very delicious, we sample two different local dishes), and if you can find a Chai Wallah a delicious Masala chai will set you back as little as 3 rupees (about USD 6 cents) and that includes the hand turned ceramic cup its served in! They're normally discarded on the street, but we kept ours as souvenirs.

Kolkata's flower market - one of the largest in Asia

Eating: Apart from the street food - which I wouldn't normally recommend but we were feeling brave on our last day and had good experiences - there are a few other good local eateries.

Oh Calcutta! is hidden away in a mall but has a great range of traditional West Bengali dishes (typically more fish and less spicy than food from other regions of India). If you want something local style this is my recommendation. Otherwise, check the Taj and Oberoi in-house restaurants. I ate at "Baan Thai" the last time I was in town and the food was excellent.

Thanks for indulging me with my ongoing travelogue...back to normal programming soon!

Udaipur - the Venice of the East

2011-05-23T11:33:00.018+08:00

The Taj Lake Palace, otherwise known as Jag Niwas

Udaipur is honestly one of the most beautiful places I've ever been, anywhere in the world. Its a stunning location - lakes dotted with old royal palaces, surrounded by more palaces and the picturesque Araveli hills. Its not hard to see why Udaipur is known as the Venice of the East. We stayed here for 4 days which was enough to see the sights and spend some quality time by the pool (and oh what a pool), but I feel like I definitely want to go back. Here are a few of my tips:

Sleeping: We stayed at the Taj Lake Palace Hotel, the iconic palace in the middle of Lake Pichola (seen above) that was also the backdrop to the very cheesy James Bond film Octopussy. The Taj (otherwise known as Jag Niwas) was formerly the Maharana of Udaipur's summer residence. If you are looking for a romantic getaway, this is definitely your best bet. I think I mentioned in a previous post we were travelling off peak and were luckily upgraded once again to a suite that overlooked the other palace on Lake Pichola, Jag Mandir. The view from our room was amazing, and the sun setting behind the City Palace each night was so beautiful and felt like a private show just for us. It would be very easy to spend the entire time in Udaipur in this hotel, especially seeing as its the top tourist attraction listed in quite a few guidebooks. The view from the pool alone is enough, add to that the spa facilities and two restaurants (with a performance each night, plus a heritage walk of the hotel AND a boat tour around the lakes)...I seriously did consider not stepping foot off the hotel island...

Eating: If you are staying at the Taj then look no further than the two in house restaurants. The Indian speciality restaurant has a fantastic range of local Rajasthan cuisine with some great dishes we'd never tried before. Or, if you want something more international the All Day Dining restaurant - which also happens to have an amazing view over the lake - has a pretty good menu to select from.

We dined one evening at the Sunset Terrace in the Fateh Prakesh Palace Hotel, within the City Palace. The view at night of the sun setting behind the hills behind the lake and both palaces is unparalleled. Shame the food is not much to rave about, but its reasonably priced, and the view alone may just be worth it.

Shopping: Within the City Palace complex are some cute local shops and a few more upscale boutiques. One of the later is Aashka, the brainchild of Princess Bhargavi Kumari Mewar - the elder daughter of Udaipur's Maharana. Aashka stocks a range of clothing, furniture, homewares, jewellery and other accessories. The jewellery was what caught my eye, in particular the Amrapali and En Inde designs. Both lines are stocked elsewhere so check out their websites for other stockists. I walked away with a lovely necklace from en inde, and am very much looking forward to them adding more images to their website. Opposite the Aashka boutique was another Anokhi store. A little smaller than their boutique in Jaipur, but definitely worth a look.

If you are after more of a local shopping experience then head straight through the City Palace complex towards the Jagdish Temple and you'll find you're in another world. My new friend Mukesh of Marco Polo Collection can help you out if you're looking for Pashmina or silk scarves (his shop is on the left, just past all the Auto rickshaw drivers trying to sell everyone drugs..) If you keep walking you'll happen upon the Clock Tower, and turning right will lead to you one of the main market streets - Bara Bazaar. If you keep going down Bara Bazaar you'll eventually find the other main market street - Bapu Bazaar. Here you'll find a mix of fabrics, jewellery, spices, tea, more scarves and pashminas and a treasure trove of other goodies.

Sight seeing: Like I said, the Taj Hotel (otherwise known as Jag Niwas, or the Summer palace) is definitely high up on the list of places to see in Udaipur, so if you're not staying here you definitely need to take a trip across for a meal or just for a sticky beak, because it truly is beautiful. Jag Mandir, the other palace on Lake Pichola is still currently owned by the Maharana of Udaipur but is apparently set to be handed over to the Taj group, so no doubt this will end up being another luxury hotel. Maybe I'll have to stay there next time....

Other than the two lake palaces, the City Palace is the main attraction in town. The large complex of buildings that has been added to over time by each successive Maharana is so large it now houses the current residence of the Maharana, not one but TWO luxury hotels AND a museum. Seriously impressive.

There are other former palaces, haveli's and other grand structures around to visit, but the only other one we made the trip to was the Monsoon Palace, otherwise known as Sajjan Garh Palace. The Monsoon palace was built on a large hilltop overlooking lake Pichola and the surrounding Araveli hills as an escape for the Maharana during the monsoon season. Sadly it was never finished and has remained in an abandoned state since 1884. I couldn't help but hope that someone cashed up would buy it and restore it to the glory it once could have been. Luckily though, despite its abandoned state, the site is still a fantastic location for sunrise and sunset and is open to all to view from the terrace. We make the trip up for sunset and were not disappointed.

All in all I'm not sure I can say enough good things about Udaipur. Its a beautiful, quiet and laid back town with lots of culture, history and great food to be enjoyed. I am planning my next trip in my head already!

The view from the Monsoon Palace in Udaipur

Stay tuned for the final installment....Calcutta!

Agra and the Pink City

2011-05-18T20:28:00.034+08:00

We could have chosen to take the train from Delhi to Agra, which would have been faster and hassle free, but as we were travelling with friends and had a few more trips to do, we hired a car with a driver. This way were were able to sit back, listen to some tunes and enjoy the ride! The drive from Delhi to Agra should normally take 3-4 hours, but I think a lot of that is just getting out of the city. So my recommendation is to LEAVE EARLY! The well worn paths between Delhi, Agra and Jaipur are known as the 'Golden Triangle' - so you can imagine its a fairly well travelled road with a constant stream of traffic...

We left Delhi around 10am and arrived in Agra just in time to settle into our hotel before heading out to watch sundown at the Taj Mahal. It was a very exciting first glimpse of what we'd been looking forward to for days. While our friends headed out again late the next morning, my husband and I decided to get up at 5am to watch the sun rise. I am not really much of a morning person and had to be seriously talked into getting up at such a crazy hour, but it was well worth it. We were the first people inside the gate and managed to get some fantastic photos. Better still, we could wander around and enjoy the ambiance without having to share it with a million other tourists (oh, and it was also much cooler at that hour too!).

The Taj Mahal, of course

But, lest you think that Agra is only about the Taj Mahal...do not be fooled so easily. Agra is also home to a very grand Fort - the Agra Fort, of course. And not too far out of town, a great stop-off on the way to Jaipur if you're heading that way is Fatehpur Sikri.

We stayed at the Oberoi in Agra, definitely the best hotel in town and the closest to the Taj (and all the rooms have a view of the Taj!) The hotel is exquisite, staff and the service were impeccable, pool dreamy and the food in the restaurant amazing. I cannot speak more highly of it.

Next stop: Jaipur (the Pink City)

the "Hawa Mahal" or Wind Palace in Jaipur

Jaipur, being the capital of Rajasthan, is a little bit hectic, but if you are staying in a good hotel (with a pool is a must!) you will be able to balance the crazy with the calm....

Sleeping: We stayed at the Samode Haveli. The Samode group of hotels is a smaller more boutique chain, but still with great service. The Haveli (the word for a private home, generally with some sort of internal courtyard) is on the outskirts of the city, right between the old city and Amber, home to the Amber Fort. In other words, its a great position. Its a little faded around the edges, but still very chic. This place came recommended by several guidebooks, and the NY designer Muriel Brandolini via her website, so I knew it must be good. And I guess Jade Jagger thought so too as she was there lounging by the pool most days during our stay. We were lucky enough to be travelling during the off-peak season and were upgraded (twice!) to a huge suite. I was a very happy girl indeed. Aside from this, the restaurant serves fantastic local and international cuisine inside the ornately decorated restaurant, or outside in the lovely courtyard. The pool cooled us down every afternoon, and the sweet lime sodas served were sooo addictive. In fact I'm salivating now as I think about it.

