Asia-Pacific I October 2013
137 Pillars House The Heart Of Thai Architecture
A Behind Of Stylish
Indulgence In Bali
AB Concept
The New Language In Design
Phuket’s
Best Modern Topicality Designed For Living
Meet Special Directions In Space & Style Costa Rica, Shanghai, Bali, Japan
360 Contents DNA In Design 12 New Urban Lifestyle In Bangkok
The space management, eco-friendly theme in design, resort-alike ambience with homely feel and the innovative design will be more focused as the quintessential tactic to edge out the competitors in the high-end market.
18 Evolution & Vibrancy Google Israel opened its spectacular new 8’000 m2 offices in Tel Aviv for their ever growing teams of engineers, sales and marketing.
22 The Striking Shanghai Style
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Shanghai is celebrated for its contemporary glamour, boldness and elegance.
26 The Core Of Innovation AB Concept, a leading Hong Kong-based design and architectural studio, brought new bold new design for the ultimate indulgence in Bali
30 New Design Experience
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Starwood announced its new benchmark of stylish living on paradise at Kuta beach.
34 Modern Tropical Residence The combination between concrete and wood that really maximize sophistication and simplicity in a single space.
42 A Place To Call Home Sri Panwa is a crème de la crème of the accommodation incorporating the luxury living with the nature and tropical panorama.
50 Homey Space In Town
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Anantara Baan Rajprasong highlights a good example of the mixed development between condo and hotel within the same compound.
58 A Heart Of Modern Simplicity Mercure Krabi Deevana is guaranteed to bring discerning travelers with the new era of unparalleled traveling experience.
62 The Essence Of Thai Touch 137 Pillars House revives the old world elegance of the Orient and invites guests to enjoy every modern luxury. Here, you will be led through the surrounding charms of Chiang Mai and welcome you home into pampered privacy.
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Life In Style
74 Where Ideas Take Shape
Contents 68 The New Language In Design The editor caught up with the Hong Kong design maestro Mr. Ed Ng, the co-founder and director of AB Concept, one of Asia’s leading architectural and forward-looking design studios in Asia, to share AB Concept’s inspiration and bold statement in design particularly in the hospitality industry in Thailand and the region.
74 Kaleidoscopic Floral Of All Seasons Sapporo is known as the capital of Hokkaido where the important river flowing through a plain in Ainu language. Nestled in the scenic central part of Japan’s northernmost island, a former mystical samurai town, is a newly westernization developed city boasts as abundance of hidden getaways to get you in the mood for love of all seasons.
80 Neo-Innovative Japanese Delight People are not only demanding for the deliciousness of the meal, but are also concerning of the high standard of the food preparation, presentation, the quality, and the freshness for healthy life. Japanese eatery stands the right position to gain benefits and meet such concept of modern living and dining in style.
82 The Gateway To Classic-Modern Heaven
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Regent Phuket Cape Panwa is ensconced with the best of both world of hospitality service and the world of design to render the poshness of the western hemisphere and also to redefine the luxury experience for a memorable melody of living on island.
Asia-Pacific I October 2013
From The Publisher
Let’s Speak The New Language Of Design Welcome to the new life in design in October issue, this month is actually the warehouse of concept, showing the great rank of practical and distinctively innovative design ideas for your living intelligently from key pedigree in style like Hua Hin, Phuket, and Chiang Mai, including selected well-designed ambience and destinations from Google Isarael, Shanghai, Bali, and Japan. To my opinion, I consider that the realm of design has gone so far than just concentrating solely on the conventional practice or the paradigm of design we learnt from the textbook, it can be done with abnormal concept under the realistic approach to serve the market these days and also to idealistically create a wow, never-experienced, or once-of-a-life time impact, so to speak. Meanwhile, the combination of the traditional look and modern interpretation has been largely and obviously implemented. Sometime, it’s ridiculous that even if we have seen the smorgasbord of enthralling design ideas for mega projects, hotels resorts, homes and residences and even the enhancing ambience in the office, but it’s actually hard to come up with the new language so as to put into the dictionary of the world in design aside from the repetitively used words like “modernity”, “contemporary”, “modern contemporary”, or “innovation”, etc. Such are the irresistibly impactful marketing jargon that we have to use to attract customers who prefer to indulge themselves in a particular design destination capable of reflecting their core value, personality and characteristic. Anyway, I do believe that we will be able to speak about the design with the new language soon because, in the culinary side, the word “Fusion” has gradually been rained out from the dining scene in Thailand and might be kicked out from the culinary dictionary soon because it makes people confused. That’s a reason why I caught up with the Hong Kong design maestro Mr. Ed Ng, the co-founder and director of AB Concept, one of Asia’s leading architectural and forward-looking design studios in Asia, and did one-on-one interview with him in this issue to discuss about the dynamic concept in design. I realize that people in the rich market is fluctuated while they don’t only look for location and convenience for a day-to-day basic of living, but they are also growingly in search of hotels resorts, condos, and some residential projects capable of sporting the conceptual design and style, the quality of value for money, and the idea in construction. Enjoy the inspirational and enhancing ambience from Google Israel, the modern tropical home by Andrés Serpa at Playa Grande, Costa Rica, the modern home in Yamasaki, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan, designed by Tato Architects, including two new hotels resorts-W Retreat Shanghai and Sheraton Bali Kuta Resort. And let’s find out the new language in design. I also look forward to working with you from now on so as to make sure that doing brand and marketing communication with Residence magazine is worthy and valuable to connect your products and services to high-ranking executives, property developers, investors, and CEOs, including sophisticated readership in the up market in Thailand.
Mr. Rangsan Srirat Editor
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Editorial Advisory Board: Samroey Suwanpratheep, Janya P. Editorial Editor: Rangsan Srirat Writers/Sub-Editor: Dave, Andre Torpey, Cherry Lane, Sheehan B. Editorial Co-Ordinators: Tony Size, Martin P., Christ R. Contributing Writers: Saroj Palakawong Na Ayuthaya, Laurence Civil, John Ham, Machinda, Masaki H., Vasin Srivarathanabul, John B. Scott Photo Journalists: Surasak Khongkhuan, Kavin Elson, Koo Elle, Paul H. Production Art Director: Thanakrit Prawat Designer: Thanathat Ch., Jeff Fintoni Digital Production Specialist: Itthiniruth Sethsirikul Advertising Media Consultants Manager: Cholnapat Moungsiri Media Consultants: Pailin Somtuy, Jiratip Bualert Publishing Managing Director: Ketmanee Siribangsawatdi Managing Editor: Rangsan Srirat General Manager: Maneerat Saetang Subscriptions / Distributions TNT Express Service by We-Send Editorial Enquiries rangsansrirat@yahoo.com rangsansrirat@gmail.com Three Sixty Biz Co., Ltd. 10/148 (1603C), 16th floor, The Trendy Office Building, Sukhumvit 13, Klongtoey-Nua, Wattana, Bangkok 10110 Thailand T: +66 (0) 2168 6188 F: +66 (0) 2168 6189 Office Mobile : +66 (0) 9 2729 9640-42 Residence magazine is the registered publication of Three Sixty CO., LTD. No part may be reproduced without the prior written permission of the publisher. Opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the publisher. While every care is taken, prices and details are subject to change and the publisher can take no responsibility for omissions or errors. All information correct at the time of printing. Unsolicited manuscripts and photographs are not accepted and will not be returned. All rights reserved. Copyright @ 2013 by Three Sixty CO., LTD.
360째 Design Focus:
Experience The New DNA In Design & Style
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Property in Thailand and Asia-Pacific is still the largest asset class in property investment. The property industry is fluctuated while people in the up market don’t only look for coveted location and convenience for a day-to-day basic of living, but they are also growingly in search of residential project capable of sporting the conceptual design and style, the quality of value for money, enhancing idea in interior and construction, including the capability to deliver the preferable homey and unique comfort to all residents and visitors. Here is the action in design featuring great rank of design destination, properties, residences, new residential projects and condos with refreshing design & style ambiance, design hotels resorts all over Thailand and Asia waiting for your visit to realize the essence of practical and design ideas for living. Hopefully that all our design and stylish ideas in architectural and interior design featured in this issue can no less inspire your inspiration and imagination to recreate your dream residence or redefine a new livable and refreshing ambience at your own residence, place, and space.
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360° Design ideas
The New Urban Lifestyle
In Bangkok by Rangsan Srirat
Sukhumvit’s real estate, residential and lifestyle development have significantly continued growing since 2008 and it’s too soon to jump to a conclusion that the industry is coming close to the final curtain and might end up with a property bubble due to the oversupply of condominiums, especially after the completion of the Suvarnabhumi Airport, the opening of airport rail link, and the expansion of BTS skytrain to Bangna area. The managing director of Jones Lang LaSalle, Suphin Mechuchep, said that the Thai property market is active, particularly condominiums in inner Bangkok, despite domestic political problems and sluggish Western economies. Thai property prices are one-tenth those in Hong Kong and Singapore, while the Thai economy remains strong and people have cash on hand.
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roperty purchases are a way to compete with inflation, especially if it’s an investment for rent. The firm is also confident that the prospect of property bubble will still remain impossible despite the oversupply of condominiums, including coming new hotels expansion in Bangkok. Roughly 270,000 square metres of new office space are reportedly scheduled for Bangkok in the next three years, outer Sukhumvit area until Bang Na area will enjoy the benefit as a non-Central Business District following the BTS sky train expanded its route linking On Nut and Soi Bearing or Sukhumvit Soi 107. The low-rise housing and residential project will be a leading trend of development for next year, especially the property investment during Sukhumvit Soi 1 until Soi 63 or Ekkamai and other sub-Soi in between. The Real Estate Information Center also reported an increase of seven percent to 13,500 units in the number of low-rise housing construction permits in Bangkok and 26 per cent in five adjacent provinces to 24,700 units. The design and architectural idea will be more customer-based. Meanwhile, the concern about space management, green and eco-friendly theme in design, resort-alike ambience with homely feel, not to mention to the innovative design will be used as the quintessential tactic to edge out the competitors in the high-end market, where people will be following the trend to stay in the mix-used residential development to maximize their unique lifestyle
and luxury comfort in the city. The Hyde Sukhumvit is the epitome of a mix-used development for an ultimate urban indulgence, comprising of 455 high-end residential units and 30 floors will be dedicated for hotel and retail stores. The design concept is modeled on “His and Her;� architectural inspiration comes from male and female clothing. The dwellings will consist of 227 one-bedroom units, 138 two-bedroom units, 78 three-bedroom units, eight three-bedroom duplex units and four penthouse apartments. The residence owners will be in the enviable position of living in the centre of Sukhumvit with the best of all facilities and services at their doorsteps. It will represent the excellent value for money given to its location, convenient transport links and the extremely high standards of the units. The Hyde Sukhumvit is slated to completion in March 2014. The newly-developed Viva Garden by Bliston is an appealing case study of a mix-used residential project between residence and hotel, offering residents and discerning guests with a new lap of luxury and comfort through the blissful complimentary luxurious amenities. The interesting features and amenities equivalent to those of high quality hotels include spacious bedroom with en-suite bathroom, well-equipped kitchenette, hi-speed internet access, home entertainment system, in-room washing machine, and balcony, rendering residents with a deep rest and complete relaxation from a workaholic day. October 2013
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In the luxury condominium market, condominium living is becoming more widely adopted and there is still potential demand particularly in densely populated areas where there has been limited development.
