Durrah Issue 48- R by Durrah Luxury Magazine

VOLUME 12 ISSUE 04 SUMMER 2020

BD 3.5 SR 35 DHS 35 KD 2.5 US$ 10

Al Merriyah The new Al Zain design. Arabian heritage inspired elements in 18 karat gold with diamonds.

www.alzainjewellery.com

DAVID BECKHAM BLACK BAY CHRONO S&G

7XGRU %RXWLTXH $O .KDOLID $YHQXH 0DQDPD .LQJGRP RI %DKUDLQ

WELCOME

010

First Impression

A word from the editor-in-chief

June 2020

Editorial Editor in Chief Khalid Ahmed Juman Deputy Editor in Chief Ahmed Khunji Art Director Nils Albrechtsen Features Editor Tariq Khonji Editors Amy Vaya Mohammed Hassan Charlie Holding Marketing and Sales International Media Sales Director Hussain Al Zaimoor Production Production Support Venkatesan J. S IT support Digital Manager Hussain Al Anjawi

DURRAH LUXURY MAGAZINE PO Box 13990, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain T. +973 77077777 F. +973 17226555 VOLUME 12 ISSUE 04 SUMMER 2020

BD 3.5 SR 35 DHS 35 KD 2.5 US$ 10

Welcome to another luxurious issue of Durrah! The world has changed beyond recognition over the past few months, and some of these changes may very well be here to stay. What does this mean for the luxury industry? As a purveyor of the world’s most desirable items and remarkable locations across the globe, we noticed that over the past few years, consumers were choosing intangible experiences over physical items. They preferred to spend their money on making memories, by going on expensive holidays, treating themselves to a sublime spa experience, or indulging in a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The global shutdown means that for the foreseeable future such experiences will not be possible. But people will always desire to surround themselves with beauty and luxury, and if they cannot go to it, they will bring it to themselves. We can expect to see increased demand for luxury items over the next few months, and with that in mind we have rounded up some of the most fabulously crafted fashions, fragrances, and leather goods from around the world. In this issue, we talk to HE the Minister of Transportation and Telecommunication, Eng. Kamal bin Ahmed, who reveals the details of the new airport’s passenger terminal and how it will transform the aviation industry in the Kingdom. We also talk to Diyar Al Muharraq CEO, Eng. Ahmed Alammadi to find out what it takes to manage one of the largest

real estate projects in Bahrain’s history. And from senior figures in charge of renowned brands, such as Gulfstream and Audemars Piguet, to gifted artists making their important messages heard, our latest issue is packed with insights into the most important figures shaping our world today. Our book review this month features a stunning photo book that takes you on a journey through AlUla, a spectacular landscape nestled deep within the ancient sands of northwest Saudi Arabia. Many civilizations have thrived here for thousands of years, from prehistoric times to the present day, and Robert Polidori’s incredible photographs allow you to visit this unique site from the comfort of your home. And as always, we bring you the most breathtaking travel sights, the finest dining destinations, the latest in designer brand apparel, and the numerous articles that cater to the palate of the most discerning connoisseurs. We hope these will help you look forward to brighter days to come. Where there’s luxury, there’s Durrah.

COVER IMAGE Powerful and dynamic 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.

Enjoy your read! ISSN 2210-1322

DURRAHMAGAZINE

Khalid Ahmed Juman Editor in Chief

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

ALL OTHERS

The BesT Never resT The Gulfstream G650ERTM owns the record for the fastest longest-range business jet flight in history—flying from Singapore to Tucson, Arizona, 44 minutes quicker than all others. With an industry-leading 100-plus world speed records for the Gulfstream G650TM and G650ER, you simply can’t go farther faster.

CONTENTS

012

CONTENTS

June 2020

Volume 12 Issue 04 Summer 2020

056

020

068

016

010

038

060

Editor’s Letter

Interview Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana

Interview with IWC Schaffhausen’s Creative Director, Christian Knoop

First Impression

016

Made in Italy

Timeless Creativity

064

Interview with the Minister of Transportation & Telecommunications,HE Eng. Kamal bin Ahmed Mohammed

044

Interview with Diyar Al Muharraq CEO, Eng. Ahmed Alammadi

Interview with Audemars Piguet Head of Complications, Michael Friedman

020

048

068

Graduation of Bahrain Bayan School (BBS) Class of 2020

Interview with Nissan Bahrain General Manager, Anas Abdulla

Tudor celebrates 50 years since the launch of its first chronograph

Marking a Milestone

Making Memories

024

Supporting the Economy

Tamkeen’s Business Continuity Support Program

034

As Big as Life

Interview with Faisal Kanoo

Mega-City of the Future

Tradition of Quality

052

Elevating the Aviation Experience

Interview with Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation President, Mark Burns

056

Nature’s Jewels

Chopard’s 2020 Red Carpet Collection

Remastering the Past

Making a Milestone

072

Unexpected Encounters

Cartier’s watchmaking novelties are reunited by a global theme in 2020

074

A Rare Talent

Yiqinq Yin joins Vacheron Constantin’s ‘One of Not Many’ campaign

106

080

096 126

076

092

106

Geneva, a hub for watch lovers

Perfumes for women

The latest in ladies’ brand name bags

Horology Capitale

Alluring Fragrances

Exquisite Style

080

094

110

Interview with Syrian-American artist and architect, Mohamad Hafez

International artist Roman Feral

Modern Art Studio, Bahrain’s official Tudor watch retailer

Small Art, Big Message

086

Scent of Success

Interview with Amouage Chief Experience Officer, Renaud Salmon

088

Fresh and Bold Perfumes for men

090

Sophisticated Scents Unisex perfumes

Nature and Fashion Collide

096

Handcrafting Excellence Interview with Nida Azwer

Watchmaking Savoir-faire

114

Boutique Experience

100

Luxurious shopping destinations

Berluti’s Spring Summer 2020 Collection

An Unforgettable Journey

Artisanal Heritage

102

Driven to Impress

Dunhill’s Spring Summer 2020 Collection

122

Aqua Blu, a brand-new cruise experience in the East Indonesian Archipelago

126

Exquisite Craftsmanship

Hylas Yachts’ new H60 performance cruiser

CONTENTS

014

June 2020

162

210

130 168

130

156

194

Interview with Bahraini artist, Mustafa Al Halwachi

Mandarin Oriental Jumeira, Tasca’s Chef Jose Avillez

Fornasetti Theatrum Mundi exhibition

Artistic Triumphs

Culinary Genius

134

162

Discover Seychelles

Top dining locations

Tropical Paradise

Refined Taste

138

168

Velaa Private Island Maldives

The Rolls-Royce Wraith

Beyond Luxury

142

Redefining Hospitality The best hotels in the world

Experiencing Greatness

178

Best of Both Worlds

INFINITI Q60 Coupe and QX80 Limited

150

184

The best spas in the world

Car reviews

Serene Treatments

Driving In Style

Creative Flair

198

Must Haves for Men Luxury items for Men

204

Must Haves for Women Luxury items for women

210

Alula

A remarkable oasis

LIVE REAL LUXURY Luxury is better shared with the QX80: bold exterior lines, a sophisticated and luxurious interior for ultimate comfort, the security of advanced safety technologies and the endless power of 400HP 5.6-litre V8 engine*. InfinitiMiddleEast

InfinitiME

InfinitiMiddleEast

*Also available in QX80 Limited 428 HP.

UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL

016

June 2020

Marking a Milestone Despite the extraordinary circumstances currently facing the world, work on the Airport Modernization Project (AMP) continued to progress, setting new records and ushering in a new era for the Kingdom’s aviation sector. The Minister of Transportation & Telecommunications, HE Eng. Kamal bin Ahmed Mohammed sheds light on the completion of the historic project and its role in boosting the Kingdom’s economy. THE AMP IS REGARDED AS ONE OF THE MOST IMPORTANT NATIONAL PROJECTS IN THE KINGDOM’S HISTORY. WHAT MAKES IT SO UNIQUE AND HOW DOES IT DIFFER FROM THE PREVIOUS AIRPORT EXPANSION IN 1994? The existing airport terminal was built in the 1970s and expanded in 1994 to meet a capacity of around 4 million passengers annually. However, the country’s continued economic growth has seen the terminal stretched to more than double its designed capacity. It processes 9 million passengers per year with the same constrained infrastructure resources, which is a challenging situation for BAC and its partners. The new Passenger Terminal Building is four times larger than the current facility and will be capable of processing 130,000 air traffic movements per annum with a handling capacity of 4,700 bags per hour. It will increase the airport’s capacity to 14 million passengers a year and is built to the highest technological standards, ensuring a safe, secure, and seamless airport experience. Our goals for the new facility are to ensure it reflects the Kingdom’s character. Featuring a

broad selection of local products, food and beverage outlets, Bahraini jewelry, and art gallery, the airport will treat all customers, even transit passengers, to a taste of Bahraini hospitality at the Souq Al Qaisarya. In partnership with the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities, the new terminal will showcase a wide range of Bahraini art and cultural items to highlight the Kingdom’s history and heritage.

IN WHAT WAYS WILL THE COMPLETION OF THE AMP BE A CATALYST FOR WIDER SOCIO-ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT IN BAHRAIN? Airports are infrastructure platforms designed as enablers of much wider and diversified economic activities. As Ministry of Transportation and Telecommunications builds and invests in the airport’s infrastructure, it looks forward to establishing partnerships with the private sector to take advantage of these developments. Through this transformation, MTT aims to develop an airport ecosystem that fosters the creation of new job opportunities for us and our partners. The AMP will also bring about

new concession opportunities for retail, food and beverages, and advertising. Although the terminal is the most significant element, the AMP is a much wider regeneration initiative of the whole airport platform, as several other infrastructure elements are also being redeveloped. Highlights include jet fuel farm complex, fire station, and Cargo Express building, as well as a private aviation terminal to cater to VIPs and business leaders.

BESIDES COVID-19, WHAT WERE SOME OF THE BIGGEST CHALLENGES TO COMPLETING THE OPERATIONAL READINESS AND AIRPORT TRANSFER (ORAT) PROCESS? Implementing the new Passenger Terminal Building’s advanced technology requires expertise not presently available in the local market. As such, we have enlisted the assistance of specialists to train our Bahraini team members and equip them with the advanced skillsets required to work in specialized disciplines. Ongoing preparations to train BIA stakeholders on how to effectively operate the new terminal are progressing on schedule, with familiarization and contractor training

UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL

018

June 2020

programs taking place concurrently. We have achieved significant progress and, when the new facility opens, I am confident that passengers will enjoy a transformed travel experience.

HOW WILL THE LAUNCH OF THE NEW 03 TERMINAL HELP TRANSFORM LOGISTICS AND AIR CARGO INTO ONE OF BAHRAIN’S PRIMARY INDUSTRIES?

and Bahrain Airport Services, we have been able to achieve the Airport Modernization Program’s objectives without impacting existing operations.

OFFERING AN IMPROVED TRAVEL EXPERIENCE IS ONE OF THE MAIN GOALS FOR THE NEW TERMINAL. HOW WILL THIS BE ACHIEVED?

WHAT WERE SOME OF THE CHALLENGES FACED WHILE BUILDING THE NEW TERMINAL NEXT TO A FULLY OPERATIONAL AIRPORT?

The new Passenger Terminal Building will be equipped with state-of-the-art technology to enhance efficiency, improve security, and meet passengers’ growing 03 expectations for a more seamless airport experience. Advancements in automation will streamline some of the most time-consuming processes and procedures, reducing waiting times for passengers and giving them more control over their journeys. Hala Bahrain, a subsidiary of BAC, will also offer a wide range of premium hospitality services, packages, and facilities to enhance the travel experience. Moreover, the new airport’s retail areas will be three times bigger, turning the airport into a key commercial hub. We are also adding new facilities, including the Bahrain Airport Hotel, which will offer transit passengers a variety of accommodation types and facilities.

The most challenging issue was maintaining the same high levels of safety and security. Fortunately, with the cooperation of BAC’s operations teams (Terminal and Airside) and great support from Civil Aviation Affairs, Ministry of Interior department’s operating out of BIA,

THE NEW TERMINAL IS TARGETING LEADERSHIP IN ENERGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL DESIGN (LEED) CERTIFICATION, A GLOBALLY

Bahrain International Airport (BIA) is developing a new Cargo Express Area comprised of warehouses, aircraft parking, and associated infrastructure aimed at improving the airport’s cargo operations. This will enable BIA to handle larger volumes, better cater to express cargo customers’ needs, and create new job opportunities. In 2019, FedEx Express signed up as the anchor tenant, which demonstrates the Kingdom’s strong international reputation as a regional hub for businesses in the Middle East. Last year,

01 The Minister of Transportation & Telecommunications, HE Eng. Kamal bin Ahmed Mohammed 02, 03, 04 HRH the Crown Prince and HE the Minister visit the airport

“We have achieved significant progress

and, when the new facility opens, I am confident that passengers will enjoy a transformed travel experience.”

RECOGNIZED SYMBOL OF SUSTAINABILITY ACHIEVEMENT. WHY IS THIS CERTIFICATION SO BENEFICIAL AND WHAT STEPS HAVE BEEN TAKEN TO IMPROVE ENERGY EFFICIENCY AT THE NEW TERMINAL? MTT is targeting LEED certifications for key AMP projects and is on track to achieve Gold certification for the new Passenger Terminal Building and West Car Park, and Silver for the Central Utility Complex. The AMP’s sustainability goals are in line with the National Energy Efficiency Action Plan’s objective to reduce Bahrain’s energy consumption by 6 per cent by 2025. To ensure the AMP’s infrastructure and installed systems comply with LEED standards for energy and water efficiency, we have appointed Sustainability Consultancy M/s AESG at the very start of the national project. Last year, BIA took another significant step towards becoming a carbonneutral facility, achieving Level 2 ‘Reduction’ of the Airport Council International (ACI) Airport Carbon Accreditation program. The program is the only institutionally endorsed carbon management certification standard for airports and recognizes facilities that successfully manage and reduce their carbon footprint.

HOW BIG A ROLE DOES BAHRAINIZATION PLAY IN TERMS OF SOURCING EMPLOYEES FOR THE NEW TERMINAL? we are committed to building the skills of Bahraini citizens and helping them to reach their full potential. Currently, an impressive 80 percent of the company’s employees are drawn from the local population and the goal is to increase that to 90 percent by 2021. Since 2010, we have invested heavily in developing its human talent, and, at the center of this success is the Tahleeq program, a milestone training and development initiative. The four-year scheme equips participants with advanced skillsets required as part of the AMP through both theoretical, practical training, and mentoring from international specialists. In collaboration with international experts like Germany’s Fraport AG Frankfurt Airport Services Worldwide, BAC employees are also receiving comprehensive training to familiarize them with the passenger terminal’s new systems ahead of its opening. bahrainairport.com

EVENT

020

June 2020

MAKING MEMORIES Known for its pioneering spirit, Bahrain Bayan School (BBS) marked the graduation of the Class of 2020 with a historic ceremony that not only gave the graduates a heartfelt farewell, but also incorporated the social distancing practices promoted by the Kingdom. With over 26,000 views of the ceremony online and counting, this is one occasion that will be remembered for years to come.

When the COVID-19 pandemic forced all schools in the Kingdom to go online, Bahrain Bayan School decided this would not stop the outgoing class from having a graduation ceremony to remember. Designed with full health and safety precautions in place, the unique ceremony was a truly fitting celebration for the times. BBS Chairperson of the Board of Directors, Dr. Shaikha May Al Otaibi understood that a graduation ceremony would uplift students’ spirits. In consultation with the school’s Board, the Ministry of Health, Ministry of Education, and the Office of the First Deputy Prime Minister, an appropriately socially distanced ceremony was held at the Bahrain International Circuit. The ceremony was limited to the 82 graduating students and their families. Each family remained in their own cars for the duration of the event,

parked in designated spots marked by stickers to maintain a safe distance from each other. The students walked onto the stage one by one to collect their diplomas, which had been placed on a table. The perfectly orchestrated event was coordinated with precision over a dedicated radio frequency set up especially for the night, which all cars tuned in to. The ceremony was live streamed online for friends and family to attend the ceremony virtually from around the world. Al Otaibi and two of the school’s Board Members delivered speeches, while the class valedictorians presented short video messages, which were broadcast onto giant screens for attendees. A spectacular fireworks display lit up the sky to wrap up the ceremony, and pigeons were released into the sky for good luck. Afterwards, students

could visit one of the four special drive through lanes set up for photographs. The unique ceremony earned praise in the local media. BBS has also been a pioneer in the e-learning space, integrating augmented learning and virtual classroom tools with its in-person teaching methods since 2014. As a result, it was able to seamlessly transition to fully online teaching at the start of the pandemic. Learning has continued uninterrupted during this time, with a focus on core subjects. Last year, the school inaugurated a new state-of-the-art preschool facility which features a stunning circular campus built around a central garden space, giving students the impression of being outdoors even when they are in their classrooms. bayanschool.edu.bh

“Bahrain Bayan School decided

this would not stop the outgoing class from having a graduation ceremony to remember.”

02 01

01 BBS Chairperson of the Board of Directors, Dr. Shaikha May Al Otaibi 02 Social distancing was maintained throughout the ceremony

EVENT

022

03 Video was projected on a large screen for the graduates and families in attendance 04 Class of 2020 graduates

04 03

June 2020

06 07

05, 06 Graduates and their families celebrating safely from within their cars 07 Fireworks displays wrapped up the ceremony

TAMKEEN SPECIAL FEATURE

01 The Bahrain Award for Entrepreneurship 2020 02 Tamkeen CE, Dr. Ebrahim Janahi

024

June 2020

Supporting the Economy

In response to HM the King’s directives, Tamkeen has redirected its programs and a budget of BHD 40 million has been allocated towards the Business Continuity Support Program, which will support small and micro enterprises by providing financial grants that will cover part of their operating expenses during the global pandemic. The support program aims to achieve a number of objectives, which further include reducing the negative impacts on employment by supporting operational costs, expanding the circle of beneficiaries to include taxicab and public transport driver; driving instructors; and kindergarten workers, in addition to supporting the largest possible number of those impacted by the global pandemic.

Following the Royal Directives of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa to unite national efforts aimed at combating the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19), Tamkeen has launched the Business Continuity Support Program designed to offer financial support to adversely affected small and micro enterprises. The program is part of the economic stimulus package introduced by the Government of Bahrain to maintain economic operations and minimize the COVID-19 impact on the economy.

The financial support directed to each business entity ranges from BHD 1,050 to BHD 12,000, depending on the size of the organization based on the number of employees, and it covers part of their operating expenses to ensure that other enterprises also benefit from the program. Support dues are paid for three consecutive months, with each entity completing the requirements for each monthly payment by logging all required information via Tamkeen’s portal and attaching receipts of their expenses on a monthly basis. More than 26,000 requests were submitted during the first phase of the program, all of which have been assessed, with 13,000 enterprises already receiving their payments.

Tamkeen has been expediting the payment process, particularly for businesses in sectors that are most affected, such as the services sector. Going forward, Tamkeen plans to encourage businesses on researching and studying possible alternative solutions and fields that ensure their continuity, such as activating digital and technological tools. Studies and market research will also be conducted in order to develop plans for reintroducing Tamkeen programs in a format that is suitable to the needs of the next stage, and to maintain sustainable growth of the private sector. tamkeen.bh

TAMKEEN SPECIAL FEATURE

026

Radiant Creations A professional jewellery designer since 2007, Amal Al Majed is the creative mind behind one of Bahrain’s most popular jewellery brands. Possessing a degree from the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), she crafts her exquisite creations which she offers through her shop in Seef Mall and on her website, where customers can place their orders online and have them delivered to their doorsteps. CAN YOU TELL US A BIT ABOUT YOUR COLLECTIONS? WHAT CAN CUSTOMERS EXPECT IN TERMS OF MATERIAL? We carry collections in 18k and 21k gold. Our products incorporate different types of gemstones and pearls. We carry 4 signature collections; ‘Toleen’, which incorporates 18k gold with mother of pearl and gemstone that evoke femininity; ‘Ward’, which features a beautiful design depicting mother of pearl carved into flowers; ‘Tabla’, our modern take on traditional designs in 21k gold; and our National collection, which consists of jewellery in the shape of Bahrain’s map. We are constantly updating our collections, adding new items each year. We have plans to launch a new collection this year as well. As of yet, it doesn’t have a name but it will consist of Bahraini pearls and diamonds. My favorite material to work with is pearls, especially mother of pearl. I feel closer to it because of its connection with Bahrain.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR STYLE OF DESIGN? IS THERE A SPECIFIC TYPE OF CUSTOMER YOU TARGET?

We have been crafting jewellery for our customers for years. Over time, we have maintained the level of quality they have come to expect from us. Amal Al Majed jewellery will always be delicate and feminine, appealing to the refined sense of modern women. Our collections are also manufactured almost entirely in Bahrain, minus a few components. As for customers, we have them in all kinds and all ages. Our shop is in the mall, so we benefit from walk-in visitors with diverse backgrounds. Our website offers worldwide shipping, so we cater to customers from outside the Kingdom and throughout GCC.

WHAT HAS BEEN THE BEST SELLER FROM YOUR COLLECTIONS SO FAR? Because it’s the time when our National Day is celebrated, we usually have many customers buying from the National collection between November and December. Another notable season is Ramadan and Eid, when we notice higher sales from our Tabla collection. For the rest of the year, the most popular purchases are from the Toleen and Ward collections, because each one has a timeless style. Our overall bestselling item so far are Toleen chokers.

June 2020

01 Amal Al Majed 02 Exclusive bridal collection featuring 18k white gold and diamonds 03 Toleen, Amal Al Majed’s signature collection 03

04 Jewellery shaped like Bahrain’s map, from the National collection

WHAT KIND OF CHALLENGES DOES A JEWELLERY DESIGNER FACE THESE DAYS? 02

The hardest part is reaching the right kind of people. Marketing can often be a major challenge for jewellery designers, and it needs to be done the right way before you can expect to see results.

IN WHAT WAY HAS TAMKEEN SUPPORTED YOUR BUSINESS? Tamkeen’s help has been invaluable. When I was setting up the business, they helped me create the right type of branding, which I needed to reflect the qualities and values I wanted in the brand. Their support for me is still ongoing as they also help me with my marketing strategy, including social media, ads, photography and other resources I needed to make my website.

YOU ALSO OFFER JEWELLERY DESIGN CLASSES. WHAT CAN TRAINEES EXPECT WHEN ENROLLING IN YOUR COURSES? I have been teaching jewellery design for many years. Currently, I’m working on establishing some online jewellery design courses to help them start their own business, offering basic knowledge about what it takes to succeed in this industry. For customer, they can learn how to buy jewellery, understand the difference between 18k and 21k gold, as well as precious and semi-precious gemstones. 04

amalalmajed.com

TAMKEEN SPECIAL FEATURE

028

01 Modern partition 02, 03 Exquisitely crafted bedroom sets 04 Mr. Khalil Fakhar

June 2020

Designing Luxury Bahraini entrepreneur and Managing Director of iCabinets, Khalil Fakhar discusses his company’s creative furniture designs and the importance of selecting the right interior for your home. 04

WHAT IS THE FULL RANGE OF PRODUCTS AND SERVICES OFFERED BY ICABINETS?I We offer a wide variety of products and services related to Interior design and wood work. Our work includes furniture for Kitchens, closets, bedrooms and more. Although We specialise in woodwork but also work with other complementary materials such as marble, steel, and aluminum.

WHAT WAS THE MOST CHALLENGING PROJECT ICABINETS HAS WORKED ON TO DATE AND WHY? We are currently designing and manufacturing a control centre for Alba, covering everything from A to Z. This is the most challenging project to date because of the precautionary measures in place to combat the spread of COVID-19. Extra care is being taken to ensure the health and wellbeing of our clients and our staff. In addition to that the biggest challenge we are currently facing is the expansion of our customer base all over the Gulf which requires further expansion in our manufacturing capacity. We have been operating since 2014 and started as a regular carpentry company, operating a small factory with two machines. We have since opened three other factories, specialising in wood, upholstery, and aluminium work. As matter of fact iCabinets today is considered one of the market leaders in the furniture industry in terms

of Individual and corporate projects due to its European quality standards and its competitive prices. This have allowed us to gain the trust of our customers and build strong business relationships with reputable companies like Alba, Bin Faqeeh, Dadabai as well as many Hotels all around Bahrain.

HOW HAS TAMKEEN HELPED YOUR BUSINESS? Tamkeen has provided incredible support, especially during our start up phase. We really appreciate their help, which includes sourcing machinery, computers, and talented Bahraini employees. We are incredibly pleased to have such a large number of Bahrainis working with us and are proud to support the Kingdom’s national workforce.

WHAT TYPE OF PRODUCTS ARE MOST POPULAR AT THE MOMENT AND WHY? We have a wide variety of Products , each with their unique requirements. When we started the business, our goal was to help customers fulfil all their needs in one place, providing cost-effective solutions from cabinets to closets. Most of our customers choose to furnish their entire homes with our products, so no one item stands out.

WHAT DIFFERENTIATES ICABINETS FROM COMPETITORS?

We are always ready to take on a new challenge and never say no to our customers. Although we have a target audience for our products, we cater to everyone’s needs. We have a variety of products available at different price points ranging from high-end to more economical options. Regardless of the price, we offer the same high work standards and quality throughout our range.

WHAT SORT OF MATERIALS DO YOU USE? We only use high quality material, imported from Europe, and processed here in our factories in Bahrain. Our wood is also eco-friendly, and our E1 particleboards release less than 9.0mg/100g of formaldehyde during the manufacturing process. We are so confident in the quality of our products that we give a 10-year guarantee.