The other "it" hotels in town are the Oberoi, nestled on top of a cliff on the other side of town, where it was rumoured Liz Hurley and Aussie ex-cricketer Shane Warne were bunkered down. Aside from this, and more centrally located are the three, yes three, Taj Hotels in town. All of which are still owned by the Maharaja of Jaipur and his forefather's previous residences. I can personally vouch for the Taj Rambagh Palace as we had lunch there one day during our stay. Probably more of a dinner experience, but it certainly was nice to see the grounds during daylight, with the polo field etc.

Eating:
Aside from the hotel restaurant and the restaurant at the Taj Hotel, I have a few recommendations.

On our first night we ate at Mosaics Guesthouse, a guidebook recommendation. A bit of a drive out of town, a little further out past the Amber Fort, you'll find Mosaics Guesthouse, run by local French mosaic artist (hence the name). Some international cuisine is served, but needs to be booked in advance, otherwise its a set menu of whatever the chef has prepared. The night we were there we were alone on the rooftop terrace, and were served far too much food for us to finish. Mutton, Dahl, Rice, Naan, Salad plus more that I've forgotten AND dessert...it was truly amazing, very flavoursome and very very fresh. One catch is they only take cash, but then you'll need a bit on you for the auto rickshaw ride as the road are not great for cars. The night we were there we saw two elephants amble past.

Another guidebook recommendation we tried was Cafe Kooba. The food was nothing to write home about (although clearly okay to blog about), not bad, but not as good as some of the meals we'd had. The selling point is the rooftop, where we at our dinner watching the IPL cricket match that was on TV, and just enjoyed eating outside.

In terms of lunching, you can't really go past Anokhi. Also recommended by the guide book, its a great way to spend some time eating, and then shopping when you're done - it's located right next door to the Anokhi Shop (see my notes below on shopping). Anokhi has been around for a while and has a bit of a cult following. Run by an Aussie girl, using mostly organic local produce, the food is a bit more international in style so a good place to go if you're getting tired of curry.

Sightseeing:
The Amber Fort is a must see - I won't post photos and do it an injustice. Just know that it is one of the most spectacular monuments I've ever seen. Mirrored mosaic ceilings. Enough said.

The City Palace, the current residence of the Majaraja of Jaipur, is also jaw dropping and a must see. We went to the Government Central Museum, otherwise known as Albert Hall, and its worth going just to see the building alone. Housed inside is a collection of ceramics, paintings, textiles and other crafts from all over Rajasthan.

The Jal Mahal, or "Water Palace" we saw, but did not go in as it is modelled on the Lake Palace hotel we stayed at in Udaipur, but more on that in my next post.

On our last night in Jaipur we did an Elephant safari through Dera Amer, which was definitely one of the highlights of our trip. Arriving just before sun down we met our elephant, painted her trunk, then promptly boarded before a walk through the Araveli hills as the sun went down. The path was torch lit and we made a brief stop for a G&T before heading back to base camp for dinner. Another fabulous meal. While we ate we watched a game of night time Elephant polo and had the chance to join in or ride a camel. An absolutely surreal experience.

Most of the sights to be seen are in Jaipur's old city which is a dark pink (hence the name the Pink City), including the "Jawa Mahal", or Wind Palace. Walking the markets etc are a fabulous way to understand the local culture....which brings me to....

Shopping:
I've saved the best til last. Jaipur is a shoppers paradise. Ceramics, jewellery, textiles, spices, cooking utensils, clothes, scarves, shoes, you name it, Jaipur has got it. In spades.

Apart from the fantastic markets, which are along most of the main roads in the centre of the old city (see image below), there are many, many fantastic places to shop in Jaipur. My favorites were:

Hot Pink - has two shops in town, one inside the walls of Amber Fort, and the other larger store within the Narain Niwas Palace hotel. Started by two French designers this shop stocks a range of their own designs and locally produced garments, accessories and home wares. Lots of colour, especially pink (as the name suggests), you could definitely blow some cash in this place. Check out their website for their own recommendations on all things Jaipur.

Anokhi - has been producing traditional wood-block prints for over 40 years. Anokhi has played an active role in the revival of skills involved in this local tradition. There are stores all over India, so check out their website for other locations. The store in Jaipur has a great range of clothing for adults and children, as well as cotton bedding and other homewares. Jaipur is also home to the Anokhi museum, which I might have to pay a visit to on my next trip.

Soma - also stocks a wide range of traditional block-printed cotton bedding, homeewares and clothing, lots of colours to chose from too. These guys also have several shops around India, so check out their website if you're interested.

So, what is this guidebook I've mentioned over and over? Make sure you get your hands on a copy of the "Love Jaipur, Rajasthan" book if you're heading this way, it was definitely the best range of recommendations we've found. We picked ours up in Delhi, but they are available all over (check their websites for retailers). The Love Travel Guides are written by another Australian, Fiona Caulfield. There are a few more in the series, only Indian cities for now, so if you're heading here check them out. We found ours invaluable, and our friend who moved to Delhi has found the guidebook on her new home city very useful.

Coming up next: Udaipur & Kolkata...

(first image: the sunrise at the Taj Mahal, Agra)

Incredible India

2011-05-14T16:00:00.000+08:00

What can I possibly say about India that hasn't already been said? Probably not much I'm guessing. Home to over a billion people of diverse religions, cultures, speaking many languages and living in landscapes from lush tropical coasts to dry arid desert. India. Its sublime and its ridiculous, all in one. And I loved it.

We started our trip in New Delhi where we stayed with old friends, and made some new ones. From there we travelled by car with other friends to Agra and then to Jaipur. On our own from there, my husband and I made our way further south in the state of Rajasthan to the picturesque town of Udaipur, making another new friend on the way. Then, back to New Delhi for a night before hopping on a plane over to Kolkata (Calcutta).

I have a few travel tips and recommendations we garnered in our very short visit that I will share with you over a few installments. First, New Delhi...

Eating:
We had dinner on our first night in town at Bukhara, in the Sheraton Hotel. This place is a bit of an institution amongst the upper echelons of locals and international visitors (we saw Sania Mirza there - highest ranked Indian female tennis player ever). Prices are high if you are comparing them to other local eateries, but quite reasonable if you compare them to back home. The food (North India style) is fantastic.

Our last night in town we ate at a great little place called Gunpowder. Quite the opposite of Bukhara in all ways (its from the South of India, but still fantastic). A much more chilled and local vibe with outdoor seating, and a bit less punishing on your wallet. We ate outside with new friends and sampled a lot of new to us dishes, all of which were great. Located in the charming Hauz Khas village that we had already fallen in love with the day before on a shopping expedition. Definitely worth the visit.

Sight seeing:
I got the impression there are a lot more sights to be seen in New Delhi than people give it credit for. We did a bit, but to be honest we were quite content relaxing by the pool and catching up with our friends too. What we did see we loved, including the Red Fort (below), Rashtrapati Bhavan and the India Gate, the gardens - we didn't make it to Lodi but did enjoy a wonderful free concert in Nehru Park on our last night (Thanks Brian & Puru!). In and around Connaught Place, the centre of the British capital is quite interesting too, unfortunately we left quite a bit unexplored. I felt that there were many layers to Delhi that needed to be peeled back to reveal the true city, though it felt like we only partly peeled back the first one. Needless to say, I would love to go back.

Shopping:
We didn't get as much shopping done as we could have in the total of 4 days we were in town, but from what I gathered, there is a lot that could be done. Where I did shop:

Hauz Khas Village. A really charming part of town that was a little off the usual tourist beaten track. Filled with great shops, galleries and cafes (see my notes on Gunpowder in the eating section). My recommendations are Lola's World - french designed and locally made clothes, kids stuff and homewares. Nappa Dori - beautiful leather goods (which kinda took me by surprise considering its India), and hand made luggage. Ogaan - a great range of contemporary Indian designed clothing and homewares, a real treasure trove. Two other galleries took my eye, although I forgot to take a card, with lots of great contemporary art that I would have happily brought back with me had I the space in my suitcase (and my walls at home).