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Even if the Sukhumvit road didn’t not experience flooding, but the prices of condominiums will be rising in accordance with the high construction costs, the Bt300 minimum wage, the coveted locations, how classy interior and exterior is, the tranquility and peacefulness, and the variety of entertainments in Sukhumvit. The majority of the family market will consider townhouses in a good location several kilometres away from a mass transit station in the suburb rather than a one-bedroom condominium in the city. Anyway, there will be continued demand for small condominiums from singles, couples and weekday occupation by children attending central city schools and second home use. In the luxury condominium market, condominium living is becoming more widely adopted and there is still potential demand particularly in densely populated areas where there has been limited development. Developers will face the challenges of identifying new opportunities in new locations as well as to sell out poorly performing projects before they are completed. The competition will remain fierce and intensive with a tendency to quickly over supply in a particular location. The demand of condo living is driven primarily by end-users and partly by buy-to-let investors who purchase for their own use in the future. Large listed developers with a strong reputation, including Major Development, Charn Issara, Grande Asset, and TCC Land, which is one of Thailand prominent conglomerates to develop and to invest in wide range of real estate projects covering residential, hospitality, retails, property management, logistics, and agro industries in Thailand and worldwide, dominate the condominium market and they are focusing more on the middle-end market in
the urban Bangkok area. Most of luxurious and modern residences in Sukhumvit are increasingly depending on the latest development in “Green” concept, ranging from a sophisticated water recycling system to the use of hot air from air conditioners to provide self sufficient hot water. Other features include the latest in high-speed elevator technology and automated systems to seal off upper level balconies in high wind conditions. Meanwhile, the surrounding facilities will feature such intimate and convenient recreational facilities as swimming pools overlooking the sunset and the jaw-dropping view of the city, multi-tiered sun and shade decks, a poolside bar, a health spa, gym, jogging track and tropical gardens and Salas or relaxing pavilion. “Royce” private residence is one of the brand-new residential projects and freehold high-rise condominiums situated on Sukhunvit 31. The Royce is a truly super luxurious condominium consisting of two high-rise buildings – the 39-storey and the 25-storey buildings – which they are harmoniously blended together as the natural gardens and greenery space between the two buildings on the location of 3 rai land 3 ngan and 6wah land are created as the oasis to sport tranquility and comfort. The concept of Royce is not only the privacy in the prime location, but also the greenery
space with the largest private formal garden in downtown, conveying the art of living with the mood of English courtyard garden decoration. The residence is well complimented by the numerous amenities and natural splendor such as mini sport world private pool terrace, 50m. lap pool, and two Jacuzzi pavilions, perfume maze garden, decorative pond, hundred thousand fountain, and a magnificent private club house with the full-range of activities. “Quattro” is the iconic stylish living in Thonglor, which is exquisitely completed through the state-of-the-art design, brand-serious concept, and consumer-friendly features in order to create a strong sense of exotic mix with the ability to retain natural outlook to exude or deliver an enduring experience in the upscale condominium in the metropolis. Meanwhile, homey comfort is essentially the sensual touch that they added to sport what it calls home-away home. Located in the superb vicinity on Sukhumvit Soi 55 (Thonglor Soi 4), Quattro by Sansiri is a high-rise condominium community featuring 446 units totally housed in the two innovatively designed towers, the first tower features 28 storeys while the second tower has 36 storeys. Quattro is a dream residential project in the coveted location amidst the mounting competitive environment. It’s finished with luxury amenities and cutting-edge facilities and well equipped with internationally recognized furniture, aiming to fulfill the luxury comfort for sophisticated and modern people living in the city. They believe that such well-appointed classic and high-end hardware in decoration and elegant design will play as the key role to accomplish a timeless and unsurpassable impression in each unit. The concept of high ceiling has been blissfully used to make the
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area of all units more spacious and it’s a nod to the cozy feeling, comfort, and taste of grandeur to all interiors. The overall design is emotionally flowing and visually balanced between classic texture and modern contemporary to avoid something repetitive that all discerning customers might have seen from other city condos in the vicinity or even in the branded hotels. “The Capital Condo” at Ekamai-Thonglor is about buying the personality, it is actually an evolution of style and design, the condo is luxuriously finished and the overall floor planning, distinctive layout, amenities, and classic decorative items are perfectly matched to exude the glimpse of “Paris” as the classic touch and refined finish gives a nudge to the definition of “Florence”. Available at one bedroom, two bedrooms typically sized from 30 - 175 sq.m., and Penthouses, which is luxuriously finished with minimalist aesthetic sense and the private pool. The large glass fracas and glazed wall are also mainly used in the project to provide plenty of natural light and the solid furniture pieces, appealing features, and functional layout are sophisticatedly incorporated to echo distinctive architectural look both in term of design and style throughout the residential units, building, and outdoor area. Raimond Land recently organized the launching party to officially spur target people in the up market about its new 2 billion baht Bangkok project under The Lofts Brand. The developer acquired two rai of freehold land in 16
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the Sukhumvit-Ekkamai area and will be developing over 250 units there at an average selling price of around 7.5 million baht per unit. Prices will start at around 3.9 million baht. With close proximity to a BTS station and the fashionable Ekkamai and Thonglor districts, expected to be completed by 2015. As for the hospitality and service industry, CBRE expects that hotel room supply will increase by 28 per cent in Bangkok by 2014 as Thailand has obviously gained the reputation as one of the must-visited leisure destinations in East Asia for decades. Some hotel developers may face some difficulty in adhering to their loan repayments unless the cash flow is coming from another business line. Banks may start to tighten their lending criteria to the hotel sector which will restrict the amount of new supply that is being planned but it is not yet being built. Rapid Hotels Expansion In Bangkok According to the latest survey by property consultant CBRE Thailand, hotel supply in the
Thai capital increased 12.1% year-on-year, following the completion of six new hotels in the first six months of 2013. That means there are now 37,500 hotel rooms in central Bangkok. In addition, approximately 2,250 new rooms are expected to come online in the second half of 2013, spread across a range of market segments, including luxury (13%), upscale (8%), midscale (46%) and economy (33%). CBRE noted that “almost all” of the new hotels are in high-rise buildings, with the Sukhumvit area being most popular, accounting for 65% of the total hotel supply and four out of six of the new hotel openings. The Silom/Sathorn area accounted for 21% of the total hotel stock while the riverside area has 14% of supply. And according to James Pitchon, executive director of CBRE Research & Consulting Thailand, the increase in supply could present challenges to Bangkok’s hoteliers. “The big challenge for hotel owners is to raise the room rates which have not grown significantly for the last five years,” Pichton said. “But the second half of 2013 may finally see the growth in visitor arrivals outpacing new supply allowing owners to raise rates.” A further 4,400 additional rooms expected to be added to central Bangkok’s inventory the end of 2015, bringing the city’s total to almost 42,000 rooms – an 11.9% increase on current figures.
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360째 Design Ideas
Evolution And Vibrancy In Office by Camenzind Evolution / Photos Itay Sikolski
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Google Israel opened its spectacular new 8’000 m2 offices in Tel Aviv for their ever growing teams of engineers, sales and marketing. Designed by Swiss Design Team Camenzind Evolution, in collaboration with Israeli Design Teams Setter Architects and Studio Yaron Tal, the new Google office now occupies 8 floors in the prestigious Electra Tower in Central Tel Aviv, with breath taking views across the whole city and the sea.
Architects: Camenzind Evolution Collaborators: Setter Architects + Studio Yaron Tal Location: Tel Aviv, Israel Area: 8000.0 sqm Photographs: Itay Sikolski
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It is a new milestone for Google in the development of innovative work environments: nearly 50 per cent of all areas have been allocated to create communication landscapes, giving countless opportunities to employees to collaborate and communicate with other Googler’s in a diverse environment that will serve all different requirements and needs.
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t is a new milestone for Google in the development of innovative work environments: nearly 50 per cent of all areas have been allocated to create communication landscapes, giving countless opportunities to employees to collaborate and communicate with other Googler’s in a diverse environment that will serve all different requirements and needs. There is clear separation between the employees traditional desk based work environment and those communication areas, granting privacy and focus when required for desk based individual working and spaces for collaboration and sharing ideas. Each floor was designed with a different aspect of the local identity in mind, illustrating the diversity of Israel as a country and nation. Each of the themes were selected by a local group of Googlers, who also assisted in the
interpretation of those chosen ideas. Being in Israel, for lunch the Googlers can choose from three amazing restaurants, non-kosher, kosher dairy and kosher meat, each of the restaurants designed to it’s own style and theme. Only 7 of the 8 rented floors in Electra Tower are actually occupied by Google. The remaining floor gives space to a new ‘Campus’, which was also opened in December by the Israeli Prime Minister. The ‘Campus Tel Aviv’, powered by Google for Entrepreneurs, is a new hub for entrepreneurs and developers, providing a base for start-up companies, and is only the second Google ‘Campus’ worldwide. Sustainability played a vital role to Google in the development of their new Tel Aviv offices and the project is currently awaiting LEED ‘Platinum’ certification, the first of its category in Israel.
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360째 Design ideas
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Shanghai Style With Striking Design
by Text & Photos courtesy AB Concept
As China’s most cosmopolitan city, Shanghai is celebrated for its contemporary glamour, boldness and elegance. AB Concept has reflected and reinterpreted those qualities in its graceful design of Shàng-Xí, the buzzed-about Chinese restaurant within Four Seasons Hotel Pudong, Shanghai.
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einforcing AB Concept’s ability to capture a sense of place and offer a fresh perspective, the design draws on Shanghai’s rich history by combining the architectural forms of Shanghai’s neoclassical buildings within the French concession with traditional Chinese motifs. Acknowledging that this is a city known for grandiose expressions of wealth, AB Concept has tempered Shanghai-style flamboyance with a sense of refinement. Reinterpreting neoclassical style, Shàng-Xí’s soaring ceilings, bronze finishes and marble interiors suggest European opulence. To counter the sumptuousness with subtlety, sino-centric motifs, shapes and colours hint at oriental glamour while the deco-inspired furnishings reveal AB Concept’s appreciation for timeless elegance. Shàng-Xí comprises five private dining rooms and an intimate public space for 22 guests. Inspired by traditional Chinese cultural icons, AB Concept has designed each room to evoke the colours and qualities of a rare semi-precious stone. The reception features beige parchment panels complemented with bold bronze accents and jade inserts, leading to two full-length mirrored doors. Beyond the entrance, guests step into an expansive corridor finished in mosaic titles, its walls lined with hand-painted silks. AB Concept shaped the recessed ceiling with Chinese bat motifs and a Celestial cloud, traditional Chinese symbols that represent prosperity, happiness and longevity and recur throughout the restaurant. October 2013
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AB Concept shaped the recessed ceiling with Chinese bat motifs and a Celestial cloud, traditional Chinese symbols that represent prosperity, happiness and longevity and recur throughout the restaurant.
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Embracing the traditional qualities of their namesake stones, the Jade and Purple Jade dining rooms convey serenity, prosperity, grace and glamour.
The individual dining rooms – named Tiger Eye, Pearl, Amber, Agate, Jade and Purple Jade – radiate from this central corridor. Inspired by the auspicious character and luxury of the semi-precious stones, each salon is distinguished by its own palette and design narrative. Within each private space, the doors, furniture and walls are inlaid with the room’s namesake stone. Tiger Eye, the public dining area, is the largest of the individual salons. Accommodating up to 22 guests, AB Concept designed this room to take full advantage of the full-length windows and breathtaking views of Shanghai. Embodying the spirit of classic French design, the room’s double-height doors, cloud-shaped chandelier, marble pillars and textured carpets capture a sense of elegance. The Pearl private dining room employs a masculine scheme of dark timbers, heavy velvet fabrics and confident splashes of purple. Anchored by the 10-seater dining table, a recamier sofa runs parallel to the full-length window while Deco-inspired lighting fixtures frame the room. The Amber and Agate dining rooms can each welcome up to 10 guests. Since Shàng-Xi will be the venue of choice for discerning diners,
political leaders and business executives, the restaurant’s interiors needed to reflect a dignified grace. Yet AB Concept has skillfully struck a delicate balance, imbuing the space with an elegant yet warm atmosphere. While the Amber and Agate dining rooms express stately elegance, their sun-kissed shades of gold offset by timber accents project a vitality and natural energy. Embracing the traditional qualities of their namesake stones, the Jade and Purple Jade dining rooms convey serenity, prosperity, grace and glamour. While both salons seat twelve, Jade benefits from its corner position, allowing space for a private lounge area and highlighting the views of the surrounding greenery. Bronze finishes add warmth to the jade palette while the ceiling, inlaid with mother-of-pearl panels, introduces a new texture. As purple is the rarest colour of jade, this spacious room is suitably opulent with its rich fabrics, eclectic artifacts and a striking custom-made light fixture that evokes Deco style. To enhance Shàng-Xi’s home-like setting, AB Concept has also created intimate transitional spaces – verandahs and alcoves – between the private dining rooms. October 2013
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360° Design Ideas
The Core Of
Stylish Innovation
Innovation Text & Photos by AB Concept
AB Concept, a leading Hong Kong-based design and architectural studio, brought new bold new design for the ultimate indulgence in Bali through unveiling of the W Retreat & Spa Bali – Seminyak.
