Durrah Issue 22

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Contents

TO BREAK THE RULES, YOU MUST FIRST MASTER THEM. THE WATCH THAT BROKE ALL THE RULES, REBORN FOR 2012. IN 1972, THE ORIGINAL ROYAL OAK SHOCKED THE WATCHMAKING WORLD AS THE FIRST HAUTE HOROLOGY SPORTS WATCH TO TREAT STEEL AS A PRECIOUS METAL. TODAY THE NEW ROYAL OAK COLLECTION STAYS TRUE TO THE SAME PRINCIPLES SET OUT IN LE BRASSUS ALL THOSE YEARS AGO: “BODY OF STEEL, HEART OF GOLD”.

OVER 130 YEARS OF HOROLOGICAL CRAFT, MASTERY AND EXQUISITE DETAILING LIE INSIDE THIS ICONIC MODERN EXTERIOR; THE ALWAYS PURPOSEFUL ROYAL OAK ARCHITECTURE NOW EXPRESSED IN 41MM DIAMETER. THE AUDEMARS PIGUET ROYAL OAK: CELEBRATING 40 YEARS.

ROYAL OAK IN STAINLESS STEEL. CHRONOGRAPH.

JE T SE T COLLEC TION

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he full range of Shaik Perfume Creations are now available in 30 ml travel

sizes. These delightful miniatures are the perfect accessory for the world traveller and complement Designer Shaik Limited Edition accessories beautifully. These are an addition to our award winning collection of fragrances for men and women.

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he Palace of Fashion is in the final stages of producing the first in its Jewelessence Blue range of beautifully crafted leather handbags with a trend setting design unique to

our brand. The Shaik and his team looked to the numerous royal conservatories and nature reserves throughout the region for inspiration. With experimentation in tanneries around the world he has now obtained the exact high quality of leather he set out to achieve. The time and patience spent on research and development has rewarded us with a beautiful product that will take pride of place in our accessories collection and be recognised by all as a distinctive and desirable addition to the luxury world of Designer Shaik.

AstroTime

ASTROLABE OF MOMENTS IN TIME U NISEX ED IT IO N AU TO MATI C & Q UA R TZ

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The romantic history of Delmon inspires a precision instrument of today

any enlightened scholars and historians agree that the Garden of Eden was probably located in, what is today, Designer Shaik’s desert kingdom. From the battlements

of his Palace of Horology, Designer Shaik can gaze across the sands and see the ancient and enigmatic Tree of Life. The Shaik issues from one of the oldest civilisations in Arabia and the World. His favourite, most inspirational time of day is sunset; an astrolabe more than 1,000 years old can tell him at precisely which minute the sun will sink beneath the western horizon on any given day. He derives his huge intellectual energy and unflagging creative impetus from this knowledge. The beautiful and ingenious watches boast many unique and intriguing features and the intricately detailed patterns on the face are a visual expression of the complexities that lie beneath. This fascinating collection of different movements and sophistication is a luxury timepiece for generations to come.

2014

New Designer Shaik Creations The ultimate accessory for the most discerning of clientele

One step ahead Of

the fUtURe.

CADILLAC XTS A car with so much vision, it captures mapping software and scans each one to help alert you to potential danger. It’s foresight at the forefront of safety. Watch the Cadillac XTS bring the future forward at cadillacarabia.com

cadillacarabia.com

Facebook.com/CadillacArabia

Twitter.com/CadillacArabia

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Contents Editorial Editor in Chief Khalid Ahmed Juman Features Editor Laura Templeton Art Art Director Geir C. Erdal Marketing and Sales Media Manager Hussain Al Zaimoor Production Production Support Thomas Kuttiyil

Volume 06 Issue 02 Winter 2013

IT support Digital Manager Hussain Al Anjawi Published by

008 First Impression Word from Durrah’s Editor-in-Chief

012 Her Royal Highness Princess Sabeeka Bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa Celebrating the work of Bahrain’s First Lady

020 Bahrain International Airshow Interview with H.E. Kamal Ahmed, Minister of Transport

026 The Man who saved Ferrari Durrah chats with Luca di Montezemolo

032 Diamond Dream Pascal Mouawad visits Bahrain’s Jewellery Arabia

036 Elevated Design

Hermès’ first flying tourbillon watch – the Arceau Lift

040 Measuring the Mysterious

Maurice Lacroix unveils the Masterpiece Seconde Mystérieuse

044 The Bee of Guerlain 160th anniversary of the brand’s iconic Bee bottle

050 Intelligence in their Hands The Poltrona Frau Museum in Tolentino

054 Passions of a Desert Prince Uncovering the secrets of Designer Shaik

060 The Glass of Kings

Interview with Antonín Vlk, Chairman of Moser Glassworks

066 Flourishing Flowers

Jeff Leatham’s work at the Four Seasons Hotel George V

070 Here comes the Bride Rami Al Ali’s new bridal collection

074 Crystal Couture Swarovski teams up with six GCC Abaya designers

078 B is for Baylee Chloé’s new alphabetised bag line

082 On the Black Canvas Interview with Impressionist Alexandr Onishenko

088 Eloquent Expressions Hassan Massoudy’s calligraphy of the Arabic word

092 Art from the Orient The Galerie Alhambra’s Orientalist Paintings and Sculptures

PO Box 10013, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain T. +973 77022222 F. +973 77022221

096 Picture Perfect Exclusive chat with photographer Tariq Dajani

102 All About Chocolate La Maison du Chocolat comes to Dubai

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106 Best Boutiques Sort out your winter wish list with these brand new boutiques

118 Magnificent Melbourne Visit the cultural capital of Australia

122 Cruising in Luxury Uniworld offers boutique river cruising

130 St. Regis Doha Qatar’s premium hotel

134 Desirable Destinations Hotels in the world’s most exciting and soughtafter destinations

Cover Image His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and Her Royal Highness Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa.

150 Oasis of Relaxation Pamper yourself at one of these three world class spas

160 Polo at the Palace Coutts Polo takes place at the Emirates Palace

164 The Vision of Vertu Vertu CEO Massimiliano Pogliani tells Durrah about the new Constellation

168 Inspired Eating Eat well with Durrah’s restaurant recommendations

DURRAH is a quarterly premium lifestyle magazine published by Miracle Publishing. Reproduction in whole or part is strictly prohibited. No part of this publication or any other part of the contents thereof may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form without the permission of the publisher in writing. While every effort has been made towards factual correctness, the publisher accepts no responsibility for errors of omission or statements made within the publication. The publisher also rejects any claims arising from any action, which a company or individual may take upon the basis of content contained therein. The opinions and views contained in this publication are not necessarily those of the publisher.

