L I F E .
E X T R A O R D I N A R Y
August 2015
the DeSIGN ISSue royal pineda & budji layug
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the best designs of 2015; rem koolhaas & prada; ronald ventura; bottega veneta & more
around asia Thailand Tatler
Ladies First To celebrate Mother’s Day and Queen Sirikit’s birthday, which both fall this month, Thailand Tatler profiles Piyavara Teekara Natenoi, who is the head of the Queen Sirikit Museum of Textiles. Also featured this issue are five leading society ladies who tell of their experiences becoming mothers later than most—in their forties.
National Anthem Our regional editions pay homage to famous local figures and examine the important issue of environmental protection Indonesia Tatler
Flying the Flag Shangliu Tatler
Mother Earth
Singapore Tatler
or this month’s Green Life issue, former competitive swimmer Zhuang Yong, founder of media planning and procurement company Tulip Media, is the cover star and discusses the importance of environmental protection. Leading figures from various industries also speak on the issue, and retired Japanese football player Hidetoshi Nakata tells of his collaboration with Italian jewellery brand Damiani, which will help fund the earthquake disaster relief project Home.
To mark the country’s 50th birthday, Singapore Tatler profiles some of its most important local visual and performing artists. Veteran actor Lim Kay Tong talks about the role of a lifetime, playing the late statesman Lee Kuan Yew in the film 1965, and the defining moments of his own career.
All About Art
Malaysia Tatler
Fast Friends
Taiwan Tatler
global, Local Inspired by his European travels, Lafon Trading CEO Roger Su (above) tells of elements of the continent’s lifestyle he plans to bring to Taiwan. The issue also takes a sneak peek at newly opened Hotel Royal Beitou, with a focus on its restaurant, Pure Cuisine, which uses locally sourced ingredients.
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Tunku Myra Madihah is a royal from the state of Negeri Sembilan and the only daughter of social stalwarts Tunku Mudzaffar and Tunku Dara Naquiah; her best friend, Ruthlene Abu Sahid, is the daughter of self-made tycoon Abu Sahid Mohamed. While Madihah and Sahid have been interviewed individually in the past, these two highprofile socialites have not been interviewed together. In this issue, they speak candidly about their solid, no-holds-barred friendship of 15 years. Also featured is Madihah’s uncle Tunku Naquiyuddin, who talks about his passion for motor sport and his involvement in this month’s Kuala Lumpur City Grand Prix, the capital’s first.
hong kong tatler
steps to success Cover star Diego Della Valle, Tod’s president and CEO, tells how he built the luxury leather goods company into one of Italy’s most respected brands, transformed the lives of the residents of his hometown, and fought to preserve his country’s most important monuments. Also featured in this issue is the Hong Kong Ballet Ball committee (pictured), whose members are dedicated to introducing classical dance to a new audience.
philippine tatler . august 2015
photography: haiyan lee (zhuang yong); clivelan lu (roger su); lionel lai/acepix (lim kay tong); ricky lo (Hong Kong Ballet Ball committee)
To mark Independence Day, this month’s cover story focuses on Indonesian armed forces chief General Moeldoko, who speaks about the importance of patriotism and various ways to help the country’s economy develop. This edition also features profiles on Rusdi Kirana, founder of Lion Air, and Rosa Patti Djalal, who is active in politics, education and various women’s rights projects.
FLĂ‚NEUR FOREVER
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Rising high SEE who’s taking it a notch higher in the design world homes
living by design On the rise at the heart of the country’s cosmopolitan jungle is Century Properties’ fifth Acqua tower, Iguazu, which boasts rainforest-inspired architecture and impeccable interiors, crafted by leading design company Yoo Inspired by Starck.
motoring
HOT WHEELS Top global auctioneer Bonhams has the Maserati Boomerang on their lot for the Bonhams Chantilly Sale on September, which is estimated to go for £2.9 Million. First unveiled in the 1971 Turin Motor Show as a concept model, the Boomerang was designed by renowned automotive designer, Giorgetto Giugaro.
As we celebrate the science and art of design, we take a look at the lives of fashion mavens Amina AranazAlunan and Loralee BaronSoong, who established the School of Fashion and the Arts in 2007
PROPERTY
stay a while From the exclusive resort overlooking Bali’s unspoilt beachfront to the hotel palace in Australia that hails Renaissance artistry and design—we take you to the most elegant designer hotels in the world built by luxury brands Armani, Bulgari, and Versace, to name a few.
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TRAVEL: enjoy marital bliss in these exotic honeymoon destinations dining: discover the city’s HOTTEST ramen spots sOCIETY: find out who of manila’s elite are braving the design scene
philippine tatler . august 2015
THERE ARE EXCEPTIONS TO EVERY RULE.
WOMEN’S MILLENARY
SPACE 1-069 GREENBELT 5 AYALA CENTER TEL: (632)501 3079
IN PINK GOLD.
AUDEMARSPIGUET.COM
august L I F E . E X T R A O R D I N A R Y
FEATURES 154 Best of the Best
172
From gadgets to athletic wear, jewellery, and furniture, Philippine Tatler showcases some of this year’s most stellar achievements in design
172 It Takes Two
Budji Layug and Royal Pineda, the most sought-after design duo in the country, tell us how they are transforming NAIA
180 The Art Provocateur
The lauded Ronald Ventura tells the story of his journey as an artist and shares his insights on the future of the local art scene
188 Base Camp Prada
There’s no fashion at the Rem Koolhaasdesigned Fondazione Prada but a sprawling tribute to art, architecture, cinema, and philosophy
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154 18
philippine tatler . august 2015 . vol 14 . no 16 8
contents
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46
50
Concierge 36 Inbox
Restaurateur Margarita Forés and her worthwhile wait; Betina Ocampo as one of Elle’s most stylish
38 Small Talk
CITEM’s Rosvi C Gaeton’s thoughts on the current design scene
40 Social Network
Design experts share their favourite decorative pieces
42 Velvet Rope
Imbibe the night life spirits of Vegas and Ibiza at the Palace Pool Club
44 Art Agenda
Enjoy the finest the European art world has to offer
46 Hot Ticket
Singin’ in the Rain sets out to make a splash; Imagine Dragons and Ariana Grande take their tours to Manila
47 What’s On
Concerts, festivals, theatre productions, and other exciting events
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faces 50 Soiree
Philippine Tatler Traveller launch; Dom Perignon event; Nigel Barker’s book launch
60 Close-Up
Bestselling author Kevin Kwan goes into detail on Asian culture and his second book, China Rich Girlfriend
64 Leading Ladies
Go all out with bold prints or rein it in with classic hemlines
68 Onlooker
The trendiest and most exclusive social gatherings in the country
76 It Girl
The always impeccable Linda Ley is a true head turner philippine tatler . august 2015
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GOING WILD
STYLE 88 Style Profile
216
Fashion designer Charina Sarte shares details of her personal style and favourite design pieces
90 Top 10 Picks
This season, go bold and brassy with these stylish picks
92 Fashion
Desert-friendly outfits, business chic, and whimsical looks
132 Beauty
Ladies can now use the same palette with the magic of wet and dry make-up
WATCHES AND JEWELLERY 144 Watches
Luxury watchmaker Breguet’s latest collection is a nod to innovation
148 Jewellery
Multi-coloured stones make a comeback this season, and the blue sapphire takes its place in the spotlight
philippine tatler . august 2015
Let the animal in you come out and get wild with Givenchy’s animal print Antigona Shopping tote
LIFE 196 Wine
Château Giscours, post-calamity Burgundy wine selections, and more
206 Homes
Kim and Felicia Atienza creates a home in Old Manila
222 Design
Ethan Allen’s Bridal Registry; Kaldewei’s collaboration with Arik Levy; Le Corbusier; B&B Italia’s Giorgio Busnelli
DEPARTMENTS Around Asia 14 To Our Readers 26 Behind the Scenes 28 Contributors 30 The Great Debate 32 The Last Word 236
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L ife . E x traordi n ar y
Managing Director Irene Martel Francisco Advertising
Director of Sales / GM Lynne M Palma Circulation
Circulation Director / Office Manager Maricel B Beech Finance
Chief Accountant Nancy Grace T Bariring Production and Traffic
Production Manager Lennie Ondra Production Assistant Camille Gamara
Edipresse Media Asia hq@edipressemedia.com
Executive Chairman CEO-Hong Kong, Macau & SE Asia CFO, Asia Chief Creative Officer
Publisher-Custom Media Director Of Events Regional Managing Director–Digital Managing Director–Edipresse Media Hong Kong Managing Director–Edipresse Media Malaysia Managing Director–Edipresse Media Singapore Managing Director–Edipresse Media China General Manager-Edipresse Media Taiwan
Michel Lamunièr e Zita Ong Ida Cheung Sean Fitzpatrick Petula Kincaid Wenhui Ng Olga Sych Greg Crandall Florence Fang Gilbert Cheah April Hsu Ashley Liang
Regional Financial Controller Vincent Lam Regional Corporate Planning Manager Sandy Tang Regional IT Manager Philip Wong International Sales intlad@edipressemedia.com
International Sales Director Edmond Cheuk Australia: John Byrne
john@hoganmedia.com.au
France: Marie Armande de Sparre madesparre@masmediaf.com
Germany: Christian Nemer christian.nemer@publicitas.com
India: R achna Gulati
Japan: Noriko Takigawa
rachna.gulati@publicitas.com
noriko.takigawa@publicitas.com
Indonesia: Millie Stephanie
Korea: Joane Lee
Italy: Giorgia Guardincerri
Middle East: Salma Eddinari
milliestephanie@mobiliarigroup.com giorgia.guardincerri@kmedianet.com
dbi@doobee.com
salma@iasmedia.com
Spain: Maria Navarro
maria.navarro@publicitas.com
UK: Emille Errante
emille.errante@publicitas.com
Thailand: Nartnittha Jirarayapong US&Canada: Conover Brown noo@njintermedia.com
conoverbrown@worldmediaonlinecom
Turkey: R eha Bilge rbilge@medialtd.co.tr
Edipresse Group
Chairman
Pier r e Lamunièr e
cfo & coo
Michel Preiswerk
Vice President
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Sebastien Lam unièr e
philippine tatler . august 2015
L ife . E x traordi n ar y
Editor-in-Chief Anton San Diego Editorial
Managing Editor Lifestyle and Social Editor Editor at Large Features Editor Senior Features Writer Features Writer Editorial Assistant Contributors
Chit Lijauco Maurice Arcache Mia Borromeo Cristina Morales Astra C Alegre Mitch dela Paz March Ortuoste Tory Burch, Samantha Leese, Helen Molesworth, James Suckling, Kate Weaver- Gibbs
Managing Editor (Regional Content) Managing Editor Hong Kong Tatler Bureau Chief Indonesia Tatler Managing Editor Macau Tatler Managing Editor Malaysia Tatler Editorial Director Shangliu Tatler Editor-in-Chief Singapore Tatler Senior Managing Editor Taiwan Tatler Editor-in-Chief Thailand Tatler
Stephen Short Jakki Phillips Maria Lukito Steven Crane Elizabeth Soong Joseph Chow Jane Ngiam Cathy Chiang Naphalai Areesorn
Art and Photography
Art Director Marienne Hilahan Graphic Designers Fretzie Loberiano, Michael Ponce Photographers Dave Anderson, Melson Bolongaita, Amar Daved, David Fisher, Dindo Gutierrez, Jason Lloyd -Evans, Onin Lorente, Shaira Luna, Kenji Onglao, Willy Saw, Mj Suayan, Wig Tysmans, Alex Van Hagen, Arthur Woodcroft Digital
Online Editor, PhilippineTatler.com
Regional Product Manager
Aussy Aportadera Wing Leung
Lifestyle Media Company Ltd, Publisher: 6/F Guardian House, 32 Oi Kwan Road, Wanchai, Hong Kong Style Media, Inc, Consultant: Unit 11-A, 11th Floor VGP Center, 6772 Ayala Avenue, Makati City, Philippines tel: +632 814 0771 fax: +632 812 07090 e-mail: cmail@philtatler.com Copyright Š2015 by Lifestyle Media Company Ltd. All rights reserved. Philippine Tatler is a registered trademark of Edipresse Media Asia Ltd. and is used by Lifestyle Media Company Ltd. under licence from the trademark owner. All materials published remain the property of Lifestyle Media Company Ltd. Materials submitted for publication are sent at the owner’s own risk and, while every care is taken, neither Philippine Tatler nor its agents accept any liability for loss or damage.
Subscriptions Subscribe to Philippine Tatler for just US$282 (12 issues). Call +632 814 0771 local 111, or subscribe online at subscribe@philtatler.com. Remittance to be sent to Style Media, Inc. Unit 11-A, 11 Floor VGP Center, 6772 Ayala Avenue, Makati City, Philippines
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philippine tatler . august 2015
LETTER FROM THE EDITOR
TIME OUT
Wouldn’t this Tudor Heritage Black Bay look good on my (or any man’s) wrist? It’s classic, bold and true to its vintage spirit. The watch is inspired by a diving model that first appeared in 1954 yet still retains its modern and contemporary look.
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WILD THING Natural Highness (2015), graphite and oil on canvas, by celebrated international artist Ronald Ventura
For this month, we are excited to present our “Best of the Best” (page 154) series, this time involving design and incorporating not only local but international talents as well. We also have an interview with Ronald Ventura, one of the most sought-after Filipino artists. My good friend Tyler Rollins, who owns Tyler Rollins Fine Art in New York, says of the celebrated artist: “He is without doubt one of the most highly acclaimed Filipino artists of his generation, with an incredibly dynamic range of work that has resonated not only throughout Asia but really across the world. Since 2009, he has presented three solo exhibitions with me here in New York, which is probably the most demanding art centre in the world. Each show has been a conceptually strong, thematically coherent body of artworks that, while often grounded in particular aspects of Filipino culture, have a universal relevance and appeal. His incredible talent and seemingly boundless creativity have attracted a global collector base, something that’s not easy to achieve.” Ventura is truly a legend in the making. We also have an amazing feature written by Stephen Short on the collaboration between Rem Koolhaas and Prada to create the Fondazione Prada, an institution (or a mini-city) in Milan dedicated to art and culture. Although the Fondazione was founded in 1995, the new event space designed by Koolhaas unveiled its new permanent venue in May of this year. Another worthy read by Short is the ur first-ever design issue piece on the new Bottega Veneta home furnishing starts off with two gentlemen showroom in Milan. whose talent and creativity know In Fashion we have photo shoots that take us no bounds. It was 13 years ago to Dubai, London, and back to Manila. We also when interior designer Budji have an interview with celebrated author Kevin Layug and architect Royal Pineda partnered Kwan, who is coming to Manila this month to to form their own firm, BUDJI+ROYAL launch his second book. If you are a fan of his Architecture+Design. In “It Takes Two” (page first book, Crazy Rich Asians, which we hear 172), our Features Editor Cristina Morales might be made into a Hollywood movie soon, interviews the dynamic and creative tandem you are sure to love China Rich Girlfriend. whose contributions to Filipino design and On a last note, it’s our anniversary next month architecture have been so significant that they and we are turning 14. What we have in store for were approached by the government to lend their you will surely be as loud as a lion’s roar! talents to the country. Together with industrial designer Kenneth Cobonpue, Layug and Pineda have drawn up plans to transform the Ninoy Aquino International Airport into a better reflection of our society—something very modern, but still very Filipino. With them at the —Anton San Diego helm, our tagline of having one of the world’s Editor-in-Chief worst airports should be a thing of the past.
Roar!
philippine tatler . august 2015
BEHIND THE SCENES
Taking Flight See how we pulled off our cover shoot with Budji Layug and Royal Pineda at NAIA Terminal 1 t was nearing our call time of 10 am and the Philippine Tatler team was already assembled in NAIA Terminal 1. Our cover personalities, designer Budji Layug and architect Royal Pineda, as well as our photographer, Shaira Luna, were on their way to the airport when we were notified by the Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) that it would be better to shoot later that afternoon, after the morning rush. And so we frantically called everyone to reroute to the Budji+Royal office in Bonifacio Global City, where, once we were all complete, we immediately started shooting. “I don’t usually feel at ease getting my photo taken, but this feels comfortable,” Layug remarked as he was getting his portrait taken by Luna, whose calm demeanour definitely helped. In the middle of our shoot, Pineda’s 6-year-old-son—a spitting image of his father—came running into the office, charming everyone with his good looks. Luna couldn’t resist snapping a portrait of the father and son, both naturals in front of the camera. Once the clock struck noon, we all had a quick bite to eat before rushing over to the airport, raring to hit the ground running. Our momentum was broken for a spell when we had to wait for our passes, but after we secured them, we were all set. Even though she was wearing high heels, Luna would clamber on top of conveyor belts and sprawl on the floor of the arrival lobby just to get the perfect shot. Layug and Pineda followed suit, gamely climbing onto beams and gates. Luna is known in the industry for working quickly, and so before we knew it, we were done. This shoot could not have been possible without the cooperation of the MIAA and the assistance of BUDJI+ROYAL Architecture+Design— thank you for your help! For the complete story and photos, turn to page 172.
SHOT EXCLUSIVELY FOR PHILIPPINE TATLER PHOTOGRAPHY Shaira Luna STYLING Samantha Tidalgo GROOMING Myrene Santos of MAC Cosmetics LOCATION Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 1 and the BUDJI+ROYAL Architecture+Design office
“I don’t usually feel at ease getting my photo taken, but this feels comfortable”—Budji Layug 28
BY THE WAY
If only we could have a Segway at all our photo shoots! Not only will it carry individuals and equipment, it’s also a great ice-breaker for shy subjects
philippine tatler . august 2015
CONTRIBUTORS
FULL FRAME London-based fashion photographer Onin Lorente took a huge leap of faith when he decided to leave his day job as a programmer a couple of years ago to pursue his love: fashion. He later turned his passion into a real profession as he made a name for himself in fashion photography. Lorente has travelled the world, shooting fashion editorals and covering fashion week events. His works have graced international publications like Elle, Citizen K, Schon!, Monocle, as well as local magazines. He has also worked on advertising campaigns for fashion brands like Uniqlo and Bench. In this issue, Lorente showcases his fashion photography expertise in our whimsical fashion editorial “On to Dreamland” (p. 110).
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RAW BEAUTY
STREET SMART His works are distinct; all carry an edge that identifies them as his. Though primarily self-taught, MJ Suayan honed his skills under the mentorship of some of the country’s renowned photographers. Starting out in street photography, he has transitioned to other genres and now does fashion. His photographs have landed spots in different foreign and local magazines and websites. This issue’s fashion editorial titled “Business as Usual” (p. 100) features photographs that reflect Suayan’s unique style.
BRIGHT LIGHTS Photographer Kenji Onglao earned his bachelor’s degree in Communications from Vesalius College in Brussels. He eventually went on to pursue his passion and started developing his talent in photography. His works caught the attention of magazine publications in Belgium and Barcelona, who began commissioning him to shoot for fashion editorials. This month he captures the beauty and style of designer Charina Sarte in “Design Diva” (p. 88).
A self-taught photographer, Shaira Luna remembers reading the user’s manual of the very first DSLR camera that she owned. As a beginner, she started shooting bands playing on stage at concerts and gigs, something she always enjoyed as it allowed her to immerse herself in two things she’s always been passionate about: music and photography. Now a seasoned pro, Luna shoots for different publications and also does commercial photography. This month, she photographs architecture and design duo Budji Layug and Royal Pineda for our cover story “It Takes Two” (p. 172).
philippine tatler . august 2015
PRECIOUS GEM
DESERT DELIGHTS Amar Daved is a London-based photographer who has been in the industry for 10 years. He started as a model at the age of 18 before deciding he preferred being behind the lens. Daved’s clients include Elle, I-D, Hunger, Esquire, Paper and Essential Homme. Outside of work, he’s a DJ and a film buff. In fact, films are where he gets most of his inspiration. This month, Daved shoots the best in summer wear among the dunes in Dubai in “Into Oasis” (p. 92).
philippine tatler . august 2015
With an extensive background in gemmology and art history, Helen Molesworth began her career in the jewellery industry after graduating from Oxford University. She was selected by Sotheby’s in 2000 to work on the company’s Magnificent Jewellery auctions in Geneva. Her career as a jewellery specialist in international auctions flourished, as she worked at Sotheby’s and then Christie’s for more than 10 years. In 2011, Molesworth left Christie’s to set up her own jewellery advisory business, sourcing for clients and researching private collections. She is currently the managing director of the Gübelin Academy in Hong Kong. This month, Molesworth explains sapphires in “True Blue” (p. 150).
FASHION FORWARD Arthur Woodcroft discovered a love for visual arts and sculpture in his early teens before studying photography. After moving to London in 2002, he assisted some of the industry’s biggest fashion and advertising photographers. Arthur went on to win several accolades for his own photography at the 2008 AOP Assistants Awards. He now shoots for editorial and advertising clients such as Vogue, Vanity Fair, Gucci and Hugo Boss. This month, he gets behind the lens for our stunning accessories shoot (p. 120).
SUMMER BEAUTY Travel, fashion, and a quest for the perfect margarita have led Kate Weaver-Gibbs to spots all over the world, from Wales to Aspen, and to South Africa. She has curated fashion events stateside and has worked with Armani in the UK. As a beauty and travel writer, her work is featured in British and US lifestyle publications. In this issue, Weaver-Gibbs interviews model David Gandy in “La Dolce Vita” (p. 128) and explains the appeal of dual-use wet and dry make-up in “Water Baby” (p. 132).
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The Great Debate
Is it tacky to photograph food in a fine-dining restaurant? yes
no
chito antonio
margie moran-floirendo
It is not just tacky, but also childish to
It is not tacky to photograph food in a fine-
Chito Antonio, architect, is Rustan’s creative director for the Home department. He is known for his spectacular table settings, for which, he says, he never compromises on fresh flowers, with liliums (“Because they last long”) being his favourite.
Margie Moran-Floirendo, former Miss Universe, is the active and effective president of Ballet Philippines, a champion of Muslim Mindanao culture, and a student of Rural Development from SOAS, London University—the epitome of the ideal Filipina.
take photographs of one’s food in a finedining restaurant. I used to have a very good friend who once started taking photos of a hamburger with foie gras that we were having in a just-opened restaurant of a Michelinstarred French chef at Marina Bay Sands in Singapore. I was so embarrassed, particularly when I noticed the waiting looking at him. So I asked him to stop. “We’re not children anymore. And why are you going to announce on social media where we are and what we are doing?” I said. That was the end of a beautiful friendship. Maybe this opinion is part of my personal aversion to anything tourist-y. I find the whole package in bad taste: taking a photo of a landmark, like the Eiffel Tower, as just the background; asking waiters or strangers to take your photo; and posting everything on social media. I do not make a fuss and I do not believe in announcing to the whole world every little thing that I am doing. So for me, taking photographs of food in a fine dining restaurant, or in any type of restaurant for that matter, is tacky.
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dining restaurant, but it would be prudent as well as courteous to first ask the permission of the chef or the owner. You can do this discreetly. One way is to course your request through your wait staff. If the chef is not around and nobody could give an explicit permission, you can go ahead and photograph, without being too obvious, using your phone camera. Be considerate of the other diners around you, however, and make sure that you do not use the flash. Now, what would be tacky is to use a large camera especially with a tripod, or standing up to take a shot. Taking food photographs is becoming a common practice because social media has given the opportunity to share special moments with friends. I think they will enjoy getting a glimpse of the restaurant you are in (especially if it is a Michelin-starred one), or the celebrity chef who hosted your dinner, or the beautiful presentations of the dishes. I take photographs as quickly as I can so as not to delay my companions’ urge to devour their food. Foodies, like my daughters and I, like to keep these experiences in photo albums, especially when taken during a trip.
philippine tatler . august 2015
knock out The boxing and mixed martial arts zone at Edsa Shangri-La hotel’s new fitness centre, which boasts the most modern and innovative equipment in the country
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hong kong tatler . month year
CONCIERGE This month’s must-do list
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Plaudits pour on top restaurateur Margarita Forés and young designer Betina Ocampo
Rosvi Gaetos reveals the exciting path for Philippine design, with a little help from CITEM
inbox
small talk
hong kong tatler . month year
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We ask the country’s designers about their favourite pieces
This month’s biggest shows: Singin’ in the Rain, Ariana Grande, Imagine Dragons
Take a look at what August has to offer— concerts, marathons, festivals, and more
social network
hot ticket
what’s on
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CONCIERGE | INBOX in the diary
PASSION: A VIOLIN RECITAL On 12 September, young virtuoso Joaquin “Chino” Gutierrez will be taking a break from his studies at the Hochschule für Musik und Theater München to perform at the Francisco Santiago Hall in BDO South Tower, Makati. DANCE SPRING (PAGSIBOL) Ballet Philippines celebrates its 46th anniversary season under the direction of Paul Alexander Morales. Witness the rise of a new generation of Philippine dance in its season opener this September at the Cultural Centre of the Philippines.
Margarita Forés, advocate of Italian cuisine
Worth the Wait
It took two years before Margarita Forés was able to hold her precious Marietta Ad Honorem Award and bring it home he marietta ad Honorem Award is an honour the Italian government bestows to acknowledge a person’s passion for and contribution to the promotion of Italian cooking. In 2013 the award found someone to honour from the Philippines, the restaurateur Margarita Forés who has been promoting the old recipes of Pellegrino Artusi, the father of Italian cuisine. In fact, it was after his devoted assistant, Marietta Sabbatini, that the award was named.
It would have been a joyous occasion indeed, way back in 2013, if Forés was not suffering from a health setback which prevented her from going to the city of Forlimpopoli to receive the award, a golden bust of Artusi. But it waited for her, in a glass case at the Casa Artusi library. The wait finally ended last 21 June when Forés accepted the award in person from Casa Artusi President Giordano Conti during an event held at the beautiful and historic Chiesa dei Servi church. Forés is the first non-Italian to receive this award.
MAROON 5 The American pop rock band comes back to Manila for the fourth time, bringing with them special guest Dirty Loops for their brand new tour, “V-Tour.” Catch them on 17 September at the Mall of Asia Arena.