Lodi Colony Market. I didn't make it here, but my trusty guidebooks told me there are quite a few nifty looking shops in this area, which might just have to wait til I get back next time.

Other outstanding shops to note were Viya Home, whose name might sound familiar because of their recent collaboration with US based Odegard. Famous for their outstanding metal work, the Viya Home store in Delhi is a little out of the centre of town but I felt was worth the trip. The two-level store is lovely and would be hard to leave without taking something with you.

Its hard to leave India without having done some shopping somewhere in the city, and the airport is certainly no less tempting. Kimaya has an outlet in the international departure hall and sells contemporary clothing and accessories from over 100 Indian designers. I did a little damage to my credit card here...

Sleeping:
We stayed with friends for the first 3 nights of our trip, but then the overnight stay before Kolkata was at the Aman, which in one word is: Amazing. Created from an existing hotel and designed by Australian architect Kerry Hill, the Aman in New Delhi (below) is just a bit of a modern masterpiece. Only 31 rooms and 8 suites, all of which have their own plunge pool (!)....no, that was not a typo. The Aman in New Delhi is a great example of modern Asian style, my only criticism of the design was that it might have been a bit too generic and felt as though it could have been located in almost any of the large Asian cities. (Oh, and the shower heads were a bit too small for my liking!). Apart from that, great. Great service, beautifully designed hotel, two wonderful restaurants to choose from (although we ate at the Tapas bar twice while we were in town....best Tapas outside of Spain!), fantastic local contemporary art on display, a wide range of spa services, and lovely serene rooms. We actually didn't leave ours for the day/night we were there. Being picked up from the train station in one of the hotels fleet of steely grey iconic Ambassadors was definitely a great first impression! The hotel is also quite conveniently located, not far from the lovely Lodi Gardens, India Gate and Humayun’s Tomb.

The only other hotel in town I would vouch for is The Imperial. We had lunch there with our friends one day and it is really lovely. The total opposite of the Aman in every way, and if you prefer to stay in a more period style accommodation then this is right up your alley. The food was great, and our friend mentioned over lunch that he stayed here quite a bit on business trips before moving over and he liked it so much it became his office away from the office (not a bad place to meet with clients I guess!).

Stay tuned, the next installment will be tips on Agra and Jaipur...

(first image: Lutyens designed iron gates at the entrance of Rashtrapati Bhavan, the Indian President's residence in New Delhi)

I'll be back....

2011-04-21T08:30:00.000+08:00

My passage to India begins tomorrow....I'll be gone for 2 weeks and probably won't be posting during that time...but I hope to update you with lots of photos and travel recommendations when I return.

Andre Fu for Tai Ping

2011-04-18T08:27:00.001+08:00

I was very excited when I heard that luxury carpet maker Tai Ping had teamed up with local HK designer, Andre Fu (designer of much lauded The Upper House) to create an extensive new hand-made rug collection.

Fu’s carpets for Tai Ping display a sensitivity that remains true to his trademark design language. He describes the sumptuous new collection as ‘A re-invention of the long-established artisanship of Tai Ping’s heritage — a modern collection that is calming and sophisticated, yet highly emotional and sensuous.” Fu took inspirations from an in-depth visit he took to Tai Ping’s mill – an experience that journeyed Fu to understand Tai Ping Carpets’ intricate craftsmanship and established history. Fu amalgamates such an array of complex techniques with his design sensitivity to create his collection of surprising textures. Rooted in this deep appreciation for Tai Ping artisanship, heritage and fashion, and imbued with subtle references to traditional tweed, the resulting Andre Fu Collection bridges modern Asian luxury in a sophisticated line of “textiles for the floor.”

Using only the most luxurious fibres — wool, silk, cashmere — with accent threads such as cotton, lurex and flax, the collection combines pile heights, and yarn thicknesses with highly complex hand-tufting techniques to create a collection that is the rug equivalent to haute couture: lush, timeless, and evocative.

The seven designs developed by Fu for Tai Ping come in twenty-eight colour variations executed in soft hues and subtle colour tones that evoke the sensitivities of modern China. To complement the collection’s tweeds, dense silk pile rugs were conceived with original brush-stroke motifs inspired by Chinese calligraphy. This sensuous and poetic second line in the collection is even more velvety soft and composed of wool, cashmere, and delicate silk in subtle graduated tones of dusty plum, green teas, mustard yellow, mauve grey and mineral blue.

I don't know about you, but I think I'm in love...

Weft IV

Flagstone

Douce

Aerial

Luster

Cheviot

Intersection

Cheviot

Gabrielle

Aerial III

Cheviot

Gabrielle

All photos care of Tai Ping carpets

The House Hotel

2011-04-11T15:47:00.031+08:00

Another cool looking hotel in Turkey that has recently opened is The House Hotel in the Nişantaşi district of Istanbul. Designed by more Turkish talent - Seyhan Özdemir and Sefer Çaglar of Autoban. You may already be familiar with their furniture and lighting collection available through De La Espada, however the dynamic duo has been very busy designing some very stylish interiors, including the 208 restaurant on Hollywood Road in Hong Kong.

I think this might also be on my accommodation wish list when I finally get to Istanbul...what do you think?

Edition Hotels - Istanbul

2011-04-06T20:49:00.020+08:00

One of the cool new hotels I mentioned in my previous post is the newly opened Edition Hotel in Istanbul, designed by Gabbellini Sheppard & Associates (with the spa designed by Hirsch Bedner & Associates). The second project in the brand new Marriott/Schraeger portfolio (see my previous post on the Waikiki Edition), the Istanbul Edition is contemporary luxe hotel design at its best.

The lobby and public spaces are a breathtaking symphony of natural materials: different textured and organically veined stones perfectly offset the diamond-matched timber veneers.

"Espa”, the in-house spa is just stunning. It looks incredibly calming, and I love the combination of marble and bronze – a material I feel is very under used in interiors. The combination of geometric forms and timber inlays also helps to remind you where you are.

But, its the Guestrooms I’ve fallen for. Big time. I think I will definitely have to stay here if and when I get to Istanbul. Cocooned in either light or walnut timbers they look very restful.

With a few more hotels set to open in the near future (including Bangkok, a little closer to me) it seems Edition could be on a bit of a roll. I just hope they keep me in mind if they ever want to open a hotel in Hong Kong ;)

Turkish Delight

2011-03-31T20:21:00.006+08:00

I think I've caught the travel bug. Either that, or its my up coming trip to India that has me constantly daydreaming of far off exotic and quixotic places. Turkey has been high on my go to list since it didn't quite make it on the itinerary of our European expedition a few years back. Needless to say I was excited to see these images land in my inbox of the work of Turkish designer, Deniz Tunç. Based in Istanbul, Tunç designs products and interiors that are modern and elegant and infused with a little bit of ottoman flair. This is just a small selection of the products and interiors she has designed. If you want to see more, head over to her website...

After a host of very cool hotels have opened in Istanbul and Antony Todd has an outpost there, I think I need to get myself there post haste!

Lily + Bloom

2011-03-17T08:31:00.021+08:00

I had the pleasure just last week of dining with a good friend and my hubby at the fairly new restaurant / bar Lily + Bloom. The designers, New York based firm AvroKO, have filled the space with lots of quirky details, including a private humidor behind a secret door, and a private smoking room (the "Blind Pig" room, see last image) that's also hidden, behind not just one, but two hidden doors! A short guided tour by the Manager of the establishment revealed many other details, and little surprises (including the bathrooms, but you need to go see them yourself!)...so if you're in the neighbourhood and haven't already, go check it out!

Oh, and the food, service and cocktails aren't bad either...

Bisazza Bagno

2011-03-14T21:01:00.000+08:00

Word on the street is world-renowned Italian house of mosaics, Bisazza, has just launched a new division - Bisazza Bagno. Teaming up with Jaime Hayon - everyone's favorite Spanish designer du jour - for their first collection, the new division will be dedicated to providing a complete offering of bathroom products.