178 King of Cuisine Alain Ducasse comes to the Middle East

184 Speed Sensations Exceeding expectations in the automotive industry

200 My Wish List

ISSN 2210-1322

The latest and most sought after luxury items

206 Silver Seas SILVERYACHTS book by Brands by Hands

210 Final Pearl Bahrain’s upcoming events

www.durrah.bh e.mail: info@durrah.bh T. +973 77022222

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Welcome

First Impression A word from the editor-in-chief

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t is an honour to be starting our Winter issue with His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and Her Royal Highness Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa on the cover of Durrah, in celebration of our 41st annual Bahrain National Day. This event is a great time to look back on the history of our country and recognise the 14th anniversary of His Majesty King Hamad’s accession to the throne.

For our special feature this month, we have paid tribute to Her Royal Highness Princess Sabeeka and some of the amazing work she has done for the country. In particular we look at her involvement with the Supreme Council for Women, which has been changing the lives of Bahrainis since it began in 2001.

The timing could not be better, as we also approach Bahraini Women’s Day on December 7th, another one of the many celebrations taking place this month.

This issue we have also had the privilege of talking to the Minister of Transport His Excellency Mr. Kamal Ahmed, who gives us some information about the much anticipated Bahrain International Airshow coming

this January, and shared some of the exciting things we can expect.

December is a great time of year in Bahrain, as we get a chance to enjoy the cooler weather as well as the increased number of events that come with it. We also get the opportunity to look back and reflect on the year that was, and start to make time to think about our hopes for the year ahead.

It has been a great year at Durrah as we celebrated our fifth anniversary, and had the privilege of taking part in many standout events. Some of the most notable included the Spring of Culture, Bahrain Formula 1 Grand Prix, BaselWorld, and most recently, Jewellery Arabia, which we have covered this issue.

Other highlights this season include exclusive interviews with Ferrari Chairman Luca di Montezemolo, culinary legend Alain Ducasse, and Co- Guardian of luxury jewellery company, Pascal Mouawad. We have featured art from well known and respected artists such as calligrapher Hassan Massoudy, impressionist Alexandr Onishenko and photographer Tariq Dajani. It’s

been a busy few months, so expect a number of other surprises that will keep you turning the pages!

The excitement doesn’t stop there, as this month we have the Bahrain International Design Week to look forward to, which takes off in the first week of December and is a great chance to see some of the latest work of artists, curators, creators and designers. This year Durrah joins in on the action, with a retrospective of our past five years on display at our stall at the exhibition, so be sure to stop by.

We hope that you enjoy the season and enjoy this issue, and we wish you an inspiring and prosperous New Year!

Khalid Ahmed Juman Editor in Chief

pa n e r a i . c o m

design a n d technology.

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Manama: Asia Jewellers, Sheraton Complex, +973 1 753 4444

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Special Feature

Her Royal Highness Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa As the first lady, Her Royal Highness Princess Sabeeka Bint Ibrahim Al-Khalifa focuses on several important issues, including the participation of women in the development process and in enhancing projects aiming to assist families with limited income to diversify their sources of income. Other areas of focus are youth and childhood, as well as peace and social security. She has also taken an interest in developing and preserving the environment and agricultural sector in the Kingdom of Bahrain.

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mproving and changing the lives of countless Bahrainis, Her Royal Highness Princess Sabeeka Bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa has dedicated her time and her work to truly making a difference. As the first lady, she has focused her attention on those in need, launching and overseeing a great number of initiatives to enhance the quality of life of Bahraini families.

Her most notable work has come from her role as chairwoman for the Supreme Council for Women (SCW). Under guidance of Her Royal Highness, the organization’s national plan for the advancement of Bahraini Women has worked to empower Bahraini women, ensuring an equal partnership to building a competitive and sustainable society.

Within the SCW’s first working term (2001-2004),a National Strategy for the Advancement of Bahraini Women was developed, with the mission of enabling Bahraini women to become a “worthy partner in building and sustaining the country’s growth”. At the start of its second working cycle (2004-2007), the SCW developeda Strategic Action Plan in order to achieve this, and held a conference entitled “Women – worthy partners in building and sustaining the country’s growth.” The conference was attended by representatives from all official institutions, private sectors and civil society organizations; and resulted in establishing a National Plan for the implementationof Bahrain’s Strategy for the Advancement of Bahraini Women which was officially adopted by the SCW on February 6th,2007 as the core document for their work.The Supreme Council for Women then began the implementation of the various prioritiesof the

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National Plan through the collaboration with the concerned ministries and official institutions, in order to implementand achieve as many as possible of the numerous programs and projects aimed at supporting and empowering Bahraini women.

Since then, the National Plan (2007- 2012) has been reviewed and evaluated, and on January 23, 2013 Her Royal Highness the President of the Supreme Council for Women presented to His Majesty the King, the steps which were pursued by the Council in the process of renovation and formulation of the National Plan for the Advancement of Bahraini Women (2013 - 2022).

On this occasion, His Majesty the King advised all relevant authorities to provide all means of support, cooperation and coordination required by the Supreme Council for Women to implement the National Plan for the Advancement of Bahraini Women (2013 - 2022).

The SCW has had a number of highlights in their work so far. For example, the Political

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Empowerment Program, launched in order to support women’s participationin municipal and parliamentary elections. During the launch of this political empowerment program, Her Royal Highness Princess SabeekaBintIbrahim Al-Khalifa visited a number of mosques and various places of worship in the five governorates of the Kingdom in preparation for participation in the 2002 elections. In preparation for the2006 elections, the General Secretariat at the Supreme Council for Women planned integrated programs, which focused on providing a full range of technical support and intense practical training for all women who expressed an interest to participate in the field of politics. The program was re-assessed for the 2010 elections, focusing on themes of awareness, partnership and training. The program was able to achieve remarkable success in the complementary elections of 2011, which is reflected today in the 4 women who were elected.

Her Royal Highness Princess Sabeeka Bint Ibrahim

Al-Khalifa has established a number of awards in order to commemorate people and organizations for their support for the missions of the SCW. The Award for the Empowerment of Bahraini Women is given every two years to a ministry, government or private institution, who show support in the field of empowering Bahraini working women. Every four years, the Award for the Empowerment of Women in Vocational and Political Societiesis given to the institution working towards strengthening the role of women in this realm. The award of the late Shaikha Hessa Bint Salman AlKhalifa for Youth Voluntary Workis presented every two years for the most outstanding voluntary work

by Bahraini youth. Her Royal Highness Princess Sabeeka Bint Ibrahim Al-Khalifa made the decision to establish the “Honour Seal” for Bahraini Women Entrepreneurs following Her Royal Highness’s initiative to honour leading Bahraini businesswomen at the 10th Anniversary of the establishment of the SCW and Bahraini Women’s Day 2011. This Award aims to honour

01 Her Royal Highness was awarded the Shaikh Isa First Class Order

by His Majesty the King (2008) 02 Supreme Council for Women Meeting (2012) 03 Her Royal Highness’s Award ceremony to encourage productive families

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Special Feature

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04 Her Royal Highness Princess Sabeeka Bint Ibrahim Al-Khalifa inaugurates the Kanoo geriatric wards at Muharraq’s Hospital for Maternity and Elderly Care (2012) 05 Her Royal Highness casts her ballot in the Elections (2006)

The SCW has had a number of highlights in their work so far. For example, the Political Empowerment Program, launched in order to support women’s participation in municipal and parliamentary elections.