On the Elle-List Young designer Betina Ocampo is one of the most stylish ladies in New York, says Elle online It was no surprise that Elle online chose the New York-based designer Betina Ocampo as one of the city’s most stylish women. Betina was born into fashion and grew up steeped in style, being the daughter of fashion retail czar Ricco Ocampo and former fashion
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model-turned-bag designer Tina Maristela-Ocampo. Betina gives Elle a candid interview, sharing some of her fashion faux pas and wardrobe secrets. She believes in “suffering for fashion,” referring to her penchant for high heels. The designer has been making a name
in New York since 2012 with her eponymous label of luxury t-shirts, expanding to include skirts and pants for fall/winter 2015. She is launching her shoe line soon, which is a collaboration with her sisters Selena and Juliana—something to definitely watch out for!
philippine tatler . august 2015
CONCIERGE | small talk
What are some of the successes of Design Philippines? We did not expect some degree of success in the market before three years of operation. So it was quite a surprise that at this early stage, the brand has gained traction and recognition both here and especially abroad. DP has become synonymous with a collective of Manila FAME exporters led by Kenneth Cobonpue whose company brands signify design and innovation. Buyers in Milan, Paris, and New York have started to expect and look for the DP Pavilion in the trade shows they attend, proof that the brand is now recognised to speak for Philippine design. Are there new programmes that CITEM has launched recently or will be launching soon? We launched last year the “Design for Exports for Food” or “DEFood” to create a stronger and more focused image for our Philippine food export products. The Red Box Talents nationwide competition was launched last year to search for the next generation of designers for home and fashion. In September this year, we are doing a special event for the APEC Women in the Economy Forum. We created a new brand, “Luxe Philippines,” a concept store of bespoke products for retail, and will include a DP special setting. It will become a CITEM concept that can be set up and carried for special occasions and events that merit it. design path As head of CITEM, Rosvi Gaetos promotes the development of local design via interesting programmes
Pushing the Envelope The executive director of CITEM, Rosvi C Gaetos, sits down with the Philippine Tatler to present the exciting movements in Philippine design, foremost of which is the initiative called Design Phlippines What is Design Philippines? Design Philippines [DP] is a branding initiative launched by CITEM (Centre for International Trade Expositions & Missions) in 2013 that positions the Philippines as a sourcing destination for finely crafted products. It puts a face to exceptional manufacturing companies in the home sector who embrace design and artisanship. It is CITEM’s answer to the need to create more “Kenneth Cobonpues.” CITEM launched DP in the global market through highly curated Philippine pavilions in selected trade events in key markets: Euroluce/Saloni Internationale del Mobile in Milan, Maison&Objet in Paris, and the International Contemporary Furniture Fair in New York.
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This October, Manila FAME will be launching new features to the show that will again wow both buyers and visitors. How has CITEM pushed the development of our local designers, in whatever design field? Manila FAME continues to serve as a platform for our local designers [young and old, new or established] to promote themselves and their designs to both local and foreign audiences. The more exciting and meaningful CITEM programme for local designers is The Red Box Young Designers Development Programme which allows our new and aspiring local designers the enviable opportunity to work with Manila FAME manufacturers to give life to their designs that may just find their way into the global market. The nationwide talent competition launched last year will bring the winning young designers to study abroad and visit design shows in key overseas markets as part of their training. Does CITEM have a wish list to enable it to achieve its goals faster? I have three: 1) More Kenneth Cobonpues! 2) A more enlightened industry who can understand and commit to the value of up-marketing and branding, so we can have more advocates of Design Philippines and make it really fly. 3) A country approach to branding—it is not just about tourism or trade but a wider appreciation of branding as a tool to push the country as a purveyor of design, quality, and fun.
philippine tatler . august 2015
CONCIERGE | social network
My Favourite Things
instagram firsttimers
We ask five design and architecture experts what their favourite home decor items are, and what makes them so special
Isabel Preysler
“My favourite home accessory or furniture piece is an antique Indian round accent table in black ebony wood which my wife received as a gift from her grand aunt Jane.”
Like
Comment
#Mycream #foreveryoung
Manny Miñana
Conrad Onglao “I’m actually torn between the importance of lighting fixtures [table lamps, floor lamps, uplighting, etc] and decorative rugs. While the former provides the necessary ambience and drama, the latter provides the cache and the definition of a given space.”
Isabel Preysler
Launching my beauty line, “My Cream.” IG: @isabelpreysler
Anna Maria Sy
Korina Sanchez-Roxas
“I love, love, love the Womb Chair by Eero Saarinen, designed in the 1940s. It’s both quirky and sexy and makes a statement without overwhelming a space.” Like
Comment
#flowerpower #happiness
“I always add a thick solid wood, stone, or metal shelf to a wall just left empty to serve as a minimal sculpture or as a showcase for objects that I want to highlight.”
Anton Mendoza “My favourite home decor piece is my carroza because of its dual purpose. It is used as the vessel of saints during processions and serves as a cocktail table at home. It was purchased from Ronnie Laing’s Antiques and Flower Shop, which stood along Pasay Road in the ’70s.”
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Ed Calma
Korina Sanchez-Roxas
Happy Wednesday everyone! Received these flowers from a good friend. I have enough for three vases! IG: @thisiskorinasanchezroxas
philippine tatler . august 2015
CONCIERGE | velvet rope
who’s been seen
wet n’ wild The Palace is changing the party scene with the Pool Club
Like the Cool Kids The first day-to-night pool lounge is making waves in Manila’s club scene new dress code has taken over the hottest parties in Manila with the opening of The Palace Pool Club. With two pools, multiple bars, a satellite DJ booth, and main stage, the Pool Club is the coolest venue to be fashionably seen in sheer kaftans, crop tops, and unbuttoned button-downs. Local acts like Up Dharma Down often start the party on a calmer tone. Electric performances from international DJs like the Australian duo Nervo, Porter Robinson, and Eva Shaw change the tempo when the sun goes down. Coming from the success of Valkyrie, the Pool Club is the second of five concepts to open at the Palace. The Pool Club opens its bar and kitchen at 11 am daily.
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Trey Burke
Tracy Sedino
Kiana Valenciano
WHO TO KNOW
Anton Del Rosario
The multi-hyphenated Raymond Gutierrez has grown into a fine young man with entrepreneurial prowess. A keen sense of worldclass nightlife, Gutierrez co-owns hotspots The Palace and 71 Gramercy alongside Tim Yap, JM Rodriguez, and Fabio Ide.
philippine tatler . august 2015
CONCIERGE | art agenda
continental curios Jet off to Europe for some top arts action this month dutch delights amsterdam international art fair 28–29 August
This inaugral art fair boasts a line-up of more than 40 galleries from the Netherlands and beyond. Split into two programmes dedicated to established and emerging galleries, the fair showcases contemporary and modern art as well as urban art and graffiti. amsterdamartfair.com
new beginnings
social commentary
sotheby’s hong kong through 8 august
innovative aims art-o-rama, Marseille 28–30 august
Uniqueness and originality are at the forefront of this international contemporary art fair, which is now in its eighth year and takes place in the south of France. Galleries are selected based on specific projects, which gallery owners conceive with the artists. art-o-rama.fr
edgar payne The Purple Vale goes on the block at Bonhams Los Angeles on 4 August
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A South Carolina family purchases Packing from Payne Lake for US$350
• 1940s
phillips london through 31 august
The career of Portuguese artist Joana Vasconcelos was cemented when she participated in the 2005 Venice Biennale with A Noiva, a six-metre-high chandelier made of more than 14,000 tampons. At her exhibition Material World, Vasconcelos will be showcasing sculptures made with more traditional materials, but with no less aplomb. The exhibition coincides with the publication of a monograph dedicated to the artist, who is well known for her sculptures and installations that explore social and cultural issues. phillips.com Christie’s Los Angeles puts Brittany Boats under the hammer for US$90,000
• 2005
Auction house Charlton Hall sells Packing from Payne Lake for US$97,750
• 2008
Riders on Horseback sells for US$553,000 at Christie’s Los Angeles
• 2008
philippine tatler . august 2015
image: sotheby’s hong kong (wei dong); bonhams (edgar payne)
Crossroads: Wei Dong is a selling exhibition showcasing ink landscape scrolls the Chinese artist has created over the last two decades, including groundbreaking new works where he departs from his signature style. sothebys.com
CONCIERGE | hot ticket
Make a Splash The stage adaptation of the iconic movie Singin’ in the Rain comes storming into Manila oming directly from London’s West End and its UK Ireland Tour, Singin’ in the Rain opens on the 20th at The Theatre at Solaire. Based on the iconic 1952 film, the stage adaptation of the musical comedy will feature performances from Grant Almirall (Jersey Boys) as silent film leading man Don Lockwood and Bethany Dickson (The Sound of Music, Grease) as aspiring actress Kathy Selden. Singin’ in the Rain, which made its Broadway debut in 1985, earned two Tony Award nominations, and has garnered rave reviews from all over the world. The show’s musical numbers, created by composer Nacio Herb Brown and lyricist Arthur Freed, include “Singin’ in the Rain,” “Make ‘Em Laugh,” and “Good Mornin’.” One of the show’s highlights is a big tap dance number across a rain-soaked stage. With 12,000 litres of water pouring down on stage, it’s likely that the first three rows of the audience will get wet, which is why they will be provided with plastic rain coats. Perfect for the entire family, Singin’ in the Rain is suitable for children from the age of five, and runs for two hours and 50 minutes. For more details, visit ticketworld.com.ph
For more information, visit
philtatler.com/aug15
what a glorious feelin’ Grant Almirall takes on Gene Kelly’s iconic role
HONEYMOON AVENUE Ariana Grande has been busy the past couple of years. Though the pint-sized pop star initially made a name for herself as a television actress, it wasn’t until she released her 2013 debut studio album Yours Truly that she was catapulted into fame. Her second album My Everything further cemented her status as a household name, with hits like “Problem,” “Break Free,” and “Love Me Harder.” She brings her Honeymoon Tour to the Mall of Asia Arena on the 23rd. For ticket information, contact smtickets.com.
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Welcome to the New Age Since the release of their debut album Night Visions in 2013, Imagine Dragons has been hailed as one of the biggest breakout bands of their time by Billboard, Rolling Stone, and MTV. Their second single “Radioactive” smashed records by spending 87 weeks on the Billboard Hot 100 and topping the Hot Rock Songs chart for 23 weeks. Their current tour promoting their second album Smoke + Mirrors brings them to the Mall of Asia Arena on the 27th. For tickets, visit smtickets.com.
philippine tatler . august 2015
what’s on | CONCIERGE
aug 8
With big international acts flying into the city as well as local talents giving all that they’ve got, there’s plenty to choose from this month
Mt Mayon Triathlon A scenic tour of the city and the Mayon volcano, the course comprises a 1.5 km swim off Legazpi Boulevard, a 40 km bike ride from the rustic landscape and into the city, and a 10 km coastal run to complete the last leg of the course. Legazpi City, Albay.
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Sheppard Best known for their catchy single “Geronimo,” the Australian indie pop band will be performing in a free concert for their fans to promote their current album Bombs Away. At SM Mall of Asia Music Hall, Pasay City.
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Echosmith The pop rock band returns to Manila to stage their first major concert in the Philippines, bringing with them their shiny and synth-powered ‘80s-influenced sound. At the Samsung Hall, SM Aura, Taguig City.
17 Passion Pit The American indietronica band comes to Manila to give indie music lovers a real treat. Another indie favourite, Stars, will be performing with them. At the World Trade Centre, Pasay City.
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Cody Simpson Australian pop singer and actor Cody Simpson comes to Manila with his hits “iYiYi,” “All Day,” and “On My Mind.” At the Newport Theatre in Resorts World Manila, Pasay City.
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Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs Repertory Manila breathes new life into this classic fairy tale as it takes it to the stage. The production is directed by Joy Virata, with music by Michael Valenti and book and lyrics by Elsa Rael. At the Onstage Theatre at Greenbelt 1, Makati City.
Planetshakers This movement began as a conference and grew into a church in Melbourne, Australia. Catch the worship band live on the 13th or 14th. At the Smart Araneta Coliseum, Quezon City.
For further details, visit
philtatler.com/calendar
Kadayawan Festival The 30th edition of the annual celebration will be a big event. The festival celebrates the country’s highest peak, Mt Apo; the durian fruit; and “walingwaling,” the queen of Philippine orchids. At Davao City.
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triple Threats The first in a series of solo concerts features multi-awarded composer Jesse Lucas, whose film music has been heard all over the world. At the CCP Little Theatre, Pasay City.
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Edinburgh
japan
Buenos Aires
nevada
7–31 August
8–16 august
12–25 August
30 August–7 September
One of the largest performing arts festivals in the world, the Edinburgh International Festival features more than 3,000 shows comprising theatre, comedy, dance and music. eif.co.uk
Obon, Japan’s version of the hungry ghosts festival, commemorates the return of ancestral spirits with matsuri dance, floating lanterns and games. japan-guide.com
Put on your dancing shoes for Tango Buenos Aires, a two-week extravaganza of concerts, shows and open-air milongas, as well as the Tango World Championships. festivales.buenosaires.gob.ar
Tens of thousands of revellers gather in the desert for Burning Man where they’ll build Black Rock City in a wild celebration of art, community and self expression. burningman.org
philippine tatler . august 2015
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laugh out loud Xavier Btesh and Evelyn Lim Forbes are all smiles as they gamely posed for a photo at the Nigel Barker book launch
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hong kong tatler . month year
faces The people, the parties, and the events
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Philippine Tatler Traveller launch, Dom Perignon event with James Suckling, Nigel Barker’s book launch
Fashionable Filipinas are spotted wearing enviable outfits in prints as well as those with uneven hems
The events around the city and environs that livened up the social calendar in the recent months
Stunning beauty and fashion plate Linda Ley shares some of her striking outfits
soiree
leading LADIES
hong kong tatler . month year
onlooker
it girl
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Mia Borromeo, David Batchelor, Barbara Aboitiz, Sevrine Miailhe, Irene Martel Francisco
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philippine tatler . august 2015
soiree | faces
Clarissa Delgado and Lizzie Zobel
Opulent Odysseys celebrating the art of travel and life’s fine pleasures
To launch its latest luxe issue, Philippine Tatler Traveller held a summer cocktail party at the Raffles and Fairmont Makati Ballroom. The event showcased dishes from the destinations represented in the glossy’s pages, like Paris, the location of the cover story featuring best friends Barbara Aboitiz and Sevrine Miailhe. The evening began with martinis, chilled bubbly, red wine, and a smorgasbord of the finest hors d’oeuvres prepared by the Raffles executive chefs. On view were beautiful vignettes by global brands like The Bellevue Manila, Bugatti, Creed, Herve Chapelier, Ipanema, Jewelmer, La Mer, Lexus, Pandora, Raffles, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Stuart Weitzman, Turkish Airlines, and Two Seasons Island Resort & Spa Coron. The Philippine Tatler’s publisher and managing director Irene Martel-Francisco and Tatler Traveller editor Mia Borromeo welcomed guests and led the celebratory toast. A marvelous raffle of luxury treats—including a Jewelmer South Sea pearl pendant won by Stephanie Kienle Gonzalez and a roundtrip ticket to Istanbul on Turkish Airlines won by Patxi Elizalde—capped off the event. philippine tatler . august 2015
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the insider
Ambassador Luis Calvo and Maria Jose Carrasco
The table is laden with cheeses and other treats from around the world
Norby and Wynn Wynn Ong
Cristina Cu, Gi Sicat, Arlene Cu, Missy Ayala Catherine Huang and Luzanne Manlapit
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Marilen Elizalde
philippine tatler . august 2015
soiree | faces
Hans Sicat and Ernest Cu
Neny Montinola and Miguel Aboitiz
Jacques Christophe Branellec and Alexandre Catoire
Patxito Elizalde, So fia and Patxi Elizalde , Monica Olondriz
Esperanza and Alejandro Padilla, Frannie Jacinto
Fine food and wine, exciting raffle prizes, A-list crowd—a great combination for a successful event
philippine tatler . august 2015
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The Old Hall at the National Museum was the magnificent setting for the Dom Pérignon dinner
Lea Salonga
A Sparkling Night it was a dom pÉrignon event like no other at the iconic National Museum
A by-invitation-only dinner was recently hosted by luxury champagne brand Dom Pérignon. The Peninsula Manila’s Executive Chef Mike Wehlre prepared a five-course meal of dishes boosting the tasting notes found in each glass of Dom Pérignon. For the first course, the Poached Blue Lobster was partnered with Dom Pérignon 2004. This was followed by the Just Seared Tuna Tataki paired with Dom Pérignon Rose 2003. Next on the menu was Poached and Glazed Veal Shank with Dom Pérignon P2 1996, then the Brei de Meaux Two Ways accompanied by Dom Pérignon P2 Rose 1995. The last course was the Golden Chocolate Mango Sphere paired with Dom Pérignon 2004. Internationally acclaimed wine critic and Asia Tatler Wine Editor James Suckling shared with guests his thoughts and experiences with the respected champagne house. The event was co-hosted by Moët Hennessy Philippines Managing Director Steven Bullock.
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philippine tatler . july 2015
soiree | faces Mary Suckling
Steven Bullock and James Suckling
Jonathan and Stephanie Zubiri-Crespi
Olga Azarcon, and Wiboon Arunthanes
philippine tatler . august 2015
Mario Katigbak
Renna Hechanova-Angeles
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Jojie Dingcong and Tessie Prieto
, Vicki Virgie Ramos arker B Belo, Nigel
Maurice Arcache
Marianne Po and Myrna Yao
Marilu Batchelor and Mons Romulo
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Therese Coronel Santos Walter and Susan Joven
philippine tatler . august 2015
soiree | faces Cris Albert
Vicky Zubiri
Zelda and Max Kienle
Bambina Olivares and Ian Giron
Shooting Star
World-renowned photographer Nigel Barker visited Manila to promote his second book
Jessica Kienle and Jesse Maxwell
philippine tatler . august 2015
An intimate group welcomed international fashion photographer Nigel Barker at the launch of his latest book, Models of Influence. Hosted by Swatch President Virgie Ramos in partnership with Philippine Tatler, the event held at the Swatch Building in Makati had a glamorous yet laid-back feel. Guests—including high society personalities, models, designers, retail bigwigs, and celebrities—all lined up to have their copies signed and get their pictures taken with the man of the hour. Programme emcee Tessa Prieto Valdes’ bubbly personality and witty remarks prompted enthusiastic cheers from the energetic crowd, who were especially thrilled to hear from Barker himself how delighted he was to be back in the Philippines. They also enjoyed the sumptuous bites prepared by chef Gilbert Pangilinan of Kai Restaurant and the free-flowing Moët et Chandon champagne and Belvedere vodka served all throughout the night.
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faces | soiree
Matteo Guidicelli and Tessa Prieto-Valdes
Mia Arcena and Ludovic Branellec
the insider
Nigel Barker’s Models of Influence was an instant bestseller and sold out in a week!
Gabriel and Julie Boschi
Ching Cruz Kylie Tinga and Kaye Tinga
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Carla Tengco and Anton Mendoza
philippine tatler . august 2015
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philippine tatler . august 2015
close-up | faces
Rich Pickings
image: Dave Anderson
Crazy Rich Asians author Kevin Kwan talks to Samantha Leese about his second book, his coming film and why the lavish culture of Asia’s upper crust has captured everybody’s imagination was looking for something that would describe the kind of rich that only exists in Mainland China: This instant, overnight, gargantuan fortune of the sort that could only have been made in China.” So says Kevin Kwan of the title of his new book, China Rich Girlfriend, an outlandish, witty and insightful satire of Asian high society published last month by Doubleday. It’s the sequel to Kwan’s 2013 bestseller, Crazy Rich Asians, which drew such an enthusiastic following in his native Singapore that the acronym CRA has become “part of the lingo” for describing a certain kind of person. Kwan, currently working on the film adaptation of his first novel due on screens next year, says book two offers readers “the same DNA,” but in writing it he wanted to challenge himself, to “shake things up a bit.” Set mainly in Singapore and Hong Kong, Crazy Rich Asians tells of the Shang family and its three competing clans. Nicholas Young, the handsome heir to one of Asia’s great fortunes, enjoys a low-key life as a professor in New York. Unwittingly, he sparks a blaze of gossip and backbiting when he brings his US-born Chinese girlfriend, Rachel Chu, home to Singapore for his best friend’s wedding. China Rich Girlfriend takes place on the eve of Rachel’s wedding to Nick, who has become estranged from his powerful yet elusive family. The couple’s search for Rachel’s father, whom she has never known, pulls them into the audacious world of Shanghai’s super wealthy. “Being Chinese, you think you can sort of relate, but it’s nothing like what I expected,” Kwan says of his research trips to Mainland China. “You see the unique differences of what [the country] has become and the people it has produced in the last 50 years. For me, writing this book became a method of understanding the place.”
philippine tatler . august 2015
The novel gleefully parodies the stereotypes associated with the Chinese nouveau riche, stereotypes that Hongkongers delight in analysing—though, Kwan observes, the reality is more nuanced. “China is going into its adolescence of money. We’re seeing habits, levels of sophistication and modes of behaviour shift as a result.” Nonetheless, “the stuff that happens there is just jaw-dropping,” he says of his trips to Shanghai. “It’s amazing how much people will display of themselves.” That proved to be a problem for Kwan in the editing process; he struggled to keep many elements of the story from being cut for the sake of credibility. “I’ve always felt that truth is stranger than fiction when it comes to details,” he says. “My editor in New York can’t even conceive of this level of ostentation and spending. There were several scenes where she was like, ‘Come on, no one’s going to believe this’.” Kwan points to the culture of racing exotic sports cars on public roads—often to spectacular ruin—as one example of such excess. Another is the acquisition of private jumbo jets kitted out like five-star resorts. In response to his editor’s concerns, he would send links to local newspaper articles to prove “you can’t make this stuff up.” A second storyline in China Rich Girlfriend unfolds in Hong Kong, where former soap opera star Kitty Pong is desperately trying to climb the ranks of a social order indifferent to her deployment of diamonds, couture and the occasional Russian wolfhound. She enlists the help of old-money heiress Corinna Ko-Tung, who promises that with careful reinvention of personal history, “practically anyone can rise up in Hong Kong society.” Kwan engaged in less active reconnaissance in Hong Kong than in Shanghai, though he notes with a laugh that this magazine’s Faces pages provided a “bountiful gift of inspiration.” It’s a city he knows well, and he has family from Hong Kong with considerable cachet—he’s related to none other than
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“It’s interesting to see how a storyline that could have been in a Jane Austen novel is relevant to modern Asian families” Nancy Kwan, the star of 1960’s iconic The World of Suzie Wong. “The scandals, the gossip, the stories… these are things that have permeated my life since birth,” Kwan says. “I never thought I would actually, some day, find a place to put all this stuff.” Kwan’s attention to detail and his grasp of who’s who—and how thinly to veil their true identities—is so assured it leaves no doubt he grew up in the world he seeks, in the nicest possible way, to ridicule. “[If ] Crazy Rich Asians was very much my valentine to Singapore, China Rich Girlfriend is my valentine to Hong Kong and Shanghai,” he says. “I wanted to make people laugh, but I also wanted to make people think about the ramifications of what’s happening in China, how it affects [the rest of Asia] and the world. What does it mean for the next generation, now that they’ve experienced this decadence?” The international appeal of Crazy Rich Asians was not lost on moviemakers. Within weeks of it hitting bookstores, Hollywood came calling. “This book caused quite a stir in Los Angeles,” says Brad Simpson, president of the studio that eventually won the film rights,
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Color Force, best known for producing The Hunger Games. “It’s rare to read something so fresh. We had to fight multiple big-name producers for it.” Color Force founder Nina Jacobson says she was drawn to the world of Kwan’s debut book as one she had never experienced. “You ask yourself, what movies demand communal viewing? What kinds of stories are best seen in the dark with strangers, on a big screen? They’re the kinds of stories that transport you.” The romance between Rachel and Nick, and the snobbery and prejudice they face, were irresistible to Jacobson, who notes, “Romance is only as great as the obstacles between the lovers.” Adds Simpson, “It’s interesting to see how a storyline that could have been in a Jane Austen novel is relevant to modern Asian families in Singapore and Hong Kong.” Along with John Penotti of Ivanhoe Pictures, which is financing the film, Simpson led a location-scouting expedition to Hong Kong last spring. On the itinerary was dinner at the China Club with some of the city’s leading young socialites, which gave Simpson insight into the current spirit of high society. Filming is yet to begin, but the producers aim to release the movie in autumn next year. Kwan, who is “very involved” in the adaptation, says it will be shot as much as possible on location. All are keeping tightlipped about casting for now. Kwan will only say that if he could wish for anyone to star in the film, it would be Nancy Kwan (presumably as Nick’s grandmother and the family’s formidable matriarch, Shang Su Yi). While most of the cast is likely to be made up of established and rising actors of East Asian descent, Simpson says the role of Rachel may go to an unknown actor from Britain, Canada or the US. Fans of the book have compiled their own dream casts on blogs and in magazines, with top choices including Taiwan’s Godfrey Gao (as Nick), South Korea’s Clara Lee (as Kitty Pong), Joan Chen (as Rachel’s mother, Kerry) and Hong Kong’s own Edison Chen (as the playboy Bernard Tai). The actors will be playing characters loosely based, by Kwan’s own admission, on real people. For a certain crowd, Crazy Rich Asians inspired a great guessing game, one that has been a source of fascination for Kwan—and thankfully a source of no serious scandal. “I haven’t had a glass of champagne thrown in my direction,” he says. “Yet.” philippine tatler . august 2015
IMAGE: JEFF FANTICH
faces | close-up
tatlings | faces
Photography: melson bolongaita; Words: astra c alegre; make-up: al de leon of mac cosmetics; hair: demi salvador of menage premier salon; location: living innovations showroom
Busy Bee To say that Kat Sicat is a very active young lady would be an understatement. She is currently studying philosophy, politics, and economics at an interdisciplinary course at the University of Pennsylvania. She’s a member of the university’s Penn Dance Company and CityStep, a service group that goes to public schools in West Philadelphia twice a week to teach dance. Sicat decided to take the last semester off when she learnt she was drafted into the Philippine Pythons, the country’s first touch rugby national women’s team, which participated in the last World Cup held in Australia. She also took part in Jim Ayala’s socio-enterprise, Stiftung Solarenergie Philippines, which aims to bring solar energy to off-grid communities. When she returns to university this September, she will work as a writing tutor at the writing centre for undergrad and graduate students.
