45 minute read
Immersed in Nature at Morukuru Beach Lodge
| BY HELÉNE RAMACKERS PHOTOS BY GREG COX
Situated amongst the fragrant fynbos with the Indian Ocean and powdery white sand dunes as vistas, Morukuru Beach Lodge is the ideal place to recharge whilst enjoying what this exemplary 5-star lodge has to offer.
Having stayed at Morukuru Ocean House in 2017 and bearing witness to the start of construction at Morukuru Beach Lodge, our anticipatory excitement was palpable on arrival at Morukuru Beach Lodge. Warmly welcomed by Management team Corné and Kayleigh Lamprecht with butler Blessing presenting us with a tray of hot chocolate, we realize come rain or shine, the weather can do little to detract from the friendly demeanor of the staff at Morukuru Beach Lodge.
Echoing the same principles as Morukuru Ocean House, Morukuru Beach Lodge is completely off the grid, with sustainability, eco design and environmental sensitivity at the core of each Morukuru property. “We believe sustainability means firstly consideration for the natural surroundings,” owners Anka and Ed Zeeman explain. “Using as much regional product in the creation and maintenance of the buildings, and also creating employment opportunities for local residents. We chose to work with local construction companies and sourced stone from the Bredasdorp quarry and railway sleepers from Caledon.”
The decision on who to choose for the design of Morukuru Beach Lodge was uncomplicated – the owners loved the end result at Ocean House and having worked together on this project, they couldn ’t imagine a better duo to approach for Beach Lodge than architect Nick Plewman and interior designer Janine Feikes-Butter.
With a similar concept, design, and footprint to Ocean House, the aim at Beach Lodge was to create a structure that disappears into the surroundings, which has undoubtedly been achieved. The use of organic materials and sandstone makes the house blend in with the granular hues of the sand, while the fynbos on the roof pays homage to the surrounding plant life. The angular and contemporary design of Beach Lodge celebrates the prominence of the location at Koppie Alleen and is strikingly juxtaposed against the changing shapes of the imposing dunes.
We are staying in the incredibly luxurious 970 sq. ft. sea urchin suite, and with floor-to-ceiling windows, unrivaled views of the ocean and sky can be seen from our extra-large King size bed or seating nook by the window. With different interior touches in each of the five suites, ours has turquoise accents and the most
heavenly bathroom, complete with double vanities, a soaking tub, and a soothing rain shower.
Our arrival coincides with lunch and the food is expertly prepared by the chef on duty. For lunch, we enjoy a starter of mushrooms filled with peppers and bacon, swordfish for main course and a delectably fruity dessert. Great care is taken in ensuring guests’ dietary requirements are met, with personalized menus at dinner, sporting anecdotal reminiscings from the daily interactions with Corné and Kayleigh. Dinner is a 5-course enjoyment, starting with amuse-bouche, a starter, palate cleanser, a choice of the main course (including a vegetarian option), dessert, cheese platter, and after-dinner coffee. and one that should be essential is sundowners on the dunes, coupled with the thrills of sandboarding. Taking a tumble when you go from sitting on the board to trying to stand is experienced by our daughter when she lands face first in the sand. On our morning game drive through the De Hoop Reserve, we spot blesbok, ostrich, eland, fiscal flycatcher, helmeted guinea fowl, Hadeda Ibis, Southern boubou, red-wing starling, and Cape Weaver.
A big drawcard is the southern right whales that migrate to these waters annually between July and November to mate and calve. They can be seen from each vantage point at Morukuru Beach Lodge and also viewed from the upstairs lounge area, where they become playful in the early morning or late afternoon and breach or lobtail out of the water.
Our 2-night stay seems to be over in a flash, and we wish we could stay longer to enjoy some more activities on offer, but truth be told, the pinnacle of our stay was definitely the human factor – stories shared and friendships formed go a long way in creating lasting memories.
https://morukuru.com/places/beach-lodge/
*** Views expressed are the authors own - Thank you to the Morukuru Beach Lodge team for making our stay unforgettable and to Anka and Ed for letting us experience another one of your incredible properties.
WHAT’S NEW
“Bringing you the finest places around the world is what we love to do here at Upscale Living magazine. In keeping with this tradition, we are focusing on introducing you to new kids on the block or accommodation establishments with a re-looked lease on life. Grab your travel diary as you want to get to these places as soon as possible!”
| BY HELÉNE RAMACKERS
CONRAD PUNTA DE MITA
RIVIERA NAYARIT, MEXICO
The opening of Conrad Punta de Mita this September celebrates a bright new era in hospitality as Hilton’s first-ever Conrad brand resort in Mexico. Located along the sparkling blue waters of the Pacific on a two-mile long beach, the 324key property embodies contemporary luxury in paradise.
“Opening a hotel is always an exciting undertaking, but introducing an entirely new resort brand to a destination is exhilarating. And not just any brand, but a Conrad,” said Marco Tabet, General Manager. “From thoughtfully designed room product, to unique restaurant concepts driven by age-old recipes, and enriching programming, we are tapping deep into the local heritage of the region to provide an inspired experience driven by exceptional service that meets the demand of today’s discerning traveler.” Conrad Punta de Mita’s extraordinary design serves as a portal into the landscape, history and rich multi-cultural identity of the region. Accentuated by lush tropical vegetation, open corridors and contemporary coastal décor, the resort’s nature-centric aesthetic enhances wellness and reflects a core belief of the Huichol: that transformation and personal development occur through connection to nature.
