Durrah issue 33

volume 09 Issue 01 AUTUMN 2016

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Contents Editorial Editor in Chief Khalid Ahmed Juman Features Editor Astrid Sullivan Editorial Assistant Ahmed Khunji Art Art Director Nils Albrechtsen Marketing and Sales Media Sales Director Hussain Al Zaimoor Production Production Support Venkatesan J. S

Volume 09 Issue 01 Autumn 2016 014 First Impression Letter from the Editor

016 Exquisite Design A look at Durrat Marina

022 Legacy of Success Interview with Mohamed Al Zain

026 Premium Experience Interview with GM of National Motor Company

030 Joyful Spirit Perlée Collection from Van Cleef & Arpels

034 Visible Invisibility 10 Years of Hublot’s All Black concept

042 Passion for Performance Interview with Breitling’s Vice President

046 Olympic Precision Official Olympic Timekeeper Omega

050 Incredible Innovation Luxury timepieces for men

058 Elegance and Style Luxury timepieces for women

060 Signature Scent Boutique Exclusives by Kilian

064 World of Beauty Interview with José Eisenberg

068 A Bright Future Diyar Al Muharraq developments

072 Prestigious Properties Kooheji and Royal Ambassador

076 Illustrious Luxury Hand made fabrics by Rubelli

080 History and Heritage Interview with Venini

086 Artistic Perfumery The Murano Art Collection from the Merchant of Venice

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090 Bold and Brilliant Artist Mohammed Melehi

IT support Digital Manager Hussain Al Anjawi

DURRAH LUXURY MAGAZINE PO Box 13990, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain T. +973 77077777 F. +973 17226555

094 Impeccable Craftsmanship A selection of designer bags

100 Nautical Marvel Royal Caribbean’s Harmony of the Seas

volume 09 Issue 01 AUTUMN 2016

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104 Unique Vision Interview with Artist Khalid Shahin

108 Embellished Beauty Designer Krikor Jabotian

114 Elegant Interiors Boutique openings around the world

128 Cultural Haven Discovering the beauty of Venice

134 Enchanting Escapes

Cover Image 10 Years of All Black

Leading international hotels

146 Radiance and Relaxation Leading international spas

154 Decadent Delights Top dining locations

166 Bon Appetite Recipes from Bushido

172 Inspiring and DynamiC Latest luxury automobiles

Durrah is a premium quarterly English-language luxury lifestyle magazine, covering topics including VIP interviews, fashion, yachting, architecture, art and culture, jewellery and travel, Durrah’s quality is unsurpassed. Durrah, in Arabic, translates to ‘Pearl’, and focuses on luxury that is based on substance and lifestyle with intellect, rather than excess. On contemporary living that evolves from deepset roots, rather than globalization, ensuring an inherently authentic flavour for a globally travelled audience. With a core focus on the colourful fusion of both traditional and modern elements that make up the Arabian identity, Durrah aims to promote and preserve all of the elements that make the Arabian Gulf so unique. Durrah adopts international standards, however also remains closely connected to Middle Eastern heritage, culture and achievements, all of which are prominently featured.

184 Must Haves Men Luxury wish list for men

190 Must Haves Women Luxury wish list for women

196 Greatest of All Time The latest luxury automobiles

ISSN 2210-1322

200 Final Pearl Events in the Kingdom

DURRAHMAGAZINE

www.durrah.bh e.mail: info@durrah.bh

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Welcome

First Impression A word from the editor-in-chief

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ne of the many great things about living in Bahrain is watching the Kingdom constantly grow and develop – in every aspect. In response to this expansion, we have seen a number of exciting new developments pave the way for the future, with a sense of luxury and style. We open the issue by taking a look at projects from three of the key residential developers to watch, including Durrat Marina, Diyar Al Muharraq, and Kooheji in partnership with Royal Ambassador. Innovation is the key to success, and we look forward to what further developments lay in store for us!

Venice is also in the spotlight this issue, as we take a trip to one of Italy’s most celebrated locations and relish in all that is has to offer. From culture and art, to food and fashion, Venice has proved to be one of the most unique locations in the world. Read our interview with legend Alessandro Mendini and his work with Murano glassmakers Venini, a profile on luxury fabric makers Rubelli, as well as our Merchant of Venice article covering the famous glassmaking and perfume of the region. You can find the best tips and all you need to know about where to stay, dine, and

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what to see on your trip to the city in our hotel and travel section.

This year we were saddened to learn of the passing of extraordinary athlete Muhammad Ali, so in celebration of his life achievements we have taken a look at renowned publication ‘Greatest of All Time: A Tribute to Muhammad Ali’ – otherwise known as GOAT. Ali was not only an Olympic professional boxer, but also an inspiration through his work as an impassioned advocate of social justice.

Other highlights this issue include articles covering Omega – the official Olympic timekeepers, a look at what BMW has in store for the next 100 years, and interviews with incredible artists Khalid Shahin and Mohammed Melehi.

We promise you won’t be disappointed!

Khalid Ahmed Juman Editor in Chief

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Up Close and Personal

Exquisite Design

Durrat Marina is a sophisticated, state-of-the-art marina, distinguished as one of the first Middle East’s mixed-use marina development. Hailed as the jewel of the prestigious Durrat Khaleej Al Bahrain, Durrat Marina is considered as one of the grandest and most remarkable real estate projects in the gulf. Durrah takes a closer exclusive look at this luxurious development and speaks with CEO Waleed Saffy.

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urrat Marina is a sophisticated, stateof-the-art marina, distinguished as the Middles East’s first mixed-use marina development. Hailed as the jewel of Durrat Khaleej Al Bahrain, Durrat Marina is one of the grandest real estate projects in the gulf valued at US$1.3Billion. It extends through 720,000 square meter area of premier residential and leisure facilities. Durrat Marina consists of three interconnected islands which are linked with the resort island city via a network of bridges for accessibility. Durrat Marina’s first island (Island A) is approximately 240,000sqm, whilst Island B & C are approximately 118,000 sqm respectively. The project covers a total land area of 477,000 sqm, and a total land and sea area of around 600,000 sqm.

The main entrance of the Marina is a gateway to an abundant range of leisure facilities and retail establishments, all situated along the sea front.

This opens up to exquisite views of open seas and tranquil lagoons. The Marina has the capacity to berth up to around 400 boats from 10m to 50m super yachts.

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The area promises to be a hub for boating and water sports such as diving and jetskiing.

To bring this closer to home, Durrat Marina will hold up to 4,000 luxury freehold apartments as well as waterfront, townhouses, exquisitely designed to the highest standards of quality. Other amenities on site include private swimming pools and dedicated parking facilities; capped off by breath taking views from every perspective.

Durrat Marina is being developed in multiple overlapping, but distinct, phases. Though reclamation has already taken place for upcoming phases, it will not witness heavy development until after the completion of phase 1. Infrastructure design for all the project phases is completed, and has been fully done for phase 1 while implementation for phase 2 is well underway.

The first phase, which has been already launched to the public, has captured a great deal of interest. This phase includes an exclusive set of sea-facing villas on the main island, which have completely sold out, as well as residential apartment blocks, with only a few

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Up Close and Personal

apartment units left, a promenade with cafes and retail outlets, and a dedicated marina managed by the Durrat Marina Yacht Club and operated by Portmarine, one of the leading marine companies in Bahrain, who also run the largest water sports center in the Kingdom. In line with Durrat Marina’s vision, Portmarine has set a new standard of service to boaters on the island. Both villas and residential blocks in this phase enjoy both marina bay and sea views. With a built-up area of 250-350 sqm and 4 bedrooms, the villas are built on plots facing the water, providing owners the ability to have their own jetty and access to the sea.

The apartments, called Marina Breeze, Marina Residences, and the 360 Tower, vary from studio apartments, 2-3 bedroom and penthouses built in contemporary style. The residences have been designed on podium level, offering beautiful garden areas, swimming pools, terraces mini-gyms and open areas, all with private access for residents.

Planned to be the “downtown” area of Durrat Marina, and stretching along a 200 metre walkway is the promenade, which will host numerous cafes and restaurants, high end boutiques and a wide range of leisure activities. The first phase of development is planned to serve as a destination where families can enjoy a day alongside the serene waters of the Durrat Marina Yacht Club. The two storey retail strip comprises of 44 outlets with a total built-up area of

approximately 5,200 square metres (3,800 sqm of retail space and 1,400 sqm of terrace space.) The retail is being developed so that almost every outlet will be able to enjoy terrace space with views of the marina. The design of this retail strip mirrors a youthful simplicity; distinguished by neutral colors that create a chic ambience, where good food, good company, and a vibrant environment are the focus.

Leading Phase II of the Durrat Marina development, another set of waterfront villas is being constructed on the northern frontage of the island. 40 plots have been designed, ranging in size from 309 to 325 square metres.

A choice of two villa floor plans each offer extensive living areas, family room, kitchens and guest toilet, while on the first floor there are three bedrooms, three bathrooms and dressing rooms and an extensive balcony terrace overlooking the water. On the second floor is the laundry and servant’s quarters and an extensive roof terrace.

Flowing from the from the ground floor living space, a landscaped garden terrace with private swimming pool offers superb indoor/outdoor living and looks out over a private floating boat dock that can accommodate a boat up to 8 metres in length.

Located at the center of Phase II of the promenade is the BD 30 million Layan development. Developed by Bin Faqeeh Real Estate Investment Company S.P.C, one of the major privately owned real estate developers in Bahrain, the first of its kind design features a private

water park fully encompassed within the grounds of a residential complex. The water park can be accessed through slides connected to balconies of a select number of exclusive apartments. More than 200 homes ranging from studios, one, two and three bedroom apartments, duplexes, penthouses and villas available on a freehold basis are being developed as part of the project. Each of the exclusive luxury villas come complete with a luxury yacht and a luxury car. A variety of activities including in-water movie theatres, in-water restaurants and wave pools with a surf area will be accessible to all residents.

Residents will also have access to 24-hour food service and housekeeping, health and fitness activities including squash courts, billiards rooms, gyms for ladies and men, a spa and health centre as well as play areas for toddlers.

Aside from the core residential aspect, the project also hosts a range of amenities with more than 300 sqm of gardens and greenery along with 38 restaurants, cafes and stores. The Layan concept is to create an idea family retreat in Bahrain, that would serve as the perfect weekend escape, and this is central to the overall aim of Durrat Marina.

On his part, Mr. Waleed Saffy, CEO of Durrat Marina said: “Through our participation in several exhibitions around the GCC, we not only indicate our support to the sector at a regional level, but also reiterate our contribution to our local economy, and to supporting growth sectors such as tourism, leisure,

The first phase, which has been already launched to the public, has captured a great deal of interest 01 Phase 1 development and the luxurious Marina 02 Living room of the show apartment in Marina Residence 1 03 The master bedroom 04 Dining room in the 2 bedroom apartment 05 Waleed Ishaq Saffy, CEO of Durrat Marina

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and retail through our integrated development. We are proud of our contribution towards this and of the progress we have made towards achieving our vision for a marina-based luxury development. With the current progress of Phase I of the project, we are turning our concept vision into a reality.�

Durrat Marina is jointly developed by Inovest and Durrat Khaleej Al Bahrain. Inovest holds a 60% stake in the project while Durrat Khaleej Al Bahrain holds 40% ownership. Durrat Marina presents a vast expanse of opportunities to a diverse range of investors. This exclusive and luxurious residential mega marina project offers a lucrative selection of upscale apartments, townhouses, penthouses and business lots open for businessmen who are seeking sound investment. There are also plots of land reserved for developers with brilliant business proposals.

Wide array of investment opportunities for industries like leisure and retail are as abundant as those of the hospitality, restaurant, sports, and tourism industries. The design and marketing branches of the business arena may equally benefit from the infinite possibilities the mix use dynamic marina may present. The project is thus equipped to offer a diversified yet pragmatic portfolio for potential investors. The land has been reclaimed and the first phase of the project is on the verge of completion. www.durrat-marina.com

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Up Close and Personal

open spaces and beachfronts make it immediately apparent that a particular project’s key offering is outdoor living.

A great property is designed to be environmentally sustainable, making use of the best available technology.

It sets itself apart, both in terms of aesthetics and functionality. The difference also lies in the way different components of the property are seamlessly integrated and how they related to other properties around it.

How did the vision for Durrat Marina first emerge?

Given Bahrain’s close relationship with the sea, even being named after it, it was natural to want to create something of beauty that would take advantage of the island’s unique inherent qualities. From there it was a matter of identifying that the country, and indeed the region, lacks a true mixed-use marina development, and that this would be appreciated by boating and water sports enthusiasts. Our objective with Durrat Marina was to create the ideal family weekend getaway where one could make the most of what the sea has to offer and also as permanent residency in the future.

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Interview with Waleed Saffy How would you describe the real estate sector in Bahrain?

There is no doubt that the region faces new economic realities, including lower oil prices and removals of subsidies, which will have an affect on real estate prices.

However, unlike some overly pessimistic predictions, I still expect the sector to thrive. Although things may slow down, confidence is still there so investors are more likely to position themselves for a recovery down the line rather than abandon the sector entirely.

The last 10 years have seen many ups and downs, peaking in 2008 when the worst global financial crisis of the century hit economies across the globe, and reaching a low in 2011. Excepting that one year from which the economy eventually bounced back, Bahrain’s realty managed to sustain the stresses relatively well. In fact, the last three years have witnessed a steady growth in new projects indicating strong investor confidence.

In a nutshell, Bahrain’s residential real estate sector has been more or less stable in recent years and this trend is expected to continue. As the government continues its strategy of attracting high-end tourists, the demand for luxury projects such as Durrat Marina will remain strong. Durrat Marina also taps into the large and currently underserved family market.

What do you believe sets a good property apart from a great one?

A good property will have all the amenities and features one expects from high quality real estate projects, including parking and recreational facilities, but a great real estate project sets itself apart by supporting its target customers’ specific lifestyle choices, creating communities of like06 minded individuals. For example, features such as large

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What is the main point of difference of Durrat Marina? In particular how does it differ to other locations in terms of technology, sustainability and environment?

Estimated at a cost of US$ 1.3 billion, Durrat Marina is the Middle East’s one of the first mixed-use marina development, and one of its grandest real estate projects.

It covers a total land area of 477,000 sqm and a total land and sea area of around 720,000 sqm, which make up three reclaimed islands interconnected via a network of bridges. Durrat Marina is unique in the vast variety of investment opportunities it presents. A lucrative selection of upscale apartments, townhouses, and penthouses offer a range of sound investments. There are also plots of land reserved for developers with attractive investment opportunities, and we look forward to welcoming unique ideas for the project’s leisure, retail, hospitality, restaurants, sports, and tourism components. The project is thus equipped to offer a diversified yet pragmatic portfolio for potential investors.

Can you tell us a bit about the way of life on Durrat Marina?

The development’s lifestyle is surrounding a prestigious marina that has the capacity to berth up to around 400 boats from 10m to 50m super yachts of which its first phase is already in operation. The residential component of the project is promoted by an active yet relaxed beachfront and waterfront living through a range of leisure facilities, food and beverage options, and shops situated along the seafront and a vibrant promenade. The availability of watersports, such as diving and jet skiing, encourages people to adopt a healthy outdoor lifestyle.

How does this project change the economy and property landscape of Bahrain?

As Bahrain’s leading marina-based luxury freehold development, we are offering something that is truly one of a kind. We are proud of our contribution towards

the local economy, supporting growth in sectors such as tourism, leisure, and retail through our integrated development and by GCC and regional developers.

What can you tell us about the current status of phase1 of Durrat Marina which will be completed very soon?

Infrastructure design for all the project phases is completed, and in the case of phase 1 almost completely implemented.

The first phase residential projects, which have been already launched to the public, has captured a great deal of interest. This phase includes an exclusive set of sea- facing villas on the main island which have completely sold out; residential apartment blocks in which only a few apartment units are left; a promenade with cafes and retail outlets; and a dedicated marina managed by the Durrat Marina Yacht Club and operated by Portmarine, one of the leading marine companies in Bahrain. Villas and residential blocks in this phase enjoy both marina bay and sea views. With a built-up area of 280 sqm and four bedrooms, the villas are built on plots facing the water, providing owners the opportunity to have their own jetty and access to the sea.

The residential developments Marina Residences, Marina Breeze and the 360 Tower developed by Durrat Marina and other reputable real estate companies such as Master Construction and Bin Faqeeh, include studio apartments, two to three bedroom apartments and modern penthouses. The residences have been designed at the podium level, offering beautiful garden areas, swimming pools, terraces mini-gyms and open areas, all with private access for residents. Stretching along a 200-metre walkway is the promenade, which will host numerous cafes and restaurants, high end boutiques and a wide range of amenities. The two storey retail strip comprises of 40 outlets with a total built-up area of approximately 5,200 square metres (3,800 sqm of retail space and 1,400 sqm of terrace space). The retail strip is being developed so that almost every outlet will be able to enjoy terrace space with views of the marina.

How do you see the project expanding over the next five or ten years?

We expect the project to follow the already laid down plans. Durrat Marina is being developed in multiple overlapping, but distinct, phases. The reclamation has already shaped up the development and now that phase 1 is nearing completion, we will begin looking at developing phase 2. Phase 2 of Durrat Marina will be led by another set of waterfront villas constructed on the western frontage facing the canal. 40 plots, with a size of approximately 300 to 315 sqm, have been designed. The outstanding feature is a landscaped garden terrace with a private swimming pool, which looks out over a private floating boat dock that can accommodate a boat up to 12 metres in length. At the centre of phase 2 of the main promenade is the BD 30 million residential/commercial Layan development by Bin Faqeeh. It features a private water park that can be fully accessed through slides connected to balconies of a select number of exclusive apartments. More than 200 apartments, including studios, one, two and three bedroom apartments, duplexes, penthouses and villas, are available on a freehold basis.

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Jewellery

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Legacy of Success

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Al Zain Jewellery is a family owned business with over 80 years experience and a number of luxury boutiques across the Middle East region. The love and care put into designing and meticulously crafting each piece is clear, as the business continues to grow and expand on an international level.

Durrah speaks with Mohamed Al Zain, Chief Executive Office of his family’s business to hear more.

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01-02 Delicate Bahraini pearls set with gold and beautiful diamonds

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03 Each piece is delicately handcrafted in the Al Zain factory located in Bahrain by specialized artisans 04 Mr. Mohammed Hassan and Mr. Nabil Al Zain coming together to continue the Al Zain legacy 05-06 Unique pieces of amber and natural pearl

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stablished in 1930, Al Zain Jewellery started off with humble beginnings, as one of the first pearl traders in the region to combine natural pearls and jewellery making. With deliberate dedication over the years, the family business has evolved into a leading luxury brand and has received a number of international awards.

Chief Executive Officer of the business, Mohamed Al Zain has a degree in diamond grading and is a certified gemologist, specialising in coloured stones and diamonds. He also holds a Bachelor Degree in Finance and is a member of the GCC Gold and Jewellery Association and a Board Member of Tamkeen’s Advisory Committee.

Each collection from Al Zain celebrates life’s finest and most special moments with exquisitely handcrafted jewellery to suit every occasion.

From the birth of a new born baby to the joy of a teenager’s graduation, and from engagements and weddings to celebrating life achievements.

Mohamed says, “At Al Zain we go by the life cycle, we have a collection that answers to every stage of life, and every season we introduce new pieces.”

With unrivalled expertise, Al Zain designs are crafted by exceptionally skilled artisans, who create stunning pieces with precious, semi-precious and exclusive stones – going to great lengths to seek out the highest class of gems from diamonds to emeralds to natural pearls. The business’ collection of prestigious international awards reaffirms their status as one of the finest jewellers in the region and worldwide. www.alzainjewellery.com

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Jewellery 07 The next generation Mr. Mohammed Al Zain CEO of Al Zain jewellery

How important is family legacy to Al Zain Jewellery?

We are the fourth generation of Al Zain family members to become part of the business. Our legacy is our backbone, our strength, and our foundation. We carry forward an innate passion and experiences of our forefathers, passed down to us through generations. Continuing the legacy of success, Al Zain’s management is a dynamic team of great professionals in their respective fields.

Your company began working mostly with pearls – how much are pearls used in your designs today?

aesthetics, details and innovation, we work closely to ensure that the Al Zain manufactures the best quality luxury pieces.

We thrive to ensure the brand’s name continues to flourish on both local and global scale, all the while keeping true to the essence of our core values.

We have beautiful collections with pearls. The variety is rich – from single piece pearl earrings to layered pearl necklaces and beautiful rich sets. The Maharajah Collection for example features precious stones with pearls, and is inspired by the great rulers of India. We are happy to introduce this unique collection, along with Petals and Pearls, for example, which is more delicate and artistic. We of course also have our ongoing high end pearl collections, which are in constant development. Each collection carries its own beauty and individuality, however pearls remain our signature.

Can you give an overview of your creation process – from designing each piece to presenting it in store?

Can you tell us more about the expansion of Al Zain and your factories in Bahrain?

It all starts on the drawing board with our team of dedicated designers, envisioning and developing new concepts. My mother and father are closely involved in the design selection and details, as they have a precise knowledge of what our customer favour. We are happy to rely on teams of professionals, selecting the highest quality diamonds and coloured stones to guarantee durability and customer satisfaction. Al Zain masterpieces have all been manufactured in our Bahraini based factory, all carefully crafted and many meticulously handcrafted. We are proud to have the best people working with us, ensuring the quality we offer. Once our new collections are ready we distribute them to the boutiques, handling with great care and appreciation.

We produce every single piece of jewellery in our factories, 90% of our items are made in Bahrain and 10% are outsourced, however they are always finished in Bahrain.

Our factories are located in Manama and we are currently in the process of expanding them, so we can increase capacity by another 50 people. We are currently looking for opportunities to expand the factory to about 500 people; at the moment we have about 200, hopefully by the end of 2017 this will increase. We are also opening another store in Jeddah by the end of 2017, which means we will have 2 stores there, as well as another store in Riyadh by 2017.

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Interview with Mohammed Al Zain Al Zain Jewellery was founded in 1930, can you tell us a bit more about how the company came to be?

Back in the 1930s the Kingdom’s economy was predominantly dependent on farming, fishing and pearl diving. Since these times our Bahraini pearls have been widely believed to be the best in the world. The founding father of the Al Zain family, Hassan Al Zain, became part of the pearling industry by trading pearls. Soon his son Abdulla AL Zain joined his father’s business, and his involvement and passion led to a greater success. He has a keen eye for elegance, combined with his business-savvy mind. His creativity and affinity for pearls led to Al-Zain Jewellers becoming renowned as one of the first to incorporate pearls into jewellery. Watches, source from the horology capitals such as Switzerland and Italy, were then added to the brand as the business expanded. The launch of the flagship store in the 1950s in Khobar marked the beginning of our journey of expansion around the GCC. Following the path carved by their elders, Abdulla Al Zain’s sons, my father, and their old-time friend Mohammed Hassan, continued the family business, successfully changing the primary store location from Tigar Road in the old Manama Souq to Yateem Centre. What started off with only a few employees saw immense growth at the hands of Nabeel Al Zain, as he worked tirelessly to lead the family business into the lucrative company it is today. His enthusiasm towards a fast-paced expansion across the GCC soon became a reality. As the business expanded further, Nabeel’s wife and my mother Samar Al Gosaibi, myself, and my siblings, Faisal and Noora, also joined his side. Our shared passion set the foundations of Al Zain Jewellery, as it is today. Through integrity and a great emphasis on

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Al Zain has a uniquely Bahraini identity.

What elements of Bahraini life do you think are most strongly reflected through your brand?

We respect our heritage and culture and we strive to promote Bahrain worldwide and carry our spirit through the brand. We specifically design collections dedicated to this – calligraphy, Arab Deco, Dilmun Seal, Natural Pearl and Heritage collections for example.

What distinguishes Al Zain from other jewellery brands?

We look greatly into each detail, striving for excellence and innovation, through impeccable craftsmanship. Our collections vary from classic and traditional to contemporary and exquisite high-end jewellery, to suit our valued customers’ preferences. We find great delight in designing and manufacturing intricate pieces, which are unique and exclusive. Inspired by our customers, our heritage and our visions for the future, Al Zain’s creations are constantly evolving, blossoming and celebrating the very best of life’s special moments.

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ERDEM Saks Fifth Avenue CITY CENTRE BAHRAIN +973 17172000

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Premium Experience 026

Experience

Founded in 1988, National Motor Company (NMC) is one of the leading automotive distributors in Bahrain and represents Honda, Chevrolet, GMC and Cadillac. NMC offers an extensive range of products to suit every budget, from entry level models to the top end of the luxury market. With a strong focus on customer service and delivering the best experience possible for their clients. Durrah speaks with General Manager of NMC, Ramzi Barakat to find out more.

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National Motor Company will have sustainable growth year on year, and that they are doing all the right things to maintain this

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fter 28 years in operation, National Motor Company has made a name for itself as one of the leading distributors of automobiles in the Kingdom. This premium, one-stop-shop facility covers a vast 30,935 Square metres and is part of the publicly listed Bahrain Commercial Facilities Company (BCFC), which also owns Bahrain Credit, a leading financial institution of the island.

Besides offering automobile products and services for every segment of the market, National Motor Company enhances the ownership experience of customers in pursuance of their lifetime loyalty. In addition to this, NMC is proactive in creating value for their shareholders through consistent and continuous growth of the business.

As the Bahrain market for automobiles continues to grow, it’s no question that NMC has come prepared. The dealership has a strong focus on customer service; ensuring clients are looked after from the moment they walk into the dealership..

General Manager Ramzi Barakat says, “For me, it boils down to customer service. People buy from people. I’ve worked in a number of places and that’s one thing that never changes – people want to feel comfortable when they walk into a dealership, they want to feel like they’re taken care of, and they want to feel that way from the time they take delivery of their vehicles. That customer first philosophy has to be the difference.”