“What I got from my semester off is just as valuable as a semester in school. I’m so happy I did it” hong kong tatler . month year
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faces | leading ladies
Making a Statement These ladies are sure to have stolen the show by donning striking, eye-catching prints Tessa PrietoValdes
Stephanie Zubiri
rajo laurel These Ippolita 18c Gold London Blue Topaz bangles add a touch of sparkle to this ensemble
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rhett eala Add a dramatic flair to this look with a pair of Linda Farrow’s 324 sunglasses
Michelle Barrera
Eric delos santos Add a pop of colour to this outfit with this yellow Alice bag by Furla
philippine tatler . august 2015
faces | leading ladies
It’s All About the Hem Above the knee, ankle length, or tulip hems are perfect for demure, feminine ensembles Jessica Tan Gan
Barbara Aboitiz
halston Cartier’s Tank Française diamond watch adds a bit of shine to this outfit
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eric raisina This colourful clutch by Salvatore Ferragamo is the perfect accent to this look
Pie Alvarez
charina sarte Brighten up a white outfit with these bubble gum pink suede pumps by Saint Laurent
philippine tatler . august 2015
faces | onlooker
FrancoisXavier Severin
At Long Last Longchamp finally opened its first stand-alone boutique in the Philippines after being exclusively distributed by Rustan’s for over two decades. The 63 sq metre store in Greenbelt 5 displays the latest Longchamp handbags and accessories. A celebratory toast was given by Longchamp’s general manager for Asia Pacific, Francois-Xavier Severin, at the store opening, together with president of SSI Group, Inc, Anton Huang. Joining them were Ambassador Bienvenido Tantoco Snr, chairman emeritus of the Rustan Group of Companies, and Bienvenido Tantoco Jnr, a member of the board of directors of Rustan Commercial Corp.
Katrina Razon
Patti Manalang, Yumi Matsumoto, Karina Vera
Tessa PrietoValdes and Mikaela Lagdameo-Martinez
ntoco Snr ienvenido Ta B r o d sa as Jnr Amb nido Tantoco and Bienve
the insider
Bienvenido Tantoco Jnr excitedly chatted with the guests during the opening of the boutique
Chris Tantoco
Edna Luna and Mayenne Carmona
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Masha and Straun Boston
philippine tatler . august 2015
faces | onlooker
Joanna Teh Ambassador Asif Ahmad and Victoria Buenaventura
Long Live the Queen! The Manila celebration of the Queen’s 89th birthday, hosted by British Ambassador Asif Ahmad and his wife Zubeda, was executed with distinctive English elegance and charm. Political figures, businessmen, and members of the diplomatic corps enjoyed sumptuous food and wine from the four nations of the United Kingdom. Capping off the programme was an investiture ceremony for two Filipino staff members of the Consular Section at the British Embassy Manila who were honoured by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II for their exemplary service to the British community and to the victims of Typhoon Yolanda.
the insider
Vice Consul Victoria Buenaventura was one of the two Filipinos honoured by the Queen for exemplary service to the British community
Ambassador Guy Ledoux and Michael Hasper
ael Cruz, Gigi Montinola, Ism Bautista, ar es Ca Ambassador Oscar Reyes Jesus Yabes and Cleofe Natividad
Fortune Ledesma
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Ambassador Philip Goldberg
Simon Bewlay
philippine tatler . august 2015
SLEEP LIKE BRITISH ROYALTY. Breathe life into your home with luxe linens by John Lewis.
John Lewis is now available at SM Aura • SM Makati • SM Megamall • SM North Edsa
faces | onlooker
the insider
“We are excited to be working with SM and Our Home buyers to bring the best of our bed, bath, tableware, and home accessories products to the Philippines,” said Katie Jordan Katie Jordan, Louise Jones, Tessie Sy-Coson
British Touch
Issie Lewis, Trevor and Claire Lewis
Iain Mansfield and Millie Dizon
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John Lewis, Great Britain’s largest department store group, opened its first shopin-shop at SM Makati. This branch is the first of 11 set to open in different SM Retail Locations across the Philippines this year. Shoppers were charmed by a wide array of home products including bed, bath, tableware, and home accessories. “We hope our slice of British heritage right here in SM department store will surprise and delight customers and add to the rich mix of home products available in-store,” said Katie Jordan, John Lewis head of International Development.
Hans Sy Catherine Day
Fiona Malca and Sonan Balani
Chris Nelson
philippine tatler . august 2015
tech art Samsung Galaxy S6 and Galaxy S6 Edge were unveiled during Samsung’s S Carpet: Art & Fashion event, held at the SM Fashion Hall in Megamall. Glass sculptor Ramon Orlina made an exclusive six-piece collection that included the work “Cutting Edge,” which had an actual Galaxy S6 Edge within the sculpture. Jeweller Marilou Co created an ultrachic phone case for the Galaxy S6 with 60 brilliant diamonds set in pure 18-carat yellow and white gold. A fashion show featuring works of designers from the Fashion & Design Council of the Philippines was also showcased.
Leo Espinosa, Harry Lee, Ching Cruz, Minsu Chu, Tina Cuevas
Ramon Orlina the insider
Solenn Heussaff and Georgina Wilson were introduced as the new brand ambassadors for Samsung Galaxy S6 and S6 Edge
Jackie Aquino, Jack De Mesa, Anthony Nocom
Solenn Heussaff and Georgina Wilson
Rhinn Piczon and Ivan Pua
philippine tatler . august 2015
Marilou Co
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faces | onlooker
On the Sixth Trusted hair loss solutions expert Svenson kicked off its 34th anniversary with the opening of its new branch at RCBC Savings Bank Corporate Centre, The Fort. Longtime celebrity clients and endorsers joined Svenson’s George and Mimi Siy, and Angeline Fiechter for the ribbon-cutting ceremonies, sumptuous buffet, and the latest treatment. With the addition of this new division, Svenson is now six branches strong.
Philip Cu-Unjieng, Angeline Fiechter, Mimi and George Siy
Allan Caidic
the insider
George and Mimi Siy have been married for 18 years
Chico Garcia and Chris Schneider
Gino Quillamor
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Champ Lui Pio, Ronaldo and Jackie Laudico
NJ Torres
philippine tatler . august 2015
the insider
Erik Cua is one of the owners of the most popular club in Manila, Valkyrie
one more time A special reunion party to celebrate the glory days of Embassy Club, the hippest place to be a decade ago, was held recently at Privé Luxury Club. DJ Mars Miranda played classic hip-hop and RnB hits, reminiscent of Embassy’s signature “Snap, Crackle, Pop” night; while DJ Ace Ramos played tunes that were hits during Embassy’s heyday. At around 1 am, Tim Yap, one of the founders of Embassy, delivered a special video message and thanked all those who had supported the club. DJs Martin Pulgar and Marc Naval kept the party going until the wee hours of the morning.
Erik Cua, GP Reyes, Aslie Aslanian, Fernando Aracama
Ace Ramos, Rico Arce, Marc Nava l, Martin Pulgar, Da vid Ardiente, Paolo Av ila
Celine Lopez and Wendy Puyat
TonyToni, Leah De Guzman, Phoemela Baranda, Divine Lee, Dong Ronquillo
JM Rodriguez
philippine tatler . august 2015
Louie Ysmael and Manolet Dario
Luanne De Lima and Keith Haw
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faces | it girl
Que Linda!
bcbg
Always a head-turner everywhere she goes, Linda Ley is the epitome of elegance and grace
oji
Tadashi sh
the insider
jun escario You won’t go wrong with this crystal clutch by Jimmy Choo, which completes this sexy, sophisticated look
ixiah rajo laurel
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bebe philippine tatler . august 2015
tatler focus | wilcon one-stop shop Facade of Grohe
Building Bigger Ideas Construction industry pioneer Wilcon welcomes patrons to its newest home
F
or over 30 years, Wilcon has been a trusted name in the business of construction in the Philippines, providing a comprehensive range of supplies and services for builders of homes, and spaces of all shapes and sizes in over 30 stores across the country. Driven to build big ideas, the company is constantly expanding its portfolio of products and services to satisfy the ever evolving needs of its market. In its
endless pursuit of excellence, Wilcon established Desigño Atelier, the newest mecca for aficionados of luxury home design and furnishings. This four-storey contemporary design boutique in Quezon City is the first of its kind. Having opened its doors in April 2014, Desigño Atelier serves as a gallery bringing together the sleekest, most technologicallyadvanced, and most coveted home furnishings for the local industry to see and experience firsthand. The extensive selections feature
products from some of the most sought-after international home brands. These designs are guaranteed to indulge the discriminating tastes of today’s home builders and owners. Desigño Atelier’s first level features a home spa theme with bath and kitchen fixtures from Grohe, the world leader in sanitation fittings. This is the German brand’s flagship showroom in the Philippines and is designed after its stores in London, Paris, Milan, New York, and Singapore. To provide every customer a comprehensive and enlightening visit, Grohe’s displays are organised into nine different modules: brand path, showroom opener, aqua zone, tailor-made showering, bathroom mock-up units, Grohe spa product display, live water area, sanitary systems, and a customer lounge where buyers can discuss and review the different furnishing options for their own space.
The brand’s premium products found in the showroom include the latest technologies such as F-Digital Deluxe, an ultra-slim and intuitive device that allows you to control the settings of your own spa in your personal space, and the minimalist Allure Brilliant and the classic Veris, signature bathroom fixtures with stunning shower system designs. The kitchen faucets are also commendable. The Minta Touch features touch-sensitive technology that promotes hygiene and comfort, while the Red and Blue faucet series dispenses hot and even sparkling water straight from the tap. Another global brand, Kohler, has its first Philippine showroom on the second level of the design hub. The space is divided into several bathroom display modules built with the American brand’s top of the line plumbing and
sanitation products that are guaranteed to deliver the best in style, function, and comfort. Customers will be able to get a firsthand experience of the new technologies featured in these fittings at designated areas around the showroom. The Moxie Showerhead is among the many new innovations introduced by the Wisconsin-based brand. With built-in waterproof speakers that can be synced to your own music player, it elevates a regular shower into a holistic sensorial experience that you can look forward to everyday. The new Kohler rose gold faucet is an ideal accent for your tub or sink. The vibrant yet refined finish adds a long-lasting elegance to your bathroom. Numi, meanwhile, is Kohler’s most advanced toilet. Through a combination of modern design and unmatched engineering, it is both a stylish and efficient bathroom fixture.
The third level houses an interesting mix of tiles of all colours and sizes from suppliers such as Versace Ceramics, Gardenia Orchidea, Grespania Ceramica, and Novabell. Hailing from Italy and Spain, these brands are renowned for their variety of creative and environmental designs. The ceramic tiles, while pleasing to the eyes, are also crafted from eco-friendly materials, making any selection a smart purchase. With such a wide array of options available, you are sure to find the right kind for any room in your home. Displayed on the fourth level are Kohler Kitchen’s world class kitchen cabinets with complementary fixtures such as kitchen and bar sinks, and faucets. Available for the first time ever in the Philippines, these pieces come in a variety of styles that fit any customer’s design requirements. Vistors will also find the striking displays of Franke
Kitchen Systems on this floor. The Swiss brand’s showcase includes its collection of kitchen sinks, taps, and appliances such as ventilation hoods, hobs, and ovens. These modern designs support the need for a kitchen that is stylishly functional. At Natuzzi Editions’ display, customers will find choice recommendations for that living room. Create the ultimate lounging experience in your space with a sofa from the Italian brand’s selection: leather or fabric, stationary or moving. The available styles will fit any design motif, whether classic, contemporary, or anything in between. American brand Baldwin displays its collection of chic and efficient locksets on the same floor. From doorknobs to levers, handlesets and
simple lock systems, all of the brand’s products promise the ultimate in home safety technology. The patented Smart Key feature enables users to easily re-key locks using a “learning tool” that programs it to “dismiss” an old key that may have been stolen or lost. The Side Locking Bar Technology, meanwhile, prevents lock picking. All brands in Desigño Atelier are exclusively carried by Wilcon. Brimming with a variety of styles and quality, home builders, owners, and design enthusiasts alike will find every visit to this design hub a truly inspiring and productive one. n
BASIC utIlItIeS (From top) Kitchen fauctes; Kohler kitchen; Aquazone omnibus
image: Olivier Saillant
A GRAND AFFAIR Chanel’s latest campaign star, supermodel Cara Delevingne, walks hand in hand with Karl Lagerfeld in a tiered cape dress made out of delicate lace for the show’s finale at Hotel Schloss Leopoldskron
style Beautiful things to have and hold
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Find your favourite in Stuart Weitzman’s recent collection
Fashion designer Charina Sarte and some of the items she can’t live without
Add a touch of glam to your look with chic and stylish items
Feed your fashion fantasy with fancy fabrics and whimsical
Do away with extravagant accessories and go with simple ones
walking in beauty
design diva
bold, brassy, and beautiful
On to dreamland
beyond the foundation
STYLE | news
The Hills Are Alive Crafty knits, sumptuous tweed jackets and fuzzy outerwear are just some of the looks Chanel has in store for autumn, so get ready to warm up your wardrobe Dallas, Edinburgh, Dubai, and Moscow were just a few of the cities that Chanel selected to showcase the illustrious Chanel Métiers d’Art presentations. This year, Karl Lagerfeld waltzes us through Salzburg, Austria, to the Hotel Schloss Leopoldskron, a former palace. In addition to incorporating elements from the rich heritage of the Austro-Hungarian empire, the maison also notes that it was on a trip to Austria that Mademoiselle Chanel was inspired to design her iconic tweed jacket. Alpine florals and animals are precisely placed on pinaforeand dirndl-style dresses, coat collars, and even the cult-favourite Boy bags. Rows of ruffles with pearl chokers adorn the high necklines of blouses, which peer out of various outerwear looks. The delicate finishing touches aren’t overlooked, either—hand-crafted brooches portray antique wall clocks and cable cars, while lace-up mountaineering boots include a series of gold charms depicting everything from Austrian beer steins to baby deer.
FASHION EMPIRE Karl Lagerfeld muse Charlotte Free (above) wears a butterfly-embroidered blouse, while campaign front-runner Cara Delevingne (left) goes monochrome from top-to-toe with floral intarsias
What’s in your wardrobe, Marivic Rufino? “My style is simple, low key, and elegant. I dress according to the occasion and my mood. Sometimes, I go for eclectic and colourful, other times I stick to classic and cool pieces. Friends say that my style and colours are like my dreamscape paintings. Some of the brands I’ve worn for many years are Chanel, Gucci, Hermès, LV, Prada as well as casual Zara and H&M. I like mixing and matching my accessories. For events, I wear cocktail dresses or gowns by BCBG MaxAzria, or sleek, simple gowns by Inno Sotto, Rajo Laurel, and Rhett Eala. For work, I wear basic white shirts, cream or pastel tops with beige or pastel pants. I have blazers and suits for important business events.
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Bag by Furla; Pumps by Christian Louboutin; Dress by Gucci
philippine tatler . august 2015
Star Gazer Let your accessories shine with stars or a little hint of sparkle
Label lover Givenchy by
Mark Bumgarner Brand Origin Manila Designer’s Background Before ruling the runway, fashion designer Mark Bumgarner was making a splash on the racetrack. He has represented the country numerous times in international racing competitions, and was the first from the Philippines to qualify in the Macau Karting Gran Prix Formula A class. In 2012 he decided to take a plunge into the fashion industry, and started attending a series of design courses in Central Saint Martins in London. Bumgarner never looked back and has now presented six collections, two of which were shown at the Manila Fashion Festival, and has expanded his services to bridal wear through his atelier. Design Signatures His designs celebrate elegance, timeless glamour, and supreme craftsmanship. His atelier is mainly focused on custom evening and bridal wear. Meticulously handmade in-house by his team, Bumgarner’s creations are expertly cut from individually crafted patterns and are sewn with utmost care and quality.
For his f/w 2015 collection, he was inspired by the feel of luxurious fabrics and the movement they create Inspiration Sources Bumgarner believes inspiration is everywhere, from mundane things he sees everyday to exciting cities he gets to visit. As a designer, he appreciates minute details and believes they are key to inspiration and creation and separates designers from the rest. For his f/w 2015 collection, he was inspired by the feel of luxurious fabrics and the movement they create through nonconventional patterns and shapes. He also drew inspiration from his clients, the women who are the heart and soul of his brand.
Saint Laurent
Jimmy Choo
Ports 1961
Lanvin
Lighten Up
Feeling lucky? Try your hand at these casino gameinspired clutches from Kotur. Exclusively available online starting from 15 August, these minaudières light up at the flip of a switch—some are even sound-activated. philippine tatler . august 2015
Roger Vivier
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STYLE | news
Back to the Drawing Board Add graphic lines to knitwear, coats and plimsoll shoes for an artistic wardrobe refresh Clean lines and strong shapes coupled with artisanal construction—that’s what you’re going to get from Canali this season. Creative consultant and menswear designer Andrea Pompilio used a surprising pop of canary yellow on double-breasted coats; the rest of the collection remained more sombre, with shades of grey and various styles of stripes and checks. It was the slight geometric illusions, such as the high-necked sweater that really caught our attention. Meanwhile, Valentino looked to the art world for a fresh take. For autumn/winter 2015, the brand championed the work of 26-year-old Melbourne-based artist Esther Stewart. Her abstract artworks, often incorporating only a few simple shapes, were beautifully translated onto everything from cashmere overcoats to crewneck knits, and even to the set-up of the show. We also couldn’t help but notice that Valentino’s signature rucksack got the Stewart treatment, too. Colour blocks were also applied to accessories, such as the running shoe from Bally.
Black Magic Choose all-black accessories for high-impact streetwear
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Givenchy by Riccardo Tisci
Lanvin
Giorgio Armani
Saint Laurent
philippine tatler . august 2015
Photography: Jason Lloyd-Evans (Canali, Valentino)
SUNNY SHADES (Clockwise from top) Models backstage at Canali; Sneakers by Bally; Backpack and look by Valentino
To Dye For
Carryalls, briefcases and totes from Louis Vuitton are revamped and given an ombré treatment. Available in tobacco brown and anthracite grey with subtle monogram detailing, these bags will serve you equally well in the city and on the road.
GIVE ’EM THE SCOOT Crafted from polished calf leather or soft suede, the Brighton slipper is notable for its stylish contrast trimming
Slip On, Zip Off Torn between the fine finishes of a dress shoe and the ease of a slip-on? Luckily loafers just got an injection of elegance courtesy of Corthay and their Brighton slipper. Referencing the attitude of the mod subculture movement of the 1960s, these shoes encompass the spirit of a carefree yet polished sense of dressing. Team them with differently coloured socks and denim for a modern look, or with a tailored suit with a slightly cropped trouser for a smartcasual occasion.
philippine tatler . august 2015
LABEL LOVER
Coach
Brand Origin New York Designer’s Background Stuart Vevers, Coach’s creative director, previously held the post of creative director at Loewe and was also awarded the British Fashion Council’s Accessory Designer of the Year in 2006. Brand Philosophy Perhaps one of the most drastic transformations of a US label to date, Vevers has reinvigorated the heritage brand and given it a more youthful feel since its first line of readyto-wear in 2014. Notably, Vevers enlisted contemporary artist Gary Baseman for a recent collaboration, where his cartoon-like graphics were decorated on women’s knits, bags and even outerwear. Latest Collection Autumn/winter 2015 marks the debut of menswear for Coach, and Vevers showcases a collection of strong and heavy-duty outerwear. Coach is first and foremost a leather goods company, so it should come as no surprise that he has utilised this material to the fullest. Leather shearling-trimmed coats, fur-trimmed camouflage parkas, leather bombers and blousons are styled with thin trousers and chunky footwear. And in terms of leather goods, Coach’s signature satchel is transformed into a cool leather messenger bag.
STYLE | focus
Walking in Beauty Luxurious, comfortable, and sexy, Stuart Weitzman’s latest collection is everything a fashionable woman needs and more, writes Mitch Tizon-dela Paz hey make women’s hearts race, cheeks flush, and palms sweat—and we’re not talking about men. We’re talking about shoes—stylish, fabulous pairs worthy of heart palpitations. Ah, the long, passionate affairs women have had with shoes! They’re far more exhilarating and harder to resist than any romantic fling women have come across. There are different reasons behind ladies’ obsession with shoes, and Stuart Weitzman, one of the most recognisable names in designer footwear, is one of them. A favourite of shoe-loving females across the globe, the brand is committed to creating excitement across all generations of women. Designed with both form and function in mind, each pair is carefully engineered to achieve the perfect fit, handcrafted using only the finest leathers, natural materials, and exquisite adornments—everything a fashionable girl could ask for. For its most recent collection, the brand returns to the designer’s roots, as demonstrated by a deft display of masterfully executed silhouettes, dazzling details, and opulent materials. The collection is made up of stunning pieces that are sure to make Cinderella’s glass slippers feel like basic. One of the stars of the season is the seductive Legwrap sandal, set atop a single sole, and pairing a stiletto heel with anklelacing detail for maximum sex appeal. The dominance of the timeless gladiator silhouette
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footworks (Top) An artist’s sketch of the Backview, a gladiator-silhouette sandal; (bottom) The Nudist sandal has become a red carpet favourite of Hollywood’s fashion elite
Designed with both fashion and function in mind, each pair is carefully engineered to achieve the perfect fit continues with the Sparta, a strappy statement piece that hits just below the knee and embraces the calf with serpentine leather laces. For a spunky, sexy appeal, the streamlined and sleek Rockerchic is the perfect pair, with its season-appropriate palette (fossil and praline suede) and a contrasting buffed heel. The Collegiate is a total standout—part loafer, part sandal, and 100 per cent statement-maker, it melds multiple traditions into one striking silhouette, with a sleek ankle strap seamlessly incorporated with the loafer vamp. Offered in patent and textured metallic leather, this cleverly tweaked menswear essential shines. From show-stopping stilettos to stylish slides to sporty slip-ons, this collection houses a captivating array of silhouettes— each remarkably refined and perfectly polished, meant to make every woman swoon and stand out.
gam glamour
One of the stars of the season is the seductive Legwrap sandal, set atop a single sole, and pairing a stiletto heel with anklelacing detail for maximum sex appeal
philippine tatler . august 2015
STYLE | profile
"This is one of my favourite pieces from my Resort'16 collection. It's a versatile beach soiree outfit that you can wear from day to night with ease"
"SKII is another brand I love. It's the only product I use. I love it for its brightening components"
Know what works for your body type and work this in as many ways as possible "I'm obsessed with the entire range of scents from Tom Ford but Tobacco Vanille is my favourite"
Design Diva
Fashion designer Charina Sarte displays her impeccable taste and terrific fashion sense through some of her most precious finds harina sarte’s entry into the glamorous world of fashion was inevitable, having grown up surrounded by family members who were involved in it one way or another. She was simply never short on inspiration or influence. This, coupled with her natural talent for design and great eye for style, eventually led to her becoming one of Manila’s favourite young designers. One of the best things about Sarte’s creations is their wearabilty—a reflection of her own personal style—as she always considers what she herself would want to wear when conceptualising a new design. “I love dressing up at night when I go to parties and events, but I’m very laid back during the day,” she says. The 36-year-old fashionista spends her free time working out, shopping online, and dining out with family and friends.
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"I love anything Alaia. It's definitely one of the best designer shoes of all time"
"Chanel's boy bag is every girl's favourite, and I think this one needs no explanation"
philippine tatler . august 2015
Photography: kenji onglao; styling: samantha tidalgo; hair and make-up: sydney helmsley dagal; Words: mitch tizon-dela paz
white hot Charina Sarte in a dress from her Resort 2015 collection and Valentino shoes
Standard chartered bank | tatler focus
Up for the Challenge Standard Chartered Bank CEO Anirvan Ghosh Dastidar tells the story of his humble rise to his new perch
beyond limits Standard Chartered CEO Anirvan Ghosh Dastidar
wOrDS: ChArO LOGArtA-LAGAmOn
“I
volunteered to come to Manila. It was my choice,” said Anirvan Ghosh Dastidar, the newly-minted chief executive officer for the Philippines of Standard Chartered Bank. Only in his mid-40s, Dastidar is simple and low-key despite his high-profile role as country CEO of the oldest international banking institution in the Philippines. Established in 1872, Standard Chartered has been a key growth partner in the country, playing an integral role in the country’s attainment of investment grade status. A banker for the majority of his professional life, Dastidar began his career with ANZ Grindlays Bank before moving to Standard Chartered Bank where he worked his way up to senior positions. Prior to his appointment as CEO for the Philippines, he was chief executive of Standard Chartered Bank in Sri Lanka. “I know living here has its set of challenges, but the Philippines is a beautiful country and Manila is easy for expats,” remarked Dastidar. For the past six months, the Dastidar family has been getting attuned to the fastpaced Pinoy urban life that still exudes warmth and friendliness while enjoying the attractions— including an unforgettable experience swimming with the whalesharks in Oslob, Cebu. His awe for the Philippines extends towards the resiliency of the economy and the plethora of prospects and opportunities.