Guests can enjoy the advantages of a brand-new resort located within the upscale Litibu gated community, where encountering opportunities that meet today’s trends: open, uncrowded spaces and access to nature are endless. Outdoor oases and adventures are abundant including three expansive pools, a long stretch of sandy beach, access to the Litibu Golf Course, outdoor fitness lawn for yoga and stretching and seasonal whale watching excursions. exquisite featuring four restaurant and three bar concepts that pay tribute to age-old techniques and flavors of the local culture, all set in a serene ambience. A traditional ‘Raicilla’ based welcome drink awaits at TUKI, the resort’s lobby bar, while MEZQUITE is the spot to savor dishes that feature charcoal and wood elements all while admiring the gorgeous sunset right by the ocean.
Wellness offerings include The Conrad SPA, an enchanting indoor/outdoor space that will relax and inspire at first sight. Step out to discover a Garden of Eden-like space featuring seven cocoon treatment cabanas nestled among the vegetation and connected by an inspiring tunnel of plants and flowers, as well as the first-ever traditional Temazcal in a Hilton property.
https://www.conradpuntademita.com/
DUPONT CIRCLE
WASHINGTON DC
Following a largescale renovation, the luxury Dupont Circle hotel is delighted to announce it opened its doors to guests on October 16th, 2020. This transforming refurbishment includes a cutting edge bar and restaurant designed by internationally regarded Martin Brudnizki, alongside a new lobby and penthouse suite realized by trailblazing Irish designer Clodagh – known for her trademark ‘life-enhancing minimalism’.
As part of The Doyle Collection, a family-owned Irish luxury hotel group with a 60-year heritage, the Dupont Circle exudes a unique warmth and pervasive atmosphere of Irish hospitality -imbuing the space with the familiarity of a members’ club and the intimacy of a private home.
The complete refurbishment exudes an urbane and European sensibility while remaining decidedly part of its vibrant and bustling neighborhood. The new design concept has been the vision of Bernie Gallagher, Chairman of The Doyle Collection and daughter of PV Doyle, founder of the eponymous hotel group. Mrs. Gallagher is personally invested in the design of each property - suffusing them with a unique sense of style and place in their local community.
For The Dupont Circle, Mrs. Gallagher worked with Clodagh and Martin Brudnizki to create a glamourous hub in the world’s most powerful city – seamlessly weaving contemporary comfort and style with a 1950s aesthetic that pays homage to the building’s mid-century beginnings.
Brudnizki focused on bold colors and varying textures in the bar and restaurant, while New York based Clodagh incorporated holistic touches like live-edge wood and handwoven rugs in the penthouse suite and reimagined lobby. Irish designer Clodagh poured her Irish sensibilities, and a touch of nostalgia into the design of the new Penthouse Suite and the hotel’s lobby - reflecting low key, relaxed luxury that was inspired by her childhood in the West of Ireland.
A sanctuary on the ninth floor, The Penthouse Suite is available in two configurations, with one or two bedrooms. When expanded into two bedrooms, and incorporating the heated outdoor terrace which overlooks Dupont Circle and has views of the Washington Monument, the suite is one of the largest in the city – almost 3000 square feet.
All accommodations on the Penthouse level are suites, many with large heated terraces overlooking the historic surrounding area. Guests can also book the entire floor to include The Penthouse Suite and terraces, alongside 12 additional suites with private access.
https://www.doylecollection. com/hotels/the-dupont-circle-hotel
OKU KOS KOS, GREECE
An intimate village-style beach hideaway, OKU Kos is an adults-only hotel inspired by nature and Greek way of life. Located on the shores of the Aegean with a secluded private beach, OKU Kos invites you to feel the gentle island breeze as you paddle the ocean waves on the hotel’s SUPs, take in the DJ beats at the beach club, or revitalize your body with a treatment at the OKU spa.
The cubic buildings are contemporary and understated, derived from centuries-old Greek architectural style. Large terraces extend into private outdoor space. Indoor and outdoor restaurants, open kitchens, a centered bar, with terraces on the poolside or overlooking the beach and sunset all make OKU Kos as magical as its setting. The OKU Spa is a sanctuary to soothe your mind and body. Amenities at the tranquil spa include a heated indoor swimming pool, relaxation area and a hamman for unique rejuvenation rituals. Designed to restore and revive, the treatment menu blends traditional and modern techniques, as well as ancient Greek practices. All-natural products are used, including aromatherapy oils and plant hydrosols.
The hotel offers a selection of rooms and villas in the form of private sanctuaries, generously spread across the verdant grounds and each reflecting OKU’s thoughtful bohemian design ethos. Offering daily yoga classes of differing practices on one of two yoga spaces, the fitness studio and yoga pavilions, guests can hear the soft lapping of the waves while finding inner peace through breath and movement at the beachside yoga pavilion or the open-air terrace in the wellness area. Private yoga or meditation sessions can be arranged through the spa. The fitness studio is open to all hotel guests and equipped with state-of-the-art equipment, ensuring stylish and exhilarating workouts.
OKU Kos has a private white sand beach lined with comfortable sunbeds, parasols and shady cabanas dotted about for long relaxing afternoons. The area is known for its gentle yearround breeze which makes the temperature enjoyable throughout warm Greek summers. The beach overlooks the beautiful waters of the Aegean onto the mountainous terrain of the island. Guests can make use of the watersports equipment to paddle to nearby waves.
Locally inspired experiences include and exclusive DJ program, a yoga and meditation program and regular beach clean-ups to support local environmental initiatives while exploring island wonders and culture with wellbeing and enrichment in mind.
https://www.okuhotels.com/ oku-kos/
THE TOWNHOUSE AT THE GAINSBOROUGH BATH SPA
BATH, ENGLAND
YTL Hotels’ The Gainsborough Bath Spa recently launched The Townhouse, an elegant Georgian property that combines the space of a private home with the luxury services of the five-star hotel. Adjacent to The Gainsborough Bath Spa, the three-bedroom townhouse offers peaceful and private accommodations over four floors.