HOW ARE YOU SUPPORTING THE KINGDOM’S HOUSING MARKET? We are working with the Ministry of Housing to provide products for various social housing schemes with affordable prices all around the Kingdom. Our carefully designed products help to maximise the space available and ensure that Bahrainis have beautiful homes that meet their requirements. icabinets.me

TAMKEEN SPECIAL FEATURE

030

01 03

01, 03 Wedding Delights in Alaali Mall 02, 04 Some of the delectable offerings at Wedding Delights

June 2020

Sweet Success Founded by Maha and Dalal Al Dosari in 2010, Wedding Delights grew from a small shop in Riffa to a household chocolatier with a loyal customer base from all over the Kingdom. Now operating from their shop at Aali Mall, the Bahraini brand continues to grow from strength to strength. Dalal Al Dosari reveals what makes Wedding Delights such a popular name in the premium chocolate business and the role Tamkeen played in building that reputation. 04

WHAT ARE THE CHOCOLATE BRANDS THAT YOU CARRY IN YOUR SHOP? Wedding Delights is a multi-brand venture. We produce our own chocolate, but we also carry a number of international brands making the finest quality chocolate. We have Tartuflanghe, an Italian brand famous for their truffles; Petit Grandeur, a Belgian chocolatier based in France; Street Tea Tile; a Spanish chocolatier that uses natural ingredients; and a range of fine Éclair chocolates from Belgium.

WHAT WOULD YOU SAY IS THE MOST RECOGNIZED OR APPRECIATED ASPECT OF WEDDING DELIGHTS? Our customers have always complemented us on our packaging and presentation. We create our own unique designs for the boxes and bags that contain the chocolate products, and people have fallen in love with them. They make for perfect gifts that are suitable for any occasion, whether

it’s a graduation party, birthday or anniversary. Our catering business is also very popular. We cater for a lot of events, including corporate ones. The customers enjoy the level of customization we offer. We can accommodate multiple budgets.

WHAT DO YOU BELIEVE IS THE KEY TO BEING A SUCCESSFUL ENTREPRENEUR? It’s crucial that you know how to differentiate yourself from the competition. You shouldn’t be afraid of trying new ideas. You also should avoid competing with others as if they’re your enemy. Maintain a good relationship with your competitors instead. Cooperation is an advantage in business. And finally, remember to work hard and learn from your mistakes. It’s the only way you’ll move forward.

HOW VALUABLE WOULD YOU SAY TAMKEEN’S SUPPORT WAS FOR YOUR BUSINESS?

Tamkeen’s help was invaluable to us. We always pride ourselves on being a 100% Bahraini brand, and Tamkeen’s support contributed towards making that a reality. The funding we received allowed us to purchase the type of machinery needed for our business. They have been there for us from the very beginning, and they are a fantastic initiative that will definitely help local businesses reach their goals.

WHAT DO YOU HOPE TO ACHIEVE NEXT? We are looking to continue expanding and open more branches. We want to be able to serve as many customers as possible around the Kingdom. We are very proud of the loyal fanbase we cultivated over the years. We cherish their support and realize that their continued support is essential if we are to grow and advance to the next stage. weddingdelights.com

TAMKEEN SPECIAL FEATURE

032

June 2020

Unbridled Ambition Holding the distinction of being the only nominee to win The Bahrain Award for Entrepreneurship twice, in 2017 and 2019, Mohammed Abdulaal was born with the entrepreneurial spirit. Driven by a passion to bring good quality food products to Bahrain, he founded All Food for foodstuff, which grew to become one of the key suppliers in the market. He talks to Durrah about what it takes to stand out from the competition and his pioneering venture of establishing Bahrain’s first cheese factory. WHAT ARE THE RANGE OF PRODUCTS OFFERED BY ALL FOOD? All Food offers a diverse range of fruit and vegetables. We sell only fresh produce and distribute water and dry items. Our product range is imported from around the world. We import from 30 countries including the North and South American countries, South Africa, Kenya, Egypt, Morocco, Thailand, China, India and many more. We serve a wide range of clientele that includes government entities, hotels, restaurants, supermarkets and more. We recently started delivering directly to our customers, mainly via our social media channels. Currently, we’re working on our All Food app, which we are very excited about!

CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT YOUR CHEESEMAKER VENTURE? The Cheesemaker is the first cheese factory made in Bahrain. We produce only the most

premium fresh Italian cheeses, as well as other products. The production team is led by an authentic Italian Cheese Master who possesses over 30 years of experience in this field. You can find The Cheesemaker products in several major hypermarkets around the Kingdom. We started work on it almost a year ago, and we’re happy to say that our operations have been performing up to our expectations.

HOW DID ALL FOOD MANAGE TO STAND OUT FROM THE COMPETITION IN SUCH A SATURATED MARKET? We have always adopted a professional approach to our way of conducting business. If you compare us to other similar offerings in the market, you will find that genuine quality is the major difference. Understanding the origins of imports plays a key role in achieving that. We are very strict with quality control. We implement thorough safety

measures at every stage, including the packaging, branding and redistribution of products. If you look at our clientele, you’ll find that most high-end customers love working with us. This is because we always meet their highest standards.

WHAT KIND OF SUPPORT DID YOU RECEIVE FROM? AND HOW HELPFUL WAS IT? Tamkeen is a very useful resource for local businesses. They provide them with the necessary support to establish their presence and further develop their products and services. For us, we benefited from Tamkeen’s technical support. They assisted us with the purchase of machinery, and their support factors into our expansion plans as well.

WHAT CONTRIBUTIONS HAVE YOU MADE TO THE COMMUNITY RECENTLY? Social responsibility is a big part of our DNA and we take it very seriously. We recently played

01 All Food founder, Mohammed Abdulaal 02, 03, 04 Some of the premium products offered by All Food

a major role in reducing the prices of fruits and vegetables in the market, providing the public with premium quality products that are also affordable. We are always collaborating with A Box of Goodness, which is an initiative that supports the less fortunate. Our contributions have reached many laborers in need. We also work closely with Al Noor Charitable Society.

WHAT ARE YOUR FUTURE PLANS? ANY OTHER PROJECTS YOU CAN SHARE WITH US? We have been growing steadily and recently opened a new branch in Riyadh. I’ve always had expansion plans in mind and now, we are working tirelessly on that aspect. As for other projects, I have plans to open a medical center soon. I’m also working on establishing a mask manufacturing company here in Bahrain. allfoodco.com 02

UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL

034

June 2020

As Big as Life Pursuing a lifelong passion, Faisal Kanoo has created an extraordinary collection – one that grew over time and became Bahrain’s first museum of life-size statues dedicated to the evolution of pop culture. Durrah visits the unique attraction and talks to Faisal Kanoo about his journey in realizing his dream and his future plans for the ever-expanding museum. 01 Faisal Kanoo

WHEN DID YOU DECIDE TO START A COLLECTION OF LIFE SIZE COLLECTABLES? AND WHAT SPARKED YOUR INTEREST IN THEM? It all started with my collection of comic books. Sources of entertainment were very, very limited during my childhood, so I immersed myself in comic books. They were my portal into an exciting universe of adventures filled with superheroes fighting injustice. I was enthralled! I would spend all my free time reading comic books and allowing my imagination to soar. As I grew older, I moved on to other pursuits and would occasionally read comic books from time to time. In the late 1990’s, my passion for the genre was reignited when I discovered companies were producing life-size statues of comic superheroes. I placed an order for life-size Superman and Batman statues. When they eventually arrived, they brought me an immense amount of personal joy. From that moment, I knew that collecting life-size statues was going to be my life-long hobby.

HOW MANY ITEMS DO YOU HAVE IN YOUR COLLECTION RIGHT NOW? IS THERE A PRIZED POSSESSION THAT STANDS ABOVE THE REST? I recently reviewed my inventory list, and currently have around 2,300 items in my collection. They

consist of life-size statues, busts, and props, as well as designer collectables, pop-culture art, paintings, and vintage toys. There is no individual item I like more than the others. I’ve been fortunate to curate a dynamic and diverse collection that continues to engage my interest and passion.

WHERE DO YOU SOURCE YOUR LIFE SIZE COLLECTABLES FROM? ARE THERE VENDORS OR ARTISTS THAT HAVE IMPRESSED YOU THE MOST? I get them from many sources. My preferred method is to purchase directly from the manufacturer. I also frequently travel to specialized conventions throughout the world, searching for new items to add to the collection. Fortunately, the internet has made the process of collecting much easier than it used to be. It allows me to search the world for lifesize statues and their prices, research designs and features, and gives me access to everything related to the statues, all from the comfort of my home.

POP CULTURE FROM SEVERAL DECADES FORM THE BULK OF YOUR COLLECTION. IS THERE A SHOW OR MOVIE THAT HAS RESONATED WITH YOU THE MOST THROUGHOUT YOUR LIFE? You are absolutely correct! The collection reflects

UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL

036

the evolution of pop culture. My eclectic taste in TV shows and movies has also evolved as I continue to expand my horizons with new experiences. However, I will always have a special affinity towards movies that are based on comic books. In my opinion, there has never been a better time to be a fan due to the huge influx of quality comic-based movies and TV shows from Marvel and DC.

ARE ALL THE ITEMS BASED ON POP CULTURE REFERENCES OR ARE THERE A FEW THAT WOULD SURPRISE VISITORS? The overarching criteria during the curation process is the size of the item. The statue must be life-size in order to be included in the collection. I initially started out collecting only comic book characters. As I ran out of items to purchase, I then started acquiring statues from other categories such as movies, video games, pop culture, and literature. Eventually, I also purchased statues of historical figures, sport athletes, and famous celebrities. I’m sure the variety in the collection will offer visitors a lot of pleasant surprises!

WITH SO MANY COLLECTABLES AND NEW ONES ADDED REGULARLY, DO YOU WORRY ABOUT RUNNING OUT SPACE? OR IS THERE A LONG WAY TO GO? The biggest issue of dealing with a collection of this size is space. These are life-size items, and as you can imagine, finding space to store them is a challenge. In the beginning, it was relatively easy to handle. As the collection grew exponentially, I had to scramble to find storage space with every new shipment. Designated storage spaces would quickly fill up, forcing me to find new places to safely secure my collection. Even though the situation is under control right now, I’m in the process of acquiring a bigger warehouse that will hopefully provide a permanent solution.

THE MUSEUM IS CURRENTLY PRIVATE, BUT ARE YOU PLANNING ON EVER OPENING IT TO THE PUBLIC? At first, all I wanted was to have a few statues to display in my cinema room. As the collection kept

June 2020

“Our vision is to create a unique

tourist attraction that will add to the many compelling reasons for tourists to visit Bahrain.” 02 Life-size Spiderman

03 Life-size Superman 04, 05, 06 Faisal Kanoo and several of his collectible items

06 04

on growing, I repurposed an external games room into the private museum. The visitors are always encouraging me to open the museum to the public, and I wholeheartedly agree with their sentiments. They can’t help but smile and enjoy themselves whenever they walk amongst the life-size statues. It’s a unique and positive experience that gives me joy to share with everyone. We’re currently developing a bespoke space specifically designed to display my entire collection to the public. Our vision is to create a unique tourist attraction that will add to the many compelling reasons for tourists to visit Bahrain. It’s going to be a lot of fun to design the displays and finally see the entire collection in all its glory.

CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT FUTURE ADDITIONS TO THE COLLECTION? WHAT ITEMS ARE NEXT IN LINE? I’ve always aimed to create a world class collection both in terms of scope and quality. It must also be kept up to date. With the endless creativity in the world, I’m sure that there will be plenty more opportunities for the collection to grow and continue tracking the evolution of pop culture. The future additions to the collections are entirely contingent on the items that the various manufacturers will produce. I don’t personally commission statues, so I tend to wait and see what the companies have to offer. If I it meets my criteria, I will definitely add it to the collection. I’m thoroughly enjoying the present collection but I’m eagerly excited to see future additions!

UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL

038

June 2020

Made in Italy Few names in fashion can claim to be synonymous with the industry, but Dolce&Gabbana has achieved exactly that. For over 35 years, the Italian brand has been a leader of reinvention, shattering preconceived notions about style and taste. Founders Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana reflect on their creative process and ‘Made In Italy’ mantra, as they open up to Durrah on the current global circumstances and how it stirred their emotions, compelling them to take action.

01 Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana

HOW IS D&G FARING AGAINST THE IMPACT OF THE CORONAVIRUS PANDEMIC? DD: This crisis has deeply affected us. It made us stop for a moment to think about the really important values of life, family, affections, all of which are taken for granted too many times. We are often overwhelmed by the events and the speed with which they happen, by the rules of marketing and finance. The time has come for everyone to stop and think about what is worth living and working for. SG: In recent months, I have been impressed by the incredible work of doctors, nurses and health personnel in the fight against the coronavirus, an invisible but ruthless enemy. The constancy and courage they showed deeply moved us. I believe that once all this is done, we will all be a little different, more human and attentive to the needs of the others.

THE FASHION INDUSTRY HAS SURVIVED ECONOMIC RECESSIONS AND CRISES BEFORE. IS THIS ITS BIGGEST TEST YET? DD: It will probably be the hardest test, but we are confident that we will overcome this as well. We have always looked to the future with resourcefulness and the desire to do, invent, create, then undo and put everything back together. And it’s not just about style or fashion. It is our life and our greatest passion. Through our collections, we will never stop telling stories of love, authentic beauty and Made in Italy. SG: Today, we stand together as never before. We truly believe that we should focus on Made in Italy because it is our highest value. We are lucky to live in a country that has an incredible artistic and cultural heritage and we are proud to be able to shed light, with our work, on the craft masteries that, even today, represent excellence.

UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL

040

02, 03, 04, 05, 06 Dolce&Gabbana’s Spring Summer 2020 women’s collection

June 2020

“We shared one goal. The love and

enthusiasm that we have always put into our work have brought us to today. ”

YOU ARE COLLABORATING WITH HUMANITAS UNIVERSITY WHICH IS CARRYING OUT STUDIES IN RESPONSE TO COVID-19. WHAT MADE YOU CHOOSE THEM IN PARTICULAR? AND WHAT DO YOU HOPE CAN BE ACHIEVED THROUGH THIS PROJECT?

05 06

SG: We felt we had to do something to fight this devastating virus, which is threatening us all. In such a sensitive situation, it’s important to make the right choice. This is why we believe Humanitas University is the ideal partner. Its excellence and love of humanity makes it a special entity, meriting our cooperation on a scholarship project. DD: In the face of tragedies on such a vast scale, individual action may seem insignificant. But Prof. Mantovani told us the African fable of a hummingbird: while all the other animals were fleeing from a fire in the forest, it flew in the opposite direction, continuing to bring water in the attempt to put out the fire. We understood that in any case, it was worth doing something. Even a very small gesture can have enormous significance. Supporting scientific research is a moral duty for us, we hope our contribution will contribute to solving this crisis.

ALMOST EVERY BUSINESS IN THE WORLD IS INCREASING ITS DIGITAL PRESENCE IN HOPES OF OFFSETTING THE ECONOMIC EFFECTS OF THE PANDEMIC. IS D&G GOING IN THAT DIRECTION AS WELL? WHAT ARE YOUR EXPECTATIONS FROM IT? SG: We think that now, more than ever, we could consider “digital” as a major trend. We truly believe in the importance of human touch, but it is also true that now we can explore and take advantage of the wide range of possibilities the internet is offering us. For example, recently we shared a pilot-video, which features the clients, our clothes, and accessories, simulating a real

shopping experience, as it would happen in the boutique. This is our way to make our clients feel our closeness in the age of social distancing. We have always looked to the future with positivity because there is always something to learn, even from difficulties. DD: Nowadays, we are focusing a lot on social media networks to maintain contact with our customers and friends. It is important for us to continue telling who we are, to transmit our passion for fashion and the values that are part of Dolce&Gabbana’s DNA. Recently, we also launched the #DGFATTOINCASA project, which consists of video content made at home and posted on our Instagram account. This allows artisans, friends and celebrities to create a series of virtual appointments and reach our users directly but in a “different” way.

THE WORLD HAS COME TO HAVE THE HIGHEST EXPECTATIONS FROM D&G. DOES THIS MEAN THE CREATIVE PROCESS NOW MUST INCLUDE PLEASING THE WORLD? OR IS EXECUTING THE PERSONAL VISION OF D&G STILL THE PRIORITY? DD: Certainly, enhancing your creative and manual skills is something that brings you back to your nature, to the authenticity of being, something that allows you to rediscover an intimate and perhaps hidden part of yourself, not entirely expressed. For example, I am drawing a lot and preparing several sketches in this period. I feel happy and satisfied when I dedicate myself completely to this activity. I won’t renounce it and keep going forward always freely. SG: Fashion must reflect reality. It must keep up with the desires of people who today, understandably, are even more changeable. It is difficult to make long-term predictions, but we will do what we deem most appropriate considering that people, at this moment, have no great desire to buy and this must be respected.

UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL

042

07, 08, 09, 10, 11 Dolce&Gabbana’s ‘Sicilian Jungle’ themed fashion show

June 2020

IS THERE A TYPE OF COLLECTION THAT WAS ALWAYS ON YOUR AGENDA TO DESIGN BUT NEVER HAPPENED? ONE THAT ALWAYS ENDS UP BEING FOR NEXT TIME? DD: It’s not about a single collection. As we always say, we don’t care about being remembered, because we are “trendy”. What we want is to tell a story about love for artisanal products, fashion, life and our roots. We use this approach for all our collections.

AT THIS LEVEL OF SUCCESS, HOW DO YOU STILL CHALLENGE YOURSELVES? SG: We must always demand the best from ourselves, even after 36 years. It seems like it was only yesterday that Domenico and I started. The first years were tiring. We were in the office seven days a week, never a day of vacation. We shared one goal. The love and enthusiasm that we have always put into our work have brought us to today. Without this “mood”, we would never have achieved all this success. dolcegabbana.com

UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL

044

MEGA-CITY OF THE FUTURE 01 Diyar Al Muharraq CEO, Eng. Ahmed Alammadi 02 Diyar Al Muharraq masterplan

Diyar Al Muharraq CEO, Eng. Ahmed Alammadi shares the latest developments of the 12 square kilometer masterplan and what it takes to manage one of Bahrain’s largest real estate projects.

HOW HAS WORK ON DIYAR AL MUHARRAQ BEEN PROGRESSING SO FAR? 2019 was a very productive and successful year for Diyar Al Muharraq, as we became the first development company to be licensed by RERA, in addition to achieving and exceeding our yearly goals in terms of infrastructure and construction. We successfully operated 8 main electrical stations outputting 66KV and completed 159 sub-stations outputting 11KV, as well as 100% completion of the installation of optical lights on all the roads. The construction of Hadiqat Al Diyar, the biggest recreational park in Diyar, along with landscaping and irrigation systems in the Southern island have all been completed. Additionally, infrastructure works, the construction and handover of several different residential and commercial projects has been completed, with the addition of the launch of phase one of our air-conditioned bus shelters. We are continuing our path of productivity and success in the year 2020 with many projects in the pipeline, starting with the second phase of the scenic Al Bareh Villas, 50 and 98 villas of Al Naseem Gated Community Villas, the addition of mosques and community facilities in Deerat Al Oyoun, and a lot more. Our accomplishments in 2019 include completing

June 2020

construction of Deerat Al Oyoun Affordable Housing Project and handing over 277 villas, completion of Deerat Al Oyoun Social Housing with 1921 units completed on behalf of the Ministry of Housing, sale of 70% of Al Naseem Phase 1 and many more.

CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT THE KEY FEATURES OR ASPECTS OF DIYAR AL MUHARRAQ? Diyar Al Muharraq is the future of real estate. It is one of the largest, most visionary and progressive urban developments in the Kingdom of Bahrain. It is a city that was designed for all people, with consideration for social, economic and environmental impact, and our vision was to create a sustainable future for Bahrain. From a social aspect, we found it important to incorporate mosques, schools, playgrounds, community centers into the masterplan; sticking to the roots of our beloved Kingdom in attempts to create a close-knit community. From an economic point of view, our vision for the city was for it to be completely independent and sustainable, the first of its kind in the Kingdom. In simple terms, we have and still are creating a tourist destination

where people come to stay at hotels, have fun and relax on the beach, go shopping, in addition to dining in the city. In parallel, Diyar Al Muharraq offers a cohesive mix of residential and commercial projects, for personal and investment purposes, aimed at creating a future sustainable township that will significantly contribute to the socio-economic development of the Kingdom of Bahrain. We provide investors with long-term sustainability, as the city grows and expands, adding monetary value to their properties through creating tourist hotspots such as world-class hotels and luxury shopping malls. Investment opportunities in Diyar Al Muharraq range from villas and residential plots to commercial villa plots, warehousing, showrooms and industrial plots. The location of the city is key to businesses in the commercial and industrial sectors, as the city is located only minutes away from the Kingdom’s main port, cutting down shipment times and costs on investors who are transporting goods to their warehouses and showrooms. Finally, from an environmental aspect, our main goal was to preserve the land we live on. Meaning to reduce our carbon footprint by implementing various measures, such as

the incorporation of solar energy, using energy-saving LED lights, using smart energy-saving technology in our properties, automating the irrigation system to reduce water consumption, and many more.

WHAT SETS DIYAR AL MUHARRAQ’S SHOPPING MALLS APART FROM OTHER MALLS IN THE KINGDOM? We at Diyar Al Muharraq, believe in being innWe at Diyar Al Muharraq, believe in being innovators and leading by example. The shopping malls in Diyar Al Muharraq are unique from what’s available in the market. We began our journey with the first shopping mall, Dragon City Bahrain Mall, which is a first of its kind Chinese market, and the success behind this mall was to offer a new and wide range of products that are exclusive to this mall. The mall attracted customers from all over the region, recording an outstanding footfall of 32.7 million up until May 2020. Following the success of Dragon City Bahrain Mall, we have established ThaiMart, which is a first of its kind Thai-inspired shopping center in the entire region, with over 120 retail spaces, ready to launch in 2020, in addition to Souq Al Baraha traditionally

UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL

046

June 2020

“Diyar Al Muharraq is a relatively

new city in Muharraq and it will continue to grow and transform over the coming years. ”

inspired mall and Marassi Galleria one of the biggest malls in the Kingdom. Souq Al Baraha is anticipated to have over 480 retail stores, including shops that sell fresh produce and food items, such as the fish market, fruits and vegetables market, meat and poultry market, general household goods, tailors, gold and jewelry shops, and traditional Bahraini products ranging from foods to handcrafts.

WHAT TYPE OF COMMUNITY DOES DIYAR AL MUHARRAQ HAVE OR AIM TO HAVE? Bahrain has always been known for being the most welcoming community in the region, and our vision is in line with our Bahraini heritage. We aim to create a close-knit community where people know and interact with their neighbors. While we are innovators, we always aim to provide state of the art facilities and communal spaces to encourage social interaction. With that being said, we heavily invested in the infrastructure to incorporate interconnected walking and bicycle paths throughout the city, in addition to open spaces, playgrounds, community centers, and Hadiqat Al Diyar; the biggest park in the city that includes picnic areas, a food truck area, sports activities and more.

WHAT MEASURES HAVE YOU TAKEN TO ENSURE DIYAR AL MUHARRAQ IS SUSTAINABLE AND ENVIRONMENTFRIENDLY? The infrastructure installed in Diyar Al Muharraq is state of the art, designed to highest standards. Additionally, we introduced the use of solar energy in our projects, relying on sustainable energy sources. In efforts to reduce our carbon footprint, we eliminated

the requirement of having tankers and reduced the required number of service vehicles by installing a complete Treated Sewage Effluent network at the entrance of the city, connected with a number of strategic sub-reservoirs through remote fiber optic communications, serving the entire South island. In other efforts to reduce the carbon footprint of shipping and trucking, we have used local rock where possible in the reclamation process. Other examples of incorporating new technologies into traditional engineering is the introduction of gravity networks for foul water using modern tunneling methods to depths in excess of 20 meters. Additionally, Diyar Al Muharraq has introduced additional outfalls for stormwater throughout the city, directing the rainfall into the sea without the use of any mechanical equipment.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE THE STATE OF BAHRAIN’S REAL ESTATE MARKET RECENTLY? The real estate market in Bahrain has witnessed a spike up with the increase of consumer demand for villas. With the support of the Ministry of Housing, Bahraini nationals have shifted from being on waiting lists to move into their dream homes. With the ease of processes and widespread options of real estate properties, the Kingdom has also managed to attract foreign nationals looking for investment opportunities. Both cases are true to Diyar Al Muharraq, as the market has been receptive to our freehold properties that are suitable as investments and dream homes. Our success is a result of providing property seekers with the opportunity to live in a community that encompasses all their needs within its border such as educational and medical facilities, with the addition of

various family-oriented activities to take advantage of, and the many recreational facilities available such as the beach, malls and parks.

WHAT ARE THE MAIN CHALLENGES IN MANAGING SUCH AN ENORMOUS PROJECT? Managing an enormous project, a city, is centered around finding the right balance between the various key drivers and objectives, which include, securing a reliable and decent ROI and IRR for the investors, delivering a wide range of projects in a timely manner, achieving the highest levels of quality and customer satisfaction, to reflect on the Kingdom being a premier destination for real estate investment. For a project of this size, having a strong strategic direction from the planning stages to the exit strategies is key. It is important to establish a competitive advantage and set a benchmark during all stages of development. Internal and External stakeholders should be carefully monitored and managed to ensure that their objectives are being met. Teams must secure supply chains both nationally and internationally, while ensuring that the quality standards are met, in addition to supporting the local market and the national economy. Finally, to limit surprise challenges in a plan that has very little room for error, heavy research and monitoring should be a continuous task at all stages of development, to manage all risks.

WHAT WILL BE THE NEXT PHASE FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF THIS PROJECT? Diyar Al Muharraq is a relatively new city in Muharraq and it will continue to grow and transform over the coming years. The increase in residential population and the opening of schools and one of the Kingdom’s largest malls will result in an increase in footfall over the next couple of years. The current development plans include the expansion of both on-going and completed projects in the Southern island, followed by the construction of the primary infrastructure networks to the Northern island. With the recent global events on the pandemic, it is important that we stay focused on our plans and continue to carry out our jobs in a responsible manner. With that being said, we have new and exciting projects in the pipeline that will not only compliment Diyar Al Muharraq as a city, but also drive foreign investors and visitors to the Kingdom of Bahrain. diyar.bh

UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL

048

June 2020

TRADITION of Quality Durrah explores the latest models, features and initiatives of one of the most popular Japanese automotive brands with Nissan Bahrain General Manager, Anas Abdulla.

CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT NEW MODELS NISSAN IS PLANNING TO LAUNCH THIS YEAR? We have just launched the all-new Nissan Sunny 2020 in April, which features a bold new look, advanced powertrains and technology features. This model builds on elements of the popular C-segment favorite, and gives it a striking upgrade that provides an enhanced driving experience at a highly affordable price. The all-new Nissan Sunny 2020 is also equipped with brand-new NIM features, making it the only car in its segment to have such advanced technology features that helps keep drivers safe and connects them to the world like never before. We do have some more exciting new models that are set to be launched later in the year, and we will share further details in due course.