“Among Southeast Asian economies, it’s really the bright spot. Wealth management will continue to be important to us. Today’s banks are financial services centres, like a one-stop shop. There’s a growing middle and a young population with high disposable income. We have to help people manage their money.” Beyond charting and harnessing growth opportunities for Standard Chartered Bank, Dastidar is also passionate about
pursuing the triple bottom-line of profit, people, and planet. In Sri Lanka, he served as Chairman of the Lanka Business Coalition for HIV and AIDs, committed to creating awareness among the Corporates on the impact of the virus. Standard Chartered is currently focused on health and education programmes such as “Seeing is Believing,” which aims to address preventable blindness, and “Living with HIV,” its HIV and AIDS awareness and Financial Education programme. The bank
also works closely with global NGO partners, Philippine Red Cross and Habitat for Humanity and local NGOs Gawad Kalinga, Cataract Foundation of the Philippines Inc and Children’s Hour, among others “If the corporate sector can come together then we can solve many of the problems in the Philippines. Standard Chartered has been in the Philippines for over 140 years, and we strive to continually be part of a healthy and sustainable community.” n
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STYLE | top 10 picks
Bold, Brassy, and Beautiful
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In Good Hands
Neutral doesn’t have to be equated with dullness. Gems and textures add a touch of glam to these pieces in a subtle colour palette
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Twists and Turns Classic braided drop earrings in 18c gold by John Hardy
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Clutch from the Alexander McQueen spring/summer 2015 collection
Light Scentsibilities
Ananda Special Edition by M Micallef, available at Rustan’s
3 A Touch of Sparkle
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Conquest Classic ladies’ twotone diamondset watch by Longines
Ode to the Classics
The gold buckles add some drama to this structured handbag from the Saint Laurent Women spring/summer 2015 collection philippine tatler . august 2015
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Drops of Gold Pendant chain from the Voile D’Or collection by Jewelmer
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COILS OF WHIMSY Serpenti pink gold double coil bracelet by Bulgari
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fancy footwork Sparkly queen quartz sugar lace pumps by Stuart Weitzman
stunning stare Sophisticated Prada sunglasses ideal for fashionistas, available at Sunglass Haven
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CREAM CANVAS
Bottega Veneta’s spring/ summer 2015 collection delves into the core of classic femininity
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STYLE | fashion
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eAGLE SCOUT Dress by ChloĂŠ; heels by Gucci; bracelets, ring and bag by Saint Laurent
oasis
into the
Sun-friendly dresses, neutral outerwear, flowing fringes, and handcrafted accessories for your ultimate summer escapes Photography AMAR DAVED Styling claire carruthers Shot exclusively for Asia Tatler in Dubai
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DESERT ROSE Dress by Valentino; ring and bag by Saint Laurent
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palm springs Dress and shorts by Emilio Pucci; ring and bag by Saint Laurent; gold bangle by Kenneth Jay Lane; blue bangle by Hermès
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IN FULL BLOOM Sleeveless chiffon top with flat-stitched and fluted pleats, embroidered mesh gloves and straw hat, all by Chanel Haute Couture, with nails in Paradisio by Chanel
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MAGICAL MIRAGE Coat by Prada; shirt and bangle by Hermès; skirt by Temperley London; belt, rings and bracelet by Saint Laurent; heels by Gucci; earrings by Dolce & Gabbana; necklace by Kenneth Jay Lane
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SPRING BUDS what lies Bustier and flared beneath skirt Dressembroidered by with sequins and Temperley beads, London;trimmed scarf with flowers in by Athena tulle and silk Procopiou; organza, bracelets tulle and cape andSaint knitted rings by hat, all by Chanel Laurent Haute Couture
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Hair and Make-up: toni Malt; Model: Olga at Wilhelmina Dubai; special thanks to Arabian Adventures (arabian-adventures.com)
DENIM DREAMIN’ Scarf by Janavi; skirt, bracelets and rings by Saint Laurent; heels by Gucci; belt and cuffs by Hermès; stylist’s own earrings
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STYLE | fashion
business as
Usual
Suit up like you mean it. Look sharp and thoroughly put together with pieces that feature timeless cuts, classy details, and the perfect fit Photography mj suayan Styling samantha tidalgo Location bonifacio global city and ayala museum
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lean on me Grey wool suit, grey vest, white cotton button-down shirt, white linen pants, and black leather shoes—all by Hugo Boss
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brat pick Leather jacket, cotton button-down shirt, maroon knit necktie, belt, and maroon pants—all by Hugo Boss
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coat of arms Charcoal check coat in wool and tweed mix, cotton shirt, and brown wool mohair trousers—all by Dunhill, brown leather bag and black leather shoes by Salvatore Ferragamo
CAPTION LEDE Caption xxxxx xxx play shadow xxxxxxx xxxsuit and Grey wool xxxxxxx trousers,xxx cotton xxxxxxxx xxx shirt, button-down xxx xxxxxxx necktie, and leather xxx xxxxxxxx shoes—all by xxx xxxx Hugo Boss, bag by xxxxxxx. Salvatore Ferragamo
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stripes and stars Osny in knitwear, cotton twill trousers and suede loafers by Dunhill, bag by Salvatorre Ferragamo; Naigel in cotton cashmere polo and cotton twill trousers by Dunhill, leather loafers by Salvatore Ferragamo, sunglasses by Ray-Ban
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pinstripe gent Wool pinstriped suit, white cotton buttondown shirt, blue knit necktie, black leather shoes—all by Hugo Boss
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stair master Grey wool suit and pants and grey cotton button-down shirt—all by Dunhill, leather shoes by Hugo Boss
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grooming: anton patdu of mac cosmetics; hair: borge aloba; models: osny fernandez and naigel haran of elite manila
grey matters Osny in wool mix tweed check coat, cotton shirt, and wool mohair trousers by Dunhill, leather bag and shoes by Salvatore Ferragamo; Naigel in grey wool suit and pants, and cotton button-down shirt by Dunhill, leather shoes by Hugo Boss
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capital style Osny in grey wool suit, white cotton buttondown shirt, dark grey wool trousers, black leather belt, and midnight blue necktie—all by Hugo Boss
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STYLE | fashion
On To
Dreamland Lose yourself in a fashion fantasy made up of fancy fabrics, whimsical details, and a whole lot of drama Photography onin lorente Styling noel manapat Shot exclusively for Philippine Tatler in London
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street chic Black beaded sheath dress by Alberta Ferretti, tutu skirt by Repetto, white cutout laceup shoes by Charles & Keith
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smell the flowers Prussian blue blouse with gold trim by Alberta Ferretti
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on the edge Chiffon draped black blouse by Philosophy, medallion necklace by Alberta Ferretti
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into the woods Ballerina dress by Repetto, peacock feather neckpiece by Alberta Ferretti
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dream away Black leather moto jacket by Karen Millen, vintage tulle veil
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hair and make-up: charlotte Gaskell @ LHA; Model: ebony @ Storm; special thanks to philippine honorary investment and trade representative vic casim
Clean lines, muted tones, block colours and strong, angular shapes—this season, the most impactful accessories are the simple ones Photography Arthur Woodcroft Styling Sabrina j henry
the
eyond foundation
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BUILDING BLOCKS (Clockwise from top) Bag by Vionnet; sunglasses by Linda Farrow for Erdem; heel by Aquazzura
FeMININE FLAIR (Clockwise from top) Boot by Louis Vuitton; bag by Miu Miu; sunglasses by CĂŠline; bracelet by Uncommon Matters
CAPTION LEDE Caption xxxxx xxx xxxxxxx xxx xxxxxxx xxx xxxxxxxx xxx xxx xxxxxxx xxx xxxxxxxx xxx xxxx xxxxxxx.
TREASURE TROVE (Clockwise from top) Shoulder bag by Chanel; bag by Tod’s; clutch by Amélie Pichard
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set designer: thomas petherick at CLM; Photographer’s assistant: Jack GILL; stylist’s assistant: andrea Villanueva; set design assistant: danny Hyland
GOOD AS GOLD (Clockwise from top) Cuff by Arme de l’Amour; earring by Delfina Delettrez; hairpin by Belmacz; pendant by Tod’s
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PASTEL PERFECTION (Clockwise from top) Ankle boot by Alexander White; loafer by Tod’s; boot by Nicholas Kirkwood
IMAGE: GAVIN O’NEILL
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British model David Gandy on the pleasures of Italian island life and the summer scents from Dolce & Gabbana
Work the sexy, sultry look with dark, metallic eye shadows, red lips, and bronzed cheeks
This summer’s hottest nail shades are ice-cool, in mouth-watering hues from tangerine orange to strawberry pink
la dolce vita
hong kong tatler . month year
smouldering beauty
sugar rush
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STYLE | BEAUTY
La Dolce Vita Swimming in Lipari and Sunset in Salina sound like the makings of a heavenly holiday. In sharing his summer style, British model David Gandy discusses wine, travel and the limited edition Light Blue fragrances from Dolce & Gabbana
What memories do the new scent evoke for you? No matter what fragrance from the Light Blue collection it is, it will always take me back to the first campaign that we shot with Mario Testino. It was such a brilliant experience and without that shoot I wouldn’t be where I am today. Every time I smell the fragrance it reminds me of those moments. What are your travel essentials? My MacBook, as I have to do a lot of writing. There’s usually an architecture or interior design magazine in my bag, too. As I travel a lot for work, my skin gets very dry, so I’ve started using the SK-II skincare line and some organic rose oil to keep it moisturised. Have you visited the Aeolian Islands, specifically Salina and Lipari? Yes—the Mediterranean is so beautiful and the Aeolian Islands are exceptional. Salina and Lipari each have their own charm and offer
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different things. Lipari is a nice destination if you prefer a busier atmosphere with beautiful beaches. I would suggest Salina for its famed Malvasia wines. Both places have real soul and capture the essence of summer. Can you tell us about some of your favourite wines? Gavi di Gavi is my favourite white wine and Barolo is one of my favourite reds. My absolutely favourite red wine though is Luigi Bosca, a blend of many different wines from 2005. How would you describe your perfect summer day? One that includes delicious food, even better wine and of course, friends to share it with. Also, a true summer day to me is to take a drive through the beautiful countryside in my classic car. When the weather is beautiful in London, it is simply the best city in the world. A sunset walk on a warm summer’s evening along the Thames is my idea of bliss. Sunset or sunrise? For me, it’s definitely the sunset. This may be the case because I’m not a morning person, though, so I rarely ever see the sun rising. When you’re on holiday, do you prefer to swim in a pool or in the sea? There’s something really special about swimming in the ocean, particularly when the sea is warm and the air is salty. It’s a great way to feel connected to nature.
philippine tatler . august 2015
Text: Kate Weaver-Gibbs
How do you feel about the new Light Blue Sunset in Salina fragrance for women? It’s actually my favourite one; it’s very feminine and warm. I was also surprised by the colour, as normally I would associate it with male fragrances, so I think it’s quite interesting.
HYPER-HYDRATION In the summer heat, it’s all too easy to dry up. Keep yourself hydrated from day to night
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DIOR
What do a jetsetting CEO and a 30-year-old party princess have in common? One likely answer: fatigue characterised by dehydrated skin. For those of us edging towards epidermal burnout, Dior sends Hydra Life to the rescue. The Concentrated Pro-Youth Serum energises the skin deep down, while the Pro-Youth Cream plumps the features at surface level. Best of all, it comes with no rules—just use it whenever you need it.
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LANEIGE
The Water Sleeping Mask helps restore skin to its optimal condition overnight, while natural scents promote deep sleep. Good morning, beautiful.
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AMOREPACIFIC
Moisture Bound Hydration Ampoules supercharge the skin’s ability to generate and retain moisture for daylong hydration.
PRETTY IN PINK Get girly this summer with these delicate floral scents REPETTO EAU FLORALE The Parisian ballet house unveils Act III of its floral fragrance; ambergris and grapefruit add a touch of sensuality to the rose heart note VALENTINO VALENTINA PINK The scent of a rose is truly timeless. Nuances of peony, strawberry, and blackberry bring freshness to the classic fragrance, resulting in a floral, fruity mix VAN CLEEF & ARPELS Rêve Enchanté A stroll through a sun-kissed garden is brought to life with warming notes of water jasmine and peach blossom, while lily of the valley puts a green spring in the step
organic beauty
Sisley’s heart and expertise lie in the concept of phytocosmetology, the integration of the best natural plant ingredients into beauty products. Combining this technology with their deep understanding of how the skin works, Sisley’s products are optimised to deliver the best possible results with regards to skincare solutions. philippine tatler . august 2015
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STYLE | beauty
From the Inside Out
Biologique Recherche recognises that our skin’s health goes deeper than it seems
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innovation and tradition The Ambassade de la Beauté, the brand's flagship beauty institute, is located at the prestigious 32 Avenue des Champs-Elysées; (inset) the new interiors
The Initialisation stage targets the epidermis, the skin’s outer layer and the ultimate barrier which protects the integrity of our bodies. The epidermis receives a customised treatment applied following a precise and rigorous ritual, which begins with a proprioceptive massage and make-up removal using cleansing milk, followed by the application of Lotion P50 to eliminate impurities, and ending with a mask treatment to condition and stimulate the skin. The Treatment stage starts with the Remodelling Face product, which uses four currents to improve the skin’s volume and radiance. Afterwards, a customised cocktail of Quintessential Serums is prepared especially for your skin by the therapist. This stage concludes with creams and finishing serums that are applied to prolong and optimise the treatment. These products recondition and help activate the regenerative properties of the epidermis, as well as those of the skin’s deeper structures. The unique benefits of these cutting-edge, customised skin care treatments are both instant and lasting.
pamper yourself
Biologique Recherche is now in the Philippines, exclusively available at Chi Spa at Edsa Shangri-La
philippine tatler . august 2015
Words: cristina morales
e sometimes forget that our skin is an organ interconnected with all the other vital body functions. Biologique Recherche centres its treatments around this fact, which is why their methodology has a reputation for astounding effectiveness based on a clinical approach to beauty. Authenticity and harmony are the spirit and essence of Biologique Recherche skin care products. They boast a high concentration (over 20 per cent in most products) of botanical, marine, and biological extracts, with no artificial fragrances to preserve the integrity of the formulas and to avoid allergic reactions. The cold-made formulations preserve the original structure of active ingredients, which are of the highest quality available. The Biologique Methodology is based on three fundamental stages: the Assessment Stage, the Initialisation Stage, and the Treatment Stage. The Assessment stage uses a specific physiological, behavioural, and tactile approach to assess each person’s skin. This is to ensure that your beauty treatment is tailored to your skin’s current condition.
SensoWashÂŽ Slim
Rimless
JUST ADD YOU.
ME by Starck. Clear lines, iconic shapes, pure aesthetics, sustainable and long-lasting. Perfect and yet distinctly individual design. Because it‘s all about your personality. Duravit Asia Limited (Singapore Branch), 63 Tras street Singapore 079002, Phone +65 6238 6353, Fax + 65 6238 6359, info@sg.duravit.com; Kuysen Enterprises, Inc., www.kuysen.com, 236 E. Rodriguez Sr. Avenue, Brgy. Don Manuel, near corner D. Tuazon St., Quezon City, Telephone: (+632)740-7509, Email: info@kuysen.com, Kuysen Showroom, Ground & Mezzanine Floor, Units 1, 2 & 6, The Eton Residences, Greenbelt, Legaspi Street, Legaspi Village, Makati City. Telephone: (+632)955-1250, Email: kei.eton@kuysen.com, MC Home Builders Depot, Unit FS-010B, Fort Bonifacio Global City, Taguig, Telephone: (+632)815-4818, 815-6057, Email: kei.mcfort@kuysen.com, CW Home Depot - Balintawak, Unit 34, #1240 EDSA Balintawak, Brgy. Apolonio Samson, QuezonCity Telephone: (+632)921-3678, Email: kei.balintawak@kuysen.com, More at www.duravit.com and www.duravit.ME
STYLE | beauty
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philippine tatler . august 2015
Water Baby Dual-use cosmetics are becoming increasingly popular, offering women creative control over their look and streamlining their beauty routine. Kate Weaver-Gibbs dives into the world of wet and dry make-up
Two-Faced Adding water to specialised compacts such as NARS All Day Luminous Powder Foundation or Urban Decay Naked Skin Ultra Definition Powder alters the moisture content, enabling personalised coverage and a smooth finish regardless of skin type. “It’s more the effect you would like to create that determines whether the foundation should be used wet or dry,” says Jess Yung, national make-up artist at Urban Decay. When used wet, coverage is lighter, providing a perfected, natural skin appearance, while dry delivers greater coverage with a demi-matte finish to facilitate fuss-free touch-ups around the clock.
from wet to dry 1 For wet use, dampen the cushion side of a foundation sponge to optimise the colour. 2 Sweep the sponge over the foundation and apply evenly, building up to your desired coverage level. 3 Use the dry velvet flocking on the reverse to buff, blend or perform touch-ups later in the day.
Contrary to conventional wisdom, Iris Lau, training manager at Helena Rubinstein, recommends users with oilier skin should use foundation wet, as it is long-lasting. They should then apply dry foundation only to the T-zone or cheek side to reduce shine when doing retouches. “Gently tap on the skin to create a lighter, more matte finishing,” says Yung.
Today’s dual-use products are formulated to deliver adaptable on-trend results
image: lambada/Vetta via Getty Images
omen today are time-poor and want their products to work harder. Make-up they can use wet or dry is a way of getting more,” says Charlotte Tilbury, make-up artist to the stars. Enter dual-use cosmetics—a single product that becomes multifunctional, delivering strikingly different results when used wet or dry. Brands such as Estée Lauder are using technological advances to transform the way we use the old faithfuls: blushers that offer a delicate wash of colour or a bold, popping cheek, and powder foundations that deliver liquid-like coverage with the sweep of a damp sponge. Or light eyeshadows such as Clarins Eye Quartet Mineral Palette in Skin Tone that become dark eyeliners when wet. While the wet-dry movement may have been inspired by insider tricks—“I used to mix balm with powder eyeshadow to create the perfect wet look I wanted,” says Tilbury—it’s no longer a case of taking a wet brush to your make-up bag and unleashing Monet-style creativity. Today’s dual-use products are specifically formulated to deliver adaptable ontrend results that allow you to simplify your choice at the cosmetic counter and streamline your make-up bag.
philippine tatler . august 2015
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STYLE | beauty
Seeing Double “Remember, the most flattering and modern way to wear colour is on one part of your face,” says Tong. For the hydra-cautious, the eyes are a great place to play with wet and dry techniques. “A wet-dry product is much more versatile, allowing an effortless day-to-evening transformation,” says Fabian Lui, make-up director at BareMinerals. “When used dry, colours are softer and more translucent, with a sheer to medium intensity. When used wet, shimmer shades create an opaque wash of high sheen known as ‘foiling’—a lustrous, lightreflective glow that lasts for hours.” Lui advises using eyeshadow dry for a natural glow during the day, and wet for a dramatic, high shimmer at night or for a more formal occasion. Avoid using lighter shades wet to highlight the browbone, as the shimmer will be too intense. Wet-foiling technique 1 Sprinkle a small amount of colour into a lid or use the back of your hand as a palette. 2 Use a damp eyeshadow brush to apply the eye colour. 3 Pat or press for more opacity. Sweep across the lid for more transparency.
Blushing Beauty Swirling a wet blush on to your cheek can sometimes seem more circus-chic than cosmetics connoisseur, but the result is surprisingly sophisticated. “Wet use creates a semi-matte effect, just like a second skin. It can let the contour seem flawless, with no visible line between the highlighted and shading area,” says Priscilla Yu, lead make-up artist at NARS. “We then use it dry to pop the cheek colour, as the dry pigments impart a natural glow that warms the complexion.” To create the perfect canvas, Yu recommends using an oil-free moisturiser and primer before applying a blush, such as Burberry Lip and Cheek Bloom or Laneige K-Secret Cushion Tint. blending technique 1 Dampen the brush with water, gently squeezing the bristles to remove any excess moisture. 2 Blend blush onto the cheekbones towards the temples for a contoured effect. 3 Apply a dry pop of colour to the cheekbones and blend in a circular motion, towards and along the hairline.
Toolkit 1 For dry, use an eyeshadow brush with small, fluffy bristles. 2 For wet, spray some water on your concealer brush before taking up product. 3 As an eyeliner, spray a small amount of water on an ultra-fine eyeliner brush. perfect palettes a Estée Lauder Pure Color Envy Sculpting Eyeshadow 5-Color Palette b Tom Ford Nude Dip Eyeshadow Palette c Charlotte Tilbury Eyeshadow Palette d Chanel Small Contour Brushes b
d
a c
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STYLE | BEAUTY
Smoky Stretch mascara. PHP1,650 from Make
Up Forever
Nail Polish in Cherry Red. PHP900 from Bobbi Brown
photo courtesy of estÉe lauder
Nude Tan Tie Dye Blush in Coral Sunset PHP3,550 from Dior
Superslick Liquid Eyeliner in Pure Show bright yellowgold pearl. PHP1,230 from MAC
Smouldering Beauty Create a glamorous evening look with deep dark shades, a little bit of glitter, and a whole lot of drama Smoothing Eyeliner Pencil. PHP1,100 from Shiseido
Premium Diamond Age Repair Cream. PHP40,400 from Areum
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Phyto 4 Ombres The Mystery Palette. PHP5,150 from Sisley
Pure Colour Envy lipstick in decadent. PHP1,700 from Estée
Lauder
fiercely fabulous
Smokey eye make-up is as essential to a glitzy party as a little black dress, so dress up your eyes with showstopping, intense shadows; thick, black liner; and double coats of dark mascara. Don’t forget to add a dose of sparkle for good measure. Then, match your sultry eyes with welldefined, dewy cheekbones. If you’re not afraid to go all-out ferocious, fiery red lips is the right way to go; but nude lips work just as well with your already piercing peepers.
philippine tatler . june 2015
Vernis in Love in Rose Plumetti by LANCÔME
Le Vernis in Croisière Sensation by Givenchy
Le Vernis Nail Colour in Ballerina by Chanel
Nail Polish in Saltwater Happy by Essie
IMAGE: DENNIS PEDERSEN
Nail Polish in Miley by Zoya
sugar rush This summer’s hottest nail shades are ice-cool—we love the mouth-watering hues from pistachio green to strawberry pink
eye of the tiger The intricate Girard-Perregaux Cat’s Eye anniversary watch is a shimmering marvel to behold
style
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Combining unparalleled style and impeccable technique, Breguet continues to impress watch aficionados
Bring a spot of sunshine to evening shindigs with punchy sapphires, bright citrines, and coloured diamonds
Discover the beauty of sapphire and find out why fine jewellery house G端belin chose it as the stone of the year
the watch master
hong kong tatler . month year
HELLO, YELLOW!
true blue
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STYLE | WATCHES
IN FULL BLOOM (From left) Two views of the Cat’s Eye Anniversary watch by Girard-Perregaux; Harry Winston Premier Lace; Roger Dubuis Excalibur Creative Skeleton Brocéliande
Natural Selection
Modern leaf and floral dials set a delicate trend for women’s timepieces reativity thrives in the latest watches for women as dials reveal nature-inspired motifs with a twist. Celebrating 10 years of the Cat’s Eye watch, Girard-Perregaux takes the model’s distinct case shape and combines it with a dial of diamond petals—a firework of rays extending from the 9 o’clock position, each stone set in a specific direction to provide a shimmering effect. The black version features an onyx dial with 73 brilliant-cut diamonds, while the opaline version has a grey mother-ofpearl dial with pink sapphires. The Cat’s Eye Anniversary watch comes with an automatic Girard-Perregaux movement with 46 hours of reserve power. Among the watchmakers that focused on nature-inspired women’s novelties at Baselworld this year was Harry Winston. The Premier Lace is one of the three exquisite timepieces that make up the brand’s The Premier Collection, with a dial in mother-ofpearl forming an intricate floral lace motif, which measures a mere 0.15mm thick and is
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placed against a dark-coloured dial. The Premier Lace comes with a black sunburst dial with a white mother-of-pearl lace for sharp contrast. Further enriching the watch are the 63 brilliant-cut diamonds that line the bezel and arches of the 31mm white or rose gold case. Making its debut at this year’s SIHH, the Excalibur Creative Skeleton Brocéliande by Roger Dubuis is a timepiece hailing from its King Arthur-inspired Excalibur line, which showcases the mythical Brocéliande forest, said to be home to Merlin’s tomb. With this watch, the craftsmen at Roger Dubuis skeletonised the famously robust Excalibur model, introducing ivy leaves and vines using gemstones throughout the dial and the movement. The bezel of this 42mm red gold case is set with 60 brilliant-cut diamonds, with 30 more brilliant-cut diamonds on its lugs. At the heart of this watch is the RD505SQ flying tourbillon movement, which has been beautifully finished and guarantees an impressive 60 hours of power reserve. philippine tatler . august 2015
watchmaker
Carole Forestier-Kasapi background Born in France into a watchmaking family, Carole Forestier-Kasapi started her career in watchmaking at Conseilray after six years at the École d’Horlogerie at La Chaux-de-Fonds in Switzerland. She spent two years as a movement builder, primarily in charge of the development of Zenith’s Elite calibre. ForestierKasapi then joined Renaud & Papi, a well-known speciality movement supplier owned by Audemars Piguet, where she headed up the technical bureau for more than four years. It was in 1999 that she joined Cartier, on the team responsible for the development of the company’s high-watchmaking movements. In 2005, Forestier-Kasapi stepped up as the brand’s director of movement creation. DESIGN ACHIEVEMENTS Under Forestier-Kasapi’s supervision, Cartier’s fine watchmaking division has
gilty pleasures
launched more than 30 new movements and 50 references since it was established in 2008. In an industry dominated by men, Forestier-Kasapi has proven to be in a class of her own and is now considered a watchmaking luminary by her peers. One of the industry’s most creative modern inventors, her team is responsible for the brand’s concept watches—the ID One and the ID Two, which have pushed the boundaries of timekeeping with functions and movements previously unseen.