Complete with a kitchen, dining area, lounge, and outdoor patio offering plenty of space, guests of The Townhouse can also take advantage of all facilities at The Gainsborough Bath Spa, including valet parking and private access to the historic Cross Bath where guests can enjoy natural thermal waters cascading from the spring and specially commissioned poolside fountain in complete privacy. Combining classic interiors with modern luxury, The Townhouse is a treasure trove of authentic Georgian antiques and unique furnishings, all locally upholstered and restored. Highlights include the beautiful silk curtains and copper bathtub in the master suite, with a kitchen, dining area, lounge and outdoor patio offering plenty of space. The third level Master Suite features the striking and unforgettable master bedroom with its imposing, canopied, king-size bed, draped in the finest silk linens, matched with the stunningly dressed Georgina windows.
The charming Queen Bedroom is decorated in a welcoming mix of pinks, lilacs and creams. The open-plan room features an original fireplace, with the modern aspects of a shower and vanity unit. Guests of The Townhouse can also take advantage of all facilities at The Gainsborough Bath Spa, including valet parking, restaurants, The Gainsborough Bar, and private access to the historic Cross Bath. Standing separately to the Gainsborough Bath Spa’s Spa Village, The Cross Bath is an official sacred site where Celts once revered their Goddess Sulis in whose honor the Romans named the spa town, Aquae Sulis. Today, it’s known as a private oasis where guests can enjoy the natural thermal waters cascading from the spring.
The Townhouse is located in the center of Bath, the perfect spot for visitors to explore the city with ease. Much of Bath is within walking distance, including the Roman Baths and Bath Abbey. Travelers can also hire bikes to explore the nearby countryside, see the area by boat or even take to the skies with a hot air balloon experience.
Additional amenities include champagne upon arrival, daily turndown service, teatime and treats, fresh fruit and flowers, and more.
https://www.thegainsboroughbathspa.co.uk/pages/the-townhouse.html
KEFALONIA & HER NORTHERN COVES
| BY ADAM JACOT DE BOINOD
At the time of writing for those coming from England Kefalonia’s one of the few free from Covid quarantine restrictions and still eligible for the ‘travel corridor’.
The island will be familiar to some for the wonderful novel ‘Captain Corelli’s Mandolin’ by Louis de Bernières. It tells of a young Italian officer as part of the occupying forces. He wants a peaceful war and suffers initially from being ostracized by the locals before entering into a fragile romance with a local Greek girl. It ‘s both tragic and light and became a magnificent film starring Nicholas Cage and Penelope Cruz. I reached my destination, a northern fishing village called Fiscardo (for a complete guide go to www. fiscardo.com).
It faces Ithaca, the home of Odysseus, and is a yachties’s paradise. There are no nightclubs here. It’s a place for relaxation and repose.
This delightful harbor is the only village on the island not damaged by the catastrophic earthquake of 1953. Bougainvillea adorns the evident and satisfying Venetian colors and architecture. Though there are less than fifty residents off-season it’s a working village with locals busying themselves sweeping up from and hosing down the pavements. The locals are warm and engaging allowing tourists to come to their shops and restaurants of their own accord without any hassle or enticement.
To dispel any thoughts of mosquitos I always recommend the natural Canelle Spray (www.cinnamonhill.com) that is very effective and has a cinnamon aroma far preferable to that of the citronella variety.
That night in Fiscardo I ate out at Panormos, a terraced restaurant with a hip, cool vibe. The menu is trendy and modern with ‘supergreen’ dishes chosen for the palette of healthy-minded types. I chose the delicious and very generously portioned ‘Super Food Salad’ comprising of crispy lettuce, pomegranate pearls, pine nut, white and red quinoa, wild rice, grilled goats cheese and lemon vinaigrette. As another l starter I had spicy shrimps, chilly oil, vongole shellfish and feta cheese. Then came the seabass fillet with lemon and thyme sauce followed by the ‘Magic Muffin’ an orange chocolate soufflé with bitter chocolate ice cream.
I stayed at the Almyra Hotel (www.almyrafiskardo.gr). Almyra means ‘the sensation of the salt water of the sea’ and opened in 2002 as a family concern. The furnishing in the spacious sitting room is modern and chic. There’s a healthy range of coffee table books on Greece, the Ionian Sea, Kefalonia and photographs of Fiscardo’s fishermen. Thankfully at Almyra they are spared the usual gaudy paintings. After all the view says it all: overlooking its swimming pool, the sea beyond and Ithaca further into the distance, not to mention the magnificent dawn, sunset and starlit nights.
It’s a perfect boutique size: intimate, well-designed and ideal for its staple clientele of couples though typically they bring their children in August. 80% of the guests who return regularly are British so it’s no surprise that the three flags beside the driveway promote not just Greece and the European Union but the Union Jack. There’s a minibus shuttle to deliver and collect from the harbor the guests who are equally keen to have come from other routes down different beaches and coves and share their adventurous discoveries with each other.
The menu in the restaurant, with its modest number of tables inside and out, is a combination of British and Greek tastes. I had, as a starter, roast potatoes with garlic, oregano, mustard and lemon followed by octopus cooked in red wine and sun-dried tomatoes served with chickpeas.
As Emblisi only has a canteen I walked back up (a healthy, but not too hardy task) to reach Mirella’s, a roadside restaurant. With authentic white wooden tables bedecked with potted plants it boasts a truly picturesque view of the sea beyond. Here I chose a Caesar salad, as well as feta with honey and filo pastry, followed by a chicken fillet à la crème with mushrooms and peppers. It’s very reasonably priced and authentic.