WHICH NISSAN MODELS HAVE BEEN THE BEST SELLERS IN THIS REGION RECENTLY? Nissan continued to strengthen its performance in the region over the past year, growing in terms of sales, market share, customer satisfaction and

brand power. In FY19, The Nissan Patrol range sustained its segment domination, boosted by the launch of the new Nissan Patrol 2020, as well as the existing Super Safari variants such as the Nissan Patrol Gazelle and Falcon. In our last financial year, the Nissan Sunny also maintained its segment leadership, and we expect this to grow this year with the launch of the all-new Nissan Sunny 2020. And lastly, our fuel-efficient options including the Nissan Kicks and Altima also saw an increase in sales in FY19. The Kicks sales were accelerated by the car’s dual-tone variant launch, whereas the Altima’s sales were supported by the all-new model launch.

WHAT IS NISSAN DOING TO STAND OUT FROM THE COMPETITION IN ITS MARKET SEGMENT? Our diverse product offerings and Nissan’s Intelligent Mobility (NIM) strategy, which defines the way cars are powered, driven and integrated into society, has played a large part in attracting target audiences across various market segments, who

01 Nissan Bahrain General Manager, Anas Abdulla

UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL

050

June 2020

“Our approach to innovation is not

are eager for customized and futuristic experiences. Nissan has also been able to overcome and grow market share by keeping industry-leading customer service at the core of our strategy – we are concentrating our efforts on driving innovation, with a focus on offering the best vehicle line-up across all segments, along with top-quality customer services and tools that will be integrated for a seamless purchasing journey across tangible and digital touch points.

embracing tech for tech’s sake but how its application is integrated in society safely and seamlessly. ”

ARE THERE NEW TECHNOLOGIES THAT NISSAN IS PLANNING TO IMPLEMENT OR CAPITALIZE ON? We remain focused on Nissan Intelligent Mobility (NIM), a suite of integrated technology designed to increase safety, comfort, and control while driving, connecting drivers with the vehicle and the world around them. Nissan has accelerated the development of NIM on a global level to tackle issues faced by the automotive industry such as climate change, air pollution and traffic-related accidents, as it continues to promote the joys of driving and traveling in a safe, comfortable environment. Nissan Intelligent Mobility comprises of three elements: Intelligent Driving, Nissan Intelligent Power, and Nissan Intelligent Integration. Nissan Intelligent Driving continues to push the envelope in AI development, combining sensing technology that monitors and collects information surrounding the vehicle, AI technology capable of accurately analyzing collected information, and technology that can control cars with precision. Nissan Intelligent Power leverages Nissan’s accumulative knowledge in electric motor management to lead the dissemination of electric drive technology in the industry. Nissan Intelligent Integration will establish new roles for automobiles as an integral part of society that contributes to the improvement of people’s lives, beyond just being a mode of transportation to becoming part of the social infrastructure.

IN YOUR OPINION, WHAT ARE THE VALUES THAT DEFINE THE NISSAN BRAND? At Nissan, we deliver ‘Innovation that Excites’. We firmly believe technology innovations should be available for all – and our R&D team works constantly on innovative new technologies that can be embedded into our vehicles. Our approach to innovation is not embracing tech for tech’s sake

but how its application is integrated in society safely and seamlessly. We at Nissan, through our offerings, want to help move everyone to a safe, sustainable, and exciting world.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE THE CUSTOMER PROFILE OF THE NISSAN BRAND? Our large and varied line-up for the region allows us to reach out to a wide audience base. From affordable car seekers who have options like the all-new Sunny, to those interested in luxury options such as our iconic Patrol. Consumers looking for family-friendly cars can go for the Maxima, or adventurous drivers looking for a sport model can opt for our legendary GT-R – we have it all. The range of innovative tech options available for each product are also in line with consumer demands, targeting different audience segments to enrich their mobility experience.

HOW IS NISSAN COPING WITH THE DIFFICULT ECONOMIC CONDITIONS AFFECTING THE WORLD THIS YEAR? The world is undergoing unprecedented challenges as we deal with the outbreak of the coronavirus (COVID-19). The well-being of our community remains our number one priority, and we have taken all the necessary precautionary measures, both internally and externally, in accordance with government directives. We at Nissan are standing in solidarity with governments and healthcare professionals and urge everyone to stay indoors. Our recent video, ‘Ode to Empty Roads’ communicates this sentiment – for all to stay

home and stay safe in order to pull through these uncertain times and overcome this crisis together. We are also extending our support to customers during the lockdown period by enabling customer focused initiatives and providing services that adhere to hygiene and social distancing guidelines set out by the government.

WHAT ARE THE LONG-TERM PLANS FOR NISSAN? Nissan Middle East remains committed to bringing innovation and excitement to all its customers. Over the past year, we have maintained operational excellence across our product line-up, while finding new ways to connect and engage with our customers, which has led to our growth in market share. Building on this strong foundation, we are geared to unlock potential in Bahrain by targeting strategic growth areas including the sedan and SUV segments, launching refreshed models and network expansion. Also, we are concentrating our efforts on driving innovation and increasing market share, with a focus on offering the best vehicle line-up across all segments, along with top-quality customer services and tools that will be integrated for a seamless purchasing journey across tangible and digital touch points. Overall, we believe that there is a lot of opportunity for Nissan to drive growth across all segments in Bahrain, and we will work closely with our partners over the coming months to strengthen the footprint of the Nissan brand and our portfolio of products, ultimately increasing market share. nissanbahrain.com

UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL

052

Elevating the Aviation Experience

June 2020

Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation President, Mark Burns reveals how the 60+ year manufacturer of the most advanced business aircraft became the go-to brand for private jet clientele. HOW BIG IS GULFSTREAM AEROSPACE’S FLEET? CAN YOU TAKE US THROUGH THE MOST NOTABLE AIRCRAFTS AND WHAT THEY OFFER? More than 2,900 Gulfstream aircraft are in service with customers around the world. Gulfstream’s comprehensive product line offers an exceptional combination of safety, comfort, performance and value in each segment of the super-mid to ultra-largecabin business-jet market. The flagship Gulfstream G700, introduced October 2019, is the most spacious, best-performing aircraft in the business-jet industry. In this same next-generation aircraft family are the award-winning G500 and G600, which introduced the innovative Symmetry Flight Deck featured on these three aircraft. The Symmetry Flight Deck is a great safety differentiator for pilots and passengers thanks to its electronically linked active-control sidesticks, the first in civil aviation, and the industry’s most extensive use of touch-screen technology. The G650 and G650ER raised standards for business aviation when they were introduced, also with class-leading ultra-long-ranges and high speeds. Like the G700,

the G650ER has the longest range at the highest speeds and provides outstanding mission flexibility. All Gulfstream’s large-cabin aircraft are known for signature Gulfstream panoramic windows, low cabin altitudes and 100% fresh cabin air. The G280 rounds out Gulfstream’s aircraft offerings with its super-midsize cabin and large-cabin performance characteristics.

WHAT WERE THE MAJOR MILESTONES OR ACCOMPLISHMENTS THAT GULFSTREAM ACHIEVED RECENTLY? Gulfstream is making great progress in the G700 development program. The first test aircraft flew on Feb. 14, followed by the second in March and the third in May, demonstrating the maturity of this industry-leading program. The three flight-test aircraft have flown more than 100 hours, reached a maximum altitude of 54,000 ft/16,459 m and a maximum speed of Mach 0.94, and the preliminary handling characteristics are excellent. The G600 was also recently certified by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency, clearing the way for customer deliveries in Europe.

IN YOUR OPINION, WHAT ARE THE QUALITIES THAT HAVE ESTABLISHED GULFSTREAM AEROSPACE AS A MARKET LEADER? Gulfstream has a long tradition, going back to 1958 and the Gulfstream I, the first purpose-built business aircraft, of producing cutting-edge aircraft and delivering on the promises we make to our customers. Every succeeding aircraft generation has featured new innovations, and we have guaranteed or exceeded the standards we set for safety, performance and comfort. One example of this can be seen with the G650ER, which holds the record for the longest, fastest business jet flight in history, from Singapore to Tucson, Ariz., at an average speed of 597 miles per hour/960 km per hour over a distance of 8,379 nm/15,518 km. The G650ER’s performance beat the previous record by 44 minutes and more than 225 nm/417 km. The G650 and the G650ER combined hold more than 100 city-pair records, and they also feature an industry-leading and award-winning cabin. During certification and testing of the G500 and G600, these aircraft

“Gulfstream’s

comprehensive product line offers an exceptional combination of safety, comfort, performance and value in each segment of the super-mid to ultralarge-cabin business-jet market.”

01 Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation President, Mark Burns

UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL

054

02 The Gulfstream G700 is the most spacious best-performing aircraft in the business-jet industry 03 More than 2,900 Gulfstream aircraft are in service with customers around the world 04, 05 Gulfstream aircrafts all feature spacious interior

June 2020

Department of Public Health and its Department of Epidemiology. We have also turned our philanthropic efforts toward supporting the communities in which we live and work by donating supplies and making financial contributions to hospitals, governments and non-profit organizations on the front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic.

WHAT ARE THE MAIN CHALLENGES FACING A COMPANY LIKE GULFSTREAM AEROSPACE? While economic and geopolitical fluctuations around the world impact many aspects of our industry, we fortunately have a diverse backlog both in terms of product mix and geography that helps us weather those fluctuations. 05

demonstrated higher ranges than initially projected, allowing us to give our customers a better advantage with longer flights at faster speeds. We followed this up with the introduction of the G700 as the industry’s only aircraft that can fly farther faster with the most spacious cabin.

IS GULFSTREAM TAKING ANY SPECIAL SAFETY MEASURES CONSIDERING THE CURRENT WORLDWIDE CIRCUMSTANCES? Since news of the coronavirus emerged, we have proactively implemented disease-mitigation measures recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and World Health Organization (WHO). We have implemented social distancing measures, established on-site temperature screenings, provided on-site employees with personal protective equipment, increased the frequency and intensity of facility cleanings and encouraged employees to stay home if they feel unwell. Additionally, when news of the coronavirus first emerged, we retained the services of an infectious disease doctor, who is a Harvard Medical School graduate, to review all our worker safety measures. He is a member of the company’s internal COVID-19 steering committee and participates in all medically related COVID-19 decision-making. We are also coordinating closely with the Georgia

WHAT MEASURES DOES GULFSTREAM AEROSPACE TAKE TO BE MORE ECOFRIENDLY? Gulfstream has been among business aviation’s leaders in sustainability since 2011, when a G450 became the first business jet to cross the Atlantic on sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). Since then, we have taken additional steps to support sustainability, including becoming the first business-jet manufacturer with a dedicated supply of sustainable alternative fuels. We have flown more than 1 million nautical miles with this fuel on our corporate, demonstration, customer support and flight-test fleets. Gulfstream was also the first business-jet manufacturer to offer SAF directly to customers. We have also long been committed to being good stewards of the environment by focusing on low-noise, low-emission and fuel-efficient aircraft. Much of this has come through technological innovation, including the use of winglets, advanced aerodynamics, state-of-the-art avionics and more efficient engines.

WHAT SHOULD WE EXPECT NEXT FROM GULFSTREAM AEROSPACE? A continued focus on innovative products and services, including more worldwide deliveries of the G500 and G600 and certification and customer deliveries of the G700. gulfstream.com

JEWELLERY

056

June 2020

Nature’s Jewels Official partner to the Cannes International Film Festival since 1998, Chopard annually unveils an Haute Joaillerie collection named Red Carpet. For the 2020 Red Carpet Collection, Chopard’s creative genius pays tribute to nature.

The Red Carpet Collection features as many creations as the year of the Cannes International Film Festival’s existence. This year, as part of its Journey to Sustainable Luxury, the Maison has decided to celebrate the environment, along with its flora and fauna, by choosing ‘Nature’ as the main theme of this 73-piece collection. The Chopard ateliers, located in Geneva, are the largest Haute Joaillerie workshops in Switzerland: sculptor-jewellers, lapidaries, gem-setters and polishers. From simple lines to generous volumes, from working on gold to precious stones, these talented craftsmen push back the limits of the possible and, by combining their talents, give life to the jewels in this prestigious collection. Living up to its Red Carpet name, it is destined to sparkle on the Palais des Festivals steps as it adorns the most beautiful actresses during the official presentation of their films.

Chopard is thus exclusively revealing the first creations stemming from the brilliant talent deployed in its workshops: an “Owl” jewellery watch featuring two dials surrounded by multicoloured sapphires forming the eyes of the nocturnal creature; a pair of “Orchids” earrings featuring incredibly natural-looking sapphire petals and tsavorite buds; “Gingko” earrings and ring composed of pear-shaped emeralds, tsavorites and yellow sapphires in shades evoking the foliage of this majestic tree; as well as a series of “Polar bear” and “Seal” diamond rings. The Artisans of the Maison will craft a series of necklaces, rings, earrings and bracelets made of precious stones. Their original designs depicting animals and plants look even more realistic than the models in Nature on which they are based. Driven by Artistic Director Caroline Scheufele’s passion for cinema, the Maison Chopard has been

01 Owl timepiece in ethical 18-carat white gold, set with brilliant-cut (7.5cts) and trapeze-cut (1.6ct) diamonds as well as trapeze-cut multicolored sapphires (4.1cts)

“The Artisans of the Maison will craft a series of necklaces, rings, earrings and bracelets made of precious stones.”

02 Seal ring in ethical 18-carat white gold set with brilliant-cut diamonds (4.7cts), brilliant-cut coloured diamonds (4.1cts) and cabochon-cut topazes 03 White teddy bears ring in ethical 18-carat white gold set with brilliant-cut diamonds (9cts), cabochon-cut sapphires and onyx 04 Polar bear ring in ethical 18-carat white gold set with brilliant-cut diamonds (12.5cts), cabochoncut sapphires and black diamonds

JEWELLERY

05 Matching ring in ethical 18-carat rose gold and titanium set with a 5.05-carat pear-shaped emerald as well as brilliant-cut tsavorites (2cts) and yellow sapphires (1.4ct). Ref. 828320-3001 06 Orchids earrings in titanium set with four black cabochoncut opals (totaling 5.3cts), as well as brilliant-cut sapphires (16.9cts), tsavorites (8.5cts) and tourmalines (4.7cts)

058

an official partner to the Cannes International Film Festival since 1998. Its workshops give rise to all the trophies awarded at the Festival’s closing ceremony – including the most coveted of them all, the Palme d’or, composed of 118 grams of Fairmined certified ethical gold and a solid block of rock crystal. Since 2001, the Maison has also showcased youthful talents in the world known as the “seventh art” through the Trophée Chopard: an award ceremony included in the official Festival calendar and which annually rewards an up-and-coming actress and actor. chopard.com

05 06

07 07 Gingko earrings in ethical 18-carat rose gold and titanium set with pear-shaped emeralds (33.3cts) as well as brilliant-cut yellow sapphires (16.5cts) and tsavorites (14.9cts)

June 2020

UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL

060

June 2020

TIMELESS CREATIVITY IWC Schaffhausen’s Creative Director Christian Knoop discusses the brand’s creative approach, its latest models, and the challenges and opportunities shaping the industry.

01 Portugieser Automatic 40, 18 ct 5n Gold Case 02 Christian Knoop, Creative Director At IWC Schaffhausen

CAN YOU TELL US A BIT ABOUT THE NEW PORTUGIESER MODELS LAUNCHED THIS YEAR?

Created in the late 1930s as a “marinechronometer-precision” wristwatch, the Portugieser is one of our most prestigious product lines. The deck observation watches of the time inspired its clean and functional dial and it has hardly changed since then. We designed the new collection with a lot of respect for the history and design DNA of the original Portugieser. We are proud that this is an all-manufacture collection and the new models are fitted with IWC-manufactured calibres. For the first time, we have equipped the Portugieser Chronograph with an in-house movement from the 69000 calibre family. Alongside the Portugieser Automatic 40, the Portugieser Perpetual Calendar 42, and the third generation Portugieser Yacht Club, we have unveiled the Portugieser Yacht Club Moon & Tide, which is the first IWC watch with our newly developed mechanical tide indication. We also presented a selection of Boutique Editions in an overarching maritime design code in gold and blue,

including two high watchmaking references with tourbillons.

HOW HAS THE RECEPTION BEEN FOR THE RECENTLY UNVEILED BIG PILOT BLACK CARBON? The reaction has been incredibly positive. IWC is known for functional and user-friendly complications like the perpetual calendar and has also gained unique expertise in the field of innovative case materials. During the 1980s, we were one of the first brands to present cases made of titanium and ceramic. Today, we specialise in highly engineered watch cases made of advanced technical material, such as titanium-aluminide and Ceratanium. The Big Pilot’s Watch Edition “Black Carbon” is our most recent material innovation. Its case is made of a carbon fibre reinforced highperformance polymer, which is manufactured using a sophisticated pressing process developed in Switzerland. The finished components are 40 per cent lighter than aluminium and highly resistant to deformation and fractures.

UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL

062

WHAT DO YOU PERSONALLY LOOK FOR IN A WATCH?

WHAT IS THE IWC DNA FORMULA? WHAT MAKES A WATCH PART OF THE IWC FAMILY?

WHAT ARE THE LATEST TRENDS IN THE WATCH DESIGN WORLD?

To understand the IWC DNA formula, you must go back to our founding story. In 1868, the American watchmaker Florentine Ariosto Jones established IWC in Schaffhausen. His idea was to combine advanced manufacturing methods from his homeland with the experience and craftsmanship of Swiss watchmakers to produce extremely precise and reliable pocket watches. These timekeeping instruments soon found their way into applications where robustness, reliability, and precision mattered. This unique engineering approach and the tradition of creating highly reliable instrument watches still define our DNA. While other watchmakers may build complex complications just because it is technically possible, IWC has a more straightforward approach. Our engineers address concrete challenges and come up with technically elegant solutions that are practical and easy for customers to use. What sets IWC apart is that we aim to find the perfect balance between form and function and follow a modest and understated approach when it comes to design execution.

IWC has never been a brand to jump on short-lived trends and fashionable flavours, but we have been setting trends in our own right. If you work for a brand with a history like IWC, you have to balance the role of a forward-thinker with the responsibility of a brand-guardian. Designing a new product in this context means creating something that combines these two qualities and will remain aesthetically relevant for a long time. The green and red dials, which we present with two new models of the Portugieser Chronograph are a relatively recent development. Green dials have enjoyed growing success since we launched our Spitfire collection in the Pilot’s Watches family, and we also introduced burgundy red on the Big Pilot’s Watch Perpetual Calendar Edition “Lewis Hamilton”.

Timepieces that perfectly combine a brand’s DNA with a new and surprising aspect fascinate me. In my opinion, the new Portugieser Yacht Club Moon & Tide is an excellent example of how you can respect a brand’s heritage and still come up with something new.

WHAT ARE THE BIGGEST CHALLENGES FACING THE WATCH INDUSTRY RIGHT NOW? During this unprecedented situation, I believe that many people will take more time to decide what products they buy, what these products stand for, and what values they embody. Sustainability will become even more important in the future and people will probably no longer want to buy a product with a limited lifespan that has been shipped around the world six times. IWC design and manufacture our products with a very high level of vertical integration locally in Switzerland. We do this as sustainably as possible using responsibly sourced materials. Our product is engineered to last for generations, providing its owner with a lifetime of joy. I am convinced that there will be room for such a product, especially when people rethink their habits as consumers.

HOW DO YOU SEE IWC’S CREATIVE APPROACH EVOLVING IN THE COMING YEARS? Our creative approach has evolved over the years to become much more technology-driven and integrated. Decades ago, a designer and a watchmaker were the only people involved in the development of a new watch. Nowadays, there are many more disciplines, including designers, movement and case engineers, material scientists, product management, marketing and sales, after-sales, and purchasing. Having all these people around the table contributes to a far better product. Moreover, applying state-of-the-art technology in the design and development process enables us to improve the extremely high levels of consistency and quality our products are known for. I expect that the digitalisation of creative instruments and processes will continue well into the future.

WHICH WATCH HAVE YOU ENJOYED WORKING ON THE MOST IN YOUR CAREER? When I joined IWC almost 12 years ago, one of the first watches I got to work on was the Portugieser Yacht Club Chronograph. This timepiece will always hold a special place for me. The first IWC Yacht Club was introduced in 1967 and designed as an elegant, yet sporty timepiece suitable for every occasion. When we launched the Portugieser Yacht Club Chronograph in 2010, we revived that famous name and created a sportier interpretation distinguished by its robustness and water resistance. I am excited that we are now launching the third generation of the Portugieser Yacht Club in a 44-millimetre case with reworked proportions, a carefully refined dial layout, as well as a newly developed and beautifully detailed metal bracelet.

June 2020

iwc.com

“Our creative approach has evolved

over the years to become much more technology-driven and integrated.” 05

03 Portugieser 1939 ref 325 04 Portugieser Yacht Club Chronograph, Stainless Steel Case And Bracelet 05 Portugieser Yacht Club Moon & Tide Boutique Edition 18-Carat 5n Gold Case 06 Portugieser Perpetual Calendar Boutique Edition 44.2 18-Carat Armor Gold® Case 07 Portugieser Perpetual Calendar Tourbillon Platinum Case, Limited To 50 Pueces Worldwide

UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL

064

June 2020

Remastering the Past Michael Friedman, Audemars Piguet’s Head of Complications, highlights the importance of preserving the brand’s heritage while moving towards the future. 01 Michael Friedman, Head of Complications, Audemars Piguet 02 New [Re]master01 timepiece, limited edition of 500 pieces

HERITAGE IS A BIG PART OF AP’S IDENTITY. HOW DO YOU PRESERVE THAT IN THE FACE OF TODAY’S WATCHMAKING TRENDS? As an independent company in the hands of the founding families, the preservation of our heritage and history is woven into everything that we do. From an experiential and story-telling perspective, we have our newly opened Musée Atelier Audemars Piguet in Le Brassus as well as publications, traveling exhibitions, and events. From the product perspective, our handfinishing techniques and our commitment to creating new and innovative complications connect us directly to the pursuits and goals of our founders, Jules Louis Audemars and Edward Auguste Piguet. Audemars Piguet is always moving forward because our roots run deep and we keep them nourished by learning from the past and contributing towards the future.

WITH THE [RE]MASTER01, WHAT MADE YOU LOOK AT REWORKING A VINTAGE PIECE TO BEGIN WITH, AND WHY THAT PIECE SPECIFICALLY?

The upcoming Musée Atelier Audemars Piguet created the perfect opportunity for us to bridge the watchmakers of the past to those creating our watches today. We selected this chronograph as the design and materials are unusual, the dial is highly creative, and most importantly, this watch contains

stories within that are unique to Audemars Piguet. For example, the 4/5 indication on the 30-minute chronograph register was so Jacques Louis Audemars would be able to accurately measure half-time of soccer matches, his favourite sport.

WHAT WOULD YOU SAY HAS BEEN THE PIVOTAL MODEL FOR AUDEMARS PIGUET? For me, the pivotal complications for Audemars Piguet throughout our history and into the present day are our perpetual calendars and our minute repeaters. Astronomical watches and chiming watches are at the epicentre and they continue to drive us forward.

WHAT DO YOU BELIEVE IS THE MOST PROMINENT QUALITY BEHIND ATTRACTION TO AUDEMARS PIGUET WATCHES? Our hand-finishing techniques create a play of light on our cases and bracelets, giving life to our watches in a very distinct way. To achieve this, we often create watches with complex or multiple geometries so the contrast of our satin-finishing against our mirror-polishing can be accentuated even further. These historically rooted techniques, along with our approach to design and our continued development of complications, help to create meaningful connections with clients throughout the world.

UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL

066

03 03 [Re]master01 is equipped with the Manufacture’s newest generation of selfwinding chronograph mechanisms 04 The logo “Audemars Piguet & Co Genève” pays tribute to the Manufacture’s global distribution network

HOW MUCH WORK GOES INTO THE COMPLICATIONS OF AN AUDEMARS PIGUET WATCH? Our highly complicated movements often take several years to develop and require the expertise of many individuals and teams. It is both a technical and creative endeavour in every respect. Successful calibres may lead a long life, so it is essential to get the fundamentals right so it can be further interpreted and developed.

HOW WOULD YOU COMPARE HOROLOGY TODAY WITH THE PREVIOUS DECADES? WHAT WERE THE MOST SIGNIFICANT CHANGES? The first watches naturally evolved from the miniaturisation of the clock approximately 525 years ago. For most of that history, watchmakers relied on pencils and paper for the complex geometry, equations, and metallurgical considerations that are required for complicated watchmaking. This all changed in the 1980s as computers became more powerful and central to the development process. Computer assisted design and computer numerical control fundamentally changed the field of horology, creating new possibilities and new paths forward.

04 05

June 2020

“The first watches naturally evolved

from the miniaturisation of the clock approximately 525 years ago.”

WHAT HAS BEEN THE MOST CHALLENGING PROJECT OF YOUR CAREER? The biggest ongoing challenge I have undertaken in my career is to make sure that I am representing the work of watchmakers, case makers, dial makers, artisans, technicians, and designers as best as possible. The more that people understand and appreciate the human talent behind high-end and complicated watches, the deeper the bonds and connections are made.

WHO HAS HAD THE BIGGEST IMPACT ON YOUR CAREER AND PERSPECTIVE IN THIS INDUSTRY? Many individuals have had a profound impact on my career in this industry, going back to the mid1990s, but in terms of the ‘biggest impact’ – two immediately come to mind. Robert Cheney, currently the Executive Director of Willard House & Clock Museum, is a horological scholar and clockmaker who taught me a tremendous amount about restoration as well as the cultural history of horology. The other is François Bennahmias, whom I first met 20 years ago – his impact on my career and perspective has been profound in every respect.

CREATIVELY SPEAKING, WHERE DO YOU SEE AUDEMARS PIGUET VENTURING IN THE FUTURE?