From the moment a client enters NMC they are given the attention they deserve, from the right greeting, to a sit down evaluation ensuring their needs are met. In-house financing also makes sure the process is as easy and enjoyable as possible, with service second to none.

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Experience

Upon purchasing a vehicle, NMC pride themselves on a first class delivery system, which includes a special unveiling process, allowing the customer to appreciate the time and effort that has gone into their purchase.

With a wide variety of models on the market at the moment, Mr. Barakat gives insight to those that have proved to be bestsellers in the Kingdom.

“For Cadillac, the Escalade is currently a very hot seller. We have two new models that we just received, these are models that didn’t exist before – one is the CT6 and one is the XT5, and we have very high expectations for those models. The CT6 is a competitor of the 7 Series BMW and S Class Mercedes. When it comes to Chevrolet it goes without saying it’s the Tahoes, for GMC it’s the Yukons, and for Honda Accords and Civics are a staple within Bahrain.”

Despite economic factors at the start of 2016 in Bahrain, which included the prices of oil going down, the cost of electricity and petrol going up 60%, and consumables going up 30%, Mr. Barakat says it’s human nature to adapt, so by the second quarter the purchasing came back strong again. A lot of built up demand means the market for automobiles in Bahrain continues to stay strong heading into the third quarter.

One of the unique attributes of the NMC facility is

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the “drive-in” service reception, located alongside the showrooms. They have been designed to ensure that customers are able to check-in their vehicles immediately on arrival.

The dealership also likes to stay on top of upcoming trends in the market, including paying attention to the rise of technology and how this affects the consumer mind-set. In the past customers would come in to test drive their car and visit the showroom, however due to a rise in online shopping NMC has been responding to a lot of online enquiries, ensuring they are equipped to respond effectively and efficiently.

Mr. Barakat says he feels very strongly that National Motor Company will have sustainable growth year on year, and that they are doing all the right things to maintain this.

“We’re signing exclusive distribution agreements with different organisations that will make us exclusive in the Kingdom of Bahrain for selling different products. At the same time we are looking to expand our facilities, We are building a brand new used car facility right next door, and we’re looking at different service outlets, as we want to expand even further.”

01 All new 2017 Cadillac CT6 02 Mr. Ramzi Barakat 03 National Motor Company Head Office 04 2017 Cadillac CT6 luxurious interior

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COLLECTION FORCE

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Jewellery

Joyful Spirit In keeping with the Perlée collection’s inventiveness, Van Cleef & Arpels presents new creations that reassert its rounded aesthetic.

Three ‘Between the Finger Rings’ give pride of place to hard stones, while a diamond-set pendant and matching ear studs display varying tones of gold.

Faithful to the tradition of the beaded contour so dear to the Maison, they all suggest associations – bold or delicate – that can be composed to suit every occasion.

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ncapsulating ancestral savoir-faire, the Perlée collection’s border of gentle and sparkling golden beads is now associated with one of Van Cleef & Arpels’ emblematic signatures: the Between the Finger Ring. With their twin motifs linked by an open ring, these pieces adorn the hand thanks to a curvaceous duet of cabochons – one in hard stone, the other in gold set with diamonds. Each ring is enhanced by a precious dialogue: yellow gold accentuates the singular beauty of malachite, white gold reveals the luminosity of turquoise, while gentle pink gold echoes the radiant colour of carnelian. These precious combinations are magnified by a border of golden beads, which unfurls around each cabochon in two or three rows.

Matching these creations, a pendant and ear studs reinterpret the diamond-set cabochon in yellow, white and pink gold. Feminine and timeless, these jewellery pieces illuminate the silhouette with discretion.

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Ever since the Perlée collection was created, its pieces have lent themselves to varied associations and complemented other collections by Van Cleef & Arpels.

There is a combination to suit every taste: sparkling pieces, like the Perlée diamonds pendant or earrings, are a perfect match for set or engraved creations such as the Perlée clovers ring, the Perlée signature bracelet or the Frivole diamond ring.

White, pink and yellow gold form a delicate harmony, notably in the shape of three Perlée pearls of gold bracelets. Perlée couleurs pieces compose infinite combinations with an Alhambra long necklace, pendant and ring or – in a more floral version – with Cosmos earrings.

From the selection of diamonds and hard stones to setting and polishing the gold, the Perlée collection reflects all Van Cleef & Arpels’ jewellery-making savoirfaire. The gold beads are reworked individually by

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01 Couscous wristwatch in yellow gold 02 Perlée between the finger ring with malachites and cornalines

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03 Perlée ring in yellow gold with diamonds 04 Twist bracelet with pearls and coral balls

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hand, then patiently polished until they acquire their characteristic sparkle while maintaining a rounded profile. Every detail is carefully studied, as evidenced by the Perlée clovers rings whose surfaces have been subtly softened to make them even more comfortable to wear. On the set pieces, openwork on the gold allows the light to pass through and accentuates the beauty of the diamonds.

The latter have been chosen according to the same stringent criteria as any Van Cleef & Arpels creation: D, E or F for colour and IF, VVS1 or VVS2 for clarity. The hard stones also meet particularly high standards. The deep green malachite derives its poetry from straight, regular striations that run through its surface; the blue

of the turquoise stands out for its intense, opaque and uniform colour; the carnelian has been chosen for the consistency of its deep and warm orangey-red hue, enhanced by careful polishing. At every stage of the creative process, the quest for excellence endows each jewel with the emotion of a rare piece.

The Perlée collection dates from 2008, yet golden beads have been part of Van Cleef & Arpels’ history since the 1920s. The Maison used a thin thread of metal grains to outline the motifs of certain jewels, such as the Egyptian-style pieces in vogue following the discovery of Tutankhamen’s tomb in 1922. From 1948 onwards, gold beads became a style in their own right and blossomed on numerous Van Cleef & Arpels collections. An example can

be found in the yellow gold necklaces, earrings, bracelets and watches of the astonishing Couscous collection – born out of by a trip to Morocco by the Arpels family.

The 1960s’ taste for soft, fluid shapes gave rise to the Twist collection – which combines gold beads, coral beads and cultured pearls in a delicate spiral – and the Alhambra motif, fringed with an elegant beaded contour. In 2008, the gold bead aesthetic inspired the Perlée collection. Since then, the Maison has continually reinvented it with evocatively named creations: Perlée pearls of gold, Perlée couleurs, Perlée diamonds, Perlée clovers and Perlée signature. www.vancleefarpels.com/eu/en/nanosites/perlee.html

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05 Artisans at work 06 Perlée variation ring in yellow gold and onyx 07 Perlée hoop ear studs

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Discover

the extraordinary

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Ten years after the launch of the All Black range, and to mark the anniversary of the must-have trend, Hublot has surprised yet again, reinventing the model with a completely transparent look.

Creating a fusion of opposites, the Big Bang Unico Sapphire All Black makes the visible invisible – and vice versa – for a unique take on an already outstanding concept. Durrah catches up with CEO Ricardo Guadalupe to hear more about the brand history and their latest offering.

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fter ren years since the All Black concept came to life, Hublot has impressed and astounded yet again, using transparency to foster a new narrative between the visible and invisible.

Showcasing an incredible new model, the exterior of the Hublot Big Bang watch is now invisible, so that the construction and movement of the timepiece are fully visible. Through a fusion of materials, textures and finishes, Hublot has used the Big Bang Unico Sapphire All Black to reinterpret the iconic all black style.

Jean-Claude Biver, Hublot Chairman commented, “By its nature, black absorbs all visible radiation and does not reflect any light. In this original interpretation of our “All Black” concept, Hublot is once again playing with received

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ideas. The Big Bang Unico Sapphire All Black is both transparent and completely robed in black. What is more, it does not absorb light. In fact, it lets light pass through.

It embodies the dichotomy of the visible and invisible, the seen and the unseen”.

A decade ago, with its All Black collection, Hublot launched a brand-new and pioneering concept: “Invisible visibility”. A philosophy symbolising the very essence of the brand. A timepiece whose invisible take on telling the time propelled it to the rank of iconic object. A powerful, emblematic design, which became the height of fashion. Today, Hublot is still a pioneering figure in this monochrome, all black style.

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01 Big Bang Unico Sapphire All Black 02 Big Bang All Black, 2006

05 Big Bang All Black II, 2009 06 King Power Alinghi, 2010

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07 Classic Fusion Chronograph All Black, 2011

04 Big Bang Aero Bang All Black, 2008

08 Classic Fusion All Black Blue, 2012

“In the original All Black concept, the watch is visible but the time display is invisible. The Big Bang Unico Sapphire All Black plays with transparency; technically it is invisible but, conversely, the time display is rendered visible. It makes our proprietary Unico movement fully and completely visible. A watch which has nothing to hide, which fully reveals its construction and its movement,” says Ricardo Guadalupe, CEO of Hublot.

Transcending the materials used in its creation, the Big Bang Unico Sapphire All Black is crafted from blocks of smoked sapphire crystal. The interplay of transparency sees the sapphire – the hardest and most scratch-resistant material next to diamond – machined into the complex shape of the Big Bang case. This mastery of sapphire enables Hublot to render this

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09 Big Bang Ferrari All Black, 2013 10 Big Bang Unico All Black, 2014 11 MP-05 LaFerrari All Black, 2015

material — which can only be cut by diamond — more accessible, transforming its status as something unique, only seen in private collections, by using it to create a limited edition of 500 pieces. A true feat. Transparency combined with skeleton work allows the workings of the Unico manufacture movement to be laid bare.

This complete visibility means that the column wheel positioned on the dial side is now no longer the only feature of the movement, which can be seen. Even the strap combines transparency with the signature all black style.

As 10 birthday candles are lit for the “All Black” concept, this is a worthy tribute to the pioneering and acclaimed monochrome icon. www.hublot.com

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Interview with Ricardo Guadalupe, Hublot CEO How much does passion drive or influence your role as CEO of Hublot?

Passion is everything! Passion is my driving force.

Hublot is a real success story; in only 10 years, the brand has become a brand people follow, and one of the most visible brands in our industry. I am passionate for my brand.

This passion helps me motivate my teams, be proud of working for our company and also work hard to always push the boundaries to innovate and to be different in order to be one step ahead.

What is the philosophy behind each new innovation and creation from the brand?

At Hublot, we want to be first – different – unique.

When talking about innovation, we first think about what we could present that our competitors didn’t do yet. We think about new materials, colours and designs, while still respecting the tradition of watchmaking and keeping the DNA of the brand intact.

It is creating new materials like our Magic Gold, developing tools to be able to use materials that have never been used in our industry at such a scale, like the 2 Big Bang Sapphire models we presented during

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Baselworld. Our R&D as well as our product team draw inspiration from everywhere. Hublot has an enormous R&D budget and spends a lot of investments into the research of new materials. Our metallurgy department is one of the most active and innovative. That’s were most of our inventions are coming from. We need both innovation and tradition. There is no limit to innovation, creativity and ideas. And most important and what is great at Hublot, is that we never say “no we can’t”; we try until we make it happen.

12 Hublot CEO Ricardo Guadalupe 13 Big Bang Unico Sapphire All Black 14 Big Bang Unico Sapphire All Black

What do you consider to be some of the key reasons behind Hublot’s steady and increasing success?

Simply put, there are no limits for our Brand.

What do you think people are looking for, or expect, when they purchase a timepiece from Hublot, and how would you describe the typical Hublot customer?

Our customers are young in their state of mind, independent, modern, having success in their life and are sharp in the choice of their timepiece. They buy Hublot as

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they seek a luxury accessory related to their way of life.

We have a young customer base, because it has always been our strategy to target the new generation and to prepare the brand for the future. The best way to connect to the future is clearly to target the new generation, which is the future.

Hublot’s All Black range is one Hublot’s most loved and most recognised exclusive lines.

What do you think continues to draw people to this range today?

It all began with an observation from Mr. Biver; that no one buys a luxury watch just to read the time. We had already worked with ceramic for the Big Bang, and thanks to this material we decided to produce a watch in black colour, but not only for the case. We wanted the dial, hands, indexes to be black as well. The All Black collection was born.

The success of this collection is the avant-gardist concept of the “invisible visibility” and it became an iconic timepiece for the whole industry!

The All Black models are still our best sellers. Hublot created a new trend, and many brands did follow us. We produce these watches in limited editions only, and that keeps the exclusivity of this collection.

What initially attracted you to a partnership with Berluti and how does this partnership represent both of your companies’ values?

Both “Maison” are experts in their own rights and are at the forefront of masculine style. Therefore, it was natural for us to work together on a unique product that would combine both creativity and innovation, but keeping both brands’ great “savoir-faire”.

We achieved a first. As we integrated the iconic Berluti leather in our watch, not only on the bracelet but also on the dial thanks to a great technical performance. The Scritto and the Gaspard quality and designs are easily recognizable, giving the Classic Fusion a unique design.

How does the market for Hublot in the Middle East compare to the rest of the world?

The Middle East is one of our key markets. The Middle East market, next to Japan, has seen one of the highest growths for our brand in the past years.

Moreover, since its opening, our Hublot Boutique at The Dubai Mall is one of our top boutique worldwide, which is fantastic.

What are the more popular timepiece styles and trends in this region and why do you think this is?

We do not really have a “best collection” for the Middle East. We have customers interested in all our collections. Customers from the Middle East are very sharp in their selection and are always looking for the latest products and innovations.

How do you envision the brand developing or expanding over the next five to ten years?

We want to be leaders in our industry and especially in our segment being in the Top 5.

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Watches

A specialist of technical watches, Breitling has played a crucial role in the development of the wrist chronograph with its reliable and high-performance instruments.

One of the world’s only major watch brands to equip all its models with chronometercertified movements, the ultimate token of precision, Breitling is also one of the rare companies to produce its own mechanical chronograph movements, entirely developed and manufactured in its own workshops. Durrah catches up with Vice President JeanPaul Girardin, who has been with the company for over 20 years, to hear more.

Passion for Performance Interview with Jean-Paul Girardin You have been with Breitling for over 20 years now. In what ways have you seen the company progress and evolve during this time?

Over the last 20 years Breitling has progressed a lot. Firstly, in terms of independence, and secondly in terms of the products and innovation we offer. If you look back 20 years ago compared to today, Breitling made significant progress. It is worth mentioning that these innovations and improvements have been made across all levels, whilst keeping the same brand direction in mind, the same direction that has made Breitling successful over the years. For Breitling, the brand strategy was already defined in the 30s. Breitling was already a family-owned company and a specialist in mechanical chronographs with close links with the world of aviation, so Breitling progressed whilst remaining faithful to the brand’s history and heritage.

Breitling has also progressed across many fields such as product, functionality, design and availability and the company now has comprehensive vertical integration.

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These days, our customers are more demanding so we have to follow the market demands, progressing also in key areas such as distribution, marketing & communications and also in aftersales service.

As a qualified helicopter pilot, how has this knowledge translated into the mechanics of watchmaking, especially when it comes to the strong ties between Breitling and aviation?

There are many similarities between aviation and watchmaking. Firstly, everything is centred around precision so it is important to get things right. Aviation is not that complicated but you cannot get it wrong, because if things are you may be in serious trouble. It’s similar in watchmaking, when you are producing a high precision, high performance mechanical movement or a Breitling chronograph and you have to go to COSC (chronometer-certified movements) there is no tolerance.

It’s either good or it’s not, so you have to get things right.

Both fields of aviation and watchmaking do not sustain

room for mediocrity, which is not so easy sometimes, but we aim to get things right every time we are flying or producing a chronograph.

How hands-on are you when it comes to the design and manufacturing processes?

The manufacturing process takes teamwork. It’s like architects would say if they were designing a building, you have to combine both functionality and strong aesthetic, which expresses something in terms of design.

From my side I am involved mainly with technical and operational side. We have a design team and the new product team which is led by Breitling’s CEO, Mr Schneider. When the design is finalised we can take care of how to produce it.

What can people expect when they invest in a timepiece from Breitling?

Deciding to invest in a Breitling might not be the easiest choice, as our products are quite technical

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and have a strong design. It is worth buying a Breitling because you get a high value product that is different than from other good watches. The majority of our watches are also big to ensure the legibility of the chronograph, so by essence we are more dedicated to men rather than ladies. But this is also changing as ladies are wearing more and more big watches. So to make it short, you will not regret investing in a Breitling chronograph.

It is rare for a company to develop and manufacture pieces in their own workshops, as Breitling does. In what way do you think this benefits and influences the chronographs you produce?

It is really important to be independent. Breitling is not only one of the few remaining familyowned watch brands, we are also independent in terms of innovation capacity, capability and production supply. We are independent in terms of deciding the pace of the growth of the company,

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how many pieces we produce and also what kind of pieces we produce, which is very important because our customers are expecting innovation.

Independence is important in terms of innovation capacity, capability and also production supply.

These elements are important to keep the vertical integration of the company and answer to our customers’ demands.

There are more and more companies manufacturing pieces in their own workshops, but they are different watch brands categories. You have the fully integrated manufacturers, which have the capability to do everything internally, like Breitling.

There are other watchmakers that just assemble the components they buy, and then there are others such as fashion brands, which let others produce the watch and then put their brand logo on the dial. We belong to the first category. In terms of the number of factories producing internally so many mechanical chronographs, I would say there are less than the numbers of fingers on one hand.

direction. If we innovate in terms of the design, we have to make sure the model is still recognisable as a Breitling watch, but that it also surprises our customers. In terms of functionality, with the arrival of new technologies such as connectivity, it was logical for us to use this technology in the Breitling way with the Exospace B55, which enabled us to improve the functionality with our quartz chronograph. We are also closely looking at what is happening regarding innovation in new materials, but always keeping the same direction that has made Breitling successful in the past.

Breitling is constantly thinking outside the box to produce the most inventive and innovative timepieces on the market. Where does the manufacturer look to gain inspiration for this?

Where do you predict Breitling will be in another 20 years’ time?

Breitling’s inspiration comes from the brand’s history. It seems strange when you are talking about innovation, but for us the real source of consideration is Breitling’s history and heritage. As I mentioned, Breitling is renowned for producing mechanical chronographs. We have close links with aviation and we are also very keen on improving the functionality as well as the precision of the product, and innovating in terms of design. All of these elements of innovation are moving in the same

01 Breitling Chronométrie 02 Portrait of Jean-Paul Girardin 03 Façade of the Breitling Chronométrie 04 Experts at work 05 Meticulous craftsmanship

What are some of the exciting new developments we should look forward to over the next 12 months?

We do not make announcements about the coming six or twelve months. When we release or present a product at a launch it is always a product that is ready for production. You’ll have to be patient and wait until the next Baselworld fair but I’m sure you will not be disappointed.

I don’t have a crystal ball so it is difficult to predict. I hope that Breitling will continue in the same direction the company has being going for the past 130 years, continue with its close links to aviation, continue to be independent, and continue to produce new products. Of course we have to compete with big groups and that’s always tough, but as a small independent company we have a number of assets and we will capitalise on that. One of them is the ability to move quickly and be reactive whilst having longterm thinking, which is important these days when everything is changing so fast.

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Watches

On 27 occasions since 1932, Omega has fulfilled the prestigious role of Official Timekeeper at the Olympic Games.

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Throughout its history as Official Timekeeper of the Olympic Games, Omega has helped to capture some of the most remarkable sporting moments, with many of the victories coming down to milliseconds. As the Olympic Games have evolved over time, and athletes have become faster and stronger, Omega’s own excellence in timekeeping has also continued to grow.

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n 1932 the legacy began, and it was a defining year in the history of sports measurement. For the very first time, a single private company was entrusted with keeping time across all events at the Olympic Games. That honour went to Omega, who supplied one timekeeper and 30 high precision chronographs which had all been certified as chronometers by the Observatory at Neuchâtel. In this first occasion as Official Timekeeper of the Olympic Games, Omega was able to capture results to the nearest 10th of a second. The brand’s expertise was highly appreciated by the officials in Los Angeles and was also invaluable when it came to confirming 17 new World Records.

The event was also notable for having the first Olympic Village, as well as the first medal podiums at an Olympic Games.

When the Olympic Games came to London in 1948, one of the greatest revolutions in sports timekeeping was unveiled. The first photofinish camera, dubbed the “Magic Eye”, was introduced

by Omega and enabled timekeepers to pinpoint the

exact positions of athletes as they crossed the finish line. Developed by the British Race Finish Recording Company, it could distinguish the difference between gold and silver medal performances with more accuracy than any previous technology.

Suddenly, rankings were beyond dispute and machines began to out-perform the capabilities of the human eye. The “Magic Eye” was immediately put to the test in the historic 100-metre final where two Americans, Harrison Dillard and Barney Ewell, fought to an exciting finish. Both men clocked the same time of 10.3 seconds. After consulting the image, the judges named Dillard the winner, and he claimed the gold medal.

A controversial result in 1960 at the Olympic Games in Rome triggered the next big innovation in the pool: automatic touchpads. 1960 was the last Olympic Games timed by Omega to be resolved with human-eye decisions. This proved problematic in the final of the men’s 100m freestyle when judges disagreed on who the winner was. Ultimately, the

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01 Speedmaster Mark II Rio 2016

04 The Omega Scan’O’Vision

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gold medal went to Australia’s John Devitt, while Lance Larson of the USA was perhaps unfairly placed second. In response, Omega went on to develop the automatic touchpads at the ends of pools that allow swimmers to stop time with their own hands.

First appearing in 1967 at the Pan-American Games in Winnipeg, they have been successfully used at the Olympic Games ever since.

Omega sent 45 timekeepers to Mexico City in 1968 along with 8 tons of equipment. Included in this large transport was the Omega Photosprint, used to film all runners at the end of a race. The device was able to capture the moment that every contestant crossed the finish line on one single photograph.

Within a minute after the race, officials had one enlarged, positive image that revealed the official times of each contestant. Yet again, Omega had risen to the demands of critical timekeeping and offered a revolutionary new technology. The camera captured 10 World Records at the Estadio Olimpico that year.

For the athletes, this was perhaps helped by the high altitude of the location, where the thin air contributed to many great performances.

The Olympic Games that took place in Los Angeles in 1984 were notable for a number of memorable athletic performances including the 4 gold

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medals won by American Carl Lewis. Out on the track, Omega was making its own strides in timekeeping by introducing the first false start detection device. The equipment was extremely sensitive and functioned by measuring the pressure that runners exerted against the starting block. As the athletes launched themselves forward, their reaction time was triggered when their leg exerted 29kg (27kg for women) of pressure. With an allowed reaction time of 0.100 seconds, Omega was now able to detect the slightest false start.

Looking at the Olympic Games today, it is clear to see that Omega’s timekeeping has evolved to become a highly-sophisticated system that leaves no result in doubt.

In London in 2012, Omega introduced three new pieces of “futuristic” equipment including new starting blocks used by sprinters and short-distance runners; the innovative Swimming Show that instantly ranks the top three finishers in the pool; and the high-precision Quantum Timer used in athletics and water sports that has an enhanced resolution of one millionth of a second. Added to this, there are even more devices now being used such as the laser and sound “starting pistol” with its bright red colour, and the Omega Scan’O’Vision MYRIA that captures

10,000 frames per second in a photofinish. Over the years the brand’s reputation has been cemented by dedication and passion. For the athletes who competed at Rio 2016, every result is was in safe and experienced hands.

On 27 occasions since 1932, Omega has fulfilled the prestigious role of Official Timekeeper at the Olympic Games. Under its watchful eye, records have been set and broken, history has been witnessed and legends have been made. No matter the year, the Olympic Games have always delivered a multitude of great moments in time.

At Rio de Janeiro, the brand assumed its duties for the 27th time. Surrounded by the colour and culture of this vibrant city, Omega worked with the enduring commitment and passion that has sealed their unrivalled reputation.

For an edition of the Olympic Games today, Omega sends around 480 tons of equipment, miles and miles of cabling and 450 timekeepers. This massive undertaking shows the effort that the brand is willing to exude in order to serve the dedicated athletes who are competing on one of the biggest stages of their lives. www.omegawatches.com

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Watches

Incredible Innovation Featuring classic traits of watchmaking excellence, this selection of timepieces for men showcases the highest standards of innovation with a fresh take on the world of horology. Durrah explores stunning new models from the world’s best brands.