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ocated along Bali’s uber-chic Seminyak strip-home to the island’s best restaurants, galleries and designer boutiques-the W Retreat & Spa ups the ante by bringing a new level of sophistication to the area. Comprising 232 hotel rooms and 79 one, two or three-bedroom private villas, W Bali covers 31,000 sq m over four floors. AB Concept designed the interiors of this beachfront resort, including the stunning terraced lobby and W Lounge. Oversized day beds and billowing curtains inspire a relaxed vibe, while the quirky contours and palette of hot pinks and purples hint at the designers’ adventurous spirit October 2013
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“With the W Retreat & Spa Bali we are pushing boundaries for Resort hotel design, creating a distinctly unique look that still incorporates Balinese elements, but is unlike anything else on the island,�
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Befitting a hotel brand known for its no-boundaries innovations, AB Concept offers a surprising, ultra-modern twist on Balinese design. Fusing festive colours, distinctive architectural shapes and traditional elements, AB Concept has created a luxury retreat of uncompromising quality. “With the W Retreat & Spa Bali we are pushing boundaries for Resort hotel design, creating a distinctly unique look that still incorporates Balinese elements, but is unlike anything else on the island,” explains AB Concept cofounder and Director Ed Ng. While dispensing with the teak-andterrazzo formula so popular in many of Bali’s resorts, AB Concept remains respectful of the island’s rich cultural heritage. Architectural motifs reinterpret traditional Balinese art while the open-plan lobby provides natural ventilation for much of the year, blurring the boundaries between indoors and outdoors. Lampshades
woven from synthetic rattan resemble pagoda roofs while terazzo tiling, cut to resemble leaf veins, shimmer with inlaid seashells. Inspired by the colours of Bali’s sunsets and seascapes, the scheme pulls in the coastal landscape at every opportunity. From the violet-hued lustre of the lobby, to the aquatic greens of the guest retreats, AB Concept has seamlessly integrated natural elements into the design. Bed throws are hand stitched with a leaf pattern; skylights carved above the bath welcome the sunlight, and the library features furniture made of tropical timber and pillars of local volcanic stone. Adding a new level of luxury, the 79 self-contained villas offer a sense of relaxed outdoor living and boast a private pool. Delivering unrivalled levels of comfort, the three-bedroom villa’s courtyard features an outdoor bathtub, allowing guests to soak up the elements, open to the sky. www.abconcept.net October 2013
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Transforming Beachfront Experience
Sheraton Bali Kuta Resort offers an exclusive retreat with a spacious open-air terrace, outdoor rooftop pool and unrivalled panoramic views of the ocean. Ideally situated in the heart of Kuta’s Beachwalk, the resort offers 203 guest rooms and suites ranging from 46 to 265 square meters, each fitted with the signature Sheraton Sweet Sleeper® Bed, and spacious private balconies with uninterrupted views of either the Indian Ocean or the resort’s signature social courtyard.
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S Sheraton Bali Kuta Resort offers a new way of experiencing Bali with spacious open-air terraces, lush gardens and an outdoor rooftop pool with unrivaled panoramic views of the Indian Ocean.
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heraton Bali Kuta Resort houses three signature dining destinations-Feast®, an all-day dining venue with a vibrant open-kitchen overlooking the Kuta Beach; Bene, a casual rooftop Italian trattoria with beautiful ocean views setting, where guests can also relish mesmerizing views of the beautiful Bali Strait on the rooftop deck level; and The Lounge, an open-air cocktail lounge with locally-inspired drinks and beautiful Indian Ocean views.
To keep travelers fit and energized, Sheraton Bali Kuta Resort introduces Sheraton Fitness by Core Performance™ with lifestyle designed training programs and encompassing a fully equipped fitness center; Shine Spa for Sheraton that will pamper and rejuvenate guests with signature treatments blending from the East to the West with local Balinese touches; and Color Your Plate™, a simple three colors approach to a healthy food program.
Sheraton Bali Kuta Resort is part of Beachwalk-a luxurious shopping destination with more than 200 open-air style retail outlets inspired by the design of Bali’s renowned rice paddy fields. The resort is conveniently located in the heart of Pantai Kuta and just five kilometers away from Bali Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS). Sheraton Bali Kuta Resort is now pleased to announce “Glow with Shine Spa,” an exclusive package created for couples and friends to escape, indulge and restore a bit of Glow back into their lives. Located directly in the heart of Kuta Beach, Sheraton Bali Kuta Resort offers a new way of experiencing Bali with spacious open-air terraces, lush gardens and an outdoor rooftop pool with unrivaled
panoramic views of the Indian Ocean. Designed to rejuvenate and refresh, Shine Spa for Sheraton Bali Kuta Resort features a soothing and contemporary ambiance and customized treatments that are inspired by the stunning island environs. Blending the best of the East and West, Shine Spa pampers and reinvigorates guests with an extensive menu of signature treatments and experiences delivered with exceptional service including: Shine Massage, Shine Facial, Shine Body Treatment, Shine Hands & Feet, and Shine for Two. To book the Glow with Shine Spa package, or for more information and reservation about Sheraton Bali Kuta Resort, please visit www.sheraton.com/balikuta
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360° Design Ideas
Maximized Sophistication & Simplicity by Andrés Serpa
Andrés Serpa designed this modern tropical house “Orizon Residence” at Playa Grande, Costa Rica which is located just to the Las Baulas Marine National Park. The home is spacious, open, and modern, with large terraces and outside spaces to enjoy the warmth of Central America. This sustainable home was built by following traditional construction methods from the surroundings, utilizing local construction materials and by realizing the huge need to preserve the nature around.
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he combination between concrete and wood really maximized sophistication and simplicity in a single space. Orizon has easy access to the pool, here people can enjoy nature and tropical weather. Interior section, there is a brown armchair with wooden floor-directly related to the courtyard and pool. The kitchen is designed to attract, while bathrooms are designed with concrete here-interesting. One room was very comfortable working at all because you can immediately enjoy the outdoors through the room. There is also a bedroom with a large and soft mattress can make you rest comfortably.
The core of the house is the semi covered space with easy access to pool, in which one can enjoy nature, tropical weather and monkeys passing by. In this space, worldly cares can be forgotten and the human spirit is granted the freedom to dream. The Orizon house symbolizes humanity and nature co existing peacefully. According to the architects: Orizon is a village of 8 houses located in Playa Grande of 1.500m rom the Leatherback National Park in with a total of 2.640 m2 of construction on a lot of 7.115 m2 leaving 70 per cent green area. The design of the model home was designed October 2013
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The core of the house is the semi covered space with easy access to pool, in which one can enjoy nature, tropical weather and monkeys passing by. In this space, worldly cares can be forgotten and the human spirit is granted the freedom to dream. The Orizon house symbolizes humanity and nature co existing peacefully.
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to enjoy the outdoors and mountain environment. They design a central one as living, dining, entertainment, swimming pool which is the heart and hub between different environments. Orizon is designed as a beach house and almost 50 per cent target to areas covered terraces that allow relaxation and enjoyment Spa leaving a sense of where you live. www.andresserpa.com
360° Design Ideas
The Center Of
Modern Topicality by Rangsan Srirat / Photos Courtesy Sri Panwa
Visiting Sri Panwa make me feel like revisiting old friends between discerning guest, business-alike vacationers with a long-term accommodation, tropical modernity, and the upscale theme of living amidst the eclectic connection between the extreme comfort and the nature. It’s quite subjective indeed, but they actually exuded this superb feeling to me. Sri Panwa is one of only a few luxurious residential villa projects in Thailand that the hi-end customers whose only lump sum of money cannot afford to live with it while money doesn’t make the most of this villa resort, but they should also possess a sensual love of the nature since Sri Panwa is a crème de la crème of the accommodation incorporating the luxury living with the nature and tropical panorama.
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They are totally themed and similarly finished with the warm earth tone and named each villa with the name of sea fish and creatures to enhance a good connection between luxury comfort and the natural surrounding.
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deally located on the headland in the southern tip of Phuket Island, Sri Panwa is a right cozy choice if you are seeking for a pool villa accommodation with a homely feeling by the sea overlooking one of the best scenic sunset. It opened the new residential phase and development last year to achieve sophisticated taste of lifestyle and also to redefine itself as a leading tropical contemporary style while the unique touch of the infinity edge pool featured in all residential and villa units, the complete of spacious beach pool, which is set nearly 30 metres above its private beach, and full set of tropical leisure facilities make Sri Panwa a good point to start for a long vacation. Sri Panwa, a member of Small & Luxury Hotel brands of the world, highlights blissful choice of accommodation in one-to-fivebedroom pool villas and distinctive three to five-bedroom residential villas for the achievement of the ultimate indulgence of the individual, small group of friend, and large families. They are totally themed and similarly finished with the warm earth tone and named each villa with the name of sea fish and creatures to enhance
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a good connection between luxury comfort and the natural surrounding. All villas echo an unmatched sense of privacy and well-equipped with almost everything you need for a long honeymoon and vacation. They are spacious and provide guest with large free space for hosting a small barbecue party. Two-bedroom villa of the new development phase provided me with a breathtaking vista of islands and on the horizon. It is lavishly appointed with tropical modernity concept furnishing with the detailed craftsmanship as the subtle Asian influence and contemporary architecture on exterior are harmoniously blended to help emphasize the statement of the tropical contemporary context. Leisure
amenities for all personal enjoyment include swimming pool, al fresco Jacuzzi, the distinguished design of glass-enclosed bedroom and living room, outdoor soaking and rain shower, trendy and first-rate iPod, audio and video and sounding and entertainment system, full set kitchen with stove and cooking equipment, pantry and standard refrigeration, microwave, and washing machine. What also makes it so unique is that all units spectacularly afford guests and all residents with the vista view of the turquoise or azure water, serene Andaman Sea as well as the unobstructed stunning sunset and morning sun. Sri Panwa, 88 Moo 8 Sakdidej Road, Tambon Vichit, Phuket Tel. 076-371-000 www.sripanwa.com October 2013
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360° Design Ideas
Experience
The Best In Class The award-winning V Villas Hua Hin is a sophisticated tropical retreat offering exotic luxury and unique service. It’s designed for discerning guests in search of romance, revival, and recreation. The 13 exclusive pool villas that draw inspiration from the geometric patterns of terraced rice paddies and the sophistication of Italian villazzos are a private haven where guests can enjoy a life of luxury. Outstanding facilities and amenities include welcoming bedrooms, spacious en suite bathrooms fully equipped with Aigner amenities, a large private pool, iPads 2, complimentary Wi-Fi coverage of the whole resort and 24-hour butler service.
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aring Luxury and Responsible Tourism is reflected in all aspects of its operation in general. In particular, it emphasizes on waste reduction and recycling, energy management, water conservation and pollution control initiatives. It also works with the local community, and make sure that these values are reflected in our purchasing and conservation initiatives as well as in the social and cultural field. Meanwhile, the award in Thailand Boutique Award helps generate awareness and help promote the business. It’s an excellent way to build the brand image. They also make the guests more confident of their choice of hotel. The added benefit is the sense of pride the staff feels working for an award-wining property. It makes them more confident. There’s another vital advantage: awards do generate more revenue, according to the recent briefing with the General Manager. “Boutique hotel is unique and individual features an intimate, stylish appearance providing impeccable amenities. The definition as such can be rather vague. Boutique hotels are
Boutique hotel is unique and individual features an intimate, stylish appearance providing impeccable amenities. The definition as such can be rather vague. Boutique hotels are sometimes hip and at others historic.
sometimes hip and at others historic. Some are unique in design, architecture or theme. However, a boutique hotel usually distinguishes itself by its design, service and target market. Some boutique hotels are themed; many attempt to be unique by either offering themed rooms or choosing an overall theme for the hotel. A boutique hotel can be equally appropriate for business, honeymoon, or vacation.”