Bisazza Bango says the decision to work with Jaime Hayon on the design of the first Bisazza Bagno collection was based on their common design aesthetic and stylistic values.

Hayon says of the idea behind the premiere bathroom collection: "The collection recalls the glamour of the 1930s with a Scandinavian touch and feminine shapes. Elegance is the main trait of this innovative collection. The bathroom is the most important room in the home and it should not be hidden. With this collection, it becomes an area you want to show, a place you can keep open. The bathroom becomes a stylish room, full of charm and style, with a strong identity.”

According to Bisazza Bagno, we can expect to see more collaborations with some equally talented and high-profile designers in the near future. I don't know about you, but I can't wait to see what they come up with!

I love the lightness and the sensuality of the designs...a nice change from the usual bathroom offerings. The white and chrome combos are pretty classic and easy to use, however its the black and copper that I'm coveting. What do you guys think?

All photos care of Bisazza Bagno

Just in time for Spring!

2011-03-07T20:39:00.002+08:00

One of my favorite furniture designers, Romeo Sozzi - founder of the Italian Promemoria line, has just launched an outdoor collection. Oh how I wish I had a rooftop now!

The Green Tales collection was inspired by Lake Como and the surrounding mountains of Sozzi's home, Lecco, in Northern Italy. Designed to be used both indoor and out, each piece is made with the same level of craftsmanship as Promemoria's indoor collections. Using the same luxurious materials: wood, bronze, marble and rattan, the collection definitely does not look like any other outdoor range I've ever seen.

In addition to being incredibly chic, its also about to be incredibly Eco friendly. Promemoria is in the process of having all the timber used FSC certified, meaning it will come from sustainably harvested timbers. It also means it will count towards points for LEED certifcation. What more could you want?

The seriously stunning Belvedere Chaise. I want one. Or even better, two. Bronze and wood, my favorite combination.

The Menaggio loungers. The Twin size is a great option.

Varenna Chair & Ottoman

Moltrasio Sofa. Yum.

various Lierna marble tables. Seriously cool for inside or out. imagine one next to a free-standing marble bath!

And last, but not least, the Erasmo table.

All images care of Promemoria

Spicers Balfour Hotel

2011-03-02T12:06:00.020+08:00

Inner city Brisbane (capital city of Australia's northern most state, Queensland) may not be the first on the list of your must see getaway destinations, especially after the recent floods. However, if you are headed to there for a business trip, or in Australia and looking for a weekend away that will help the local economy I'd stay at the new Spicers Balfour Hotel in New Farm.

Just minutes from the CBD of Brisbane, this nine-room boutique hotel has something to offer every kind of traveller. The design of the hotel and colour palette employed throughout is not typical of tropical Queensland, which I kinda like. The hotel is appropriately urban and looks to me like it would feel more like staying in a very chic friends city pad. Each room has a 50" TV, Bose i-pod docking stations and a great mix of antique and modern furnishings. The rooftop bar is definitely a strong selling point, but its the Library that had me at hello. I wonder if this is where the nightly canapés are served?

Fantastically located within walking distance of the shopping district, art galleries and local gastronomy...I'll definitely be staying here next time I'm in Brizzy.

The welcoming reception / check-in area

Great views of Brisbane city from the rooftop bar

The lovely looking library - very chic and cosy!

Another view of the library - I love the mix of colours in here

All day dining area

The meeting rooms - very chic

A view of a Balcony room

One of the Courtyard Rooms

All photos care of Spicers Group

Caste Design

2011-02-26T09:17:00.001+08:00

Remember I did a post a little while back about some fabulous tables I had discovered by Chicago based designers Caste? If you loved them as much as I do then we're all in for a treat. In addition to their handmade one of a kind collection they are now working on a more complete range of furniture and lighting which will be available in the US through the Holly Hunt showrooms. The first sofa and lounge chairs are currently in prototyping for production later this year. These are a few of my personal favorites...

In addition to the expanded line, Caste are also now offering interior design services. Co-founder Brad Rowley says "We are very excited about this new business and are looking forward to having the opportunity to share a more complete Caste sensibility with clients by crafting beautiful and refined interior spaces in their homes". Very exciting indeed. I can't wait to see see project photos!

Photography by Michelle Litvin, care of Caste Design

Paule Ka

2011-02-23T08:42:00.003+08:00

I don't do fashion posts often, purely because I don't profess to be an expert on the subject. However after discovering the new Spring collection by French designer Paule Ka, I just couldn't help but post them. Classic yet Modern, Fun yet Sophisticated, and so very, very French. I'm in love. Bring on Spring!

The Green Leaf Niseko

2011-02-20T08:32:00.053+08:00

Hong Kongers have endured the coldest January since 1977, and a pretty darn chilly February too! I can't complain too much though, I know there are much colder places in the world. So I'm thinking if you can't escape the cold and get to somewhere exotic like Waikiki, then embrace it and go to the snow!

Niseko village is a few hours out of Sapporo in the Northern most island of Japan, Hokkaido. A place famous for beer, crab and skiing, and a favorite haunt for some of my friends. I never did make it to Hokkaido when I lived in Japan, but I might just need to organise a trip soon....and The Green Leaf resort may just be the place to say.

Newly designed by Alexandra Champalimaud and her team, The Green Leaf in Niseko, a 200-room ski-in, ski-out resort has unobstructed views of nearby Mt Yotei. The resort has been designed in a style which incorporate traditional elements of European mountain lodges with touches of Japanese style and local art.

One of the great things about Niseko is that its just as beautiful all year round, with plenty to do when its not of ski season. Even during ski season at The Green Leaf there is plenty to do for non-skiers (such as myself), the natural onsen and spa look like a great place to stay warm and still enjoy the views.

What am I waiting for..?

Exterior - beautiful both at night and during the day

Looks like a nice place to sit around with some warm Sake I think...

The traditional onsen. trust me, there is nothing better on a cold day, and such an authentic Japanese experience

Above 3 images are the "Tomioka" Lounge

Above two images of the "Goshiki" Bar (check out the stunning views!)

Suite Bedroom

Suite Living Room

King Room

Twin Room

All photographs taken by Aaron Jamieson,
care of Champalimaud Design

winter warmers

2011-02-15T08:32:00.003+08:00

Maybe its winter and the thought of staying at home with my cats on days like these, or maybe its a shift in my tastes. Either way I seem to be drawn more often than not these days to rooms with warm plummy colours. I was never a fan of purples really, but I certainly seem to be now. It pairs perfectly with chocolates, blueberries and mushrooms. I don't know if I'd paint the whole house this colour, but definitely my bedroom or a small reading room. What do you think?

Larsen Fabrics

Dining room of designer Marcelo Lucini

by S. Russell Groves

Romeo Sozzi's apartment in Rome

a living room by Martin Brudnizki

a living room by Laura Kirar

one of my all times favorites, by Jacques Grange

from an article on 1st Dibs about on Fort Street Studio

Donghia

bedroom by Candy& Candy

unknown source

by D'Apostrophe Design

the Waikiki Edition

2011-02-10T08:04:00.000+08:00

Even Hong Kong's mild winter has had me dreaming of far off places that are much warmer...of beaches and the smell of sand, surf and sunscreen. As I have no beach holiday planned in the near future I'll just have to make do with these images of the new Yabu Pushelberg designed EDITION hotel in Waikiki.

EDITION hotels, the latest brand in the Marriott portfolio, is the brainchild of Mr Marriott himself and Ian Schrager, the entertainment and hospitality pioneer. The Waikiki Edition is the first (Istanbul is set to open early this year) of possibly 100 lifestyle hotels to be located in "24 hr gateway cities" around the world.

Chosen for their clean and simple aesthetic, Yabu Pushelberg looked to their own personal residences for inspiration when deciding on the design direction for the 353-room hotel, which lends an intimate, relaxed and ‘un-designed’ feel but with a sophisticated edge.