Zeitwerk Minute Repeater, A.Lange & Söhne The Zeitwerk Minute Repeater is the first mechanical watch that pairs a jumping numerals display with a decimal minute repeater. But it is not just an amazing horological work of art: it is also a fine-tuned mechanical musical instrument for the wrist. The case material, the size and shape of the gongs, the way they are secured to the movement, the number of moving parts – every detail counts. Special measuring technologies and a musically trained ear are essential in the development of a minute repeater for optimising the individual acoustic parameters down to the finest of nuances. As is commonplace for high-end musical instruments, the gongs are tuned exclusively by hand until they thoroughly harmonise with each other. In the end, they both sound full and pure – so the future owners of one of these masterpieces can look forward to a splendid experience in sonority. www.alange-soehne.com/en/news-and-more/zeitwerkminute-repeater

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Luminor 8 Days Set, Panerai Officine Panerai continues looking to its own past to relate fascinating new stories to its enthusiastic collectors. A new Luminor 8 Days Set – available in only 500 examples – contains two watches inspired by models created in the pre-Vendôme era, that is, the year in which Panerai was acquired

by Vendôme. Notably, in 1996 Panerai made a few small series of watches commissioned by Sylvester Stallone. The new Luminor 8 Days Set takes two models originally created for the American actor: a Luminor Black Seal, presented for the first time in a left-handed version, and a Luminor Daylight with an original, extremely rare white dial with blue markers and numerals. The two watches are supplied in vintage box containing a model of the human torpedo together with a rare publication about the military equipment of the special forces of the Royal Italian Navy, in which Panerai watches and instruments appear. www.panerai.com/en/collections/specialeditions/2016/luminor-8-days-set_pam00786.html

BR 03 AeroGT, Bell & Ross The BR 03 AeroGT watch duo is directly inspired by the AeroGT concept car. The automotive and watchmaking industries share a lot of similarities; therefore it seemed only natural to combine the two. The design studio created two variants: a chronograph embodying the very essence of the automotive watch, and a more classical three-handed watch. These watches feature a steel case that recalls the fuselage-style body of the AeroGT project. For even greater strength, the designer boosted the proportions and shapes of these models to give them a sportier and more streamlined look. Their crowns are made using red aluminium, an extremely light alloy often used in sports cars. Their open-worked dials are formed from layers to give them an intriguing impression of depth. Meanwhile, the skeletonised mechanism of these watches has been designed to allow a glimpse through the movement while making them lighter. www.bellross.com/mods/watches/BR-03-Aero-GT

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Watches

RM 68-01 Tourbillon Cyril Kongo, Richard Mille The RM 68-01 is the outcome of Richard Mille’s desire to introduce contemporary art within haute horlogerie in an unprecedented manner, featuring the creativity of street artist Cyril Kongo. Never before has a work of art thus taken shape on the bridges and baseplate of a watch, becoming a truly integral part of the timepiece. It took more than a year to develop the painting technique used

by Kongo. A special airbrush was developed to allow the artist to spray his colours with the utmost delicacy, one droplet at a time. To avoid jeopardising the calibre’s equilibrium, essential to its functioning, the weight of the paint had to be strictly determined beforehand. This signi cant challenge involving all the teams collaborating on the RM 68-01 project resulted in the creation of a unique palette of brightly coloured indelible paints that adhere perfectly to the titanium components and can endure assembly and dismantling. www.richardmille.com/watch/rm-68-01-kongo

Diver Chronograph Hammerhead Shark, Ulysse Nardin Ulysse Nardin celebrates an evolution with the Diver Chronograph Hammerhead Shark, featuring the selfwinding manufacture chronograph caliber UN-150 with silicium escapement and balance spring. A quintessential marine instrument – now made even more powerful by the UN-150 – the Diver Chronograph Hammerhead Shark is presented as a limited edition in both stainless steel (300 pieces) and 18-karat rose gold 5N (99 pieces). Exceptionally nautical in style, both versions sport a deep blue dial with a signature hammerhead shark motif. Lifelike, the hammerheads appear to be waiting on their seamount before setting off to feed.

The watch’s oversized case – 44 mm, 48-hour power reserve, screw-locked crown, pushers, solid lugs, and unidirectional turning bezel make it an essential watch for ocean travel and excursions. Rugged and reliable, it is the yachtsmen’s and diving enthusiast’s companion when stepping on board. Complementing modern technology, the chronograph gives seafaring adventurers the timekeeping necessities they need – right at their fingertips. www.ulysse-nardin.com/product/diver-chronograph1502-151le-3-93-hammer

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AC-One 45 Tides, Corum Admiral Made to adorn the wrist of the seagoing adventurer, the superb AC-One 45 Tides watch from Corum is back with a reworked design and all-new image, 21 years after its initial launch. The timepiece remains a unique complication in the world of haute horology with its mechanical movement, driving indications of the time and strength of the tides, the lunar cycle, as well as the strength of the currents and the height of the tides. No less than three years of development, conducted in collaboration with the Astronomic Observatory of Geneva and the SHOM (Hydrographic and Oceanographic Services of the French National Navy) based in Brest, were required to create this highly exclusive “tides movement”. The CO 277 caliber now provides its essential navigation-related indications on a striking red dial bearing sub dials that are more graphically styled than ever. www.corum.ch/en/admirals-cup-ac-one-45-3

Senator Excellence, Glashütte Original The Calibre 36 celebrates its debut, as is only fitting, in a classic of the watchmaker’s collection. With its minimalist design, the Senator Excellence mirrors the pure essence of Glashütte Original. A slim bezel and the domed sapphire crystal, anti-reflective on both sides, offer superb views and lend this timepiece its simple elegance. The finely ribbed crown bears the brand’s representative double-Glashütte logo, while the polished and satin-brushed surfaces of the case reflect the light and are harmoniously attuned to each other. The hour, minute and seconds hands follow their paths above a gently understated dial that heightens the focus on what is essential: the newly designed dial with an open, elegant and contemporary face. Three versions are available: two present a dial with a light, silver-grained lacquer surface along with laser-cut, galvanised black indexes and a corresponding railroad minute ring. www.glashuette-original.com/collection/the-4-pillars/ detail/senator-excellence

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Watches

From bold styles to timeless elegance, these timepiece selections for women find expression in the meeting of two skills: the measurement of time and the excellence of jewellery savoir-faire. While the ingenuity of subtle dials and assembly techniques bring flexibility and grace to the bracelets, the stones are carefully selected and matched in keeping with the highest standards of quality.

Elegance and Style Lady Arpels Jour Nuit Oiseaux de Paradis, Van Cleef & Arpels High Jewellery Maison Van Cleef & Arpels celebrated its unique style in High Watchmaking through the Poetry of Time exhibition, presenting a range of new styles including two new Lady Arpels Jour Nuit pieces that fully express the watchmaker’s art and perpetuate the constant renewal of nature. Depicting ladybirds and a bird of paradise, these creations accompany the emotions and moments of happiness bequeathed by the passage of time. The Lady Arpels Jour Nuit Oiseaux de Paradis showcases a bird of paradise as it sets its iridescent feathers down upon a bird of paradise flower.

At nightfall, the flower disappears to make way for a diamond moon, as the disk of cloisonnĂŠ enamel mirrors the 24- hour cycle, accompanying the passage of day and night. In creating the collection, Van Cleef & Arpels have revolutionised the world of horology in a poetic manner. www.vancleefarpels.com

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DolceVita, Longines Since its inception, the Longines DolceVita collection has illustrated the contemporary elegance of the Longines watchmaking brand worldwide. Inspired by the “Dolce Vita”, it is an homage to the sweetness of life. Today, Longines introduces new models blending rose gold and steel that enrich the collection. The timeless glamour of these variations will not fail to impress women who have made charm a way of life. The solid rose gold crown and the touch of pink on the dial harmoniously match the rose gold and steel watchband. With their new finery, these models will thrill women who delight in wearing an accessory that reflects their image for a joyful and colourful picnic near the racetrack. The steel cases of the Longines DolceVita collection feature a solid gold crown and are also offered in a version set with diamonds. The models are available in four sizes and house a quartz movement. www.longines.com/#!/watches/dolcevita

Limelight Gala, Piaget The Limelight Gala Collection from Piaget is recognisable at first glance by its round case and voluptuous curves, highlighted by a bezel set with gently graded round diamonds. The case is enhanced by two dainty elongated asymmetrical lugs, while its pure dial is gracefully punctuated by slender Roman numerals.

If by chance there were to be any lingering doubts as to its identity, they are unequivocally dispelled by the timepiece’s gold bracelet. An authentic contemporary signature, the Limelight Gala is the epitome of absolute femininity according to Piaget: inherently elegant and supremely sophisticated. Buoyed by the boundless creativity of the Maison, it symbolises Piaget’s desire to create watches entirely dedicated to women. Everything is about aesthetics, balance, proportions, and details.

Created for the first time in the 1970s, it now appears in an exclusively gold-clad version featuring a Milanese mesh strap complementing its generous curves. www.piaget.com

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Watches

Black Velvet, Roger Dubuis 2016, the year proclaimed by Roger Dubuis as the Year of the Diva, sees the introduction of five gorgeous Velvet lines from the Manufacture, all vividly confirming its stature as the Jeweller of rare artistic masterpieces. The multiple aspects of this claim are embodied with particular strength in the World Premiere Black Velvet trilogy. In the dazzling version unveiled at the SIHH 2016, an approximately one-carat halo of 66 Paraiba tourmalines adorns the bezel and ‘third-lug’ décor. These ultra-rare stones glow with singular vibrancy that sets off the dusky carbon dial background to perfection. They are matched by the shimmering dove grey of the shiny satin-finish strap.

The second interpretation is no less appealing; since it is graced with a white mother-of-pearl dial surrounded by 66 black spinels – another rare gemstone – totalling approximately 1.3cts. This stylish model is fitted with a black strap in the same silky soft fabric produced using state-of-the-art technologies. www.rogerdubuis.com/black-velvet

New Retro Lady, de Grisogono de Grisogono explores the timeless refinement of the 1950s with a large rectangular model that is at once minimalist, atypical and intrinsically elegant. A timepiece asserting the inimitable de Grisogono style and appearing in colourful or understated versions, the New Retro Lady is all about bespoke, finely tailored details. A 12 o’clock dial, an extremely readable dial enhanced by a full-set round counter, along with the care devoted to creating ideal colour combinations create a perfect overall effect. The New Retro Lady is a watch born in the 21st century and rooted in the 1950s. A source of inspiration for fashionistas, first ladies, princesses, actresses and quintessential Women, the New Retro Lady is destined to become a byword for timeless elegance. With baguettecut diamonds, sapphires, rubies and emeralds, these classic adornments for an ageless watch reflect the spirit embodied in the four elements: air, water, fire and earth. degrisogono.com/story/new-retro-lady

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Yachting Collection, Franck Muller Franck Muller has unveiled its striking new timepiece dedicated to the seafaring world, as global precision meets yachting sport design in this avant-garde artwork. Inspired by the dynamic Vanguard™ collection, the Yachting Collection develops a new creative vision of time with its nautical details. The Yachting watch features all the seafaring details: from the deep blue to the wind rose adorning the dial everything reminds us the sea world. The distinct Vanguard™ numerals perfectly complement the audacious design of the dial and enhance its high legibility. Sporting either an automatic movement or a manual one, the line is available in titanium, 18-carat gold and stainless steel and is further seen in four variants – classic, chronograph, tourbillon and Gravity tourbillon. This timepiece is the ideal sporty watch for the owners of a yacht as the two universes share the same elegance and technical features. Each watch comes with a rubber and alligator strap. www.franckmuller.com

Gilda Grand Pavé, Eberhard & Co. The glittering Gilda Grand Pavé is a stunning new addition to the Gilda ladies watch range from master watchmakers, Eberhard & Co. The piece has an elliptical steel case and soft, harmonious lines enveloping a white mother of pearl dial with Arabic numerals. The delicate wave motif is obtained thanks to a special engraving technique and to a precious ellipse of 50 diamonds. The case features 212 stunning diamonds on three rows, while the crown is wrapped in 14 more diamonds. The result is a breath taking balance of elegance and style.

Gilda Grand Pavé has a quartz movement, protected by a patented domed sapphire glass with anti-reflective treatment. The caseback is secured with 4 concealed screws and personalised with a delicate floral engraving.

The strap is available in striking and contemporary black lace, or for women who appreciate more timeless simplicity; there is a classic white alligator strap. www.eberhard-co-watches.ch

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Perfume

Signature Scent

As the Kilian eco-luxe parfum brand evolves and matures, the one aspect that remains consistent, is that each product created embodies ultimate sophistication and timeless luxury. In a unique tradition, the brand has created a signature scent for every city where a Kilian boutique has opened.

Durrah explores the Boutique Exclusives Collection from around the world.

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eir to a long line of cognac-makers who were pioneers in luxury, Kilian Hennessy decided to take up the torch of family tradition. Creating a new luxury brand was definitely a challenge worthy of his predecessors. After graduating from a program in communications and language studies, where he wrote a thesis on semantics of odours in the search for a common language between gods and mortals, Kilian went on to study with some of the greatest noses in perfumery, honing his craft creating perfumes for some of the top fashion brands in the industry.

In 2007, Kilian launched his own namesake brand with the ambition of reflecting not only his distinct personality, but also to achieve a perfect alliance between elegance and uncompromising luxury. His “eco-luxe� philosophy that each bottle can be refilled and kept for a lifetime, therefore

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01 Kilian Hennessy

For each Kilian boutique around the world, a signature scent has been created as an olfactive embodiment of each store’s location

02 Kilian Boutique, Lugano 03 Apple Brandy by Kilian New York

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creating less waste for the planet, catapulted the 02 brand to the top of the fragrance market and into a niche of its very own.

For each Kilian boutique around the world, a signature scent has been created as an olfactive embodiment of each store’s location. There are currently a total of six “Boutique Exclusives” scents available, representing the cities of New York, Moscow, London, Lugano and Doha. Each fragrance has a very distinctive character and is built on short formulas with an overdose of natural ingredients.

During the month of September only, the Boutique Exclusives Collection will be exclusively available at selected Paris Gallery stores in the UAE. www.bykilian.com/en/home.php

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Apple Brandy by Kilian – New York Perfumer: Sidonie Lancesseur

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Apple Brandy is the code name for the perfume Kilian created as an homage to his family heritage, with a wink to New York. In order to recreate this very specific scent that is part of Kilian’s olfactive memory, Sidonie Lancesseur created an accord combining the smoked wood from the oak casks - cedarwood from Texas, white cedarwood from China and labdanum from Spain, vanilla and ambroxan. Apple is a wink to the “Big Apple”, so Sidonie created an apple accord, which rather blends than contrasts with the oak cask accord.

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On the Rocks by Kilian – Moscow Perfumer: Sidonie Lancesseur

Pearl Oud by Kilian – Doha Perfumer: Christian Provenzano

On The Rocks was created for the opening of the Kilian boutique in Crocus City Mall, Moscow. For this scent, Kilian asked Sidonie Lancessseur to create the smell of a drink cooled by ice. Sidonie combined cold spices – coriander and cardamom – with aldehydes.

The heart of the fragrance is a bitter accord of rhubarb mixed with clear floral notes of rose and lily of the valley. In the dry down, oakmoss, ambroxan and sandalwood bring out an iodized effect, yet comfortable and slightly leathery.

Pearl Oud was created for the opening of the Kilian boutique in The Pearl mall. This exclusive scent is an homage to Doha, its ancestral culture of the pearl and its magnificent mall where Kilian opened his first boutique in Qatar: The Pearl.

The fragrance opens with a cocktail of spices: saffron and black pepper. The exotic scent of Ylang Ylang gives to the fragrance a warm opening. The heart is a rich and opulent floral bouquet: jasmine absolute from India, rose absolute from Turkey, essence of rose of May from France and iris absolute from Italy. The fragrance then evolves into an intense, animalistic composition thanks to the oud from India and the castoreum, giving the fragrance a very unique personality.

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Lemon in Zest by Kilian – Lugano Perfumer: Alberto Morillas Kilian has created the very unique fragrance Lemon in Zest as a wink to Lugano’s Italian influences and the most emblematic, sour yet zesty Italian refreshing beverage. Lemon in Zest is a unique fresh harmony.

The fragrance opens with the brightness of the mandarine and the zest of the lemon from Italy.

The citrus opening is then warmed by the sensuality of vanilla from New Guinea and the syrupy facet of orange. The dry down is reinforced by powerful notes of patchouli from Indonesia and vetiver from Haiti.

04 On The Rocks by Kilian Moscow 05 Lemon in Zest by Kilian Lugano 06 Pearl Oud by Kilian - Doha 07 Kilian Boutique, Harrods, London

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08 Kilian Boutique, Doha 09 Royal Leather by Kilian Mayfair 10 Single Malt by Kilian - London

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Royal Leather by Kilian – Mayfair Perfumer: Fabrice Pellegrin

Single Malt by Kilian – London Perfumer: Sidonie Lancesseur

Royal Leather was created for the opening of the Kilian boutique in Mayfair, London. Royal Leather is an homage to the British heritage and a wink to the iconic British guard. The leathery smell is to remind their uniform, the strong woodsy notes, their strength, and the refined notes of heliotrope flower, their aristocratic style! The fragrance opens with a surprising mix of hawthorn and black tea, giving the scent a warm and deep opening. The heart of the fragrance is a perfect balance between the soft and powdery notes of heliotrope flower and the rich and animalic notes of leather. The fragrance then evolves into a woodsy composition with the oud from Laos and the patchouli from Indonesia, giving the fragrance a dark yet intoxicating appeal.

Single Malt is an homage to London. The fragrance was created for the opening of the Kilian boutique at Harrods, in the Salon de Parfums. The top notes instantly evoke all the facets of the intense smell of this Single Malt tasted years ago. The heart of the fragrance balances between the golden reflection of wheat absolute and the gourmand yet sophisticated character of plum. The woodsy dry down of Single Malt, composed of cedarwood essence from Texas enriched with the vanilla absolute from Madagascar and the tolu balm from Colombia, gives to this fragrance an unconventional identity.

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Perfume

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World of Beauty

After 15 years of R&D in biotechnology, José Eisenberg finally decided to launch his eponymous brand in 2000. His aim was to create the iconic brand of the future. EISENBERG is now recognised as a leading brand of beauty products throughout the world, thanks to its unique identity, just like its creator. Durrah speaks with José Eisenberg to find out more.

01 Jose Eisenberg - Founder & Creator 02 Eisenberg fragrances 03 Eisenberg skincare

Interview with Jose Eisenberg How did you first develop an interest in the world of beauty?

I really feel it is a part of my DNA. My first approach to true beauty was through art, which I discovered and appreciated at a very young age.

Indeed, I was living in the most artistic city in Europe: Florence, Italy and I even started my career in art workshops.

This passion for timeless beauty eventually grew into a desire to create. Skincare, perfumes and makeup were definitely what excited me, as they must, in my eyes, reflect the best of science and nature, creativity and fantasy. Moreover, just like in art, only the most extraordinary products will be praised and remembered.

EISENBERG carries my name, and a vision, a dream of products offering luxury, results, effectiveness and true beauty, and my customers feel it.

How would you define beauty?

Beauty is a mystery; it can be found anywhere, even in the smallest of details.

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My goal and the purpose of my brand are to bring beauty into the lives of men and women. I aspire to make them feel better, more beautiful…simply happier!

Beauty is about many things, but having a perfect, healthy and radiant complexion is a great start, and I am glad I can help with that.

On a more a personal level, I think that a beautiful woman is a confident, happy woman. When I hear from customers that my products have helped to achieve that, I feel overwhelmed with pride.

creations. We are family business and my son, my team and I are behind each and every detail of the brand, be it skincare or perfumes.

Finally, sharing my love of beauty and luxury, and inviting our dear customers to travel into the heart of my unique world is also a concern my team and myself always have in mind when bringing products to the market.

What is your philosophy when it comes to crafting your creations?

EISENBERG is a family brand, and my son, Edmond Eisenberg, is fully involved in the worldwide development of the brand, still following its strong values such as research of perfection. How has this worked in our favour?

I think it is quite simple; it all comes down to meaning, we have a soul. There are values and meaning in everything we do. Our products are not just tubes filled with creams on a shelf - they are our creations. I trust that people are looking for meaning nowadays, and EISENBERG customers are very faithful because they deeply cherish the values we convey.

Excellence and innovation! These are the standards we set for everything we do, and for each product or line we launch into the market. Everything must be perfect and bring a true innovation.

EISENBERG is also a spirit of innovation and research, effectiveness, safety and verifiable results, obtained by our meticulous and thorough R&D. What also allows us to have such high standards of excellence is the control we have over our

Family values and tradition play a big role in your business, how do you think this has this worked in your favour?

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The creation of your products is based on extensive dedicated research. How important was this research when developing your line?

Essential! Before launching EISENBERG, I undertook 15 years of R&D, which led to the discovery of the Trio-Molecular® Formula. The Trio-Molecular® Formula is not an invention, it is a scientific discovery, and allies the best of what science and nature have to offer. It is now at the heart of all of my products.

All of the products we develop answer specific needs, and we base our research on natural ingredients during several years in order to achieve the most effective and safe formulae ever.

For instance, a very recent achievement of the EISENBERG R&D: three newly launched products for sensitive skin. Offering innovative and specific solutions to comfort, protect and soothe sensitive skin all year round was a fantastic innovation challenge.

Many years of research and tests have enabled us to launch three targeted treatments (a serum, a mask and a cream) that combine the efficiency of the TrioMolecular® Formula with the latest biotechnological research on plant-derived stem cells and on highperformance natural active ingredients. At the heart of this line, the Raspberry Leaf Stem Cell Extract, which benefits from incredible anti-oxidising, antiinflammatory and DNA-protecting properties.

Again, as a family brand we have the freedom to take all the time we need to make THE perfect product. We are never in a rush, and this is a big secret in the success of EISENBERG.

What are the key factors that set Eisenberg apart from other products on the market?

A genuine passion for beauty, for perfection, for art and for excellence! I am personally behind each and every aspect and detail of the brand, and I work together with my team in the same spirit.

As I said before, our skincare delivers instant, visible and long lasting results thanks to our unique

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patented Trio-Molecular Formula and the high tech ingredients we carefully select. Moreover, applying our products must be a pleasure from the moment you see them and apply them: scents and textures are always innovative, fresh and luxurious.

When it comes to the fragrances, it is not only the beautiful and varied scents that our customers cherish so dearly. L’Art du Parfum is also an exclusive concept and a magical universe, where perfume and art are closely intertwined. This Bohemian-Parisian spirited yet ultra-sophisticated collection allows to instinctively feel emotions, beauty, and mystery.

Each subtle, unique scent is captive in bottles purer than crystal, as precious and unforgettable as treasured moments. I am the sole Creator and Nose to each of my perfumes.

What are your favourite products that you have developed?

I cannot choose! Just like my children, my products are my creations – a part of me, into which I have projected my dreams.

We have an exceptional assortment and everybody can find his or her personal EISENBERG essential in just a heartbeat. At EISENBERG our products are the stars, and all of them have the same importance.

At the moment I am very happy to see the success of my new creations for sensitive skin. The feedback we have had from customers who have suffered because of their sensitive skin for years without finding appropriate solutions, and who are now able to have beautiful and comfortable skin thanks to EISENBERG is really rewarding.

Also in the pipeline of our launch projects are two revolutionary products (an oil-free ‘Tender Emulsion’, and a ‘Delicate Cream’) that target First Wrinkles. These will be launched in your market very, very soon, and will be a real game changer for women from 28 to 40 years old. Both of these products aim at protecting skin, stimulating cell renewal as well as preventing premature skin ageing and the deepening of the first wrinkles. This is a major launch for EISENBERG, and for helping women

preserve a young and beautiful complexion.

And then, another project that is very dear to me and that will be launched very soon is a new collection of exclusive perfumes…a breath taking, mysterious collection and a unique encounter of two worlds and arts, soon available in your market.

You are known as an inspired aesthete and art lover – how is this expressed through the products you create and your overall vision?

My love for beauty and art is reflected in all of my products. Every detail of my products is precious to me: in the timeless elegance of my skincare lines enhanced by the finest gold, silver, ivory details of the packs and jars…no labels, but engraved writing, golden pumps, or a perfect square bottle with a crystal-glass cap for my L’Art du Parfum Concept.

Beauty is everywhere in EISENBERG, but pure, figurative art is the most present in my perfume collection. When becoming friends with Juarez Machado, the famous Brazilian painter, I knew I could visually express my olfactory emotions through painting. Guiding Juarez Machado step by step, each painting interprets a fragrance, an emotion and this is very precious for me.

What is Eisenberg’s vision for the future and how do you see your brand expanding?

My first aim is to continue creating the most innovative and perfect products, to make more and more men and women around the world feel beautiful, happy and in love with EISENBERG. Of course we will continue expanding the brand on a global scale, and keep bringing our freedom, values and traditions to customers across the world.

Finally, as I often say…the sky is the limit to what we can achieve!

Eisenberg is exclusively available at Paris Gallery. www.eisenberg.com

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Special Feature

A Bright Future

In the past decade Bahrain’s real estate market has witnessed robust performance, making it one of the most attractive and stable markets in the region. Despite the more cautious market movement these past couple of years, the Kingdom’s property sector has proven resilient, citing a surge in real estate activity. Diyar Al Muharraq is a beacon of real estate success; it has withstood the test of time and set a benchmark in new city development.

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ahrain has made a name for itself in recent years as an attractive real estate haven, prompted further by its low investment and transaction costs as well as its business-friendly environment.

Construction has also picked up and is progressing in full steam, with the unveiling of new residential projects, retail and hospitality offerings, and the recovery of mixed-use developments previously put on hold, a true reflection of the market’s revived confidence. Fuelling the industry further is Bahrain’s appeal to foreigners looking to relocate to the region, as well as the great strides taken by the local government to boost tourism, all of which combined are opening up new prospects and facilitating the industry to thrive.

Diyar Al Muharraq is a front runner in the industry; the concept was born by a group of private investors who aspired to build a city that stands ahead of its time, an

all-encompassing, fully integrated residential haven that would be home to enduring and thriving communities.

The Diyar masterplan is culturally grounded, inspired

by Bahrain’s long-standing traditions, history and warm hospitality. It is a perfect blend of the country’s rich past and ambitious future, catering to Bahrain’s modern, cosmopolitan vibe and paving the way for the organic growth of close-knit communities.

In Bahrain’s evolving real estate industry, Diyar Al Muharraq has proven that innovation and anticipating consumer needs is a key formula for success. The project is unique in both scale and scope; it is one of the largest private urban developments currently taking shape in the Kingdom of Bahrain stretched over 10 square kilometres of reclaimed land. It offers a cohesive mix of residential and commercial projects, for personal and investment purposes, and aims to create a future sustainable township that will significantly contribute to the socio-economic

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development of the Kingdom of Bahrain.

Diyar Al Muharraq is not just a location, it is a landmark destination with a key differentiator; a focus on sustainable development with original concepts inspired by existing market needs and projected demands. The masterplan is guided by a sustainability framework that influences all aspects of each project, from design, to construction and environmental responsibility; the ultimate aim is to transform peoples’ lives through vibrant, resilient communities that enhance the quality of living for Bahrainis and foreigners. A key focus is its environmental responsibility; since its inception in 2006, all possible measures have been adopted, technological and otherwise, to fulfil the project’s environmental mandate and safeguard the surrounding eco-system, especially the marine life which is an integral part of this ‘new age’ city.