The target market for most boutique hotels is the 25-55-age range, most within the middle to upper income level. For some boutique hotels, the target is the corporate traveller who will provide repeat business for the hotel, refer others and is one whose business is not based on a particular season. Service might be the distinguishing feature of what classifies a hotel as a boutique hotel. The goal for a boutique October 2013
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hotel is a level of personalised service not necessarily doable in a larger hotel. At many boutique hotels, the staff may know each guest by his or her name. Most offer 24-hour guest services. Some offer the comforts of canopy beds, bathrobes and fireplaces in the lobby. Others offer healthy food choices, mind and body themes and on-site bookstores. “As a boutique hotel varies in other features, so do its technological amenities. While some offer the latest in technology, others focus on a calm and soothing environment. To some patrons, the bed and breakfast concept may be similar to that of the boutique hotel. Many boutique hotels have on-site reputable dining, as well as bar and lounge areas that are also open to the public. As the trend continues to grow, many hotels market themselves as boutique; most being small, luxury type hotels worldwide. Its next goals include aspiring more domestic and international awards to enhance the brand image and get the hotel international recognition,� said the general manager. www.v-villashuahin.com
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360° Design Ideas
An Enticing Homey
Space In Town by Rangsan Srirat
Conjuring up everything homey in order to make all residents in a residential development in the city feel like living comfortably in their own home has evolved to be an essential elemental approach when modern people are increasingly concerned about the true sense of individual comfort aside from style and other hardware and architectural design in a luxury and modern property. It’s easy these days for a mega project to create an impressive set of hardware that fits to the natural surroundings with all desirable functions in a unit, but the ability to sensually create a relationship with client or residents is another matter. There are many factors to achieve homey comfort, perhaps two things matter the most—would a project facilitate your lifestyle and how can it meet the needs of those who will make it their home and, most importantly, the unpretentious hospitality service. 50
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ocated just only 100 metres off Soi Mahadlekluang 3 and Ratchadamri BTS skytrain station on the coveted area of Rajdamri road, Anantara Baan Rajprasong Serviced Suites is a good example of the mixed development between condo and hotel within the same compound, suitable for those wishing to live in harmony with the standard of luxury comfort, privacy, and the surrounding nature. It realizes people don’t only look for location and convenience for a day-to-day basic of living, but they are also growingly in search
of residential project that sports conceptual design and style, the quality of value for money, idea in construction, and management that might exude the homey feeling to all customers or residents. Everyone has different tastes of interest and ideas when it comes to style, but they will think in the same way or share something in common when it comes to convenience and comfort. Homey comfort is a key role to create a touch of warm while the bespoken service from the accredited Anantara brand, one of the
world’s largest alliance of independent luxury hotel brands, is the magnificent composition to ensure and uplift the welcoming ambience as the design and style of all suites are finished to fulfill the needs of all single customers and an active family, ideal for both long-term corporate and short-term visitors or any sophisticaters who wish to have all the extravagant comforts of home to facilitate their lifestyle and accommodate their art and furniture collections. The development is finished in contemporary design with plenty of space for relax. You can October 2013
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All of them are harmoniously painted with soft-mute tone and artistically and stylishly furnished with elegant teak floor and fully finished with high-grade amenities and functions, which help add the warmth to the interior as its spaciousness allows for any decorating style of future owner.
choose to unwind at the outdoor Jacuzzi or sit beside the swimming pool ordering room service or lay your back and relax listening to the sound of waterfalls or perfect your golf swing with Wilding Golf training facilities. All 97 suites are divided into Superior Suite, Deluxe Suite, and Premium Suite with the size ranging from a palatial 77 square metres to expansive 156-square-metre for two-bedroom abodes with sun deck. All of them are harmoniously painted with soft-mute tone and artistically and stylishly furnished with elegant teak floor and fully finished with high-grade amenities and functions, which help add the warmth to the interior as its spaciousness allows for any decorating style of future owner.
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Each of Anantara Baan Rajprasong’s One-Bedroom Premium Suites comes with spectacular views over the Royal Bangkok Sports Club and Lumpini Park from private balconies in both the living room and bedroom. Measuring between 77 and 87 square metres, guests have a choice of a king-size or twin queen beds. The en-suite bathroom conveys a cool contemporary feel with terracotta tiles and black marble while the bath and shower areas come fully stocked with Anantara’s signature bathroom amenities. A separate kitchen space in the expansive living area provides each guest with their own dining space as well as hob, microwave and fridge-freezer. A wealth of high-tech features includes two 32-inch LCD
satellite TVs, iPod docking station, Mini Compo entertainment system and complimentary wireless internet. Looking into Two-Bedroom Deluxe Suites, it covers 156 square metres of prime central real estate, featuring two bedrooms, living area, fully-fitted kitchen with washing machine and guest cloakroom. The master bedroom is well-appointed with a king-size bed, spacious en-suite bathroom and its own private balcony, while the second bedroom features an en-suite shower room and twin queen beds. The natural color and tone of hardwood are blended as a core idea to create an enduring aesthetic appeal for residential area. A wealth of high-tech amenities including three 32-inch LCD satellite TVs, iPod docking station, and Mini Compo entertainment system are well placed in order to exactly create a customized environment that reflects your homey tastes and requirements. www.rajprasong-bangkok.anantara.com/
360째 Design Ideas
The Ultimate Comfort Within Modern Simplicity by Rangsan Srirat
People might totally view the standard of hotel resort by its appearance in facilities and amenities created to help fulfill a preferable pleasurable stay of each guest, it might be true for the sense of hardware with well-designed facilities to sport modern lifestyle, but in fact the hotel business is beyond just only the giant investment in construction work and brand marketing as the most important element to help travelers achieve a memorable traveling experience and feel the sense of second home away from home is the software in hospitality or the unpretentious service that the staff can perform.
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“Mercure” is one of the surging international hotel brands in Thailand that realizes the importance of software in human resource and training, the hotel group emphasizes on personalized service with the spontaneous offer to all individual needs, believing that such is the key ingredient to become a leader as Mercure Krabi Deevana is guaranteed to bring discerning travelers with the new era of unparalleled traveling experience.
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onveniently located at Ao Nang beach area, a 30 minute drive from Krabi International Airport, two hours from Phuket International Airport and 20 minutes from Krabi Town, Mercure Krabi Deevana features chic and luxurious accommodation in contemporary low-rise buildings. It boasts well-designed 213 guestrooms and suites, guests can enjoy the resort’s exceptional facilities and benefit from gracious and personalized service from the welcoming Mercure team. The resort offers various choices of dining and recreation, including a large lagoon-style outdoor swimming pool, a sensual spa, and outstanding meetings and events facilities for family and MICE.
Five room categories are available at Mercure Krabi Deevana; Superior, Deluxe, Deluxe Pool Access, Family Room, and Deluxe Suite. Each generously sized room and suite is decorated in a distinctly modern Thai design style to create and light and relaxed personal environment in which to enjoy an unforgettable holiday. Mercure Deevana is a kind of homely resort hotel created for family with three swimming pools connected together to enhance a sense of resort while the idea of pool-access room help maximize the leisure living and also sport the definition of a resort. “Mercure” is one of the surging international hotel brands in Thailand that realizes the October 2013
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Mercure Krabi Deevana, 186 Moo 3, Ao Nang Soi 8, Ao Nang Beach, Ao Nang, Muang, Krabi 81000 Thailand. Tel +66 (0) 7563 9999 www.mercure.com
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importance of software in human resource and training, the hotel group emphasizes on personalized service with the spontaneous offer to all individual needs, believing that such is the key ingredient to become a leader as Mercure Krabi Deevana is guaranteed to bring discerning travelers with the new era of unparalleled traveling experience. “I would like to say that we are the first and the only international hotel brand at Ao Nang, so all features, facilities and amenities, software or human resource, training, and protocol in hospitality service are what we can’t compromise to achieve international standard and guest satisfaction,” says Khun Veeranat Limprasutr, General Manager of Mercure Krabi Deevana “I consider that every investor can definitely build up any luxury and modern hardware in the hotel and resort such as hi-technology and well-designed guest room, but I would like to emphasize on software or human resource and unpretentious service as we have invested in training a lot, aiming to become a leader amidst the growing competition in Krabi’s Ao Nang area.” “Mercure has been concentrating on
customer care and personalized service; it’s the truth that we as a hotelier have been repeatedly talking about it for long time. The new technology has been increasingly playing a major role for hospitality business development, discerning travelers can currently fill out the questionnaire or make a feedback as soon as they check out, allowing us immediately realize what should maintain and improve to ensure a pleasurable stay with Mercure.” “Actually, every guests have different taste of interest and individual needs, but if they can meet the expectation or what they want in a hotel resort, it’s highly possible that they will come back to stay with a particular hotel resort again. To me, even if we are not the 5-star hotel, but it’d be great if we can remember the name of all guests and the preferable or favorite foods and special requests of all guests so as to exude a memorable traveling experience. And Mercure will focus on the spontaneous offer of help and service and I personally think that if we can immediately provide or give what they need in particular, that’s one of the key ingredients to impress guests while staying with us,” he added. October 2013
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360째 Design Ideas
The Element Of
Thai Architectural
History
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137 Pillars House revives the old world elegance of the Orient and invites guests to enjoy every modern luxury. Here, you will be led through the surrounding charms of Chiang Mai and welcome you home into pampered privacy. Its home-style residential concept allows visitors to participate and share in the richness of a likeminded international community while creating plenty of space for sublime intimacy in sumptuous suites and throughout our tropical grounds.
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Louis Leonowens Bathroom
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rchitectural historians and conservationists worked meticulously to reinforce the integrity of the original 1889 structure at 137 Pillars House. Our guests can expect the same nostalgic ambience in all 30 suites, along with the latest modern comforts and conveniences. Louis Leonowens Pool Suite features two top-tier ground floor suites each sprawl across 135 square metres, including a generous living room and super king bedroom with French doors overlooking the infinity pool, garden wall and historic pillared house. Beyond a vast walk-in closet, the en suite bathroom with dual washbasins includes a sunlit WC, sunken bath facing onto the tropical foliage, separate indoor and outdoor garden showers. More private pleasures may be enjoyed in each suite’s own 5.5 x 2.5 metre swimming pool. William Bain Terrace Suite-Overlooking the historic pillar house, infinity pool and garden wall from the upper floor, both 100-metre, one super king bedroom suites extend to a generous living room and airy, vintage tiled veranda with cane shades for privacy, rattan planter’s chair and plush day bed. Beyond a vast walk-in closet, the en suite bathroom with dual washbasins includes a sunlit WC, sunken bath facing onto the tropical foliage, separate indoor and outdoor garden.
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People, Places, Passions:
New Perspective
Of Life In Style 66
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People have different ideas when it comes to style and they have vastly differing perceptions of art and design for living. Just only one word or a sentence from a person can at least inspire you the new idea and can probably further develop the images of living or the designed framework in your heart. We sit down to talk with selected modern people at heart about living life in design and life in style towards the success and happiness.
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Life In Style
Speaking
The New Language
In Design by Rangsan Srirat / Photos courtesy AB Concept
“I don’t want people think that I just make the foothold in Thailand to make AB Concept becomes widely known as an international design company. My vision is that I just want to be part of the design community and creative industry and work with local Thai talent team to create a beautiful project through our strong architectural and interior design background.”