In keeping with the less is more concept, the firm opted for a fresh and airy design plan, a refined nod to 1960s Hawaiian nostalgia. All public spaces, guest rooms and even outdoor areas offer guests a beachy, eclectic, and effortless environment, which ties in well with the structure’s simple architecture. Upon arrival, guests are greeted with an intimate, low-ceiling lobby, where whitewashed woods, charcoal black floors, white and oatmeal furnishings, and natural fabrics like the massive woven rope rug are combined in direct contrast to the lush surrounding greenery. Key design features in this space include a massive sculptural carved-wood reception desk, which is mirrored by a similar carved lobby bar. An oversized pivoting bookshelf divides the reception area from the lobby bar and is similarly equipped with an eclectic mix of relaxed, neutral furnishings. Oh, and the surfboard sculptural installation behind the reception desk is pretty fun too.

Upstairs, the neutral color palette continues. Breezy guest rooms are done in crisp whites and oatmeals and are accented by massive teak louvered window panels and carpeted floors in natural shades. Tufted headboards and chaise lounges add a soft sexiness to the space, as do the clean white bedding choices. Fresh spa-like bathrooms were constructed with cast Terrazzo sinks, floor-to-ceiling off-white subway tiles, and teak louvers that divide this area from the bedroom. To die for, right?

Another amazing feature of the hotel are the two spectacular pool decks. The main pool deck, located on the second floor and looking out over the harbor, features Ipe wood decking with an upscale pool bar tucked off to the side. A series of planters have been implemented to create a shaded canopy alongside the pool deck. Just above the main deck is the upper pool deck, which doubles as the VIP pool area. Here the round central pool is surrounded by sand and palm trees, as is the more casual poolside bar. Beach mats with oversized cushions and low-slung sun loungers, all done in a neutral palette, make for an inviting poolside environment in both areas.

*SIGH* I'll just add this to my ever growing list of destinations on my "must see" list....

All photographs taken by Evan Dion

Philippe Hiquily

2011-02-06T08:30:00.002+08:00

This limited edition iconic beaten brass chair by French artist Philippe Hiquily has been on the top of my wish list for some time now. It also comes in chrome, with either a metal or lucite base, but I definitely am coveting the brass. More sculpture than furniture I'd say, but I love it nonetheless. And apparently I'm not alone in my lusting for this chair, in fact it seems I'm in good company...

As seen above in the home of Yves Gastou, who happens to represent Hiquily in his Paris Gallery, and below, several incarnations of the chair on display at Galerie Yves Gastou.

Above, in an anonymous home featured in the Spanish Architectural Digest...

Above, the iconic chair on display in the Paris home of Marco Scarani and Jamie Creel, photographed by Roger Davies for Elle Decor.

Above, Kelly Wearstler poses on her Hiquily chair, and seen below in her living room of her new L.A. home.

The chair is available through Gastou's galerie in Paris, or 1st Dibs and Ralph Pucci in the US. Unfortunately the limited edition chair comes with a limited edition price tag. I think this one might stay on the wish list for quite some time.

Mr Catroux's chicness

2011-01-30T15:25:00.004+08:00

One of my favorite parts of "Living in Style Paris" was getting to see more of the work of legendary designer François Catroux. It was such a treat for me mostly because he doesn't have a website with a portfolio for me to sate my visual cravings on a regular basis.

Even a google search does not return much...not much more than what I have already posted on the stylish man of internet mystery (do other bloggers experience that too? its very frustrating...)

I did come across this lovely home a while ago (can't for the life of me remember where, so sorry there will be no credit unless someone out there can assist in that department)...and it quietly whispers Catroux style in abundance.

From what I have seen of his work, Catroux uses neutrals like a master and makes a "beige" room seem warm, rich and inviting. These are no exception. He's also a virtuoso at mixing modern and vintage. The work of one of my faves Hervé van der Straeton seems to be also a favorite of Monsieur Catroux and his clients as I noticed a few of his pieces in this apartment.

I'm particularly enamoured with the walls of the study...

...so what does everyone else think?

What I've been reading

2011-01-23T15:59:00.000+08:00

I figured my last post was a nice way to segue to a post about the books I've been reading and pouring over lately...

Living in Style Paris, edited by Caroline Sarkozy, and published by teNeues is an absolute feast for the eyes. Anyone who even remotely likes French style will love this book. So many beautiful photographs of interiors and private residences of likes of Hervé van der Straeton, Diane von Furstenberg and Lenny Kravitz, designed by the masters of the trade: Francois Catroux, Pierre Passebon, Jacques Grange, Yves Gastou, Alberto Pinto, Collett-Zarzycki, David Mlinaric, Hubert Le Gall and more. The book displays a wide range of decorating styles, all of which are stunningly beautiful. I will definitely go back to this one time and again, and cannot recommend it highly enough.

I picked up a copy of "Anti-Object" by Japanese architect Kengo Kuma, published by the Architectural Association of London, at the Business of Design week late last year. Japan being the partner country of the year, Kuma was one of the headline speakers. If you couldn't make it then don't fret, his talk was based on this book, so pick up a copy if you can. The size and thickness of this "little" book is by no means representative of the amount of information inside. The first chapter alone is guaranteed to blow the cobwebs away as Kuma gets very philosophical and quotes Kant. If that's not for you, but Kuma's architecture is, then you will enjoy the subsequent chapters which give an in-depth insight into how Kuma approaches each project and his source of inspiration and concept development. I enjoyed reading this book so much I am hoping to pick up a few more in this series, particularly "Super-Critical" by Rem Koolhaas and Peter Eisenman.

And last, but not least, is the "Geography of Nowhere" by James Howard Kunstler. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this as I've been on a bit of an Urban Design bent lately (perhaps its because of the city I'm living in). This book is a much needed self-critical examination of the way that 20th century cities were designed, and the way they will continue to be designed if we don't all take a hard look at what's wrong with them. Kunstler has written specifically about American cities (I guess because he is American and it was a subject close to his heart), however it is just as pertinent to all developed countries in the world. I won't say anymore on this, but I think if you are interested in Urban design and planning then this will be a good read for you.

So, what have you been reading, and do you have any recommendations for me?

The V&A Reading Rooms

2011-01-16T15:42:00.003+08:00

One of my favorite experiences of my recent London trip was visiting the V&A Museum and browsing the amazing V&A Bookshop. I wish I'd gone a little later in the year because in November the V&A Reading Rooms opened just around the corner. The range of hundreds of books on offer combine the V&A's own published works as well as an authoritative selection of tomes on subjects like fashion, design, architecture, photography, graphics and art. Out of print, vintage and early editions will also be for sale. Even more impressive than the selection is that 100% of the profits from the shop goes directly to the museum - practically guilt free shopping!

Great books are not the only thing on offer at the V&A Reading Rooms - there is a small bar providing wine and a menu of snacks developed by Sydney-born Duncan Ackery (of Tate's fame), so you can browse books while sipping a glass of vino!

And to top it all off, David Collins has advised on the interiors! The V&A Reading Rooms are situated in a small and intimate space, with all its original architectural features intact. Check out the pics below - its such a nice looking space.

The V&A Reading Rooms are located at 8 Exhibition Road London, open 12 Midday to 10pm. I wish I could head over there now!

All photos care of the V&A London.

A passage to India...

2011-01-11T08:26:00.017+08:00

I'm busily planning my own passage to India, this coming April. A two week part holiday, part work trip, starting in New Delhi to visit friends, and then travelling to Agra, Jaipur and then Udaipur before heading over to Kolkata. I'm beyond excited! All this thinking of India has reminded me of this staggeringly beautiful photo shoot by Hermès a few years back....

...to die for, right? I wouldn't mind one of those Kelly bags...

D'lightful

2011-01-05T19:20:00.022+08:00

This week I've been a little preoccupied being smitten with this Parisian apartment by Francis D'Haene of New York based firm D'Apostrophe Design. I'm loving the clean lines, the mix of art and furniture (its always about the mix) and the choice of colours. The warm walls vs the light floors is an interesting choice which I was surprised that I liked, but mixed with the dark built-in bookcases and doors is an unusual but great combination. I spy pieces by Royere, Murakami, Lalanne, Basquiat...am I missing anything?

All photos taken by Eric Laignel for Interior Design Magazine Nov 2010. Wow, 2010 - feels strange typing that already!

on Hollywood Road

2011-01-03T20:30:00.000+08:00

I think I'm as excited about the new residential development by Blake's in Hong Kong as I am about the new year!