Diyar has operated according to international best practice, guided by a comprehensive Environmental Management Plan developed in consultation with reputed international advisors and after a series of environmental studies. Over the years great efforts have been exerted to improve its environmental accountability and preserve the surrounding environment, through international partnerships and the implementation of automated environmental monitoring and analysis systems to name a few.

Diyar is complemented by over 40 kilometres of pristine waterfront and sandy beaches and has sought to

deliver all the conveniences of a self-sustained community, making provisions for quality leisure, recreational and auxiliary facilities such as educational establishments, medical centres, retail offerings, ample parklands and greenery, hospitality and marinas. The offerings launched to date such as Sarat, Diyar Homes, Al Qamra, Deerat Al Oyoun, Marassi Al Bahrain, Dragon City and Al Bareh have witnessed tremendous response from individuals and investors, some selling out within days.

This ambitious project has also proven to be a significant contributor to Bahrain’s economy stimulating business activity on multiple fronts such as real estate, construction and infrastructure development; the concept has attracted international real estate players in the likes of Eagle Hills and Chinamex with similar collaborations planned in the future. Its strong line-up of residential projects in the likes of Marassi Al Bahrain, Dragon Apartments, Sarat, Al Bareh, and the Al Qamra Freehold, present lucrative opportunities for local and international investors whilst its emerging commercial hub inclusive of Diyar Town Centre, Marassi Galleria, Dragon Mall and Dining Village, offer attractive ROIs across multiple industries.

With the launch of Dragon City, Diyar has also opened the road for more trade opportunities, especially with China, with hundreds of Chinese companies marketing their products through the fully operational Dragon Mall, using the available warehousing facilities and established

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air and ground transportation network to reach customers in the extended Gulf. Similarly, Dragon City has become a prime destination for both locals and tourists drawing in over 500,000 visitors per month; the popularity of Dragon City is set to intensify as Dining Village comes into play, further boosting commercial investments.

Looking to the future, the Diyar story is fast unravelling, revolutionising urban development in Bahrain along its path. On-site work is progressing as scheduled with multiple projects currently underway and more planned in the near future. The first phase of Diyar Homes is almost completely handed-over and currently being populated with many families having already moved in. Phase 2 is due for completion by early next year. Construction on Marassi Al Bahrain is in full swing.

Over 90% of Phase 1 of Al Qamra Freehold has been sold-out as has been the entire Sarat project. Dragon Mall and Dragon Apartments are up and running and the Dining Village is soon to open its doors to the public.

More recently, construction work kicked off on Deerat Al Oyoun, with sales expected to launch very soon.

The Diyar Al Muharraq vision is taking shape, successfully turning concept into reality, and setting the stage for an iconic masterpiece that will undoubtedly transform peoples’ lives. www.diyar.bh

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01 Sh. Isa Bin Salman Al Khalifa Grand Mosque 02 Marassi Al Bahrain 03 Diyar Homes 04 The Diyar Al Muharraq Masterplan

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Innovation is the key to a country’s success, and with increasing numbers of developments across the island; Bahrain has been redefined as a go-to destination. Kooheji has over 40 years of experience as a leader in construction, civil engineering and design, and has made a name for itself as the Leading Luxury Residential Developer in Bahrain. Kooheji has now appointed Royal Ambassador, the upcoming leader in property management in Bahrain, to manage its properties. Durrah takes a closer look at some of these exciting new projects.

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he growth of Bahrain in real estate has developed massively throughout the years, resulting in it being one of the largest contributions to the economy. With Bahrain’s continuous goal to develop the future, it aims now to be the hub of real estate.

Bahrain’s pioneers in Real Estate development Kooheji, a leading luxury residential lifestyle developer in Bahrain with over 40 years of experience, have earned a well-respected reputation in construction, design and engineering.

According to a number of international real estate consultancies, Bahrain’s property management market has increased dramatically this year due to the high demand of luxury apartments; investors are now looking for the highest quality apartments with futuristic feel and innovative amenities to invest in.

The past 10 years, Kooheji has focused on expanding on more residential building apartments and have developed 10 successful properties across Bahrain – all known to be the highest of quality, and

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are over 95% occupancy rate, with the options of both freehold and leasing apartments. Kooheji’s current inventory status includes 1,500 apartments under management, 2,000 apartments under operation and 2,000 apartments under construction. By the end of 2016, Kooheji would have launched more exciting and extravagant projects such as Seef Avenue, and its flagship Fontana Infinity.

Today, with the worlds latest advanced technology acquired from internationally acclaimed companies worldwide, Kooheji’s projects are known to be Bahrain’s number one luxury residential lifestyle apartments with the most advanced and prestigious amenities.

One of the most exciting and exclusive projects that will soon be launched in December 2016 is Fontana Gardens, a new edition to the Fontana series of luxury residential apartments. Fontana Gardens is launching the first and only floating garden in the Kingdom of Bahrain with an exclusive jogging track on the forth floor. One of the most prominent features at Fontana

Gardens is the Golf course that was embedded and integrated into the property staging a new meaning into milestone amenities in the real estate field.

“We are not only developing apartments, we are developing a future; we focus on our investors and their benefits when they invest in any of our projects; we also look at the return on investment; so far our capital growth is up to 60% from launch till handover” Said Mr. Mohammed Abdulghaffar Al Kooheji COO of Kooheji.

“All our brands are unique. We are known as the trendsetters in the market, with the highest of quality in every project we launch,” he added.

Fontana Gardens is located in the heart of Juffair. The beautiful landscape will introduce extraordinary and rare tropical feel with spectacular waterfront views. As usual, Fontana Gardens’ amenities among which are the Gardens, Golf Course, and others are accessible by all tenants of the Fontana Series properties. Fontana Gardens

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consists of three magnificent towers named after gorgeous flowers Lotus, Violet, and Gardenia. The floating garden will be the connection between all three towers; two of the three towers are freehold while the third is serviced apartments. The views from Fontana Gardens are breath-taking; it shows a unique perspective on Bahrain, looking across the water to Bahrain’s skyline.

One of the most popular areas for luxury living is Juffair district which hosts entertainment, cultural and food bazaars; Juffair is continuously looking towards contributing to a brighter Bahrain with its ongoing developments.

Furthermore, Kooheji has appointed Royal Ambassador, the upcoming leader in property management in Bahrain, to manage its properties. Royal Ambassador ensures that each building is maintained to the highest standard; and offers services such as property management, property investment, facility management and maintenance, facility safety and security, as well as sales and marketing. From the newest concepts in

smart, customized furnishing to the most experienced management team, Royal Ambassador are pleased to offer their clients the best services available, within an ever-evolving market. Kooheji makes sure everything is maintained and this is the why all the buildings constantly look freshly designed.

“Fontana Gardens will be another success story to the Fontana series. Being in this industry for many years now, I personally think that the Real Estate market have improved in 2016 & I am sure it will continue this way in the next coming years with the amazing extraordinary building we are launching. “ Said Ms. Eman AlMannai - GM Sales & Business Development of Kooheji.

Currently, Bahrain’s continuous development ensures the kingdom’s status as an upcoming and ultimate development destination in the region offering top luxury apartments with quality furniture and full easy-access facilities.

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Venice in 1858 was an age of Risorgimento splendour, and at the height of Romanticism, Rubelli, a family firm producing and marketing luxury fabrics for top-end furnishings, saw its beginnings. Its damask, brocade, velvet, silk and lampas enjoyed fame and renown, seeing the Rubelli story span a century and more. Now in its fifth generation, it still today, as in the past, sets trends in the world of textile design with its always innovative and high-status products, making its name as a leader in Italy and ranking high worldwide.

01 Chair covered with Filarete 30151/006 and Victoria 30157/19/7/15, Rubelli Venezia collection 02 Royal box at La Fenice Theatre, Venice 03 Alla Scala Museum, Milan 04 Hotel Ca’ Nigra, Venice 05 Rubelli Head-Quarter at Palazzo Corner Spinelli, Venice

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nown historically for its production of precious fabrics as part of the Venice heritage and tradition, Rubelli has captured and anticipated trends over the years, widening and diversifying its product range in the name of innovation.

Recently, the Rubelli Group expanded the portfolio of its collections and added to its product range through the acquisition of some important brands.

Alongside the Rubelli Venezia collection – identified with luxury and high-impact fabrics with links to tradition yet also with a modern rethink – the Group took on on the brands Dominique Kieffer (French company taken over in 2001), a byword for sophisticated simplicity and a modern and original style, and Donghia (US company which joined the Group in 2005) which offers, in addition to sophisticated textiles, furniture collections, wallpaper, lamps and Murano glass. These brands were joined in 2009 by Armani/ Casa Exclusive Textiles by Rubelli, the product of a joint project signed by Rubelli with Armani/Casa, for the production and distribution under licence of the celebrated line of furnishing fabrics.

Precious fabrics in natural and prized fibres, as well as technical and flame-retardant textiles made with special yarns, as in the case of those in Trevira Cs which Rubelli uses for contract orders, more specifically in the most elegant of hotel chains, luxury spas, on yachts and the most spectacular cruise ships where strength combined with sophistication is of vital importance.

Four collections in the portfolio and four personalities making up the style of the Rubelli Group which, now as before, is still one of the key players on the international scene of high-end furnishing textiles.

The process of creation of the Rubelli collections is born of a constant search for new sources of inspiration, drawn from the historical archive or company library, which is constantly augmented in time through new and on-going acquisitions.

The museum-archive, with its 6,000 textile records of which over 3,000 fabrics produced by Rubelli right from its beginnings, the 2,000 original designs on paper and the same number of books held in the textile and art history library, is particularly invaluable to the company’s

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Special Feature 06 Alice in Wonderland 30154/006, Rubelli Venezia collection 07 Royal Palace, Milan

design department which gains inspiration from it for the patterns of each new collection.

The historical archive has also proved to be very useful in special projects, for which Rubelli is increasingly often called on to participate in the work of restoring and restyling soft furnishings in important historical homes.

By virtue of these projects and the links with the art world, Rubelli has been a member since 2002 of Intrapresae Guggenheim (sponsors of the Venice museum of the same name), since 2007 of Altagamma and since 2011, as company museum, of Museimpresa.

The creation of top-end fabrics inevitably involves the production side. Here too Rubelli is capable of bringing together tradition and innovation: the company weaving mill in Cucciago, just outside Como, encapsulates two apparently opposite yet highly synergic personalities.

On one hand is a modern, innovative and hi-tech personality and on the other, a historical personality, keeper of the ancient textile tradition, which conserves four precious handlooms from the late eighteenth century, in perfect working order. Installed in the area dedicated to the weaving museum-workshop, these historic looms were salvaged and restored to working order in 2004 to meet increasingly frequent requests from a refined and sophisticated customer base for soprarizzi; handmade velvet, a true gem of textile art.

These two personalities, modern and artisan, together with the work force of 70 assigned to weaving, go to produce yearly more than half a million metres of prized fabric, popular and famous all over the world. www.rubelli.com

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History and Heritage Alessandro Mendini is an architect, artist, designer and design manager, theorist and journalist, who is considered by many as a living legend. His multi-disciplinary work is categorically contemporary, characterised by bright colours and non-traditional shapes. After working with renowned glassmakers Venini for a number of years, Alessandro speaks to Durrah to provide his insights into this seamless collaboration.

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Interview with Mr. Giuseppe Viola, CEO of Venini Can you tell us a bit about the origins of glass making in Murano and the origins of Venini in relation to this?

How important is heritage and tradition to Venini and how do you keep these values in mind as you move forward?

The tradition of glass making in Italy dates back to the Roman age. The Romans in fact were the first to develop glassmaking techniques and artefacts. They spread those techniques over their kingdom and it developed particularly in the Venice area. At first all the glass factories were located in Venice. In 1291 the Doge decided to move all the furnaces to Murano for two main reasons: 1. There was a high risk of fire in Venice and if this happened all the ancient buildings, churches and paintings would have been damaged. By moving everything to Murano the risk of fire was limited to that island.

2. At that time it was more difficult to spread the glass techniques by leaving the island. The Doge wanted all the glassmaking techniques to remain in Murano and develop only there.

That’s how Murano became a glass-making district over the years.

Venini was established in 1921 and its founder Paolo Venini was a revolutionary character since he introduced design in the glass-making environment by 05 employing external designers, architects and artists to design new products.

With their help Paolo Venini was able to introduce new techniques and reinterpret old ones. Venini throughout the years started to cooperate with worldwide famous personalities like Carlo Scarpa, Gio Ponti, Fulvo Bianconi, Tapio Wirkkala, Alessandro Mendini, Gae Aulenti, Tadao Ando and many others.

Tradition and Heritage are two fundamentals for Venini. We have a 95-year-long history made of important co-operations, international exhibitions and introduction of design pieces that have made the history of Italian design.

We take very much care of our archives, made up of 45,000 original drawings, 10,000 pictures and 5,000 prototypes and original pieces.

We always tell our history to the new and young designers we collaborate with since we think it’s important for them to know the past history of the company in order to develop new products that can follow the design style as well as the spirit of the company.

How do you balance traditional techniques with new technologies that have been introduced?

In Murano glass making there have been no technological improvement. This means that the techniques and the tools our masters employ today are the same that were employed centuries ago. The only thing that changed is the gas that makes the oven work (once they used wood). But all the other tools are made of wood and metal and are the same that people employed in 1291 when all the furnaces were moved to Murano.

Each object is still handcrafted by the masters, and it’s something unique in the world. Glass making is still one of the few areas in which technology didn’t change the production process because it’s impossible

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01 Incisi Collection, 1956.

Designed by Paolo Venini

Glass making is still one of the few areas in which technology didn’t change the production process because it’s impossible to produce such art pieces by using technology

02 Portrait of Giuseppe Viola, CEO of Venini 03 Bottiglie Incise, 1956. Grinder glass bottles designed by Paolo Venini 04 Anni ’30, 1930, 2016 Edition.

Brand new red colour from 1930s design 05 Geacolour, 1995. Designed by Gae Aulenti one of the most famous Italian architects.

40 layers of coloured glass blown together 06 Koori, 2016. Designed by Emmanuel Babled 07 Veronese, 1921. Designed

by Vittorio Zecchin and was the first piece designed and produced by Venini

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to produce such art pieces by using technology. Those pieces have a soul, which is transmitted by the person that created that object.

How has the style of Venini developed or changed over the years?

Since 1921 Venini has been a symbol of Italian design excellence. Initially the style of Venini’s creations was inspired from the master of the Reinassence. Clean lines and soft colours were the main characteristic of the objects designed during the 20s by Vittorio Zecchin.

The style of Venini then developed, and the first revolution was made by Carlo Scarpa and Fulvio Biaconi, who brought colour into glass. Then Gio Ponti, Tapio Wirkkala and Toni Zuccheri introduced new shapes, designs and techniques. Ettore Sottsass and I brought art and architecture into Venini’s production. Gae Aulenti invented the Geacolor technique; the Campana Brothers found a way to reuse broken pieces; and Ando introduced new shapes and finishings.

Venini’s style is constantly developing without following fashions or trends, but by introducing and setting itself new trends in terms of shapes, colours and tehniques.

How did you personally first develop an interest in glass and what appeal does it hold for you?

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Glass is magical! From sand, which is itself a poor material; real art works can be created. You can experiment and introduce new materials, colours and techniques. That’s what is incredible about glass.

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Special Feature 08 Idria, 2016. Reinventing the old containment function of the vase, inspired by the Greeks 09 Espirit Chandelier, 1970. An explosion of flowers and stars in hand-blown glass

Collaborating with external designers is one of the things that sets Venini apart from other glass makers in the business. What value do you believe these collaborations have added to the business?

Venini was the first Murano glass company to collaborate with external designers. Still nowadays our company is almost the only one to create objects signed by the most famous artists, architects and designers.

This is what still distinguishes Venini from other companies.

Normally in the past in Murano, the owner of the company was also the designer and the master. Paolo Venini was the first “foreigner” (because he was from Milan and not from Venice) to own a Murano glass company and the first to bring design into glass.

I believe that is still nowadays the most important feature of Venini.

What do you look for when you undertake a new collaboration, and do you have any coming up that we should look out for?

Co-operations usually come from both sides.

Sometimes we search for the designers and sometimes they contact us directly. We search for products that complete our collections and that are innovative in terms of shapes, colours and techniques.

Venini never stops doing research. For example, lately we combined new materials with glass – such as marble and wood – like in the simbiosi collection by Emmanuel Babled.

Designers have to know glass very well before designing a new object. Glass is an unpredictable material, and you must know its chemical reactions very well. Sometimes, for example, some colours cannot be put next to each other as the glass would break.

How much are Italian values and aesthetics represented in pieces from Venini?

Venini is the symbol of Italian design. Its product combine luxury, heritage, uniqueness and quality, and all these features represent made in Italy and Italian values.

Each Venini product gets through very high quality controls before being sold, and each piece is unique since it’s handmade. Each piece has a story behind itself.

How much time goes into creating a Venini piece and how much training do the craftsmen and women who undertake this have?

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It depends on the project but from the first drawings to the first prototype it takes normally at least 3 months. This is because we want our designers to deeply understand the spirit of Venini. To produce one piece from the raw material to the finished artwork average time of production is one week.

First the mixture of the sand has to be done.

Sand is mixed with different materials such as minerals in order to obtained the colour. Once finished, the mixture is put inside the oven, where it melts for one night at a temperature of 1200 degrees Celsius. When ready, in the morning, the asters start shaping the objects, which then have to cool down very slowly. Once cold the pieces have to be polished and finished (when needed) at the cold working department. Normally all these procedures take one week.

To become a glass masters it takes at least 10-15 years of experience in a company, and special skills are required. Masters are teaching the youngest how to continue this centuries-long tradition.

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How has the market for Venini products changed over the last five to ten years and what do you think the reasons for this are?

Venini’s most important market was Italy until a couple of years ago. The brand is very strong and renowned also in Europe and in the US. Lately Venini spread also in Asia and in the Middle East.

China and India are really good markets for us and we are proud to sell Italian design all over the world.

What inspires the Venini company today?

Venini today is inspired both by its history and heritage. We are always searching for new techniques, designers, colours and shapes in order to carry on the Venini tradition.

What are your hopes for the future of Venini?

Venini will continue its tradition of important collaboration but will also involve young designers as they represent the future of international design.

We will be spreading more in foreign countries also by cooperating with local designers, architects and artists and will for sure carry on the history that Paolo Venini has started 95 years ago. venini.com/en/authors/alessandro-mendini-eng

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Artistic Perfumery

The Merchant of Venice embodies the Venetian art and craftsmanship that is inseparable from the history of one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Durrah explores The Murano Art Collection from the brand, which represents the ideal combination of perfumery with the artistic glass production of Murano.

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he Merchant of Venice emphasises the ancestral role of Venice in the world’s perfumery tradition, and it takes its inspiration from the Serenissima, its renowned craftsmanship and its century-old trade with the East.

Between the Middle Ages and the early Renaissance, the commercial system of Venice reached its maximum splendour and prosperity, and the city became the centre of trade between Asia and Europe. During this period, the Venetian merchants imported spices, textiles, silks, gems, gold, and essential oils that were then distributed throughout Europe.

The maritime trade routes were serviced by convoys of ships (mude), mainly comprising fleets of Venetian galleys, which imported and exported valuable goods and connected the main trade centres of the entire Mediterranean and Asian regions. The mude are the source of inspiration for the entire line of The Merchant of Venice, which suitably express the perfect merging of olfactory refinement and beauty.

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The unique Murano Art Collection combines the highest olfactory aspirations with the stylistic elegance of handmade vases, created in a limited edition by consummate, master glass blowers.

The fragrances are created with the most valuable and premier quality raw materials, and further enhanced by a very high perfume content that guarantees an exceptional diffusive power and persistence. Murano Art: the Venetian Perfumery Art by The Merchant of Venice.

The uniqueness of the vases in the Murano Art collection, by the Merchant of Venice, is a direct result of the highly skilful techniques and manufacturing processes employed by artisans in each and every phase of their production. In a word, these telltale features are a symbol of the uniqueness that characterises all of the products of the Merchant of Venice. Accordingly, each item is signed and belongs to a limited collection.

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Vases 01. RED VASE This vase, inspired by the painting of Paolo Veronese, is a highly crafted artwork and one of the most popular shapes of Murano glassware. Embellished with a gilded base, it ideally represents the Venetian tradition of elegance.

02. BLUE AND GOLD Blue and gold are the representative colours of Venice.

They are present in the Saint Mark’s Basilica, one of the most famous places of worship in the world.

The classic colour combination of the Bolla Blu Vase is reminiscent of the union between sun and sea, a marriage exemplified by the glittering light that plays across the surface of the water in the Venetian canals.

03. MULTI VASE Venice enchants people with its multitude of colours, especially during the Carnival, when multi-coloured masks enliven the city streets, making them joyful and exotic. The workmanship of Vaso Canne (glass pipes technique) is particularly complex and imbues the glass with an unique transparency and brightness.

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04. GREEN VASE This vase represents a classic design in the Venetian tradition. It is crafted in gilded-green, a colour created by a special copper chloride formula. Its exquisite snakeshaped decorations express the craftsmanship and attention to details that only the expertise of Murano glass blowers are able to create with such harmony.

05. RED GOLD STRIPE Red represents the Doge, the supreme ruler of ancient Venice; gold represents the everlasting splendour and majesty of the lagoon city. Masterly combined, these colours give a unique character to the Vaso Rosso e Oro, which is created by employing a highly complex technique that reinterprets a classic style through a modern key.

06. BLACK GOLD A classic shape and the refined elegance of black, coupled with gold and silver leaf, create the highest possible expression of elegance and artistic excellence in glass blowing. Vaso Nero is a classic, timeless work of art.

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Perfumes Oudelight A mystical and majestic fragrance, Oudelight reveals all its energy through the initial spicy accord of saffron, nutmeg, and cinnamon, suitably merged with an accord of oud, incense, and vetiver. This masterful combination confers a singular and deep character to the overall fragrance, one attenuated by light notes of heliotrope and vanilla.

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Secret Rose Secret Rose emulates the sensuality of Moroccan rose through an embracing fragrance that opens with a citrus burst of lime and grapefruit. Surrounded by the nobility of oud and saffron, the deep character of Moroccan rose bursts forth unexpectedly. Sandalwood, patchouli, and hints of amber represent the woody character of this refined and dreamy fragrance

Oudrageous Vigorous and embracing, Oudrageous has a powerful and vibrant olfactory signature. A continuum of spicy and woody notes harmoniously alternate to create a woody and spicy accord of olibanum and cardamom in the head note, labdanum and tobacco in the heart note, and vetiver and oud in the base note. The overall fragrance is softened and balanced by heliotrope and Tonka bean.

Leather in Nude Leather in Nude is a sensual fragrance that expresses the true essence of leather. It is an elegant and refined formula that fully expresses the strength and sensuality of leather through the delicate initial caress of apple blossoms and saffron. This harmony in the head note subsequently merges with the warm and embracing heart note of cloves and soft musk. The cedarwood and vetiver in the base note merge with a leather accord, generating an audacious fragrance.

Ardent Oud Ardent Oud is a passionate combination of unique and refined raw materials. This olfactory combination is audacious and refined: citrus notes of bergamot are masterfully merged with spicy black pepper and carrot absolute. The nobility of saffron merges with the naive note of chamomile and the woodiness of patchouli. These elements then greet the oriental and aromatic base note of vetiver, balsam spruce, and olibanum.

Myrrh Oud As a floriental note of rose, Myrrh Oud embodies the preciousness and refinement of a floral accord that is masterfully developed around rose and orange blossoms. This fragrance discloses its delicate heart note through a fresh and spicy head note of bergamot and elemi, further sweetened by liquorice. Myrrh and oud give an oriental touch to the fragrance, further embellished by the Tonka bean.

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Mohamed Melehi graduated from the École des Beaux-Arts, Tétouan, Morocco, in 1955 and has had a career that’s spanned many decades and continents. Melehi uses his cultural heritage as a primary source of inspiration, and creates unique, modern pieces with a bold and brilliant colour palette. Durrah speaks with the artist to hear more.

ith a rich career that dates back to the fifties, Moroccan artist Mohamed Melehi is known for creating unique and modern art works that are celebrated across the globe.

After graduating from his studies at the École des Beaux-Arts, Tétouan in Morocco, artist Mohamed Melehi continued his studies abroad, learning fine art in Seville and Madrid, sculpture in Rome, and engraving in Paris.

In the early sixties, he travelled to the United States, where he studied at Columbia University (with a scholarship from the Rockefeller Foundation) for two years before returning to Morocco in 1964. It was during this time that Melehi began using his cultural background and brighter colours for inspiration.

In 1969, Melehi organised the first open-air group

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exhibition, held in Marrakech medina’s Jamaa el-Fna Square, in Morocco. Eliciting much acclaim from the public and art critics, this exhibition radicalized the country’s contemporary art scene.

Melehi was Professor of painting, sculpture and photography at the Casablanca School of Fine Arts from 1964 to 1969. In 1978, Melehi and Mohamed Benaissa created the Al Mouhit Cultural Association, a non-political organisation with purely cultural objectives. The result of this venture is the Asilah Cultural Moussem, an annual festival held every summer. A highlight of the festival is the mural painting event, first held in April 1978, a project which has revitalised the formerly dilapidated appearance of the artist’s birthplace. Asilah is now celebrated for its vividly coloured murals, many of

which have been created by Melehi.

Melehi is also President of the Moroccan Association of Plastic Arts, and was the Director of Arts for the Ministry of Culture, from 1985 to 1992, and was also the cultural consultant to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Co-operations, from 1999 to 2002. He has held numerous solo exhibitions including a retrospective at the Institut du Monde Arabe, Paris, 1995, and the Bronx Museum of the Arts, New York, 1984. He has participated in group shows in Casablanca, Tangiers, Rabat, Marrakech, Baghdad, Algiers, London, Paris, Rome, Zurich, New York, Chicago and Montreal. His work is held in international museum collections such as Centre Georges Pompidou, Beaubourg, Paris, Institut du Monde Arabe, Paris, MoMA, New York, and Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art in Doha.