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hailand and the region have obviously seen the smorgasbord of international hotel chains that come to explore the tourism opportunity while the well-known Thainess or bespoke Thai hospitality service by Thai people has been playing as a sensual ingredient or software in hospitality to exude the enduring charm of hospitality industry. Apart from that, what we can also notice is the term of the amazing idea in architectural and interior design artistically created a particular establishment to maximize dynamism and vibrancy and the ultimate lifestyle indulgence that can no less provide you with new inspiration and motivation for living intelligently in the modern day of life in style. Rangsan Srirat, the editor of design-inspired Residence Magazine, caught up with the Hong Kong design maestro Mr. Ed Ng, the co-founder and director of AB Concept, one of Asia’s leading architectural and forward-looking design studios in Asia, and did one-on-one interview about the bold statement in design particularly in the hospitality industry in Thailand and the region. It’s quite the right time these days to discuss with dynamic concept in design with the internationally acclaimed design enthusiast that recently opened his office in Bangkok as property industry in the rich market is fluctuated while people don’t only look for location and convenience for a day-to-day basic of living, but they are also growingly in search of hotels resorts, condos, and some residential projects capable of sporting the conceptual design and style, the quality of value for money, and the idea in construction. Even if AB Concept has earned the reputation as the design firm of choice for the world’s leading hoteliers, luxury property developers, and premium restaurant operators since 2001, but the inner vision is not aimed at doing iconic property just in Bangkok or competing with others. There are so many amazing projects springing up in the region, and many continue to raise the bar in terms of quality, design and lifestyle. The advent of Hong Kong-based AB Concept is to bring the cross-cultural overview to create the occidental tradition and dynamic property scene with forward-thinking Thai talent workforces and to be part of the design community and creative industry as everyone has different ideas when it comes to style and design for living.
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“I don’t want people think that I just make the foothold in Thailand to make AB Concept becomes widely known as an international design company. My mind set is that I just want to be part of the design community and creative industry and work with local Thai talent team to create a beautiful project through our strong architectural and interior design background,” said Ed. “Initially, when I set up the company, dating back to the beginning, I felt I just wanted to find something extremely simple and very basic like counting a, b, c… To me, it’s pretty much like Steve Job chooses to do Apple and I think doing any design shouldn’t be complicated or intricate. That’s the behind the initial AB.” “I still keep my agenda opens as the whole reason that I decided to set my office in Bangkok aside from Hong Kong office is that I just want to form a very strong team so as to handle international projects. My vision is not just only for doing design property project in
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Bangkok, but the international arena. To me, it’s the perfect match between location in Bangkok and talent team. Bangkok is about being talent that I could see as the good addition to Hong Kong team.” “I think having the multidisciplinary team with more artistic people working in the office is very important behind the new motivation in design and they are really the source of inspiration. Firstly, I think you have to think about what story you are trying to exactly tell and then you should define the story and then put together the ideas in design. It’s like doing filming when narration of the story is essential. Before I start the design for hotels resorts, condos, and/or any residential projects, I will start with the narration and be more specific about what kind of story we are trying to tell and then put together all the elements in design and techniques.” Property in Thailand and exotic destinations in East Asia is still the largest asset class in
property investment. The design and architectural idea will be more customer-based. Meanwhile, the concern about space management, green and eco-friendly theme in design, resort-alike ambience with homely feel, not to mention to the innovative design will be used as the quintessential tactic to edge out the competitors in the high-end market, where people will be following the trend to stay in the mix-used residential development to maximize their unique lifestyle and luxury comfort in the city. Ed Ng’s designs reveal his genuine respect for history, culture, and the arts. While his work draws inspiration from the local couture, he reinterprets the traditional motifs or cultural touchstones to add a contemporary twist. His designs, richly detailed with a couturier-like precision, and always contain an element of surprise through choosing quirky the unexpected colors, pieces of decorations to ensure the interior will not be completely predictable as discerning travelers might have commonly seen
or experienced in other luxury sensual hotels resorts across Asia. “When it comes to working with hospitality project, we need to know the brand very well and see how we can do for it, including know what we can do and what we cannot do and the location is also very important. Once I did a project in India, I learnt about the core value of the brand where I can manipulate my idea in design with using different kinds of stone work and marble stone patching. It was actually the location and part of the culture, and history that allowed us to do beautiful stone work. Such is an amazing combination of local color and culture with my idea. And that’s how I response to the local culture as well.” Mr. Ed Ng also stressed the three dimensions in design-The Architectural Precision, CouturierLike Craftsmanship, and Sensual Interiors-which such fundamentals been taken with the company for more than 10 years. Architecture, he explained, it has to be well-planned and well functional with right proportion and scaled and
the city’s French concession to create an intimate haven of discreet luxury, each salon distinguished by its own individual palette and design narrative. The stylish reception-featuring beige parchment panels complemented with bold bronze accents and jade inserts-curves towards full-length mirrored doors. Intimate transitional spaces of verandahs and alcoves are weaved in between the private dining rooms to enhance Shàng-xi’s residential feel. In Hong Kong, AB Concept has artfully overseen signature items from Ralph Lauren’s collection of furniture, fabrics and accessories to create a sublime show flat at No. 39 Conduit Road. And the end result is a residence that embodies artisanal luxury and unforced elegance inspired by the brand’s distinctive prep-school style, a college library was used as the design narrative. Meanwhile, The Masterpiece stands as one of the tallest residential buildings in Hong Kong created for residents who appreciate premium luxury, the apartments are arranged
“Initially, when I set up the company, dating back to the beginning, I felt I just wanted to find something extremely simple and very basic like counting a, b, c… To me, it’s pretty much like Steve Job chooses to do Apple and I think doing any design shouldn’t be complicated or intricate. That’s the behind the initial AB.”
simplicity form like the skeleton of the human being. Couturier-Like is how you can attire or dress up with quality details and selected materials. Lastly, the Sensual perspective in interior is the reflection of personality and the way to create enhancing and captivating ambience at an establishment. That’s the quality or our DNA in design that AB Concept’s conveyed as the design philosophy. He added that the green concept is also included in the quality of being “Architectural Precision”. AB Concept has been behind some of the world’s most buzzed-about hospitality projects including the W Retreat & Spa in Bali, Shangri-La’s Far Eastern Plaza Hotel, Tainan and the spa at the Mandarin Oriental Singapore, including the W Hotel Beijing, China. The recent bespoke beauties include the elegant Shàng-xi Chinese Restaurant at Four Seasons, Pudong, China, 39 Conduit Road, Hong Kong, and The Masterpiece in Hong Kong. Shàng-xi Chinese Restaurant embodies understated elegance and the reinterpreted neoclassical style for a modern setting, Shanghai’s rich history is combined with the architectural forms of
between the 27-67th floors for the ultimate residential experience. Its Star Dust duplex’s double-height windows and semi-circle layout provide sweeping 180-degree views of Hong Kong. The lower level comprises the entertainment areas, kitchen and guest bedroom while upstairs includes the Master Bedroom and ensuite, two additional bedroom suites and individual family room. “It’s a very tough question to answer about the most outstanding design project of mine ever done. And I will normally say “The next project”, this is because the next move is the best one I am going to do or achieve and it’s going to be the best project I will work with. You know, every time when I finished a project, I could learnt and was very happy and it made me know that the next project will be even better and more exciting. In general, the projects that I worked with I felt very happy at the result as we got lots of freedom and support from the clients.” “About my style and concept, generally, I don’t want to do it in a certain style. My ideal artist is Pegaso and when he finished a particular pattern in art and design, he would change
again in the next art piece. Likewise my own style, once I did and finished with the minimalistic concept and then I will change and don’t want to be minimalistic again and don’t want to stick to any particular pattern in design. Personally, I enjoy doing the design like the movie director who can indefinitely film any different styles, themes, and genres. Anyway, the most important thing for the designer is that you have to have the skill and know how to put together the story through techniques. That’s the way I am and how I still enjoy being the designer as I can do something different every time.” “To be honest, all interior designs are the applied art or commercial art. Basically, the nature of interior designer, especially for the hotel industry, you just have to understand the brand, the budget, and the construction and then you have to produce the best according to such given elements. And interior designer should be able to educate the client about the way and reason behind the design for the most advanced benefit of customers, visitors, and residents. It’s not just for my dream in design, it’s reason for the best of the project.” October 2013
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Going Where Ideas Take Shape
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People love to indulge or spend their lifestyle traveling, living, eating and drinking, and staying in well-designed ambience and destination. We will let you know the latest update derived from design destinations where the idea takes shape in Thailand and Asia-Pacific, which may make you fancy and enhance new idea in living. You are moving towards living intelligently, traveling intelligently, dining, eating, drinking intelligently, and luxuriating intelligently on the modern design and exotic destinations both in Thailand and Asia-Pacific.
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Traveler
Home
to Kaleidoscopic
Floral of All Seasons by Story & Photos Courtesy THAI
Sapporo is a city of multihued romance. Simply strolling around beneath whispering cherry trees, follow the fragrance of lavenders, lilies, roses and wild flower blossoms to numerous festive parks for a picnic, sitting at a table for two in garden restaurant for Kitano Gourmet and Sapporo beer, paddling a quiet canoe through many moss-filled wilding streams or spent an afternoon wandering around century-old forts and clock towers. These are the moments that inspire visitors to the island of Hokkaido to fall in love.
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apporo, one of the nation’s youngest and the fifth largest city, is known as the capital of Hokkaido where the important river flowing through a plain in Ainu language. Nestled in the scenic central part of Japan’s northernmost island, a former mystical samurai town, is a newly westernization developed city boasts as abundance of hidden getaways to get you in the mood for love of all seasons.
Sapporo City, it’s often difficult to make time for romance in life. Affectionate walks, especially with someone you love, around the historic town of Sapporo gives visitors a good perspective on life in the mountains circa early 1800s, and appreciate how the city has been developed. The size of the city also helps to make visitors feel at ease quickly. Once you’ve found a few favorite spots you feel right at home. Strolling down the streets you’ll see western-style architecture mixed with modern buildings and tradition Japanese residential area where remnants of wood houses continue to weather the cold wind. Small homes on modest plots of land with gardens, flowers and trees surround the town center retain its original charm and subtle elegance.
Flight Information THAI is operating direct flights between Bangkok and Sapporo, Hokkaido utilising A330-300. Flight TG 670 will leave Suvarnabhumi at 23.45 hrs. on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday, reaching the New Chitose Airport, 45 kilometer south of Sapporo, at 08.00 hrs. of the next day. Meanwhile, TG 671 departs from the New Chitose Airport at 10.45 hrs. and arrives at Suvarnabhumi at 16.15 hrs. For more information, please visit www.thaiairways.com
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Sapporo City, it’s often difficult to make time for romance in life. Affectionate walks, especially with someone you love, around the historic town of Sapporo gives visitors a good perspective on life in the mountains circa early 1800s, and appreciate how the city has been developed.
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Spring, April – early June, is a time of blossoms, rainbow wildflowers and rich greenery. Summer, mid June – August, is the perfect time for adventurous activities such as rafting in Furano, inflatable kayak, hot air ballooning, fishing, hiking, horse trekking, and mountain bike as well as romantic night panoramic view watching. The fall, September, is clear, crisp, and brilliant with the dark night sky full of twinkling little stars. Autumn, October-November, has been popular for colourful autumn leaves, known as koyo in Japanese, as well as scenic beauty of vibrant colours of dazzling red, orange, and yellow leaves peek from a blanket of green, giving the mountains a multicoloured dimension. Low humidity makes the summers pleasant, while in winter, starting from December through March, you can enjoy downhill ski or snow board in many world-class ski resorts. Hokkaido Island is also famous for its unspoiled atmosphere that includes active volcanoes, large lakes, vast virgin forests and natural hot springs. Romantically superb for honeymooners and newlyweds to soak in a hot tub watching snow-capped mountain ranges while snowflakes fall.
1. Ninguru Terrace 2.-3. Flower Land 4. Ainu Museum 5.-7. Flower Land 8. Northern Horsepark 9. Yubari melon
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Floral & Seasons are intimately bound to each other. The fair weather from May through June leads into a comfortable summer climate draws visitors both from within Japan and abroad. All come to see colourful varieties of flowers dotted the breath-taking countryside. Cherry blossoms, a symbol of Japan, and lavenders are the showiest spring floras on this tourist destination between Sapporo and Furano. But it’s the wildflowers, that provide the most joyous proof that spring has arrived, especially in mid July when Hokkaido’s
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mountainous valleys are covered in purple lavender everywhere. “Cherry blossom viewing” is the way Japanese people appreciate cherry blossoms at their best by seating together underneath full-bloom trees over drinking sake or having meals. Hence, well-scheduled trips are timed to coincide with the best seasons for viewing various blossoms in bloom when rolling hills sprinkled with wild flowers, moss-covered river banks and warm cherry blossom orchardsthey are the landscapes of serene beauty.