prized possession
creative spaces (From top) The Cartier manufacture in La Chaux-deFonds; Symbols for movement creation at Cartier
The 2015 French Open singles women’s champion, Serena Williams, is Audemars Piguet’s latest brand ambassador, choosing to wear a Royal Oak Offshore watch in pink gold on and off the court. philippine tatler . august 2015
Golden watches never go out of style
Montblanc Bohème Perpetual Calendar
Omega Constellation Pluma
Chopard Happy Sport
Clé de Cartier
Vacheron Constantin Harmony
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STYLE | watches
the LONG HAUL Guests enjoy dinner at the launch of Audemars Piguet’s Royal Oak Concept Laptimer Michael Schumacher in Switzerland
Winning Formula The partnership between Audemars Piguet and Michael Schumacher has produced an extraordinary mechanical chronograph. Sean Li visits Switzerland to discover more otor racing is a sport of precision and accuracy, where timing means everything. Races can be won by infinitesimal margins—and no matter how small the margin, the win is a team effort. Few racing drivers have understood and mastered all aspects of their craft as well as Michael Schumacher. The statistics speak for themselves: seven Formula 1 World Championships from 91 race wins out of 308 races, with 1,566 points scored in an F1 career spanning two decades. There have arguably been more naturally gifted drivers, but few dominated the sport for so long—and who understood the importance of the team effort
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as well as he did. Stories abound of the German driver working with his engineers long into the night, preparing for the race. Given his meticulous nature, Schumacher has always chosen his associations carefully, so there were very high expectations in 2010 when he partnered with Audemars Piguet, a familiar sight in the F1 paddock after collaborations with a handful of drivers over the years. It wasn’t until 2012 that we saw the first watches the Swiss brand designed with Schumacher, in a somewhat familiar pattern of limited editions in titanium, rose gold and platinum. At the time of their release, the watchmaker and Schumacher were already hard at work on another timepiece, one that would take the collaborative element further than any previous association. Today, that project is finally unveiled with the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Concept Laptimer Michael Schumacher. It’s the result of a challenge Michael Schumacher issued to the brand’s watchmakers—to produce a mechanical watch capable of precisely timing consecutive laps during a race. It may sound like a simple request, but the feat had never been accomplished in the watchmaking world. The difficulty of the task didn’t stop Audemars Piguet’s technical skunkworks at philippine tatler . august 2015
ON THE SIDE
The watch’s pusher is engraved with Schumacher’s initials and the stars represent the number of F1 World Championships he has won
Renaud & Papi (APRP) from taking on the project. Schumacher made regular visits over the next few years to monitor progress and to ensure no compromises were allowed. Unfortunately, a few weeks after visiting the manufacture in September 2013, Schumacher suffered severe brain damage in an off-piste skiing accident. While he is now at home in Switzerland, the family is guarded about his condition. His wife, Corrina, and manager, Sabine Kehm, aware of the importance of this watch to Schumacher, gave their wholehearted support for the launching of the Laptimer, which took place at Corrina’s ranch. It was there that I discovered the mechanical marvel that embodies Schumacher’s ideas. You’ll see three pushers around the watch’s forged carbon case, and it’s the pusher at 9 o’clock that’s the key to the Laptimer’s innovation. You start and stop the chronograph with the usual pusher at 2 o’clock, and the pusher at 4 o’clock functions as a flyback or a reset. The pusher at 9 o’clock is used whenever a lap time is required. By activating the laptimer, a second chronograph hand, which had until now been synchronised with the first, reverts to zero and starts timing the new lap while the first chronograph hand stops. You can then record the time for the previous lap philippine tatler . august 2015
while the Laptimer continues timing the race uninterrupted. The next time the car crosses the line, press the 9 o’clock pusher again and the chronograph hands switch places, recording the new lap time without interruption. Great attention was paid by the APRP developers to the watch’s ergonomics and that the movement fit within the 44mm diameter of the Royal Oak Concept case. They also focused on the ergonomic feel of the chronograph and its pushers to minimise the slight lag present in most mechanical chronographs on activation due to the resistance of the pushers—also the result of input from Schumacher. Only 221 examples of the Royal Oak Concept Laptimer Michael Schumacher will be produced—it’s a reference to the number of races in which Schumacher scored points during his F1 career. The watch is a tremendous tribute to the career of a man who redefined his sport. Of course, the launch was tinged with a certain sadness that Schumacher could not be there to see for himself the results of the team effort that brought his idea to fruition. We can only hope his fighting spirit will continue to propel him along the road to recovery.
racing hero From left: Michael Schumacher has been a brand ambassador for the watchmaker since 2010; the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Concept Laptimer Michael Schumacher precisely times consecutive laps during a race
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The Watch Master
Swiss luxury watchmaker Breguet continues to impress watch aficionados with their latest timepieces nown for its mastery in combining unparalleled style and impeccable technique, Breguet remains one of the leading innovators in the world of watches. Founded in 1775 by Abraham Louis Breguet, it is one of the oldest surviving watch-making companies in the world today. The company has made its mark in the watch industry by contributing some of the most useful and groundbreaking innovations like the shock protection system known as the pare-chute, the raised terminal curve (overcoil) of the balance-spring, and the tourbillon, a construct by which a constant rotation cancels out the effects of earthly gravity in a watch.
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During the recent Baselworld Watch and Jewellery Show, Breguet once again proved why, despite all the newcomers in the industry, it is able to retain its most loyal clients while attracting new ones. One of the most stunning pieces that was presented this year was the Reve de Plume Haute Joaillere in white gold. The collection was inspired by one of Breguet’s most distinguished clients, Queen Marie Antoinette of France. The Queen was said to have often written letters to her husband, King Louis XVI, as well as to her family in Austria. The piece features a sculpture of a feather which starts at the spherical gem-set attachment at 6 o’clock. It then goes all the way down the left side of the bezel. Different sizes of diamonds were used in order to create the most philippine tatler . august 2015
watches | STYLE
The Reve de Plume Haute Joaillere watch was inspired by Queen Marie Antionette of France and her letters to her husband Louis XVI and her family
Magnificently Ornate (Clockwise from top) master craftsman working on the engine-turn guilloché 18c gold watch dial; Marc Hayek, the president and CEO of Montres Breguet SA; Reve de Plume Haute Joaillere in white gold; (opposite) Breguet at Baselworld
accurate depiction of a real feather. The dial is made of mother-of-pearl and features a Breguet medallion inset at 12 o’clock. Finishing off this luxurious watch is a satin strap which has a folding clasp that is set with 26 brilliant-cut diamonds. This watch also comes in rose gold. Another equally ornate piece that was showcased was Reine de Naples Haute Joaillerie 8909. This collection took its inspiration from an early bracelet watch that was created for Napoleon Bonaparte’s sister, Caroline Murat, queen of Naples. The 8909 model was originally made in 18-carat white gold. For this year, Breguet artisans created a version in 18-carat rose gold. The bezel and case band is set with 86 baguette diamonds. The dial is silvered 18-carat gold; its engine is turned and paved with 67 brilliant-cut diamonds and Tahitian mother-of-pearl. The watch has a self-winding movement, which is numbered and signed by Breguet. The newest addition to the Reine de Naples collection is the Princesse mini which philippine tatler . august 2015
measures 32.7 x 2.3 mm. This watch was specifically designed for those with a slender wrist. The 9807 model comes in a steel case. Its dial is ingrained with natural white mother-of-pearl and features an off-centre chapter ring at 6 o’clock with Roman numerals in natural white motherof-pearl. It has a self-winding movement and is finished off with a leather strap. The 9808 model, on the other hand, has an 18-carat rose gold case. The crown is set with a briolette diamond while the attachment is set with 16 brilliant-cut diamonds. It also features a self-winding movement and is finished off with a pearly brown alligator strap. A Nod To Its Past While innovation is key in any industry, looking back and taking inspiration from one’s past is essential as well. Without a
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STYLE | watches
royalty inspired
The latest watch from the Reine de Naples collection, the Princesse Mini 9807
the newest models Reine de Naples Haute Joaillerie 8909 in Rose Gold; Breguet watches on display during the recent Baselworld; Tradition 7077 watch
doubt this is most evident in Breguet’s Tradition collection. First launched in 2005, the collection marks its 10th anniversary this year. This collection is a tribute to Breguet’s legendary “subscription” watches, which was sold in 1789. One of the most impressive items in the Tradition’s collection is the Répétition Minutes Tourbillon 7087. Watchmakers and engineers at Breguet pulled out all the stops in making this unique watch as the piece was designed around the sound it produces. To create this watch, approximately a hundred thousand sounds were synthesised through the use of simulations. These sounds were then classified into categories according to a psychoacoustic criteria. After listening and evaluating the sounds, two desired notes were chosen with the aim of revolutionising sound perception by modern harmonies and tuning. The timepiece was then constructed to be able to reproduce the selected sound mechanically. The end result is a watch that is exceptionally pure in sound and original tone. There is the option to choose between an 18-carat white gold or 18-carat rose gold case.
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Also part of the Tradition collection is a new model of the Chronographe 7077 that was presented this year. This model is fitted with two independent trains. The first train is for the hours and minutes while the second train is for the chronograph. Both trains can be seen on the baseplates. The patented parechute anti-shock device and the chronograph bring to mind the historical roots of this collection. This watch, which is noted for its symmetry, features a leather strap. It is also water resistant.
The new model of the Tradition Chronographe 7077 is noted for its symmetry in appearance philippine tatler . august 2015
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STYLE | JEWELLERY
Hello, Yellow!
Bring a spot of sunshine to those evening shindigs with punchy sapphires, citrines and fancy-coloured diamonds et into the swing of ball season with jewels in luminous, cheerful yellow. Chaumet has created a breathtaking set with large, yellow cushion-cut Ceylon sapphires as the focal point. Different forms of water were the inspiration for Chaumet’s Lumières d’Eau high jewellery collection—Parure 11 takes its sunny disposition from sun-lit lakes. The long necklace in yellow gold has more than 40 carats of yellow sapphires, beads and motifs of topaz, golden cultured pearls and one 30.29-carat cushion-cut Ceylon sapphire. Time is literally golden with the matching secret watch, set with 570 yellow sapphires and a 13.45-carat Ceylon sapphire at the centre, which lifts to reveal the hours and minutes. Also inspired by nature, Graff has an extensive range of jewellery in the form of butterflies. The brand’s founder, Laurence Graff, loves the concept of the metamorphosis of caterpillars into colourful and delicate winged creatures. The Pavé Butterfly collection includes playful drop earrings with three butterflies on each side, set in white and yellow diamonds. Every year, in time for the Cannes Film Festival, Chopard creates high jewellery pieces that make up its Red Carpet collection. For 2015, the brand revealed 68 new models, one for each year of the festival. One of the most striking showcases a fancy vivid yellow radiant-cut diamond weighing 30 carats. The stone is set on a white gold ring, which is enveloped in more diamonds. Meanwhile, Dior Joaillerie brings the sunshine with the Granville Soleil collection. In one brilliant example, golden opals, tourmalines and diamonds combine to create a flirty pair of earrings.
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Citrus Charms (Clockwise from top) Lumières d’Eau Parure No 11 necklace by Chaumet; Pavé Butterfly earrings by Graff; Granville Soleil earrings by Dior Joaillerie; Lumières d’Eau Parure No 11 secret watch by Chaumet; Yellow diamond ring by Chopard
philippine tatler . august 2015
JEWELLERY DESIGNER
James de Givenchy BACKGROUND The nephew of renowned fashion designer Hubert de Givenchy, French-born James de Givenchy grew up in the fashion world. He became enamoured with gems when he joined Christie’s jewellery department, after studying graphic design at New York City’s Fashion Institute of Technology. He then became head of Christie’s jewellery arm for the US west coast and later served as vice-president of jewellery brand Verdura. DESIGN SIGNATURE De Givenchy opened his New York salon in 1996, initially working with private clients on bespoke pieces. He is known as a connoisseur of gems, with sculptural, whimsical works heralded for their colour and composition. De Givenchy likens his work to architecture, and feels his role as a designer is to find pieces that fit together to solve a puzzle.
COLOUR PLAY (From top) James de Givenchy at his Madison Avenue salon; Taffin’s geometric cocktail rings
ARTISTIC INFLUENCES Playing with ceramic to showcase fine metals and precious gems, De Givenchy’s work has been compared to famous designers such as Suzanne Belperron and Raymond Templier. All of De Givenchy’s jewellery is produced in the US. He embosses each piece with the French-gifted Statue of Liberty as a nod to the bridge between his French heritage and his US home.
MARCHING BANDs One, two, three, four: stack and flaunt these playful rings
Chanel Coco Crush
the ONE AND ONLY
image: david fisher/rex (emily blunt)
Emily Blunt wears this one-of-a-kind pair of earrings by Anna Hu at a recent gala for the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Costume Institute in New York. The Orchid earrings feature two royal blue sapphires, Paraiba tourmalines and rose-cut diamonds set in white gold. philippine tatler . august 2015
Damiani Baci
Dinh Van Pois Moi
Pomellato Milano
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STYLE | JEWELLERY
True Blue Sapphires rule in the realms of royalty and romance. Gübelin Academy’s Helen Molesworth goes in search of the best gems
FAN FLAIR Sapphire and diamond necklace by Chow Tai Fook
he sapphire is seeing a renaissance. The beautiful gem of the heavens— blue brother to the red ruby and a multitude of fancy-coloured siblings— is now more popular than ever. Revered by royalty and sought after for centuries, this noble, regal and romantic gem has inspired fine jewellery houses such as Gübelin, which chose it as stone of the year and launched a fine jewellery collection designed around it. With a broad range of hues, sizes and prices, sapphires offer a wealth of choice unrivalled by most other gems. The country in which the gemstone was formed can add an extra dimension to market values and personal choices. Sapphires are found in seemingly unlikely locations all over the
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world, from the Himalayas to the islands of Africa, and from national parks in the US to the Australian outback. The multitude of origins provides a sea of blue choice, but a few countries are uppermost in the psyche of the sapphire collector.
ANCIENT ASIA
The most exclusive and elusive of all are sapphires from Kashmir. They come from a tiny remote locality, where they were discovered after a landslide in the 1880s. All but mined out, Kashmir sapphires are a rare—and expensive—investment. Their soft, velvety mid-blue is the ideal by which all other sapphires are judged. Asia is also the source of the most ancient sapphires, thanks to the alluring island of Sri Lanka—the Serendib or Ceylon of old. The island’s magical mines are still producing philippine tatler . august 2015
When buying a gem, personal preference is important, but you should know what you’re buying. If you don’t know, find out REPORT BACK
today. They’re famed for lighter colours— as well as, unusually, the dark engagement ring worn by both Diana Spencer and Kate Middleton—and sapphires of all other colours. Sri Lanka has been the source of famously large stones, sometimes even in the hundreds of carats. Burma, famous for its rubies, is also celebrated for its sapphires, the best specimens being of a rich royal blue, the epitome of the perfect deeper sapphire blue.
NEW DISCOVERIES
Africa joined the ranks of sapphire producers more recently, with deposits discovered in the 20th and 21st centuries. Countries such as Kenya and Tanzania became important suppliers, but the beautiful and diverse Indian Ocean island of Madagascar has stolen the gemstone show in the past 30 years, with high-quality deposits of sapphires discovered all over the country. In the 19th century, quite by chance, sapphires were discovered in the US and Australia. In both instances, the sapphire strikes followed gold rushes. Today, Australia can boast of being the biggest sapphire producer in the world by volume, although its stones can rarely match the colour and quality of Kashmir’s sapphires.
While it should never be the main measure of value, origin often affects price. When buying a gem, personal preference is important, but you should know what you’re buying. If you don’t know, find out. Important gems should come with a report from a trusted gemmological laboratory indicating country of origin. Although it is not always possible to ascertain origin—determination of origin is a complex science—such objective advice can be as invaluable as the gem itself.
Cool HUES (From top) 5.91-carat Burmese sapphire earrings; multi-tier necklace with Madagascan sapphires and diamonds; 10.7-carat Kashmiri sapphire and diamond ring, all by Gübelin; Sapphire beads threaded into tassels for use in a high-jewellery necklace by Graff
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features Page
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Best of the Best
The year’s most innovative and jaw-dropping designs take centre stage in this visual feast Page
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Art Provocateur
The highest-selling Filipino artist of all time, Ronald Ventura shares his thoughts on the creative process and art Page
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Base Camp Prada
Designed by Rem Koolhaas, Milan’s Fondazione Prada presents culture as an ever-evolving intellectual pursuit
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a passion for design Jeff Leatham, the artistic director of the Four Seasons Hotel George V, has won the distinction of Best Hotel Florist and has been named as the best hotel florist in Europe for three consecutive years hong kong tatler . month year
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Best of theBest For our first design issue, Philippine Tatler brings you some of this year’s design standouts Words MJ JOSE
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It’s in the Bag As someone whose artistic vision has been immortalised on the pages of Vogue, Bea Valdes continues to make a steady impression on the international fashion stage with each beautiful piece she creates. A designer who understands what women want, Valdes taps into the core of each individual female and channels that spirit into her creations. Her bags and necklaces all boast vivid detail and well-thought-out stories. She steps up her game with the Cyclops clutch, a whimsical piece decked in bright colours and varying textures, and, appropriate to its name, accented with large eyes. Despite having a steady flow of intricate pieces at the ready, Valdes proves that she has what it takes to go all out and deliver beyond what is expected of her, design-wise. philippine tatler . august 2015
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Warped Artistry
These days, it is no longer uncommon to have in your home a design piece so artfully strange that one is often unsure if one can actually make use of it. Rising star Sebastian Brajkovic’s artistic vision transcends beyond the intricate swirls and sloping edges of his hand-crafted wood-based designs— it comes with the determination to create a real-life interpretation of shifts in time and space. This eye-catching piece from his first solo exhibition, “Vanishing Point,” is aptly named Conversation Piece. The sculptural creation is composed of three seats supported by a wavy backrest bearing Brajkovic’s trademark swirl design. Its appearance alone elicits a tempting invitation to sit.
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Jungle Fever Iùigo Elizalde’s new collection of meticulously hand-knotted rugs brings the mystique of the tropical jungle into the modern-day home. Inspired by the designer’s photos of rainforest canopies and images of Philippine cobras, this selection of hypnotic snakeskin prints and dense illustrations of foliage reflects a dark, moody design scheme. All rugs are made with utmost attention to detail using high-quality materials such as Tibetan highland wool, bamboo fibre, and Chinese silk, and are available for purchase in the Philippines through local retailer W17. Photographed with the designer are the King and Bungarus snakeskin rugs.
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Private Eye
IMAGE: SAM TINSON
In celebration of 70 successful years in the fashion industry, menswear couture house Brioni upped the ante for commemorative pieces with the release of the Gold Edition 70, a highly exclusive limited edition collection of 70 numbered sunglasses. These aviator-shaped, handassembled sunglasses boast 18 carat white gold frames, horned temples, and polarised non-glare platinum lenses with a slight mirrored effect. To add to the pomp, each pair was sold in durable leather cases and packaged in a handcrafted walnut box. The fine gentlemen lucky enough to have snagged a pair from this collection must now be happily channelling their inner 007.
Green with Envy Ian Fleming once said that diamonds were forever, but Dorothy Paley must have begged to disagree. The socialite brought a collection of Colombian emeralds to her friend, Duke Fulco di Verdura, to have a custom day-to-night neckpiece made. Her one condition? “Absolutely no diamonds.” This unusual request had proven to be the makings of a good idea; Paley’s one-of-a-kind accessory, fondly dubbed the Emerald and Gold Scarf Necklace, must have been quite the sight. This iconic piece is to be remade as a highlight of Verdura’s 75th Anniversary Collection. The reissued necklace will sport 183 oval cabochon Russian emeralds on 18 carat yellow gold mounting and is to weigh 568.18 carats.
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Solo Flight
Decades back, today’s innovations were just myths. No one believed in the ability to fly until science proved it possible by inventing helicopters and aeroplanes. The Martin Aircraft Company is looking to be a leading contributor in the field of modern-day aviation by commercially releasing the final iteration of their flagship product: the jetpack. After 35 years of product testing and development, an updated prototype that is able to fly up to 30 minutes at 74 kilometres per hour was showcased at the Paris Airshow. The carbon fibre-and-aluminium jetpack uses petrol-fuelled engines to power up the two fans intended to lift up to 120kgs. A parachute for safety purposes is also included in the pack. The company intends to make the jetpack available to the emergency service sector in the latter portion of 2016.
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Urban Seafarer Turning Tables
It is interesting to note that Heesen’s massive 51-metre work of art is Musicinternationally is universally acclaimed recognisedarchitect as an aural form, but Wilson Benesch Erickartvan Egeraat’s first foray into yacht renders it tangible through state-of-the-art turntables. The brand’s commitment design. This steel-and-aluminium beauty features an upper deck that doubles to sleek andand optimum performance evident thehot make the latest as adesigns recreation dining area, a sundeckis with gyminand tub of facilities, additions to the master ever-popular Analogue Theand new Circle 25 Turntable a full-beam suite with a stoneCollection. steam shower, spacious guest and the ACT 25 Tonearm are simultaneously rigid and lightweight due cabins. Its sophisticated interiors are done in a striking motif of stark to blacks the use staplewhites; materials fibre andpatterned homopolymer. This 25th andofbright key such pointsasofcarbon interest are the black marble anniversary commemorative release also features a special suspension design walls with backlit white onyx inlay and the rotating white leather seating that makes it easy for the eager listener to set up and use. An option of either a area in the upper deck lounge. Designed to sail the high seas in style, luxury blacksuperyacht or white finish is also available. MySky is a fine achievement in the realm of naval design. philippine tatler . august 2015
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Into the Groove
Taking off from the success of the Yeezy 750 Boost, his first shoe collaboration with Adidas, rapperfashion designer Kanye West released its successor, the Yeezy 350 Boost, in the latter half of June 2015. This limited edition sneaker features a low-top design with an unlined primeknit-and-suede upper in black and grey, cord-like laces, and a ridged sole in white. Sneaker enthusiasts flocked to Adidas stores in thousands, eager to obtain a pair of the much-hyped sneakers. All pairs sold out in the US, Canada, and Europe in under an hour.
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Pride of Place
photo by ava pessina
A semblance of magic often takes place whenever culture plays a leading role in the evolution of a design. Maricris Floirendo-Brias, creative director of The Tadeco Livelihood and Training Centre (TLTC), has long believed that extraordinary products can emerge from simple raw materials. The abaca fibre used for majority of their products is handwoven to produce t’nalak fabric using centuries-old indigenous techniques. TLTC provides additional livelihood to the wives of the plantation workers by teaching them various skills such as sewing, crafting, and paper making. Their wired planters, hanging lamps, and woven cushions have crossed Philippine waters to make waves in areas such as Milan and Paris.
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Bronze Age Not every successful person hits the nail on the head on his very first try. Selftaught Industria designer Jude Tiotuico found his identity further in his career when he began to work with metal. Capitalising wisely on the textured and malleable properties of his chosen raw material, Tiotuico then went on to create modern designs with eye-catching geometric patterns. His signature design philosophy clearly translates into the make of the Infisso tables; flat bars with a polished copper finish are bent with precision to form a clever mosaic of varying shapes.
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Avant-garde Wonderland Tucked away from the sights and sounds of busy Phuket, Keemala offers its guests an enchanting break from the real world. Architect Sermsuk Kitcharoenwong and interior designer Pisit Aongskultong came up with the resort’s unique design by integrating its lush natural surroundings with the fictitious stories of four nomadic tribes that united to form a village. To add to the ethnic appeal, most furnishings and decorative pieces were made by hand or sourced from neighbouring communities. A great respect for nature is evident in how the design scheme integrates with its environment; on every possible occasion, all natural formations were to remain intact instead of being destroyed to accommodate man-made structures. Set to open to the public later in the year, Keemala is already making waves with promises of excellent wellness programmes, outdoor activities and gastronomic delights. With all this in store,there’s no time like the present to start saving for your dream Phuket getaway. philippine tatler . august 2015
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Flower King Floral design sensation Jeff Leatham found his true calling when he signed on to assist a floral designer after departing from the catwalk. Famous for adorning the lobbies and hallways of the Four Seasons Hotel George V with thousands of bold, colourful flowers, Leatham continues to outdo himself as he brings more of his designs to life through over-the-top floral installations. The designer also incorporates his floral motifs into sculptural pieces, such as the Orchidee chandelier for Swarovski’s 2004 Crystal Collection, the Daum Arum Vase, and his commemorative crystal and Vanda Orchid ears for Mickey Mouse’s 80th birthday.
it takes
dream team Interior designer Budji Layug and Royal Pineda have been working together for 13 years
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The partnership of Budji Layug and Royal Pineda is set on transforming the cityscape for the better, writes Cristina Morales Photography shaira luna
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what goes around Layug and Pineda at the conveyor belts in NAIA’s newly renovated Terminal 1
uch has been said and written about bayanihan. This spirit of teamwork and cooperation has long been an integral part of the Filipino nature—the backbone upon which Philippine society was constructed. Chronicles of Filipino men and women banding together to build up their community have lingered and remained in our collective consciousness. But is this Filipino bayanihan spirit still a reality? In a fragmented society, where competition (more often than not) triumphs over collaboration, does bayanihan still apply? Designer Budji Layug and architect Royal Pineda answer with a resounding “yes!” to these questions. Known for their total approach to architecture and design, the duo has contributed so much to the Filipino aesthetic that they were approached by the National Competitiveness Council (headed by Guillermo “Bill” Luz) and government secretaries in 2011 to lend their expertise to the nation. The overarching goal was to rebrand the country, to bring out its strengths and magnify them. “The Philippines’ greatest asset is actually its people and their hospitality,” Pineda explains. “So we focused on tourism. But if you’re planning to invite people to a party in your house, you must fix your house, or at the very least, your living room. For a long time, however, we did not even have the budget to fix the living room, not even the gate!” The “gate” he refers to is NAIA’s (Ninoy Aquino International Airport) Terminal 1. When the terminal was built in 1981, no one could have predicted the degree of its downward trajectory. Designed by Leandro Locsin, a National Artist for Architecture, it was built as a response to the country’s growing international passenger traffic levels during the ’70s. Initially conceptualised for an annual passenger capacity of 4.5 million, the airport has been operating over its capacity since 1991. Its outmoded facilities, poor passenger comfort, and overcrowding have caused it to be consistently ranked as one of the world’s worst airports. By the time President Aquino approached Layug and Pineda, change was long overdue, but they were more than happy to pitch in—pro bono, at that. philippine tatler . august 2015
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The duo, along with industrial designer Kenneth Cobonpue, dove right in and took the bull by the horns, exploring the deepest corners of the terminal to try to understand its problems. The terminal’s main flaw was simple: it was operating without a plan. “It was reactive planning,” says Pineda. “If somebody complains about the toilet, they’ll fix the toilet. If somebody complains about the seats, they’ll do something about the seats. They were not anticipating problems and preparing for the future.” Layug, Pineda, and Cobonpue began creating for the NAIA architects a three-phase map. The first phase, which was completed early this year, includes the arrival and departure areas, zeroing in on the experience of arriving in Manila—specifically, the journey from the plane to the taxi stand. “It wasn’t just a matter of changing the carpets,” Layug explains. “It was a matter of bringing in that maaliwalas [bright and spacious] feeling.” Limited by budget, the changes they implemented were simple: bringing in light with new flooring and paint jobs, opening up walls to create space, and even just changing the finish on wood details. By working with the existing structure and tweaking it minimally, the trio were able to achieve great improvements. “It was such a huge transformation that one passenger even thought that he had flown into the wrong terminal,” relates Pineda with a laugh. The second phase includes the welcome area, while the third is a project that, once completed, will connect all three terminals using shuttles. Layug and Pineda see the second phase as an avenue to give Filipinos a stronger sense of dignity. Presently, the welcome area consists of a mere shed right next to the parking lot. There, it is common to see family-laden jeepneys waiting for their loved ones, regardless of the weather. “When it rains, they get wet. When it doesn’t, it’s extremely hot,” Pineda says. “It doesn’t present our culture properly. Upon seeing a whole family having a difficult time waiting for one relative, a foreigner may think Filipinos impractical. But if you give that family a tropical backdrop and create a decent space for well-wishers, that same foreigner might even wish that his own family would welcome him in the same way.” philippine tatler . august 2015
“Where there were limitations before, our partnership has opened doors. Each project is an opportunity to learn from each other and create something exciting” — Budji Layug With this in mind, they designed a tropical garden setting that would shelter crowds of well-wishers adequately, ensuring everyone’s comfort and safety. “The second phase will start construction in 2016,” says Layug. “The interior renovations took some time to finish because the terminal could not be shut down, but the wellwishers’ area is isolated so it should be completed relatively quickly, if everything goes according to plan.” Working on the airport was anything but a smooth sailing experience. “There were a lot of hurdles, but we couldn’t give up on it,” says Pineda. “We always complain whenever we arrive in Manila from overseas, and we always feel sorry for the Philippines when we see our airport. We could not just keep on complaining. Since we were being asked to help, we saw that as our time to do so. And so we pushed everybody to achieve the concept, and right now it’s starting to materialise—slowly, but surely.”