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02 01 Untitled, 80 X 100 cm, 2014 02 Portrait of Mohamed Melehi 03 Untitled, 2016

Interview with Mohamed Melehi 1953 was the beginning of your time at the École des Beaux-Arts in Morocco.

What influence did this environment have on your journey?

The beginning of my education in art was in Tetouan Morocco in 1953 when I was sixteen years old. This date was only eight years from the end of the Second World War. The modern style of art didn’t exist in the area where I lived; we were all polarized by the start of movements that fought for independence for those countries under colonial oppression, particularly in the Arab world and Africa as well. As a young person, like my contemporaries, I was bewildered by many discoveries and imported habits and objects coming from abroad, from chewing gum to cars to bikinis. However, I underwent two years of scholar preparation in art and became a follower of the preferred artists in the international scene.

My preference was Van Gogh first, followed by the Spanish Goya.

My training took me through different cultures following courses in Spanish, Italian and French academies from 1956 to 1962, ending in the United States of America.

After working as a special student in painting, I went on to become assistant professor in the senior year at the Minneapolis School of art, then I was finally offered to become a senior professor in painting.

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Modernist style was created in a time when it was not necessarily appreciated.

How did adopting this style make you stand out?

For the matter of what could be called modern style in my opinion, has to do with one’s culture.

For we Arabs, this matter is something I would say is alien for us, since we were aloof, especially from the industrial revolution. We know in art that the industrial revolution has influenced many artists and writers in their global approach in their creation. But from my experience and knowledge of art history, as well as my lived experiences in the arts, I created a language where I work with modern elements 03 symbols, and those contained in our traditional and

iconography. As a matter of fact, my graphic elements refer to the weave and the scale of bright colours – elements that reflect African and Arab sensitivity.

The Cultural Festival of Asilah went from being a dream to a reality. Why did you choose Asilah and the festival?

Firstly, I was born in Asilah, as was Mohamed Benaissa, the cofounder of The International Cultural Festival of Asilah before Cultural Moussem.

The idea was to honour small localities and recover their historical value, knowing that wisdom has come from aristocratic villages throughout history. Besides the importance of mega metropolis provincial localisations, are also the reservoirs of secular culture and education.

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The start of that dream adventure was to render consciousness to the inhabitants of Asilah, and concentrate on youth by the means of art. This was achieved with the first modern art murals in Morocco, and protection of the environment.

The Asilah example has now been repeated throughout the kingdom of Morocco for more than thirty years.

You have exhibited all over the globe, including our Kingdom of Bahrain. What has your experience here been like?

My exhibits throughout the world and particularly in Bahrain are great moments and bring great memories that travel with me through time.

Have you ignored the importance of the letter (alharf) in you art?

Arabic letters have had great importance to me for a period as important graphic research, but as an abstract painter I prefer to keep myself in my own symbolic expression.

Politics in the Middle East, and the so-called Arab spring period affected the whole art scene in this part of the world. Do you see any sense of modern liberation?

For the Arab Spring genome, I would say that many other ‘springs’ have to come, but in terms of art evolution, art itself was born in a spring and it is still there.

Talk to us briefly about you recent participation in the 6th Marrakesh Biennale?

The Marrakech Biennale is a program that highlights and celebrates the Moroccan artistic situation, together with similar international events.

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Bags

Impeccable Craftsmanship

Brought to life by expert artisans, Durrah presents a selection of designer bags that are visually distinctive and the ultimate accessory. Each of these striking pieces have been impeccably handcrafted from the highest quality materials, and made using techniques that have been passed down through the generations.

Borla and Lafina Collections, Sofia Al Asfoor The striking designs of Sofia Al Asfoor are Spanish made, using the highest quality leather and hardware, finished to the exceptional standard that Sofia Al Asfoor is known for. Decadent and one of a kind, the Bespoke Signature, Borla and Lafina collections can be tailored to the wearer’s personal style. The option of exotic leathers such as crocodile and ostrich are offered in a range of hues. The leathers are then precisely cut and hand dyed for the best possible finish. Every detail of the construction is expertly taken care of by the artisans, from hand stitching details to the addition of the trademark emblem, plated in 18k gold. The time consuming process can take up-to 6 months from sourcing the perfect piece of leather to the last stitch. www.sofiaalasfoor.com

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Duke Bag, Carolina Herrera Made from refined and agile Greco leather the Duke bag is a natural progression from the Duchess Collection, embracing the same character, but with an expanded offering of sizes and possibilities.

Spanish steer hide is meticulously handcrafted to obtain a bold and exquisitely perfected bag surface. A versatile, smart and simple structure is complemented by the ability to customise it with a variety of metallic initials and charms. The bag is available in more than 12 colours and patterns, with contrasting trims – each bag becomes an individual work of art, unique to its owner. A bold statement with functionality fit for everyday, the Duke bag is the perfect emblem of harmony in design. www.carolinaherrera.com/fashion/carolina-herrera/bag

St. Marc, Marc Jacobs Fall 2016 introduces the St. Marc, a refined handbag with utilitarian edge. The St. Marc blends a classic feminine shape and bold hardware to create a truly unique piece, featured on the Marc Jacobs runway in February. Balanced around the signature interlocking ‘J’s’ closure, the bag features an innovative new over-sized adjustable strap, allowing the bag to transform from a chic top-handle into a functional cross-body style. Antique brass chain-link detailing and grommets reference the ‘Downtown New York’ spirit of the collection. Complementing the dramatic proportions of the Ready-to-Wear and platform boots of the collection, the St. Marc is presented in two sizes.

Deep, saturated colours highlight the luxurious ostrich, crocodile and box calf leather offerings. www.marcjacobs.com

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Bags

Shaikha, Noof2 Bahraini designer Noof Al Shekar is the region’s rising star behind the bespoke line of handbags that has become beloved by critics and shoppers alike.

Inspired by the rich opulence of the Byzantine era and the sacred geometry in ancient Islamic art, her architecturally inspired designs are produced in limited numbers to certify the quality and exclusivity of each piece and feature exotic skins, unique precious stones and hand- dipped in 22 karat gold. The head-turning “Shaikha”, a collector’s edition, is an octagonal box clutch, featuring an antique hand-cut gemstone. The piece has become an iconic favourite, combining timeless elegance with a modern twist. “Shaikha” is the powerhouse of the collection and showcases the brand’s signature ability to elevate the clutch into a piece of jewellery. www.noofboutique.com

Cybill, Aigner This season, Aigner takes us right into the raw mountainside, where nature and wilderness meet modern architecture and civilization. The brand’s signature bag Cybill is available in black, burgundy, marine and taupe and new versions in feather grey, forest green and rosewood to perfectly match the collection’s spirit. A special version has been prepared for the Fashion Show: a large buckle shape with closing strap and zigzag ribbon in two sizes including a fluffy blanket. Several patterns are proposed for Cybill: one featuring colour and material blocking with an original striped design, one with front wood veneer, one with sewnin rings, one with a rhombus pattern created through the use of needle-punch, a soft version of shearling fur and another with Swarovski stones. www.aignermunich.com

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Amazona, LOEWE LOEWE’s Fall Winter 2016 collection is simultaneously sophisticated and cool, cut through with ashes of wit and twists of humour, showcasing the house’s technical expertise and continued redefining and refining of the modernist codes laid out over the last three seasons.

Among many bags on display, the Amazona takes the spotlight, present in three stunning new styles including a multi-pocket variation, which pairs functionality with playful aesthetics. While the new Joyce bag, with its prominent circular gold logo plate, completes the collection, an irresistible hand-painted napa neck pendant in the shape of a cat’s face anchors it firmly in the culture of our times. www.loewe.com/international_en/bags/amazona.html

The Piloutin, Louboutin The inspiration for the Piloutin was spun from one of the most magical fairy tales of all; Cinderella. This soft, treasure box of a clutch brings to mind the sumptuous pillow on which Cinderella’s enchanted glass slipper was presented. For the very special Autumn/Winter 2016 capsule collection, three signature designs bring vivid personality to the tale. Beloved design elements of the Maison Louboutin – embroidery, leopard, strass and spikes – are reimagined in unique and unforgettable ways.

Simultaneously, elements from the designer’s personal history return as muses: Paris, the city where he was born and raised, and travel, exotic voyages across continents and cultures, in which opulent and intoxicating sights further enriched his aesthetic. us.christianlouboutin.com/us_en/shop/handbags/piloutinclutch-3.html

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Bags

The Maple, Mulberry Mulberry has introduced a new tote in the first collection by Creative Director Johnny Coca. Designed with the busy customer in mind, the Maple is the epitome of an easy, useful tote – it features an open shopper-style top, and its beautiful thick leather reinforces the structure and holds an elegant line even when carrying heavier items. The Maple’s tall silhouette makes it eminently suitable to carry laptops, tablets, magazines and papers. Unlike most classic totes, the Maple also has an external, detachable pocket, useful for keeping small essentials together. Detach the pocket from the tote when the whole bag is not needed: dualfunctionality ideal for a workbag. www.mulberry.com/shop/family/maple

Chosen

by Fluke Chosen by Fluke originated with the purpose of advocating the arts in relation to precision and detail. The brand focuses on fashion accessories, using exorbitant materials for something that is long lasting, lavish and elegant. The brand appreciates art from every era and finds a way to input its elements into every piece. With Chosen by Fluke, beauty and spontaneity go hand in hand. The brand is about advocating the arts as much as it is about creating a piece of art. The importance of accuracy, attention to detail, combining old with the new, and giving customers what they want is the motto of Chosen by Fluke. www.instagram.com/chosenbyfluke

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IDEALLY LOCATED IN BAHRAIN’S CENTRAL BUSINESS AND COMMERCIAL DISTRICT. For reservations, please call:

+973 6631 0000

swiss-belhotel.com

or email us at reservationsbse@swiss-belhotel.com 099-099 Swiss Bel Advert.indd 99

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Travel

Nautical Marvel

At 361m in length, it’s longer than both the Eiffel Tower and Burj Al Arab. Spanning 16 decks, it weighs 227,000 gross registered tonnes and has the capacity to house 5,497 guests at double occupancy. In short, Royal Caribbean’s latest Oasis-Class ship Harmony of the Seas is a ship of monstrous proportions; more of a floating city than a luxury cruise liner. Durrah takes a look at this breath taking new ship and the incredible experiences it has to offer.

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s it set sail on its inaugural sea voyage in June 2016 on a western Mediterranean itinerary, Harmony of the Seas was not only the biggest ship in the world, but also one of the most luxurious.

This nautical marvel boasts spectacular on-board features, many being firsts-at-sea; something awardwinning Royal Caribbean International is renowned for.

Perhaps the most anticipated feature was The Ultimate Abyss, which at 150 feet above sea level is the tallest slide on the high seas, and will challenge the nerves of even the most daring of guests. In addition, The Perfect Storm trio of water slides twist and turn over Central Park some 10 decks below, thrilling waterbabies of all ages.

Keeping guests high in the air with a birds-eye view was the first zip lines at sea, where riders can partake in an exhilarating journey across an open-air atrium, suspended above the breath-taking neighbourhood of the Boardwalk with its family friendly activities, eateries

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and shops. Here, the young (and the young-at-heart) can ride on the full-size carousel, which has been handcrafted just for Royal Caribbean and is another fantastic first, before replenishing at one of the many cafes and restaurants including international brands.

The adventure, however, does not stop there, for guests can try their hand at a spot of rock-climbing on two 43ft tall climbing walls, which flank the open-air AquaTheater. The theatre is home to a full spectrum of awe-inducing aquatic aerial displays, while nearby the FlowRider surf simulators provide the perfect place to ride the waves.

Children are treated to days with their favourite DreamWorks characters, from breakfasts in the main dining room to special ‘meet and greet’ experiences during the day. The renowned Adventure Ocean Youth Program also offers those aged between three and eleven years an entertaining line-up of activities and games throughout the duration of their stay.

For those who prefer their holidays a little bit less adrenalin filled, rest assured Harmony of the Seas offers relaxation in droves too. Sit back and soak up the sunshine around one of four pools, or inside

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the adults-only solarium with its serene whirlpools.

Get pampered at the advanced VitalitySM Spa with it fitness centre and extensive number of treatment rooms – the largest collection at sea.

As the sun sets, the ship comes alive. Take a stroll hand-in-hand through Central Park with its bustling al fresco piazza before stopping in one of the many signature restaurants such as Chops Grille, for a bite to eat. On board Royal Caribbean guests can even enjoy restaurants featuring celebrity chef partnerships such as Jamie’s Italian by Jamie Oliver.

After dining, visit the futuristic Bionic Bar, a technology-forward venue complete with two robotic bartenders that shake, muddle and mix a wide variety of drinks made to order. In fact, Harmony of the Seas is the first Oasis-class ship to feature this photoworthy outlet.

That’s not to say that the evening ends there, for the Entertainment Place is the very beating heart of the ship after dark. Setting the stage for entertainment ensembles, Harmony of the Seas pulls back the curtain on Broadway’s hit musical Grease in the spectacular Royal Theatre. Also on

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01 The impressive ship 02 The Launchpad view from overhead 03 Wonderland dining area 04 The Sky Loft 05 View from the top 06 One of the suites

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display is a dazzling performance showcasing the theatrical grace of world-class skaters, in one of two extraordinary ice shows.

Following a day of exploring the world and its exotic cuisines and interesting cultures, there is nothing better than returning to the comfort of a private stateroom. Harmony of the Seas features 2,747 beautifully appointed staterooms that offer luxurious and comfortable accommodation, many with spectacular views out towards to the sea. With four main categories, there is something for every preference. For a real taste of luxury at sea, book into one of the stunning suites where guests can enjoy the benefits of Royal Suite Class including their very own Royal Genie, the ultimate insider, crafting exclusive one-of-a-kind experiences.

On board Harmony of the Seas, guests will find everything they want from a cruise holiday, and even more than could be imagined. Inspiring and surprising, Royal Caribbean’s biggest ship is a destination in itself, a cruise that’s unlike anything else at sea. www.royalcaribbean-arabia.com

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Masterpiece

Khalid Shahin is a self-taught artist and fine art photographer born in Hebron, Palestine, whose work combines and integrates Text-Art and Arabic Calligraphy with his abstract paintings. Shahin creates spaces with fluid boundaries employing his unique ideas to the beauty of the Arabic Calligraphy as an outstanding inspiration material and tool, in its infinitely subtle, curves and intricate patterns. Durrah catches up with the artist to hear more about his work and vision.

Unique Vision Interview with Khalid Shahin Where were your beginnings and how did your early years influence your art?

That is a very broad question, but I will try to answer it as briefly as possible…

I was born in Palestine and lived most of my life in Kuwait. My father relocated our family to Kuwait when I was just one year old and I spent 24 years of my life there.

My artistic journey began there and my talent in calligraphy and drawing was nurtured there. My father was a good calligrapher himself and that encouraged me a lot.

I come from a poor family. Buying a box of paints was a significant financial burden on my farther, so I used to save my Eid and pocket money and use it to buy the paint. I was 6 or 7 years old when I started.

I loved drawing birds and the sea, which I had access to because my home was near the coast. I also loved drawing old houses.

When I was 10 or 11 years old I became close to my school art teachers. I still remember one particular teacher called Shukri, maybe he’s still alive, but most likely he

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has passed on by now because he was in his early 50s back then. He was an amazing artist who taught me to draw detailed characters. He shared with me some of his artwork, which depicted scenes such as battlefields and the like. His work used to have a lot of characters in them.

So I used to practice drawing those scenes and this helped me in learning how to draw details.

Being a self-taught artist has advantages and disadvantages.

Elaborate on your experience.

Being a self taught artist doesn’t mean I don’t have technical experience as well because any artist, even if self taught, must teach him or herself these things through reading, attending exhibitions and many other ways. All artists must go through a process of training whether they are painters, musicians or actors.

Being self-taught gave me the freedom to unleash my imagination because I didn’t belong to any particular school, such as the romantic or classical schools.

Therefore, I didn’t have any restrictions placed on me.

Instead I came up with a specific style that I wanted to develop. Every good artist must have his or her unique ‘fingerprint’ so that when people look at the art they will immediately be able to recognise who it is that created it.

I don’t think there are many disadvantages from being self-taught. The only major one that I can think of is that studying in an arts academy is more scientific, giving the artist access to knowledge that is available at the institution. But in art I don’t think it is a major handicap, especially with the advent of new media. Artists now have access to all kinds of new information. Any piece of knowledge that you can gain in an academy, you can access through other sources. So I don’t think it was a major disadvantage, in fact quite the opposite; it helped broaden my horizons.

You spent ears in the world of branding, advertising and media. Why the move to art?

Good question.

I chose art as my profession. It is how I earn my bread.

I have no other side jobs. I create work and I sell it. This is

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my sole source of income.

I love advertising, branding and graphic design, and I consider it to be art as well. At the end of the day, all these things begin with sketches, which is art. When you start a work of art you begin with a sketch. With graphic design it is the same. You draw a sketch and then you take it to the computer and develop it I don’t’ see there being a gap between new media and CG, and traditional art. It’s all earning a living through art at the end of the day, which is my main motivation.

I count more than 225 logos for companies and government entities that I created over the years. The last project of this kind that I worked on was just a week ago. Through it four of my works will be used as covers for secondary school Arabic textbooks in the UAE. This is something that I am immensely proud of.

Your passion for calligraphy is obvious in your creations. Any reason for that?

Of course.

I’d like to answer this question succinctly.

Inserting text into paintings is a type of art which many people before me had already done, but I was unique in one way, which is that I added poetry and a written letter.

An additional dimension was added through my own technique; there are a lot of calligraphic artist but their focus is on the letters but for me the focus is on the painting and the letter complements it. People look at the paintings and then at the letters.

I love the poetry of Mahmood Darwish and have incorporated a lot of his poetry into my work. It is one of the personal touches, which gives my work its uniqueness.

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Do you use computer software and hardware in your multimedia work?

Of course. I usually use a computer in cases when clients request work and then ask to change a colour or detail. Going back to the original painting to change a colour is a very difficult thing to do, but it can be easily done using the computer.

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01 Original Acrylic - Asmahan 02 The artist - Khalid Shahin 03 Original Acrylic - Waterista 04 Original Acrylic - Celta - Maria 05 Original Acrylic - Tango

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Some things I do are created by computer originally, which is easily changed without any problems at all.

Some of my work includes tapestry, such as carpets and rugs, which incorporates a lot of Islamic patterns and Islamic geometry, and these benefit from the use of technology as well.

What do you consider some of your most important exhibitions?

There are many exhibitions that I love, two are in Dubai, but the one I care about the most is in Argentina.

I love this display a lot because it symbolises Latin American respect for Arabic art and history. One of my best works was hung at the entrance to the municipality of Buenos Aires until around 2009 or 2010 when the head of the municipality changed and it was removed.

It was bought from me by a lady called Maria Lopez. I consider being exhibited there to be one of my greatest accomplishments.

Your art moved to retail. Do you think this will affect the value of your original art?

No I don’t think so.

At the end of the day, this is my only source of income, as I mentioned earlier. I am a full time artist, so of course my art will go to retail. In fact, it is an advantage, because it gives me exposure and allows my admirers to have access to my art everywhere.

By the way, more than 65% of my work is sold to foreigners, not Arabs, which shows the respect they have for Arabic art and calligraphy, and maybe also their appreciation of some of my techniques.

I consider that the move to retail helped me to become better known. I have three distributors in US as well as distributors in Australia, London and New Zealand.

I look for opportunities everywhere to gain access to

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art brokers. I don’t see it as a handicap or a negative that affects the price of original art, not at all.

Who do you consider to be the pioneer in transforming Arabic letters into modern art?

I can’t recall who the pioneer is. For example, Hasssan Almasoudi did a lot for the art form. Please forgive me for not answering this question, because it is complex. There are many of them in all corners of the Arab world.

I try to avoid such questions because I answered a similar one before and it created a lot of offence. But I can say that there are many, some from the 70s and 80s, and there isn’t one specific person who pioneered merging text-art with calligraphy.

Have you worked with non-Arabic letters or been influenced by non-Arabic typography.

Yes, Japanese typography left a great impression on me and I love it a lot.

The Japanese care a lot about their myths and legends, and place great importance on quotations, so almost every Japanese home has a piece that incorporates Japanese typography.

Also the brushes they use to create these pieces are homemade using hair from horsetails, and they innovated a lot with inks.

It impacted me a lot when I saw these works.

Where do you see the art scene in Dubai and the Middle East ten years form now?

It’s hard to separate Dubai from the rest of the Arab World. There are some capitals that are developed in the world of art and others that are not.

One of the great things about Dubai is that they care about art at the government level. I encourage all Arab countries to put more emphasis on art. Private sector entities, such as local and private galleries, can only do so much. It requires the governments to participate.

In Dubai there are many initiatives, the most important among them being Art Dubai, which is a semigovernmental effort in cooperation with the government.

Unfortunately, in some capitals, the perception of art is very backwards, especially with the increase in religious fundamentalism that we are witnessing. Some have been taking steps away from art…

I am optimistic that, within the next 10 years, there will be positive changes. I am in my 50s and I still get daily requests from people who want to learn art. I am optimistic that the younger generation, those who are now between the ages of 10 and 18 years, will play a major role. They love art and want to learn it, which is what makes me so optimistic that things will improve and that there will be development in the arts all over the Arab World. This will help us rise above the slump we are currently experiencing.

What does it mean for you to be recognised as one of the Middle East’s most successful calligraphic artists?

It means a lot. I am one of them and not the best among them. Even after all this time, in all humbleness, I must say I that I am still learning new techniques and styles.

Life is about learning and hard work. It is a non-stop process. When a person stops working, he dies. I believe that people must continue working and, above all, love what they do. khalidshahin.me

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Fashion

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Embellished Beauty

Known for his elegant creations and refined sense of craftsmanship, designer Krikor Jabotian takes pride in presenting pieces that are both timeless and inspiring. His use of opulent fabrics communicates a message of heritage, style, tradition and innovation, and Krikor Jabotian is well known for his unique bridal creations.

Durrah speaks with the designer and takes a closer look at his Spring Summer 2015 Collection.

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ollowing his graduation from the École Supérieure des Arts et Techniques de la Mode (ESMOD) in Beirut, designer Krikor Jabotian jumpstarted his career within the creative department at Elie Saab, in an enriching experience that paved his path into the industry.

Soon after, Krikor developed independent designs and was selected by Starch Foundation, a non-profit organisation founded by Rabih Kayrouz and Tala Hajjar, to showcase his creations. His first collection, under a namesake brand, marked the beginning of Atelier Krikor Jabotian.

At the age of 23, Krikor set up his first atelier and workspace from where he designed his very first capsule collection. Atelier Krikor Jabotian quickly evolved into a family run company, transforming the small atelier into a thriving business alongside his father, mother and sister.

Ever since, the designer has been recognised for his timeless creations that delight and inspire, through unique

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and intricate attention to detail. The label is especially well known for its one of a kind bridal gowns, which are truly a work of art.

Krikor Jabotian’s Spring Summer 2015 “The Last Spring” collection consists of 12 overall looks that are inspired by the spring season that knowingly ends.

The 12 looks are mainly a structured base serving Krikor as a canvas covered with a layer of Chantilly Lace and intricate embroideries.

The specialty of the collection comes from their diverse embroideries – There are looks with embroidered pearls, full sequence, 3D embellishments and threaded embroideries.

Durrah speaks with the designer to hear more about his own personal aesthetic, where he gains inspiration, and what intrigues him about bridal design. www.krikorjabotian.com

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Fashion

Designer Krikor Jabotian jumpstarted his career within the creative department at Elie Saab, in an enriching experience that paved his path into the industry

Interview with Krikor Jabotian You were introduced to the fashion industry through your work at Elie Saab. What were some of the most valuable lessons you learned during your time here, and how did it change your perspective on fashion?

When I first started at Elie Saab, I was very closed off to embroideries; they didn’t really intrigue me as they do now. That’s one thing I learned. I learned to start loving them as I was properly introduced to the world of embroideries. I used to find it difficult, and then I realised that if it is done tastefully, you would then come up with jewellery that complements the dress. All this heightened my curiosity on embroideries and embellishments and that’s when I started to give it my personal touch and interpretation.

How would you describe your personal aesthetic?

I personally think my style is simple and balanced, although a lot of people don’t see it that way. I don’t like over doing things. The way I see things has to always emphasise one main idea.

What are some of the things in life that inspire you most, whether it is art, culture, nature or people?

One thing that definitely inspires me is music. That’s one thing I can say, but I can’t limit it down to a genre or a song. Usually each genre puts me in a certain moods, which basically inspire me accordingly. On another note, I think inspiration has absolutely no timing. You can be inspired at any time and any thing can be inspiring – beautiful things as much as ugly things. You can easily find beauty in the ugly things as well. It is just perspective.

Beauty is everyone and everything, so inspiration is everywhere you just need to keep an eye out.

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When you design who do you design for?

I design for the Krikor Jabotian Woman. A woman who has that flair of individuality. The women who are classic, and at the same time outgoing.

01 Portrait of the designer 02 Looks from the Spring-Summer 2015 Collection

You focus a lot on bridal designs in your work, what is it you love about the look and feel of bridal gowns?

Let say supposedly, a woman gets married once in a lifetime. A bride can go to any extreme. That is when a designer can put all their ideas out there and be as creative and dramatic as possible.

In what ways do you think your designs stand out from the rest?

I express myself by creating gowns, so I like making statements with what I love doing. Women at the end of the day want to look flattering, so we give them the best of both - beauty with a statement.

For me, a beautiful design isn’t always about being pretty and I don’t like pretty things. We can create something aggressive, but aggressive can be beautiful when done in the right way. The creations we have done are wearable and commercial because you do have to give the people what they want. However they are still true to who I am.