You can view spots of flowers in and around Sapporo and there are numerous flower fields of various sizes all across Furano, as well as the beautiful hilly landscape at Biei’s “Patchwork Road”. Many other sprouts make upper north Japan an attractive destination outside of the lavender season, buds include grape blossoms, tulips, roses, poppies and lupines from June, marigolds and lilies from July, and sunflowers, salvias and cosmos from August and September.
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Here’s some information on Lavender season in case you are thinking of going to Hokkaido. Late June, Mid August Farm Tomita (Nakafurano), Kitanishisyama Lavender Garden (Nakafurano) Early July – Late July, Higashiyama Lavender Farm (Niseko), Miyama Toge Lavender Garden (Niseko) Early July – Mid August, Zerubu-no-oka (Biei), Kano Farm (Kamifurano), Hinode Lavender Garden (Kamifurano), Saiko-no-Sato (Nakafurano) Mid July – Mid September, Potpourri-noSato (Furano) Lavender Products: are available in Nakafurano and other areas. Products that make the most of lavender perfume, potpourri and incense are suitable as souvenirs. And while you are there at Sapporo, don’t be missed to try dark beer ice cream and lavender soft ice cream, a must-try experience you’ll never forget and of course the Sapporo premium beer. For more information, visit www.farm-tomita@co.jp Souvenirs To Remind You Of Hokkaido With dairy farming flourishing, Hokkaido
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10. Ainu Museum 11. Farm Tomita 12. Kirin Beer Garden 13. Self-Made Sushi 14. Shiroi Koibito park 15. Furano Ropeway
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has a variety if confectioneries and chocolates made with fresh dairy products. In addition, a wide range of seafood snacks made from each area and limited products making the best use of local specialties are available. Royce Chocolate: fresh creamy chocolate made with plenty of fresh cream produced in Hokkaido, this smooth tasting chocolate melts in your mouth. Shiroi Koibito (White beloved ones): White chocolate made with fresh milk produced in Hokkaido is sandwiched between light cookies. Jaga Pokkuru: made with potatoes, this snack provides the delicious flavor of the vegetables. Caramel: features the natural flavors of ingredients from Hokkaido, including melon, milk, corn and milk. Smoke-dried oil pickled scallops: these scallops are pickled in natural salt and vegetable oil and smoke dried to preserve their fresh flavour. Transportation The JR Sapporo Station is not only the central terminal station for people commuting from the suburbs, but also a gateway for tourists from domestic locations and abroad. The JR Sapporo Station’s North Plaza comprises of underground pedestrian passages, a bus terminal, parking facilities, and an underground snow melting tank. Located on the opposite side of the station, the South Plaza is a public space often used as a meeting up point for people heading out on the town. It can also accommodate large scale events like the annual “Yosakoi Soran Festival,”drawing crowds up to two million during the five-day event.
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Dining Room
Neo-Innovative Japanese Delight
by Rangsan Srirat
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People are not only demanding for the deliciousness of the meal, but are also concerning of the high standard of the food preparation, presentation, the quality, and the freshness for healthy life. Japanese eatery stands the right position to gain benefits and meet such concept of modern living and dining in style.
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1. Private Room 2. Chef Shinsuke Yonekawa 3. Dining area 4. chef’s special carpaccio 5. wagyu beef shabu shabu salad with sesame and ponzu 6. snow fish with mushroom butter sauce sauce 7. Salmon lover box 4
3 Kisso, 8th Fl, The Westin Grande Sukhumvit, Sukhumvit Rd, Bangkok Open Daily (11.30am-2.30pm) and (6pm-10.30pm) Tel +66 (0) 2207 8000 E-mail: kisso.bangkok@westin.com or visit www.kissobangkok.com
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fter the painstaking renovation plan, Kisso Japanese restaurant is back with a new look, refreshing concept and the irresistibly enhanced atmosphere. Kisso Japanese restaurant is one of the noticeable dining outlets of The Westin Grande Sukhumvit, Bangkok. Kisso is a modern contemporary Japanese cuisine where Japanese food critics can come to indulge the quality, authenticity, and modern twists, especially the freshness, whish is the essence of Japanese eatery that make Kisso excels beyond the expectation and other Japanese eateries in the vicinity. Renovations have made for a strikingly contemporary interior yet one balanced with warm and cosy elements, for example, rows of earthenware pots rising high above wood flooring. The dining area is very spacious and airy and table settings are nicely simple. The 80
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sushi bar is stocked with a bright array of raw ingredients and appears as the very essence of a Japanese eatery. Kisso is the clear evidence and one of a few Japanese restaurants that doesn’t adhere to the draconian ideals of authenticity. It could be other, contemporary or modern, and fusion. The atmosphere is simply modern Japanese complimented by minimalist furniture and sake stack. Interior of the whole is apparently stylishly contemporary than the previous look while the art of partitioning helps make the dining area more spacious. The table setting is quite simple. Don’t worry about too much eating tools and equipment like Western cuisine. If you like to keep Japanese authenticity through eating fresh fish on counter, Sushi bar teeming with the lines up of raw and fresh aquatic meats is available opposite to the main dining area to enjoy fresh sushi and see chef in action to prepare your order in the open kitchen style. Kisso also features one western style private dinging room and two traditional Tatami rooms with define hay-weaved floor for an
ultimate eatery experience and get the true feeling of the traditional Japanese eatery with your groups of friends or your business adventure while enjoying raw fish. Japanese delight has been regarded as one of the world’s healthy foods. Kisso accentuates on freshness of the ingredients. Most of the key ingredients used in its array of mouth-watering specialties are imported from Japan, helping to define the authentic taste of Japanese. Looking at the menu, Japanese delicacies here are available for both a la carte and set menu. There are lists of hot and cold appetizers, wide selection of sushi and sashimi items, noodle selection, grills, soups and salads. Recommended dishes include chef’s original sashimi carpaccio (Bt450), Sumibiyaki unagi no sunomono (Charcoal grilled eel, cucumber and wakame seaweed with sweet vinegar) (Bt320), Salmon zukushi bento (Bt580), Wagyu shabu-shabu salad (Bt580). And Grilled Snow Fish with natural salt and teriyaki sauce (Bt600) in the lunch set menu. All are available with reasonable price.
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1. Oyster with bacon bouillon and squid 2. Lobster, grilled asparagus, mussel 3. Cod, zucchini, goat milk and melon 4. Saddle of lamb, grilled cucumber 5. Langoustine, green peas, raspberry
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Superb Fish
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& Seafood Cooked
By Michelin Star
VIE Hotel Bangkok and V Villas Hua Hin are inviting you to experience the finest creations from the sea and enjoy two tempting 6-course dinners made to perfection by world renown 2 Michelin Star Chef Alexandre Couillon from France during 3rd and 5th October, 2013.
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n Thursday, 3rd October at VIE Hotel Bangkok and on Saturday, 5th October at V Villas Hua Hin, Chef Alexandre Couillon will serve an irresistible signature 6-course seafood dinner, which will include his famous homemade seaweed bread using the natural sea salt of Noirmoutier Island, a complimentary gift of this perfect salt for spa, and an array of never seen before delights, fabulous desserts, and of course the impeccable signature seafood dishes that have earned his worldwide recognition. Don’t miss to catch up with his signature dish “Lobster, grilled asparagus, mussel and salicornia. The award-winning Alexandre, which has also been called a superb “fish and seafood cook” due to his excellent handling of the changing catch of the day with stylish and complex recipes, and his chef’s assistants will ensure your absolute dining enjoyment. The dinner is priced at Bt7,000.- net for food only or Bt9,000.- net for food and selected wine pairing. Extra and special at V Villas Hua Hin! A villa package with 2 Michelin Stars dinner is offered with the best deal from 5th – 6th October 2013. 1 night stay in a 2-Bedroom Pool Villas for Bt45,000.- net, including Alexandre Couillon’s 6-course Michelin Dinner, and V Breakfast for 4 persons. 1 night stay in a 3-Bedroom Pool Villas for Bt60,000.- net, including Alexandre Couillon’s 6-course Michelin Dinner, and V Breakfast for 6 persons. For more details and reservations, please contact: 02 309 3939, E-mail: info@viehotelbangkok.com October 2013
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Rest In Style
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The Gateway To Classic-Modern Heaven
by Rangsan Srirat
The resort with visibly innovative design and sophisticated construction will come to no avail if it’s unable to help guests achieve the superb private retreat and fails to deliver them the maximum privacy and comfort. At the Regent Phuket Cape Panwa, it’s ensconced with the best of both world of hospitality service, an ingredient for the enduring charm of hotel in Thailand, and the world of design and enticing classic architectural style to render the poshness of the western hemisphere and also to redefine the luxury experience and a memorable melody of living on island.
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ocated in the secluded bay of Cape Panwa next to its own private beach and looking out to the Andaman Sea, Regent Phuket Cape Panwa stands out with the classic contemporary style, the exterior architecture and colonial structure of the resort exude the charm and fascination of the bygone days of old Thailand in the 19th century. The interior of each room echoes Asian touches with the western twisted to help reborn the classical and traditional sense. Its villa and suite type is where you can totally indulge in the well-designed set of hardware in hospitality service to ensure maximum comfort as the ocean view is complimented to enhance an odyssey of romance.
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The resort features 105 exquisite units comprising 35 Pool Villas, 48 Suites and 22 Pavilions. We spent a couple nights there at the “The Pool Villa”, the new DNA of classic pool villa concept in Phuket offering an exclusive environment with private Jacuzzi and pool. It features spacious living area, oversized bathroom and the separated outdoor rain shower. The most prominent thing is the white color and light tone that dominate both exterior and interior, particularly at the bathroom. The Jacuzzi is also added to make a well balance with the luxurious ambience and decoration while the striking wooden floor and high ceiling concept help express warmth, spaciousness, relax, and the harmony with the surrounding nature of the resort. The Pool Villa is exclusively appointed with elegant wood floor and natural timbers to add warmth and comfort as the addition of dark brown wood furnishing with cream tones is considered a good statement to achieve a harmonious décor and also to enhance the good connection between luxury comfort and the nature. We think it’d be a very perfect hideaway if you are looking for an impressive
The outstanding part of this tomorrow’s name in vintage-modern living is the concern of the nature and the concept in design, aiming to maximize the harmony between the luxury design and the surrounding green areas as the overall space and form at the common areas are extensively created for customers or guests to feel more a dreamy relaxing day.
romantic honeymoon in classical style as the balcony of each room type provides guests with the vistas view of Andaman sea. Meanwhile, the concept of high ceiling has been blissfully used to make the area of all units more spacious and help to exude the cozy feeling. The overall design is modern contemporary and naturally perfect, tropical, exotic, and enticing. The outstanding part of this tomorrow’s name in vintage-modern living is the concern of the nature and the concept
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1. Regent Phuket Cape Panwa Pavilion 2. Suite Living Room 3. Pavilion view 4. Suite Bathroom 5. Dining Table 6. The Library Lounge with daylight 7. The Library Lounge artwork 8. Regent Phuket Cape Pool Villa Bedrrom 9. Pool Villa Living area 10. Pool Villa Bathroom
Regent Phuket Cape Panwa 84 Moo 8, Sakdidej Road Tambon Vichit, Cape Panwa Phuket 83000 Thailand Tel +66 7620 0800 Fax +66 7620 0803 www.regenthotels.com/Phuket
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in design, aiming to maximize the harmony between the luxury design and the surrounding green areas as the overall space and form at the common areas are extensively created for customers or guests to feel more a dreamy relaxing day. Thailand is one of a few countries in the world to have the legalize standard of the spa. The result at the end of the day at the Regent Phuket Cape Panwa should be the spa indulge n c e , which is an essential guide to pampering and inner tranquility while the blend of innovative technology-driven approach will help restore the harmony of body and mind and the impressive wellness amidst the tropical-inspired ambience, which is regarded as natural medical doctor to help calm down your mind and spirit. Regent Phuket Cape Panwa is offering unique accommodation and spa treatments at special prices until the 31 October 2013, in which guests can indulge themselves in truly relaxing getaways at their Suite or Pool Villa with inclusive wellness options. Regent’s Wellness Package features a wide range of massages and
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treatments, harmonizing Chinese and Thai traditional therapies. The selection of treatments includes the 90-minute signature Regent Wave Massage, the 120-minute Traditional Thai Massage, choice of 25-minute Warm Bamboo Rolling, a 40-minute Chinese Abdominal Massage or a 120-minute Traditional Thai Herbal Compress. Visitors are guaranteed to enjoy the full benefit and leisurely relish in an impeccable flavor of Thai hospitality service amidst the indisputably superb vicinity, not to mention to its element of Thainess and service-mind of Thai people, which will help deliver customers a uniquely occidental lifestyle in the oriental and classic-modern ambience as the homely comfort is still retained.