226 Hollywood Road in the old neighbourhood Sheung Wan (just west of Central) was designed by British designer Ilse Crawford and is a refreshing change from the usual character-less high rise apartments this city usually has to offer. This development is unique in many ways - not only are the apartments of reasonable size, the entire project has been designed in a way that retains some sense of the local neighbourhoods original character. And what a neighbourhood! The building is just down the road from the fabulous Press Room (a favorite brunch spot of mine) and the new kid on the block - Duecentotto. No wonder the apartments have sold already!

Oh, and I love the bathrooms too. Grey marble and gold taps. Brilliant.

Happy 2011 to you all!

What are you doing over the holidays..?

2010-12-20T21:18:00.011+08:00

I'm going to be listening to this....

Pink Martini's latest release - Joy to the World

....drinking a glass or two (or maybe more) of this....

delicious Australian Sparkling Cabernet

and eating way too much....

Happy Holidays to you all and Happy New Year!! I'll be back in 2011 - I hope it will be a great year for us all!

Just a little something I've been working on....

2010-12-15T21:20:00.020+08:00

BRAT

Seriously Awesome Sausages

7 Elgin Street

Soho, Hong Kong

All photos by seriously awesome friend and photographer, Haf Saba

Aire del Sur

2010-12-08T20:34:00.028+08:00

I've had this apartment in my mind for a while now...ever since I first saw it published in Australia's Vogue Living quite some time ago. It was such a delight to see more photos published this month in the Spanish Architectural Digest, and even more of a delight to find out who resides here.

Argentinian designer Marcelo Lucini is not only the resident and designer of this amazing apartment in Buenos Aires, but also the man behind the seriously chic furniture and accessories company Aire del Sur. This is a man who has managed to make home furnishings look sexy...

see? this picture is not advertising apparel....nice change, huh?

Anyway, I digress. The Aire del Sur line of furnishings is made from luxurious materials in classic forms, and I'm totally in love with the Anders desk and tables, made from iron and parchment....

Head on over to his website for more if this takes your fancy ;)

JMF & Hermès

2010-11-27T12:07:00.026+08:00

Call me strange, but the names Hermès and Jean-Michel Frank in the same sentence gets me excited. Very excited. The decades old relationship between the über luxury house and the before-his-time designer is about to be resurrected. Hermès has announced they plan to re-issue eight of JMF's classic designs. The launch of these pieces coincide with the opening of their new Paris store...and their official return to home furnishings. Word on the street is a third of the store will be dedicated to homewares. So, what get's me more excited than that? The possible re-edition of pieces by Paul Dupré-Lafon and Jacques Adnet of course...

books...

2010-11-23T17:29:00.004+08:00

I'm very excited about this new release from French publishing house Norma Editions. The first monograph dedicated to the work of Marc du Plantier by author Yves Badetz. Can't wait for my copy to arrive :)

Khai Liew

2010-11-18T20:45:00.001+08:00

My latest love affair is with the home of the Malaysian-born Australian, Khai Liew. I've been a fan of Liew's work for some time now so it was a real teat for me to see his Adelaide home. It embodies all that is good about the Australian lifestyle - laid back and casual, and is blended with a cerebral Asian influence. Its the epitome of East meets West (sorry, I know that term is so overused, but I can't think of anything else). If you are a fan of the American designers Annabelle Selldorf or the firm Shelton Mindel then I think you'd like this place. If so, go buy yourself a copy of the latest German Architectural Digest.

As you can imagine I've been mentally re-decorating since I saw this....

Photographed by Derek Henderson for German Architectural Digest, Nov 2010 edition.

Nicholas & Alistair

2010-11-08T20:30:00.030+08:00

If the Nicholas & Alistair gallery had been open when I lived in Melbourne, I may never have left. Housed in a hundred-year-old building located near the banks of Melbourne's Yarra River is what can only be described as Australia's greatest collection of 20th century design.

The gallery is named after co-owners Nicholas Mesiano and Alistair Knight (of course) who spend much of the year travelling the globe sourcing pieces for the gallery. In fact they've recently returned from a 2 month buying expedition in Europe and the Americas. Lucky them!

The pair pride themselves on finding the more exceptional and unusual examples of design...and I have to say the list of designers whose pieces have graced the space reads like my favorites list: Gio Ponti, Osvaldo Borsani, Carlo Scarpa, Ico Parisi, Jacques Adnet, Guillerme and Chambron, Jules Leleu, William Haines and Paul Evans....and many more.

I'll definitely have to pay them a visit next time I'm back home...

Amor español

2010-11-03T20:12:00.011+08:00

I've said it before, and I'll say it again....the Spanish have style in spades! The Spanish Architectural Digest is definitely one of my favorite reads, and Nuevo Estilo - although not available here in HK from what I've seen - has a great website with so many beautiful images. I've discovered many talented designers, but one in particular I posted about here - Thomas Urquijo - finally has a website. There are so many lovely projects that its hard to pick a favorite, but this one which was just published by Nuevo Estilo, is pretty darn amazing...

Tom Dixon at Lane Crawford

2010-10-31T18:25:00.002+08:00

Brit designer Tom Dixon made an appearance at Hong Kong's Lane Crawford on Thursday night to celebrate the launch of his new Industry collection and a book by the same name.

New products in the collection include 'Peg' a funky little solid wood, stackable café-style chair (seen below) and some wonderful new lighting designs using the Dixon signature metal- copper. I've always been such a fan of copper so its nice to see someone using it in a new way.

‘Industry’ the book is the first of a new series of self-published books by Tom Dixon. The series will highlight and discuss a particular topic, the first being a subject at the forefront of Dixon's mind - challenging society's accepted means of design and production. The paperback outlines a critique of various design production formulas followed by Tom’s own proposal for a Future Industry, and includes previously unpublished conversations between Dixon and design critic Laura Houseley. In the same spirit of his philosophies, this publishing venture cuts out the middle man by employing Print On Demand technology. The book doesn't appear to be available online yet, but I'm hoping the Tom Dixon website or Amazon will make it available to non British residents...it sounds like an interesting read!

The Fairmont San Francisco Penthouse

2010-10-24T22:00:00.001+08:00

I am so excited to be able to share with you a sneak peek of the as yet unpublished Fairmont San Francisco Penthouse. The iconic suite, which has been recently revitalized by Alexandra Champalimaud and her team, is 6,000 sq ft of pure luxury.

Ten times larger than the average apartment here in Hong Kong, the suite spans the entire eight floor of the building and consists of three large bedrooms, a living room with grand piano, a formal dining room able to seat 60 people, a kitchen, a two-story library, a billiard room, and an expansive terrace with sweeping views of San Francisco.

On top of all these amazing features, the suite is also home to an impressive art collection featuring original works by David Hockney and other contemporary artists as well as a grouping of exquisite Chinese porcelain vases.

If that's not enough to impress you, the world’s elite have called The Penthouse home. President John F. Kennedy, Prince Charles of Wales, Mikhail Gorbachev, King Hussein of Jordan, Queen Beatrix of the Netherlands as well as Mick Jagger, Elton John, Tony Bennett, Nat King Cole and Marlene Dietrich are just a few of the suite’s famous guests since it opened to the public.

About the spectacular suite, Champalimaud says “The Penthouse of The Fairmont San Francisco is like no other hotel suite. This mansion in the sky is a perfect example of the grand and richly detailed residences that were built for families of San Francisco’s great fortunes almost a century ago. In designing The Penthouse, we have inherited a rich history and the eclectic and sophisticated tastes of the suite’s original owners and those who lived here".

One of the three bedrooms in the Penthouse, this one is utterly beautiful. The colours are so fresh and calming, and the mix is classic and completely timeless.

The living room...I am absolutely in love with it! The colours are beautiful, as are the subtle details and the mix of antique and modern furnishings.

Can you imagine 60 of your closest friends in this room for a night? That's a recipe for one hell of a dinner party if you ask me!

The two-story circular library crowned by a rotunda where a celestial map is rendered in gold leaf against a sapphire sky. A secret passageway concealed behind bookshelves on the library’s second floor lends a sense of intrigue to the historic suite.