05 The two-tone steel and pink gold case enhanced with a champagne dial evokes the design of the original 1943 timepiece 06 The light brown hand-stitched calfskin strap adds an elegant touch. The watch also comes with an additional dark brown alligator strap

One of the many benefits of being an independent company in the hands of the founding families is that we can push the envelope both creatively and technically for select projects. The kinds of questions we are asking ourselves are: How can we further explore the ‘play of light’ that is synonymous with the watches that we create? How can we continue to re-imagine classic complications through a contemporary approach? How can our client experiences and relationships evolve further? We are working hard on these kinds of creative questions and many more in the years to come. audemarspiguet.com

WATCHES

068

June 2020

“This robust, functional watch

offered a unique design, paving the way for 50 years of chronographs.”

In 1970, Tudor launched its first chronograph, the Oysterdate. This robust, functional watch offered a unique design, paving the way for 50 years of chronographs. Powered by a robust mechanical Valjoux 7734 calibre with manual winding and cam chronograph mechanism, it immediately became associated with mechanical sports watches. Three variations of these watches were created, the Reference 7031, Reference 7032, and Reference 7033, each of which was distinguished by its bezel type. Reference 7031 featured a bezel topped by a Plexiglas disc whereas Reference 7032 had a satin-brushed steel bezel. Reference 7033 had a bidirectional rotating bezel with a 12unit graduated black disc in anodised aluminium, although it never went beyond its prototype stage.

The second generation of Tudor chronographs was launched in 1971 and featured in the brand’s catalogue until 1977. Dubbed the Tudor “MonteCarlo” among enthusiasts thanks to their roulette wheel-style dials, the 7100 series chronographs retained the same case as their predecessors as well as the spirit of their dial, however, the movement changed to the manually wound Valjoux 234. A new colour combination was introduced in this series, Tudor’s signature blue, with a blue and grey dial and two types of matching blue bezel. This new series consisted of three chronographs. Reference 7149/0, with its Plexiglas bezel and tachymetric scale graduated up to 500 units per hour, replaced reference 7031/0 in the catalogue. Reference 7159/0, with its satin-brushed steel

bezel and engraved tachymetric scale, replaced reference 7032/0; while reference 7169/0 became the now mass-produced incarnation of the 7033/0 prototype with a rotating bezel. In 1976, Tudor released Series 9400, the first chronographs equipped with self-winding movements. The watch was made thicker to accommodate its new rotor, earning these new models the nickname of “Big Block” in collectors’ circles. This name endured all the way through 1989, when the Series 79100 was released with only minimal modifications from the Series 9400. Like previous generations, the Series 9400 and the Series 79100 consisted of three models, distinguished by bezel type. In 1995, Tudor introduced the 79200 Series, updating the aesthetics of previous Oysterdate

Making a Milestone This year, Tudor celebrates five decades since the launch of its first chronograph, a complication that still features prominently in its collections.

01 Tudor’s Heritage Chrono 02 The 7000 Series models came in a unique bright orange cylindrical case 03 Tudor’s 1971 Chronograph

WATCHES

070

watches. The case was designed to be rounded and refined, a contrast to the previous styles which were sharper and more imposing. Although its silhouette remained similar to previous generations, the lines were composed of softer, more rounded configurations. In 2010, to mark the 40th anniversary of the first Tudor chronograph, the brand launched the Heritage Chrono. This watch featured a modern design while adopting the main aesthetic elements of the famous reference, blending them with numerous unique details. Two different dials, inspired by the options available in 1970, were offered with this new model: grey with black subcounters or black with grey sub-counters. While the pentagonal hour markers or “Homeplates” were originally painted, the 2010 version had affixed hour markers in the same shape, a refined touch that created increased depth in the dial display. As an additional detail, Tudor offered a black, grey or orange Jacquard fabric strap with this model, a first for the time. In 2013, Tudor launched a blue-accented Heritage Chrono, which featured a dial inspired by the “Monte Carlo” design. The movement behind these models was a calibre 2892 with additional

05 04 Tudor’s Big Block Chronograph 05 Ad for the first Tudor Chronograph 06 The Black Bay Chronograph 04

07 The Fastrider Black Shield

June 2020

chronograph mechanism, adopting the principle of the minute counter with 45-minute graduations and the date at 6 o’clock. Alongside the updated Heritage Chrono Blue, Tudor released the Fastrider Black Shield in 2013. This watch was a sporty matte black chronograph that broke away from traditional Tudor designs. Its production was the result of high-level technical expertise, with a high-tech ceramic case that reflected both technical prowess and performance. In 2017, Tudor launched the award-winning Black Bay Chrono, which earned the title “best watch under 8,000 Swiss francs” at the Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève. A quintessential diver’s watch, the Black Bay Chrono boldly combined the aquatic heritage of the Black Bay family while incorporating the timekeeping function Tudor is most famous for. Boasting a 70-hour power reserve and silicon balance spring, and officially certified by the Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute, the Manufacture calibre chronograph MT5813 behind the Heritage Black Bay Chrono was a high-performance movement, designed in the purest watchmaking tradition, with column wheel mechanism and vertical clutch. tudorwatch.com

WATCHES

072

Unexpected Encounters Cartier’s watchmaking novelties are reunited by a global theme in 2020, highlighting the Maison’s creative approach. Cartier is renowned for a distinctive style that combines shapes and ideas that were never intended to meet. Building on this concept, the Maison is revisiting models from its heritage in 2020 under the theme ‘Unexpected Encounters’. A new interpretation of Cartier’s iconic Pasha model is featured in the collection. With its extrovert character, graphic signature, and celebrated square in a circle design, it pushes the boundaries of traditional watchmaking frameworks. Shape and function combine in the Maillon, an elegant and feminine watch that blurs the line between horology and jewellery. With its rectangular links, a hexagonal dial, and bevelled brancards, the design incites Cartier’s rhythmic geometry.

June 2020

“Shape and function combine in the

Maillon, an elegant and feminine watch that blurs the line between horology and jewellery.”

Meanwhile, the Cartier Privé Tank Asymétrique expands the rectangle of the original Tank and moves the dial’s numerals right by 30 degrees, creating a truly distinct timepiece. The Santos-Dumont was the first modern men’s wristwatch created in 1904 by Louis Cartier. It made its mark both with a pure design incorporating a square bezel with visible screws. The model has been entirely reworked yet remains instantly recognisable. cartier.com

WATCHES

074

A Rare Talent The latest talent to join Vacheron Constantin’s “One of Not Many” communications campaign, Yiqinq Yin is a youthful prodigy in the world of Haute Couture. She epitomizes the Égérie collection, dedicated to women and launched by the Manufacture in February 2020.

Born in Beijing in 1985, Yiqing Yin has been traveling the world since her childhood. At the age of four, she left China for Australia and France. A graduate of the École Nationale Supérieure des Arts Décoratifs in Paris, and armed with her innovative vision of Couture, Yiqing Yin sees garments as both a second skin and a supple, floaty envelope. Exploring the dynamic potential of pleats, she imagines vibrant structures that are never static but instead all about volumes in motion, and experiments with the way garments fall in a quest for smoothly flowing lines. She thus designs loose shapes with staggering structures. She admits her attraction to “an intuitive method of creation, a sensory wandering and a search for voluntary accidents”. Acknowledged and respected within the select circle of Haute Couture connoisseurs, her universe naturally chimed with that of Vacheron Constantin. Yiqing Yin shares with the watchmakers and artisans of the Maison a concern for detail and a desire for discovery. Ties were thus woven between Haute Couture and Haute Horlogerie, two worlds where craftsmanship, expertise and rarity would be nothing

June 2020

01 Yiqing Yin Joins Vacheron Constantin’s “One of Not Many” campaign 02, 03 Yiqing Yin will be the face of the self-winding Egerie collection launched earlier this year

without passion and creativity, a vocation that is constantly being challenged and reinvented in step with successive creations. The Égérie collection symbolises this encounter through the pleated dial and the off-centre aesthetic of its design. The “One of Not Many” campaign presented in 2018 showcases talents whose personality and work express the constant quest for excellence, openness to the world and the spirit of innovation and creation characterising Vacheron Constantin. Singular, visionary and passionate, they are recognised experts in their own field, thereby also reflecting the concept of connoisseurs. vacheron-constantin.com

TRAVEL

076

Horology CAPITAL

There is no other city in the world that has lived the story of crafting and innovating timepieces as Geneva. With over 400 years of horology experience, the Swiss city is a hub for watch lovers.

Whether you want to learn the secrets of watchmaking, own a masterpiece, or to have a tour in a place where time is given in a thousand and one ways, Geneva blends tales of time and travel. Thanks to its impressive tradition in watchmaking, it is no surprise that Geneva hosts events which set the industry trends year after year. The Salon International de la Haute Horlogerie (SIHH) was held for the first time in Geneva in 1991 and has long been known as one of the biggest and most important trade shows in the luxury watch industry. To mark its 30th edition next year, it will be renamed Watches & Wonders Geneva. Another annual watchmaking event is the Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève (GPHG), which celebrates the excellence of worldwide horological production and recognises the finest creations and the most important operators in the watchmaking sector. The GPHG prizegiving ceremony held in November of each year at Grand Théâtre de Genève draws elite representatives of the international watchmaking profession. Watchmaking is in Geneva’s DNA, and the reflections can be seen clearly in every corner. Starting from the city’s symbol; the Jet d’Eau fountain in the Geneva Lake, one of the tallest in the world, which traces its origins to the watchmaking industry. The impressive attraction was created by accident in 1886 when a hydraulic factory, delivering

June 2020

01 L’horloge fleurie, or the flower clock, features around 6,500 flowering plants and shrubs 02, 03 Lake Geneva, one of the largest lakes in Western Europe

TRAVEL

078

04 05

June 2020

04 The historic St. Pierre Cathedral 05 The Patek Philippe Museum in Geneva, one of the world’s foremost horology museums

06 Place du Bourg-de-Four, a city square and commercial center in the Old Town of Geneva. 07, 08 Watches & Wonders Geneva, one of world’s major shows for luxury watches

07 08

water from the Rhône to the city’s craftsmen and watchmakers, installed a safety valve designed to relieve excess pressure by letting water escape. The water rising from the released pressure marked the start of the Jet d’Eau and today it attracts thousands of visitors every day. Another popular landmark in Geneva in connection to horology is the impressive Patek Philippe Museum, located in the heart of the Plainpalais district. The museum is home to the most prestigious creations of the brand’s master watchmakers, an extraordinary collection of watches, musical automata and enamel miniatures from the 16th to the 19th centuries. Tourists can pay a visit to the museum to discover over 500 years of watchmaking history and to wander around the masterpieces while listening to the story behind each of them.

Watchmaking enthusiasts can opt for a private tour to immerse themselves in the rich history of this industry. The entire timeline is present in just a few streets in Geneva from the famous Flower Clock to less well-known but equally symbolic sites. The tour also offers plentiful window shopping along the famous Rue du Rhône, with its countless boutiques showcasing the world’s greatest watchmakers. Another once-in-a-lifetime experience is joining a watchmaking workshop at Initium to discover the fascinating world of mechanical timepieces. Lessons in theory and practice from a master watchmaker help visitors pierce the mysteries of a mechanical movement. Screwdriver and tweezers in hand, geared with the knowledge from the workshop, participants will experience the unique thrill of seeing the beating heart of the watch they assembled come to life.

MASTERPIECE

080

June 2020

Small Art,

BIG MESSAGE Syrian-American artist and architect, Mohamad Hafez discusses the inspiration behind his work, the importance of authenticity, and the contrast between turmoil and hope in his miniature Middle Eastern streetscapes.

WHAT MADE YOU DECIDE ON MINIATURES FOR YOUR ART? IS IT AESTHETIC OR PART OF THE NARRATIVE? I did not go to art school; my training is in architecture and that plays big role in the way that I create my art. Like any architect, I am obsessed with details and the quality of my work and using miniatures gives me a scale that I can control and perfect alone. In the future, if I can get more help, I would like to increase the scale a little bit. However, using this method has allowed me to fully detail every nook and corner of my work.

THE DEPICTIONS OF DECREPIT BUILDINGS AND WAR-TORN AREAS IN YOUR WORK ARE VIEWED BY SOME AS A MESSAGE OF HOPELESSNESS AND DESPAIR. HOW WOULD YOU RESPOND TO THEM? I believe that artists have a responsibility to document the times they live in and this is what I’m trying to do with my work. Yes, my pieces do have the aesthetic of destruction and war because of the times we are living in. However, I don’t believe

in pessimistic messages and the work is infused with verses from the Quran that uplift the viewer and add a sense of hopefulness. Even during the darkest of times, patience is necessary for the blossoming of life and, eventually, justice will prevail. I always try to remind the audience that there is a brighter future ahead.

WHAT FORMS OF ART INFLUENCED YOU IN YOUR EARLY YEARS? Architecture is a form of art that has always inspired me because it can tell the stories of the cultures that have lived in it. When we live in a house or apartment for a few years and then move out, we leave nail marks and screws where our pictures hung and scuff marks where the couch was leaning against the wall. What does a civilization leave behind when they live in one place for a thousand years? Growing up in old Damascus I used to walk the streets where there are archeological elements from biblical, Roman, and Greek times all side by side. It shows the footprint of civilisations that have come and

01, 02 Some of Mohammed Hafez’ creations

MASTERPIECE

082

03 Mohammed Hafez 04, 05, 06, 07 Special attention is paid to all meticulous details

gone. So, one way to educate the West and my audience about the richness of our culture and the Arab world is to say ‘don’t look at the dark moment we are living in, look at our architecture and cities’. Ignorant and violent people do not build structures like Al Hamra and the churches around Lebanon and Syria.

WHAT MESSAGE DO YOU WANT PEOPLE TO TAKE AWAY FROM YOUR WORK? A lot of my work is educational and talks about refugees and their lives. It aims to humanize immigrants. I want the viewer to understand that although people are different, there are many things we have in common, things that bring us together. At the end of the day, immigrants, refugees, and the Muslim world are seeking the same thing as everyone else, to build a good life and a future for their families. It is the responsibility of any artist or creative person from an Arab background living in the West to give back to their culture and educate their friends about this richness. This perspective is usually very new to many people, particularly when they look at some of my work and see a church right next to a mosque or a synagogue. This diversity has existed in our culture for hundreds of years, and if the Arab culture is truly violent as some people say, there would not be a single church or

Roman structure intact in Lebanon or Damascus. My work is aimed at bringing people together during divided times. If there is anything that people have learned from this pandemic, it is that we are all share the same hopes and dreams and earth is home for everyone.

DO THE CREATED STREETS AND BUILDINGS IN YOUR WORK MIRROR REAL LIFE PLACES? No. However, if you look at photos of my studio on my website, you will see the walls are plastered with lots of pictures from the region, especially Syria. Before working on my art, I charge my memory with photos of architecture from different countries in the Arab world. It reminds me of what I’m used to and then I start carving and sculpting each piece. The reason being, in my day job, I work with a firm that designs skyscrapers around the world. There is an abundance of detailing, planning, and drawing that goes into this process. I want to break free from replicating and planning in my art, it’s about having fun and all of my work is built on the spot.

WHAT ARE THE SIZES OF YOUR CREATIONS? It depends on each piece, I have some that are 12x12 inches, others are 30x30 cm and some can reach up to 16 feet. It can take anywhere from four

June 2020

“Architecture is a form of art that has always inspired me because it can tell the stories of the cultures that have lived in it.”

MASTERPIECE

084

08, 09 Incorporated photos represent architecture from different countries in the Arab world

or five months to year and half to finish a piece. I never work on one design at a time, I work on several at once to keep my memory fresh and jump from one piece to another. This allows me to forget the amount of detail that goes into each design and come back to it with a fresh perspective.

DO YOU HAVE A FAVOURITE MINIATURE? I couldn’t pick a single piece. I have favourite moments. Each piece has a favourite corner because when you build these on the spot over many months, they start developing their own character. I use materials that age with time and they are engineered to do. That means that these pieces will continue to grow like real pieces of architecture. So, in a sense, I don’t claim total ownership of these pieces because they develop their own charisma with age. My favourite works are the ones that people see pictures of and assume they are looking real buildings.

WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST MINIATURE PIECE? I got stuck in the US for 10 years because my student visa was single entry and I couldn’t go home. This was in 2003 and Damascus was beautiful back then. My family was there and I felt homesick being away from them. One night, I decided to stop complaining and focus on something positive, so I collected some crap materials that we used in class for model making and put them together. I built a façade of an old house and it took me hours. I got really involved in the detail and lost track of time, that was the first time I realised that art can be therapeutic. So, I started making more and more. I did this in secret until after the war, then I found the confidence to showcase my work and tell a different story about our region and its rich culture. mohamadhafez.com

June 2020

Montenegro Your personal safe haven this summer

T. + 382 32 660 660 | E. reservations.pm@regenthotels.com | W. www.regenthotels.com/regent-portomontenegro

UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL

086

June 2020

SCENT of success 01 Amouage Chief Experience Officer, Renaud Salmon

Redefining its position in the high-end fragrance industry, Amouage is undertaking a transformation that will re-write the book on perfume creation and its relationships with the next generation. Key to this has been the appointment of Marco Parsiegla as Chief Executive Officer, and now, the debut of a new role to its leadership team, the Chief Experience Officer (CXO). Taking up this post is Renaud Salmon, who has worked with some of the most well-known global luxury houses like Delvaux, Louis Vuitton, Dolce&Gabbana, Alexander McQueen, and Marc Jacobs. His new role positions him at the helm of what will be known as the “Amouage Creative Collective”, a team of creative experts who will lead the brand on its journey to a reimagined future. Enlisting artists from perfumers and photographers to videographers and designers, the “Amouage Creative Collective” is a new approach to fragrance creation, transcending the constraints of a single creative director. A mix of established names and emerging figures, the team will unify the strategic and creative ambitions of the house and be the voice of the brand. The idea is to re-imagine the way fragrances are crafted, communicated, purchased, and, ultimately, enjoyed.

With the appointment of industry veteran Renaud Salmon as its Chief Experience Officer, Amouage is preparing for a new creative era and a reimagined future.

“Amouage became one of the world’s most sought-after luxury fragrance brands thanks to its utmost attention to craftsmanship and absolute commitment to the highest quality standards. Now, as the global beauty market changes, we are taking the opportunity to reinvent the way we connect with our customers every day,” said Parsiegla. “We look forward to seeing Renaud drive the continued development of Amouage’s world-class perfumes, with his vast expertise and innovative approach.” Belgium-born Renaud Salmon started his career as an intern at luxury goods house Delvaux and has since worked his way through many of the world’s leading luxury brands. With a business background alongside training in fragrances and photography, he quickly became the trusted right-hand of worldclass fashion designers, creating coherent fragrance universes. He brings new energy to Amouage and will be responsible for every aspect of the brand’s consumer touchpoints, including product creation, brand image, communication, and merchandising. A special focus will be on the digital and social elements to reach the next generation of Amouage consumers around the globe.

“It is an honour for me to join Amouage, especially at this pivotal moment in its history. For nearly 40 years, people have been passionate about the house, its products of exceptional quality, and its commitment to creative freedom,” said Salmon. “As the fragrance world has become more crowded, we will reinforce the duality that makes Amouage unique: a brand born in Oman with the dream to restore the great art of perfumery in the region, infused with cutting-edge international creativity. Today, we are embarking on a journey to enrich the essence of Amouage, with a Creative Collective of artists from different generations, cultures, genders, and skills. I look forward to witnessing how these creators, together, will forge the Amouage of tomorrow.” Amouage has garnered a global reputation for bringing true artistry to all its creations and has become an icon in the fragrance world. The brand’s products are available in more than 70 countries and over 1,000 selected retail outlets in Italy, the United Kingdom, Malaysia, Oman, the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Qatar. amouage.com

“Amouage became one of

the world’s most sought-after luxury fragrance brands thanks to its utmost attention to craftsmanship and absolute commitment to the highest quality standards. ”

FRAGRANCES - MEN

088

Fresh and bold

An eclectic mix of stimulating fragrances and intoxicating aromas guaranteed to make a statement. For men.

Bvlgari Le Gemme Le Gemme, Bvlgari’s High Perfumery Collection, represents a sensory journey from West to East. This journey reaches a pinnacle with the introduction of the first-ever Men’s and Women’s fragrance collector’s duo – an exceptional collaboration between two master perfumers, Jacques Cavallier and Alberto Morillas. With the introduction of Bvlgari Le Gemme Erea and Bvlgari Le Gemme Kobraa, the brand once again mines the natural world in search of its most captivating treasures to translate the bold beauty of Green Agate and Snake Jasper into new fragrances. bvlgari.com

Givenchy Beauty This range features eight gender-neutral fragrances, each built around an unusual pairing of ingredients, which interact and contrast in an unexpected way to create unique olfactory identities. Each original composition leaves a distinctive trail with a Couture spirit, which is glorified by a ninth fragrance: Accord Particulier de Givenchy, a signature scent designed to intensify the personalities of the other fragrances. givenchy.com

June 2020

Moschino Toy Boy Toy Boy by Moschino reinterprets elegance with a touch of irony. It speaks to unique, dynamic, enthusiastic, and passionate men that are unafraid to reveal their more tender and playful side. Toy Boy is an exciting play of endless codes seeking out re-evaluation and liberation. It comes in a black glass bottle with a lacquered, glossy effect, and a luxurious silver finish. An ambitious bottle with a captivating design, with one eye on becoming the musthave of the upcoming autumn/winter season and the other on awakening the tender and playful side of its man. The fragrance is made from premium-quality innovative ingredients and delicious notes that reflect the seductive and playful brown teddy bear, whose embrace leaves no room for escape. moschino.com moschino.com

Valentino Born in Roma Born in Roma is a fragrance collection for a whole generation of people who embrace diversity. Donna Born in Roma is a modern haute couture floriental fragrance, made with three qualities of jasmine that bring a luxurious femininity. It is then blended with vanilla bourbon, the most expensive extract in the world. The notes are twisted with a radiant trio of modern wood, which gives an edgy touch to the scent that is reminiscent of Roman street culture. The bottle is designed with the iconic Valentino stud, which was inspired by Roman architecture and is the symbol of Valentino couture. valentino.com

Yves Saint Laurent L’Homme Yves Saint Laurent L’Homme is a rich blend of precious ambery woods and full-bodied cedar. The new fragrance joins the best-selling range launched in 2006 with the epochal La Homme Eau De Toilette, a contemporary vision of the 21st-century man in all his facets, matching edgy metallic notes with tender violet leaf and sensual tonka bean with the strength of wood. This new woody signature expresses the elegance and refinement of a daytime fragrance. The scent opens with a flash of metal and ozone – the electrifying air of the city before a storm. A twist of Italian lemon primofiore, the most fragrant quality of the citrus, adds its tang to the scent. ysl.com

FRAGRANCES - UNISEX

Sophisticated Scents A scintillating selection of unisex fragrances that captivate the senses and make a lasting impression.

090

Guerlain Patchouli Ardent First launched in 2014 with Santal Royal, Les Absolus D’Orient’s homage to the olfactory treasures of the East continues with a new voyage of discovery inspired by patchouli, one of perfume’s most beautiful and evocative raw materials. Composed by Guerlain’s perfumer Thierry Wasser, Patchouli Ardent offers an exceptional take on patchouli, one that goes against all its traditional associations with dark woody tones. Patchouli radiates from the heart of the fragrance to showcase its brightest facets. A woody, floral perfume, this scent’s complexity reveals itself over several hours, settling its blazing notes of spicy pink pepper, intense black pepper, and a soft and subtle note of fig onto the skin. At the heart of the scent are patchouli and rose. Meanwhile, deep woody accents stretch into a leather-musk accord that makes for a bold yet majestic fragrance. guerlain.com

Penhaligon’s Halfeti Leather This distinctive fragrance is named for the stunning black roses that grow on the banks of the Euphrates river in the small Turkish village of Halfeti. Dark and mysterious, the roses are exceedingly rare because of the unique environmental conditions in which they are grown. The fragrance, created by perfumer Christian Provenzano, opens with fresh notes of bergamot and artemisia, enhanced with scents of jasmine and spicy rose, before revealing warm base notes of vanilla, sandalwood, leather, oud, amber, and patchouli. It is presented in a deep black bottle with a delicate red and gold label, which is decorated with a red bow. penhaligons.com

June 2020

Lancôme Peut-Être In honour of its 85th anniversary, Lancôme is re-launching Peut-Être, an iconic fragrance from its past. Composed in 1937 by Armand Petitjean, the House’s founding perfumer, the fragrance’s history and trail embody the expertise and excellence of a brand that has always found inspiration in the spirit of the times. Inspired by the original, the new scent follows the same seductive and slightly provocative approach. The Damascena rose essence unveils a fresh floral scent and is enhanced by a touch of Jasmine. Warmed by the soft, powdery scent of musk and the amber notes of benzoin, the queen of flowers exudes a textured fragrance. lancome.com

Yves Saint Laurent Le Vestiaire Atlas Garden A major part of Yves Saint Laurent’s world, Morocco was not only a retreat for the legendary designer, but also an inexhaustible source of inspiration for his creations. A Moroccan Eden, symbolising light, vibrant colours and unique scents, has now become the point of departure for the luxury brand’s latest fragrance, Atlas Garden. Created by Amandine Marie, the fragrance turns a spotlight on two facets of orange blossom: at its heart, there is a feisty neroli, which is mingled with an orange blossom absolute with more sensual notes. This combination sets the scene for notes of honeyed Deglet Nour date, almonds, tonka bean absolute, and ambrox. www.ysl.com

Roberto Cavalli Gold Collection Roberto Cavalli’s annual Gold Collection is a landmark in the world of perfumery. Designed by talented master perfumers, each fragrance is a tasteful exploration of a classic scent emphasised through carefully selected counterpoints and sublimated by the most advanced distillation techniques. This year, two new perfumes join this fragrant collection. Exquisite Nectar is a unique accord inspired by Sidr honey, one of the most flavourful and precious types of honey in the world. Facetted with a bouquet of jasmine and orange flowers, it is refreshed by top notes of neroli that allude to Cavalli’s Italian heritage. A dry-down of amber and noble woods adds depth and power to the radiant nectar. Meanwhile, Sublime Tonka opens with a blend of balsamic elemi oil and cinnamon from Madagascar. This overture gives way to a complex and textured composition of clary sage, tobacco, and frankincense that combines aromatic amber and oriental overtones. This is a prelude to the deep, warm, and generous root note of Tonka beans that gives the fragrance its name. robertocavalli.com

FRAGRANCES - WOMEN

Alluring Fragrances An eclectic mix of stimulating fragrances and intoxicating aromas guaranteed to make a statement. For women.