UPDATE
Onyx Signs Two Amari Deals In China Thailand’s Onyx Hospitality Group has unveiled plans to bring its Amari brand to China, with the opening of Amari Huidong in Guangdong province and Amari Dali in Yunnan in 2016. Located just east of Huizhou, in the Pearl River Delta region of southern China, Amari Huidong will be located in the Xun Liao Bay Resort Area, which occupies a 1.2km stretch of coastline including a 500-metre beach. The resort will feature 150 rooms, two restaurants, lobby and poolside bars, meeting rooms and a spa. Amari Dali meanwhile, will be located in a mountainous region in southwest China’s Yunnan province popular with tourists. Overlooking Erhai Lake, the property will feature 260 rooms, two restaurants, meeting space, a swimming pool, gym and spa. Onyx currently operates Shama serviced residence properties in Shanghai, Dalian and Hong Kong, as well as an Ozo midscale hotel in Hong Kong. Amari is the company’s upscale brand, and currently has a portfolio of 13 hotels-12 in Thailand and one in Qatar. It also plans to move into Bali.
Prestigious Culinary Delight Michelin star chef Thomas Kammeier from Berlin will be coming to show his culinary delight at Elements restaurant, The Okura Prestige Bangkok, for an extended ‘Food is Art’ fine dining experience. From 15th to 19th October he will be demonstrating his exceptional culinary skills at Elements with a series of special luncheon and dinner menus. The six-course dinner menu includes goose foie gras with a Pattaya mango sorbet and braised Wagyu beef ‘teppan-yaki cut’ served with celeriac and Périgord truffles. The main course alternative is loup de mer (European seabass). The lunch menu is priced at Bt2,200 and Bt4,500 for dinner. For more information and reservations, please contact +66 (0) 2687 9000 or fb@okurabangkok.com
Time To Rest In Style Now, it’s time to rest in style at the newly built Centara Grand Phratamnak Resort Pattaya. It features 165 spacious rooms and suites, which are done through stylish and elegant design and with space ranging between 36 and 88 square metres, including a large furnished balcony. A third of all guestrooms offer two double beds, making them suitable for up to two adults and two children, while each Deluxe Family Residence offers plenty of space and bunk beds in a separate area for the youngsters. Guests staying in designated rooms and Luxury Ocean Vista Suites are entitled to Club privileges including use of the meeting facilities and access to the Club Lounge, where five meal presentations are served daily. For more info, contact +66 (0) 3830 6337 or visit www.centarahotelsresorts.com
Thai Hospitality Expands to Grand China Asian Pacific hospitality management company, Boutique Hospitality Management Asia (BHMAsia) has signed a strategic partnership agreement with China-based The Miracle Moment Hospitality Management, an experienced international team with sales and business offices in more than 10 cities in China and Asia Pacific, to facilitate its expansion into the country. Miracle Moment owns, such as Shanghai, Shenzchen, Manila, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Tokyo, etc. The agreement authorizes The Miracle Moment to franchise the brands, products and related business of BHMAsia in China. The brands include X2 – Cross To, Away, Le Bayburi, Yan Spa and The Case Hotels. The first Yan Spa in China is expected to open by the end of 2013 in Hainan China, with another 8 hospitality projects in the pipeline for 2014. 86
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The Lobster Love Affair LUCE Italian Restaurant at Eastin Grand Sathorn will be presenting its most utterly irresistible seafood promotion to date through the launch of “Lobster Love Affair” in October. A superb a la carte menu of Canadian lobster delights for those who are just crazy You can sample an array of Canadian lobster-created delicacies including lobster flan with crispy focaccia slices and curly salad leaves, Italian-style “Lobster Guazzetto” broth with white beans and cherry tomatoes, lobster risotto, a choice of pastas with lobster and zucchini cream sauce, spaghetti with broiled lobster in Pinot Grigio wine and Pachino tomatoes and even more succulent selections. Available from 1st - 31st October 2013. For more info, contact +66 (0) 2210 8100.
Novotel’s First Hotel In Danang Accor announced the newly-built Novotel Danang Premier Han River is the tallest building in Danang, Vietnam. The property’s 323 rooms and suites all come with either a balcony or a terrace, while hotel facilities include three F&B outlets, a fitness centre, sauna, spa and outdoor swimming pool. The hotel also features more than 800m² of conference and banqueting space, including a ballroom. Novotel Danang Premier Han River joins two other Accor hotels in the city, the Grand Mercure Danang and Pullman Danang Beach Resort. It also brings Novotel’s Vietnamese portfolio to four hotels, including locations in Nha Trang, Ho Chi Minh City and Halong Bay.
Minor’s First Property in Cambodia Minor Hotel Group (MHG) announced its first property in Cambodia through the acquisition of the majority ownership of the Sothea Boutique Resort in Siem Reap, which will be rebranded to Anantara Angkor Resort & Spa later this year. This latest addition to MHG’s portfolio takes the total number of properties in operation to 95 and adds a new country, taking the total to fourteen. Anantara Angkor Resort & Spa will be a 39-suite boutique resort in Siem Reap, home to the UNESCO World Heritage Angkor Wat temples, Cambodia’s most visited destination. The luxurious new addition to Anantara’s portfolio will bring the brand’s experience and discovery-led hospitality to the Cambodian market for the first time and will become the seventh country for the fast expanding brand.
Intriguing Chefs’ Table Experience Mei Jiang invites Cantonese cuisine fans to experience the full force of its creative passion up close and personal while seated in a special private room with a direct view into the kitchen. Guests are also invited to tour the state-of-the-art kitchen to witness each dish being assembled, using ingredients uncompromisingly selected for their quality and authenticity. The chefs’ culinary expertise duly renders them worthy of the restaurant’s reputation, and to further intensify the exposure to refined Cantonese dining, the dishes are optionally paired with carefully selected Chinese teas. The “Signature” menu is priced Bt6,800 and Bt7,600 with premium tea pairings. For more info, contact Food & Beverage Department at +66 (0) 2626 1841 or via e-mail atdiningpbk@peninsula.com
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Hokkaido Seafood Sensation Yamazato, the signature Japanese restaurant at The Okura Prestige Bangkok, will be showcasing some of the world’s finest seafood caught in the waters off the Japanese island of Hokkaido, starting October 14 until November 30, 2013. The menu embraces sushi, sashimi, tempura, grilled and rice dishes that will please aficionados of seafood from this region. Master Chef Shigeru will also preparing a very special crab hot pot to the menu, which will be served for a minimum of two persons. For more info, contact +66 (0) 2687 9000.
Sunday Delight DoubleTree by Hilton Sukhumvit Bangkok introduces its new “DeeLite Sunday Brunch” at Dee Lite restaurant. Guests can indulge in a medley of local and international food and engage in entertaining activities including face painting, glitter tattoo and a bouncing castle-all free of charge. Complimentary culinary offerings include pizza and cookie-baking workshops, as well as custom signature mocktail mixing lessons. Kids are entertained by the Cookie Clown throughout the Brunch. The price starts at Bt1,500 net for adults and includes a welcome drink. Kids under five years old eat for free. For more info, contact +66 (0) 2649 6666.
Imperial Revitalize Package Revitalize top to toe with special treatment “Imperial Revitalize Package” at Imperial Spa, The Imperial Queen’s Park Hotel, Bangkok. Relax your mind and spirit by the touch of the signature “Imperial Massage” to increase flexibility, circulation, and enhance the body’s natural recovery process. Come and experience the mental relaxation combined with our coffee scrub that will help tightening blood vessels and improves the circulation and Jurlique Facial to sweat away toxins and make your face glow and radiance. For more information and reservations, please call 02 261 9000 ext. 5115, 5120.
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Autumnal Tastes From Japan Throughout October 2013 at YTSB (Yellow Tail Sushi Bar) in VIE Hotel Bangkok, you are in for a memorable treat as Master Japanese chef Yoji Kitayama will bring out the best seasonal delights of autumn from Japan. A choice of four special sets are provided, and each offers selected dishes available only at their most succulent in season: Magaki, offering savoury raw and roasted rock oyster; Akagai, with ark shell sushi or sashimi; Sanma, with generous helpings of Pacific Saury prepared in various ways; and Ise-Ebi, Ise spiny lobster served as sushi, sashimi or grilled with delicate sea urchin roe. Enjoy the rare autumnal tastes of Japan at YTSB for an experience you will never forget. For reservations, contact +66 (0) 2309 3939
Phuket King’s Cup Regatta 2013
The 3rd Tango Fiesta Dream Hotel Bangkok in cooperation with The Bangkok Tango community invite you to heat up the dancing floor with “The 3rd Tango Fiesta” at Flava Restaurant and Bar on Sunday of October 27th, 2013 from 6 p.m. until midnight. The fantastic Tango Night will feature dance workshops as well as extravaganza performances by renowned international dance teachers and local artists. The special show is highlighted by the popular Argentine Maestros couple, Julieta Biscione & Roberto Castillo. They developed their Tango from some of the top teachers and choreographers of Tango Argentino such as Carlos Rivarola, Carlos and Rosa Peréz etc. and have been presented at most important theatres and Tango festivals in Switzerland, USA, Brazil, China, France and many countries. For more info, contact +66 (0) 2254 8500 Always bearing in mind the four key elements in producing each ladies’ collection-feminity, style, grace and nature, Franck Muller draws inspiration from mother nature in this stunning new collection-Quatre Saisons (which means Four Seasons in English). This poetic vision was highlighted during the Renaissance in all the artistic fields: poetry, paintings-the famous Allegory of Spring by Botticelli, sculpture, and music-Vivaldi’s Four Seasons. Today the Franck Muller Manufacture is in its turn honouring nature by revisiting its famous Double Mystery through its Double Mystery Quatre Saisons re-creation. This highly vivid timepiece comes with coloured precious stones decorating the case and the dial, thus creating four harmonious colour combination, each representing a season.
The Vivaldi Four Seasons
The Phuket King’s Cup Regatta is famed for being Asia’s largest major boating event. Recognised throughout the eastern hemisphere as the premier sailing event of its kind, the Phuket King’s Cup Regatta will once more put on a spectacular display of the finest sailing talent from around the world, competing in Andaman Sea off Phuket Island, to win the ‘must-have’ royal trophy in all of Asia, from 30th November-6th December 2013. Various comprehensive sponsorship packages and partnership opportunities are available, and include corporate hospitality as part of a range of inclusive benefits. To discover how an alliance with the Phuket King’s Cup Regatta can bring highly engaging public relations opportunities for sponsors, please contact Koravic Bhanubandh Na Ayudhaya at email: pkcrsecretaryoffice@gmail.com
Prestige Gift By Modern Diamond Modern Diamond, a leading diamond design introduces its latest fine jewelry collection, crafted specially for woman in your life to let her know just how special she is. The new collections call ‘Queen of Heart’, ‘Embrace’ and ‘Full of Love.’ Available now at Modern Diamond counters in leading department stores nationwide. For more details, please contact at Tel 0-2679-8848.