Another night I had supper at one of the waterfront restaurants called Roulas. It has its distinctive floral motive with calming white neutral colors as a backdrop. The lovely elephant breath, warm mid-grey exterior is extremely elegant as are the white chairs, tables, shutters and windows with their delicate Greek lacework. There was even a small shop to lure me inside beside the kitchen where the magic happens.
Next door, and for another night’s feasting, I went to the restaurant Tassia (www.tassia. gr). It’s linked to the Almyra hotel and the wonderful menu offers a huge variety of meat and seafood. I chose Tassia’s delicious taramasalata, a ‘Meloza Salad’ with lettuce, rocket, cherry tomatoes, almonds and sauce with honey, olive oil and balsamic vinegar. My grilled fresh tuna fillet which was fabulously succulent was followed by Tassia’s desert with yogurt pineapple jelly, stewed pineapple and fresh cream.
All within easy reach of Fiscardo are the coves of Dafnoudis and Kimilia. But my favorite was Alaties. I recommend going early to reserve your space. It’s a hidden jewel set in turquoise water, down past the lovely church in Antipata Erisou and then a couple of hamlets, through Magganos with its delightful eaterie called Picnic, to this small divine cove with the bluest of water and whitest of rocky outcrops.
For a wonderful full day’s excursion I strongly recommend a boat trip with Ionian Discoveries (www.ioniandiscoveries.com). The owner Fabio takes people snorkeling and one spot is the Boieru cave at Foki Bay (meaning bay of seals). It’s within the glorious setting of calm, teal water and above a small, deep, dark evergreen forest. Very reminiscent of Scandinavia and Canada. Across the day he had pointed out to me grey and white herons, a school of baby grey mullet, turtles, cormorants, octopus and starfish. He and Vassilis love sharing their knowledge as they explained to me all about the octopus and its undoubted though underappreciated intelligence and memory.
Like all the other Brits I must go back. Whenever but soon!
FACTBOX
Adam had support from Heathrow Express (www. heathrowexpress.com) and reached Gatwick Airport via Southern Railway (www.southernrailway.com) as well as from Holiday Extras, the market leader in UK airport parking, hotels, lounges and transfers, and Holiday Extras aim to find you a hotel and parking package that’s cheaper than the cheapest airport parking on its own (on two week breaks). To book the Hilton at London Gatwick Airport, visit HolidayExtras.com or call 0800 316 5678.
PHOTO BY EMMA BALL
A Modern Perspective on Southern Hospitality at Emeline Hotel
| BY GWEN PRATESI PHOTOS BY LINDSEY SHORTER & EMELINE
Southern cities are known for their gracious hospitality, and Charleston would arguably top the list as the most amiable. At Emeline, the city’s newest hotel, discerning travelers will experience the consummate Southern host at this imaginatively designed retreat in the heart of the Holy City’s historic district.
The 212 all king-room boutique property is a collaboration between Rockbridge, a private investment firm, with RBHD as the developer and Makeready as the brand creator. Rockbridge also partnered with Swoon, The Studio to design and re-imagine the historic 1852 landmark building that had its early beginnings as a wholesale grocery market. This same creative team collaborated on another luxury property, The Adolphus, in Dallas, Texas.
The natural landscape, flora, fauna of coastal South Carolina, and Charleston’s port city roots were the inspiration for its interior design. This eclectic combination of textures, colors, patterns, furnishings, and found objects create a warm and inviting environment in the guest rooms and public gathering spaces. “In designing Emeline, we were inspired by the rich culture of Charleston,” says Samantha Sano, Swoon, The Studio co-founder. She adds, “Our goal was to create a space with a sense of warmth and soulfulness that evokes the modern South. We were also led by the spirit of our “muse” Emeline, who we see as a portrait of true southern hospitality. Full of grace, grit, and determination, every design touch-point was considered through her viewpoint.”
Emeline’s presence is felt the minute you arrive at the hotel. The residential-like exterior maintains its original Greek Revival wooden door to the building and is fringed by Corinthian-style columns. Once inside the lobby, you’re drawn to The Living Room on the right with its plush furnishings in warm palettes of blues and greens, highlighted by pops of yellows. On the left, Clerks Coffee Company is a welcoming gathering spot for hotel guests and locals for a graband-go coffee, casual lunch, or afternoon Cappuccino. At the top of the grand staircase, the Keep Shop, Makeready’s signature retail experience, houses a thoughtfully curated selection of gifts, artwork, and accessories designed and produced by more than 40 local artisans. These exclusive items include Emeline’s exclusively scented room mist and candles.
Emeline’s accommodations offer Premier king-bedrooms, 128 luxury suites, and 16 double bed king rooms that provide a comforting respite after long days wandering the colorful cobblestone streets of this captivating city. Like the rest of the hotel, the rooms have a contemporary design, yet invoke a sense of nostalgia. Featured amenities are bespoke embroidered linens and 100% cotton towels from Matouk, plush spa robes, Signature Emeline Amber Wood Red Flower bath amenities, vanity accessories created by a local Charleston artist, and Custom Wild Sam Field Guides to Charleston. The suites offer another playful touch with a Crosley turntable and custom Emeline vinyl in the living room.
All guests have access to complimentary sparkling, chilled, and ambient water from a Vivreau water dis-penser at The Nooks, located on each floor. The fitness center offers exercise options with nautilus equipment, free weights, a Peloton bike, and Fitness on Demand classes. There is also complimentary WiFi, valet service, and custom Emeline house bikes to explore downtown. The hotel’s Mini Coopers are at guests’ disposal and can be reserved to tour the city’s parameters or head to the beach. The hotel is petfriendly, so furry pals can also experience Emeline’s hospitality with unique amenities upon arrival.