092

Yves Saint Laurent Black Opium Shine On The Black Opium woman embodies the Yves Saint Laurent spirit as she seeks out the spotlight, always attracting the energy of the crowd. The new Black Opium Shine On Limited Edition Bottle is adorned with captivating silvery glitter dots on a glossy black bottle. Instantly glamorous, the iconic Black Opium bottle is anchored in couture style, fully embellished for the starriest of nights out. Inside the bottle, the original eau de parfum remains unchanged: the electrifying energy of black coffee meets the assertive femininity of white flowers and vanilla. The scent is a vibrant, sensual, and addictive contrast of dark and light, like a force field around you wherever you go. ysl.com

Bvlgari Le Gemme Bvlgari’s high perfumery collection, Le Gemme, presents a stunning sensory journey from West to East. This journey reaches a pinnacle with the introduction of the first-ever men’s and women’s fragrance collector’s duo – a collaboration between master perfumers Jacques Cavallier and Alberto Morillas. bvlgari.com

June 2020

Cartier La Panthère The La Panthère Eau de Parfum is a marriage of pure, mesmerising gardenia and sensual notes of musk and chypre you didn’t know you needed. Created in March 2014, the fragrance draws inspiration from the panther which is a symbol of the brand and heritage of the house. Boasting a sensual and bold floral scent, this creation from perfumer Mathilde Laurent highlights the central notes of gardenia and animalistic musk. To celebrate the iconic fragrance’s fifth birthday, the French luxury house launched a limited edition La Panthère Eau de Parfum. cartier.com

Chloé Nomade Absolu Created by perfumer Quentin Bisch, Nomade Absolu is a modern fragrance of independence, elegance, and adventure. The more intense version of the original exudes sophistication and a bright, attractive fruity character. An audacious reference to a male fragrance’s universe, the oakmoss remains at the vibrant heart of this scent, but reveals an unexpected refinement. The sumptuous texture of a sweet, Mirabelle plum brings a juicy dimension to the scent and a sensuousness enhanced by the fruity, aromatic inflections of velvety davana. The scent is warmed by the creamy, woody richness of soft sandalwood, a unique, radiant, luscious fragrance. chloe.com

Dolce Shine Eau de Parfum Cheerful and irresistibly fresh, this new fruity floral scent bursts with character. Juicy mango and bright jasmine combine with sundrenched blond woods to create a new sunny fruity floral fragrance. The scent is inspired by the moment between winter and spring when the first rays of sunlight trickle into the gardens of the Amalfi Coast. The heart of the scent blooms with a swirl of airy jasmine and solar orange blossom. Like a soft breeze, the unexpected salty accord brings the rich floral absolutes to life, lightly touching the petals with fresh dew. The radiance of the scent persists in the creamy drydown, a supple accord of sundrenched blond woods, smoky Australian sandalwood, and silky white musk. For this colourful new addition to the Dolce collection, the bottle and cap take on a soft, sunny yellow, and, as always, a black grosgrain bow adorns the collar. dolcegabbana.com

SPECIAL FEATURE

094

June 2020

Nature and Fashion Collide Rising international artist Roman Feral has captured the attention of the contemporary art scene with his innovative creations, which blend nature and fashion most unexpectedly.

Roman Feral has always had a passion for the blend of luxury and nature. The juxtaposition serves as the foundation of his distinctive art collection, which combines iconic luxury brands with natural butterflies that appear in flight through a unique technique. Born in Paris, France, Feral’s artistic nature was evident from a young age, and he was quickly discovered for his creativity, talent, and dexterity. Over the years, he has gained recognition for his innovative works on brands such as Louis Vuitton, Goyard, Chanel, and Cartier, to name a few. His work draws from the allure of nature and luxury, combining forms of beauty with human design and craftsmanship. It features a range of pieces that bring a new dimension and emotion to fine goods. Small cases, suitcases, and trunks designed by industry icons take on new aesthetics

with butterflies emerging from their openings, each one arranged like a fine jewel in the bottom of the case or perched on an edge in a frozen moment of flight. To create each piece, Feral crafted a new technique which, he says, requires meticulous attention to detail and much precision. The result is a breathtaking illusion that immortalises the butterfly’s beauty. The preserved butterflies are kept in a crystal plexiglass case to ensure they’ll live on as artwork. Feral’s artistry is particularly impressive in his creation of an iconic piece inspired by Louis Vuitton. Cutouts from a 1950s Louis Vuitton piece were used to spell out “LOVE” and then attached to a translucent case with gold corners. Butterflies adorn the letters in a playful configuration, and at the bottom of the LOVE structure, is a patch of imitation grass.

“My art is about creating

emotion and ambiance in a way that we haven’t seen.” 02

Commenting on his work, Feral said: “My art is about creating emotion and ambiance in a way that we haven’t seen. Art has the power to create emotional connections and drive consumer consumption. Art and brands are like Yin and Yang and the gray zone between the two fascinates Me. My art is inspired by the gray zone between nature’s beauty and luxury brands.” Feral is an intensifying talent with even more incredible creations on the horizon. His vision and imagination are unmatched in the field, and, although he is a man of few words, the pieces he’s shared so far signal more exciting works to come. Feral’s has already sold more than $1 million worth of work this year and his pieces are available throughout the world for between $7,000$85,000 each. roman-feral.com

01 Chanel Pure III, 2020 02 Chanel Dior, 2020 03 Grand Coffre LV III, 2020 04 Louis Vuitton chest by Roman Feral

UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL

096

Handcrafting Excellence For the past 15 years, Nida Azwer has been building a stellar reputation in the fashion industry. Drawing inspiration from Pakistani artisans, her work is both an homage to her culture and an expression of refined taste. Durrah talks to the award-winning designer about her brand philosophy and future ambitions for the atelier.

YOUR PASSION TO DETAIL AND CRAFTSMANSHIP IS OBVIOUS IN YOUR WORK. CAN YOU DESCRIBE YOUR CREATIVE APPROACH? Our brand philosophy is revival and sustaining of craft and embroideries. We love making pieces for our clients that they can wear for years to come or add them to their collection of heirloom pieces. Each one of our pieces sings a beautiful story through design of choosing motifs and patterns from our rich cultural heritage. They are special because they resurrect and celebrate techniques of fine stitches and embroideries that have been long forgotten. We aim to revive crafts likes Resham work, mirror work, kachi maroori, and fine zardozi work which is rarely found in today’s garments in its finest form. These techniques are an essential part of our work.

WHAT DO YOU LOOK FOR IN TRADITIONAL PAKISTANI APPAREL? WHAT QUALITIES MUST IT HAVE FOR YOU TO FEEL THAT IT’S AUTHENTIC? We look at the fabrics, cuts, and embroideries. Some of our embroidery techniques are very specific to Pakistan and the subcontinent. Our loose tunics with slim fit pants, traditionally called

“kurta and khara Panama” is a typical Pakistani cut. Our kalidar’s, angharka sand Peshwas can be traced back to the Mughal era. Fine intricate hand embroidery using pure hand-spun silk thread and coiled metal wire, often known as dabka naqsi, is typically used in our finer garments.

THE CURRENT WORLDWIDE CIRCUMSTANCES MADE DIGITAL SALES A NECESSITY. HOW ACTIVE IS NIDA AZWER ATELIER’S ONLINE OPERATIONS? These days, it’s the most active way forward. Because of the nature of our business, and the current limitations facing the industry and the rest of the world, we conduct personalized oneon-one appointments over video calls to get a complete understanding of what projects entail. These are proving to be extremely popular with some of our clients.

ARE THERE ANY PAKISTANI ARTISANS OR BRANDS THAT INFLUENCED YOUR STYLE? I love fine embroideries. My family has some beautiful antique embroideries. Growing up, I have seen them worn by my mom, aunts, and cousins. This is what spurred my love and passion for textiles. I have been falling in love with these beautiful pieces ever since I was a child.

June 2020

01 Nida Azwer 02 Fashion that celebrates traditional techniques of fine stitches and embroideries

UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL

098

03, 04, 05, 06 Some of the unique offerings from Nida Azwer Atelier

HOW HAVE YOUR COLLECTIONS BEEN RECEIVED IN THE MIDDLE EAST SO FAR? Our long jackets and kalidars are a real favorite among our Middle Eastern clients. They love our intricate embroideries and details on our handcrafted jackets.

AFTER SO MANY YEARS IN THE FASHION INDUSTRY, IS IT STILL A CHALLENGE TO CREATE? One of the most exciting parts of my career is to be able to translate my vision onto fabric and embroideries. There are always many endless things to try and experiment with. There are still so many crafts and embroideries I would like to make. I want to revive the craft.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE A NOVICE DESIGNER? I am lucky enough to do absolutely what I love. I follow my instinct with what I feel is best. Having that faith to do anything with that clear passion and focus will hopefully surprise you with your own potential.

WHAT SHOULD WE EXPECT FROM THE NEXT NIDA AZWER COLLECTION? We’re currently working on this really exciting craft revival project where we mix embroideries from different areas of Pakistan to create a lovely soft pastel color palette collection. Given the current situation, our focus will continue to be on creating a luxury line that’s both basic and easy to wear. nidaazwer.com

June 2020

“One of the most exciting

parts of my career is to be able to translate my vision onto fabric and embroideries.”

05 06

FASHION

100

ARTISANAL HERITAGE A sense of augmented reality sets the tone for the Berluti collection for SpringSummer 2020.

Magnifying established signatures, colours intensify. Informed by the stained surfaces of the old marble tables on which the Berluti craftsmen in the Ferrara manifattura hand-dye the archetypical patina shoe, Artistic Director, Kris Van Assche fluoresces and acidifies his palette. Enhanced hues elevate classic tones: fluo orange and terracotta, bright yellow and mustard, cobalt blue and navy, and intense violet and royal purple meet in exuberant saturation. The sentiment is echoed in technique: the marble and patina stain motif of silk shirts is first woven into a jacquard fabric, then printed with the marble pattern, and finally overprinted with the multi-coloured stains. As the new direction of Berluti is heightened, so is tradition. The patina suit – transmuted from the classic Alessandro shoe – is embossed with the maison’s heritage scritto motif. A largely indecipherable 19th century manuscript sacred to the Berluti archive, its handwritten letters find new life on leather tailoring, evoking the idea of archive pieces that never existed. The scritto reappears in jacquards of suits and shirts, features in the form of shadow writing on pin-striped

tailoring , as a print on sportswear, on bags, and throughout the details of linings and zips. A nailhead surface decoration is introduced in homage to the shoemaking core of Berluti, in the all-over embellishment of a leather suit and a sweatshirt, and on the sole of shoes. The presence of the scritto and nail-heads signifies Kris Van Assche’s ongoing fusion of modernity with the classic values of the maison. The symbiosis reinforces a contemporary masculinity – diverse, independent and adventurous – expressed in increasingly fluid tailoring. The silhouette expands seductively in trousers and shoulders, triggering a sense of freedom characterised by an unrestrained attitude to dress codes. Jackets appear in sleeveless form, Bermuda shorts are introduced, and the motocross trousers of the new Berluti wardrobe convert into a harmonising jacket and multicolour leather boot. An idea of sportswear is further explored in takes on perforation, in woven leather tops and outerwear in laser cut deerskin. berluti.com

June 2020

FASHION

102

Driven to Impress Dunhill’s Spring Summer 2020 celebrates style and substance.

The multifaceted nature of dunhill is the framework for a multifaceted series of ad campaigns for the brand exploring these stories. ‘Automotive’ is the latest instalment for SpringSummer 2020 and looks to the defining discovery for Alfred Dunhill that changed the whole nature of his brand: the automobile. It is with this backdrop –a garage in Berkley Square, Mayfair, with classic cars partially revealed underneath car covers– that the Spring-Summer 2020 collection is presented on a multiplicity of models. In fact, the cars themselves are as much models as the young men wearing dunhill clothes. It is the rigour of design that matters in both cases. Here, Jack Webb photographs a fluid selection of silhouettes, exploring the technical, classical and contemporary nature of dunhill. By encompassing fluid fabrication, relaxed wrapped tailoring, the classicism of British cutting, a Japanese approach to volume, and the casual cogency of sportswear, dunhill is pictured as a house that celebrates and makes sense of a multitude of menswear codes, including those of its peerless leather goods. dunhill.com

June 2020

FASHION

“The multifaceted nature

of dunhill is the framework for a multifaceted series of ad campaigns for the brand exploring these stories.”

104

June 2020

BAGS

106

June 2020

EXQUISITE STYLE Gorgeous designer hand bags to add a touch of class to your look.

360 Bag Purificacion Garcia Bringing together the world of fashion and art, Spanish fashion house Purificacion Garcia has created a new iconic piece, the 360 bag, to be added to the brand’s recognizable leather goods line. With a geometric and organic design, this new model displays minimalist purity while remaining innovative, versatile and playful. This new iconic piece can be found in several colors ranging from neutral tones to a colorful palette, each available with matching shoulder straps. www.purificaciongarcia.com

Le Cube Gigi The Beirut-based brand, innovation of Lebanese designer Soha Atteih, is an expression of simplicity and feminity converging with luxury and rebellion. Le Cube is a cubically constructed bag and short strap crafted in python skin pattern completed with a sliding shoulder chain, available in black and beige patterns. @gigi.galleria

SS20 Collection Valentino Evoking the glitz and glamour of Hollywood, the Valentino SS20 collection combines the well-known silhouettes of its most iconic bags with geometric and Arabesque pattern., The eye-catching crystal embellishments add a dramatic flair, making these bags statement pieces for a night out. www.valentino.com

BAGS

108

June 2020

Serpenti through the eyes of Alexander Wang Bvlgari This small Mon Tresor bucket bag comes with drawstring fastening and metal decorations in the Fendi logo shape. It features two detachable shoulder straps, one long and one short, to wear the bag over the shoulder or cross-body. Made of natural-color leather, it’s finished with embossed FF motif. www.bulgari.com

The Bag Album Brunello Cucinelli To be worn over the shoulder or carried by hand, the versatile and casual Hobo bag follows the rhythms of a fast-paced lifestyle. A soft design and clean, elegant lines enhance the naturally grained surface of the fine polished leather. Silhouettes and trends from the past make a comeback, taking on brand new, sophisticated roles in the brand’s City line. Splendid leathers and shining decorations enhance the surfaces of the new Texture bags. Thanks to its removable straps, the shoulder bag becomes a sophisticated clutch, adding a touch of style whatever the time of day. shop.brunellocucinelli.com

Roseau Collection Longchamp The solar journey from dawn to dusk is the starting point of Longchamp’s Spring/Summer 2020 collection. Combining simple and sophisticated style, Longchamp has totally revamped its iconic Roseau line. Understated and not over-embellished, the models are adorned with the Brand’s iconic bamboo claps. The maxi shapes add a modern and offbeat touch to all your Spring looks. www.longchamp.com

SPECIAL FEATURE

110

June 2020

WATCHMAKING SAVOIR-FAIRE Recognized as an Official TUDOR Watch Retailer in Bahrain, Modern Art Studio carries only genuine TUDOR timepieces, complemented by access to the worldwide network of TUDOR trained watchmakers.

01 Modern Art Studio’s Tudor Boutique

Modern Art Studio in Bahrain opened the first Tudor Boutique in the Gulf in 2014, bringing new levels of luxury and sophistication to the region. Located in Manama, the boutique offers a wide range of models, including the Black Bay, Pelagos, and Style. Born from the will to go beyond the standards, Tudor’s watchmaking philosophy draws its inspiration from its heritage, while incorporating state-of-the-art technology, exclusive innovations, and pioneering creativity. The origins of Tudor date back to 1926 when it was first registered as a brand on behalf of Hans Wilsdorf, the founder of Rolex. In 1946, he founded the Montres Tudor SA company to produce watches for men and women that respect the traditional Rolex philosophy of quality at a more accessible price point. Throughout

their history, Tudor watches have been chosen by the boldest adventurers on land, underwater and on ice, the world over. In 1970, Tudor marked a milestone in its history with the launch of its first chronograph, a complication that still features prominently in its collections. The Oysterdate was powered by a robust mechanical Valjoux 7734 calibre with manual winding and cam chronograph mechanism, paving the way for a range of critically acclaimed future models. Modern Art Studio’s history with Tudor extends back over 70 years and the highly trained staff are ready to assist customers in finding the watch that suits them best. tudorwatch.com

SPECIAL FEATURE

112

June 2020

02, 03, 04 Visitors have access to genuine Tudor timepieces and the worldwide network of Tudor trained watchmakers

“Modern Art Studio’s history with

Tudor extends back over 70 years and the highly trained staff are ready to assist customers in finding the watch that suits them best.”

ARCHITECTURE

114

BOUTIQUE Experience

The most luxurious shopping destinations from around the world.

DELVAUX NEW YORK Delvaux, the world’s oldest luxury leather goods house, has opened its first American flagship store on Manhattan’s elegant Upper East Side. The 650-metre boutique is located inside the SherryNetherland building, an architectural jewel of the 1930s, set in the heart of Fifth Avenue. The interior was designed by Milan studio Vudafieri-Saverino Partners, which has been responsible for designing the world concept of Delvaux stores since 2012, giving each boutique a narrative slant that differs according to the characteristics and culture of each city. This makes every Delvaux boutique unique. Architects Tiziano Vudafieri and Claudio Saverino created a space that combines Delvaux’s ironic, eccentric interpretation of luxury with robust citations of Flemish design and decorative arts. Moreover, it pays tribute to the energy of Manhattan and the multi-cultural spirit that distinguishes the city. The Interior design takes inspiration from the living room of Palais Stoclet, a Belgian symbol, with the idea centered around Maison’s ‘belgitude’. The boutique stands out with indulgent decoration

and materials such as Calacatta Vagli marble, small geometric upholstery, and hints of ebony. Upon entering the store, a reproduction of the original revolving door leads into the world of Delvaux in the form of a spacious, scenic room. Here the Gris des Ardennes marble floor interacts with an imposing 5-metre-high mirror column. Inside, leather-cutting templates and period pieces from the Delvaux archive are on display. Spaces on the upper level become more intimate and private. The white curved boiserie leads to the VIP area, an elegant room open to the public which boasts stunning views of Fifth Avenue and Central Park. Here the large windows dialogue with the velvet seats and the marble and ebony display panels. Delvaux filed the first handbag patent in 1908, becoming the inventor of the modern handbag. Since its creation, the Maison has been both avant-garde and true to the finest traditions of craftsmanship while conveying the grandeur, heritage, and symbols of Belgian culture. delvaux.com

June 2020

ARCHITECTURE

116

June 2020

ÉGALITÉ MILAN Égalité is a French boulangerie, cafeteria, and bistro in Milan that celebrates the mélange of Italian and French culture. The inspiration behind this creative concept came from architect and food entrepreneur Tiziano Vudafieri and Master Boulanger Thierry Loy, who is renowned for setting new standards in high-end bread making with his boulangerie outlets in the French Alps. Égalité is several things in one: a bakery, a shop selling fresh and packaged products, the ideal place for a quick coffee, lunch, an afternoon snack, or an unusual aperitif. The eatery produces five different types of baguettes, seven types of bread, as well as one variety of the day that is always different. Thierry Loy and his staff in the laboratory carefully create the bread, using French baking techniques and the finest ingredients. The flour, for example, is produced through responsible or organic farming, highlighting Égalité’s commitment to sustainably and freshness. The chic interior is designed by the Milanbased studio Vudafieri-Saverino Partners, who have created other notable designs for popular restaurants around the world. The large laboratory and oven in the main room put the work of the bakers at the centre of the visual narrative, and the design combines a selection of materials that expresses simplicity and authenticity. The restaurant itself is sleek and stylish with a bright and intimate feel. Open from breakfast, lunch, and dinner, Égalité is located at the corner of Via Melzo and Via Lambro. It also offers typical French and Italian packaged products, including Atlantic sardines, organic Cornichon from Burgundy, Norman jams, Breton salted butter biscuits, Gianni Frasi coffee, and Italian extra-virgin olive oil. egalitemilano.it

ARCHITECTURE

118

SPAZIO FORME PARMIGIANO REGGIANO BOLOGNA Spazio Forme is a site-specific Experience Store, built within the largest agri-food park in the world, FICO Eataly World in Bologna. In Maurizio Lai’s project, the Parmigiano Reggiano is presented like a jewel, enclosed in a highly detailed ambience, which aims to highlight the preciousness of its ingredients and the mastery of its production. The store is conceived as a small museum, where the product is explored in its different dimensions, including historical, cultural, and gastronomical. It features a reception desk and an interactive area at the entrance from which the bar, the gastronomy, and catering departments develop on one side and the actual shop on the other one. Dividing the two zones is an installation, which interprets the traditional shelving used in the dairies by applying glass, mirrors, laser-cut metal, and lights to create a play of reflections. In this imposing showcase, the most valuable parmesan forms are exposed to the public, then opened and tasted in a daily ritual. The luminous wall paneling across the store is also inspired by the brickwork of the ancient dairies of the Emilia territory. The whole fit-out is exclusively designed and custom-manufactured, including the lighting design, which a key feature of the project. The experience is completed with an audio-visual immersive room, located next to the restaurant area. parmigianoreggiano.com

“The store is conceived as

a small museum, where the product is explored in its different dimensions, including historical, cultural, and gastronomical. ”

June 2020

ARCHITECTURE

120

June 2020

HUBLOT TOKYO Swiss luxury watch brand Hublot celebrates its 40th anniversary with another Big Bang! After Place Vendome in Paris, Rue du Rhône in Geneva, 5Th Avenue in New York City, New Bond Street in London, Heritage in Hong Kong Tsim Sha Tsui district, now comes Chuo-dori Street in Tokyo for the brand world’s biggest Flagship Boutique. The swiss luxury watchmaker is now present on an iconic location on Chuo-dori Street. The new boutique, also called the “Hublot tower” thanks to its 56-meter-high dynamic façade, offers Hublot a stylish, luxurious and open space. The Hublot Boutique Ginza perfectly expresses The Art of Fusion, the brand concept focused on the blending of materials and ideas. Across three floors, customers will be immersed in the world of Hublot. Visitors will find the whole collection displayed on the ground floor, the VIP experience room on the second floor and the exhibition area on the third floor. The 56-meter high dynamic façade is the most idiosyncratic and artistic façade of the brand’s boutiques. The laminated glass panels scattered with mirrored pieces exhibits different sights: it reflects

sunlight to create a beautiful glitter during the daytime, and at nighttime a luxurious glow appears to emanate from within. The interior of the boutique, boasting the brand’s largest retail space at 330 square meters, reflects one of the important elements of Hublot’s watchmaking-its unique use of materials. The spacious boutique expresses on three floors the contemporary style so dear to Hublot: leather chairs, ebony tables, floors of marble or carpet, and an impressive staircase with sides made of zigzag laser-cut mirrored stainless steel. Another highlight of the boutique is the crystal chandelier installed on the vaulted ceiling reaching more than 9 metres high, which can be rarely found in Japan. The entrance hall is full of a sense of openness and welcomes customers. Each floor of Hublot Boutique Ginza expresses the fusion of quality materials and contemporary, luxurious beauty by boldly displayed pop artworks depicting Hublot timepieces and movements on the walls, stretching from floor to ceiling. egalitemilano.it

YACHTS

An Unforgettable JOURNEY

122

June 2020

A brand-new cruise experience in the pristine East Indonesian Archipelago, Aqua Blu is a long-range explorer yacht sailing to the region’s most prized destinations.

01 Aqua Blu offers a new experience in the East Indonesian Archipelago 02 Travelers can visit villages on their trip 03 Snorkeling is one of the activities on offer

Aqua Blu began operations in November 2019 and is Aqua Expeditions’ first coastal ship, and the first-ever long-range expedition-class yacht to be permanently based in the East Indonesian Archipelago with year-round departures. Aqua Blu offers a variety of 7- and 12-night itineraries to some of the world’s most pristine regions: Komodo National Park, the Spice Islands, and Raja Ampat. Partnering with internationally-renowned yacht designer Cor D. Rover, the completely refurbished Aqua Blu is endowed with a rich heritage as the former British Naval Explorer HMS Beagle. The RINA-classed, SOLAS-certified steel-hull vessel offers guests 15 individually designed suites and refined amenities accompanied by top-of-the-line watersports equipment. Led by highly experienced crew and guides, guests embark on expeditions to explore the world’s most biodiverse marine habitats, with opportunities to hike an active volcano, see rare native bird species and immerse in centuriesold history and culture. Australian historian and author Ian Burnet will join Aqua Blu as a local expert on the Ambon and Spice Islands sailings in October 2020. Burnet spent thirty years living, working and travelling in Indonesia and has written multiple books on the archipelago. His book, Spice Islands, received critical acclaim for

YACHTS

124

04 Guests can enjoy many contemporary luxuries 05 The itinerary includes visits to beautiful islands 06 Some of nature’s offerings at Spice Islands 07 Fort Belgica in Banda Neira

its scholarship and entertaining history, covering the romance and adventure of the spice trade which spans more than an incredible 2000 years. The Ambon and Spice Islands 7-night itinerary travels across the Banda Sea and throughout the Spice Islands, exploring destinations such as Banda Neira, the epicentre of Old World global spice trade, Pulau Run, a remote village island – once traded by the British for the island of Manhattan - as well as the forgotten islands of Nusa Laut and Molana, a picturesque paradise for both water- and landbased adventures. Every Aqua Expeditions journey is highly experiential in nature and encompasses tailored activities with expert-guided small-group excursions, including world-class diving, refreshing cuisine and exceptional service.

Travellers will board the Aqua Blu, a former British Naval Explorer HMS Beagle, and the first-ever ocean-faring yacht to be permanently based in the East Indonesian Archipelago. Recently refurbished in 2019 by Dutch yacht design maestro Cor D. Rover, it continues its own distinguished sense of maritime heritage with contemporary luxuries. Ian Burnet will host the Ambon and Spice Islands expedition from 17th to 24th October 2020 and 24th to 31st October 2020, delivering a number of lectures including the history of the Dutch East India Company, the Banda massacre, and the Coral Triangle, a region often referred to as one of the most biodiverse places on Earth. aquaexpeditions.com

June 2020

06 07

YACHTS

126

Exquisite Craftsmanship Hylas Yachts has made a new step in the luxury sailing world with the introduction of the new H60 performance cruiser, the most advanced yacht in the storied 40-year history of the shipyard.