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young females who are successful in the field of entrepreneurship and to encourage and highlight their capabilities and competencies.

The SCW is also tasked with submitting recommendations to amend or introduce new resolutions, laws and legislations and propose improvements based on the actual needs of women.

The Support Centre for Women at the Supreme Council for Women serves as a center point that directly receives the complaints and grievances of Bahraini women in order to help resolve them through the available means and mechanisms, within the SCW’s authority. The Center contributes to spreading awareness of women’s rights, as well as providing counseling and guidance to those involved in family disputes in order to resolve their issues.

Through the National Plan for the Advancement of Bahraini Women, the SCW has launched a number of training and capacity-buildingprograms and projects which aim to provide women with the skills and techniques necessary to enter the field of entrepreneurship. These projects providetraining and opportunities in the areassuch as Hospitality, Transportation, Fashion Design, Translation, Photography, and the Information and Communication industry.

Another of the SCW’s most recent projects is the opening of the Women’s Development Centre, ‘Riyadat

Center’, which was established in partnership between the SCW and the Bahrain Development Bank to transform micro female businesses to small or medium sized enterprises. Her Royal Highness Princess Sabeeka Bint Ibrahim Al-Khalifa laid the foundation for the construction of this project on the 22nd of February 2010 and the mall is expected to be open during the fourth quarter of this year.

As a complement to the economic empowerment system, the fund of Her Royal Highness Princess Sabeeka Bint Ibrahim Al-Khalifa to support women’s businesses was launched, constituting of two million Bahraini Dinars provided by the Labour Fund ‘Tamkeen’ and managed by Ebdaa Bank. This fund aims to support and encourage women to achieve their ambitions through developing their home or micro businesses to professional companies through the provision of micro loans.

Headed by Her Royal Highness Princess SabeekaBint Ibrahim Al-Khalifa, a National Committee was also set up to monitor the implementation of how women’s needs are to be integrated in the government’swork program, which resulted in equal opportunities units being established into the administrative and organizational structures of a number of Ministries and official institutions. There are currently 18 units in the public sector and one unit in the private sector, where units operate to implement

the National Model for Mainstreaming Women’s Needs in Development by integrating the needs of women in all fields related to the work of the concerned ministry or organization. This is in addition to working towards achieving equal opportunities amongst employees.

Support has also come from His Excellency Shaikh Ahmed bin Mohammed Al-Khalifa, Minister of Finance, who directed five circulars between the years 2011-2013 regarding the rules and regulations for the general state budget. The Minister of Finance highlighted the need for Ministries and governmental entities to take into account applying the principle of equal opportunities into their budgets, responsive to women’s needs.

Overall, the Supreme Council for Women, which is headed by Her Royal Highness Princess Sabeeka Bint Ibrahim Al-Khalifa, has been hugely successful in shedding light on the needs of Bahraini women.

The Council hasensuredwomen are recognised and encouraged their contribution to achieving sustainable development within the Kingdom of Bahrain. In recognition of the importance of the role of women, and in line with the democratic reform project led by His Majesty the King; the Supreme Council for Women has and will continue to extend its efforts to achieve a balance within society and through effective partnerships in the implementation of these commitments.

06 His Majesty the King receives Her Royal Highness Princess Sabeeka Bint Ibrahim Al-Khalifa, President of the Supreme Council for Women (2013) 07 Her Royal Highness Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al-Khalifa participates in the Second UN informal thematic debate session on the promotion of gender equality and empowerment of women (2007)

Bahraini Women’s Day 2013 Bahraini Women’s Day was first initiated by Her Royal Highness Princess SabeekaBint Ibrahim Al Khalifa, on December 1, 2008 under the theme ‘She Read, She Learned, She Participated’. On this occasion, Her Royal Highnessdeclaredthat the first of December of each year shall be recognized as Bahraini Women’s Day. It is an opportunity to shed light on the important milestones showing the journey of Bahraini women in dedication and partnership, supporting the drive towards national development in different areas and on different levels.

This year the theme for Bahraini Women’s Day is “Women in Media”.The choice of this theme stems from complete belief that Bahraini women have been able to give a lot in the field of media and have shown their capabilities successfully.

Bahraini Women have been able to portray their achievements in this field alongside men, and in line with the national reform project of His Majesty the King of the Kingdom of Bahrain.

A few of the activities that have taken place in support of this event are as follows:

Media Rally Competition

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The competition aims to initiate a significant development in the field of information directed towards women, through increasing media production with regards to women’s issues. The competition supports the strategic National Plan byencouraging use of various forms of media to improve and increase media articles exploring women’s rights in all fields.

Youth Forum for ‘Women and Social Media’ Organised by the Youth Section at the SCW, this Forum took place in October 2013 and aimed to empower youth by providing them with the necessary skills to actively participate in the community. The event allowed youth to build partnerships and networks with relevant institutions and build relationships with different sectors of society. The forum addressed three main topics; the social aspect of Women and Media, electronic volunteering through social media as well as the investment aspect of this field.

Media Practices Workshop This workshop ran from 25th-26th June 2013 and discussed media practices aimed at building the capacities and skills of media personnel and strengthening their understanding of the laws related to women’s issues.

This was done with the intent of raising the caliber of the quality of media produced addressing women’s issues, and dealt with topics such as freedom of expression in the media, professional and ethical standards governing direct media work and codes of conduct in the media.

To find out more information visit www.scw.bh

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Special Event

Bahrain International Airshow With the third edition of the Bahrain International Airshow just around the corner, Durrah talks with His Excellency Engineer Kamal bin Ahmed Mohammed, Minister of Transportation and Acting Chief Executive of the Economic Development Board, who was recently appointed as a member of the Supreme Organizing Committee for the show. Taking place from Thursday 16 to Saturday 18 January 2014 at the Sakhir Airbase, the elite Airshow attracts a huge number of international and regional businesses, as well as offering visitors the opportunity to experience one of the best flying displays in the Middle East. H.E. Mr. Kamal Ahmed says this year’s show will be bigger than ever, with a number of new attractions to enjoy, and even more businesses and sponsors taking part in the event.