Frannie and The Fox, their chic Italian-inspired wood-fired eatery highlights ingredients sourced from regional purveyors. The engaging bar and spacious lounge area next to the lobby beckon guests to come and stay awhile with green cushioned banquettes, comfy chairs, tufted leather seats, and tables for friends to gather over craft cocktails.
One of the most intriguing features of this space is the wallpapered hallway behind the bar, the Foxhole Galley, where guests can grab one of four stools, ring a bell to order a drink, and have it served through a sliding wooden panel door. While sipping on a Negroni or house specialty made with Appleton rum, the Top Sail, patrons are able to watch chefs prepare fresh pizza dough and house-made mozzarella in the kitchen. The restaurant’s shareable dishes can be enjoyed indoors or alfresco in the beautiful garden-like courtyard surround-ed by jasmine vines and twinkling nights. The large brick fireplace also offers casual seating to gather around on chilly evenings.
Emeline’s warmth, personality, and timeless and effort-less service are a welcome addition to the historic center of the city. After a few days, you will leave feeling as though you’ve experienced gracious hospitality, not in a hotel, but in someone’s home in the charming Southern city of Charleston.
WHAT‘S HOT
| BY HELÉNE RAMACKERS
Each month, the team at Upscale Living magazine will bring you the latest in What’s Hot! – from the newest trends in watches, to shiny new jewelry, magnificent make-up, tantalizing toys for young and old, or the most extraordinary books you have to add to your collection.
FINDING FREEDOM Harry and Meghan and the making of a Modern Royal Family
One of the most anticipated books of 2020, Finding Freedom takes a closer look at why Harry and Megan sought a life away from the prying eyes of the paparazzi and public scrutiny. Written by Omid Scobie and Carolyn Durand, these two top royal reporters met Meghan Markle even before Harry did.
“Back in 2015, I chatted with her for the first time at a Fashion Week event held in Toronto after she did press interviews on the carpet. No one was more amazed than me when just a year later, Meg (as her close friends and now husband call her) captured the heart of the most eligible bachelor this side of the pond,” Omid recalls. “Even in the early days of their relationship, it was clear that Harry had found a woman who awakened his sense of purpose with humanitarian passions that mirrored his own drive to support those on the margins of society. The world watched in amazement as the couple’s relationship rapidly developed. And Carolyn and I watched, too, as a number of tabloids went on to accuse Meghan of being a demanding and difficult social climber.”
The overall message that is taken away from Finding Freedom is that this wonderfully loving, independent couple are striving to be just that – carving out their own path in life without prejudice and their most important role – as parents to their son Archie and wanting to protect him as much as they possibly can, affording him and themselves a life or normalcy where they can do what they both love, giving back to the many organizations they support. Love them or loathe them, Finding Freedom is a must-read.
https://www.amazon.com/Finding-Freedom-Meghan-Making-Modern/ dp/0063046105
ANATOMY OF MINIMUM John Pawson
Depicting the defining elements of his architecture, John Pawson’s latest book, Anatomy of Minimum focuses on the identification and characterization of themes such as proportion, light and attenuation to the language of windows, doors, floors and walls, explored across a range of diverse private and public projects.
Different categories showcase The critic is the Client, Anatomizing Minimum, Study Houses, Architectural Dialogues and a variety of architectural drawings makes Anatomy of Minimum a fascinating book, published by Phaidon and authored by Alison Morris. Grouping a selection of Pawson’s recent works into domestic projects, private houses, including his own house in rural England, a Benedictine archabbey in Hungary, a historic Tel Aviv convent and hospital transformed into the Jaffa Hotel, a gallery in a former World War II telecommunications bunker, designs for homeware, a ballet production, extended sacred spaces as well as repurposed structures such as London’s Design Museum.
Pawson has always been clear in his assertion that he sees no categories in his work. As he puts it ‘it’s all architecture’. This is highly indicative of his way of thinking and designing. At the same time, the differences between designing a spoon and making a house are profound. An object tends only to have to do one thing or at least only a limited number of things, whereas architecture is almost inevitably programmatically complex. In Anatomy of Minimum, ten of Pawson’s most recent architectural commissions, together with a series of design projects are ‘anatomized’ to discover the essential elements that make his work so special.
https://www.amazon.com/John-Pawson-Anatomy-Alison-Morris/dp/0714874841
An absolute delight to add to your bookshelf if you’re a novice or old hand at baking. Beautiful photography of mouthwatering bakes, cakes and cookies fill the pages of Now For Something Sweet by Monday Morning Cooking Club.
When four Australian ladies made it their mission – a quest, a non-stop search – to persistently test and tweak, and to preserve the many sweet recipes entrusted to them over their years of collecting. Now For Something Sweet is a conscientiously curated selection of sweet recipes they love the most, from Jewish homes across Australia and around the world. ers, Lisa Goldberg, Natanya Eskin and Jacqui Israel. Since 2006 and four books later, Now For Something Sweet has seen the ladies cook, laugh and cry together with great results – books compiled with wisdom and passion. The other books in the series are The Food, The Stories and The Sisterhood (2011), The Feast Goes On (2014) and It’s always about the food (2017).
Each chapter has its own ‘how to’ guide, perfect for developing a recipe hands-on, clarifying the specific techniques. It also comes with a ‘people and stories’ page, delving into how the specific bake came to be whilst sharing heartwarming tales of family, friendship, community and survival. “With this book, we continue to wave the tapestry of a culturally diverse, uniquely food-obsessed community that loves to cook, and, most importantly, to nurture those we love through food,” says Merelyn, Lisa, Natanya and Jacqui. “We give you, with our collective heart and soul, recipes to pass on to the next generation, and stories to tell as we slice just one more piece of cake. And all with much love and deliciousness, from our kitchen to yours."
https://www.amazon.com/MONDAY-MORNING-COOKING-CLUB-UNTITLED/dp/1460751671
SASOL BIRDS The Largest Illustrated Guide to Birds of Southern Africa
The newest edition of Sasol Birds of Southern Africa has been comprehensively revised by its expert panel of authors, with additional insight from two new specialist authors. Updated with the latest species records, it documents all the bird species that have been sighted in South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Lesotho and Eswatini to date. This guide is a great addition to your birding arsenal.