Hylas Yachts has launched over 520 boats so far and collaborated with a number of star designers, such as Sparkman & Stephens, Germán Frers, Bill Dixon, Dean Salthouse, and Doug Zurn and many other. The renowned designers German Frers and Hot Lab are responsible for the exterior and interior, respectively. The shipyard’s latest cruiser has made its official world debut in February at the Miami Boat Show 2020. The Hylas 60 represents the next step forward for Hylas Yachts in the performance cruiser market. Embracing the latest construction techniques with cored hulls that deliver improved performance, more rigorous quality assurance techniques and significant strength advantages. The hull design and sailplan from Frers has created means today’s voyaging couples can expect to stretch daily cruising distances and find handling the yacht very manageable when shorthanded. The introduction of CZone digital switching has made interior

system controls easy through portable devices and dedicated touch screens. Even the introduction of the highly efficient Volvo D3 engine brings a more sophisticated level of monitoring and control of the fuel and power systems. As prospective clients tour the yacht and look behind the scenes they will see improvements in every area from fresh water pumps to the use of hydraulics for in-mast furling, backstay control, vang control and the lowering swim platform that opens up the dinghy garage. Longtime Hylas fans will not be disappointed by her performance. Built using the most advanced construction technologies, the H60 has been designed to excel in all conditions with excellent seakeeping ability. A plumb bow and broad transom make the most of her waterline length underway, providing speed with optimal comfort. The builder partnered with Milan-based firm Hot Lab, known for their elegant designs in the superyacht world, to offer interiors that immediately

June 2020

“At Hylas Yachts, we have proven our

yachts can take cruisers around the world in comfort.”

YACHTS

128

03 02

June 2020

01 The new H60 performance cruiser 02, 03, 04 The exterior and interior were the creation of renowned designers German Frers and Hot Lab 05, 06 The H60 has been designed to excel in all conditions with excellent seakeeping ability

set the new Hylas on a new level. “We worked in close contact with the yard’s team. The development of a soft and gauzy mood-board has been the result of this relationship,” says Enrico Lumini, partner and interior chief designer at Hot Lab. “This is how we ended up with a whitish, oiled wood, warm, polished-nickel elements, and creamy leathers. All materials and details which blend together in an incredibly soft manner, keeping the traditional feeling of a pure sailing yacht interior, yet contemporary and tranquility-inspiring.” Clean lines are emphasized, taking advantage of the yacht builder’s reputation for fine interior joinery, while exhibiting a stylish and modern sensibility. Large hull-side windows, a cabin trunk surrounded with windows, skylights and overhead hatches all bathe the interior in natural light. Owners can choose between three- and four-stateroom layouts. The three-stateroom layout places a master suite aft, with a large berth on centerline. A VIP stateroom with queen berth is forward, with private access to a head that is shared with a portside double with up-and-down berths. Amidships, a large salon area with an L-shaped settee with dining table and stools also has a starboard-side settee. The navigation station is to port and a walk-through galley to starboard. The four-stateroom layout places the master in the bow, using the aft sections for a pair of mirrored double staterooms. Cockpits are huge and come in two versions according to the owners’ layout preferences.

The deck is flush and clean, with all halyards and control lines run in conduits beneath the deck. There are two keel options, both with twin rudder configuration, for positive control under sail in all weather conditions and good maneuvering under power in close quarters. A telescopic keel is also an option. The sweptback spreader rig is simple and efficient. Runners will be auxiliary, required only in heavy weather or when the self-tacking staysail is set. The main and working jib set up makes for easy boat handling. The generous sail area performs very well and the A sail can be set from the bowsprit without a spinnaker pole. The yacht has every modern cruising convenience, including a self-deploying anchor, a hydraulic transom swim platform and an optional automated passerrelle. A dinghy garage aft eliminates the need for davits and maintains the clean, uncluttered look on deck. “At Hylas Yachts, we have proven our yachts can take cruisers around the world in comfort,” says Andy Huang, CEO of Hylas Yachts. “As our clients have become increasingly knowledgeable and sophisticated it is imperative we keep up with new looks as well as technologies. We will continue to be very open to customization but with Hot Lab, the H60 will give our clients an optional convenience of a “turnkey package” with enhanced styling.” hylasyachts.com

MASTERPIECE

130

June 2020

Artistic TRIUMPHS One of Bahrain’s most gifted artists, Mustafa Al Halwachi is a prominent example of the talents we have in the Kingdom. Participating in his first exhibition in 1998, his skills have taken him to international festivals, where he worked alongside some of the world’s biggest names and made history with his own contributions. He speaks to Durrah on how street art is often misunderstood and why we need real change to further develop the local art community.

ARTISTS OFTEN SPEAK OF A SPARK THAT MADE THEM REALIZE THEY WERE DESTINED FOR THE ART WORLD. DID YOU HAVE THAT EXPERIENCE? AND WHEN DID YOU REALIZE THIS WAS YOUR PATH? Ever since I was a young boy. Around the 4th or 5th grade, my art teacher, who was a surrealist, started an initiative to paint the school walls. The first time my eyes saw him in action, I felt that strange familiarity with what he was doing. I felt right at home. He sensed that and asked me if I would like to help him paint, which I did, of course. I was naturally inclined and was very comfortable painting and drawing. However, through the years, I didn’t follow through. I was interested in many other things instead. Plus, in those days, the art field was not as diverse and progressive as it is today. I treated it mostly as a hobby. The realization came much later when an opportunity presented itself to me and I participated in Alwan festival around 2013. That was my first street art festival. At that moment, I soaked up the vibe and fully immersed myself in

art, making it more than just a hobby. It wasn’t just a spark, it was a massive explosion!

HOW DID YOU FEEL ABOUT THE PUBLIC’S PERCEPTION WHEN YOU STARTED PERFORMING STREET ART? WERE THERE PEOPLE WHO OPPOSED THE IDEA OF STREET ART OR WERE THEY MOSTLY SUPPORTIVE? In the beginning, no one was taking it seriously as an art form. It was very new to Bahrain, with only a handful of artists doing graffiti and street art. People were more used to the traditional approach. If you’re an artist, then they expect you to work in a studio and showcase your work in a gallery or exhibition. They couldn’t see it in any other way. Street art, like every contemporary art form, faced backlash from society. I accepted that because I believe that artists must keep working hard and try spreading their message in a way that educates and elevates their field. You can’t satisfy everyone, anyway. So, I just do the work and let it do what it does best. Some view it as a

form of vandalism and as something negative and destructive. It’s understandable because that’s the only exposure they have with graffiti and street art. But at the same time, there are many that love it and want to see more. We started receiving enquiries from event organizers who were supportive and loved this art form. Also, the birth of The Nest art festival at 2014 and its growth over the next 4 years helped cement the idea of public art intervention. We kept reinforcing it with our efforts, and as a result, more and more artists came onto the scene. The more we worked, the more public perception towards street art improved. Its popularity is still growing stronger every day.

YOU ARE SKILLED AT BOTH MEDIUMS, BUT DO YOU IDENTIFY MORE AS A STREET ARTIST OR AS A CANVAS PAINTER? AND IS THERE A WORLD OF DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THEM? First and foremost, I identify as an artist, a creative individual who always explores the

01 Mustafa Al Halwachi 02 Al Halwachi’s art often features surreal themes

MASTERPIECE

132

June 2020

possibilities of what lies outside and inside myself. The medium is just a means to translate my philosophies and concepts into a visual experience. The urban landscape is my canvas and the streets are my studio and gallery. I find myself more comfortable there than inside a studio, working alone or in a gallery, showcasing for a limited time and audience. The energy and vibe are completely different when you’re not surrounded by four walls. Although, I still work on a canvas and have always been. It remains an integral part of my process as an artist as well as a source of income. I also started working with 3D software and other programs because I found that I need all the tools I can get to further my abilities and produce higher quality work. The fundamentals remain the same, however, there are differences such as scale. Working on a massive wall on the street is a game changer. It really challenges you physically and mentally. Another big difference is time, which is definitely not on your side when you’re working outdoors. Street artists must finish the work on time because if they don’t, it’s like leaving laundry out in the open. Not a good a view! This is why we must approach the artwork with a different mindset than that of working in a studio. We have to be organized. We must plan and mock up the artwork, and we have to make sure we have exactly the materials and tools we need. There’s very little room for mistakes. Not to mention the weather, which is a major issue in this part of the world!

03, 04, 05, 06 Mustafa Al Halwachi’s unique work can be seen all around the Kingdom

“My work speaks from different sides of the psyche. My life is as dynamic as anyone else’s, and I don’t allow my work to remain static.” 03

04 05

WHAT THEMES ATTRACT YOU THE MOST AS AN ARTIST? SOMETHING THAT YOU FEEL COMPELLED TO EXPRESS OR COMMUNICATE IN YOUR WORK?

To tell you the truth, I love it all. I started out as a surreal artist and I still am. I find this school of thought creeping into everything I do, whether it’s a graffiti piece, a mural, or an installation. It has to come from an internal dialogue. It has to raise questions that aren’t necessarily answered. I’m attracted to the mystery of life and I like expressing that in my work. I also love pop art and pop culture. Sometimes, you just need to let loose and have fun. My work speaks from different sides of the psyche. My life is as dynamic as anyone else’s, and I don’t allow my work to remain static. I know many colleagues and fellow artists who would disagree, as they feel they need to work with a certain theme to build familiarity and brand. I respect their opinions but I don’t feel I need to be on the same page. We’re all different. Am I right or wrong? Who knows, I just know I love to do my thing.

IS THERE A PARTICULAR PROJECT OF YOURS THAT YOU FEEL WILL ALWAYS BE THE CLOSEST TO YOUR HEART? I consider myself very fortunate because I enjoyed every one of my endeavors so far. However, there are certain projects that have a special place in my heart as a whole experience. 06

Particularly, my latest international participation in Forum Mondial Chokry Belaid art festival in Tunisia. It was truly an amazing event and I’m honored to have been invited to participate in it. I had many firsts in this event, including my first visit to Africa, and my largest portrait to date, which stands at 12 meters high. It was the largest portrait in the festival. It was also my first time working alongside big names in the international street art arena. It was unforgettable.

WHAT WILL BE THE NEXT STEP FOR YOU AS AN ARTIST? I consider myself very ambitious and driven as an artist, so the plans are many! I want to continue being a cultural ambassador, participating in more international art arenas to represent Bahrain. I also want to be part of the initiatives in Bahrain to create a hub for the art community, hopefully establishing our own international art festival one day. And I want to establish channels of communication between government and private entities to facilitate creating more public artworks and programs, which will make a real positive change in our social and economic fabric. instagram.com/mustafahalwachi

TRAVEL

134

Tropical PARADISE A mere five hours away from Bahrain is a tropical ocean paradise unlike any other. With emerald green rainforests, powdery white sand, crystal clear turquoise waters, and some of the most stunning and secluded beaches in the world, Seychelles is rightly known as the ultimate romantic getaway.

The archipelago of Seychelles comprises 115 unspoilt islands, of which only 16 are inhabited. Most of its beaches are totally untouched and many are naturally surrounded by palm trees and lush vegetation to provide some welcome shade throughout the day. Apart from the world famous and exquisite beaches, Seychelles boasts a number of attractions, including incredible rock formations, amazing coral reefs and picturesque mountains. The flora and fauna are equally breathtaking. Since the islands were larglely inhabited by humans for a long time, a unique range of endemic species which has evolved here. For example, the Aldabra giant tortoise is native to the Seychelles and is one of the largest tortoises anywhere in the world. You can find them roaming free on islands like Cousin and Curieuse. The islands are also home to the world’s smallest frog and 12 endemic species of birds. This biodiversity is protected within two UNESCO World Heritage Sites as well as several impressive Nature Reserves and National Parks. Head to Mahé, the largest island of the Seychelles, to take in the lush green jungles and

spectacular rugged scenery. Hiking is even popular here, with various trails leading to great viewpoints all across the island and through Morne Seychellois National Park. The tallest mountain is Morne Seychellois at just under 3000 feet. Praslin Island is home to Vallee de Mai, claimed to be the original site of the Garden of Eden. Its scalloped coastline and breathtaking beaches are among the most beautiful in the world. La Digue is an ideal destination for diving, and its quiet charm gives the impression that time has stopped here. The best time to dive the Seychelles is April, October or November when the seas are calm and you can dive with sharks and manta rays. During the monsoon season of late May to September, the visibility is lower, but the presence of lots of plankton brings whale sharks. From La Digue, you can sail to Cocos Island, to enjoy swimming in a lush natural aquarium. The food is delicious, featuring freshly caught seafood as the star attraction. You can find tuna, bonito, sea bass, red snapper, barracuda, king mackerel, gilt-head bream and lobster, cooked

June 2020

TRAVEL

01 Breathtaking scenery 02 The Aldabra giant tortoise, native to Seychelles

136

04 Moutia, the traditional dance of the Seychelles 05 The serene Anse Takamaka

03 Mesmerizing sunset over the coastline

in every imaginable way. Seychellois cuisine is a colourful and harmonious blend of African, European and Asian influences, creating a truly unique blend that reflects the diverse ethnic mix of the islands. From luxurious resorts and exotic hideaways to intimate family-run establishments, Seychelles has something for everyone. For the ultimate once-ina-lifetime luxury experience, visitors can rent their own private island. Fregate Island provides both villa rental and whole-island rental. On are more limited budget, there are many private islands with a limited number of rooms that will offer the same amount of exclusivity and personalised treatment. While you’re here, indulge in some pampering and rejuvenate your body and soul in some of the best spas in the world. There are no visa requirements for any nationality and the weather is beautiful all year round.

June 2020

Seef Mall +973 1758 1911

sporthorizons

TRAVEL

138

Beyond Luxury Velaa Private Island Maldives has been crowned with a prestigious ‘Five-Star’ hotel award by Forbes Travel Guide. The renowned awards are hallmark of the world’s best luxury hotels, restaurants and spas. Operating not as a business first, Velaa is the passion project and vision of a couple, Jiri and Radka Smejc, to create the world’s most luxurious private island resort. It’s home to an array of amenities unseen across the Maldives – from a 9 hole golf course, to South Asia’s most exclusive wine cellar, a mini-submarine, snow room and more. The island also houses a private residence that serves as a personal retreat for their family and friends. Forbes Travel Guide is recognized for creating the original concept of Five-Star service, Velaa Private Island is the latest addition to its illustrious annual Star Rating list. Home to the largest Coral Regeneration Project in the Maldives, Velaa Private Island is also making history, having successfully transplanted over 4,200 nursery grown corals, spectacularly increasing coral growth around the island by 3% since its plantation just three years ago. Designed and directed by the island’s very own onsite Coral Biologist, the area has also seen a surge in fish quantity throughout both the transplant areas and their surrounding endangered sites, which the resort aims to double within the near future. Hidden away within a collection of islands known as the Noonu Atoll, the project aims to raise awareness of the destroyed coral reefs following the severe global bleaching in 1998 and 2016 (which destroyed 60% of the country’s reefs), and allows guests to experience first-hand the extraordinary

June 2020

04 01 Designer four bedroom residences at Velaa Private Island 02 Velaa Private Island has been designed and curated to offer comfort and privacy immersed in luxury 03 Aragu Signature restaurant

04 Velaa Private Residences can accommodate upto 10 people

TRAVEL

140

June 2020

rewards of coral restoration, helping to create a diverse, self-sustaining ecosystem. With the capacity of nursing over 6,000 corals within its four nurseries, the survival rate of transplanted corals remains remarkably at over 80% creating a thriving and safe environment for the areas divine marine life including black and white tip reef sharks, nurse sharks, the seasonal manta ray, black spotted stingray and the graceful eagle ray. The globally renowned Maldivian resort also recently launched its brand new Velaa Spa, offering a whole new range of wellness programmes. Set in an picturesque, over-water sanctuary, this tranquil, rejuvenating paradise will allow guests to heighten wellbeing, reconnect body and soul and leave feeling better rested, more nourished and in a happier state of mind.

Drawing upon a philosophy based on the balance between Body, Nutrition, Fitness and Mind, the new Velaa Spa will offer a multisensory experience with a range of bespoke scents, inspired by and enhancing the smells of the local flora, fauna and ocean 3- and 5-day wellness experiences tailor-made to suit individual guests’ needs, monthly experiences with internationally esteemed visiting practitioners. The spa will also have the following, a new menu of spa services that includes a new series of powerfully healing signature treatments and new spa products, including Velaa Spa’s own line of spa products, along with new lines from Japanese skincare brand Kotoshina and luxury Swiss beauty range Dr Burgener. velaaprivateisland.com

05 The island offers numerous activities including fishing, sunset cruise and other exciting activities 06 Velaa Private Island offers a range of land and water activities for all age groups 07 Tavaru Restaurant and Wine Cellar 08 Arrive in your private jet and enjoy a luxurious holiday in complete privacy in the Indian Ocean

“It’s home to an array of amenities unseen across the Maldives – from a 9 hole golf course, to South Asia’s most exclusive wine cellar, a mini-submarine, snow room and more.”

HOTELS

142

June 2020

01 01 Underwater fine dining experience at SEA 02 SKY was built for stargazing encounters 03 Visitors can experience the most powerful telescope in the region 04 Snorkelling with manta rays, an unforgettable experience 02

05 Aerial view of Anantara Kihavah

ANANTARA KIHAVAH MALDIVES VILLAS, MALDIVES Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas has launched a new room package to commemorate the resort’s reopening in Q3 2020. A culmination of experiences unique not just to the destination but also exclusively available at this idyllic Indian Ocean retreat, this carefully curated six-night stay package includes three distinct once-in-a-lifetime adventures; snorkelling with manta rays, stargazing at the only over water observatory in the Maldives, and fine dining underwater at SEA, one of the world’s few oceanic restaurants. The dream Maldives holiday at Anantara Kihavah begins with a flight over hypnotic shades of blue, as you are transported away to the Baa Atoll island archipelago. Situated within a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve teeming with rich marine life, the resort is well placed for the ultimate once-in-alifetime experience – snorkelling with manta rays. Owning to the abundance of krill and plankton that accumulates in Hanifaru Bay during the months of May to November, bear witness to the annual

migration of these mysterious gigantic oceanic creatures as they feed. Once in the water, be treated to an amazing underwater ballet, performed by giant mantas gliding and somersaulting in mesmerising patterns. Curious and friendly, they often swim within centimetres of snorkellers, always managing to avoid contact at the last second – making for an extraordinary memory. The second aquatic experience in ‘The Best of Kihavah’ stay package is a sublime culinary journey undersea. Nestled within Anantara Kihavah’s famed house reef, descend into SEA, the resort’s awardwinning underwater restaurant and wine cellar which houses over 450 labels and vintages dating from 1795. An exceptional feast for the senses, savour a gourmet three-course lunch carefully paired with fine wines handpicked by the resident Wine Guru, whilst luxuriating in panoramic views of marine life at play amongst vibrant corals. From the ocean to the sky, the grand finale in the package revolves around the universe. With

its proximity to the equator, the Maldives is truly an astronomer’s paradise and Anantara Kihavah is the perfect place for spectacular views of both the southern and northern sky. Custom-built for such stargazing encounters, SKY is a unique cocktail bar and home to the most powerful telescope in the region, in the only over water observatory in the Maldives. Perched over the aquamarine lagoon, the bar proffers front-row seats to ocean views from every vantage point during the day, and as night falls, the open roof deck comes alive. Sip champagne and nibble on Asian inspired tapas, whilst absorbing knowledge imparted by the Sky Guru as he leads with his laser pointer on this cosmic journey as you gaze upon the stars. This Maldives holiday package is designed to awaken wanderlust. A promise of great adventures awaits at Anantara Kihavah as you take away memories of life-affirming moments. kihavah-maldives.anantara.com

Redefining Hospitality 04

Discover the true meaning of hospitality and experience the ultimate in luxury at these global destinations.

HOTELS

144

08 06 Guests are transported to a world of luxury from the moment they enter 07 The ultra-modern and spacious dining room 08 A truly relaxing spa experience 09 A private shuttle boat ride takes guests into the resort

June 2020

JW MARRIOTT VENICE RESORT & SPA From the masterplan to the recovery of existing buildings, the intervention on the JW Marriot Venice Resort & Spa by Matteo Thun & Partners + Luca Colombo was constantly inspired by a holistic vision and considered as a harmonious whole, paying attention to every single detail. The flooring was designed to recreate the old wooden flooring of the restaurant in the former National Recreational Club. The 10x60 cm porcelain stoneware strip tiles in four pastel colours (Architecture Warm Grey and White, Unicolore Acquamarina and Rosa Antico), laid in a herringbone pattern using the Italian method (i.e. placed in such a way as to form a perfect 90-degree angle) create an effect that hints at weaved rugs and broaden the creative possibilities of ceramic. The new luxury JW Marriott Venice Resort & Spa is located in Sacca Sessola, dubbed the Island of Roses, one of the largest and most recent islands of the Lagoon south of Venice. The island was artificially created in 1870, using the excavation material from the construction of the Santa Marta commercial port, and was completely 09 transformed over the course of a century. The island was sold to the Municipality of Venice that

used it for building the sheds of the oil depot. In 1892, some of the sheds were converted into a hospital for treating contagious endemic diseases. In 1914, the San Marco hospital was officially opened, and in 1927, works began to construct a new hospital, which was inaugurated in 1937. A large park, thermal power plant, depots, workshops, water tower, and National Recreational Club with a cinema were all built around the pavilions. The hospital closed down in 1979, until 2015, when the Marriott Group entrusted Matteo Thun & Partners + Luca Colombo with the restoration and design project, the extraordinary result of which earned them a special mention in the public and service buildings category at the 11th edition of the international architecture Grand Prix. The firm, supported by a team of specialised restorers and in close collaboration with the Superintendence of Venice, decided to keep the old exposed walls and build the new facility within them to protect the historical character of the buildings. The aim of the masterplan was to divide the island into three main parts: the main building of the hotel, the conference centre, and the Art Nouveau residence. The main building of the

Resort houses 230 contemporary Venetian-style suites and was obtained from what was the former San Marco Hospital. The large panoramic terrace with the addition of an infinity pool and the panoramic restaurant overlooking Piazza San Marco were the main architectural changes. The conference centre and residence are located next to the main complex. The Art Nouveau residence was the home of the director of the former hospital and has been transformed into an elegant holiday villa with a private garden, swimming pool and a spectacular view over Venice. In addition to the olive grove and the park, there is a beautiful geometric garden that opens onto a large orchard, which serves the resort’s restaurants. A third green area has been planted with turnips, which help with soil regeneration. The reopening of an underground canal has restored the special lagoon atmosphere characterised by water, slowness and silence. The JW Marriot Venice Resort & Spa is a ‘three zero’ resort – zero kilometres (meaning it uses only local produce), zero CO2, zero waste – away from the noise and bustle of the city. jwvenice.com

HOTELS

146

June 2020

ONE&ONLY GORILLA’S NEST, RWANDA Offering an exclusive front-row seat to observe endangered mountain gorillas in the wild, One&Only Gorilla’s Nest is cushioned in the foothills of the breathtaking Virunga volcano range. Guests can explore where few have been before in one of the world’s most exceptional natural locations. One&Only Gorilla’s Nest is the ultimate ultra-luxury resort in Kinigi, northwest of Rwanda and just five minutes from Volcanoes National Park. The park is home to the highest number of mountain gorillas, five dormant volcanoes and is categorised as a rainforest because of its montane ecosystem. Guests of One&Only Gorilla’s Nest receive a traditional Rwandan welcome upon arrival, as vibrant drummers can be heard as guests drive through the large wooden gates along the local volcanic stone pathway, revealing the dramatic Eucalyptus forest ahead. A signature rose welcome drink from the resort’s rose garden, or locally produced coffee is served from the Main Lodge where fireplaces burn and local African artwork can be discovered, and is the place where everyone gathers after a long day of trekking. Beautifully designed private sanctuaries seamlessly blend with the location and offer an intimate collection of 21 jungle-chic havens.