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02 01 The Airshow in 2012 02 His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa with a Russian jet fighter 03 Blue coloured Russian Knights from the 2012 show

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In terms of putting Bahrain on the international stage, BIAS is one major event held in the Kingdom that achieves this, along with the Formula One Grand Prix which is another example of a successful global event held in the Kingdom.

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You were recently appointed as a member of the Supreme Organising Committee of the Bahrain International Airshow (BIAS). What has your role been as part of this committee?

The BIAS team at MoT works year-round to organize each edition of the Airshow under the close guidance and follow-up of HH the Chairman of the Committee. We work jointly to build partnerships with potential participants, and we are pleased that we have succeeded in retaining many of our repeat clients, such as Boeing, Airbus, Gulf Stream and Lockheed Martin as well as attracting businesses who are participating this year for the first time like the French Safran Morpho, Turkish Aerospace Industry, Turkish Engineering Industry, India Military Industry, the German Lufthansa Technik as well as the Italian Finmeccanica name a few. Their participation is testament to the success of the show and we hope to continue to grow in the years to come.

The 2014 airshow is now almost sold out and will be an even bigger event than in previous years.

This includes both the trade and the public parts of the show; the latter of which we are adding new attractions aimed at providing edutainment activities for families. Considering that there are many airshows that are organized around the world every year, we strive to ensure that Bahrain International Airshow continues to remain an important event on the itinerary of leading companies to participate or visit.

The Bahrain International Air Show’s Supreme Organizing Committee is chaired by His Highness Shaikh Abdulla bin Hamad Al Khalifa, His Majesty the King’s Personal Representative, and is responsible for leading the organization and implementation of this important event, which is organized by the Ministry of Transportation (MoT). BIAS is a very important B2B platform for trade and business in the aviation industry and since we first starting hosting it, the show has grown considerably in terms of business and visitors. This year the show is in its third edition. As the Kingdom of Bahrain’s Minister of Transportation, it is my role to ensure that we capitalize on this show to further boost the aviation industry in Bahrain, attracting new business, and provide the public with an educational and informational showcase in which they can participate and enjoy. The overall aim is to contribute to the development of Bahrain’s economy in a fast-growing industry, providing international, regional and local businesses with an opportunity to conduct business.

How do you think the Airshow helps to put Bahrain into the international spotlight?

The 2014 Airshow has already gained support from a number of leading sponsors.

What can these businesses expect to gain from taking part in the show?

BIAS has established itself as an event on the global airshow calendar and this is a matter of pride for everyone in Bahrain. This year’s show will attract around 80 international civil and military delegates from around the world. BIAS is a great opportunity

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Special Event

to show the world the very best of what the Kingdom has to offer in terms of business potential – not just in the aviation sector, but also in ancillary services that support the industry, benefiting local businesses and employees. The show is held at international standards, customised for Bahrain’s business goals and our focus is on generating business with the international companies that attend. The show also attracts around 700 members of the media.

In terms of putting Bahrain on the international stage, BIAS is one major event held in the Kingdom that achieves this, along with the Formula One Grand Prix which is another example of a successful global event held in the Kingdom. The Ministry of Transportation is pleased to support Bahrain’s annual calendar of events and to do what is necessary in the transportation industry to help develop the economy of Bahrain.

Can you tell us about the exclusive Chalet packages on offer, and how they will enhance the show’s experience?

Can you tell us a bit about Sakhir Airbase – the venue for the upcoming Airshow?

What will set next year’s show apart from previous years?

Sakhir Airbase, the venue for BIAS, has 40 chalets which are fully equipped to provide the participants and guests with meeting facilities where they can conduct business. Each chalet has a terrace from where the flying displays can be viewed. There is an open space for static display of aircraft in front of the chalets for those companies who are exhibiting.

This year we have introduced the Pavilion which will enable smaller companies who do not wish to occupy a chalet the chance to participate and display their products. There will be security, technical and airport equipment displayed at the Pavilion.

Each chalet includes 160 square metres of space with lounge seating and dining for 40 guests. Catering for breakfast, lunch and afternoon refreshments is included. Each chalet also comes with 120 guest entrance passes.

What are some of the things we can expect to see and look forward to at the Airshow?

The public arena is open to the general public and tickets are available for purchase for anyone who wishes to visit the show. We have a wide variety of entertainment attractions, including night flying displays, which will be announced in the run-up to the show.

www.bahraininternationalairshow.com

04 Portrait of His Excellency Kamal bin Ahmed Mohammed 05 Bahrain Prime Minister, His Royal Highness Prince Khalifa Bin Salman Al Khalifa and Crown Prince, His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa

The man who saved Ferrari 026

Special Feature

Luca di Montezemolo has been Chairman of Ferrari since November 1991, although his career with the company began back in 1973, when he worked as assistant to Enzo Ferrari. Today, more than 20 years after his role as Chairman commenced, Montezemolo has been referred to as “the man who saved Ferrari” after resurrecting the business from heavy debts into solid profit. We talk to Luca to hear more about what the future has in store for the luxury Italian sports car manufacturer.

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orn in Bologna, Italy, Luca di Montezemolo graduated in Law from the University of Rome in 1971, later specialising in International Commercial Law at Columbia University in New York. He first joined Ferrari in 1973 as assistant to Enzo Ferrari, a position he held until 1977, and was also the company’s Sporting Director from 1974 to 1975. During this period he won two Formula 1 Drivers’ World Championships with Nikki Lauda in 1975 and 1977.

Since then, Montezemolo has worked as Director of External Relations for the Fiat Group, CEO at Itedi – the Fiat Group’s publishing division and head of Cinzano International. He also organised the Azzurra challenge, Italy’s first ever foray into the America’s Cup and organised Italy’s hosting of the World Cup finals as head of Italia ’90. At the end of the World

Cup, Montezemolo took over as CEO of RCS Video, before making the move back to Ferrari in November 1991. With a list of further achievements, it’s fair to say that his experience is incomparable.

Using his experience to great advantage, Montezemolo’s contribution to the success of Ferrari is no secret. During his time as Chairman, he managed to boost the brand from selling fewer than 2,500 cars worldwide per year, to over 7000 today, while still maintaining that unmistakable sense of Italian luxury and exclusivity.

Montezemolo’s focus now is on Formula 1 and returning Ferrari to victory for 2014. With Finnish driver Kimi Räikkönen who was the last to win the World Championship for Ferrari returning to the team; the year ahead is certainly promising.

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Special Feature 01 Luca Cordero di Montezemolo and FIAT Chairman Gianni Agnelli, who later appointed Montezemolo president of Ferrari 02 At a Formula 1 racing track 03 Luca today, in one of the Ferrari showrooms

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Durrah takes some time to have an exclusive chat with Ferrari Chairman, Luca Cordero di Montezemolo What is it that sets Ferrari apart from other luxury car brands on the market?