This greatly enhanced fifth edition boasts over 800 new illustrations (including all-new raptor and seabird plates) and an exciting new bird-call feature. Simply download a free mobile app, scan barcodes that are below each species’ distribution map and listen to the call! The guide contains an informative introduction, which includes a useful illustrated glossary showing various parts of a bird’s body –such as head and bill features, body features, underparts and upperparts – beautifully drawn and carefully labelled. It also contains a list of endemic birds of the region, and gives a variety of resources if you want to read further. Quick references at the front and back of the book will help you navigate to bird groups with ease.
The species descriptions detail the habits, breeding, behavior, call and appearance of the birds, comparing them with similar species that could cause confusion. Calendar bars show the months during which the species are present and when they breed in the region, and distribution maps show where they occur. The distribution maps have been color-coded, to distinguish resident birds from winter and summer visitors.
Each species is beautifully illustrated, with labels pinpointing features that will help you differentiate similar species from one another. Variations of each bird are shown as well, so you can identify it even if it is a different race, form or plumage.
https://www.penguinrandomhouse.co.za/ book/sasol-birds-southern-africa-5th-edition/9781775846680
Who better to guide us than those in the know as to where the most stylish hotels are than architects? For the first time, more than 250 of the world’s leading architects share insider tips on where to stay in this jam-packed 528-page guide, Where Architects Sleep – The Most Stylish Hotels In The World. Whether you are planning a business trip or a vacation, a city break, beach sojourn or an escape to a little-known gem, you will undoubtedly find something suitable amongst these properties.
Published by Phaidon and compiled by Sarah Miller, this guide depicts all-time favorites, beach, best-kept secrets, budget (friendly on the wallet but not scrimping on quality), countryside, desert, eco-conscious, luxury, mountains, spa, urban, where I live, wish I’d designed and worth the travel.
“Where Architects Sleep is a further amalgamation of all the things I love,” says Sarah. “It is an insider’s guide to the best places to stay in the world – the result of having spoken to some 270 architects around the world, who have provided us with more than 1,200 recommendations of the best places to stay, in more than 100 countries, across eight regions.”
“We were overwhelmed by the number of excellent responses we received; there were so many that we were unable to include all of them in the following pages,” Sarah continues. “But, with this demonstrates is that no-one appreciates a building quite like an architect. None of the star grading systems beloved by the hospitality industry apply here. The result is an eclectic travel companion – whether you are looking for a ger in Mongolia or a palapa in Mexico. It is an essential tool for anyone who loves to discover the world’s treat – a great home away from home.”
https://www.amazon.com/Where-Architects-Sleep-Stylish-Hotels/dp/0714879266
A Family City Break in Brighton A Resort on the English Coast
| BY REBECCA UNDERWOOD PHOTO CREDIT: ADAM BRONKHORST + VISIT BRIGHTON
For families considering a city break escape, Brighton, located on the East Sussex coast, offers a wide range of attractions to keep grown-ups and little ones entertained. This resort became very popular due to the patronage of George, the Prince of Wales, who became Prince Regent in 1811, ascended the throne in 1820, and was duly crowned King George IV.
During the 1780s, George, Prince of Wales, suffered from gout and he was advised by his physicians to visit Brighton in order to take advantage of the resort’s climate and to take regular ‘dips’ in the briny. He promptly rented a small property and discovered, to his delight, that he could avoid the intrusive Royal court and indulge in his favorite pastimes of consuming alcohol, fraternizing with women, and gambling, with abandon, although debts were mounting. In 1787 the House of Commons cleared his debts and his income was increased. He hired the renowned architect Henry Holland and instructed him to transform his Brighton property into a villa, which became known as the Marine Pavilion, frequented by the highest echelons of society.
John Nash, Architect to the Prince Regent, was responsible for the design of Marble Arch and works on many other prominent London landmarks including Buckingham Palace, Regent Street and Piccadilly Circus, and in 1815 he was instructed to redesign and extend the property. The magnificent minarets, domes and pinnacles on the exterior of the building reflect the opulence of the interior rooms, galleries and corridors, which feature exquisite and intricate decoration, lavish furnishings and glittering treasures.
Although George IV’s descendants William IV and Queen Victoria frequented the Royal Pavilion, the Queen remarked that it was ‘a strange, odd, Chinese place’; she found the property too small for her growing family and purchased Osborne House on the Isle of Wight. In 1850 the Royal Pavilion was sold to the city of Brighton for approximately £50,000 and Queen Victoria requested that the building was to be stripped of all items, which were then transported to either Buckingham Palace or Windsor Castle. A large number of these items have been returned, on loan, by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, and many of them have not been seen by the public.
I was keen to explore the site and hopped on a local bus bound for the Royal Pavilion. The interior of the exotic property reflects a fusion of Regency splendor Indian and Chinese styles, and a kaleidoscope of vibrant colors. I was particularly impressed with the banqueting room, which is adorned with enormous sparkling chandeliers, art works and golden dragons galore. I was reliably informed that the prince did not sit at the end of the very long dining table but in the very center so that he would be privy to several conversations. After dining on an extravagant menu of 32 dishes, which would last for up to six hours, guests would then head to the sumptuous lounge to relax or perhaps succumb to forty winks and then gather in the music room beneath the gilded domed ceiling festooned with hundreds of plaster cockleshells and where in 1823, Rossini performed.