THE MODERN FILIPINO SENSIBILITY this is the principle around which Layug and Pineda’s design philosophy revolves: amplifying what is Filipino, making it relevant to the current times, and presenting it to the world. To them, modern Filipino design and architecture is not just about using specific shapes and materials, but responding to the lifestyle and needs of today’s Filipino. Modern Filipino is not a look, but a sensibility. “As the Philippines advances, so does its culture. The bahay kubo [nipa hut] was constructed as a response to its context, and the same should ring true for our architecture and design today,” says Pineda. “We have to interpret our progress
the vanguard Layug gets his inspiration from the materials he’s working with—he’s especially fond of bamboo
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“As the Philippines advances, so does its culture ... The worst thing that can happen to Filipino architecture and design is that they remain the same as even the culture moves forward” —Royal Pineda
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a new light Pineda credits his father, who was a professor, for imbibing in him his love for the country
and channel that into the new architecture and design of the Philippines. The worst thing that can happen to Filipino architecture and design is that they remain the same even as the culture moves forward.” Above all else, their philosophy emphasises the value of authenticity. “Our architecture will always be honest. When we reinterpret the principles of the bahay kubo or the bahay na bato [stone house], we’re not trying to forget the originals, but instead, are trying to understand their essence,” Pineda continues. “What defines the bahay kubo is the truthfulness and honesty of its creation. It demonstrates the technology of its age.” The Philippines, just as any other country, comes with its own sensibility and character. However, because of its history and geography, the Philippine identity eludes many of its people. What Layug and Pineda set out to do is to give Filipinos a sense of ownership, making them aware of their roots and their national identity, eventually allowing the rest of the globe recognise this identity. “It’s important for everybody to have a clear perspective of their origins and the authenticity of their personality,” remarks Pineda. “But this should always start from the physical form. If your landscape does not show you authenticity, then the mind follows suit. What we are trying to do, as architects and designers, is to create a physical way of defining who we are.” The modern Filipino sensibility, however, is not restricted to the Philippines. Layug and Pineda have undertaken projects in Malaysia, Thailand, US, India, Israel, and France, and are currently working on a large-scale project in Turkey involving a hotel, convention centre, training school, and sports facility. The fact that Filipino firms are being asked to do projects overseas is an indication of how much the country’s aesthetic has progressed. “Filipinos are a sensitive people,” Pineda explains. “That makes us global. That’s why our doctors, nurses, philippine tatler . august 2015
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grooming: myrene santos of mac cosmetics; Location: ninoy aquino xxx xxxxx xxxxx xxx xxxxxxxairport and the budji+royal architecture+design office international
and engineers are doing so well overseas—they are sensitive to their clients’ wants and needs.” When working with clients, local or otherwise, Layug and Pineda stay true to their own sensibility as they interpret and improve on their clients’ ideas. The modern Filipino sensibility opens them up to the world. “Historically, ours is a very Malay culture, but we have a lot of American, European, and Chinese influences,” Layug says. “If you look at the heart of what it means to be Filipino, you will see that we are a very open, happy people. And it shows in our way of living, how we work, how we enjoy life, and how we express it in terms of our design. We have a very open culture, and we are a people who welcome new approaches in everything.”
THE POWER OF COLLABORATION the free-flowing exchange of ideas that they foster with their clients is mirrored in the way the duo work alongside Cobonpue on the NAIA project. The trio are also working together on other projects (including the airport in Mactan, Cebu), and their chemistry creates an atmosphere that allows them to feed off each other’s energy. Collaboration is constant for Layug and Pineda, whether they’re working with a third party or just enjoying an exchange of ideas. “When we dine together, travel together, and remark on the beautiful and unsightly things that we see, we share our sentiments regarding a design and that is something we internalise,” Pineda says. The two have been working as partners for 13 years, and know each other’s minds so well that when they are presented with a project, they rarely have to sit down and deliberate. “What makes our partnership work is our shared sensibility,” Layug explains. “Whether our project is a house or an airport or a space, the fact that we see things in the same modern perspective makes it harmonious.” “Budji and I are like the left and right foot. One cannot reach one’s destination without the other,” says Pineda. “I see Budji and his work as inspirations, and I hope I inspire him too.” The collaboration helps them creatively. “When you are working alone, you can get tired very fast,” philippine tatler . august 2015
“Whether our project is a house or an airport or a space, the fact that we see things in the same modern perspective makes it harmonious” — Budji Layug Layug says. “But in a partnership, if you have a low and the other person has a high, you cancel each other out. Collaboration makes it easier.” Their partnership hasn’t just helped their creativity, but has also widened their professional horizons. Since they started working together, the world has turned into their proverbial oyster. “Where there were limitations before, our partnership has opened doors,” Layug says. “Each project is an opportunity to learn from each other and create something more exciting in architecture and design” They both envision a distinct cityscape carrying the country’s sense of place. “When someone takes a selfie here and you immediately know they’re in the Philippines, that’s our big dream,” says Pineda. As for the airport, their dreams for it don’t end at its renovation. “I would like to see a totally new airport within my lifetime, one that would represent modern Filipino design and architecture,” says Layug. “And I’d like to see that happen soon.” “Architecture and design are about uplifting the spirit,” says Pineda. “It’s about meeting humanity’s needs with form and function.” Though the plans for the construction of a new airport is still over the horizon, what Layug and Pineda have achieved together with Cobonpue speaks volumes. Evidently, bayanihan is very much alive—its modern incarnation visible not only in the trio’s contributions, but also in how Filipinos responded to their plans. When the rest of the world caught wind of the project via social media, Filipinos from all around the world began to offer their expertise for free, eager to do anything to contribute to the airport’s improvements. The desire to do something for the country was voiced by all. Using the world’s worst airport as their canvas, the Filipino people have expressed that the country can pick itself up from rock bottom, and that there is hope yet for the Philippines.
dynamic duo Layug and Pineda’s partnership is a harmonious one because of their continuous collaboration
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taking flight Ronald Ventura (opposite) Wings, 193x162.5cm, graphite and oil on cavas
the art p r o v o c at e u r Philippine Tatler speaks with Ronald Ventura, who has broken the
glass ceiling and reintroduced the modern Filipino artist to global awareness
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Image: David Ertl, 2015 Š Kunst- und Ausstellungshalle der Bundesrepublik Deutschland GmbH
hat do we really know about Ronald Ventura? We know he’s won several art awards and is one of the most successful Filipino artists in the world. He has received numerous awards including the Artist of the Year Award from Art Manila (2001), the 13 Artists Awards from Cultural Centre of the Philippines (2003), and the prestigious Ateneo Art Gallery Studio Residency Grant in Sydney, Australia in 2005 for The Human Study, his series of graphite works on canvas. In 2012, auction house giant Christie’s said, “Ventura has distinguished himself as a compelling visionary within contemporary Asian art over the last five years. Hailing from a background of rich storytelling and mythology within the Philippines, Ventura has rapidly expanded his idiosyncratic visual outreach to create highly recognisable and lucidly spellbinding canvases.” Ventura’s reputation has earned him various opportunities to exhibit both locally and abroad. Philippine Tatler sits down with the world’s highest-selling Filipino contemporary artist to find out why many say he is well on his way to becoming a legend. Philippine Tatler: What’s your background in art? Ronald Ventura: I finished Bachelor of Fine Arts, Major in Painting at the University of Santo Tomas. Just one semester after I graduated in 1993, the Dean of Architecture and Fine Arts [the two have been split into two colleges now] invited me to teach. I spent nine years teaching both lab and lecture classes. The school provided the syllabus, which I would upgrade or improve. PT: When did you know you had a talent for art? Do you think it was learnt or inborn? RV: You tell me. Around the time I was in kindergarten, when I was still learning the alphabet, I began to get hooked on [animation series] Voltes V, and began drawing Japanese robots on our door. Even before I memorised the alphabet [I was only up to the letter J] I was already drawing Voltes V. When I was in Grade 4, we were asked to write poems in school and accompany them with drawings. I was happy with the drawings I did, until I saw a classmate’s work. I was impressed and asked why it was different from mine. He explained that his material or medium was different. Only then did I realise that by using other media, like pastels maybe, artworks would look different from each other. So when I was in Grade 5, I took a summer art workshop under Fernando Sena. I also started using oils during my elementary years, and by high school, I was already doing commissioned works for friends of friends and family. PT: When did you start joining competitions? RV: I competed in poster competitions and on-the-spot drawing contests of banks and private corporations in high school. In 1990, I won First Place in the Shell National Students Art Competition.
vivid imagination (From top) Natural Highness, 152x122cm, graphite and oil on canvas; The artist at work; (opposite) Zookeeper, fibreglass/ resin, metal, found objects, acrylic, and charcoal
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PT: Where do you get your inspirations from? RV: My ideas for art come from a lot of things: experiences, art, history, fashion, culture—both personal and collective. Traditionally, for an exhibition, there is a series. But the art process isn’t really like that. Think of it this way: when an idea comes to me, I save it in my computer, in respective folders. I then categorise these folders and store them. When the time comes that I need an idea for a show, I get these folders and choose from them. Then I research more and see what I can improve for the show. PT: Who are the artists you admire? RV: I admire a lot of artists like Michelangelo from the classics, Picasso and Pollack from the modern era, Magritte and Dali from the surreal period. Among Filipino artists, I look up to Luna and Hidalgo of course, and Botong Francisco and Vicente Manansala for the more modern. The philippine tatler . august 2015
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glamour in the glades Chanel, ready-to-wear, spring-summer 2011
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list is long, to include contemporary artists both local and foreign. PT: They say you paint over your paintings? Is this true? RV: In some, yes. I follow a painting process. I do preliminary drawings; and sometimes I even put graffiti on the background of a painting. I paint for the day, and when I feel content, I stop. I can continue the next day or rest for a few days before continuing. I will paint and update a painting until I am satisfied. It’s like a film director who is shooting a scene—at certain points he will feel like he needs more extras or more light. This is the closest analogy to my painting process that I can think of. It is like a process of addition and subtraction. I want the state of a painting updated. Sometimes, I paint a full figure but paint over it to leave only a foot or an arm because I am updating the work. Sometimes, an object that has already been painted must be sacrificed to achieve what I want in a painting. I always keep my options open, as my painting is not programmed; it is just how my mind plays. PT: You do sculptures aside from paintings. Any more art forms? What is your favourite? RV: I do photography, print, animated videos, and installations. Drawing is my passion. It is also a process. It is the skeleton of a painting or a sculpture. A drawing is like a diary of notes that will eventually be concretised.
artistic reasons (From top) Wild Park, painting on wall, and Beast, the assemblage in front; The artist takes a break; (opposite) Night Rebel, 61x91.5x113 cm, fiberglass/resin, metal, acrylic, and charcoal
PT: Your recent exhibition, “Hunting Ground,” staged in Italy has been reviewed as dark yet astounding. The pieces are actually something people would buy and proudly display in their homes. Do you think this is why your art is so well received worldwide? RV: I think this is because my works are not raw, they are more polished even to the point of sophistication. It’s like a jacket. Even if it looks like a straitjacket, if done well, it becomes high fashion and people will buy and wear it because of the quality of the work. Like art versus fine art. PT: You also curate shows. Define your curating philosophy. Any upcoming shows curated by you? RV: For me, to curate is to cure. It is directing a show from the start, to help re-direct a show and make it better. For installation purposes, it is not really to design the exhibition but to help make it more effective and to achieve a better ambience for the audience. I have curated some of my shows and will curate “Vortex Manila 2” in Lugano in the first half of next year for Filipino artists Jigger Cruz, Lynyrd Paras, my brother Roldan “Manok” Ventura, and Yeo Kaa. It is exciting to curate the works of young painters as their paintings are fresh. I find it exciting to know and learn what they think. PT: How do you feel about people re-selling your art? RV: I really don’t mind it and I am not bothered. I actually feel good that they had their time to enjoy my work and now my work will be enjoyed by others and my art can get to be spread to other audiences. PT: When is your next show? RV: My works [both paintings and sculptures] will have a solo booth at the Taipei Art Fair this November. PT: Describe your art in one sentence. RV: My art is to liberate visual perception.
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base camp prada The Rem Koolhaas-designed Fondazione Prada in Milan is the Pritzker Prize-winner’s disruptive answer to homogeneously white art spaces and trophy-centric architecture, writes Stephen Short
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perhaps it was the bicycle with wooden wheels he rode as a young boy that left its discordant blueprint on Dutch architect Remment Koolhaas. Better known as Rem, he has been predisposed ever since to find the least conventional yet most innovative solutions to architectural scenarios presented by his clients. Koolhaas and his company, OMA, have made a practice of bringing the asymmetrical and unfamiliar as a kind of “house cool” to an eclectic portfolio of projects—such as the CCTV Headquarters in Beijing, the Casa da Música in Porto, Portugal, and a variety of intriguing endeavours for luxury labels. Koolhaas has collaborated with Italian brand Prada for 15 years on fashion boutiques, art spaces, pop-up exhibition structures and, most recently, the Fondazione Prada, newly opened in southern Milan. The Fondazione was created in 1993 as an outpost to analyse the present through the staging of contemporary art exhibitions as well as those focusing on architecture, cinema and philosophy. It’s culture as learning, an ever-evolving intellectual pursuit. That dialogue is driven by the respective curatorial departments of the Fondazione, a lofty group who call themselves the Thought Council. Miuccia Prada and her husband, Patrizio Bertelli, are its presidents—there’s even a “scientific superintendent,” Germano Celant. But there are no fashion police here. In fact, there’s no fashion at all. The Fondazione is kept fiercely separate at Miuccia’s behest. There’s no skein of fabric nor any textile yarn to be found at Largo Isarco, a sprawling wasteland betwixt the railway tracks and the soulless tower blocks of this glamourless “graybourhood” in Milan. Mrs Prada, as she’s known by her people, is nothing if not visionary. She wanted to open her artistic and cultural Fondazione in different cities, spreading her gospel globally. But Mr Prada talked her out of it.
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Given that they owned the former distillery from the early 20th century, they decided to start on their own doorstep. Koolhaas wasn’t immediately in favour of the idea, suggesting that the industrial-to-gallery/exhibition concept was hardly new or challenging. (He’s recently performed a similar stunt at the Garage Contemporary Museum of Art in Moscow for Russian billionairess Dasha Zhukova, to stunning effect.) So the Pradas told him he could knock it down and start all over again, should he feel so inclined. Koolhaas did what Koolhaas does: he took the route of greatest resistance and complexity, a midway point of preservation and creation. The space combines seven existing buildings with three new structures: Podium, Cinema, and Torre. Through an philippine tatler . august 2015
pinball wizard (Clockwise from left) Film director Wes Anderson’s Bar Luce; The gold-tinged Haunted House; Discobolus, the It boy of old
exaggerated, deliberate technical mash-up, Koolhaas created a 205,000sqft campus (or mini-city) that greets you in all its gauze and gloss gallimaufry, like a two-fingered topology of Koolsville. The entire Rem repertoire is rolled into one mass of contrast and oppositions, new and old, horizontal and vertical, narrow and wide, squared and circled, expansive and suffocating. He explains, “By introducing so many spatial variables, the complexity of the architecture will promote an unstable, open programming, where art and architecture will benefit from each other’s challenges.” Koolhaas explains the art/museum debate as well: “It is surprising that the enormous expansion of the art system has taken place in a reduced number of typologies philippine tatler . august 2015
for art’s display. To apparently everybody’s satisfaction, the abandoned industrial space has become art’s default preference— attractive because its predictable conditions do not challenge the artist’s intentions— enlivened occasionally with exceptional architectural gestures,” he says. None are more visible than the fourstorey tower that galvanises the centre of the brooding space, rubbed with gold leaf redolent of Renaissance technique and rising from the compound like salubrious salvation. But even that’s not what it seems—move closer and spot the cracks. What looks like upscale wealth is also luxury affront. The structure is called Haunted House and is eerily remiscent of a separate light: the iconic Benson & Hedges cigarette advertisements
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images: attilio maranzano, bas princen, all courtesy of fondazione prada milano 2015
open, shut (From left) View of the permanent installation Corner Door and Doorframe by Robert Gober; Damien Hirst’s Lost Love is part of the Trittico display
from the 1970s and ’80s, in which the golden packet functioned as part of the Egyptian pyramids and other architectural scenarios. But once inside the “packet,” its big windows light up the space well and the sequence of single rooms preseves an intimate scale. The secluded environments host a permanent installation conceived by Robert Gover and two works by Louise Bourgeois. There’s irony in Prada’s billion-dollar size and global influence. Miuccia and Rem can seem punkish, Sex Pistols-esque, intent on bashing up the amour-propre of art’s hierachical and homogenous white space— smashing its pedestals, vandals ransacking the doors of the conventional and emerging like triumphant liberators in a more seductive world of independent thought. It’s all part and parcel of the Fondazione frisson. The structure has isolating, sinister, no original. So, too, Crouching Venus, despite almost violent tendencies, compounded by the institutionalised feeling of the complex, as repeated attempts to relocate the It boy and girl of their halcyon day. though subversive trans-human experiments The Sud gallery and part of the Deposito, are taking place within—and inevitably we’re an imposing warehouse on the compound’s next. By way of contrast, it’s also one big west edge, is showing work from the aesthetic adventureland. Standing amid the Collezione Prada until January 2016. There are mash-up, which can also feel like mutiple film pieces from Walter De Maria, Yves Klein and sets, one’s spoiled for choice on the mise-enDonald Judd, as well as from contemporary scene with which to interact. artists such as Jeff Koons, Gerhard Richter, Bar Luce is US film director Wes Carsten Höller and Sarah Lucas. Anderson’s shrine to Milanese cafes of the The Cinema space is 1950s and ’60s. Its hosting a Roman Polanski Formica furniture, project (another Mrs Prada veneered wood panels Discobolus, collaborator) in which and terrazzo floor the shocking the director’s films are pay faithful homage. retraced by analysing those Anderson likes it, too. and supremely that have most influenced “While I do think it him; Citizen Kane, Great would make a good athletic Expectations and 8½ movie set, it would be an “formalDehyde among them. even better place to write The Cisterna is hosting a movie.” shark” of his Trittico, which juxtaposes And then there’s the three works on a rotational art. See any one of the time, has no basis, emphasising crossseven exhibitions: Serial original references—in this case, a Classic shines a light on cube. We see Eva Hesse’s classical sculpture in Case II, Damien Hirst’s Lost late Republican Roman Love and Pino Pascali’s 1 Metro Cubo di Terra. culture. To our surprise, the Romans were There’s no shortage of art and interest in mass-producing and reproducing the Greeks this distillery of dislocation, this intricate faster than you could say Damien Hirst. complex of Kool. Grab those wooden wheels Discobolus, the shocking and supremely and get on your bike. athletic “formaldehyde shark” of his time, has philippine tatler . august 2015
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life Wine, culture, cars, and travel
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James Suckling on vintages from Château d’Aussières Corbières and Château Giscours
With state-of-the-art features, the reinvented Volvo XC90 takes the world by storm
Kim and Felicia Atienza’s Old Manila home and their extensive art, furniture, and fauna collections
Bottega Veneta’s store in Milan, B&B Italia’s Giorgio Busnelli, Le Corbusier, Ethan Allen’s bridal registry
wine
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cars
homes
design
hong kong tatler . month year
ever after Bottega Veneta’s flagship home furnishings store in Milan feels like a next-gen luxury retail fairy tale
hong kong tatler . month year
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LIFE | wine
Marvellous Margaux Dutch tycoon Eric Albada Jelgersma acquired Château Giscours in the mid-1990s and renovated the third-growth Margaux estate into one of the best names from Bordeaux. The winery is best known for such classic vintages as 1961 and 1970, but James Suckling says its current years, particularly the 2009 and 2010, will be of even better quality—and at a reasonable price
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2000
Decadent and rich like the great vintage it is. Shows glorious ripe fruit, spice, dark berry, meat and chocolate aromas and flavours. Full body, solid and condensed. Really delicious now; drink or hold. 55% cabernet sauvignon, 40% merlot, 5% cabernet franc. 93 points
2008
There’s a very good core of red fruits here such as strawberries, as well as flowers and minerals. Full to medium body, firm tannins, and a fresh and clean finish. The tangy acidity of the vintage still comes out, but it’s just about ready to drink now. 65% cabernet sauvignon, 30% merlot, 5% petit verdot. 92 points
2001
Gorgeous—features plum, berry, coffee and hints of shaved chocolate. Full-bodied, firm and chewy tannins, and a long, flavourful finish. Drink now. 60% cabernet franc, 40% merlot. 92 points
2003
This has always been one of the top 2003s, with lots of dark berry, plum, fresh flowers and dark spices. Fullbodied, with lots of fruit and velvety tannins. Chewy texture. A delicious wine to drink now, but better to decant two hours in advance. Drink or hold. 60% cabernet sauvignon, 40% merlot. 95 points
2009
This legendary vintage produced a great Giscours with lots of blackcurrant, blueberry and hot stone character. Full-bodied, firm and chewy. Wonderful depth and structure. Needs at least another three years to soften and show you its true greatness, yet you could decant two or three hours before serving and still enjoy now. 53% cabernet sauvignon, 40% merlot, 7% petit verdot. 95 points
2010
A real purity and beauty to this red with blackberry, blackcurrant, light tar and cloves. Full body, firm tannins and a chewy finish. A structured and rich wine. Starting to look better than the superb 2009. Better in 2018. 71% cabernet sauvignon, 29% merlot. 96 points
2004
Wonderful freshness and drinkability. Medium to full body, firm tannins, and a chewy and bright finish. Currant and dark chocolate flavours. An attractive wine now. 58% cabernet sauvignon, 42% merlot. 93 points
2011
I like the plum and currant character, with tea leaf on the nose. It follows through to the palate, with firm tannins and assertive acidity. Needs time to soften; better in 2017. 75% cabernet sauvignon, 20% merlot, 5% petit verdot. 92 points
2005
Unique aromas of ripe fruit such as currants and plums, as well as mint, cloves and coffee. Full body, chewy tannins, and lots of fruit and structure on the finish. Needs time to come together. Better in 2017, but decant two hours now and see the glory. 62% cabernet sauvignon, 38% merlot. 95 points
2012
Lots of tar, dark berry and walnut aromas in this wine. Full body, solid core of fruit and fresh tannins, and a mineral, dark berry and stone character. Drink or hold. 69% cabernet sauvignon, 27% merlot, 4% cabernet franc. 92 points
For more wine recommendations, visit hongkongtatler.com/wine and jamessuckling.com
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Southern Secret Just about everyone knows Château Lafite Rothschild. But many don’t know that the owners and the team behind Lafite are making a delicious wine called Château d’Aussières Corbières in the south of France, near Narbonne. James Suckling says it shows the richness and decadence of the Corbières appellation, but with a precision and finesse that could only come from the winemakers of the Bordeaux first growth
Aromas of meat, smoke, and tar, with loads of black pepper. Full body, round, and silky tannins, and an earthy finish. Shows the density and potential of Aussières. Syrah and grenache. 89 points
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2008
A precise red with tar, blackberry, spice, and stone. Full-bodied, round, and fruity. 58% syrah, 32% mourvèdre, 10% grenache. Drink now. 91 points
2010
Complex aromas of dried flowers, tar, meat, chocolate, and berries. On the palate, leaves and mushrooms, with some strawberry. Full-bodied, yet refined and delicate with fine tannins. Long and delicious finish. 65% syrah, 18% mourvèdre, 10% carignan, 7% grenache. Why wait? 91 points
2012
Beautiful spice, tar, and driedberry character. Medium body, with a fresh finish and bright acidity. Bitter chocolate, berry, and walnut character. A success in a difficult vintage. 75% syrah, 20% grenache, 5% mourvèdre. Drink now. 90 points
2014
Young barrel sample with fantastic freshness and richness. Flower petals, lavender, blackberry, black pepper, tar, and rosemary. Full body with firm tannins, and a long, beautiful finish. 60% syrah, 15% carignan, 15% grenache, 10% mourvèdre. Bottling in spring 2016. 92–93 points
philippine tatler . august 2015
illustration: andy leung
2006
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2014 11 YEARS OF FINE DINING SINCE 2004
experT reviews of over 160 resTauranTs and bars
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LIFE | WINE
Overcoming the Odds
ometimes burgundy wine producers aren’t able to predict what will happen when Mother Nature doles out just about every calamity a winemaker can imagine during a grape-growing season. That’s exactly what happened in 2013. I had heard about the problems of nearbiblical proportions during the growing season and harvest—disastrous hailstorms, a lack of sun, heavy rain, and rampant disease. But winemakers in Burgundy’s Côte d’Or turned out some surprisingly high-quality wines. “It’s really amazing that a year like 2013 made such excellent wines,” admits Dimitri Bazas, winemaker and general manager of the small négociant Champy. “Decades ago, it would have been really difficult.” The year produced some truly excellent whites with classy density and acid tension, while many reds showed good fruit, firm tannins, and bright acidity. In the past, these would have become thin, green, and unripe wines, but today it’s a different story thanks to the know-how of the top names in Burgundy. Over the course of five days in June, I tasted a few hundred wines in Beaune (primarily the 2011 to 2014 vintages) from top names including Louis Jadot, Louis Latour, Joseph Drouhin, Bouchard Père et Fils, Domaine Faiveley, and Olivier Leflaive. I wasn’t expecting much, but the results clearly showed in the glass. “Sometimes you just can’t explain why a vintage is excellent— and 2013 is just that,” says Jean-Charles Thomas, the winemaker of Louis Latour. “That’s Burgundy. The wines have transparency and finesse. They are a little like 2002 or 2010. The whites are really wonderful and the reds have no astringency. To be honest, it’s astonishing that they’re not austere and hard. Instead, they show well already and, in two or three years, they’ll be wonderful.”