Featuring 10 Forest King Lodges, four TwoBedroom Forest Lodges, five Virunga Suites, one Ingagi and Silverback Suite, each space is designed to frame nature, and is surrounded by Eucalyptus trees and strategically positioned on stilts. Private decks and in-room fireplaces provide guests the opportunity to live amongst the endless landscape, inviting the outside in, and allowing for a truly unforgettable African experience. Suites offer spacious living and dining areas, as well as a true natural experience with outdoor bathtubs high amongst the trees, offering ultimate privacy. Each lodge design is modern with an African contemporary feel, showcasing the hues of the surrounding vistas, and colours of the earth and natural, local volcanic rock, with touches of black and white Rwandan imigongo patterns. Guests enjoy meals in the main restaurant, Nest, offering dining both indoor and out, as well as a private dining area for up to 22 guests. Executive Chef Bryan English and his team focus on local and organic ingredients, making use of the abundant produce from local farmers as well as his own Chef’s Garden. Similar to One&Only Nyungwe House, the culinary team work on a new menu daily with a focus on Rwandan and African influences, based

on guests’ preferences and dietary needs. Private outdoor dining experiences, barbeques and picnics are also an option for guests, alternatively lighter meals are available at the Pool Bar throughout the day. Nest Bar serves classic cocktails with a modern twist incorporating rose water and Eucalyptus from the surrounding forest. The One&Only Spa in partnership with South African brand, Terres d’Afrique, offers guests holistic treatments using plant-based African ingredients and provides two treatment suites in a private building. Guests can select treatments tailored to a specific area of the body and three signature treatments, only found at One&Only Gorilla’s Nest, pay homage to the location, taking inspiration from the local community and surroundings, including the Forest Coffee and Coconut Treatment, The Gorilla’s Nest Essence of Rose and Post Trek & Travel. Guests also have access to Club One facilities offering a relaxation room, an open-air heated pool and plunge pool, as well as the Fitness Centre with steam room and sauna, and the Pool Bar offering healthy options with fruit juices evolving into evening cocktails. mandarinoriental.com/london/hyde-park

10, 11 One&Only Gorilla’s Nest is cushioned in the foothills of the breathtaking Virunga volcano range 12, 13 Beautifully designed interior

HOTELS

148

14 The enchanting Mandarin Oriental, Lago di Como 15, 16 Breathtaking interior 17 Spacious Penthouse bedroom

14 15

June 2020

MANDARIN ORIENTAL, LAGO DI COMO, ITALY Spring is in the air and coming soon to Mandarin Oriental, Lago di Como. This charming five-star resort, nestled on the shores of beautiful Lake Como, has some attractive enhancements to its accommodation, gardens, dining and wellness activities. Renowned interior designer Eric Egan and landscape architect Patrizia Pozzi have deployed their talents to continue surprising and delighting guests. And to celebrate these new heights of luxurious living, the resort is offering a New Season, New Sensations package that includes luxury accommodation, dining and spa benefits and a complimentary car transfer, allowing guests to indulge and relax in style. The jewel in the crown of the resort is the recently renovated Panoramic Suite with private swimming pool. This delightful and spacious 116-square-metre suite includes a comfortable and luxurious bedroom, expansive bathroom, large living area, private kitchen with dining area, and a guest bathroom. French doors fill the suite with natural light and open onto a large private terrace with unparalleled views of the lake. The resort’s restaurants are another cause to celebrate. The 2020 Michelin Guide for Italy recently awarded one Michelin star to L˜ARIA, run by Chef Vincenzo Guarino, only seven months after opening. Immersed in the lush botanical park of the resort, with a wide terrace for al fresco dining, the lakefront L˜ARIA serves an authentic Mediterranean cuisine based on traditional dishes. With an open-plan kitchen, guests can watch Chef Guarino and his team weave their magic. There’s even a Chef’s table that allows four guests to be front-row spectators. Another eatery with a stunning view from the lakeside terrace is CO.MO Bar & Bistrot. Ideal for informal drinks and dining at any time of day, the restaurant has introduced a daily pizza menu and signature pizzas by Chef Guarino. Also new this year are special evenings dedicated to the art of

mixology, with live music entertainment to match the unforgettable sunsets and original drinks. And there’s more news from The Spa at Mandarin Oriental, Lago di Como, the resort’s renowned haven of holistic wellbeing. Making the most of the stunning and graceful view of Italy’s iconic lake, guests can enjoy relaxing yoga and tai chi interludes or even venture out on personalised hikes along the panoramic hills surrounding the lake. For guests wishing to entertain, the resort’s Villa del Lago is the perfect venue for any kind of event, providing plenty of privacy and sweeping views of the lake. Also revitalised are Mandarin Oriental, Lago di Como’s sustainability initiatives. The hotel is fully supportive of Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group’s pledge to eliminate all single-use plastic across its global portfolio and is busy sourcing viable eco-alternatives. In addition, the resort has two electric Tesla X cars on the property. The vehicles are available for shortdistance transfers, exploring the surrounding towns and villages, or quick trips into the city of Como. Mandarin Oriental, Lago di Como is a sanctuary of calm, nestled on the sunny forest shores of Lake Como. 19th Century Villa Roccabruna is at the heart of the resort, which features a total of 21 rooms, 52 suites and two-stand-alone private villas, skilfully renovated to create a sense of modern Italian elegance with a subtle oriental charm. Idyllic lake views can be enjoyed from the resort‘s restaurants, which include Michelin-starred restaurant L˜ARIA, CO.MO Bar & Bistrot and the Pool Bar by the resort’s floating pool on the lake. The Spa at Mandarin Oriental, Lago di Como is the largest on the lake, with two private spa suites, two treatment rooms, a beauty studio, a nextgeneration Technogym fitness centre and a holistic heat and water experience area. mandarinoriental.com

SPAS

150

June 2020

SERENE TREATMENTS Take your body and mind on a journey of relaxation with these worldwide destinations of tranquility.

THE SPA AT CHEDI AL BAIT SHARJAH The Spa at The Chedi Al Bait combines centuries of beauty practices with a contemporary touch of exclusive hospitality. Set up in a heritage resort in the heart of Sharjah, the treatments are performed in unmatched tranquility by qualified therapists, using premium organic products derived from eons of natural beauty treatments that target the body and the mind for a total healing experience. Each suite in The Spa is designed to provide total privacy, divided into separate ladies’ and gentlemen’s sections. Each respective area contains separate relaxation lounges, hammam, steam and sauna as well as individual reception areas and spa boutiques, while the ladies can enjoy additional facilities of hot and cold plunge pools. The Chedi Al Bait, Sharjah has crafted a variety of holistic treatments, combining ancient healing methods with modern expertise, delivering an experience based on the principles of aromatherapy, Ayurveda and herbalism, stimulating the senses to reach a pure state of rejuvenation and ultimate recovery. chedialbaitsharjah.com

01, 04 Expertly crafted holistic treatments 02, 03 Serene and tranquil setting for perfect relaxation

02 03

SPAS

152

05 Serene atmosphere 06, 09 Lush tropical plants surround the spa 07, 08 Guests can choose from a variety of treatments

“There is something for everyone, from children to honeymooners.” 08

June 2020

CONSTANCE PRINCE MAURICE MAURITIUS Step into the luxury Constance Spa at Constance Prince Maurice and you will be welcomed by a florally scented atmosphere and lush tropical plants surrounding the spa. Relax, rejuvenate, detox, deep cleanse, re-hydrate or simply enjoy – whatever you choose, your ultimate spa experience will be tailored according to your preferences and needs. There is something for everyone, from children to honeymooners. Choose from a wide range of massages and other spa treatments, from a ‘jetlag’ massage to an ‘after sun repair wrap’, and the new honey massage which uses locally produced honey. Guests who value privacy and intimate time have the option of booking an exclusive spa experience for two followed by a private dinner in the serene atmosphere of the spa. Those who prefer to rest after their spa treatment can relax around the thermal pool with the spa’s wireless headphones and take their own time to rechange and reconnect with themselves. constancehotels.com

SPAS

154

MANDARIN ORIENTAL SPA MIAMI Adopting a different approach to the traditional spa experience, The Spa at Mandarin Oriental, Miami offers a series of innovative and restorative treatments inspired by the elements of life, and the ancient traditions of Chinese, Ayurvedic, European, Balinese and Thai cultures. The VIP spa suites have been custom designed for specific treatments and offer the ultimate spa environment, with luxurious facilities and views of Biscayne Bay. Combining ancient and contemporary techniques with expert knowledge from around the world, the highly trained therapists offer treatments specially designed to meet the needs of each individual.

The beauty room features an Oxygen Machine, HydraFacial machine, and exclusive Biologique Recherche Remodeling Face Machine for holistic and advanced facials. Indulge in your selection of results-oriented face and body treatments designed to firm, tone and improve the skin while incorporating the finest anti-aging products. The fully equipped fitness center is equipped with state-of-the-art cardiovascular equipment for complete wellness and offers outdoor yoga classes, Tai Chi, Qi Gong, belly dancing and personal training. mandarinoriental.com/miami

June 2020

10 The luxury spa couples’ suite 11, 12 The ultimate relaxation experience

11 12

BON APPÉTIT

156

Culinary Genius José Avillez is considered one of the great references of Portuguese gastronomy and has stood out because of his enterprising spirit and drive to go further. He has several restaurants in Lisbon and Porto, each with a different concept, but all expressing his passion for cuisine, including Belcanto which is distinguished with two Michelin stars and considered one of the best restaurants in the world by the prestigious “The World’s 50 Best Restaurants List”.

Tasca at Mandarin Oriental Jumeira, Dubai is chef José Avillez’s first international restaurant project. Further information available at www.joseavillez.pt

June 2020

Bacalhau à Gomes de Sá INGREDIENTS

• • • • • • • • • •

Codfish 400 gr Onion sliced 250 gr Roasted potatoes 300 gr Olive oil 150 gr Garlic 30 gr 3 bay leaves Black pepper 1 gr Salt 2 gr 2 boiled eggs Parsley 5 gr

Method 1. Roast the cod slices with olive oil and crushed garlic for 15 minutes in the oven Temperature 110ºC 2. Remove the skin and bones from the cod and flake into large strips 3. Cut potatoes into slices and cook in olive oil with garlic and bay leaves 4. Cut the onions into slices and sauté with olive oil, garlic, bay leaves, black pepper, and salt. 5. Cook and slice two hard-boiled eggs Plating: • Make layers of roasted potatoes, sautéed onions, and sliced cod. • Finish with olives, sliced eggs, chopped parsley, garlic and olive oil. • Bake in the oven for 8 minutes • Serve very hot and enjoy Tip from Portugal: to add extra flavour, be generous with the oil and garlic.

BON APPÉTIT

Amêijoas à Bulhão Pato INGREDIENTS • • • • • •

Clams: 200 g (2 pax) Olive Oil: 40 gr Garlic: 7 grams Coriander: 7 gr Lemon Juice: 20 gr White wine: 30 gr

1. Soak the clams in a large bowl of water 2. Rinse thoroughly and several times in cold water to completely get rid of the sand 3. Slice the garlic and chop the coriander 4. Sauté the garlic in olive oil, add the coriander and the clams. Add white wine and cover until the clams are fully open (approximately 4/5 minutes). Plating: • Place the clams on the serving dish • Pour the sauce over the clams Tip from Portugal: to achieve the perfect harmony, serve with warm crusty bread Note: the clams can be prepared without wine by adding a small quantity of water.

158

June 2020

Tempura Cod Cake INGREDIENTS • • • • • • •

Codfish 200 gr Flour 80 gr Tempura 100 gr Raspberry powder 5 gr Garlic and mayo 10 gr Parsley 5 gr Sunflower oil (fry) 250 gr

Method 1. Cook the cod in water with parsley, garlic, and black pepper for 10 minutes 2. Remove the codfish 3. Cook the potatoes in the same water until they are fork-tender. Crush the potatoes lightly to obtain a paste (purée) 4. In a separate pan, sauté chopped onions and garlic with olive oil. Add the potato paste, the cod, and some fresh parsley. Add salt and grated black pepper to taste. 5. Add all the ingredients in small cake molds and place them into the freezer for one hour.

Massa de Tempura: INGREDIENTS • • • • • •

Water 150 gr Fresh yeast 5 gr Flour 300 gr Trisol 150 gr Salt 1 gr Sugar 1 gr

1. Dissolve yeast and sugar in warm water. 2. Add wheat flour, trisol, water, salt, sugar. Mix all the ingredients. 3. Place it in the refrigerator for a few minutes to keep it cold until you’re ready to deep-fry your tempura Final steps: • Mix the cod balls with flour and then with tempura. Fry at 180ºC for 5 minutes • Serve with garlic mayonnaise, chopped parsley, olives and raspberry powder.

BON APPÉTIT

160

Grilled Scarlet Shrimp, from Portugal with Tasca sauce & yuzu mayonnaise INGREDIENTS Serves 1 • Scarlet shrimp 6/8 • Tasca sauce • Fleur du sel • Basil leaves Tasca Sauce • Unsalted Butter • Chopped parsley • Sliced Red chilli • Lemon juice • Garlic sliced • Salt Yuzu mayonnaise • Egg yolk • Yuzu juice • Sunflower oil • Black Truffle Paste • Salt

130g 20g 2g 1g 1000g 50g 100g 100g 200g 2g 24g 10g 100ml 2g 2g

1. With a fish knife, slice the shrimp open and place on the grill until it is almost cooked. 2. Take the shrimp off the grill and finish by broiling in a salamander oven. 3. Finally, dress the shrimp with Tasca sauce topping it with fleur du sel. Tasca Sauce: 1. Add the butter to the pan and begin to sauté the garlic, 2. Once the butter is hot take the emulsion off the fire and finish by mixing in the parsley, salt and lemon juice. Yuzu Mayonnaise: 1. Add all the ingredients to a blender, pulsing for a few seconds. 2. Gradually add in the sunflower oil to achieve mayonnaise consistency. NOTE: Add some ice inside the blender to keep the mayonnaise cool while emulsifying.

June 2020

DINING

162

REFINED TASTE Experience a culinary journey with awardwinning and critically acclaimed restaurants from around the world.

INDOCHINE DUBAI Indochine, a French-Vietnamese eatery, has quickly established itself as Dubai’s latest dining hotspot, drawing the city’s most discerning diners. Often fully booked for dinner, Indochine now offers lunch bookings, enabling diners to choose from either the à la carte menu or their new business lunch menu. Available from Sunday to Thursday, the new three-course business lunch menu offers guests the choice of one salad, one signature Vietnamese roll dish, and one main course. Shaking Beef and Jungle Curry are just a few of the famed signature main dishes on offer, alongside summer vegetable rolls and the mouthwatering beef and papaya salad.

Alternatively, diners can choose to have a traditional beef pho bowl, which has been described by one food critic as “possibly the Middle East’s best”. Those who select the business lunch menu can also enjoy one of Indochine’s delectable desserts for an additional fee. Much like its New York counterpart, Indochine Dubai has been attracting the crème de la crème of the Dubai social scene along with a slew of international and local celebrities who regularly flock to immerse themselves in the eternally chic ambience. amazonicorestaurant.com

June 2020

02 01 Entrance of Indochine Dubai

04 Caramel Black Cod

02 Indochine has a reputation of being a celeb hotspot

05 Betel Leaf Beef

03 Beef Phõ

DINING

164

06, 09 Delectable gourmet offerings 08 The Sushi Banco 07, 10 Modern Japanese setting

June 2020

09 10

IYO AALTO MILAN IYO Aalto offers a taste of Japan in Milan, where the traditional cuisine of Tokyo embraces contemporary influences, and typical oriental settings espouse the allure of Milan’s skyline. Here, two distinct culinary concepts come to life, a Sushi Banco inspired by the Japanese tradition of edomae zushi, and a Gastronomic Restaurant. Designed by Italian architect Maurizio Lai, Iyo Aalto evokes the suggestions of the Rising Sun through a decisive sensibility, far from prevailing stereotypes and clichés. It’s the second restaurant to be opened by the group following the IYO Taste Experience, the only Japanese restaurant in Italy to have been awarded a Michelin star. The Sushi Banco is an intimate room where the nigiri are prepared in front of up to eight guests. The entrance wall is made with Brise Soleil in Canaletto walnut and allows a glimpse of both the internal environment and the lofty window. The counter is in Canaletto walnut, with worktop and plates in smooth gray-green porphyry, characterised by thin brass inlays. At the Gourmet Restaurant, which can accommodate 38 seats, the extraordinary heritage of Japanese cuisine is filtered by contemporary knowledge to offer an authentic and ambitious experience. The Canaletto walnut covers all the surfaces of the space, and the ceiling is embellished with lacunar sheets of float glass: a touch of lightness to rediscover the classic codes of coffered ceilings reinterpreted by Maurizio Lai according to a contemporary aesthetic. Between the Sushi Banco and the Gourmet Restaurant, a modular glass shelving holding ancient Sake barrels contributes handsomely to the permeability of the spaces. iyo.it

DINING

166

14, 15 Some of the delicious gourmet items available on the menu 16, 17 Fashionable interior 18 Only the freshest ingredients are used

14 15

June 2020

17 18

RØST MILAN Røst, a new restaurant in Milan designed by Vudafieri-Saverino Partners, offers simple and authentic cuisine and places the relationship with clients and food at its core. Located in the heart of the Milanese new food district in the Porta Venezia neighbourhood, this gourmet hub embraces the concept of no-waste cuisine, dishing up traditional Italian fare made with diverse meat cuts, forgotten foods, and peculiar vegetables. Developed over 65 square metres, the new locale is presented as a refined and intimate space, situated in what was once an auto parts store within an old-style palazzo. The tones are warm, dominated by “Marsala” red, a colour that harks back to the fundamental relationship with wine and land. The use of material is reduced to just a few basic types (lime, brass, oak) as if they were the ingredients of a recipe on the menu. The menu, which is updated daily according to the availability of ingredients, does away with order categories (starters, first courses, main courses, side dishes), preferring dishes to be shared freely. Small plates populate the table at random to encourage tasting and conviviality. Each menu features a serial number, testifying to the freshness of the selection. The restaurant appears divided into two sections: the principal hall rotating around the bar top, and a smaller area facing the kitchen, offering guests a front-row seat to watch the chefs at work. Near the entrance, a large wall is dedicated to the locale’s main stars -16 ceramic plates, each depicting a producer of ingredients for the restaurant. rostmilano.com

SPECIAL FEATURE

168

June 2020

Experiencing Greatness As the most powerful and dynamic RollsRoyce in history, the Wraith promises the sense of adventure and speed that characterized the iconic automaker’s founding forefather. With luxury, refinement, and quality as its starting point, its presence and prestige are unmistakable traits of the Rolls-Royce lineage. Durrah discovers all that the Wraith has to offer in a test drive that takes us to Bahrain’s most reputable destinations.

At the heart of Wraith lie hallmark Rolls-Royce attributes of luxury, refinement, and handcraftsmanship, but the model, from the world’s pinnacle super-luxury marque, also presents a unique character defined by power, style, and drama. With just a hint of the noir. Our test drive first took us to a place of equal stature in the luxury world: The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain. This luxury resort offers a secluded slice of paradise. Set along the bay in Seef, with a private lagoon and island, the resort provides guests with one temptation after another. Dining spans the globe, from Italy to India, the spa fuses traditional therapies and modern-day relaxation and beach time can transform into an afternoon of golf or tennis. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain, the Wraith

brought a new perspective to the word “Ritzy”. Truly, a marriage of luxury. In profile, Wraith’s sweeping fastback design gives the car its unique character. Bold lines, tension in the panels and a raked rear screen evoke the image of a world class athlete poised in the starting blocks. Further expression of dynamic intent can be seen in Wraith’s deeply recessed grille, wide rear track and dramatic two-tone presentation. Coach doors open to reveal a sumptuous interior complete with softest Phantom-grade leathers and expanses of wood called Canadel Panelling. Named after the famous cove in the South of France where Sir Henry Royce and his design and engineering teams spent their winters, this contemporary and tactile finish sweeps

SPECIAL FEATURE

170

01 The Wraith features the hallmark Rolls-Royce attributes of luxury, refinement, and hand craftsmanship 02 Advances in mechanical and electrical technology deliver systems like head-up display, adaptive headlights and Wraith’s keyless opening boot

through the interior, cosseting four occupants in a space bathed in light and warmth. The interior ambiance is complemented by Starlight Headliner, a Bespoke feature available beyond Phantom family cars for the first time. 1,340 fibre optic lamps are hand-woven into the roof lining to give the impression of a glittering, starry night sky. Our next stop was the prestigious Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay. Located on an exclusive island in the heart of the Kingdom’s capital, the landmark soars as a destination in its own right. Its cosmopolitan oasis combines the best of a beach holiday and an urban getaway. Along the island’s sun-drenched southern shore is a white sand beach leading to glistening turquoise waters. The Spa, cool and contemporary, expands in scale to encompass four interconnected buildings, woven together with pathways and gardens. This is where we discovered that the Wraith and the Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay had something in common: they both feature bold design and epitomize comfort to redefine the meaning of luxury. The Wraith offers a more polished, effortless driving experience and an even better response brings a new, more dynamic dimension to the famous Rolls-Royce trait, waftability. For over a century, a Rolls-Royce motor car has featured technologies designed to support occupants discreetly, delivering a peerless driving experience epitomized by the term ‘effortlessness’. In every Rolls-Royce, these assist the driver when called upon, but are prepared to return without fuss to the background when no longer required.

Advances in mechanical and electrical technology deliver systems like head-up display, adaptive headlights and Wraith’s keyless opening boot. But improvements in connectivity have taken the human-machine interface to a new level of sophistication, a suite of aids that could be likened to a contemporary on-board valet. Voice activation commands, for example, come with a one-touch call button located on the steering wheel. A destination no longer requires manual input from a navigation menu and route assistance begins immediately, on-screen and via audio guidance following a voice command. Additional improvements in communications come in the design and functionality of the elegant Spirit of Ecstasy Rotary Controller. This allows navigation through on-screen functions using a touch pad that features pinch and pull functionality to echo smart phone usage. Letters can also be ‘drawn’ onto the pad by hand rather than by scrolling through a series of available characters on-screen. Our final stop was at the Bahrain International Circuit (BIC). Dubbed the ‘Home of Motorsports in the Middle East’, the unique venue has been hosting the Formula One Grand Prix annually since 2004, making it the first ever track in the Middle East to host the Formula 1 World Championship. Every year, it transforms itself into a platform for motorsport enthusiasts and avid fans alike, who witness an epic display of mastery on the track. We wanted to test the true performance capabilities of the Wraith and BIC was exactly the place to be. Performance delivers on the promise of Wraith’s styling. Power delivery is effortless, but dramatic,

June 2020

SPECIAL FEATURE

172

June 2020

03 The Wraith adds a more dynamic dimension to waftability 04 Power, style, and drama 05 Power delivery is effortless, but dramatic thanks to a V12 engine married to 8-speed automatic ZF transmission

thanks to a V12 engine married to 8-speed automatic ZF transmission. 624 bhp / 465kW is available to the driver while the 0-60 mph sprint is achieved in 4.4 seconds, compared with 563 bhp / 420kW and 0-60 in 4.7 seconds for Ghost. From 1,500 rpm 800 Nm of torque is available (780 Nm for Ghost), while a wide rear track, shorter wheelbase and lower roof height further contribute to the most powerful, involving driving experience of any Rolls-Royce in history. The car’s suspension has also been tuned to minimise body roll and discreetly amplify feedback when cornering; while steering weight is heavier at high speeds and lighter at low speeds adding to the spirited drive. However, Wraith is no GT bruiser. Agility

improvements have been achieved with absolutely no compromise to the sensation of riding on a bed of air. Furthermore, the debut of Satellite Aided Transmission (SAT) technology takes the powertrain to a new level of effortless delivery, one that perfectly suits the Rolls-Royce brand. Satellite Aided Transmission uses GPS data to see beyond what the driver sees; it anticipates his next move based on location and current driving style, then selects the most appropriate gear for the terrain ahead. Corners, motorway junctions and roundabouts are all anticipated in advance meaning Wraith is constantly poised to deliver on its promise of performance. rolls-roycemotorcars.com

SPECIAL FEATURE

174

June 2020

“The Wraith offers a more polished,

effortless driving experience and an even better response brings a new, more dynamic dimension to the famous Rolls-Royce trait, waftability.”

SPECIAL FEATURE

176

June 2020

06 624 bhp delivers a 0-60 mph sprint in 4.4 seconds 07 1,340 fibre optic lamps are hand-woven into the roof lining to give the impression of a glittering, starry night sky 08 The Wraith lives up to the promises of the iconic RollsRoyce marque 09 The Wraith offers a more polished, effortless driving experience

SPECIAL FEATURE

178

Best of Both Worlds Durrah explores the INFINITI Q60 Coupe and QX80 Limited, two of the luxury brand’s standout models, each offering an exceptional experience for a unique type of audience.

June 2020

We here at Durrah have always been longtime admirers of INFINITI. Combining luxury with performance has been a main trait of the automaker, while each model presented its own identity, catering to different segments of the market. The Q60 Coupe and the QX80 Limited are perfect examples of INFINITI’s approach. Geared more towards a youthful audience, the Q60 is a driver centric, passenger minded Coupe with powerful elegance and striking performance. The driver enjoys a totally in-control experience in the high-back, high-bolster seats that are designed to lower the load on the spine and support the shoulders. The exterior’s flowing sculptural lines and strong, muscular proportions communicate dynamism, representing a daring visual expression of the car’s performance.

The INFINITI Q60 Red Sport 400 ensures that its speed and power are well felt with its 3.0-liter V6 twin-turbo engine. Generating a staggering 400hp, the Q60 engine is designed to offer enhanced performance while maintaining high levels of efficiency. The steering wheel is sleeker and more performance based than ever, ensuring flawless drivability that triggers the senses. The driver gets to choose from seven personalized modes to customize steering performance according to their preferred driving style. The Q60 features specially designed 19-inch aluminium alloy wheels as standard. The ‘Red Sport 400’ models – more performance-oriented versions of the car – have wider wheels and tires at the rear, contributing to a more aggressive stance while also improving handling and grip with a

SPECIAL FEATURE

180

01 The Q60 (right) and QX80 each offer unique driving experiences 02 The QX80 SUV combines reliable performance with comfort and safety 03 The elegant Q60 looking right at home in front of the prestigious Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay 02

June 2020

higher capacity for lateral G-forces. The incredible Studio on Wheels INFINITI audio system features three woofers that create an immersive experience with deep frequencies brought to life. Working with acoustic glass and noise cancelling technology, the system replicates the richness of live performances. Meanwhile, the QX80 provides an experience on the other side of the spectrum. The SUV combines reliable performance with high levels of comfort and safety to create the essential family vehicle. Powered by a 5.6L V8 engine producing 428 HP, the QX80 has four driving modes, providing secure traction at all times. What’s more, thanks to the latest in premium comfort and technology, including Active Noise Cancellation to reduce driver fatigue during the long stretches between sites;

NASA-inspired ergonomic seating; and the Around Vehicle Monitor, a 360-degree overhead view to help avoid rocks, ruts and encounters with wildlife, the QX80 Limited is truly limitless. The exterior and interiors of the upgraded QX80 have also been refreshed to take INFINITI’s ‘powerful elegance’ form applied to a new scale, representing an evolution in design from the original. With sharper, thinner tail-lamps, straight and more angular character lines for bodywork, as well as light units and a raised lower bumper section, the QX80 Limited appears wider, taller and more athletic than its predecessor. The extended hood also creates a more squared-off, vertical front section whilst large, functional fender vents maximize air delivery to the engine.

SPECIAL FEATURE

182

June 2020

04 The interior of the Q60 is the true meaning of luxury

05 The sleek Q60 embodies INFINITI’s approach to design and performance 06 Spacious interior of the QxX80 07 The Q60 comes with 19-inch aluminium alloy wheels as standard

The interiors are a modern interpretation of upscale luxury, with a spacious and luxurious premium cabin handcrafted in quality materials including perforated and quilted leather. Rear entertainment is more connected than ever, featuring larger high-resolution screens in the headrests and dedicated headphones, whilst ergonomic improvements give occupants more storage space, including a larger smartphone and tablet stowing area in the center console. INFINITI’s InTouch infotainment system has also been updated, allowing drivers to personalize driving characteristics and the cabin environment. infiniti-me.com

“The Q60 features specially

designed 19-inch aluminium alloy wheels as standard.”