After exploring the enormous kitchen and the king’s bedroom I made my way to the Royal Pavilion garden’s, which have been fully restored following John Nash’s 1820’s plans. The colorful collection of plants and flowers includes fifteen varieties of rose, rosemary, sweet Williams, lavender, blue larkspurs, peonies, hollyhocks and foxgloves.
With the fragrant scents of blooms in my nostrils I headed for the promenade beside the sea and as I sauntered along at a leisurely pace passing Brighton Pier, and with my ice cream cornet melting in my hand, I looked up at a flock of sea gulls squawking overhead and spotted another popular attraction. The British Airways i360 observation tower soars 162 meters into the blue sky and it’s a delightful experience. This ‘vertical pier’ features a fully enclosed glass viewing pod, which is very spacious, and as it gently glides up and down passengers are afforded spectacular panoramic views across Brighton, the South Downs and the glorious English Channel.
Back on terra firma I noticed the Regency Restaurant, a thriving family business, founded in 1963, which is located on the Kings Road overlooking the elegant Regency Square and opposite the i360. I selected an outside table, and whilst bathed in the warmth of the sunlight I devoured the juicy Mediterranean platter, which includes the fish of the day, mussels, clams, scallops and king prawns and accompanied by the dry and elegant Chablis 2018, it was sublime.
As my first day of explorations came to an end I checked into the Legacy, a modern, low-level apartment block located on Denmark Villas, a stone’s throw from Hove railway station and ideal for families. My two-bedroom - two-bathroom apartment was spacious, airy and bright with contemporary furnishings and I immediately kicked off my shoes and made myself at home. The lounge features a work station, a dining area, two comfortable sofas and a large television with Netflix. The kitchen offers every appliance including a dishwasher, hob, oven, microwave, fridge/freezer and every utensil needed to whip up a tasty snack and with a small supermarket a few steps away I was fully stocked.
A washer/dryer is provided and amenities include unlimited WiFi, weekly housekeeping and car parking (subject to availability and a fee). The master bedroom, which features ample storage and a large comfortable bed swathed in crisp, white linens, resulted in a deep a restful slumber and I was delighted to discover a generous supply of Gilchrist and Soames toiletries in the en suite bathroom. After indulging in a homemade breakfast I made my way to the Brighton Lanes, a collection of meandering narrow alleyways crammed with charming and quirky antique and jewelery shops and I browsed for hours on end. My quest to find that illusive bargain was interrupted when I came upon English’s, the oldest restaurant in Brighton, dating back to 1945. I decided to dine al fresco and ordered the succulent rock oysters followed by the whole Dover sole, à la meunière with tartare sauce. I splashed out on the Dom Pérignon 2008, which was served with aplomb, and the dining experience was simply first class. Venturing off again, I headed for the nearby North Laine and discovered a vibrant area brimming with a bohemian and eclectic mix of independent shops, cafès, juice bars, pubs and restaurants and it’s the ideal spot for ardent bargain hunters. The wide choice of locally made jewelery clothing, accessories and trinkets ensured that my budget was blown!
Laden with shopping bags, I noticed that it was getting rather late and it was time to find a spot for dinner. Bill’s, located on North Road, was just the ticket. This spacious, rustic-style restaurant, on the site of an old bus depot, offers excellent service, an open kitchen and an enticing menu. I ordered the delicious pan fried sea bass with avocado, cherry tomato, caper salsa and herb rösti, and the Gavi Voltolino 2018 was the perfect accompaniment. Striking up a conversation with a small group of fellow diners I remarked that it was my last night in Brighton and I proposed a toast; ‘To George IV, who died in 1830 at the age of only 68, and although his political opponents considered the Royal Pavilion a waste of public his creativity and his love of Brighton’.
funds, it remains a popular attraction and a testament to
‘Top tip’ Accommodation
For more information on the featured property and more visit roomspace.com
‘Top tip’ Travel. Avoid the parking problems in Brighton and travel direct from London Victoria to Brighton and/or Hove. For more information visit ticket. southernrailway.com
‘Top tip’ local transport. Get around Brighton and Hove with a multi-trip ticket valid for 10, 20 or 30 journeys within the boundaries of Shoreham, Patcham, Falmer and Saltdean. For more information visit smartbuses. co.uk/smart-card.
Hop on Volk’s electric railway, which runs from Brighton Aquarium to the Marina and back. For more info visit volksrailway.org.uk
Get to know the Luxurious
D‘USSÉ COGNAC BRAND
| BY FELICITY CARTER
Established in 2012, D’USSÉ is the oh-so-chic and luxurious French spirit to know, and more importantly, to taste. Cognac dates back to the 1600s, but this label set out to shake up the specific industry, and it sure has worked as their sales have rocketed. The cognac resurgence is here, thanks to the rich, deep tasting notes everyone wants in. With all this in mind, we talk to the D’USSÉ Global Brand Ambassador, Sullivan Doh, on the history of Cognac, their brand offering, and he also shares his favorite cocktail for us to try at home.
Tell us about the history of D’USSÉ cognac?
D’USSÉ Cognac has an interesting history compared to some other Cognacs that have been around for centuries. D’USSÉ is a relatively new brand that launched in June of 2012, yet it encases a liquid that is curated at a 200-year old venue called the Château de Cognac - one of the oldest Cognac houses in France. D’USSÉ Cognac was conceived by the senior-most cellar master working today, Michel Casavecchia, who I’m honored to closely work with regularly.
Michel’s vision behind the creation of D’USSÉ was to reinvigorate the category and create a Cognac that stands for boldness, integrity, freedom, authenticity, and modernity, with a goal of bringing freshness to the Cognac category while still honoring the steep history of the spirit.