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I developed a wonderful impression of many of the 2013s, especially the whites. I even tasted one potentially perfect 2013 white—the Lucien Le Moine Montrachet Grand Cru. It’s a compelling wine, with incredible density and electrifying acidity that combines for terrific texture and length. There were many others of note, including the 2013 Joseph Drouhin Beaune Clos des Mouches Premier Cru. Also look for some of the village wines from Puligny-Montrachet and ChassagneMontrachet. In some cases, blends of wines from different vineyards were better than single-vineyard wines. I was also impressed with some of Chassagne’s white premier crus, particularly Louis Latour and Alex Gambal. “We had very low yields—in some instances only seven hectolitres per hectare compared to the usual 20 or 25—with our top whites in 2013. But what we made was excellent quality,” says Véronique Drouhin-Boss, head winemaker of Joseph Drouhin. “The best whites remind me of the 2010 in style, with good ripeness and very intense acidity.” The reds were a little inconsistent compared to the whites; some were too lean and lacking fruit. But I enjoyed many of them for their freshness, clarity, and expression of the unique soils and microclimates. “Each wine is so different,” says Rotem Brakin, co-owner of the small négociant Lucien Le Moine. “It’s hard to generalise in 2013—all you can say is that it’s a very Burgundian year.” The 2011s and 2012s I tasted were better overall than the 2013s, and the 2014s show promise. Nevertheless, I will always remember the 2013s because of their extraordinary results in the face of undeniable hardships. philippine tatler . august 2015
illustration: andy leung
Despite the potential for disaster in the calamitous 2013 season, the wine producers of Burgundy lucked out with some truly impeccable wines, writes James Suckling
WINE | LIFE
new horizons Creative white wines, a stunning Dom Pérignon and experimental grape varieties in Bordeaux are on James Suckling’s radar this month
Beyond Malbec
Argentina is best known for its bold reds from the malbec grape. But its whites, particularly from cooler climates such as Patagonia, are showing potential. In April, I tasted close to 100 of them; the best whites continue to be international varieties, particularly chardonnay and semillon. My top white from Argentina this year was from Catena Zapata. Its 2012 Chardonnay Gualtallary Valle de Uco White Bones shows the acidity and intensity of a top grand Chablis, along with all the minerality one could hope for in a white of the genre—I rate it 98 points. Chardonnay is often excessively creamy and oaky in Argentina. However, winemakers like Catena’s Alejandro Vigil and Zuccardi’s Sebastian Zuccardi are cutting back on malolactic fermentations and using wood sensibly, looking for an expression of their vineyards with a Burgundian sense of style. They are also planting in higher, cooler altitudes in limestone-rich soils to attain freshness and typicity. The resulting wines deliver intense mineral expressions of a world-class chardonnay that deserves attention.
Roll Out the Barrels Traditional producers in Spain’s Rioja region have aged their whites in wooden casks for centuries, producing distinctive wines with a creamy, vanilla and slightly oxidised character. But one producer, Olivier Rivière, is taking this practice to another level—by ageing his whites in used sherry barrels that were once full of manzanilla. It gives the white a unique salty, woody flavour as well as notes of dried fruit. 97 points
future Frontiers
Dom-ination
Moët & Chandon’s recently released 2005 Dom Pérignon is its best since 2002, which was one of the top vintages of recent years and is probably only eclipsed by the amazing 100-point 1996. The 2005 is full-bodied with so much richness, and loads of ripe fruit such as pineapple and papaya. With a wonderful, creamy texture and a long, intense finish, this is a champagne that fully satisfies—but at the same time challenges you with its strength, depth and persistence on the palate. 97 points
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Bordeaux researchers are currently experimenting with 52 grape varieties to find ones that can produce Bordeaux-style wines if climate change significantly alters the region’s growing conditions. The region is expecting increasingly wet, stormy winters and hot, dry summers. Selected from warmer regions in Europe, grapes including touriga nacional, xinomavro, and assyrtiko have been planted in an experimental parcel in PessacLéognan. Out of the 52 varieties, around 20 grapes have been selected for micro-fermentation this year after being planted in 2009. However, there’s going to be a long wait before those wines could hit the shelves, as researchers have to go through a series of tests and regulatory approvals.
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feast LIFE | CARS
great and mighty The all-new XC90, Volvo’s innovative and design-driven luxury SUV; (opposite, clockwise from top) The interior of the all new Volvo; The plush seats; Volvo XC90 replaces the normal array of buttons with a large tablet-like touch screen, a head-up display, and thumb controls on the steering wheel
The Magnificent Rebirth he new volvo XC90 has a lot to live up to, with the first generation going beyond the carmaker’s expectations, continuing to rack up sales more than a decade after it was first introduced to the market. But looking at the 2015 reincarnation, with its efficient new engines, innovative interiors, cuttingedge safety and connectivity features, as well as its swanky redesigned Volvo badge, the XC90 is about to take the world by storm yet again. Reclaiming its reputation for greatness, Volvo redefines the SUV segment with
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this version that’s set to usher in a new Volvo era. The all-new XC90 is the first car in its range to be built on the Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) modular chassis technology, marking the arrival of new-generation Volvos. SPA has been under in-house development at Volvo for the past four years and is the cornerstone of the company’s ongoing US$11 billion transformation plan. After being introduced with the all-new XC90, it will be rolled out across the product range in the future. This ingenious innovation launches a revolution as it creates endless design possibilities. It allows Volvo’s engineers and designers to have complete freedom in philippine tatler . august 2015
words: mitch tizon-dela paz
Volvo reconfirms its reputation for greatness with its second generation XC90, complete with new revolutionary designs and features and new standards for safety
devising a wide range of new and alluring design features, as well as in improving drivability, introducing high-technology safety features, and offering the latest connected car technologies, all while creating more interior space. SPA will also change the way Volvo builds cars by allowing a wide range of cars, powertrains, electrical systems and technologies—all of differing complexities—to be fitted on the same architecture, generating significant economies of scale. “SPA and the XC90 are firm evidence of our Volvo-by-Volvo strategy. The XC90’s outstanding combination of luxury, space, versatility, efficiency, and safety will bring the SUV segment into a new dimension, just as the original XC90 did in 2002,” says Dr Peter Mertens, Volvo Car Group’s senior vice president for research and development of Volvo Car Group. Everything You Need and More The new XC90 features innovatively designed seats that free up interior space for passengers in the second and third rows, helping make the new XC90 a genuine philippine tatler . august 2015
Volvo XC90 t6 Engine
Four-cylinder supercharged and turbocharged engine Horse Power (hp) 320 Rev at max engine power 5700 rpm Rev at max engine torque 2200-5400 rpm Torque 400 nm Top Speed 230 kph Fuel Type Petrol
Volvo XC90 d5 Engine
Four-cylinder twin turbocharged diesel engine Horse Power (hp) 225 Rev at max engine power 4250 rpm Rev at max engine torque 1750-2500 rpm 470 nm Torque Top Speed 220 kph Fuel Type Diesel
seven-seater. The sliding function on all seats in the second row can be used to create more legroom for passengers in the third row—or to increase loading capacity.
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king of the road The XC90’s Park Assist Pilot uses 12 ultrasonic sensors to perpendicular or parallel park for you
finer details
Volvo’s updated City Safety system in the XC90 can detect stationary traffic, pedestrians, cyclists, as well as oncoming traffic, to prevent common accidents in urban areas
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The seats in the third row offer class-leading comfort for passengers up to 170 cm tall. Offering unrivalled combination of power and fuel efficiency, the new XC90 also offers a range of Drive-E engine options, all of which provide an outstanding combination of performance and fuel-efficiency. The top-of-the-range XC90 “Twin Engine” combines a two-litre, four-cylinder supercharged and turbocharged petrol engine with an electric motor and offers an unrivalled combination of power and clean operation—around 400 horsepower with carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions of around 60 g/km (NEDC driving cycle). Volvo is all about safety—it’s one of the core values of the company, and one of the main qualities the brand is famous for. Volvo aims that by 2020, no one should be killed or seriously injured in a Volvo, and the Swedish company starts working towards this goal with the new XC90, designing it to be one of the safest cars in the market. The new SPA architecture enables significant improvements both when it comes to offering protection in worstcase scenarios and when creating innovative features that support the driver in avoiding accidents. “We retain
our uncompromising attitude to offering superior crash protection,” says Jan Ivarsson, Senior Manager for Safety Strategy and Requirements. He adds: “The new architecture opens up for further improvements. Seven per cent of the safety cage in the original XC90 was made of hot-formed boron steel. The structure in the all-new XC90 features over 40 per cent hot-formed steel, which translates into significantly improved strength but without adding mass or weight.” The driver of the new XC90 can stay connected to the world, one of the car’s amazing connectivity features, offering an excellent in-car driving experience. The car features a vertical touchscreen centre console with tablet-like touchscreen replacing the buttons. Senior Vice President for Design Thomas Ingenlath says: “The adaptive digital instrument cluster and the head-up display make sure that the most relevant information is always available where the driver needs it.” The XC90 also offers Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which brings selected features and services familiar to smartphone users directly into the car via the large centre console touch screen display. Users will immediately recognise the well-known icons for their basic applications, such as phone, messages, music, and navigation. philippine tatler . august 2015
Living
•
Luxurious
Entertaining in Style Fabulous Homes and FresH design ideas From around tHe world VOLUME 11 LIVING LUXURIOUS kip s bay d e co rato r s ho w ho us e
arik levy
l ux e ta b l e s e t t i ngs
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HOMES Cover.indd 2
7/2/15 4:44 PM
THE INSIDER’S GUIDE TO
LUXURY LIVING Volume 11
Now available at digital magazine newsstands Zinio and Magzter Also available at selected newsstands and the city’s best bookstores.
homes
The Art of Living
They say art is a reflection of man’s soul, and this masterpiece of a property by the beach is a testament to its resident’s own
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homes | LIFE
Artistic Impulse The home of the late fashion icon Joe Salazar offers a fitting canvas for the growing art, furniture, and fauna collections of Kim and Felicia Atienza
Photography toto labrador Words MARIELLE ANTONIO
the old and the new In the heart of Malate, the Atienzas’ mid-century modern house is surrounded by a lush garden and is guarded by a century-old balete tree philippine tatler . august 2015
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homes | LIFE
early 10 years ago, Kim and Felicia Atienza found themselves moving into the home of the late, great fashion designer Joe Salazar for two reasons. First, they wanted to give their growing children, Jose and Eliana, a more comfortable space; second, their two-bedroom flat could no longer contain their flourishing art collection. “We were hanging our artworks in the hallways of our apartment building,” Felicia recounts. Luckily, a neighbour, the journalist Apa Ongpin, mentioned a house that had recently been put on the market in Manila—an ideal location for the couple. philippine tatler . august 2015
“We checked it out and immediately fell in love with it,” she says. Though it was difficult to say goodbye to their bohemian neighbours and to an unobstructed view of Manila Bay, the family soon grew to adore the charm and fresh air of old Manila. “Every so often, the kids and I take a tricycle to the San Andres market or a kalesa [horse-drawn carriage] around Malate,” says Felicia. “We love how Divisoria, Intramuros, and Chinatown are just a stone’s throw away from home,” she says. The Atienzas found more to explore within the gates of their new home, which was built some time in the fifties or sixties and renovated extensively by Salazar when he
all in the family Kim and Felicia enjoy the company of their two pet macaws and labrador Minnie; (opposite) A mural by the artist Alfredo Esquillo Jnr, a carved Senatong alligator by the sculptor Jerry Araos, and a Frank Gehry side table and wiggle chair
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“I’m a dog person and Kim has always been into exotic animals and reptiles,” Felicia says
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homes | LIFE
bought it in the seventies. It is likely that the structure they are living in today is no longer the original one. “When we bought the place, the land title was written in Spanish,” Felicia says. “This house has probably gone through a few cycles of building, demolition, rebuilding, and renovation.” Salazar’s influences are apparent in the silhouette of the mid-century modern structure—a style that is perfectly suited to the couple’s tastes. Felicia discloses that together with the use of piedra china (Chinese granite cobblestone), the architecture was what drew them to the house. “We maintained the parts of the house that were renovated by Joe,” says Felicia. Meanwhile, they had help from architect Ed Calma in planning the remodelling of the bedrooms and the kitchen, which were rendered as close to Salazar’s style as possible but with updated fixtures. During the designer’s lifetime, many of his friends expressed admiration for his vibrant
garden and the massive, century-old balete tree on the side of the house. Today, the lush garden continues to thrive under the care of the Atienzas, who have made some new additions of their own. “I’m a dog person, and Kim has always been into exotic animals and reptiles,” Felicia says. Together, they are the adoptive parents of 46 dogs, a couple of macaws, and a vast collection of snakes, lizards, and tortoises. “We’ve lost track because they keep reproducing!” she says, laughing. When they bought the house, Kim and Felicia agreed to split the work of making the place their own. Felicia oversaw the structural renovation; Kim took care of the interior finishing and decoration. Because it was shadowed by the balete, Salazar’s home was dark and cavernous; so the Atienzas decided to knock down a few walls to let more light in and to expand the space. “We also painted the walls white to highlight the art,” Felicia explains, adding that they
cool clutter In the living room: portrait by the artist Elmer Borlongan, more iconic mid-century chairs—including a Charles Eames lounge and ottoman— and more of the couple’s painting collection stacked on the side; (opposite) A Julie Lluch sculpture of the home’s original owner, the designer Joe Salazar, with Kim’s fossil and meteorite collection and a vintage Vespa, among other things
one with nature On the pedestal beside an artwork by Jaime Zóbel de Ayala is an antique silver Moro gadur from Lanao del Sur; the infinity pool is a perfect place to relax on a sunny day;(opposite page clockwise from top left) tte of black, white, and anthracite is carried all the way to the bedrooms; a glass window commands a view of the lush foliage; hurricane lamps line the white stairs at the main entrance of the home
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LIFE | homes
“Art means nothing if it is not shared with and appreciated by others,” Felicia says
art menagerie Early ‘90s works by the artist Louie Cordero; An arco lamp, Santiago Bose artwork, a Bertoya Swan chair, a Mies Van Der Rohe Wassily chair, and a George Nelson sofa for this cosy corner; (opposite) The family’s Burmese python rests on the concrete outdoor set
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likewise wanted their collection of modern chairs to fit into the design scheme. “They are sculptures you can sit on,” she explains, describing the chairs that have become signature pieces of the home. She and Kim continue to update their art and furniture collections, making new discoveries and adding exciting pieces to the mix. “Our once minimalist home is bursting yet again and looks more like a museum bodega [storage room],” she quips. One of their pieces, Ma McKinley, by the artist Alfredo Esquillo Jnr, is currently on loan to the Metropolitan Museum of Art. It has been to at least seven countries, including the Whitney Museum in New York. “Before the artist sold it to us, he requested to borrow it for important exhibitions,” Felicia says. Ma McKinley is an eerie portrait of a
Caucasian Thomasite with talons for hands, holding a Filipino child clothed in America’s stars and stripes. Various other art pieces have been lent to a few exhibitions. “Art means nothing if it is not shared with and appreciated by others,” Felicia says. The Atienzas have also been able to collect some abstract pieces from the eighties by the painter Elmer Borlongan, who is now known for his figurative style. They discovered and collected the early works of the contemporary visual artist Geraldine Javier, whom Felicia refers to as an auction superstar. “We know all the artists personally,” she adds. “It adds a dimension of friendship to our appreciation of the art.” Though their collections are stunningly selected and extensive in scale, Felicia
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precious pieces The family’s remarkable art collection includes a mural by the artist Arturo Luz and a bust of Felicia, given as a gift by the sculptor Julie Lluch
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“We choose art that we like to look at and chairs that we enjoy sitting on,” she says. “The financial value is secondary”
maintains that she and Kim have remained infatuated with mid-century modern objects. “We choose art that we like to look at and chairs that we enjoy sitting on,” she says. “The financial value is secondary.” For Felicia, the beautiful pieces they have collected do not just have artistic worth, but also hold personal meaning. She and Kim began collecting seriously after she gave him an Arturo Luz piece called Temples when they were still dating. “His favourite pieces now are the Charles Eames longue and ottoman because I philippine tatler . august 2015
gave those to him too,” she says. “He also loves the wooden Jerry Araos chairs in the kitchen because he had a deep friendship with the old man before he died.” Felicia herself treasures those moments when she is able to watch the kids play on the alligator see-saws, to curl up with them in the Eames chaise longue and the Bertoia bird chair, or to hang out with Kim on the George Nelson Marshmallow sofa. “To me, home means family, laughter, and love,” she says. “We can make a dream home out of any place as long as we’re together.”
burst of colour A Charles Eames chaise longue, George Nelson marshmallow chair, and Charles Eames rocker in the reading area; Millionaire vines a century-old balete tree; (inset) Polar, the blue and gold macaw, cuddles up to the green-winged Rainbow
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LIFE | design
Palazzo Chic Bottega Veneta’s inaugural home furnishings store opens in Milan and promises to be a luxury retail game-changer, writes Stephen Short
nce upon a time in the luxury lifestyle retail landscape, an upscale Italian brand called Bottega Veneta opened its inaugural home-furnishing boutique within the Palazzo Gallarati Scotti, an 18th-century townhouse of former aristocratic connection at 5 Via Borgospesso in Milan… and virtually nobody noticed. That was in March. Our hero and aesthetic prince, Bottega Veneta creative director Tomas Maier, was so discreet that not only were those who covet the brand’s Cabat bags and accessories unaware of the Milan store’s opening, they were also mostly oblivious to the brand’s home connections. Yet Bottega Veneta’s home-furnishing artistry will celebrate its 10th anniversary next year. “We knew we wanted a dedicated space for our furniture in the heart of Milan,” says Maier. “It was just a matter of finding the ideal location. When this incredible palazzo came up, we knew it would be perfect.” And so it was: stately yet unassuming on the outside, but magnificent and breathtaking on the inside. As Maier evocatively puts it, the store is “like discovering the luxurious lining of a handbag.” The 2,200-square-foot space has high, grandiose ceilings in its rooms, made all the more so by the presence of original frescoes by 18th-century masters Carlo Innocenzo Carlone and Giovanni Battista Tiepolo, imposing stone columns and 250-year-old terracotta floor tiles, providing an exceptional setting that honours the space’s existing beauty. “The contemporary design of Bottega Veneta Home collections plays dramatically against the historic palazzo’s soaring coffered ceilings and remarkable frescoes,” Maier says with pride. “In our Milan Via Borgospesso store, our furniture collection meets Italian tradition. A lot of townhouses in the centre of Milan have unique settings, but we believe it’s important to respect them and find the right balance with our contemporary proposals.” That’s a Bottega Veneta mantra: “It is part of our brand philosophy to try to respect and enhance heritage and historical legacy as much as we can.” Maier, not unlike Karl Lagerfeld, has a tendency to get his contemporary proposals right, often one step ahead of the competition. Sensing a shift from pure fashion and philippine tatler . august 2015
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LIFE | design
from past to present (From top) Bottega Veneta’s new home furnishings headquarters sits in a grand 2,200sqft palazzo; The space features frescoes by 18th-century masters
accessories to lifestyle in the post-millennium era, Bottega Veneta first began displaying its homewares at Salone del Mobile in Milan in 2006. “When we set up, our aim was to create furniture accessories—versatile pieces that can completely change the look and feel of a room,” explains Maier. “How often do you need to buy a new couch once you’ve found one that suits you?” he asks rhetorically. “Most of us, we don’t need another couch. But we’re always looking for unique pieces that will change the look of a room.” Bottega Veneta wanted to offer its customers furniture with the impact of an exceptional handbag or piece of luggage—“something versatile, functional, and beautifully crafted, certainly, but also completely transforming.” The hits kept coming: chests of drawers; porcelain pieces in collaboration with renowned German porcelain producer Königliche PorzellanManufaktur; and the Meta armchair in collaboration with furniture maker Poltrona Frau in 2008. The Meta, in Pelle Frau leather, was pivotal. “The curves and cushions on that chair were a world away from the clean lines and angular construction of our luggage-inspired furniture,”
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recalls Maier. “It’s one reason we started with an armchair—a library chair—because books and libraries have been an inspiration and a motif for Bottega Veneta for a long time. I think an armchair is a true object of desire. Once you fall in love with one, you never want to sit anywhere else.” The exclusive collaboration continues; Maier designs the seating collection for Bottega Veneta, which Poltrona Frau then crafts. “Seating requires an understanding of furniture construction as it relates to comfort and the human body—a particular kind of technical expertise that is not ours. This is why we collaborated with Poltrona Frau,” he says. This level of exclusivity has attracted others. As well as the Bottega Veneta suites in the St Regis Rome, St Regis Florence and Park Hyatt Chicago, Maier recently collaborated with German real estate developer Ralf Schmitz on the interior design for Eisenzahn 1, a new luxury residential project with 11 units and one penthouse in the heart of Berlin’s historic Charlottenburg-Wilmersdorf borough. Maier says, “I designed the building’s lobby and sample apartment using furniture, textiles and accessories drawn from our home collection. I also hand-picked the wall colours, flooring, cabinetry, appliances and artwork to fully realise my vision for each space.” Quiz Maier about his mentors or design heroes, and he cites Italian Renaissance master Andrea Palladio, who he describes an “an inspiration for most of my life.” Palladio’s Four Books of Architecture has been studied for hundreds of years by architects—including
Maier’s father. “He began as a craftsman—a stonecutter—and immersed himself in study of classical architecture. He then applied his craft to the creation of innovative design. So he combined artisanship with artistry in a way that speaks to me. His insistence of functionality, in particular, has been very inspirational in my work,” reveals Maier. I ask if he thinks, as art dealer David Zwirner does, that the Old Masters and tradition are about to return. “I wouldn’t say we’re in a second Renaissance just yet—the art world and market are clearly still enthralled with contemporary art. But I do believe that the Old Masters and classical art are undervalued and due for a comeback. Lucas Cranach and Hans Holbein, both German Renaissance artists, have long been two of my favourites. More broadly, I believe that handmade objects and traditional artisanal craftsmanship will become increasingly valued as luxuries, as skilled artisans become a rarer breed.” As for Bottega Veneta’s home furnishings, they’ve been developed to be timeless. “The evolution of our home collection has been purposefully gradual and deliberate, as we have never been interested in doing anything flashy or of-the-moment,” says Maier. “Each piece is versatile, functional and beautifully crafted to last a lifetime.” Which is just how 5 Via Borgospesso feels in Milan. Maier’s mix of classical and contemporary in such an historic setting feels like a next-gen luxury retail fairy tale. Any prince or princess who happens upon this space is sure to live happily ever after.
“We have never been interested in doing anything flashy or ofthe-moment; each piece is versatile, functional, and beautifully crafted to last a lifetime”
Sitting pretty (From left) Bottega Veneta collaborated with furniture maker Poltrona Frau to create its Meta armchair in 2008; The chair’s curved lines were a departure from the brand’s typical style
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life | design
Shapes and Patterns Create an artful conversation with pieces of furniture in all types of geometric design
geometric stance luxe dining Destined to become the focal point of your dining space, the Curzon Dining Table from Dexterton masterfully melds formidable form with functionality.