AUTOMOTIVE

184

June 2020

Driven by Luxury

The latest from the world’s top luxury automotive manufacturers.

AUTOMOTIVE

01 The all-new Aston Martin DBS Superleggera ‘Arabesque’

186

02 The striking model is a unique specification crafted exclusively for the Middle East 03 Duotone interior complete with bespoke design and materials

June 2020

Aston Martin DBS Superleggera ‘Arabesque’

04 04 Arabesque quilt pattern on the seats and head rests 05 The DBS Superleggera Arabesque showcases ‘Q by Aston Martin’, the ultimate bespoke personalisation service

Aston Martin MENA has commissioned a unique specification called DBS Superleggera ‘Arabesque’, which has been exclusively created for the Middle East region to pay tribute to Arabian art and design. Showcasing new Arabic details and featuring lavish personalisation via Aston Martin’s bespoke service ‘Q by Aston Martin’, the Aston Martin DBS Superleggera Arabesque proudly incorporates traditional Middle Eastern elements within its signature design codes. The DBS Superleggera Arabesque features a carefully judged selection of interior and exterior design and trim modifications. The specification features bespoke materials such as camel hair and silk, as well as unique inlaid Arabesque patterned carbon fibre throughout. The exterior is finished in rich Royal Indigo, setting a stunning contrast to any typical Middle Eastern vista. The patterned carbon fibre roof, front splitter, diffuser and rear spoiler unite to

seamlessly enhance the DBS Superleggera’s refined lines. The Aston Martin wings are crafted in black enamel, each crafted by hand during a twentyhour process. The duotone interior in Indigo & Coral Sand Bridge of Weir leather™ delivers an exquisite finish and the Arabesque pattern carries throughout with the quilt pattern on the roof headlining, the seats and head rests, which also feature embroidered Aston Martin wings. This is supported by the supreme performance of the DBS Superleggera - the brand’s 5.2-litre twin-turbo V12-engined Super GT flagship boasting 725 PS, 900 Nm of torque, a top speed of 338kph and blistering acceleration that dispatches 0-100 kph in just 3.4 seconds. The striking Arabesque specification will be introduced to more Aston Martin models in the future - including the new DBX SUV. astonmartin.com

AUTOMOTIVE

188

BMW 8 Series Gran Coupe A four-door sports car has been added to the new BMW 8 Series range. With its standalone body concept, plus powertrain and chassis technology designed squarely to engender supreme dynamic ability, the new BMW 8 Series Gran Coupe embodies a brand of sporting flair unique in the luxury segment. Joining the BMW 8 Series Coupe and BMW 8 Series Convertible as the third model in the 8 Series range, the Gran Coupe has a character all of its own, combining smile-inducing performance and design shaped by dynamism and elegance with significantly increased spaciousness for passengers in the rear seats. Meanwhile, exclusive equipment features and the latest innovations in the areas of control/operation, driver assistance and connectivity represent a case study in modern luxury. The new BMW 8 Series Gran Coupe is the only model in its segment derived directly from a twodoor sports car. Its resultant dynamic potential, plus a longer wheelbase and model-specific chassis tuning, create an unmistakable balance between sports performance and ride comfort. All of which means 8 Series Gran Coupe customers can look forward to high levels of everyday practicality and mile-covering ability. Four model variants are available from launch. The BMW M850i xDrive Gran Coupe is powered by a V8 petrol engine which delivers its 390 kW/530 hp in imposing style. The BMW 840d xDrive Gran Coupe underscores the four-door model’s qualities as a consummate longdistance machine with its 235 kW/320 hp sixcylinder in-line diesel engine. And the BMW 840i Gran Coupe and BMW 840i xDrive Gran Coupe enjoy the services of a high-revving six-cylinder in-line petrol engine with maximum output of 250 kW/340 hp. The combination of precisely drawn lines and expansive surfaces that runs like a thread through the BMW brand’s new design language helps the exterior of the new BMW 8 Series Gran Coupe to strike a unique balance between dynamism and elegance. The four-door coupe concept has been translated into a body of standout pomp and progressiveness.

The distinctive style of the new BMW 8 Series Gran Coupe is also expressed in the design of its interior. The driving experience in both the front and rear is defined by a flawless symbiosis of dynamism and luxury. The extra length of the wheelbase and generously sized door apertures give passengers in the rear unprecedented legroom for a BMW coupe – and they are able to get in and out more easily than ever as well. Those in the rear seats also benefit from substantially greater shoulder room and headroom than in the two-door version of the new BMW 8 Series, making the second-row seats even more comfortable to travel in. The imposing power delivery of the 4.4-litre V8 engine in the new BMW M850i xDrive Gran Coupe is accompanied by a character-rich soundtrack further amplified by the M Sport exhaust system. With its maximum output of 390 kW/530 hp and peak torque of 750 Nm (553 lb-ft), the new V8 engine in the BMW M850i xDrive Gran Coupe accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 3.9 seconds. Thrilling instant response and an unmistakable appetite for revs are the signature character traits of the new six-cylinder in-line petrol engine fitted in the BMW 840i Gran Coupe and BMW 840i xDrive Gran Coupe models. It produces maximum output of 250 kW/340 hp and torque peaking at 500 Nm (369 lb-ft). The 3.0-litre unit with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology weighs in at around six kilograms less than the engine it replaces and makes its mark with noticeably enhanced elasticity throughout the rev range. The new BMW 840i Gran Coupe powers from rest to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 5.2 seconds, the new BMW 840i xDrive Gran Coupe in 4.9 seconds. The unprecedented presence of a diesel engine in this segment makes it possible to combine sporting qualities with outstanding long-distance capability. bmw-me.com

June 2020

06 Dynamic and luxurious interior 07 The new V8 engine accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.9 seconds 08 The exterior features precisely drawn lines and expansive surfaces 09 The new BMW 8 Series Gran Coupe embodies a brand of sporting flair unique in the luxury segment

AUTOMOTIVE

190

June 2020

10 11

12 10 The remarkably pure Phantom 11 Exceptionally luxurious interior

12 Trademark Rolls-Royce design language 13 22-inch alloy wheels complete the distinguished look of the Phantom

Rolls-Royce Phantom The first Rolls-Royce to be built on the new Architecture of Luxury, the New Phantom is a contemporary interpretation of the Phantom DNA, delivering new levels of iconic presence and an increased elegance of line suggesting both poise and stability at speed and an unrushed Grand Arrival. On first glance the New Phantom is remarkable in its purity. Thanks to the new Architecture of Luxury and new engineering processes, the precision body joining process ensures there are few, if any, visible join lines between body panels, giving New Phantom the appearance of being hewn from a solid block of aluminium. It is truly a triumph of design and engineering departments working hand in hand to create a beautiful masterpiece. Its opening gesture immediately demonstrates a radical contemporiation of Phantom, through the reimagining of the Pantheon grille at the heart of the design. The strong portrait grille is raised higher than that of Phantom VII, also resulting in a positioning of the Spirit of Ecstasy approximately a half inch higher. However, unlike 103EX and all previous Phantoms, New Phantom’s grille is integrated into the surrounding bodywork. The resulting effect is a cleaner, reduced design with modernity and clarity, allowing all New Phantom’s lines to connect with this

iconic statement of power and flow from it. In addition, a purposeful headlamp graphic gives a confident and focused expression with fresh, frosted internals that feel open and optimistic, whilst accommodating an expressive ring of daytime driving lights and the most advanced laserlight system of any motor car that at night casts light 600 metres down the road. This flow is achieved through the handcrafting of beautiful, authentic materials and subtle creases in the bodywork. The key front to rear line begins inboard from the top edge of the grille moving outwards along the body to the rear, lending a sense of dynamism to New Phantom, while the front wing line fades just after the door handle suggesting pace and fluidity. The grille itself is created from hand-polished stainless steel, a material that highlights the precious and timeless nature of this New Phantom and its modern architecture through the use of a visually warm and highly tactile material. Emanating from the upper tips of the grille, the polished stainless steel strips curve along the upper edges of the bonnet and around the windscreen, accentuating the length of the bonnet and seamlessly blending the cabin to the lower volume as though swept by the wind.

From the side, New Phantom has the iconic 2:1 proportions that have endeared so many to every generation of Phantom, featuring a short front and long rear overhang, an upright front and a flowing rear. The rear lines of the car in side view circle forward to the waft line and lead the eye back through the front wheel. The largest single-piece of hand-polished stainless steel on any motor car is the side frame finisher of New Phantom. It beautifully accentuates the elegant stance of the car and with a rounded softer feel, preserves the iconic wide C-pillar for privacy, while allowing the eye to transition easily to the rear. Furthermore, a single polished stainless steel strip is placed on the sill of the Phantom Extended Wheelbase to differentiate it. The final visual expression of Phantom is its wheels, which of course conform to the golden mean of Rolls-Royce design proportion. Essential to providing the sensation of flight on land, the largest high-value alloy wheel ever employed on a RollsRoyce is offered. At 22-inches, the diameter when shod in Rolls-Royce’s Seal Technology Tyres’ delivers a Magic Carpet Ride never experienced in a RollsRoyce before. cadillacarabia.com

AUTOMOTIVE

192

June 2020

MINI 5 Door Hatch The new MINI 5 Door Hatch is the latest addition to the iconic British marque’s line up of sleek and stylish models, strengthening the character of its offerings in the small car segment. With its refined visual appearance, technological advancements, and innovative upgrades this model is out to impress. The model is now available for the first time with three body types due to a host of new elements, including the new engine-transmission combinations, an extended range of standard features, newly designed headlights and rear lights, additional body finishes, and cutting-edge connectivity technology. A modified design for the characteristic circular headlights makes the hallmark front view of the new MINI 5 door more expressive. In the standard halogen headlights, a striking accentuation is added through a black panel. In the LED headlights, available as optional equipment items, the high-quality technology is underscored by an entirely new design of the light sources. The rear lights also appear in a Union Jack design that references the brand’s British origins. There are three variants of body finishes for the new model and a wider selection of colours, including Emerald Grey metallic, Starlight Blue metallic, and

Solaris Orange metallic. Moreover, the long list of available options ensures that this model is ripe for customisation. The MINI Yours Customised programme includes retrofit products that customers can design themselves such as side scuttles, decorative strips for the interior on the passenger side, LED door sill finishers, and LED door projectors. The 3-cylinder petrol engines of the MINI One First and the MINI One now draw their power from a capacity of 1.5 litres. This increases maximum torque by 10 Nm, taking it to 160 and 190 Nm respectively. Also, all petrol engines feature petrol direct injection with the maximum pressure increased from 200 to 350 bar and turbocharger blades made of highly heat-resilient material. As an alternative to the standard 6-speed manual transmission, a 7-speed Steptronic transmission with double clutch is optionally available for the MINI One, MINI Cooper, MINI Cooper S and MINI Cooper D. The new transmission is characterised by fast gearshifts that enable sporty acceleration without torque interrupt. Meanwhile, the MINI Cooper SD now comes with an 8-speed Steptronic transmission as standard.

The newly designed three-spoke steering wheel in the MINI 5 door features multifunction buttons that offer greater control. Drivers can activate the Speed Limit Device to set a maximum speed and control audio and communication without having to take their hands off the wheel. The standard trim includes an audio system with 6.5-inch colour screen in the central stack and mobile phone integration via Bluetooth. The Control Display offers a touchscreen function in conjunction with the optional Radio MINI Visual Boost and a navigation system. Other available equipment for the new MINI 5 door includes telephony with a wireless charging option. MINI Connected seamlessly integrates drivers’ smartphones, various smartphone apps, and the MINI Connected app with the vehicle. So drivers have new ways of interacting with the car, including smart voice control and remote services. All this, plus smart navigation that learns frequently visited destinations, considers real-time traffic information and gets drivers from A to B more effectively. https://www.mini-bahrain.com/en_BH/home.html

15 14, 15, 16, 17 F55 MINI 5 Door Hatch in Emerald Grey Metallic

SPECIAL FEATURE

194

CREATIVE flair Internationally recognised atelier Fornasetti is showcasing its creativity at the recently inaugurated Fornasetti Theatrum Mundi exhibition, housed in the Complesso Monumentale della Pilotta in Parma. The exhibition is open to the public until February 14, 2021, and is part of Revitalisations of the Contemporary, an initiative to mark Parma 2020+21, Italian Capital of Culture. Billed as a journey between the past and present, the exhibition has generated great expectations among the public, the press, and enthusiasts. Curated by Barnaba Fornasetti, Artistic Director of the Milanese atelier, Valeria Manzi, co-curator of cultural activities and President of the Fornasetti Cult association, and Simone Verde, the director of the Complesso Monumentale della Pilotta, the exhibition aims to renew the classical heritage of the independent museum institute of Parma. A network of iconographic references and cultural suggestions reveals the intellectual mandate of the objects and images on display, highlighting their depth and universal implications. The exhibition’s itinerary is divided into cells relating to the main themes of Fornasetti’s work: ruins and the use of the past as a fragment, architecture, music, drawing, graphics, collecting, everyday objects, and the dimension of illusion and dreams. The exhibition begins with the 21 windows inside the Galleria Petitot of the Biblioteca Palatina. It then enters the heart of the Teatro Farnese, a masterpiece of seventeenth-century architecture built inside the Complex on the model of the Vitruvian theatre. This is the same architectural structure that inspired the idea of the Theatrum Mundi, formulated by the Neoplatonic rhetorician

June 2020

SPECIAL FEATURE

Giulio Camillo. Camillo’s utopia involved figures and symbols arranged in a precise order within the Vitruvian theatre. Fornasetti’s objects establish a profound dialogue with the spaces of the Pilotta, echoing their associations with culture, thought, dream, and imagination. Following the path traced by these elective affinities, the exhibition disseminates hundreds of works by the atelier around the collections of the Pilotta, accompanied by short texts by Piero and Barnaba Fornasetti and selected quotes from other authors that provide suggestions and interpretations. Fornasetti is renowned for the design and decoration of timeless pieces of furniture and accessories. It was founded in Milan in the 1950s by Piero Fornasetti, an eclectic artist distinguished by an unstoppable creative flair that made him one of the most prolific figures of twentieth-century Italy.

196

Barnaba Fornasetti has led the brand over the last 30 years with unconventional choices that have guided it to a newfound vitality. To this day, the Fornasetti dream remains unchanged; to endow everyday objects with cultural value and an artistic message. Over the course of its history, Fornasetti has created a visual language, unique in its refined artistic lines, characterised by humour, nostalgia, metaphor, and allusions. Everything is still made by hand in limited annual editions and the different phases of the production cycle ensure that each item is unique. Alongside the production of objects, Fornasetti now also conceives and curates cultural initiatives, which represent a fundamental part of the brand’s identity, values, and the role it wants to play in today’s society. fornasetti.com

June 2020

MUST HAVE - MEN

My Wish List The latest and most exclusive luxury items for men

Berluti Buggy In a perfect blend of technical simplicity and artisanal know-how, Berluti has developed a beach Buggy that pays homage to the rebellious and carefree lifestyle of 1960’s Southern California. Featuring an open-wheeled fiberglass bodyshell coupled with a Volkswagen Beetle flat-four air-cooled engine, it is ideal for scouring sand dunes and beaches in search for the perfect surf spot. Bespoke handcrafted details on the leather dashboard, steering wheel, gear lever and the seats add the finishing touches. This iconic and timeless classic can be personalised to suit the owner’s taste and is available exclusively by special order. berluti.com

198

June 2020

Berluti SIGNATURE Canvas This season, Berluti presents SIGNATURE – the maison’s first patterned canvas created by Kris Van Assche. Printed over a black background in shades of slate and lead grey reminiscent of the Parisian landscape, SIGNATURE is made in a textured coated fabric that resists everyday use, and completed with Berluti’s trademark finishing, including leather details topped off with bootmaker studs that bring a metallic sparkle to each piece. This new collection offers a variety of briefcases, cross-body bags, clutches, totes, backpacks and a sailor bag. berluti.com

M.A.D.Gallery x Avionics VM Electric Bike The Avionics VM is a jaw dropping handmade electric bike inspired by 1930s aircraft and motorcycle design whose unparalleled spirit is sure to turn heads. With its state-of-the-art technology, including ergonomic seat, 5,000 watt electric motor and multiple street modes, it disrupts the standard notion of riding a bike and makes it a pleasure to ride on any terrain. Jatoba wood and leather straps enhance the visual appeal while the vintage look is completed with spoked wheels with vintage-style tires. Created exclusively for the M.A.D.Gallery, the AVIONICS VM is limited to 52 electric bikes, numbered accordingly, each arriving with a certificate of authenticity. madgallery.net

MUST HAVE - MEN

200

June 2020

MÜHLE SOPHIST Shaving Set Elevating the shaving experience into a gloriously indulgent ritual, the MÜHLE SOPHIST shaving set is a celebration of traditional Rasurkultur. Made from solid horn, each horn-tip handle is forged meticulously by a turner and finely polished. The silvertip fibre head provides a vegan, lower maintenance product that emulates all the benefits of a premium natural hair brush. Soft on the skin and producing a thick and creamy lather, it guarantees a gentle and pleasant experience. The razor is a true investment piece, offering a precision shave and designed to be an instant classic. muehle-shaving.co.uk

Porcshe Shisha 2.1 Black Porsche Design reimagines the iconic Shisha 2.1 with a brand-new special edition in black. The inimitable silhouette with its distinct, minimalist design is visually captivating, while the high end materials deliver an exceptional user experience every time. Details in black anodized-aluminum paired with a massive, hand blown, dark glass vase ensure an elevated look of the 73-centimeter-high water pipe. Both a hand-worked leather hose and tobacco head, made of heat-resistant ceramic, enhance the high-quality workmanship featured throughout. www.porsche-design.com

Tiffany Everyday Objects Collection Tiffany artisans transform utilitarian items into handcrafted works of art for a special touch of luxury with these 3 collectible items. The Sterling Silver Domino Set, featuring warm, stained American walnut is a charming contrast to shining sterling silver in this domino set, which includes 28 dominos. The Tiffany Walnut Tic Tac Toe Set features a polished American walnut board with gleaming sterling silver inlay and pieces made from sterling silver and Amazonite, this is a delightful gift for others or oneself. The Tiffany Wood Pool Triangle and Ball Set, a modern upgrade on the classic design, comes with a pool triangle intricately crafted in oak with a removable sterling silver plate for personalization, while the custom-made Tiffany Blue ® pool balls feature a sleek typewriter font. tiffany.com

Espresso Veloce RS Black Edition This supercar-inspired ground coffee and capsule type espresso maker from Super Veloce takes your morning coffee to a whole new level. Paying a tribute to the last modern classic 993 air-cooled flat-six engines that were raced competitively, Espresso Veloce RS Black Edition is the perfect combination of both elegance and muscle, all packed in one luxurious espresso machine. The RS Black Edition is a more aggressive, more masculine allblack version of the popular Flat Six model, handcrafted from the finest aerospace-grade material such as surgical stainless steel, aluminum alloy, titanium, and carbon fiber. Only 993 units will be manufactured for Porsche fanatics and coffee addicts globally. superveloce.co

MUST HAVE - MEN

202

Versace Embroidered Logo Baroque Bathrobe Bath time just got a lot more stylish! Featuring a faint textural Versace logo print and accented by a Barocco printed sleeve and wrap belt, this soft, 100 percent cotton bathrobe exudes luxury. A golden embroidered Versace logo on the back adds a final iconic touch to make you feel like royalty. Don’t be surprised if you never want to take it off! versace.com

Fornasetti Facciata Quattrosentesca Sofa The Facciata Quattrocentesca sofa combines the subtle geometry of classical Fornasetti architecture with highly contemporary color combinations. Geometrical rigor and color effects are connected by an authorial style that brings unusual accents to any corner of the home. The minimalistic striped black on teal iron structure is paired with two fabric options in the signature Facciata Quattrocentesca print. fornasetti.com

June 2020

MUST HAVE - WOMEN

My Wish List The latest and most exclusive luxury items for women

204

Dior Vespa Scooter Dior joins forces with Vespa to create an exclusive scooter and a range of matching accessories, celebrating the sunny-spirit and art of living of the two houses. Recognized for its elegant, streamlined curves, the scooter is made in Italy, adhering to the exacting standards, commitment and precision of a couture atelier. Echoing the design of the saddle, a top case patterned with the Dior Oblique motif is specially designed to be fixed on the luggage rack, adding a distinctive allure. A helmet adorned with the same iconic motif rounds out the unique range. dior.com

June 2020

Jihan C Bookmark Lebanese-Canadian architect and designer has launched a stunning collection of 24 karat gold plated bookmarks which showcase the heritage of the Middle East and the Arab world. Ideal as a souvenir or a gift for any occasion, the bookmarks come in an elegant package of recycled paper. The Jihan C bookmark is available in more than 10 architectural designs. jihanc.com

Fornasetti Facciata Quattrocentesca Coffee Cups Set Add a touch of luxury to your coffee break with this new collection of hand decorated porcelain coffee cups from the atelier of Fornasetti. The creative insight behind the new collection is a series of unpublished drawings and writings by Piero Fornasetti, recently discovered in the Fornasetti archive. Attention to detail meets high craftsmanship, giving life to truly artistic creations. fornasetti.com

MUST HAVE - WOMEN

206

Henry Jacques Royal Cabinet Henry Jacques is reviving a sense of grandeur and historic rituals within the realm of French Haute Parfumerie with its Royal Cabinet, a meticulously hand-crafted chest designed to house a personal assortment of perfumes. An immaculate accessory for the collector of fine scents, the Royal Cabinet can be filled with either 28 or 45 crystal flacons containing 15ml of essence from the heart of the Henry Jacques collection: its fifty ‘Les Classiques’. Selecting the perfumes – that are a culmination of the Maison’s years of immense know-how – to fill within the cabinet is a real pleasure, allowing one to compose a perfume wardrobe that truly encapsulates ‘you’. parfumshenryjacques.com

Lanvin Print Wallet This multicolored wallet featuring Lanvin Faoubourg Saint-Honoré print motifs is an instant mood booster and an ultra-stylish way of organizing your cash and cards. Made of soft calfskin and a brass side clasp, it is can easily be attached to your other bags and is practical for everyday use. lanvin.com

June 2020

Herend Waterfowls Green Limited Edition Tea Set A master painter’s exquisite work of art is immortalized in this fine china tea set from Herend. The inspiration for the special lakeside scene came from the Herend Porcelain Museum, in which cranes appear as dominant motifs, as a symbol of longevity, vigilance, wisdom, and loyalty. Only 25 set of this exceptional masterpiece have been produced, making it a highly coveted prize. herend.com

LOEWE x Smiley® Bag The Smiley® drop of Paula’s Ibiza 2020 features the joyous, sunny circle that is the Smiley® — popping out in neon on basket bags. A small-sized, classic Basket bag, handwoven in palm leaf with a calfskin top handle and neon calfskin Smiley® patch on the exterior, it can be worn with an added LOEWE pouch inside. A perfect pick for the summer, it is an invitation to smile together to brighter days ahead. loewe.com

MUST HAVE - WOMEN

208

Versace Jungle Print Bathrobe Whether you’re by the poolside, at the spa or at home, this robe is the ultimate depiction of luxury and comfort. Crafted from soft cotton, this bathrobe boasts the iconic Jungle print while the sleeves and the wrap belt feature printed Medusa and Barocco accents. versace.com

Saha Collection Earrings Middle Eastern jewelry designer Sahar Barati unveils her collection, Saha, which means ‘blessed’. A shimmering, sparkling collection of precious metals and stones all creatively crafted to showcase the traditional elements of the Middle Eastern culture, the Saha line is inspired by the natural world. Sahar BMD is a free-spirited brand dedicated to empowering women who value elegance, artistry and creativity. saharbmd.com

June 2020

+973 77033333

lavazzabahrain

BOOK REVIEW

210

ALULA

Take an epic journey through the remarkable oasis known as AlUla, a spectacular landscape nestled deep within the ancient sands of northwest Saudi Arabia.

June 2020

The history of the vast and fruitful valley of AlUla, also known as Wadi al-Qura (Valley of Villages), can be traced back to the Paleolithic period, around 200,000 BCE, when humans first settled there, to the modern populations who explore it today. Presented in all its stark beauty, AlUla leads readers through this beautiful land’s rugged mountains and striking canyons, a fertile valley that formed a natural passage for caravans and travellers on the incense trade route, with plentiful groundwater and soil that allowed many civilizations to thrive for thousands of years. Each page delves into this land’s ancient mystique while highlighting the people who have also left their powerful mark on the land. From prehistoric huntergatherers, to the Dadanites, the Nabataeans, the

Romans, early Muslims, to present-day populations who have mingled and exchanged cultural ideas, AlUla is filled with countless traces of age-old sites, languages, culture, and economic prosperity. Robert Polidori began his career in the mid1980s, when he photographed the Restoration of Versailles, and he has since documented sites across the globe. He has twice won the Alfred Eisenstaedt Award for Magazine Photography, he has published over a dozen photo books, he has had major solo exhibitions in important galleries, and his work is held in the collections of many prominent museums around the world. Available in Ultimate and XXL formats, this oversize luxury volume is a true historic treasure of human milestones and natural wonders, sharing the majesty of AlUla.

BOOK REVIEW

212

June 2020

Each page delves into this land’s ancient mystique while highlighting the people who have also left their powerful mark on the land.”

Seef Mall +973 1758 1911

sporthorizons

together, we elevate your business with stc AgileWAN, gain valuable insights & better control to manage your network operations

Take control of a faster, simpler, smarter way to connect with stc AgileWAN and reach your optimum network and application performance. stc AgileWAN is a Managed SD-WAN (Software Defined Wide Area Network) service that enables the digital transformation of your IT and data communications plane by simplifying the network management functions, optimizing application visibility and control and ensuring end-to-end secure connectivity across branches. Features & benefits: • Faster Deployment • Visibility, Control & Online Portal • Managed Service • Backup Wireless Connection • 24/7 Support • Comprehensive Reporting Contact your dedicated Account Manager or email us on business@stc.com.bh or WhatsApp us on 35128128

35128128

stc

.com.bh/business

email us on business@stc.com.bh