For Ferrari, luxury does not just mean creating a car that is unique in its innovative design and bespoke in its handcrafted manufacture; but creating one that offers the pinnacle of technology to ensure extreme, yet usable performance, and unprecedented driving emotions.

How is Ferrari keeping up in terms of the latest in technology and innovation?

Ferrari has always been at the forefront of technological progress and has demonstrated its ability to innovate throughout its 66-year history.

Over the years, we have constantly carried over cutting-edge technologies from Formula 1 racing to our road cars. We also invest every year around 1518% of our turnover in product development. But for Ferrari, innovation is not just about the technology – it is about materials and about methodology; the mindset, if you like. Our engineers constantly push the boundaries in all aspects of development in Formula 1 and automatically we carry that experience over on to our road cars. An example is LaFerrari, a limitedseries special that sets a benchmark in advanced engineering as well as introducing pioneering technology (KERS and active aerodynamics) that will filter down to our production cars.

Last year Ferrari had record sales for the company; do you see this increasing even more by next year?

Demand for our cars has risen steadily internationally over the years, but we have grown as far as I want to for now. For Ferrari a key priority is maintaining exclusivity, and we have always produced fewer cars than demand. But over the next two years I have decided to cap production at no more than 7000 cars. It may mean that some markets will have to wait a little longer to get cars, but it will ensure that residuals remain stronger in the long term, which is a benefit to clients!

What are your plans for the Middle Eastern and Chinese markets?

Formula 1. When I returned to Ferrari in 1991, we had been uncompetitive in F1 for many years, but we opened a new season and today we are the most successful team in history. I am also really pleased with the level of our current range of on the road cars, with different Ferraris for different Ferraristi, and unique models that offer unique driving experiences.

But the thing I am probably most proud of, is the award we won as ‘Best place to work in Europe’, I am really happy that the quality of life in our factory is outstanding. As I always say, to build exceptional cars we need exceptional people.

What have been some of your favourite models from Ferrari?

Both these markets have grown significantly over the years, but we are not looking to increase volumes.

Ferrari’s policy is to maintain exclusivity, as I said before. I want our clients in the Middle East and in China to appreciate how exceptional our cars are, and that they are part of the Ferrari family – something that dreams are made of.

Since 1991 we have revolutionised our range, and I can honestly say that each new model we have launched has been a favourite, because each has represented a massive step forwards in every way.

Having said that, I am particularly fond of the FF – not just for performance and driving thrills – but also in terms of usability, emissions and versatility, which for me with young children, is important.

What have been some of the key highlights in your journey as Chairman?

Do you plan to open any more Ferrari theme parks like the one in Abu Dhabi?

Without a doubt one of the things that has made me most proud has been our ongoing success in

I have to say that the Abu Dhabi theme park has been a source of considerable satisfaction for us. It

has proved extremely successful and I think leaves the way open for future developments. While we are not currently actively seeking such opportunities, it is true to say we have been approached by a number of parties interested in replicating the idea. It would be wrong to say that we are not interested, but we are not in a hurry.

What do think makes Bahrain unique in its F1 offering?

Ferrari and I have a strong relationship with Bahrain, and I would love to visit this amazing country more often to see Crown Prince Salman Bin Hamad AlKhalifa, a friend of mine who I esteem highly.

Sakhir is a good venue for Ferrari; we won the first ever race there (and the first ever race in the Middle East) in 2004 with Schumacher, and Massa also took two victories! As one of the most modern circuits in Formula 1, it boasts an uncompromising design. It’s one of the longest tracks in the calendar and is also one of the most technical, which is what many drivers look for. Plenty of run-

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off areas also make it one of the safest, which is a very important factor.

Will Ferrari’s hybrid car ever be a cost effective product?

For hybrids to become truly cost-effective as well as technically feasible for high-performance cars, we need to attend to significant improvements in battery technology as well as hardware packaging.

At the moment, the trade-off in costs and the extreme development in work required to adequately contain the size and weight of the hybrid powertrain is a serious compromise. Certainly, it is an effort we can justify with such an extreme, limited-series hypercar like LaFerrari, but it will take time before that technology can be applied to a normal production car without increasing the size of the car and its weight, which is exactly what we don’t want to do!

Many claim that sport car manufacturers are not the best environment supporters.

What would you respond to them?

I think Ferrari has shown all sports car manufacturers that it is possible to produce performance cars and at the same time, achieve the kind of efficiency gains that no-one would have believed possible just 10 years ago. Ferrari has led the world in adopting tri-generation technology for the production of all its own electricity, heating and cooling for the factory and for the F1 department. Since 2010 in fact, we have produced over 30,000 tons of CO2 less a year – that’s a 40% reduction – thanks to the on-site tri-generation plant alone. Then there is the improvement in fuel consumption and emissions – since 2007 we have reduced our average CO2 emissions by 40%.

Where do you see the future of the brand headed?

Ferrari is, and must remain, at the forefront of Formula 1 racing. This is the backbone of Ferrari’s philosophy in its pursuit of technical excellence.

The production cars will continue to represent that philosophy on the road, so that they will continue to be the dream that all serious drivers aspire to.

MANAMA DUBAI ABU DHABI ALKHOBAR RIYADH AMMAN DOHA

Diamond Dream 032

Jewellery

Led by 4th generation Co-Guardians Fred, Alain & Pascal Mouawad, and backed by more than a century of excellence in its field, Mouawad remains a family business built upon artistic excellence, superb craftsmanship, trust and relationships. Each year Mouawad amazes the world with stunning jewellery masterpieces – including Guinness World Record winners – that challenge haute joaillerie mastery and continue to set the bar ever higher. Once again the brand unveils another extraordinary masterpiece at this year’s Jewellery Arabia Show – the Burmese Fire & Ice Wave Diamond & Ruby Suite – and Durrah talks exclusively to Pascal Mouawad.

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ouawad designs, manufactures and sells its own exclusive jewellery and timepiece collections ranging from boutique collections and high-end jewellery to magnificent bespoke masterpieces and objects of art. The Mouawad brand has penetrated continents across the world, while retaining its eminent position as jewellers to royalty, high society, celebrities and those that appreciate the finest standards of dazzling craftsmanship.

The vision at Mouawad has always been to enchant and build lifelong relationships with customers, by offering a wide range of jewels and timepieces for all occasions.

Diamonds and gemmology have always been a passion for the Mouawads and besides being renowned for fine jewellery and timepieces, over the years the Mouawad family has acquired some of the largest and rarest diamonds in the world. The family’s on-going support of the global industry through research and education led to third generation, Robert Mouawad, receiving a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) and having the GIA campus named in his honour.