What is your biggest market, and why do you think they are most attracted to your designs?

I believe we attract brides mostly from our dramatic styles, and we all know that a wedding gown is the main centrepiece of a wedding. In more detail, our work is a take on classicism; a twisted classicism and a taste of romanticism, which we embody into our brides.

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01 A uniquely curated experience 02 Visitors to Eathai will be also spoiled for choice 03 Blending a combination of traditional and modern Thai cuisine

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As a number of striking new boutiques open their doors, Durrah explores a selection of the best, from some of the world’s top labels. Each store debuts stunning new design concepts, while presenting a full range of luxury offerings in the finest interiors.

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Eathai Central Embassy Bangkok Central Bangkok district is located in the heart of Bangkok, comprised of luxury shopping centres and department stores, including Central Embassy.

Redefining the New Luxury Shopping Experience, Central Embassy is an iconic retail landmark located in the heart of Central Bangkok that reinvents the meaning of global luxury retail and hospitality not only in Thailand, but also in all of Asia.

Aiming to be a fashion hub, leading Thai designer boutiques create special new concept stores specifically for Central Embassy. Their new appearance is matched by beautiful duplex flagship boutiques of worldclass fashion houses, with 35% of the merchandise selections including brands that have launched for the first time in Thailand. ‘Siwilai’ is the first distinctly Thai retail marketplace, sharing international fashion that compliments the Thai Lifestyle in a uniquely curated retail experience. It is known for bringing together the excitement and trends of pan-Asia, New York and Europe, mirroring the fast-paced change of pop culture

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The best and most comprehensive offering of Thai food in the world, Eathai recently expanded to an improved space of 3,550sqm

04 Eathai recently expanded to a space of 3,550sqm 05 The best and most comprehensive offering of Thai food in the world 06 A wide variety of main dishes and desserts from famous markets around Bangkok

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and socio-political tide shift worldwide. At Central Embassy, visitors will be also spoiled for choice with traditional and modern Thai cuisine in the premium Thai food arena ‘Eathai’ and other international cuisines.

The best and most comprehensive offering of Thai food in the world, Eathai recently expanded to an improved space of 3,550sqm. Highlight features include the Eathai Café for non-fussy quick eats, Krua 4 Pak zone with Thai cuisines from four regions as well as street food and original Thai dessers, Moom-Aroi zone with a wide variety of main dishes and desserts from famous markets around the Bangkok Metropolitan Region, a new 900sqm supermarket area with fresh food, dry food, non-food products, including products from the Royal Project, and community products from 4 regions, the Eathai Lifestyle Corner which encompasses a cooking library, a dessert house, and a rice shop house, and finally the impressive Issaya Cooking School.

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Harry Winston Texas The House of Harry Winston, the legendary “King of Diamonds” and international luxury brand, has announced the opening of its first retail salon in Houston. Located in the luxurious River Oaks District, the new salon showcases the breadth of Harry Winston’s exquisite fine jewellery and timepiece collections, including the rarest diamonds and gemstones available today.

“River Oaks is a prestigious shopping destination, with a sophisticated retail network that we are incredibly excited to be a part of,” said Nayla Hayek, CEO of Harry Winston, Inc. “With this opening, we are proud to bring our renowned heritage and extraordinary designs to the city of Houston for the very first time.

Harry Winston has a long history of opening salons in the most sought-after locations around the world and we could not have imagined a more fitting backdrop to continue this tradition than the exquisite open-air River Oaks District.”

Designed to capture the elegance and intimacy of a private estate, the salon reflects a contemporary

variation on the traditional Winston style. A soft taupe and grey colour palette complements the custom designed black lacquer and antique bronze furniture, with bespoke chandeliers, hand-beaded silk walls and antique accents. Dedicated areas for Harry Winston’s high jewellery, bridal, timepiece and fine jewellery collections, ensure clients receive the discreet and highly personalised shopping experience that the House is known for, while private selling rooms provide a luxurious space for the ultimate in exclusivity.

Founded in New York City, in 1932, The House of Harry Winston continues to set the standard for the ultimate in fine jewellery and high-end watch making. From the acquisition of some of the world’s most famous gemstones, including the Jonker, Hope and Winston Legacy Diamonds, to adorning Hollywood’s leading ladies on the red carpet, for over eight decades, Harry Winston has been a symbol of the best there is. www.harrywinston.com/en 09

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07 The impressive store faรงade 08 Designed to capture the elegance and intimacy of a private estate 09 A soft taupe and grey colour palette 10 Featuring black lacquer and antique bronze furniture, with bespoke chandeliers

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11 The glamorously eclectic interior 12 A trendsetter amongst furniture stores 13 A unique sense of opulence 14 The first floor showcases lounge and bedroom furniture 15 The ground floor showcases dining area furnishings and home accessories

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House of Teal Manama

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House of Teal was launched in April 2016, and has quickly become a leader in home furnishings, offering a selection that is approachable, affordable and sustainably produced.

For the first time in the Kingdom of Bahrain, a furniture store aims to be a trendsetter and a visual reference for those seeking bespoke furniture pieces at affordable prices. The store has a selection of merchandise on offer from Singapore, Portugal, Italy and the Far East.

House of Teal style is like the new kid on the block.

It reshuffles the rulebook, mixing and matching old and new, East and West, luxe and humble, showy and quiet. It invites customers to fill a space with objects they love, presenting a selection of unique finds that are guaranteed to inspire.

The liberating eclectic style of the store is appealing as well as glamorous; no two chairs match, but all of them have strong silhouettes and a sense of opulence that one seeks at home.

Each season, the talented, in-house House of Teal team of designers create an exclusive collection, collaborating with artists and independent designers both globally and locally. The brand also offers handmade and one-of-a-kind discoveries from around the world, partnering with organisations that support the development of global craft communities. Located in AL Jazeera tower, in a prime location of a 300 square meters, the ground floor showcases dining area furnishings and home accessories, and the first floor showcases lounge and bedroom furniture, all in a totally unparalleled decor and ambience, with music especially commissioned to the store by Top World known DJs. The eclectic glamour of House of Teal has filled the gap in a niche market that seeks a sophisticated design language. The store reflects this through a unique range of interiors all under one roof, with something for everyone. www.instagram.com/houseofteal

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Michael Kors London Michael Kors is pleased to announce the opening of its largest flagship store in Europe. Featuring a new design concept and located in a landmark building on renowned Regent Street, the store combines the best of two worlds: an elegant, historic façade with a sophisticated, modern interior that showcases the brand’s signature glamorous aesthetic.

The new design of the Regent Street flagship represents an evolution of Michael Kors’ signature store aesthetic. The interior features dark Macassar wood floors and tables, shelves of brushed stainless steel, Venetian wallpaper and Calacutta marble fixtures. A pale, weathered limestone “runway” leads from the entrance through the entire store. The palette of soft browns and greys, mixed with warm woods, textural finishes and luxe materials, reflects the label’s refined take on glamour while providing a modern and inviting ambience in which customers can browse, shop and enjoy the brand’s exceptional personal styling and service.

Set on three floors, the Regent Street flagship will carry every category of Michael Kors product. Distinctive design elements throughout the 16,275-square-foot store

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highlight and separate key areas of the store, lending each a distinctive character.

The ground floor is home to accessories from the brand’s Michael Kors Collection and MICHAEL Michael Kors labels, including handbags, small leather goods, watches, jewellery and eyewear. There are separate shoe salons for the brand’s two shoe collections. A striking floating staircase of clear acrylic tile embedded with lights connects the ground and first floors; the adjacent two-story wall is dedicated to Michael Kors Collection handbags. On the first floor, customers will find the brand’s ready-to-wear, with separate areas for Michael Kors Collection and MICHAEL Michael Kors, each with their own dressing rooms.

The men’s shop is located on the lower level and features custom-built, polished and blackened stainless steel fixtures with grey smoked mirrors and greymarble display cases. Black-and-white photography and custom seating, along with a full-size pool table, complete the design.

16 A pale, weathered limestone “runway” leads from the entrance through the entire store 17 Featuring dark Macassar wood floors and tables and shelves of brushed stainless steel 18 A tufted ottoman provides the perfect centrepiece

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The new design of the Regent Street flagship represents an evolution of Michael Kors’ signature store aesthetic

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Al Ghassan Motors Manama

The impressive brand new showroom covers 1100 square metres of area, in which a unique variety of Lamborghini cars on display

With its origins in Saudi Arabia, Al Ghassan Motors debuted for the first time in Bahrain since 2009. The dealer is proud to be recognised as the Kingdom’s sole importer and agent for Automobili Lamborghini.

Al Ghassan Motors have also made a name for themselves as dealers for outstanding luxurious brands in motors, such as Bentley, Ferrari Aston Martin and Infiniti. With its brand new showroom being launched in the heart of the business hub – Al Seef District in the Kingdom of Bahrain – Al Ghassan Motors focuses furthermore on pursuing it’s ethics and fulfilling customer’s expectations.

The impressive brand new showroom covers 1100 square metres of area, in which a unique variety of Lamborghini cars and official merchandise are on display.

19 The Kingdom’s sole agent for renowned motor brands 20 The commanding store front 21 The Lamborghini showroom has been designed and built by reputed professionals

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Al Ghassan Motor’s brand new upcoming Lamborghini showroom has been designed and built by reputed professionals, focusing of the highest standards of quality that covers every detail. The second floor of the showroom has plans to soon be launching its very own Lamborghini Club, where Lamborghini owners are automatically enabled as members of the club, and will have the chance to avail themselves of exclusive benefits.

Al Ghassan Motors is also proud to debut its exclusive and brand new “Configuration Setting” option, which will be available in its new showroom. This option allows customers to actually customise and personalise their very own Lamborghini cars, adding an extra element of individuality and expression to their automobile. www..alghassanmotors.com

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22 Focus of the highest standards of quality covers every detail

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23 The impressive showroom covers 300 square metres of area

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A city like no other, Venice has been captivating visitors with its unique beauty since it was founded in the 5th century. Spread over 118 small islands, the entire city is an extraordinary architectural masterpiece with works from the most famous artist like Titian, Tintoretto, Giorgione and much more. No matter how often its shown in photos and films, the real thing is more exquisite than you could ever imagine.

Cultural Haven

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ith canals where streets should be, the water in Venice shimmers everywhere. A multitude of fabulous palaces and churches reflect centuries of history in what was a wealthy trading centre between Europe and the Orient. Getting lost in the narrow alleyways is a quintessential part of exploring Venice, but at some point guests will almost surely end up in Piazza San Marco, where tourists and locals congregate for a coffee and chat.

Most visitors to Venice enter into a world of the past, and the city seems more suited to life in the 18th century than to the exigencies of modern life. Nevertheless, Venice is also a centre of contemporary artistic creativity. There is, of course, the Biennale dell’Arte, Venice’s biannual international festival of contemporary art, its annual festival of cinema on the Lido, and the Biennale dell’Architettura. Even more significant for everyday life in Venice, however, is one of the first things visitors see when they enter the city: the elegant and graceful bridge crossing the Grand Canal and linking the bus station at Piazzale Roma with the train station, by noted Spanish contemporary architect Santiago di Calatrava. At the other end of the Grand Canal is Tadao Ando’s inventive

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remodeling of the 17th-century customs depot to house contemporary art.

Perhaps it’s a matter of character that Venice, a city whose beauty depends so much upon the effects of shimmering, reflected light, also developed glass – a material that seems to capture light in solid form – as an artistic and expressive medium. There’s not much in the way of a practical explanation for the affinity, since the materials used to make glass, even from earliest days, have not been found in the Venetian lagoon. They’ve had to be imported, frequently with great difficulty and expense.

Glass production in the city dates back to the earliest days of the Republic; evidence of a seventh or eighth-century glass factory has been found on Torcello. Glass was already used as an artistic medium, employing techniques imported from Byzantine and Islamic glassmakers, by the 11th century. Visitors can see surviving examples of early Venetian glass in the tiles of the mosaics of San Marco. Glass studios such as Venini, Pauly, Moretti, and Berengo make up the premium line of Venetian glass production. These firms all have factories and showrooms on Murano, but they also have showrooms in Venice.

When in Venice, one of the key must-sees is the Piazza San Marco. Perhaps nowhere else in the

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world gathers together so many of man’s noblest artistic creations. The centrepiece of the piazza is the Basilica di San Marco, the most beautiful Byzantine church in the West, with not only its shimmering Byzantine Romanesque facade, but also its jewel-like mosaic-encrusted interior. Right next door is the Venetian Gothic Palazzo Ducale, which was so beloved by the Venetians that when it burnt in the 16th century, they rejected projects by the greatest architects of the Renaissance and had their palace rebuilt come era, dove era—exactly how and where it had been. Across from the Palazzo Ducale is Sansovino’s elegant Biblioteca Marciana, which master architect Palladio deemed “beyond envy.”

No one forgets their first trip down the Grand Canal upon visiting Venice, and the sight of its magnificent palaces, with the light reflected from the canal’s waters shimmering across their facades, is one of any world traveller’s great experiences.

A favourite Italian pastime is the passeggiata (literally, the promenade), and in Venice, the favourite place for this is the Zattere, the southern walkway of the city, facing the Giudecca. In the late afternoon and early evening, especially on sunny weekends, groups stroll the Zattere. It’s a ritual of exchanged news and gelato eating that adds up to a uniquely Venetian experience.

Another must-do when in Venice is a visit to the greatest museum in northern Italy, the Gallerie dell’Accademia. The place is a treasure trove of Venetian masters: Titian, Veronese, Tintoretto, Tiepollo, Bellini, Giorgione, and Carpaccio are all represented by some of their finest work. After a visit here, visitors understand why art historians are so enamoured of the way Venice’s great painters used colour.

The key ingredient to sample at a Venetian restaurant is fish, even for those who are not

01 The famous Grand Canale view from Rialto Bridge at blue hour 02 Colorful houses in Burano 03 Night view of Rialto Bridge and Grand Canal 04 View of traditional Gondolas on the Grand Canale, with historic Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute in the background

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Most visitors to Venice enter into a world of the past, and the city seems more suited to life in the 18th century than to the exigencies of modern life

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normally seafood lovers. With the fresh fish caught daily, the best restaurants proudly assure guests they don’t even have a freezer on the premises.

For centuries, locals have gathered at neighbourhood spots to chat and eat scrumptious cicchetti (bite-size snacks) as a Venetian tradition.

Crostini (toast with toppings) and polpette (meat, fish, or vegetable croquettes) are popular cicchetti, as are small sandwiches, seafood salads, baccalà mantecato, and toothpick-speared items such as roasted peppers, marinated artichokes, and mozzarella balls.

As a first course, Venetians favour the creamy rice dish risotto al onda (“undulating,” as opposed to firm), prepared with vegetables or shellfish. Pasta is accompanied by seafood sauces, too: pasticcio di pesce is lasagna-type pasta baked with fish, usually salt cod, and bigoli is a strictly local pasta shaped like short, thick spaghetti, usually served in an anchovy sauce, or with squid-ink sauce.

Hotels in Venice can be found in abundance,

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with a number of options to choose from. Most Venice hotels will be traditional in style, making good use of their surroundings and entering into the romance of the city with vigour. The closer their location to the Grand Canal, the more in demand they get. Just minutes from the Salute Vaporetto stop, the Ca Maria Adele is a lush boutique hotel that has Old World Venetian charm. Its beamed ceilings meet lavish furnishings as part of its eastern theme.

One of the most exclusive hotels in Italy and one of Europe’s finest, Belmond Hotel Cipriani is hidden by a thick barricade of trees, and is located on the tip of Giudecca. It has been the number one choice of luxury location since 1958.

Few places can lay claim to such a spectacular natural setting and untainted architectural heritage as Venice does. Experience this beloved city indepth and all that it has to offer.

05 Selection of Venetian carnival masks. Masks were worn in Venice to disguise the wearer from illicit activities 06 Gondolas moored by Saint Mark square with San Giorgio di Maggiore church

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No one forgets their first trip down the Grand Canal upon visiting Venice, and the sight of its magnificent palaces

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ME Milan Il Duca, Milan ME Milan Il Duca is located in the centre of Milan, in one of the largest Italian squares named Piazza della Repubblica, which was built in 1865 to house Milano’s central railway station. The hotel is a fusion of traditional and contemporary Italian design with seductive furniture, neutral colours and urbane textures, combining elegance with ME by Meliá’s four experience concepts to create a stimulating atmosphere and stay.

The hotel offers 132 rooms modern in design, including 34 suites, 32 of which are Chic suites, plus the Personality Suite, Presidential Suite, which can be combined to form the Suite ME. It is the ideal choice for both business and leisure travellers, with amenities designed to exceed guest expectations, such as private terraces, high quality linens, 01 rain showerheads and other such luxuries.

Overlooking Piazza della Repubblica, Suite ME is an 02 extraordinary location for private events, with its 199 m2 thanks to its private terrace and kitchen facilities. The suite is split into three zones with a living area that can seat 20 people, a pool table for games and a large imperial dining table for entertaining. The bedroom can be isolated from the communal area to create the ultimate privacy.

ME by Meliá provides guests with an Aura service, which is designed to connect the hotel with the traveller and staff. The brand brings this to life through smells, light effects, hotel energy, music that ignites your soul, and bringing dreams to life.

Each ME by Meliá hotel has a dedicated Aura Manager, who devotes all their attention to making the stay of each and every guest a memorable one by satisfying every desire and anticipating every need. From business travellers to celebrities, the team at Aura will deal with all requests, from booking the best restaurant in the city, to organising exclusive access to shops and sourcing custom cushions.

ME Milan Il Duca boasts the first Italian branch from contemporary restaurant STK, an established favourite amongst international diners. STK Milan’s menu offers a selection of steaks and grills in an elegant setting. Located on the tenth floor and accessible via an exclusive express lift, Radio Rooftop Bar offers spectacular panoramic views of the Milanese skyline, including the new towers in the Garibaldi area. Il Giardino del Duca is the outdoor restaurant for guests offering a wide selection of dishes throughout the day, from breakfast, lunch and dinner, with STK providing the à la carte menu from 6pm daily. www.me-by-melia.com

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Step into extravagance and elegance with these leading international hotels, which combine a classic sense of luxury with the ease of modern comfort. With a range of services, suites, dining hotspots and spa and event offerings, you can be assured to enjoy the best experiences in the world’s top locations.

02 ME Suite living room 03 Chic Suite marble bathroom 04 ME Suite bedroom 03 04

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Enchanting Escapes

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Located on the third floor of the prestigious, luxury hotel in Monaco, the Maserati Pop-Up Suite offers an exceptional view of the sea and of the iconic Casino de Monte-Carlo

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05 The suite features elegant grey tones 06 The bedroom reflects the style of Modena’s automotive brand

Maserati Suite, Hôtel de Paris, Monaco From 1st July to 30th September 2016, Hôtel de Paris in Monaco has launched a partnership with Maserati.

During the renovations of Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo, the hotel invited the most prestigious designers to take up Suite 321-322, to create a space where two synonymous brands collaborate to reach new heights.

The synergy between the two brands started on 19th May 1957. After an epic race, Juan Manuel Fangio masterfully won the Monaco Formula 1 Grand Prix, and his victory marked a significant moment in time for Maserati on the Monaco circuit.

After almost sixty years, both brands have decided to celebrate their connection and heritage with the Maserati Pop-Up Suite at Hôtel de Paris.

Maserati – with its Trident logo – has forged its success in excellence. They have built their international reputation on their distinctive, highly creative style, and this is seen in the design of the Pop-Up Suite. Created

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07 Maserati publications on display in the office 08 No effort has been spared in creating this dream décor

by L + R Palomba (Ludovica and Roberto Palomba), rising stars in the world of Italian interior design, the suite transcends style with pure, elegant grey tones and precious materials; it is obvious no expense or effort has been spared in creating this dream décor.

Located on the third floor of the prestigious, luxury hotel in Monaco, the Maserati Pop-Up Suite offers an exceptional view of the sea and of the iconic Casino de Monte-Carlo. In decorating such an idyllic location, the young designers’ immense talent and imagination had no limits. In the understated yet elegant living room, the designers created a central pillar – from which the surrounding spaces branch out – highlighting a resolutely modern lifestyle. “Absolute minimalism” are the keywords here, where exquisite lines, Maserati’s timeless elegance, and the Hôtel de Paris’s excellent services converge.

The bedroom reflects the style of Modena’s automotive brand. An impressive refined fabric headboard by Ermenegildo Zegna embellishes the wall, while the grain leather armchairs resemble the interior of Maserati’s sumptuous saloons.

The exclusive package includes airport transfers, a Maserati GranCabrio, the Trident Marque’s fourseater convertible, at the guests’ disposal to drive during their entire stay, breakfast, a buffet of Modena-style dishes, and guests staying for three nights or more can enjoy a free cryotherapy session at the Thermes Marins Monte-Carlo.

Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer delivers a unique experience combining luxury, well-being and gastronomy, and offers to its customers a worldunique resort. www.montecarlosbm.com

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Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok Located on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok has been an inspiration to a host of world-renowned writers from Joseph Conrad, Somerset Maugham to Barbara Cartland and John Le Carre. Voted the world’s best hotel by readers of influential magazines, Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok boasts an international reputation for splendid service and facilities.

Built in 1876, the hotel has long been famous for its service, style and grace. With 393 luxuriously appointed rooms including 35 suites, the hotel boasts three Wings: The 16-storey River Wing housing the Royal Oriental Suite, Selandia and Siam Suites and two-bedroom suites; the Old Wing or Authors’ Wing where the four famous Heritage Authors’ Suites are located; and the Garden Wing boasting a selection of unique split level Premier Rooms overlooking the River and the main swimming pool. The hotel’s private teakwood shuttle boats provide daily access to the world famous Thai Cooking School, the hotel’s Thai restaurant, the award-winning Oriental Spa and Health Centre located across the River; as well as the nearest skytrain station (Saphan Taksin) and River City Shopping Centre.

Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok has eight restaurants – Le Normandie, Bangkok’s finest French dining venue; The China House with its avant-garde 1930s Shanghai Art Deco interior; Lord Jim’s, featuring daily talk-of-the-town seafood buffet lunch galore and a la carte menu for dinner; The Verandah Coffee

09 The impressive hotel lobby

Shop; BBQ Riverside Terrace; Sala Rim Naam Thai Restaurant, revived into a mini palace serving a lavish Thai Buffet Lunch spread daily and set dinner with Thai Classical dance show nightly; the outdoor Terrace Rim Naam featuring a la carte Thai menu; and Ciao, an outdoor Italian bistro (seasonal). The historical Authors’ Lounge serving superb Afternoon Tea and The Bamboo Bar, touted to be the best jazz venue in town complete the picture.

The Oriental Spa which opened as the first city spa in Bangkok in 1993, and has since garnered numerous awards from the most esteemed travel and beauty publications worldwide, is a temple of well-being offering a unique Thai-style health and beauty centre, featuring the latest spa techniques in a traditional Thai setting. Also on offer is an exclusive range of healing and natural rituals and rejuvenating. On hand to give consultations and present tailor-made yoga sessions is a yogic lifestyle trainer direct from India.

Other facilities include the Sanook Sanook Kid’s Club, the latest touch button, state-of-the- art technology Business Centre, the Oriental Corner and the Oriental Boutique; two outdoor swimming pools, tennis and squash courts, shopping arcades including a flagship Louis Vuitton store, a beauty parlour and barber shop, a fully equipped Health Centre, function rooms and conference facilities and The Thai Cooking School and Thai Culture Programme.

10 The bright conservatory 11 The Royal Suite bathroom 12 The Ambassador Suite bedroom

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Hotel Casa Fuster, Barcelona 13 Café Vienés restaurant 14 The café is a renowned meeting spot 15 Senior Suite living room area 16 Senior Suite bedroom 17 Modernist-style bathroom

Hotel Casa Fuster is a five star luxury hotel located in the Paseo de Gracia 132 in Barcelona. Built in 1908 and fully renovated in 2004, the building the hotel is located in was born from the renovation of the emblematic Modernist building known as “Casa Fuster”.

This was designed by the famous Catalan architect Lluís Domènech i Montaner, whose Modernist works have been declared World Heritage Sites by UNESCO. The Hoteles Center chain acquired the building in 2000 rehabilitated it using the utmost respect to the building’s originality while at the same time optimized the spectacular architectural singularity. The hotel opened its doors in 2004.

Offering excellent service that is second to none, the hotel pays attention to all the finest details, putting needs of the clients first. Hotel Casa Fuster offers accommodation in Barcelona with ​105 rooms decorated in warm and natural tones. The large windows allow natural light to flood into the rooms, all of which are decorated with materials of the highest quality such as cherry wood. Its exclusive designer furniture follows traditional Modernist-style guidelines and it is combined with contemporary designer items.

The Casa Fuster Hotel has several spaces with personality where food, culture and Entertainment merge to create a unique experience. Its excellent and one of a kind architecture that creates an ideal atmosphere for all kinds of events and celebrations.

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The Galaxó Restaurant is where guests can enjoy a modern Mediterranean menu made with seasonal fresh produce in a select atmosphere. It offers a culinary experience that will awaken the senses; a fusion between a successful execution and an elegant presentation that is rich yet simple at the same time.

After the building’s renovation, “Café Vienés” regained its maximum splendour as a historical location for famous intellectual discussions, which had gathered important figures such as the poet Salvador Espriu.

Today, the café preserves its character and soul as a meeting point for hotel guests, artists, intellectuals and locals who look for a quiet and unique setting. Every Thursday Café Vienés transforms into an exclusive Jazz Club, where great artists such as Woody Allen and his clarinet, the Yoshida Brothers, Eddy Davis, Conal Fowkes, Doc Scalon Trio, New Orleans Rag Trio or the Barcelona Swing Serenaders among others have played on its stage.