Inspired by Indonesian mosaics, the Ankara Truffle Frame Chair and Leather Cushion from Crate & Barrel has an eye-catching design seen from every angle.
toast of the town
Put a spin on your celebratory toasts with these Colour Wine Glasses by Hay Denmark. Available at Casabella.
lounging around This unique chaise longue features a mattress made of the palest pink natural saddle leather contrasted with deep brown leather at the foot and headrest, all supplied directly by Louis Vuitton tannery. Available at Furnitalia.
light sticks The modern and unique design of Vibia’s Match lighting makes it the perfect solution for providing contemporary lighting over dining tables, worktops, or other kitchen surfaces. Available at Kuysen.
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photosynthesis Calligaris’ POM POM floor lamp by Matteo Cibic has a unique design inspired by exotic plant species. Available at Furnitalia, it has a metal frame and white acid-etched blown glass shades.
Pieces of you Designed by Philippe Bouix for Roche Bobois, Facettes is a series of polygonal mirrors placed in the form of a mosaic pattern.
bookworm The Weston bookcase from Ethan Allen is an upscale functional series of storage and display cabinets that features glass shelving and elaborate, graphicpatterned door grilles with cathedral walnut veneered door panels surrounded by raised framed moldings.
the perfect cup Introducing the first built-in Wolf Coffee System that truly lets you call your own shots. Make professional-quality brewed coffee, espresso, cappuccino, latte and macchiato in the comforts of your own home. Available at Focus Global Inc.
Rare comfort This three-seater Rivera sofa from Minnoti designed by Rodolfo Dordoni has back and arms united in a broad embrace based in elegant and simple metal tube. Available at Living Innovations.
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Top of the Line B&B Italia Chairman and CEO Giorgio Busnelli shares with Astra C Alegre how new technology and design innovation makes the brand one of the top Italian furniture companies today
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design | LIFE
all in the family B&B Italia Chairman and CEO Giorgio Busnelli; (opposite) B&B Italia showroom
ver since the company opened in 1966, B&B Italia has been known for its modern and avantgarde furniture. It is almost hard to believe that a simple rubber duck would lead its founder Piero Ambrogio Busnelli to develop a new technology for a brand that would enable him to become an important player in the high-end market, but that is precisely what happened. His son, current B&B Italia Chairman and CEO Giorgio Busnelli relates, “In 1964, my dad went to a fair in London. He saw this rubber duck made of polyurethane. It was soft, and that impressed him. He researched and developed this technology whereby architects designed a chair in a different way. Using a mould, the chair came out rounded. That wasn’t possible before with the old technology.” The brand is recognised for its sofa, which started it all, and has since branched into lamps and kitchen items. “We do everything—tables, chairs, beds, library furniture,” Busnelli says. And the latest, he adds, is for wardrobes, an innovative solution for storing clothes called the Backstage. In 1975, the company launched Maxalto, a line of furniture best described as the new classic as coordinated by Antonio Citterio. Busnelli says, “Maxalto has six collections and it is a fully integrated collection. The collection in 1985 can be integrated to what we introduce now.” One of B&B Italia’s great assets is its research and development centre. Busnelli states that three per cent of their turnover is spent here, where products are carefully studied and discussed by the company’s architects and designers. “We know the market. We explain to them the needs of the market, and they interpret the needs. For example, we tell them, ‘We like the shape but the base is a little vintage.’ Based on this feedback, they all work together to come up with an improved product,” he explains. Busnelli loves being at the centre, developing and working on future products. According to Busnelli, he considers the Up series, originally designed
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in 1969 by Gaetano Pesce, as their most iconic products. A total of seven-seat pieces of different shapes and sizes make up the series. Other notable B&B Italia furniture are the Le Bambole of Mario Bellini, the Moon System by Zaha Hadid, and all the Tobi-Ishi. “That is for sure to be iconic,” he declares. “The table can be done in concrete or marble, designed by Edward Barber and Jay Osgerby. That was the first project they did for us. It’s a fantastic product because it’s an innovative way to make a table.” “Everything needs to be easily connected and displayed together,” Busnelli explains. “That’s an important thing, to create a precise lifestyle.” For him, furniture is not like fashion, which changes every year. “We don’t follow trends, but we do constantly upgrade our furniture. We add detail, we add stitching. All our products, slowly, get new upgrades.” Several B&B Italia and Maxalto collections got new upgrades based on research and market preferences. A few of the collections that were launched during the most recent Salone de Mobile were Husk by Patricia Urquiola, Michel Club and Michel Effe by Antonio Citterio, and Papilio Shell by Naoto Fukasawa. Each one is based on an existing collection and is further refined to meet the needs of the discriminating market. B&B Italia truly is a brand that represents creativity, innovation and quality. It has established itself as world-class Italian furniture brand that goes beyond the market’s expectation.
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LIFE | design
take a plunge An impressive view of Kaldewei GmbH & Co’s 750-square-metre booth at ISH 2015 in Frankfurt; The sculptural Meisterstück Emerso washstand and bathtub; The designer Arik Levy
Bathing Beauty ll eyes were on the Kaldewei booth at ISH 2015, the world’s leading and most lavish trade fair for world-class bathroom designs. A pioneer in the industry, Franz Kaldewei GmbH & Co is best known for its signature Kaldewei steel enamel 3.5 mm, a perfect fusion of robust steel and tough glass. The brand creates bath and shower trays of such fine quality and durability that these products come with a 30-year guarantee.
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The German brand’s stunning 750-square-metre booth (the biggest in the company’s nearly 100-year history) was unveiled by its young and dynamic president and CEO, fourth generation family member Franz Kaldewei. The booth received raves reviews from architects, designers, and the international press, at the show’s official opening. Inspired by the power of light, the stunning booth design, devoid of right angles and punctuated by rays of light, allowed visitors to view Kaldewei’s latest collections from unique perspectives, and experience the products in a fully sensory way. philippine tatler . august 2015
PHOTOS: Kaldewei / BECKER LACOUR - Olaf Becker
For ISH 2015 in Frankfurt, Kaldewei collaborated with the acclaimed industrial designer Arik Levy to create the Meisterstück Emerso collection, writes Mia Borromeo
Amongst the lineup of exciting innovations for the bath introduced by Kaldewei at ISH 2015, the most eagerly anticipated was perhaps the Meisterstück Emerso by celebrated designer Arik Levy, who is known throughout the world for his outstanding product designs and impressive artistic installations. The multiawarded Paris-based industrial designer spoke to Philippine Tatler about his unique collaboration—his first ever bathroom collection—with Kaldewei. What was the inspiration for your Meisterstücke collection for Kaldewei? The collection, comprising a bathtub and matching washstand, has a clear sculptural intention, whereby ergonomics and user comfort were also priorities. The design concept is inspired by the movement of water—not of watching water, but rather being in it. The eye roams beyond the rim of the bathtub which seems to move fluidly from philippine tatler . august 2015
one shape into another. If one follows the shape with one’s hand or eyes, one has the feeling of immersion, as in a bathtub. Could you tell us more about this unique collaboration with the brand? Kaldewei is a great partner. The Meisterstücke is a shared project. We took the time that we needed and mutually challenged each other because creating a new product in an existing production is highly complex. The Meisterstück Emerso collection is the result of many minds focusing their attention on one thing. How was the process of working with Kaldewei steel enamel for this collection? Compared with other materials with which I work, steel enamel is more durable. The
With its head office in Ahlen, Germany, Kaldewei was founded in 1918 by Franz Kaldewei
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intimate refuge With its round shoulder, the shape of the Ellipso Duo Oval by Kaldewei offers a great sense of comfort for a relaxing bath alone or with a partner.
surface is non-porous, and it is sustainability epitomised. Kaldewei steel enamel shows what it takes to produce the ideal surface: it possesses fantastic quality, it is extremely hygienic, easy to clean, and exceptionally robust. The difficulty lies in creating a surface of steel enamel that is curved in on itself. Kaldewei does this perfectly. That is why I got exactly what I needed from Kaldewei for my work on Meisterstücke: a surface that captures light—because the upper edge of the tub shape reads the light in a very special way. There is no symmetry, so the shape never becomes boring.
transitions is a huge challenge. As a designer it is difficult to produce something that can be made with steel enamel and which simultaneously causes the material to do new things. For the new Kaldewei Meisterstücke, we shaped the steel to the limits of the technically feasible, thus creating a new and positive tension. The result is simply extraordinary.
The Kaldewei Meisterstück Emerso is an extraordinary project because both the artistic and technical aspects were sustained by the pursuit of perfection
How did your design influence the manufacturing process in developing the Meisterstücke? Designing these complex shapes and
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What makes this collaboration between you and Kaldewei a success? “No companies”—that was the route we chose for the collection. From an artist’s point of view, however, I knew it had to be possible to produce it. The Kaldawei Meisterstück Emerso is an extraordinary project because both the artistic and technical aspects were sustained by the pursuit of perfection. philippine tatler . august 2015
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LIFE | design spotlight
To Honour a Memory
photos from cassina; the paulownia tree photo by patrick moser, courtesy of fondation le corbusier
For the 50th anniversary of the LC Collection and the 50 years since Le Corbusier passed away, Cassina pays tribute to the great architect by giving the historic Villa “Le Lac� Paulownia tree new life, writes Cristina Morales
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he villa “le lac” was constructed in 1923-25 from plans drawn up by Le Corbusier (the pseudonym of the great architect Charles-Édouard JeanneretGris) and his cousin Pierre Jeanneret. Built for the influential architect’s parents on the shores of Lake Geneva in Switzerland, the small detached house is celebrated in architectural history. Today, Villa “Le Lac” is touted as a true example of the modern architecture movement that Le Corbusier is credited for spearheading. Le Corbusier once wrote that a house is a machine for living in (“Une maison est une machine-à-habiter”). The Villa “Le Lac” is a perfect illustration of that philosophy, bearing three of Le Corbusier’s Five Points of Architecture: a garden patio, ribbon windows, and a free floor plan. (The other two points are the use of columns and a tree façade). Each detail of the house has drawn praise from the design and architecture circles. The Paulownia tree planted in 1924 on the garden terrace is no exception. Chosen by Le Corbusier for its long branches, the tree was considered by many architects as the “sacred tree” of the villa. Cassina has a long history with Le Corbusier, dating back to 1964. That was when the furniture manufacturing company signed the contract to start producing the first four models by Le Corbusier, Jeanneret, and Charlotte Perriand, marking the beginning of the Cassina I Maestri with the LC Collection. To this day, the brand is the only authorised company to produce designs by Le Corbusier. In 2013 Cassina learnt that the iconic Paulownia tree had to be removed due to an incurable disease. So it assisted with the tree’s felling and subsequent transfer to its carpentry workshop in Meda, Italy. This year marks the golden death anniversary of Le Corbusier, as well as the 50th anniversary of the LC Collection. To mark this milestone, Cassina, with the support of the Fondation Le Corbusier, asked the artist and designer Jaime Hayon to honour the great architect by creating a set of accessories using the wood from the Villa “Le Lac” Paulownia tree. Hayon designed three decorative objects which will be produced using all healthy parts of the tree, down to the very last piece of wood. While poetically referencing the beauty of the ephemeral, the objects in the Villa “Le Lac” Paulownia collection are also functional. The Bird is a sculpture that acts as a letter philippine tatler . august 2015
holder, thanks to a small slit in its beak and down the curve of its back. The Bird House holds small objects (a mobile phone, coins, etc) both inside the structure and on a small raised circular pedestal. It also has a wooden key hook on the outer side. The Ledge is a swing-shaped shelf fastened to the wall with natural saddle leather strings. The project was a great challenge because of the material. Though light and versatile, Paulownia wood is also known for its lack of rigidity and difficulty to work with. The objects have been intentionally left natural, preserved with just a light oil treatment, to enhance the warmth of this original piece of Le Corbusier history. “I was honoured to be given the task to create new objects from the Villa ‘Le Lac’ tree and honour the great Le Corbusier,” says Hayon. “I thought about who would most miss the beautiful Paulownia standing on the banks of Lake Geneva. I thought about birds singing amidst the sound of leaves in the wind, a little home for those birds, and kids laughing joyously while swinging from the branches. I let this spirit guide me in creating the three objects which speak the poetic nature of the tree, evoking new life.”
a new leaf (From top) The young Paulownia tree at the end of a path in Villa “Le Lac;” The Birdhouse by Jaime Hayon; Le Corbusier; The Bird by Jaime Hayon; (opposite) LC1 Outdoor chair from the LC Collection (Le Corbusier, Jeanneret, Perriand)
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LIFE | design
A HOME FOR THE HEART With assistance from Ethan Allen’s bridal registry, couples are able to marry their individual styles
Luxurious Options Wedding guests no longer have to ponder on what makes a gift worth giving. MJ Jose chronicles the brief history of the bridal registry in relation to Ethan Allen’s new venture hoosing the right wedding gift is easier said than done as this wellmeaning gesture is usually twinned with anxiety. What is the appropriate gift? What if there are 10 others of the same gift? Will the newlyweds have any use for it? Fortunately, more and more engaged couples are availing themselves of bridal registry services, which guarantee the wedding guests of hassle-free selection of gifts. A bridal registry is a retail store or website-provided service designed to assist an engaged couple in selecting preferred gift options to be presented to wedding attendees upon inquiry. The database is updated to reflect changes with every purchase, which
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prevents the risk of giving the newlyweds duplicate or unneeded gifts. The concept was first introduced by Marshall Field’s—now Macy’s—in 1924 as a way to provide couples with china, silver, and crystal pattern selections that would serve as possible wedding gift ideas to their invited guests. Marshall Field’s initiative caught on, and other retail stores were quick to embrace this new idea. They made notable adjustments to meet new demands, and helped shape the concept of the bridal registry as it would be known in society today. Now, couples enjoy access to what is referred to as the Universal Registry, which comprises several retail stores. Because it is not tied to just one retailer, this online service allows shoppers to select items from different stores and file them under a single registry. philippine tatler . august 2015
With the launch of its bridal registry services, Ethan Allen looks to become recognised as the premium choice to suit distinct, luxurious tastes. Due to the high quality and superior craftsmanship, Ethan Allen items are wise investment pieces as they are guaranteed to last for generations. From its humble beginnings as a housewares manufacturer in 1932, Ethan Allen has grown in leaps and bounds as a brand, and now enjoys its status as one of the prime authorities in the furnishing industry. The brand has successfully incorporated its core design philosophy— Classic Design. Modern Perspective®—into on-trend designs bolstered with a muchdesired durability that allows the finished products to stand the test of time. Aside from its dedication to quality craftsmanship and style sensibility, Ethan Allen also recognises the significance of catering to a customer’s individual preferences. “The Next Classics” campaign, for example, presents the customer with a portfolio of 600 design options that include everything from furnishings and artworks to decorative pieces and light sources. Ethan Allen also offers an extensive Custom Order Program for those who are looking to conceptualise a piece highly specific to their needs. Through this program, a customer philippine tatler . august 2015
will be able to mix and match design sensibilities by making their own selections with regards to colours, patterns, and styles. All these are platforms designed to promote originality in conjunction with individual tastes. What sets Ethan Allen apart is its commitment to the importance of individual customer preference as evidenced by its bridal registry service. The Ethan Allen Bridal Registry aims to cater to the couple’s needs not only by allowing them to select gift options from the store merchandise, but also by marrying their individual tastes to create a design scheme that is tailor-made to fit their vision of an ideal home. To add to the appeal of this new platform, the couple will also be able to seek the advice of experts by availing of Ethan Allen’s trademark complimentary design service. Marketed to serve as a ticket to a timesaving, stress-free means of wedding gift acquisition, the Ethan Allen brand is poised to find heart in its bridal registry service, which marries the core of its design philosophies with its commitment to customer happiness. Interested parties are required to make a personal appearance at Ethan Allen Home Interiors along Pioneer Street corner Reliance, Mandaluyong City.
This Wilder Wing Chair is characterised by a classic yet colourful print
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LIFE | real estate
Luxury for a Song
London calling (From top) River Tower is set to become one of Western Europe’s tallest residential projects; The 77 apartments will boast views over the River Thames
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f the name Dalian Wanda is starting to ring more bells these days, it might be because the Mainland Chinese conglomerate has been acquiring a trophy-load of prime branded labels, such as superyachtmaker Sunseeker (the craft of choice for James Bond and Li Ka-shing) in 2013. The group, chaired by Wang Jianlin—currently Asia’s richest man, with a net worth estimated at about US$38 billion—is also muscling in on the London property scene. From geopolitics to the geo-propertied, the new age of 21stcentury pioneers is upon us—and it’s evolving at breakneck speed. Witness Wanda One, the UK subsidiary of China’s leading real estate developer, now releasing its first apartments in River Tower at the landmark One Nine Elms regeneration site in London, stretching along the Thames between Vauxhall and Battersea. The tower is the second of its kind and connects to a fivestar hotel (Wanda’s first outside China) that the developer has been constructing on the same site. Following the successful launch of City Tower in 2014, the 161-metre River Tower has been designed by worldrenowned architectural practice Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates and boasts 103 private apartments, ranging from one-bedroom flats to deluxe penthouse duplexes. Prices will start from US$2 million. The first release comprises 77 exclusive one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments, with interiors by United Design Partnership. Those living in River Tower benefit from access to the private residents’ lounge on the 19th floor as well as a residents’ observation deck on the 42nd. In addition, all residents will have full access to the Wanda Vista Hotel London’s facilities, including the fully equipped gym, spa, swimming pool, and numerous restaurants and bars. They will also be able to order room service to their apartments, and philippine tatler . august 2015
TEXT: STEPHEN SHORT
Chinese developer Dalian Wanda debuts its swanky River Tower apartments in London— complete with plush karaoke bar
have exclusive access to their own concierge and butler service. “The apartments have a direct link to the hotel—no other group has done this yet in London,” says Tim Gawthorn, sales and marketing director at Wanda One (UK). “This is an important milestone for Wanda as we prepare to launch the second phase of the One Nine Elms development,” he adds. “We recognise that residents at One Nine Elms demand five-star service as part of their lifestyle choice, and have therefore worked closely with the Wanda Vista Hotel London to ensure that all those living in this latest phase can enjoy the added extras this development has to offer.” In a recent report, Mayfair estate agent Wetherell explains that it is getting harder to distinguish between hotels and apartments in these buildings, with the design and experience merging into one. “Branded residences are beginning to penetrate the market,” says managing director Peter Wetherell. “These are stunning properties attached to some of London’s highest-profile redevelopments. They offer the ultimate in synergy—ultra-luxury hotels, with an additional wing or section of private sale or serviced apartments.” The amenities at River Tower include a luxury karaoke bar—a signature Wanda product—open to hotel guests and residents, and for private hire. It’s little wonder, perhaps, given Wang’s penchant for entertainment.
His group, which also owns US cinema chain AMC, has plans to open an amusement park in Mainland China to rival Disneyland and Universal Studios, and holds a 20 per cent stake in Spanish football club Atlético Madrid, which the group bought for US$52 million in January. The following month, it bought Swiss sports marketing firm Infront Sports & Media for US$1.9 billion, which holds broadcasting rights to global sporting events such as football’s World Cup. Centrally located, the One Nine Elms development enjoys a variety of direct national and international transport links, connecting residents to the West End in 10 minutes, Canary Wharf in 24 minutes, City Airport in 36 minutes and Heathrow Airport in 54 minutes. The landmark development, which will soon become one of Western Europe’s tallest residential projects, is due for completion in 2018. onenineelms.com
US$14 million
US$37.5 million
city slickers Residents will have full access to the Wanda Vista Hotel London facilities and will be able to order room service to their apartments
US$42.7 million
benbow house
NEO BANKSIDE
THE CHILTERNS
bankside
southbank
marylebone
This penthouse enjoys dramatic views of the River Thames, with three floors spread over 4,600sqft. Features include floor-toceiling windows, a galleried library and a wood-panelled study. Bragging rights? It’s the largest penthouse currently available in London SE1. pastor-realestate.com
These stunning Rogers Stirk Harbour + Partners-designed duplex penthouses start from 3,200sqft. They are situated next to the Tate Modern, and boast views across the river and the iconic London skyline. Bragging rights? St Paul’s is always in sight. neobankside.com
Called the “One Hyde Park” of W1, The Chilterns penthouse suites are sublime, in particular the 7,500sqft duplex atop the building, comprising 2,500sqft of rooftop gardens. Bragging rights? Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie were spotted eyeing up the property last year. thechilternsw1.com
philippine tatler . august 2015
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LIFE | TRAVEL
New Looks From Mozambique to London, some of the world’s most luxurious hotels reopen their doors—just in time for a late summer holiday
Island Adventure Mozambique Luxe safari operator AndBeyond opens its latest lodge, AndBeyond Benguerra Island, at Mozambique’s Bazaruto archipelago, an underappreciated gem that’s set to become a favourite among beach destinations. Formerly known as Benguerra Lodge, the stunning property opened in June after nearly a year of rebuilding and renovations. Its new look features Afro-Portugese design elements unique to the region, with combinations such as thatched roofs and terracotta tiles. Only accessible via a helicopter ride from Vilankulo Airport, the property consists of 10 casinhas, two cabanas and one three-bedroom casa, each boasting a private plunge pool. Guests can enjoy plenty of outdoor activities, including horseback riding, fishing and island hopping. andbeyond.com/benguerra-island
just the two of us tuscany If you’re looking for a romantic summer getaway, Lightfoot Travel has got you sorted with a retreat to the tiny town of Lajatico, nestled in the rolling hills of the Tuscan countryside. The holiday package includes a three-night stay at a beautifully restored farmhouse on the 800-year-old wine estate Castiglion del Bosco; it’s located at the centre of the Val d’Orcia, a Unesco World Heritage Site. Opera singer Andrea Bocelli, who hails from Lajatico, also frequently performs at the area’s striking open-air amphitheatre, the Teatro del Silenzio. lightfoottravel.com
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philippine tatler . august 2015
Art Aficionados Hanoi New property Apricot Hotel opens in Vietnam’s capital this summer, showcasing more than 600 works by renowned local painters Stay The boutique Apricot Hotel features original artworks that fill its rooms and hallways, and boasts stunning views of Hoan Kiem Lake. Its best room is the 860-square-foot Masterpiece Suite. apricothotels.com
Wild Beauty Zimbabwe Wilderness Safaris introduces its plush eight-tent Linkwasha Camp. Located on the Linkwasha Concession in the southeastern part of Hwange National Park, it boasts excellent wildlife viewing during the winter and summer game viewing at the nearby Ngamo Plains. After soaking up the nature and viewing some of the exotic species in the area—there are more than 100 to spot—guests can retreat to the camp to enjoy the pool area, winter lounge and library. The camp also features a family tent and a variety of multilevel decks with stunning views. wilderness-safaris.com
Royal Treatment London One of London’s finest hotels, The Lanesborough reopened on 1 July after extensive renovations, which saw a complete overhaul of the property’s 93 guest rooms, 43 suites and its publicly accessible areas. The largest and grandest room is The Royal Suite, which comprises seven bedrooms. The property closed in December 2013 to be revamped by renowned interior design studio Alberto Pinto; the firm added plenty of elegant touches while simultaneously preserving the building’s status as a Regency heritage landmark. The hotel’s restaurant, Céleste, also reopens with a new Regency-inspired design and executive chef Florian Favario at the helm, who has benefitted from the tutelage of one of the best-known chefs in Paris, Eric Frechon. lanesborough.com
philippine tatler . august 2015
Eat Apricot Hotel’s signature restaurants—L’Artiste and Palette—serve up Southeast Asian classics. L’Artiste features an open kitchen, with most of its dishes made to order. relax Pay a visit to the hotel’s Spa L’Art, which offers a diverse range of treatments including facials, massages and comprehensive wellness packages. Its rooftop fitness centre is also worth a look, with floor-to-ceiling glass walls providing panoramic views of the city. Explore If you’re in the mood for even more art, the Vietnam National Museum of Fine Arts is a short walk away. It showcases a range of artworks from various historical periods, including additional pieces by artists highlighted in the hotel’s collection, such as VietnameseFrench painter Mai Thu.
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the last word
Istanbul
“I love collecting china and porcelain, and Iznik and Seljuk pottery is some of the most beautiful. I use it all the time when I’m entertaining, from small family brunches during the summer to bigger dinners”
The ceiling of the Blue Mosque
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visited istanbul for the first time when I was a university student, and have been back several times since. It’s a beautiful, ancient city with an incredible history and culture, from the sultans and pashas to the mix of old and modern architecture. My ideal day in Istanbul starts at the Topkapi Palace, which was the primary residence of the Ottoman sultans for about 400 years. I love seeing how Turkish art and its different architectural styles evolved over time. It’s an incredibly inspiring place for me as a designer— the colours and graphics in the tilework, textiles and architecture have all found their way into our collections through the years. For lunch, I’d stop off at Konyali, a restaurant at the palace that overlooks the Bosphorus, and order an assortment of mezes—small plates of traditional Turkish food. After that, I would head to the Blue Mosque. A few years ago, we tried to recreate the beautifully faded quality of the traditional Iznik tiles, which had withstood centuries of wind and sun in the Bosphorus, for one of our print patterns. In the late afternoon, I’d go to the Grand Bazaar, one of the most exciting shopping experiences ever. It’s one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world, with 61 streets and more than 3,000 shops with jewellery, textiles, pottery, glazed tiles, bronze, leather, and carpets. I love wandering the streets and side alleys, stopping at the stalls and stepping into market after market. One bazaar highlight is visiting my friend, the Turkish jewellery designer Sevan Biçakçi, at his shop. His signature technique is reverse intaglio, which allows him to craft scenic views—such as tiny replicas of the Blue Mosque or Scheherazade’s Palace—inside a gemstone. I have a Sevan ring with a small Hagia Sophia replica inside a stone, and I wear it every day as a reminder of Istanbul. I’d finish the day with dinner with my Turkish business partner—I love to travel by boat to his home on the Asian side of the Bosphorus as the sun is setting. The city lights are just so beautiful against the night sky. philippine tatler . august 2015
image: noa griffel
Celebrated US fashion designer Tory Burch shares her recommendations for Istanbul, a city that has inspired a number of her collections
cartier.com Rustan Makati • Rustan Shangri-La • Newport Resorts World
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