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Jewellery

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Today the business is run by Co-Guardians from the Mouawad family, with brothers Fred Mouawad heading the diamond division, Alain, the watch division and Pascal, the retail division. Each Co-Guardian brings his unique business acumen and creativity to the 123 year old brand with the mission of continuing the rich heritage of creating fine jewellery and timepiece collections—while widening distribution through contemporary and accessible price points in order to increase the reach of the brand internationally.

Gracing Bahrain this year with their presence at Jewellery Arabia, Mouawad unveiled another extraordinary masterpiece; the Burmese Fire & Ice Wave Diamond & Ruby Suite. The most recent addition to their high jewellery opus, the piece features a remarkable invisible setting holding an exquisite oval Burmese ruby in a glacial cascade of pristine diamonds with an equally stunning companion ring.

As remarkably beautiful as it is mysterious, the Burmese Fire & Ice Wave masterpiece suite explodes with

brilliance and teems with creative inspiration. Encased in a cascading, invisibly-set glacial wave of pristine princesscut diamonds, the fiery, awe-inspiring 25.28 carats ruby bursts from within its sensual course – only to be held fast by the steely wave’s silky embrace.

Its equally stunning companion, an 11.352 carats Burmese ruby that crowns the ring, carries forth the icy, flowing theme – bound to its perch above its smoothly seductive diamond throne. Wrought from Mouawad’s imagination and the beauty and mystical powers of nature, the Burmese Fire & Ice Wave is as captivating as it is regal and destined for the hearts of women everywhere.

Beyond this unequalled bespoke masterpiece appearing at the show and totalling almost 220 carats of diamonds and 36.62 carats of rubies, Mouawad will also be showcasing their entire luxury Swiss watch collections, the Grande Ellipse chronographs and the ladies La Griffe as well as a variety of exquisite boutique collections. www.mouawad.com

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Durrah caught up with Pascal Mouawad at Jewellery Arabia, to hear more his time with the brand.

What is the style philosophy behind Mouawad?

Mouawad’s style philosophy is about enchanting and delighting customers with magnificent jewels that are timeless pieces of beauty to own and behold. Our style reflects our understanding of the exquisite beauty of creativity, craftsmanship and quality as they withstand trends and are appreciated from one generation to the other.

You run the company alongside Fred and Alain and you are all part of the fourth generation of the Mouawad family. Do you each have individual roles in the business or do you mostly work together?

My brothers Fred and Alain manage the diamonds and watch divisions respectively, and I the retail division.

We each have our individual strengths and know-how and each brings his unique business acumen and creativity to the 123-year old brand that gives us a real competitive edge in today’s market. The vision my brothers, Fred and Alain and I have is to continue the brand’s tradition of creating the finest jewelry, award-winning masterpieces and luxury timepieces and to maintain that excellence for centuries to come.

You have recently further expanded your brand within the Middle East what has the response to Mouawad been like over here?

Our association with the Middle East has been a

long one and we have some of our most valued and timeless relationships with our clientele from the region. Our jewellery and timepieces have delighted our customers here and Mouawad as a brand transcends generations. Yes, we are expanding our presence here and are opening a new boutique in Abu Dhabi and Riyadh in early 2014.

What would you say is your most popular product at the moment?

This year witnessed the launch our first line of Swiss Watches under the name of Mouawad Genève and I can say that these timepieces have become the most popular product especially after the endorsement deal we had with Najwa Karam for the Ladies line called La Griffe.

What has been your proudest achievement so far with the company?

Our proudest achievement has always been and always will be that Mouawad is a family business built upon artistic excellence, superb craftsmanship, trust and lifelong relationships with our customers.

What are your hopes for the future of Mouawad?

Our hope is to continue this tradition of enchanting and delighting people with our customers by offering a wide range of jewelry and timepieces for all occasions that they can continue to cherish over generations.

01 Ring from Larme D’Amour Collection made from 18K white gold, sapphires and diamonds 02 Ring from the Lava Collection made from hand-crafted pieces of 18k rose gold, citrines and black & white diamonds 03 The Burmese Fire & Ice Wave Suite on display at Jewellery Arabia.

25.271 carats oval Burmese Ruby set in 212.78 carats diamonds and a companion ring 04 Ring from the Mouawad Classic Pearl Collection 05 Co-guardians Fred, Alain and Pascal at the launch of the Mouawad Watch Line 06 Necklace and earrings from the Mouawad Classic Pearl Collection

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Watches

The link between Hermès and watch-making goes back over a century and has been expressed over the decades in countless different ingenious, elegant and unique ways. One of the most recent products from the brand is the first Hermès flying tourbillon watch – the Arceau Lift. Durrah finds out more about the brand’s latest model, and talks to La Montre Hermès CEO Luc Perramond.

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912 marked the start of the longstanding history between Hermès and watch-making. In 1928, the historical Hermès store at 24, Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré in Paris opened, offering the first timepieces bearing the Hermès signature, equipped at the time with mechanisms from the greatest Swiss watch brands.

50 years later, in 1978, the company set up the watch-making division of La Montre Hermès in Bienne (Brügg), at the very heart of the Swiss watch industry. In 2006, Hermès created a workshop specially dedicated to the making of leather watch bands, thus becoming the industry’s only brand to craft its own straps. Since then, it has developed its collections while progressively integrating horological skills. The quest for excellence is the trademark of the Maison Hermès, particularly in the field of watchmaking, where it has been enlisting the support of the finest artisans for the past century.

One of the most recent offerings from the luxury brand is Hermès’ flying tourbillon watch, the Arceau Lift, which is inspired by the historical premises of Hermès at 24, Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré in Paris.

The double H topping the tourbillon carriage and the barrel bridge of the Arceau Lift reproduces one of the emblematic motifs featured in the interior design of the boutique. Testifying to the enthusiasm for wrought-iron work in the early 20th century, it appears in a number of details including the entrance, the handrails, the banisters, and above the door of the Lift, installed in 1923 and after which it is named. More than just a pattern that would subsequently inspire other creations, Lift symbolises the union between the Hermès and Hollande families in 1900

through the marriage of Emile Hermès, grandson of the House founder, and Julie Hollande.

This motif has now been given a watch-making reinterpretation by setting the stage for one of the most demanding complications: the flying tourbillon.

The tourbillon does indeed appear to be flying and its elegant rotations are accompanied by the double H, whereas the second Lift motif above the barrel bridge in the upper part of the watch remains fixed in its appointed place.

Arceau Lift represents an authentic technical feat driven by Calibre H1923, thus named in reference to the date when the elevator was installed in the boutique.

Certain parts of the multi-layered movement form a dial with a raised chevron motif, alternating between purely decorative and more specifically horological finishes.