The modernist grandeur and beauty of the panoramic terrace of Hotel Casa Fuster Luxury Grand Monument offers the most exclusive atmosphere in the Catalan capital. It is a space designed to escape the heat and enjoy the summer nights with the sea breeze, with the best views of Barcelona at your feet. www.hotelcasafuster.com

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Travel and Leisure

San Clemente Palace Kempinkski, Venice Right on the doorstep of Venice, on the private island San Clemente, there is the San Clemente Palace Kempinski. Lush gardens, antique court yards, a historic church built in the 12th century, this place takes guests on a journey in time.

Crossing the historic waters of Venice, this boat ride is already an exceptional experience, which gets visitors in the mood for an outstanding stay.

There are 190 rooms and suites providing privacy and relaxation – surrounded by a lavish park or with views of the impressive skyline of Venice, the lagoon or the Lido. Classic decor, warm colours, the traditional high ceilings and the unequally spacious aisles, meet typical Venetian elements always recalling historic times.

Three restaurants and three bars serve the culinary delights – always following the traditions of the world-famous Italian cuisine.

The restaurant Insieme is dedicated to providing a perfect start to the day and a diverse breakfast offer. The gourmet restaurant Acquerello offers modern creations and Venetian haute cuisine with a breathing view.

La Dolce is set in the park of San Clemente Palace Kempinski and also stands for Italian classics.

The private island boasts various leisure facilities and therefore is the perfect place for relaxation and action alike: there is a tennis court and a golf course,

a heated outside pool, a jogging trail and the Kempi kids’ club.

And if guests decide to go for lively Venice instead of serene San Clemente, there is a free-of- charge shuttle boat going from the hotel to Piazza San Marco every thirty minutes.

The rooms and suites exist in thirteen different categories – making a city or culture trip a real treat for both body and soul at the same time. All have views of Venice and the lagoon, the park and the gardens of San Clemente or the romantic inner courtyards. The traditional high ceilings provide an even more spacious feeling, while Venetian terrazzo floors, Murano lights, fine wallpapers and Italian marble bathrooms pay tribute to the lagoon city and its history.

A unique combination of conference rooms, outdoor areas and closeness to lively Venice makes San Clemente a versatile place for meetings, product presentations, incentive trips and team buildings.

While the perfect destination for a day trip with its cultural and sightseeing attractions is just a short boat ride away, the island itself provides the calmness and privacy for creative ideas and new food for thought. www.kempinski.com/en/venice/san-clementepalace-kempinski

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18 The San Clemente Suite bedroom 19 The hotel’s private dock 20 The San Clemente Suite bathroom 21 The San Clemente Suite living room

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Spas

01 Turkish hammam 02 The Hammam lounge area 03 Ananantara spa walkway

Anantara, The Palm Dubai Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort is the UAE’s ultimate urban escape, offering the perfect destination for wellness and relaxation.

The two-tier spa, which offers a luxurious Asian inspired sanctuary, has recently re-opened with an additional six treatment rooms, bringing the total to 24, as well as new male, female and couples’ hammam facilities.

On the ground floor, spa guests already have access to six single treatment rooms with showers, two beauty rooms, a Thai massage suite, a holistic cocoon room, an Ayurveda suite and three couples’ suites, each of which feature a Serali steam bath, experience showers and an infinity solo pool bath.

On the first floor, the single treatment rooms have doubled to eight, along with the addition of two new 34-square metre couples’ massage rooms with built in sauna, showers and whirlpool featuring Microsilk technology.

The Turkish-styled hammam offers separate male and female facilities as well as relaxation areas, changing rooms, a dedicated couples’ hammam, reception, and a boutique where guests can purchase their favourite spa products.

“We are the first spa in the region to introduce Microsilk technology, the bathing experience beauty experts are calling ‘the Fountain of Youth’. Guests will have the option to upgrade their hammam 01 experience and enjoy the oxygen-rich microbubble bath, which is a patented process that supersaturates the water with billions of bubbles, raising oxygen levels up to 70% higher than common tap water, increasing metabolism and promoting the growth of skin cells,” said JeanFrancois Laurent, General Manager, Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort.

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Enticing guests with a distinct blend of serenity and splendour, these spa offerings from leading locations around the world offer an escape like no other. Combining ancient and contemporary techniques with expert knowledge from around the world, all destinations offer treatments specially designed to meet the needs of each individual.

Radiance and Relaxation

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Spas 04 Relaxation and care area 05 Swimming pool 06 Outdoor Jacuzzi 07 Overlooking spectacular views

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Thermes Marins, HOtel de Paris Monte-Carlo Suspended between sky and sea, the Thermes Marins Monte-Carlo’s pink marble building gives guests a feeling of time standing still, for an unforgettably rejuvenating journey. Stretched toward the sea, each space complements the beauty of the landscape; the fascinating Mediterranean light and colours that change with time; sapphire and turquoise, ultramarine with emerald. It is a sight to savour from the landscaped solarium terrace, panoramic fitness room, outdoor jacuzzi or even “L’Hirondelle” restaurant and its terrace. Echoing this, only the finest materials, including oak and mahogany, interact with sleek shades. With an immaculate white backdrop, silver and mosaic designs form rays of light around the vast seawater pool when the backlit blown glass resting on pillars and walls displays a delicate interplay of transparencies evocative of the reflection of waves.

In tune with this setting, a signature scent provides further olfactory escape.

Bergamot and sunny orange blossom mingle with balsamic notes of cypress, pine resin freshness and sensuous jasmine. For its guests, the Thermes Marins Monte-Carlo embodies the Mediterranean essence, captured here and there for pure pleasure.

For the decor, “the combination of silver and azure mosaic canalizes controls and makes the light shine hour after hour. In the wet zones such as toilets, treatment rooms and swimming pool, white dominates, matt, satin, glitter, powder. It symbolises light, purity, it is the resultant of the mixture of all solar spectrum,” describes Olivier Antoine. “So, the major part of floors in dry areas is treated in parquet, the wood bringing a vegetable, natural, warm, reassuring and almost carnal note. A multitude of wall lamps and pilasters were arranged in strategic places.” www.montecarlosbm.com/wellness-sport/ relaxation/thermes-marins-monte-carlo

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Spas 08 Warm spa interior 09 Winding spa stairs 10 Stunning water feature

The Oriental Spa, Mandarin Oriental Bangkok The Oriental Spa is the first spa to open within a hotel property in Bangkok. Since its opening debut in 1993, the award-winning Spa has been widely recognised as a pioneer in the Thai spa industry. Its initiative to provide an all-encompassing spa experience that couples traditional 2,000 year-old Thai holistic teachings with contemporary philosophies creates a harmonic ambience that is both nurturing and rejuvenating.

Located alongside the Chao Phraya River far away from the city din, the Oriental Spa is housed in a classical Thai-style 4-storey building made from golden teak wood. The interior was designed by John Morford. Each of the 14 private suites promises relaxation and renewal upon entering their doors.

Brand new addition to The Oriental Spa is the specially prepared Spa Cuisine menu filled with a delicious selection of healthy dishes. Only using organic ingredients and Thai herbs, the dishes are carefully selected to restore balance and replenish the body’s energy.

The Oriental Spa has been visited by VIP guests including HRH Crown Prince Federick, Earl Spencer, Boris Becker, Elizabeth Taylor, Pierce Brosnan, Goldie Hawn, David Beckham, Demi Moore.... and continues to attract guests from around the world, some travelling thousands of miles for the ultimate experience of rejuvenating the body, mind and soul. www.mandarinoriental.com/bangkok/luxury-spa

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Located alongside the Chao Phraya River far away from the city din, the Oriental Spa is housed in a classical Thai-style 4-storey building made from golden teak wood

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Spas

The COMO Shambhala Detoxifying Skin Treatment detoxes and revives tired skin with an invigorating treatment designed to help improve circulation and skin tone

COMO Shambala, Bangkok COMO Shambhala is an award-winning wellness concept developed as a sister brand to COMO Hotels and Resorts. The pursuit of balance is central to the approach, the word Shambhala translating as ‘peace’ in Sanskrit.

The COMO Shambhala resort experience combines Asian-based therapies, nutrition, exercise and yoga with a results-driven agenda managed by experts in holistic health. Weight loss, anti-ageing and stress management can all be addressed while staying in a spectacular part of the world. Facilities are state-of-the-art and usually include yoga rooms, Pilates equipment, hydrotherapy and Ayurveda. The flagship retreat is COMO Shambhala Estate in Bali, an award-winning wellness resort in Bali.

Popular treatments include the Thai Massage, which is a traditional treatment that unblocks trapped energy and improves vitality. Often referred to as passive yoga, it incorporates yogalike stretches that loosen joints and balance major muscle groups of the body.

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The COMO Shambhala Detoxifying Skin Treatment detoxes and revives tired skin with an invigorating treatment designed to help improve circulation and skin tone. Using the spa’s signature products to exfoliate and moisturise, this efficacious therapy stimulates lymph flow to restore a healthy glow.

COMO Shambhala Cuisine has been developed by the COMO Group’s Executive Chef Amanda Gale for those seeking better health through nutritional, low-calorie eating. Largely organic and often locally sourced, the cuisine replaces refined foods with naturally occurring sugars, and bad fats with nutritious nuts and oils.

COMO Shambhala also produces a range of skin and body care products, COMO Shambhala At Home, made from all-natural ingredients. COMO Shambhala Active Living is the company’s resort and active wear line, launched in 2007. www.comohotels.com/metropolitanbangkok/ wellbeing

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11 Shambhala tea service 12 One of the couple treatment rooms 13 Urban Escape treatment room

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Dining

Delicious dining is taken to the next level with this selection of restaurants from around the world, which embody sophistication in every element. Beautiful interiors are matched with dishes that will delight and surprise guests, for an experience like no other.

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Basta 23, Manama Basta 23 is a restaurant located in the Kingdom of Bahrain that has been offering the masses Middle Eastern cuisine for the past three years.

The ambience at the restaurant depicts graffitistyle Arabic slogans, old posters of artists and advertisements from the late 1900s. The restaurant serves traditional Middle Eastern food for breakfast, lunch and dinner all under one roof.

The restaurant has been named after the ‘BASTA’ gathering amongst family and friends combined with the owner‘s lucky number 23.

The restaurant’s first branch was opened in 2011 in Durrat Al Bahrain, followed by a second branch in Riyadat Mall. Since then Basta 23 has successfully opened its third branch in Riffa Views last year.

The idea behind the restaurant was to have pure Bahraini cuisine from breakfast to dinner in a traditional setting. The complete branding and marketing was undertaken owners Amer AL Khan and his wife.

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01 Decadent delights at Basta 23 02 Grafitti styled Wall 03 aboulleh/Quinoa salad/fattoush

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Dining

The menu of Basta 23 was conceptualised by the owners along with family members teaching the chefs how to authentically create the homemade dishes. Appetisers such as cheese and vegetable samboosa are on offer, including breakfast favourite Shakshoukeh and lunchtime favourite safi with mahammar. Dinner options include the popular Tikka Kebab, as well as the sandwiches that are served at the restaurant. The Bahraini dishes have been perfected with the owners adding their personal touch to the recipes.

The growing success of Basta 23 in Bahrain has led to the expansion of the restaurant to other gulf countries. The restaurant is already expanding in the Middle Eastern region and has gained a lot of appreciation from consumers locally and interstate that visit Bahrain for business or leisure.

Basta 23 thus has successfully established and created a niche for itself in the market segment of offering traditional Middle Eastern cuisine. www.instagram.com/basta23bh 04 Traditional Interior at basta 23 05 Chicken cream rice 06 Shakshooka 07 Chicken Biryani

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Dining

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08 Exquisite dining setting 09 Mini burger selection 10 Coconut fried halibut 11 Tomahawk ready for cooking 12 Beef Gravlax

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Located right in the heart of the modern Porta Nuova district in Milan, STK is an exciting and unique concept created by The ONE Group

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STK Milan 12

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Blending the concept of a modern steakhouse and chic lounge into one, STK Milan offers a dynamic, fine dining experience with world-class service. The restaurant distinguishes itself by focusing on creating a positive social experience, with a sleek contemporary design and an in-house DJ creating high-energy vibe.

The menu features reimagined classic American cuisine with signature dishes on offer including bite-sized Lil’ BRGs made with Wagyu beef, Mac & Cheese and USDA Prime quality steak.

Located right in the heart of the modern Porta Nuova district in Milan, STK is an exciting and unique concept created by The ONE Group.

The venue’s energetic atmosphere can be experienced from either the lounge or restaurant

area. For those who wish to enjoy the warm Milanese weather, a 40-cover alfresco dining area, located in the hotel’s courtyard, will serve the STK á la carte menu from 6pm daily.

STK’s signature dish is the USDA Prime and diners will be able to tailor their meal to their preferred size and cut of meat, topping, side and sauce. For those who wish to sample a plate from the grilled menu, dishes include an almond crumb of lamb; yuan glazed black cod and veal sweetbreads.

A live DJ every night provides enthralling entertainment, to ensure that each evening the atmosphere is tailored to the guests. www.stkhouse.com

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Dining

Yoshi, Monte-Carlo With the desire to share his contemporary vision of Japanese cuisine in France, Joël Robuchon decided to open Yoshi, his first and only Japanese restaurant, at the Hotel Metropole Monte-Carlo in 2008. Recognised for its culinary excellence worldwide, the restaurant was awarded a Michelin star in 2010.

“Proposing the exceptional in all simplicity is undoubtedly the most challenging task,” says Joël Robuchon. “In Monaco, we are fortunate to have a discerning clientele who seek natural simplicity and Yoshi’s success fulfils this quest.”

Featuring an open kitchen and sushi bar, the restaurant, designed by French interior architect, Didier Gomez, Yoshi embodies chic and understated décor, blending ebony, stone and silk with soft lighting in hues of green, white and ivory. Large enough to seat up to 40 guests, Yoshi opens out to a Japaneseinspired garden, which consists of protective greenery

designed by landscaper, Jacques Messin.

The light, serene atmosphere is complemented by menu items such as Miso-Katsu, Ebi Shinjo and Foa Gura To Unagi. Serving the freshest sushi, maki, sashimi, teppan-yaki meat and fish, diners can enjoy their meal with a pairing of Japanese green teas.

Collaborating with Japanese chef, Takeo Yamazaki, Joël Robuchon’s vision for Yoshi was to create a restaurant with healthy, modern cuisine with signature Japanese offerings that is also carefully adapted Western palate.

Just 15 months after its grand opening Takeo Yamazaki and Joël Robuchon’s collaboration was crowned with a star in the Michelin Guide and continues to remain one of the most sought-out dining venues in Monaco. www.joel-robuchon.com/en/restaurants-monacoyoshi.php

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13 Featuring an open kitchen and sushi bar 14 The chic and understated dĂŠcor 15 Zeitaku Takame 16 Fresh sashimi selection 17 Sashimi selection of fish and crustaceans

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Dining

18 18 Beetroot presented in multiple ways 19 Crispy octopus 20 The 26-seat restaurant

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Twenty Six

by Liberty, Hong Kong Under the masterful direction of Michelin-Star Chef Bjoern Alexander, the Liberty Group has launched Twenty Six

by Liberty – the company’s 26-seat dining room on 26/F Stanley 11, 11 Stanley Street in Central. With a new personality, new chef, new look and a new attitude, the intimate dining concept is accepting reservations everynight for its 10-course dinners where diners enjoy a ringside seat at Chef Bjoern’s open kitchen.

While the spotlight shines brightly on Chef Bjoern in action as the main visual focal point, the attention is shared with his exquisitely presented modern innovative cuisine. Surrounded on three sides by his guests, with nothing but a countertop separating diners and the kitchen, he prepares, introduces and serves each course creating a fully interactive experience with diners. His outgoing and friendly personality provides an atmosphere

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and personal encounter that other restaurants don’t offer. He shares his techniques, ingredients, personal experiences, passion, creativity and viewpoints ensuring each guest receives attention.

Chef Bjoern’s strong Taoism philosophy is explored through his dishes and the restaurant interiors. Guests enter (and leave) the dining space through one of three elevators titled ‘Reality’, ‘Universe’ and ‘Life’ – the three pillars of Taoism.

The ‘Life of Tree’ tasting menu demonstrates creation, nature, purity, relationships, history and experience. The dishes flow through three stages, Young Sprouts, The Branches and The Roots, representing elements of the tree – the foundation of Chef Bjoern’s innovative food principles. www.twentysix.hk

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Dining

Influenced as much by the street food of Bangkok as by centuries-old cookbooks belonging to private Thai households

nahm, COMO Bangkok Since September 2010, Bangkok’s rich culinary tradition has been drawing acolytes with the opening of nahm in a beautifully designed, contemporary space at the COMO Metropolitan Bangkok. nahm was the first venture in the country by David Thompson — the Australian-born chef, author and TV personality whose talents secured him the first ever Michelin star for Thai cooking in Europe at nahm London.

Influenced as much by the street food of Bangkok as by centuries-old cookbooks belonging to private Thai households, his style combines big, bold flavours with meticulous attention to detail, fresh local produce and traditional cooking methods.

For lunch, nahm offers a lighter, shorter version of the dinner menu, and includes a selection of Thai salads, curries and stir-fries. Highlights include a king fish salad with pomelo, lemongrass and lime and aromatic curry of chicken with pickled cucumbers.

For dinner, the à la carte menu varies regularly, with highlights including coconut and turmeric curry of blue swimmer crab, and tamarind and chilli relish with grilled catfish and neem leaves.

There is a terrace for poolside outdoor dining and three private dining rooms for exclusive occasions, with the restaurant’s design by renowned Japanese interior architect, Koichiro Ikebuchi. The main space, which seats 112, has a warm, honeyed glow with inspiration drawn from the Ayutthaya period, with a gold-leaf featured wall, reclaimed Thai teak wood floor, and Thai silk in rich earthy tones for the upholstery.

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21 Sweet Thai wafers 22 Peanut relish with grilled prawns 23 Steamed marble fish 24 The terrace for outdoor dining 25 Earthy and elegant interior

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Bon AppĂŠtit

Decadent Delicacies

There is no doubt that Bushido is one of the most loved restaurants in the Kingdom of Bahrain, with service and quality that keeps guests returning time and time again. inspired by the mysticism of Japan, Bushido offers a feast for the senses, through its ambience and cuisine.

With over 26 years experience in some of the world’s top restaurants, Head Chef Goh says his greatest achievement is seeing customers enjoy his dishes.

To further spread that enjoyment, Chef Goh has shared his expertise with Durrah readers, with four favourite recipes from Bushido.

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Avocado Salad SALAD Ingredients • 50g Mixed Salad • 50g Avocado (cubed) • 5g Carrots (sliced) • 10g Cucumber (sliced) • 5g Red Radish (sliced) • 10g Cherry Tomatoes (quartered) • 3g White Sesame Seeds • 30ml Sesame Radish Dressing Dressing Ingredients • 600g Radish (small cubes) • 600g Onions (small cubes) • 30ml Sesame Oil • 600ml Vegetable Oil • 300ml Soy Sauce • 360ml Rice Vinegar • 150g Sugar • 40g White Sesame Seeds • 3g Black Pepper Method 1. Blend all ingredients very finely in the blender.

2. Check final seasoning afterwards.

3. Toss the above salad mix with the dressing and place in a bowl.

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Bon Appétit

Strawberry Avocado Roll Base ngredients • Sushi Rice Vinegar – for 12 litres • 8 litres Rice Vinegar • 6kg Sugar • 1.6kg Salt • Sushi Rice • 2.5kg Cooked Sushi Rice Roll Topping ngredients • 20g Avocado • 20g Strawberry • 5g Cream Cheese • 10ml Sweet Unagi Eel Sauce Roll Filling ngredients • 100g Sushi Rice • 1/2ea Nori Sheet • 40g Prawn (2 pieces) • 10g Cucumber • 10g Avocado Base Method 1. Mix Vinegar, Salt and Sugar in a pot and bring to a boil until salt and sugar are dissolved.

2. Boil the Sushi Rice for 35 minutes.

3. Set aside for around 10 minutes.

4. Mix 250ml of the vinegar mix with the 2.5 kg cooked rice.

Roll Method 1. Place the seaweed on the working board. Top with 100g marinated sushi rice.

2. Turn the sheet so the rice side is facing the board.

On the seaweed place Prawns, Cucumber and Avocado.

3. Roll into a proper Sushi roll, rice should be outside.

4. Press with a bamboo mat in the correct shape.

Assembly Method 1. Top the roll with Cream cheese and display the Strawberry and Avocado slices accurately.

2. Cover the roll with cling film and press yet again with the bamboo mat in the correct shape.

3. Slice the roll into 8 equal pieces. Display on a decorative plate and drizzle the roll with the sweet Unagi Eel sauce.

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Green Tea Tiramisu Tiramisu Ingredients • 11ea Egg Yolks • 550g Sugar • 750g Marscapone Cheese • 900g Whipped Cream • 50g Gelatine • 20g Matcha Green tea Powder • 15ml Water • 15ea Lady Finger Biscuits Tiramisu Method 1. Beat the egg yolks until whipped and almost white.

2. Mix water and sugar and boil until temperature reaches 116C. 3. Add liquid sugar to whipped egg yolks, set aside until it reaches room temperature.

4. Carefully add the Mascarpone Cheese, don’t over beat as it might break.

5. Whip cream and matcha powder until stiff.

6. Fold in the Matcha cream mix with the egg yolk mix, carefully.

7. Soak gelatin sheets in cold water and then dissolve in warm water.

8. Add dissolved gelatin sheets to the whole mixture above.

Coffee • • •

Syrup Ingredients 230g Sugar 245ml Water 16g Instant Coffee Powder

Display Method 1. Build layers in a bowl.

2. Soak Ladyfingers in coffee syrup.

3. Layer one layer of matcha mix, one layer lady fingers. Repeat.

4. Repeat this until bowl is filled up.

5. Chill in the fridge before serving. www.bushido.com.bh

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Automotive

Taking the automotive experience to new heights, Durrah takes a look at four of the world’s best carmakers, and their latest impressive offerings. Aston Martin, Bentley, Infiniti and Mercedes-Benz all showcase models that have a new dynamic exterior and revised, luxurious interior, with an enticingly high-quality design.

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Inspiring and Dynamic

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Automotive

Mulsanne Sinjari, Mulliner, Bentley Mulliner, Bentley’s legendary coach-building division, has taken bespoke craftsmanship to new heights and produced four extraordinary, limited edition Mulsanne Sinjari models especially for select customers in the Middle East. Mulliner is renowned for creating limited editions with themes that hold sentimental significance to discerning customers.

Paying tribute to the special place that falconry has held for the last 4,000 years at the heart of the region’s heritage, the Mulsanne Sinjari takes inspiration for its theme from the prized Sinjari falcon. This graceful bird of prey, found in many parts of the Arabian Penninsula and hailing from the great Sinjar mountains, shares with the Mulsanne the attributes of phenomenal performance, elegance and beauty, making it an ideal muse for the Mulliner craftsmen in Crewe.

The Mulsanne Sinjari features captivating exterior colours, having taken its cue from the hunting bird’s plumage, finished in Bentley two-tone Anthracite over Onyx. Meanwhile, the 21-inch Aluminium alloy wheels are also finished in gloss black in further homage to the Sinjar falcons.

The new one-piece bumper, radiator shell and bonnet integrate seamlessly with flush joins creating more visual width and presence. These features flow down to a lower vane-grille section, which is in turn flanked by ‘B’ signature matrix elements and finished in bright chrome.

Illuminated treatplates, which read “Sinjari”, welcomes the occupant to one of the finest cabins the world, with each element handpicked and crafted by the Mulliner coach building division at the Bentley Crewe factory. The cabin features Mulliner’s signature diamond quilted leather trim, finished in black and white with a contrasting white ceiling and “Sinjari” embroidered on the front headrests, adding to the Sinjari theme running throughout the car.

The uniqueness of the Mulsane Sinjari is further underscored by the handcrafted veneer featuring a distinctive, goldplated transfer overlay image of a Sinjari falcon. The Mulsanne Sinjari features the world’s finest veneers, handcrafted by Mulliner artisans from some of the best woods including walnut, oak, maple, and bodark.

These hand-selected veneers form pure and elegant surfaces throughout the cabin and each of the 40 pieces are shaped and finished with trademark attention to detail.

In another tribute to the extraordinary theme of the Sinjari falcon, the i-Pad tables in the rear of the cabin also feature a goldplated transfer overlay image of the Sinajri Falcon, while a chrome plated transfer overlay is added to the waistrails with the wording “Sinjari”.Elsewhere in the cabin, bright-polished stainless steel, chrome inlays, unique glass switchgear, traditional knurled controls and deep-pile carpets enhance this pinnacle of luxury comfort. www.bentleymotors.com

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04 05 01 Bentley Mulsanne Sinjari 02 Bentley Mulsanne Sinjari interior with Mulliner’s signature diamond quilted leather trim 03 Bentley Mulsanne Sinjari vertical-vane grille and gold plated Flying ‘B’ 04 Bentley Mulsanne Sinjari rear 05 Bentley Mulsanne Sinjari

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06 Powerful, efficient and dynamically gifted 07 The profile blends clean lines with a sloping decklid 08 An inspiring palette of colours means its interior can be in-tune with your unique personal style 09 DB11 re-imagines the relationship between form and function

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Aston Martin DB11 The DB11 showcases a fresh and distinctive design language, pioneering aerodynamics and is powered by a potent new in-house designed 5.2-litre twinturbocharged V12 engine. Built upon a new lighter, stronger, and more space efficient bonded aluminium structure, DB11 is the most powerful, most efficient and most dynamically gifted DB model in Aston Martin’s history. As such, it is the most significant new Aston Martin since the introduction of the DB9 in 2003.

Heralding a new design era for Aston Martin, DB11 is the latest landmark in a remarkable aesthetic journey; one that gave us icons such as the DB2/4, DB5 and, most recently, the DB10 developed specifically for James Bond. DB11 re-imagines the relationship between form and function with a series of fresh design signatures.