The billiard room covered in Persian tile from floor to vaulted ceiling. The Moorish details in this room were inspired by the original designer of the suite, Arthur Upham Pope, a pioneering scholar on Persian art and architecture.

The suite's terrace with enviable views of San Francisco. I certainly wouldn't mind sitting out here with a gin & tonic on a nice night! What do you think?

All images taken by Matthew Millman, care of Champalimaud design.

Just spotted...

2010-10-20T10:56:00.001+08:00

these stunning leather products by German company Ludwig Schröder.

the Table lamp and 'Ring 3' bowl are stunning!

based upon...

2010-10-16T13:30:00.001+08:00

The group of artists and designers based in London known as based upon were established by the Abell twin brothers in 2004. Their studio specialises in unique finishes that are so beautiful and yet so discreet you've probably seen them without even realising. Take the David Collins designed Artesian Bar in London's Langham Hotel - those seriously delicious tabletops (below) and the beautiful bar front are both by based upon.

The based upon studio has developed a unique liquid metal and resin finish that has been hand-applied to a variety of surfaces, large scale artworks and installations, and bespoke and limited edition furniture, and are often commissioned by leading designers for some of the worlds finest homes, boats and commercial spaces.

I have been coveting their furniture for some time now....check out their "Plum Blossom" cabinet....isn't it amazing?

Creating bespoke items for a project obviously comes at a cost, so the folks at based upon have launched the Plane collection - a range of customisable tables that allows clients interested in creating their own unique piece to do so without the time and cost usually involved in commissioning a completely new form. The tables use an adaptable leg design allowing several different shapes, and with a range of surfaces to chose from, voilà! - you have yourself a semi-bespoke piece of furniture!

Working models at 1:10 scale showing tables from the new Plane Collection

One possibility from the selection of shapes and finishes available.

A stamp of authenticity.

One of the beautiful surface finishes available for the Plane Collection.

I would seriously love to work with these guys on a project at some time soon, and will be putting one of these tables on my Xmas wish list. In the meantime, I'll just have to be content with lusting after the images on their website.

All photos courtesy of based upon.

100% Design & Decorex

2010-10-11T08:00:00.012+08:00

There's nothing quite like coming back from a holiday to a pile of work the size of Kilimanjaro...its about as fun as a slap in the face. There should be laws to enforce a slow ease back into a 5 day work week after a holiday! I had intended on doing this post sooner, but better late than never I guess...

London was, and is fantastic. Our 7 days away were refreshing and inspiring in many ways. For me particularly it was being in an international city with a great creative vibe and attending several world class events. My first ever visit to 100% Design and Decorex were certainly not disappointing. I'm sure I don't need to give a blow by blow account of the two days I spent with my jaw dragging along the ground, but I will give you my highlights and favorites.

100% Design to me was a typical European fair - all about quality, not quantity. I was completely inspired by all the new up-coming designers and the vast range of products on show. The one stand that has stuck in my mind might've been the smallest, but I'm totally in love with the surfaces created by Giles Miller. Each and every one of his surfaces on show was totally creative and unique - but I can't get past his cardboard butterflies (below).

Decorex was also completely inspiring. I'm totally digging the collections and new products that were shown by Fromental, Sommerville Scott, Collection Pierre, CTO Lighting, and especially the new coloured vellum tables by Julian Chichester (below).

After a morning of wandering around in what seemed like a haze - which I can only liken to a drug overdose - I spent too little time browsing at Potterton Books and then had the pleasure of hearing John Minshaw speak about his work. After an inspiring and thoroughly entertaining introduction to his career we were treated to images of his never before published home in the English countryside. Pure bliss. It's going to take a lot to top a day like that!

Mark Cunningham

2010-10-04T08:10:00.002+08:00

OK, I'll take a quick break from the London lowdown to give thanks to Elle Decor for bringing a few much deserved glossy pages of Mark Cunningham's work to us. I won't post all the images in case you haven't seen the spread yet. To die for. All I can say is, I can't wait to see more from this talented designer, and what Russell does with the US Architectural Digest...

Jaime Hayon per sé

2010-10-03T08:59:00.000+08:00

One of the most exciting events for me during my recent trip to London was being able to attend the launch party of the new range of furniture from Sé by Jaime Hayon.

I can safely say that each of the pieces in this collection is set to be a future design classic. The 'Arper' lounge chair (seen below in the showroom window) is the signature piece of the collection and its easy to see why. The Arper was inspired by the form of the traditional wing-back club chair and interpreted in a way that has Hayon's signature all over it.

My favorite piece might be the tambor table (second last image) - the super sexy shape and the combination of carrara marble and lacquered metal is so simple yet so chic. Its hard to choose though, each and every one of the designs are charming, and show a delightful selection of materials not normally seen in such a contemporary range - velvet and leather upholstery and lacquered metals in a range of subtle metallic colours teamed with classic marbles. Oh, and the colours, did I mention the colours? Divine.

If you're in London and you missed the launch, the collection will be in show in the pop-up showroom on Brompton Road until October 5th, so go check it out!

Larusmiani

2010-09-30T21:09:00.073+08:00

David Collins has done it again!

The latest project from the drawing boards of David Collins Studio is a stunning new concept boutique for the Italian fashion house Larusmiani in Milan, on the prestigious corner of Via Montenapoleone and Via Verri in the fashion district.

Larusmiani was founded in 1922 and has become world renowned for fine tailoring and luxurious textiles, particularly unusual blends like cotton / linen with vicuna, silk or cashmere. The company's textiles have been used by Collins throughout the interior and complimented with more sumptuous finishes such as marble and leather in a palette of ivory, parchment and shades of the signature Larusmiani blue.

Elements of the design, particularly the furniture, has been clearly influenced by the circa 1950's building that houses the boutique. Ever present are the details that Collins is known for - grosgrain ribbon trims and contrasting saddle stitching to name a few. Of the overall design, David Collins comments, “My inspiration for the space is a reflection of the quality and attention to detail that is the hallmark of Larusmiani”.

The 3-story boutique which will house the company's men's and women's wear collections will also feature a carefully curated collection of time pieces, books and cutting edge technology. Adding to the exclusivity of the environment there is a marble fireplace in the salon, each floor has a private terrace, the dressing rooms were designed as small living rooms (some of which have bathrooms!) and the lifts are lined with velvet. Così elegante!

Now I wish I'd booked a side trip to Milan from London! Speaking of which, bare with me while I get my photos and notes together...stay tuned!

Photo care of David Collins Studio.

Meeting Kelly Hoppen

2010-09-18T08:29:00.047+08:00

I had the pleasure of attending the world premiere of the Kelly Hoppen Home collection in Hong Kong last week where a group of designers were able to get a sneak preview of the furniture and home wares (which will be sold in Hong Kong by Indigo Living) and meet the lady herself. Often dubbed the "Queen of Taupe", Kelly Hoppen has had a prolific career, and she shows no signs of slowing down with this new collection and the release of another book. The entire collection is hand made in China, and despite what your preconceptions may be about the origins, the quality is surprisingly good - as the designer herself can attest having travelled to Hong Kong via the factory.

The collection is broad and varied, some pieces bare the trademark Hoppen style - mixed textures, Asian influences - and others show new sources of inspiration. The collection was designed, Hoppen explained to us, to work in a variety of interiors and work with a large range of styles. Pieces are versatile and can be used almost anywhere. I think my favorite would have to be the dining chairs (seen above) which to me have a whiff of Prouvé about them.

The collection will be in the Indigo Living stores in Hong Kong from mid-October, and available internationally in the near future.

John McLennon CEO of Indigo Living with Kelly Hoppen MBE at the product launch in Hong Kong last week

I'm off to London in a few days, so this might be my last post until I get back at the end of the month. But stay tuned for exiting news and reports from Decorex, 100% Design and other exiting events.

John Minshaw

2010-09-08T20:25:00.000+08:00

Are you tired of the London themed posts yet? Sorry, I have a few more planned before my trip (and lets face it, probably a few after too)...so bear with me folks!