After launching D’USSÉ V.S.O.P. in June of 2012, D’USSÉ also launched a high-end X.O. Blend in the spring of 2014, rounding out the D’USSE portfolio with a premium offering and an ultra-premium offering.
How did you get into the drinks industry and join D’USSÉ?
I’m a French native through and through, and my spirit’s journey started in 2009 when I joined the Parisian bar experience as a bartender, after giving engineering and catering school a go. I hustled my way up to a head bartender position by 2012. During my experience at the bar scene, I recognized an opportunity to shed more light on French spirits within my nation. I didn’t want the richness my country has to offer to be ignored.
In 2014, I ventured on my own and led the charge in bringing recognition to French spirits by co-founding Le Syndicat Paris – the first cocktail bar in Paris to use only French alcohol. To give some perspective, 97% of the Cognac produced in Cognac, France, is deported, and I wanted to do something about that.
In 2016, I started managing my second bar in France called La Commune, which has a focus on punches and communal drinks, all made with French spirits, of course. Both bars have earned recognition amongst lists of worldwide best cocktail bars, which lead me to be recognized by D’USSÉ. The brand’s vision to reinvigorate the French spirits category resonated with me, so it was a natural and authentic partnership when I was appointed as D’USSÉ Cognac’s Global Brand Ambassador in 2019.
What is the product offering, and the advantages of them?
D’USSÉ currently has two signature offerings - V.S.O.P. and X.O. V.S.O.P. (S.R.P. $50) is the perfectly balanced blend of selected Cognacs aged at least 4 ½ years in French oak barrels in the prestigious Château de Cognac’s unique dry and humid cellars, containing a 40% A.B.V. These natural aging environments are a key factor in delivering a V.S.O.P. blend with a powerful, complex taste and a pleasantly smooth finish.
X.O. (S.R.P. $230) is an exquisite, ultra-premium blend championing the category? The hand-selected Eaux-de-vie used in D’USSÉ XO is aged a minimum of 10 years in French oak casks, and the result is an uncompromising Cognac that delivers complex flavor and culminates in an exceptionally balanced finish. D’USSÉ XO starts with a fruity
bouquet on the nose, bringing notes of hazelnuts, nutmeg, apricot, orange, wood, and subtle warm spice on the palate – a festive flavor combination perfect for the holidays. A statement wherever it rests, the exceptional bottle design – inspired by the liquid it contains – is both class and modern bearing the Cross of Lorraine: a symbol of honor, courage, and perseverance.
What’s your go-to D’USSÉ cognac cocktail, and why?
My go-to D’USSÉ cocktail has to be the Splendid Sidecar. The inspiration behind this cocktail was to create a modern twist on the classic Sidecar, just how D’USSÉ has put a modern twist on the Cognac category. The proportions are rebalanced for today’s palate, and the addition of orange blossom water enhances the citrus profile of the cocktail, playing around with the orange notes of D’USSÉ.
D’USSÉ Splendid Sidecar
-1.5 parts D’USSÉ VSOP -1 part Triple Sec / Orange Liqueur -3/4 part Fresh Lemon Juice -1/3 part Orange Blossom Water -1 tsp. Simple Syrup
See more on www.dusse.com.
FOR : A D V E R T I S I N G O P P O R T U N I T I E S
BLUE SPOT WHISKEY LAUNCH
It’s the fruit of a reunion after fifty-six years. Irish Distillers, maker of some of the world’s most enjoyed whiskeys, joined forces again with Dublin’s seventh generation Mitchell family to unveil its “re-imagined “ Blue Spot Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey.
The Spot Irish whiskey range began in the early 1900s when celebrated wine and spirits merchants, Mitchell & Son, began maturing whiskey from the local Jameson Distillery in Bow Street in their underground cellars in Dublin City Center. Blue Spot gets its name from the blue daubs or ‘spots’ of paint used to ear mark the barrels containing whiskey to be matured for a minimum of seven years. Green spot ( revived in 2017) is aged for ten years and yellow (revived in 2012) for twelve. Triple-distilled Red Spot whiskey , last made in the mid 1960s, was re-launched in 2018 , using Sicilian Marsala and Bourbon casks.
The new Blue Spot is aged in Madeira casks in homage to the traditional style going back to the 1930s. The Irish Distillers’ Midleton Distillery has been sourcing Madeira wine seasoned made in north Portugal casks for 20 years. Once seasoned in Madeira , the casks are shipped back to Midleton and filled with pot still distillate and left to mature and be distinctly flavored with stewed apples, hazelnuts and sweet spices. These Madeira casks, along with ex-Bourbon and ex-sherry casks are then hand-selected and married together to achieve the perfect flavor balance.
Says Kevin O’Gorman, Master Distiller at Irish Distillers ; “ It brings a piece of Dublin’s rich whiskey history back to life.. I am incredibly proud to celebrate with Jonathan and Robert Mitchell on this historic day as Blue Spot takes its place alongside Green, Yellow and Red Spot, reuniting the whole family once again.”
“A former confectioner to Her Majesty”-turned-whiskey bonders” the Mitchell family has produced an international rugby referee ( Bobbie ) and Noel Mitchell who in the early 1900s went to the US to try out as an American football player. Jonathan Mitchell, Managing Director at Mitchell & Son, adds: “It’s been a privilege to shed light on the history of whiskey bonding in Ireland and the role our family had to play in it as we relaunch Blue Spot.”
A non-chill filtered, cask strength release that will see ABV varying annually, Blue Spot will be available in the US from February 2021.
ARCHITECTURAL PLANNING J. Armando Leyva 253.653.6815