Vividly displaying the excellence of this exceptional mechanism, the components of Calibre H1923 are indeed finished with the special care demanded by watch-making traditions. The bevelling on the bridges, wheels and screws is entirely done by hand; while the 12 o’clock jewel surround, as well as the double H topping the tourbillon carriage, feature the mirror-polishing technique also known as specular polishing.

This complication may be admired from the dial side and is also revealed through an opening carved out in the back of the gold case, bearing the Hermès ex-libris.

To finish it off, the Arceau Lift is fitted with an alligator strap crafted in the workshops of La Montre Hermès, and each of these 176 timeless limited-edition watches is engraved with a unique individual number.

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Watches 01 Hermès at 24, Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré in Paris 02 Portrait of Luc Perramond 03 The Arceau Lift 04 Close up of the historical lift inside the Faubourg store

The quest for excellence is the trademark of the Maison Hermès, particularly in the field of watch-making, where it has been enlisting the support of the finest artisans for the past century.

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Interview with La Montre Hermès CEO, Luc Perramond 02

How did you find yourself in the luxury brand market and most specifically, working for Hermès?

My whole career has been in the watch and jewellery business. The opportunity to join the Maison Hermès is a dream for anyone like me, who is passionate about beautiful high-quality objects. Moreover, the aim of making watch-making a genuine growth engine for the Hermès Group was an exciting challenge that I simply could not refuse.

What is the philosophy behind the Hermès brand?

Hermès is about elegant style, discretion, creativity, quality and craftsmanship.

Which parts of the world are your watches manufactured, and how do you maintain quality control?

Hermès watches are 100% Swiss made; equipped with the Hermès in-house movement for the manufactured watches, dials made by Natéber SA owned by Hermès, cases made by Joseph Erardalso owned by Hermès and leather straps made in the Hermès ateliers in Switzerland. We also work with the best Swiss suppliers for other components. Having the most important components in-house allows us to guarantee the best level of quality Hermès is always achieving.

People still buy luxury goods despite the economic slowdowns and recession. Why do you think that is?

Clients are looking for quality and high-value objects from brands endowed with a heritage, genuine craftsmanship skills and unique creativity. Objects that will be cherished for a lifetime will acquire a delightful patina with age, and that will be passed on to loved ones, charged with intense emotion. These types of goods do not suffer from economic slowdowns because they are full of trust linked to the brand.

What region would you say your most persistent clients are from?

France is the number one market followed by China, Japan and the US. We have an untapped potential in regions like the Middle East, Russia, India, Brazil and Indonesia. Even Europe offers nice growth perspective for us in larger watch markets like the UK and Germany for example.

Limited editions in every brand always have a special charm on customers. How does Hermès use this as a strategy?

Each year, Hermès offers unique and limited edition timepieces presenting high craftsmanship such as Grand Feu enamel, gold engraving or straw marquetry. These timepieces are cherished by watch connoisseurs and collectors worldwide.

The latest model from Hermès – the Arceau Tourbillon Lift – is the brand’s first flying tourbillon watch, and said to be inspired by the historical premises of Hermès at 24, Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré in Paris. How did the idea for this model first originate?

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One of our main sources of inspiration is our historical premises at 24 Faubourg Saint Honoré, the private Emile Hermès museum or the conservatory. The double H motif, which is the decoration of the lifts at the Faubourg store, was the basis for the product development team to rework the whole architecture of the flying tourbillon’s cage in order to offer a product which is unique to the brand and which presents the Hermès values and DNA. This motif symbolizes the union between the Hermès and Hollande families in 1900 through the marriage of Emile Hermès, grandson of the House founder, and Julie Hollande.

What are some of your future ambitions with Hermès, and where do you see the brand headed?

As we are offering more and more complicated and exceptional watches, we will definitely attract collectors and customers who are passionate about beautiful, highquality objects. The potential for increasing the business is very high for Hermès watches all around the world.

Our ambition is to become an important and well-respected actor in the Swiss watch industry while respecting the values of the House. Our strategy consists of strengthening the mix of mechanical watches in our portfolio in order to reinforce our legitimacy established since 1928. As mentioned, we are also developing timepieces of exception to highlight various craftsmanship skills such as leather, watchmaking, enameling and engraving and we will continue presenting singular complications such as the Arceau Le temps suspendu.

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Watches

Time has always been a mystery, something that is fleeting and intangible. As the precious seconds tick by, how do we measure, how do we master and how do we describe this elusive moment? Creator of avant-garde timepieces, the Maurice Lacroix manufacture made use of its unique knowhow and creativity to take on the challenge and explore new paths to the expression of time, never previously imagined.

The objective: to give back to time some of its mystery and captivate the observer with an intriguing movement, which is communicated in the latest model from the brand; the Masterpiece Seconde Mystérieuse.

Measuring the Mysterious

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or many years man has reflected and elaborated on the units of measurement we use today: seconds, minutes, hours, days and years. Time has become measurable, but the mystery remains, drawing us in relentlessly. As Albert Einstein once said “The most beautiful thing we can experience is the mysterious”.

But how could one possibly inject the power of such a mystery into an object worn on the wrist? How should we convert such an abstract principle into something legible? The mission of Swiss brand Maurice Lacroix has become to invent mechanical emotions and to explore new ways of indicating the passage of time. To do so, the brand can rely on a strong creative pair of fine experts, cumulating over 60 years of experience in the watch making industry. These experts include Sandro Reginelli, an aesthete with a seasoned eye, and Michel Vermot, a worldwide reference in watch engineering with an exceedingly inventive mind. Thanks to their excellent skills and knowledge, Maurice Lacroix has been able to come out with unique design proposals, combined with innovative technical solutions.

The starting point of the research was to break down the traditional circular view of time into a more linear expression. Instead of the straightforward choice of a single hand moving along a flat line, the Research & Development team of Maurice Lacroix preferred to go down a more refined and creative path, exploring new and original forms to come out with a unique and alternate timeline.

This is where Michel Vermot, the head of movement development for Maurice Lacroix, comes into play.

Michel is the son of Charly Vermot, a legendary figure in the watch making industry. A genius watch maker, fascinated by Meccano and Technical Lego, Michel Vermot is an established dreamer, constantly seeking to adapt the reality to his imagination, and not the other way around.

“Is a watch’s purpose really to tell us the time when we are surrounded by technological gadgets such as mobile phones, computers and tablets constantly providing us with this information in a reliable way?” says Michel Vermot. “For me, the primary function of a watch has evolved. It must first and foremost evoke emotions.”

This year, under the direction of Vermot, the brand is proud to unveil its latest model; the Masterpiece Seconde Mystérieuse. The display of time in this captivating new timepiece is magical, and the magician behind this work of art is Calibre ML 215, the twelfth 100% in-house development by Maurice Lacroix. It offers a unique and exclusive linear reading of seconds, alternating from a horizontal to a vertical axis every 15 seconds.