London-based designer John Minshaw's work made appearance on my radar a little while ago - and I'm so glad it did. Minshaw's work is timeless - both modern and classic at the same time. Each room is a study in expertly composed pieces and perfectly balanced colour. Of his work, Minshaw says "My style is to buy good antiques and design bespoke cabinetry, then put them into pared-down interiors". In my opinion, the results are just stunning.

One of the highlights of my upcoming trip to London (other than the wedding I'm attending, of course) will be going to Decorex. John Minshaw is speaking on Tuesday 28th - the day I'm planning to go. I'm looking forward to hearing him talk about "Space and Detailing" - and possibly picking up a copy of his book.

For more beautiful images of the project feature in the last image, check out the latest issue of the German Architectural Digest.

LA style in London

2010-08-30T13:43:00.059+08:00

I fell head over heels in love with with this London home by L.A. Designers Carole Katleman and Daniel Cuevas when I first saw it published in Belle magazine this time last year. Needless to say I was happily surprised to see it published again in Interiors, this time with photos of spaces not previously published. The bones of the house are grand and beautiful, but to me its the colour palette, the mix of furniture and the artwork that make this place truly breathtaking. Enjoy!

The stunning Drawing Room (maybe too much white for me, but I love the crispness of it) features custom furniture by the designers, the painting above the fireplace is by Ugo Rondinone, to the right is a piece by Christopher Wool.

A view of the Dining Room leading into theDrawing Room. The painting on the right hand side is also by Ugo Rondinone, the table is French Deco paired with neoclassical chairs.

The chaise at one end of the Drawing Room is by the designers, the painting is by Richard Prince.

A view of the opposite end of the Drawing Room. I love how fresh and crisp this room feels. The carpets are by Patterson, Flynn & Martin and the painting is by Bernard Frize.

Looking into the Library from the Entry. The chesterfield sofa is by Linley, the photographs above are by Marcelo Krasilcic. The chairs flanking the doorway are by Gio Ponti.

Looking into the Office from the Library (I am particularly in love with this room). The regency chair on the left is from JF Chen and the stool is 60's French. The painting over the fireplace in the office is by Maurizio Cattelan.

The Master Bedroom's Office has a Jacques Adnet desk and chair.

A view of the Master Bedroom looking towards the lady of the house's Dressing room. Seating on either side of the cabinet is custom by the designers.

And last, but definitely not least, this stunning room...which I can't find any specific information on. The walls appear to be leather-lined, which is paired beautifully with a gloss paint finish and metal fireplace. The colours are breathtaking and compliment the art perfectly.

Photographed by Richard Powers for Interiors magazine Aug/Sept 2010, and Belle Australia Aug/Sept 2009.

cool ceramics

2010-08-27T08:23:00.007+08:00

I'm totally loving the work of London-based ceramicist Solomia Zoumaras. Her designs are inspired by 20th Century design and architecture and are not only mathematically precise - they fit together like lego blocks! I love the funky shapes and rich colour glazes on the insides...I might just have to track me down one of these when I'm in London...

Revisiting old favorites...

2010-08-16T20:27:00.003+08:00

My impending trip to London has me revisiting some old favorites from my files...this one is a family home decorated by Paolo Moschino.

Pale neutral walls teamed with dark wood floors, great art and a mix of furniture is always a winner in my eyes. The dining room is a great mix of old and new, and the touches of pink are subtle but chic. To be honest though, any room with a Francis Bacon hanging is going to be good as far as I'm concerned. I love the colour palette in the living room, as well as the 4 Vipers series by Philip Taaffe. I fell in love with his work after seeing a piece from the same series hanging in another incredibly chic London home by Jacques Grange. That's not all these two home owners have in common...they're also both friends of Valentino - as if they'd be anything other than chic!

Images photographed by Simon Upton from the April 2009 edition of Elle Decor.

Spanish style

2010-08-06T08:36:00.000+08:00

I love it when you see something done in a way that makes you rethink your original opinion. I don't (or should I say - didn't) like stone floors....but these? Beautiful. Who would've thought to put a border in the same stone but a textured finish? I have to be honest, I'm not sure I would have. And I love the narrow black border. Not to mention the bookshelves...

This image was originally posted by I Suwannee, and then by Habitually Chic, and I'm so glad the mystery was solved and we now know who is behind this room. The seriously talented Spaniard, Isabel López-Quesada, was already a fave, but this has cemented it. Go check out Nuevo Estilo for the rest of the images of this beautiful apartment.

an eye on Hong Kong

2010-08-03T08:14:00.028+08:00

Monocle - one of my favorite magazines - finally opened their permanent store and Asian news bureau last week in the cool Star Street district of Wan Chai. Stocking back issues of the magazines as well as a curated range of product collaborations including books, posters and CDs, its just another excuse to spend some time in one of my favorite neighbourhoods. If you're in Hong Kong and want to check it out the address is Shop 1 Bo Fung Mansion, 1 - 4 St. Francis Yard, Wanchai. The shop is open from 11am to 7pm daily.

And while you're at it, check out my friends store directly across the road - "Blouse-ripped". A range of stylish creations for women by a local designer - its at 15 St Francis Yard. Shop til you drop!

Nika Zupanc

2010-07-30T08:29:00.001+08:00

Happy Friday everyone! It's been a long week for me, but has been brightened somewhat with the discovery of Slovenian designer Nika Zupanc's work. She's had a bit of press coverage lately with features in Wallpaper and the Australian Belle magazine. It was the latter that brought my attention to her 'Phonique' sofa (below) which was shown at the Milan Fair this year. I'm also quite in love with the 'Tapisserie' sofa (bottom image). Her work is refreshingly new and yet familiar at the same time - making them instantly likable in my book. There are plenty more fun and quirky designs on her website, so if you like these head on over and check them out!

Fullerton Bay

2010-07-27T20:19:00.017+08:00

I'm rather enamoured with the recently opened Fullerton Bay Hotel in Singapore designed by Hong Kong based Andre Fu of AFSO. Not that I've ever needed an excuse to visit Singapore, but this place (especially the stunning check-in counter!) is certainly good motivation to book a flight sooner rather than later...

Tony Chi

2010-07-20T08:23:00.033+08:00

Taiwanese-born, US-based designer Tony Chi is one of my all time favorites. His team creates spaces that are world renowned for being elegant and refined, in particular some stunning restaurants (including the Oak Door at the Grand Hyatt in Tokyo where I shared an anniversary dinner with my husband several years ago) and some breathtaking hotels. His recently updated website will definitely be a port of call when I'm in need of some visual inspiration. Take a look at a few of these images and I'm sure you'll see why....

Great Southern Land

2010-07-12T20:44:00.014+08:00

You could be mistaken for thinking the title of this post is a reference to Australia, and the famous song by Icehouse of the same title (the Aussies out there will know what I'm talking about). But no, I'm actually talking about South Africa. With the World Cup action coming to an end, and recently meeting another lovely couple from here, my feet are itching and the travel bug is back. Any excuse to travel to this amazing place would do, like a wedding for example (hint, hint!)...kidding. But seriously, if I do make it to South Africa this place will be on my list of places to visit. Delaire Graff, a a short drive from Cape Town, is a stunning estate which has recently been designed by David Collins Studio. The estate is home to not just a winery, but a restaurant and boutique hotel as well. As you can see from above the surrounding landscape is breathtaking, so if the food and wine are anywhere near as good as this (and the interiors - check out the website for more pics!) I'm sure its heavenly!

Style in spades...little teeny tiny ones!

2010-07-07T20:40:00.016+08:00

Anyone out there who has not yet got a copy of the July/August House Beautiful (US) needs to run, not walk, to their closest news stand and buy one. Immediately. Why? Because the stunning apartment which graces the cover weighs in at a mere 390 square feet, or about 39 square metres. It's ridiculous how pretty this place is. Its amazing inspiration for everyone, but especially for those of us living like laboratory animals in sprawling cities around the world. It makes my place (which is marginally bigger) feel and look as bland as a cardboard box in comparison. The home-owner and decorator, David Kaihoi, is definitely one to watch. Currently working for Miles Redd, I have a feeling this will not be the last time a place by him makes it to the front cover of a magazine.

More photos online from Studiolo, and a bit more of a back story on the man behind all this gorgeousness from an ex-colleague, Mr Nick Olsen.