Foremost amongst these are the front-hinging clamshell bonnet, distinctive LED headlights and accentuated lines of the iconic Aston Martin grille. The profile is equally dramatic, thanks to the roof strakes that flow uninterrupted from A-pillar to C-pillar. The clean lines continue at the rear, with a sloping decklid that smoothly blends into boldly sculpted taillights to create a new and unmistakable graphic.

Innovative aerodynamics play their part in this aesthetic revolution with clever management of airflow both over and through the bodywork aiding stability while preserving the DB11’s uncluttered surfaces.

Like every Aston Martin, the heart of the DB11 is

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found beneath the bonnet, though unlike any Aston Martin before it, the DB11’s heart is a 5.2-litre twinturbocharged V12. Designed in-house this new engine develops 608PS1 (600BHP1) and 700Nm1 of torque, making DB11 the most powerful production DB model ever. Naturally, it’s the most dynamic and most accelerative too, with a top speed of 200mph1 and a 0-62mph time of just 3.9sec1.

To exploit the advantages of its new body structure and harness the immense performance of the new twin-turbo V12 engine, the DB11’s chassis, suspension, steering and electronics have been re-imagined and key new technologies embraced.

As a true 21st century Aston Martin the DB11 combines the very latest technology developed in conjunction with technical partner, Daimler, with the finest quality and hand craftsmanship.

Thanks to an inspiring palette of colours and a vast array of detailing options, its interior can be perfectly in-tune with your unique personal style. From calming, carefully co-ordinated tones to sharp contrasts in hue and texture, your choices are virtually limitless. Nexus quilting and Celestial perforation add layers of beautiful complexity and intrigue, while ornate leatherwork, such as intricate brogue detailing, creates areas of visual and tactile delight. db11.astonmartin.com

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Mercedes-Benz GLS Al Haddad Motors proudly presented the GLS road show in Seef Mall Muharraq, taking place from August 11 to August 13. The weekend road show gave customers the opportunity to test drive the S Class of SUVs, the luxurious Mercedes-Benz GLS. “This was an exciting opportunity for Al Haddad Motors and Mercedes Benz to engage with the audience in Bahrain by having them test drive the allnew Mercedes Benz GLS,” said the General Manager of Al Haddad Motors, Graeme Newport.

“Our last event at Seef Mall Muharraq, the A45 simulator racing competition, was a great success and we were thrilled to have the Mercedes Benz GLS road show there as well.” Registered guests had their emotions triggered while having a first hand experience of high-end performance like no other.

A luxurious interior and vibrant physique highlights the new character that Mercedes-Benz is bringing to their already impressive line of high-end SUVs that are on offer. Being one of the larger SUVs by Mercedes Benz, the GLS has two-rows of seats with a foldable

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third row, which can seat up to seven passengers. This offers plenty of room for all the friends and family, making the model incredibly versatile.

All GLS models are equipped with an allwheel drive system and a nine-speed automatic transmission, boasting of a total output of 455 HP. Launched in Bahrain on March 2016, the GLS promises a number of attractive features and benefits, including all-round safety such as crosswind assist, collision-prevention assist, and brake assist, and the exciting feature ‘Dynamic Select’, which will let the driver select different driving modes depending on relative terrains.

The road show, which will continue on tour across the entire region, gave local audiences an opportunity to register and test drive the exciting GLS on the spot and immerse themselves in the advancements of the GLS, whilst also experiencing the first-class MercedesBenz lifestyle with its all-new SUV. mercedesbenzme.com/bahrain/en

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10 A luxurious interior highlights the new character of Mercedes-Benz 11 The GLs has two-rows of seats with a foldable third row 12 All GLs models are equipped with an all- wheel drive system

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Infiniti Q30 The new Q30 takes Infiniti’s signature design cues and evolves them into new dynamic shapes. The doublearch grille with 3D mesh, for example, has grown from the Q50, with a more fluid movement into the headlamps. The dramatic curves and turbulent lines flow up the bonnet, over the fenders and across the bodyline into the strong shoulder of the car.

The signature C-pillar arcs forward in a dynamic crescent shape that emphasises motion, even when stationary. The contrast of the long, low-slung roof-line, conjuring an image of a rakish shooting brake in silhouette, and elevated stance add to the visual impact. This also adds to a sleek look that gives the impression of the car being in motion even when standing still. The balance of sculptural shapes moving past one another creates a harmonious design that can be appreciated at a glance.

The Q30 Sport driving performance is slightly differentiated, thanks to individual suspensions settings and distinctive ride and handling characteristics – offering premium compact buyers a choice that is specific to their personal needs and preferences.

The Q30 Premium includes LED front fog lamps, body-coloured and heated door mirrors, as well as chrome dual rectangular exhaust finishers. 18-inch alloy wheels add to the Premium grade’s striking appearance.

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On the technology front, the Q30 delivers in spades as the best equipped with the highest level of assistive technology in the segment. This includes’ Around View Monitor with Moving Object Detection, Intelligent Parking Assist, Forward Collision Warning with Forward Emergency Braking and Blind Sport Warning.

A first for Infiniti and this category, the Intelligent Parking Assist is designed to work in the three most common parking situations, tight parallel parking, 90 degree backing-in and heading –in parking.

Using 12 sensors in the front and rear, the system automatically steers the vehicle into place with the additional help or audio and visual warnings whilst the driver controls the brake and accelerator.

At launch, the Infiniti Q30 will be available with 1.6L or 2.0L Turbo variants in a 2WD configuration.

The 2.0L Turbo will also be offered with an optional AWD drivetrain. The 2.0L Turbo engine delivers 208hp and 350Nm torque. When equipped with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, the highest-performing engine in the range is capable of powering the Infiniti Q30 from 0-to-100kph in 7.3 seconds.

13 Infiniti’s signature design cues evolved into new dynamic shapes 14 Dramatic curves and turbulent lines flow up the bonnet and across the bodyline of the car 15 The Q30 delivers the highest level of assistive technology in the segment 16 Using 12 sensors in the front and rear, the car features Intelligent Parking Assist

www.infiniti-bahrain.com/en/future_vehicles/ concept/q30.html

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Must Have

My Wish List The latest and most exclusive luxury items for men

LM1 Silberstein, MB&F Watchmaker Alain Silberstein had one overriding aim in his vision of creating a ‘Performance Art’ edition of LM1: to welcome the “eternal time” of the universe into the movement, where it would be transformed into time on a more human scale. The colours and shapes of the concave hands highlight Silberstein’s meticulously practical approach to artistic design. The three primary colours found on the sub dials – red and blue hands, yellow index markers – are echoed in the three shapes – blue cone, red cube, and yellow sphere – of the three-dimensional power reserve indicator. LM1’s ingenious three-dimensional movement was specifically developed for MB&F from Maximilian Büsser’s sketches by Jean-François Mojon and his team at Chronode together with independent watchmaker Kari Voutilainen. www.mbandf.com/machines/performance-art/lm1-silberstein

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Antique Home Décor, Marina Home Interiors Adding a vintage object to the home is a simple way of imbuing a distinct sense of charm and elegance, whether incorporating the look into a style that is contemporary or classic. The best part about adding an element of vintage flair is that can be done with ease. It doesn’t need to be a massive furniture piece to make a statement: small home décor items are the best way to add a quaint and unique edge to the home, without compromising on modern style. The musthave selection from Marina Home Interiors are the perfect way to begin or continue a vintage home look, with a range of accessories on offer. Choose from a range of items including piece such as a vintage telephone, fan, wooden transistor radio, antique gramophone or antique tripod camera. marinahomeinteriors.com

Memory Treasure Chest, Method Studios As with a great many of Scottish design studio and luxury cabinetmakers’ Method Studio’s handcrafted products, the dramatic reveal and moment of wonder is key to this beautiful chest – which is designed to house treasured and precious memories for generations to come. Having un-buckled the hand-cut straps and solid brass saddlery buckles, the leather lined front face drops down to reveal a series of hand-bound custom made leather journals – each individually debossed with the clients family name. A stunningly featured solid oak drawer is lined with superfine goat suede, and a series of slim solid oak drawers and hidden compartments slide out on solid brass waxed runners, all custom made and detailed with hand-carving. methodfurniture.co.uk

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Must Have

Mccreedy Blue Candle Conor Matthew Mccreedy born in Johannesburg, South Africa is a well-known international contemporary artist whose highly acclaimed work is based on his own unique pigment, known as Mccreedyblue. For the first time in history, a candle has been modelled from a colour, with creation of the aromatic candle “The essence of Mccreedyblue”, which evokes the mighty oceans of the Southern tip of Africa and the calm breeze of the Mediterranean.

These luxury scented candles are made from refined mineral wax and perfume combined from the finest ingredients, to create a perfectly balanced scent with a burn time of 50 hours. Hand poured in England and developed with traditional methods, details are tied up with a satin ribbon inside the packaging like an ancient scroll. www.conormccreedy.com

Al Arab Imperial, Grieb & Benzinger Polaris Boutique German watchmaker Grieb & Benzinger has once again created a watch dedicated to the Middle East. Originally commissioned by an Arabian collector, the Polaris Al Arab Imperial impresses with its hand-crafted two-part gold and black dial, a true work of art perfectly showcasing the small manufactory’s expertise in hand-crafting highly exclusive timepieces, traditionally, and exceptionally, designed. The Polaris Al Arab Imperial’s eye catching and distinctive ‘8 style’ dial features in many Grieb & Benzinger models and is focused on its hour and minute display at 12 o’clock, in this case, graced with elegant Eastern Arabic numerals, and as always, balanced by the small second indication at 6 o’clock. www.grieb-benzinger.com/en/pharos-al-arab-imperial

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Men’s Sandals, Carolina Herrera CH Carolina Herrera has unveiled the brand’s first collection of sandals for men, designed exclusively for the Middle East. Featuring a sober and minimalist design, the sandals have thick comfortable straps that are embellished with the hallmark of Herrera House, thanks to a finely perforated logo. Designed to last, the shoes have been hand crafted by a team of expert makers and are made to last. The timeless collection is made from Spanish steerhide leather and comes available in three different colours, to suit any taste, including white, brown, and navy with a red accent along the strap. The new sandals are available in each shade from CH Carolina Herrera stores across the UAE. www.carolinaherrera.com/fashion/carolina-herrera/men

Athens’ custom Sportster Iron 883, Harley-Davidson Chosen from a total of 12 finalists by a panel of custom experts, Harley-Davidson Athens dealership was crowned ‘Custom King’ at this years Battle of the Kings competition, with its ‘Nyx’, the Ancient Goddess of the Night, inspired build. The team from Harley-Davidson Athens wanted to build a café racer that took inspiration from the goddess – a shadowy figure of power and beauty. Viewed from the rear, the bike resembles a snake and from the front a panther, both creatures of the night. The deep gloss black paint with hints of silver flake allude to a starry night sky.

Designed to inspire individual expression through easy customization, the Iron 883 is one of the most popular Harley-Davidson Sportster models. www.h-d.com/customkings

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Must Have

Oculus Rift A virtual experience like no other, the Oculus Rift uses state of the art displays and optics designed specifically for VR. Its high refresh rate and low-persistence display work together with its custom optics system to provide incredible visual fidelity and an immersive, wide field of view.

Whether you’re stepping into your favourite game, watching an immersive VR movie, jumping to a destination on the other side of the world, or just spending time with friends in VR, Rift will make you feel like you’re really there. Rift’s advanced display technology combined with its precise, lowlatency constellation tracking system enables the sensation of presence.

Rift is a next generation virtual reality experience that is customisable, comfortable, adaptable, and beautiful. www.oculus.com/en-us/rift/

Urban Spirit Helmets, Montblanc A tribute to the mobility and wanderlust of the distinguished gentleman rider, the Urban Spirit Helmets bring sophistication to motorcycling.

Montblanc have created two, masculine and contemporary companions for daily motorcycle adventures. Both helmets are inspired by the simplicity of the racing helmets from the 1970s with a modern edge. A design combining tactile Urban Spirit plain with the perforated leather of racing gloves, they are moulded on a shell with a refracting coating. A full-face helmet provides a protective black visor, while the other one is an open face helmet with a mirrored visor. Montblanc has applied the highest standards of craftsmanship to the assembly of this motorcycling accessory, expressed through the detailing, the finishes and the stitching of the leather. www.montblanc.com/Boutique‎

Phoenix Renaissance, S.T. Dupont The “Phoenix Renaissance” Limited Edition is inspired by the legendary journey of the firebird that returns to the temple of Heliopolis, after being reborn. This collection, on the theme of revival, superbly illustrates the endlessly renewed inspiration of the House craftsmen, who express themselves by combining ancient techniques in the creation of a unique red flamed natural lacquer adorned with smoky and fiery nuances. The gold-toned reflections of the natural lacquer are enhanced by gold-finished inserts, hand-sculpted individually in the effigy of the Phoenix and adorned with two precious citrine stones. The majestic hand-sculpted Phoenix statue is mounted on a flamed lacquered stand with gold finishes. The bird carries the 2016 majestic pieces created for this collection. www.st-dupont.com

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UNDER THE PATRONAGE OF

HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS PRINCE KHALIFA BIN SALMAN AL KHALIFA PRIME MINISTER OF THE KINGDOM OF BAHRAIN

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The 25th Middle East International Jewellery & Watch Exhibition

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1992

register online at www.jewelleryarabia.com

Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre

ESTD

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EDIT I

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22 - 26 November 2016

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Must Have

My Wish List The latest and most exclusive luxury items for women

Chandelier, Bilbao Bilbao’s commitment to artistic expression is intimately tied to the shift in the model of urban character and development.

Just as the Guggenheim Museum is able to attract the most extraordinary contemporary art shows, the Bilbao chandelier enhances the artistic vein for interior decoration. In the Bilbao Guggenheim, “the randomness of the curves are designed to catch the light”, whereas in Bilbao chandelier, the spiral of black and gold lacquered brass will project a warm light in various random directions, for a sublime mood lighting effect. High quality materials and impeccable one a kind design has come together to create this eye catching piece. www.creativemary.com.pt/products/chandeliers/bilbaochandelier

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Astro Time Automatic, Designer Shaik The universe ticks through the cycle of a day with clockwork regularity.

The Astrolabe of Moments in Time measures this with extreme accuracy, bringing the gift of promptness, timekeeping and reliability; qualities that are indispensable to success. However, much more than this, this exclusive and one of a kind instrument communicates with the wearer in a silent sign language, which changes as the three hands orbit in the circle of the watch face through the cycle of the day. The highest quality materials and movements have been fitted in place to ensure this timepiece is an heirloom to behold. www.shaik.net

Vasmara Line, Versace Home Inspired by urban escapism, this new line by Versace Home presents furniture and furnishings for living, dining and bedroom with leopard and zebra print decors, precious leathers and silk jacquards with gold. Innovative materials such as precious woods for the new cabinet bar, paired with neutral and vibrant colours such as khaki, purple, orange, haze and white.

The Vasmara sofa is made of soft ivory leather with zebra prints on the front of its arms, and the Medusa Versace comes in a silhouette shape set as a signature on all of the pieces. The ‘Bruce The Shark’ cushion is in a unique piece, silk printed with in gold, black, blue and pink. www.versacehome.it/products/en/catalogue/textile-accessories/ accessories/vasmara/default.aspx

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Must Have

Langley Tote, Langley Fox and TUMI Langley Fox, Ernest Hemingway’s great granddaughter is known for her unique illustrations, artwork and fashion design. Now she has partnered with TUMI, the leading brand of premium travel, business and lifestyle accessories for a one-off collaboration for the Spring/Summer 2016 collection. The exclusive Langley TUMI tote draws energy and inspiration from Fox’s own whimsical drawings and was intended for the next generation of TUMI users. Designed for the girl on the go who’s not overly polished, but ambitiously chic in her daily travels. The tote comes with a pen pouch, complete with a Sharpie to write name and travel information on the zip pouch, as well as a larger zip pouch. www.tumi.com

Memento Shoe Trunk, Jimmy Choo Jimmy Choo has unveiled a limited edition shoe trunk to celebrate its 20th anniversary and to coincide with the launch of Memento – a capsule collection of ultra-glamorous shoes that pays homage to the brand’s long-standing red carpet legacy. Designed by Creative Director, Sandra Choi, the handmade trunk has been meticulously crafted from pale galuchat embossed leather and incorporates 20 individual shoe drawers, each lined in suede and finished with a brass cardholder to accommodate a shoe sketch from the Memento collection. The shoe trunk will be sold in conjunction with the complete set of 20 red carpet styles included in the anniversary collection. row.jimmychoo.com/en/memento.html

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Pocket Plein Cuir, Hermès This horological object from Hermès harmoniously associates the science of time measurement with the art of travel and leather craftsmanship. Two saddle-making techniques are combined in the timepiece: through-seam stitching and so- “full-grain leather”. The latter consist of superimposing several layers of leather to create a six millimetre thickness smoothly encasing the watch. The artisan begins with the short leather ribbon from to hang the pocket watch, which is shaped to form a loop. They then add another sturdier layer of cowhide on either side, and each is then covered with a finely cut piece of smooth, dyed alligator giving the final appearance to its two faces.

The Pocket Plein Cuir is powered by the Manufacture Hermès H1912 movement crafted in Switzerland. www.hermes.com

Golden Globe Geo Pattern Lamp, Al Huzaifa Furniture Al Huzaifa Furniture, a high-end furniture and interior décor hub, presents its latest lighting collection created with awe-inspiring geometric patterns.

A minimalist vision makes Al Huzaifa’s lighting solutions larger than life, with bold and beautiful settings that weave a tale through light, reflection, shadows and perception. Inspired by the elements, quarantine gold, stunning platinum and sterling silver, Al Huzaifa Furniture’s newest collection is sure to add a touch of class and panache to any living space.

Making a minimalist statement, the Golden Globe Geo Pattern Lamp is sure to add a modern touch to any home with its geometric patterns. The open angular form and the bold edges add a defining style to the interior of one’s room. www.alhuzaifa.com

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Karakor Pens, Madagasc’art and Dreams Marquetry is a very old and traditional technique in which small layers of precious wood are fitted together to form a picture or an object.

Madagascar and the village of Ambositra is one of the most famous places for this traditional craft, which combines manual know-how and modern technology. This has allowed for the very unique and exclusive collection of wooden pens from Madagasc’art and Dreams.

After several years of research and development, a small team of designers, turners and carvers under Philippe Couture’s tutelage, have developed a superb collection of pens, made of precious wood under the brand name Karakor. madagascart-and-dreams.com/en/karakor

Emporio Armani For Autmn 2016, Emporio Armani presents a captivating jewellery collection of graphic statement pieces that display dynamic style and edgy femininity.

Evoking the herringbone patterns seen in many best-selling Emporio Armani watches, the jewellery collection employs the quintessential Emporio Armani black-and-silver colour palette to striking effect. Herringbone-etched black steel is paired with polished stainless steel and black leather for bold style.

The women’s collection echoes the ladies’ winter 2016 Emporio Armani watch collections, pairing oversized chains with accents of gunmetal, rose gold and crystal for a look that’s industrial, yet feminine. This collection presents a captivating jewellery assortment, classy and elegant. www.armani.com/za/emporioarmani/women/onlinestore/jewelry

Fyunka by aura Aura, the modern home fashion brand has announced Fyunka by aura: the first collaboration with unique Saudi design brand Fyunka. The collection is a limited edition of dinnerware, which came to fruition as part of aura’s continued effort to support and develop the growing local talent amongst the design community of Saudi Arabia. Born in Jeddah on the Saudi Arabian coast of the Red Sea, Fyunka’s illustrations are of women with diverse cultural backgrounds each with their own rich traditions, styles and customs, and bring them together into one beautiful story. The concept behind this limited edition Fyunka by aura collection was to create a series of ‘his and hers’ people-based illustrations for a dinnerware collection, that includes plates, cups, saucers and salt and pepper shakers, exclusively for aura. www.auraliving.com

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Book Review

Greatest of All Time: A Tribute to Muhammad Ali is a book with the power, courage, depth, creativity, and dazzling energy of its extraordinary subject. With thousands of images, including photography, art, and memorabilia and two gatefold sequences, this epic publication pays vivid tribute to The Greatest both in and outside of the ring. After the sad passing of Muhammad Ali on June 3 this year, Durrah celebrates the life of this Olympic professional boxer and activist with a look at this publication.

Greatest of All Time

G

reatest of All Time: A Tribute to Muhammad Ali has been described as the book that Ali deserves, a knockout publication that will take your breath away. Original essays and five decades’ worth of interviews and writing explore the courage, convictions, and extraordinary image building that made Ali one of the most recognisable and inspirational individuals on the planet. Ali was an icon not only as an extraordinary athlete, but also as an impassioned advocate of social justice, interfaith understanding, and peace.

After the hugely successful launch of GOAT at the Frankfurt Book Fair, TASCHEN celebrated the

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U.S. launch at the Miami Beach Convention Centre.

This was the historic site of Ali’s February 1964 triumph over Sonny Liston – the fight that earned him his first world heavyweight title. What has made the worldwide launch of GOAT so special, is the unique acclaim the book has met with in the media globally, and the presence of Muhammad Ali himself. If there was any doubt about the impact his physical presence still generates in the 21st century, one only has to look at the public and press clamour surrounding his appearances at the Frankfurt Book Fair and Art Basel Miami Beach in 2003. He remains untouchable as a global icon.

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Book Review

At Art Basel Miami Beach, Ali presided over two days of celebrations: the host, actor Will Smith, singer, actor and producer P Diddy, celebrated artist Jeff Koons, public speaker Atallah Shabazz (daughter of political leader Malcolm X) and threetime ring opponent Ken Norton, watched, spoke and listened as a crowd of Ali insiders recounted their extraordinary times with the three-time Champ.

Speakers and GOAT contributors, including historian Hank Kaplan, trainer Angelo Dundee, “ring doctor” Ferdie Pacheco, GOAT Principal Photographer Neil Leifer, writers Budd Schulberg, Gregory Allen Howard and Robert Lypsite, Ali’s wife Lonnie, manager Bernie Yuman and his closest friend Howard L. Bingham talked about what Ali means to them and to the world. And as if that wasn’t

enough, the star-studded gala event was rounded off by a stunning performance from the legendary soul singer Etta James, backed by the Roots Band, who played a set of timeless classics.

Now GOAT has been released as an exclusive Collector’s Edition, limited to 9,000 copies, and signed

by Muhammad Ali and Jeff Koons. This special edition features a cover with Ali’s torso and pink lettering, the photolitho Radial Champs by Jeff Koons measuring 50 x 40 cm, over 3,000 images – photographs, art, and memorabilia, much of it published for the first time – from over 150 photographers and artists, original essays and the best interviews and writing on the Champ over five decades, totalling 600,000 words, and a silk-covered box illustrated with Neil Leifer’s iconic 1966 photo Ali vs Williams.

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Ali was an icon not only as an extraordinary athlete, but also as an impassioned advocate of social justice, interfaith understanding, and peace 02

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01 Distant view of St. Dominic’s Arena, 1965 ©: Neil Leifer, GOAT / TASCHEN 02 The silk-covered box of GOAT 03 GOAT Collector’s edition in its silk covered box 04 Cover of GOAT / Champ’s Edition 05 A dramatic overhead shot, regarded as one of the greatest sporting images of all time, featuring Cleveland Williams and a victorious Ali, 1966 © Neil Leifer, GOAT / TASCHEN

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With the highest quality binding in pink leather, this was the colour of Ali’s first Cadillac. Optimum photographic reproduction creates unparalleled intensity and range in the colours, and exquisite tone and density within the duotone images.

American boxing historian and writer Hank Kaplan says, “Never before in human history have the impressions and visual evidence been recorded to such extent, then compiled to exhibit in book form the evolution of an authentic icon. As the pages turn in the book it is immediately revealed that the artisan’s pride and skill worked with full force in shaping the life of Muhammad Ali. It would be at home in the museum of art. GOAT will prove that a book can be truly immortal.” www.taschen.com/pages/en/catalogue/ photography/all/05737/facts.greatest_of_all_ time_a_tribute_to_muhammad_ali.htm

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Final Pearl

Final Pearl

The Art Code

Sea Festival 2016

T B he Art Code “TAC” Show is a phenomenal one-stop artistic platform. It is 2 in 1 event that will host not only national, but international Fashion Shows, alongside a special concert for two iconic youth stars.

The Fashion Shows will be showcased by creative and fashion oriented talents, and will provide cultural and artistic activities for its guests.

The event will be an enchanting, promising and glamorous occasion, which will focus on luxurious lifestyles, and bringing together various artistic and health businesses.

The TAC Show is set to be an encyclopaedic event, which will feature a wide range of categories including: Fashion Designers and Brands, Beauty Salons, Wedding Gowns Designers / Brands, Hair & Make-up Artists and Salons, Jewellery and Accessories, Leather Goods and more. In essence, this is an event that promotes creativity and arts.

It aims at being the start of a new way of thinking, promoting creative, fashion and art from the heart of the Middle East.

Tickets are now available online

ahrain Tourism & Exhibition Authority is organising the Bahrain Sea Festival 2016, which aims to celebrate Bahrain’s links to the sea, tying it with the heritage and traditions of dhow making, pearling and fishing and the contribution of these activities to the growth of Bahrain in the early years.

This event will be held from October 13 – 22, 2016 in Bahrain Bay with daily timings of 17:00 – 23:00.

The Sea Festival will be an activity-filled arena for both locals and visitors to come and enjoy the traditions and history of Bahrain. Interactive displays and craft demonstrations will be on show, with stories of pearling and fishing being told through multimedia and virtual reality experiences, along with colourful displays of dhows and boats on parade on the bay in the evenings.

The promenade beside the venue will be alive with pop up cafes and music throughout the 10day event. www.beca.bh

www.theartcode.com

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