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Evolution & Identity
Life In The Cool Blue Breitling offers its vision of summer reflecting the sky, the sea and boundless horizons with its total blue-look Superocean 42 diver’s watch that brings a fresh and original touch to every wrist. Movement: Breitling Caliber 17, officially chronometer-certified by the COSC, selfwinding, high-frequency (28,800 vibrations per hour), 25 jewels. Calendar. Case: steel, 2,000-piece limited series. Water-resistant to 1,500 m/5,000 ft. Screwlocked crown. Ratcheted unidirectional rotating bezel. Cambered sapphire crystal, glareproofed on both sides. Diameter: 42 mm Dial: Mariner blue. Strap: blue rubber Diver Pro III. Breitling Superocean 42 is ready for you to try on at Pendulum Gaysorn on 1st Floor. T. 0 2656 1116-7 Pendulum Emporium G Floor T. 0 2664 8377 Pendulum Siam Paragon M Floor T. 0 2610 9423
For the watchmaker Mido, the extraordinary architecture of a monument is synonymous with a mark of true design, just like the Commander. Equipped with an automatic movement, this new chronograph has a sporty look. The dial, with its sunray satinated finish, is adorned with three snailed anthracite counters. The faceted appliques are subtly reminiscent of the latticework of the Eiffel Tower-an edifice with a strong identity, similar to that conveyed by the Commander at Mido, a collection appreciated since its creation in 1959. The Mido Commander Chronograph is equipped with an automatic movement with top finishing and is fitted with a transparent case back enabling the finely decorated automatic movement to be admired. With a diameter of 42.50 mm and water-resistant up to a pressure of 5 bar (50 m / 165 ft), the Commander Chronograph will appeal to every man who admires fine watch making and appreciates Swiss tradition and expertise.
The Spirit Of Timeless Innovation
Luminor Marina 8 Days The power reserve of eight days is part of the history of Officine Panerai. P.5000 calibre, the new hand-wound movement with an eight-day power reserve which makes its debut in the new Luminor Marina 8 Days and Luminor Marina 8 Days Oro Rosso. The two new timepieces respect the classic aesthetics of the Luminor Marina, notable for the minimalist design of the case and dial. The case is 44mm in diameter and it is immediately recognisable by the bridge device with locking lever to protect the winding crown. It is available in AISI 316L stainless steel or in 5Npt red gold, a distinctive alloy with a high percentage of copper that gives it a particularly deep colour, and a certain amount of platinum that helps to prevent oxidation. 90
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Ulysse Nardin, the Leader in Timepiece Innovation, Shows its Spirit with the Freak Phantom. The iconic Freak marked a milestone in haute horology in 2001, revealing groundbreaking advancements in technology, design and materials, particularly the use of silicium. The limited-edition Freak Phantom continues the evolution of this notorious family of watches. Ulysse Nardin is acclaimed for its thousands of “firsts” in watchmaking, and the launch of the 2001 Freak turned the industry upside down and positioned Ulysse Nardin in a realm all its own. Discover the true embodiment of luxury with Ulysse Nardin Classico Serpent at PMT THE HOUR GLASS, M fl. of Siam Paragon Shopping Center Tel. 02-129-4777 and 1st fl. of Gaysorn Shopping Centre Tel. 02-656-1212.
Distinctive Elegance & Style ck watch, the modern and minimalist timepiece accompaniment to Swiss watch-making creations introduces ‘ck selection’, inspired by timeless elegance. A relaxed yet sophisticated identity makes ck selection the ideal accessory for all circumstances. The case is available in either polished stainless steel, yellow PVD gold or pink gold, and its classic oval shape creates a striking contrast with the slenderness of the wristband. The bracelet features a dainty black or white leather cord strap, of which the two ends are tied in a subtle knot. Adorned with a discrete ‘ck’ icon at 12 o’clock, the dial celebrates purity and is punctuated only by the clear-cut lines of the hour-markers. With its gentle yet distinctive character, ck selection is an accomplished and appealing timepiece.
Take Off
A319 Luxury Private Jet Service Emirates’
Emirates has announced the launch of its luxury private jet service by A319, allowing customers seeking unsurpassed luxury in travel can book a tailor-made experience on Emirates Executive and enjoy new technology and design to meet the most discerning traveler’s requirements. The aircraft offers a new configuration with a high level of comfort and service for up to 19 passengers. The configuration of the A319 Emirates Executive aircraft is based on two main zones. The first area is a wide dining and executive lounge at the front of the aircraft designed to seat up to 12 passengers, combining a work area and a rest zone with two large sofas surrounding four mechanically-activated tables and two 42” HD LCD screens. For Thai passengers who interested in this “Emirates Executive” unsurpassed luxury private jet service that elevates the high standards and quality, Another development, Emirates recently announced its new start using a B777-300ER on it regular Bangkok-Dubai route as well as it daily A380 services. Bangkok will receive a second daily, non-stop Airbus A380 service, starting from 27 October 2013. For more info, visit www.emirates-executive.com or contact the Sales Office 02-664 1045 for further information.
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October 2013
Delta Confirms Order Of
40 Airbus Aircraft Delta Air Lines has placed a firm order with Airbus for 30 A321ceo (current engine option) and 10 A330-300 aircraft. This order marks a strong return to Airbus since Delta’s last order some two decades ago. The airline has selected CFM56-5B engines from CFM International to power its A321s and CF6-80E1 engines from GE Aviation for its new A330s. Deliveries of Delta’s new A330s are slated to begin in 2015, and its first A321 is scheduled for 2016 delivery. “Delta is excited to select Airbus to partner with us as we continue our fleet renewal,” said Ed Bastian, Delta’s President. “These A330 and A321 aircraft offer a combination of economic efficiency and excellent customer satisfaction, which we experience with the 158 Airbus aircraft currently in our fleet.” All of Delta’s A321s will feature Sharklets-lightweight composite wingtip devices that offer up to 4 percent fuel-burn savings, providing the flexibility of either adding 100 nautical miles range or increased payload capability of nearly 1000 pounds (up to 450 kilograms). The A321 is the largest member of the A320 Family-the world’s best-selling and most modern single-aisle aircraft Family.
Qantas Boosts International
Cathay To Launch New York Flights
ANA to Fly Dreamliner to Jakarta
Routes
Qantas has unveiled a series of changes to its international network in Asia, the US and New Zealand. Qantas will add one more weekly Airbus A380 service to the city from 4 November 2013, taking the total number of A380 flights on the Hong Kong-Sydney route to five per week. Following this deployment, on 2 December 2013 Qantas will increase the frequency of its Brisbane-Los Angeles route from six flights per week to daily, using the Boeing 747-400 aircraft made available by the upgrade of the Hong Kong route. And the airline will also boost its trans-Tasman services, following the recent approval of its joint venture with Emirates from authorities in New Zealand. This will include the launch of a brand new route, Perth-Auckland, which will be operated twice a week using an A330 aircraft between 6 December 2013 and 1 February 2014. The existing Sydney-Christchurch service will be re-timed so it connects with more international services from Sydney.
Cathay Pacific Airways will boost its connections to New York next year, with the launch of a new service to Newark Liberty International Airport. Commencing on 1 March 2014, the new service will operate daily using a Boeing 777-300ER with business, premium economy and economy class cabins. Services will depart Hong Kong International Airport every day at 1820, getting into Newark at 2100 the same day. The return flight will leave Liberty airport at 0115, getting back into HKIA at 0600 the following day. The flights will complement Cathay’s existing four daily flights to New York’s JFK airport. Newark will become Cathay’s fifth US destination, following Chicago, Los Angeles, New York and San Francisco.
ANA will deploy its Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft to Jakarta next year. It will replace its existing daily B767-300ER service between Tokyo Narita airport and Jakarta with the larger, more fuel-efficient B787, marking the first time the Dreamliner has operated a scheduled service to the Indonesian capital. The move forms part of a series of Asian route upgrades for ANA. This starts on 1 October 2013, when ANA will deploy the Dreamliner on one of its two daily flights between Narita and Singapore. Then on 27 October, the Dreamliner will also be deployed on ANA’s daily service to Singapore from Tokyo’s Haneda airport. Also from this date, the airline will use its B787 on one of its three daily services between Narita and Shanghai. From February 2014, ANA will remove its Dreamliner from the Narita-Beijing route, replacing the existing daily B787 flight with a B767. The airline will also completely suspend its Nagoya-Shanghai service from 27 October, while cutting its Narita-Chengdu operation from seven to four weekly flights.
October 2013
Magazine
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Society
The New Dimension Of Rose S.T. Dimension Watch Boutique, the authorized retailer of luxury timepieces including Piaget, Breguet, Blancpain, Maitres du Temps, Tiffany & Co., Baume & Mercier, Louis Erard, in conjunction with Piaget watch recently hosted an exclusive afternoon tea for its VIP customers to introduce Piaget Rose at The Oriental Residence Bangkok.
The Wisdom
Exclusive Night
Kasikorn Bank recently held “THE WISDOM Exclusive Night: From Passion to Investment” seminar for KBank’s WISDOM customers, exhibiting some collections of luxurious classic cars, diamonds, and special editions of watches, together with Thailand’s gurus sharing their knowledge of value-added personal collections. The event was held recently at the Bangkok Convention Center, Centara Grand at CentralWorld. Collectibles exhibited at the event included more than 10 classic cars contributed by the Classic Car Association of Thailand (CCAT) and Jesada Technik Museum, special diamond collections from Beauty Gems, and limited editions of watches from a variety of brands imported by Pendulum. Mr. Pakorn Partanapat, Executive Vice President of KASIKORNBANK, also shared his personal watch collection for the exhibition.
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The Exotic & Vibrant India The Embassy of India and Siam Paragon Shopping Center showcased exotic vibrancy of India at “Siam Paragon Incredible India Week” to celebrate the Independence Day of the Republic of India and to mark the long-standing historical and cultural ties between India and Thailand, the Embassy of India and Siam Paragon Shopping Center recently co-hosted “Siam Paragon Incredible India Week” at Siam Paragon Shopping Center. The event featured contemporary fashion by celebrated Indian designers Joy Mitra and Vikram Phadnis and the historical Indian classical dance “Bharatanatyam.”
A Splashing New Experience in Hua Hin Proud Real Estate launched a press conference to announce its exciting destination “Vana Nava Hua Hin Water Jungle to offer a new splashing and colorful experience in Hua Hin as it’s expected to be a hang-out destination for everyone from young kids and their family members to teenagers. The project kicked off through collaboration between Proud Real Estate and 3 leading water jungle designing companies including the world’s number one water park specialist from Canada, WhiteWater West, which has supplied over 5,000 water park projects around the world; a leading resort landscape company from Hawaii, Belt Collins (Thailand), that will create landscape design through natural inspired concept; and Thailand’s leading Architectural and Design Firm, A49 Group.
October 2013
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Special Report
The Cluster Of Pride,
Prestige & Elegance On The Road
The outstanding characteristic of driving is not only about possessing top of the class vehicle, but also involving to having sought-after series capable of driving your exclusivity and the quest for the ultimate high performance on the road with pride and elegance in style. Toyota Camry is amazingly today and tomorrow’s name in automotive industry created to redefine the modern luxury and prestigious driving for all sophisticated customers wishing to drive with pride.
For more info and product details http://www.toyota.co.th/en/product-detail. php?model=camry&opt=grades
T
oyota Camry is sensually built for achieving the true definition of the exclusive driving lifestyle, allowing you drive in style with greater degree of modern luxury and comfort. The specifications and features of both conventional Camry and Hybrid are completely notable and high to guarantee all possible meanings of driving individually, aiming to fulfill premium and pleasant driving satisfaction. Toyota is sticking to its guns with hybrid technology to understate about fuel efficiency. The new hybrid range is now more fuel efficient and faster with new safety and technology features. The interior design and materials are seamlessly above the expectation in finishing. 96
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October 2013
Toyota Camry is comfortable and sure to be an excellent long-distance companion as it has had the reputation for quality, reliability, and efficiency with modern context. The Camry Hybrid interior is more distinctive, admirable outward visibility and well-placed controls. It comes with its own gauge cluster, different plastic trim replacing the wood-alike-patterned standard trim. The interior of the Camry feels roomy and its thin front pillars provide good outward visibility. The spacious rear seat is complemented by a nicely reclined seatback angle, creating the most comfortable backseat in the class.
Asia-Pacific I October 2013
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