For the birth of such an innovative movement, Maurice Lacroix had no other option than to create a setting that gave it full justice. The result is a stunningly finished and perfectly balanced 43 mm case, a

skeletonised face revealing the movement’s intricacies and an off-centred hours and minutes dial. With such a construction, the Masterpiece Seconde Mystérieuse demonstrates the depth of the design know-how of Maurice Lacroix – already a multiple winner of prestigious design awards. The hours and minutes appear at 2 o‘clock, pointed by metallic blue or rhodium plated hands, whilst the rest of the dial is skeletonised.

Calibre ML 215 and its automatic winding system can be observed through the sapphire case-back of the watch.

With sun-blasted and diamond polished bridges, and grand colimaçon or grained finishing for the complication bridge; the Masterpiece Seconde Mystérieuse is available in two limited editions of 125 pieces each.

The design stems from the function, and the large white circle is a true eye-catcher and it is clearly a watch destined to become a true talking-piece for the fortunate 250 owners that will proudly wear it. The

Masterpiece Seconde Mystérieuse raises a sweet and enchanting spell. Floating around this white dial in an intriguing way, the curious two-tipped hand seems to accelerate briefly before suddenly changing its rhythm in the course of its swirling journey. However, the indication of the second remains accurate and readable.

This optical illusion comes from the mysterious seconds’ hand rotating on its axis, just as if it were levitating. The hand follows a hypocycloidal curve that would draw a beautiful rosette if it left a trace behind it.

Is anybody ready to decipher the mechanical mystery behind such an aesthetical prowess? Through this innovation, the Maurice Lacroix manufacture goes one step further and sets a new benchmark in its exploration of new and original ways of expressing the passage of time. www.mauricelacroix.com

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Perfume

This year Guerlain celebrates the 160th anniversary of their iconic Bee bottle, a piece so renowned that it helped to build the brand’s fame and recognition as a perfumer. To commemorate this legacy, Guerlain commissioned nine “Maîtres d’art” who represent excellence in their fields, to create a complete work of art exactly as they wished, based and centred on the Bee bottle in a one-litre format. The work resulted in a collection of exclusive pieces which display creativity, passion and an intricate eye for detail, and are on display at 68 Champs-Elysées.

The Bee of Guerlain

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n 1853, Pierre-François-Pascal Guerlain, founder of Guerlain, fell captive to the beauty of young Maria Eugenia de Guzman, Countess of Teba, dedicating his Eau de Cologne Impériale to her to celebrate her marriage to Napoleon III. A true technical feat, the cylindrical blown-glass bottle was crafted to perfection by Pochet du Courval glassmakers, and stamped with bees and festoons highlighted with fine gold. In recognition of his gift, Pierre-François-Pascal Guerlain received the highest imperial title, “His Imperial Majesty’s Official Perfume Maker”, which helped spread his fame throughout all of the great European courts.

Today, nine Maîtres d’art have been commissioned to each create a piece based on their version of the prestigious bottle, for display in a unique and multidisciplinary exhibition.

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Perfume

Pierre-François-Pascal Guerlain received the highest imperial title, “His Imperial Majesty’s Official Perfume Maker”, which helped spread his fame throughout all of the great European courts.

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1. Fabrice Gohard – “L’Œuf Surprise” (“The Surprise Egg”) Like a Fabergé, this is a majestic egg in blown glass whose gold-leaf gilding brings to mind an eggshell that has just been broken: an allegory of the imperial genesis, the bottle and its scent. Inside the object, the Bee bottle is enhanced and shimmers in the lustre of gold.

The exquisite refinement of this egg shape is ensured by a floral design painted inside the shell, delivering its secrets to only the most curious of onlookers. Its grace and femininity pay a lovely tribute to the beauty of the Empress Eugénie.

2. Etienne Rayssac – “L’Envolée” (“The Flight”) Woodcarver and ornamental craftsman Rayssac used draped pale sycamore wood to partially envelop the levitating Bee bottle, making it evanescent. The work suggests incredible energy and the effect of curves and dips perfectly captures the light. It is only with hand craftsmanship using special chisels and scrapers that makes it possible to alternate the flow of volumes and the sharpness of edges. The exterior design is delicately sculpted and echoes the intensity of the bottle and the richness of its intrinsic ornamentation.

3. Ludwig Vogelgesang – “Le Présentoir à Secrets” (“The Display Case with Secrets”) Vogelgesang is a cabinet maker specialising in the restoration of high-end Art Deco furniture, sought after by renowned interior designers, galleries, museums and private collectors. His precious cylindrical sculpture unites

two luxurious materials: ivory shagreen and brown rosewood. On its façade, the rare wood traces and outlines the honeycombs. A few small and painstakingly sculpted bees act as clever handles for hidden drawers that can be used to hide one’s treasures. Like crowns, two carved friezes adorn the base and top of this delicate piece. The imperial bottle reigns from the top of the case on a radiant shagreen tray.

4. Lison de Caunes – “Le Théâtre” (“The Theatre”) Bringing back the delicate art of straw marquetry, de Caunes crafted a wooden shrine in the shape of the Bee bottle. In the place of the label, is an opening similar to that of a classic theatre. The interior and exterior feature straw marquetry; the first in an Empire blue sprinkled with stylised bees in embossed yellow straw, following the delicate 18th century technique, and the second in yellow gold chiselled with blue festoons, all with a waxed finish. The interior is lit, accentuating the natural shimmer of the straw and giving a dazzling effect to the bottle, decorated with a straw marquetry label.

5. Sylvie Deschamps – “L’Habit de Fête” (“The Festive Attire”) The renowned gold thread embroider used a covering designed as an imperial coronation robe. The festoons of the dome and 69 bees are embroidered in a raised pattern with 24-carat varnished gold cannetille thread on a white organza sheath. The wings are made of gold leaf and gold powder was sprinkled between the bees to represent pollen. The label is embroidered following

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the principles of the art of heraldry: the imperial crown and bee on a shield over crossed swords, as well as two dates recalling the 160th anniversary. For the finishing details, the iconic bottle neck was wrapped in gold thread, using the technique of the Guerlain “Dames de Tables” craftswomen. In addition, the stopper, dressed in organza, is finely embroidered with a majestic Queen Bee, who reigns proudly over the piece.

6. Emmanuel Barrois – “Le Trouble d’Eugénie” (“Eugénie’s Confusion”) “Eugénie will be crowned Empress in just a matter of hours. As she is getting ready, the bottle drops. The fragrance spills out in absolute shapes. She loses herself in the dark reflections of this sparkling pool. Blood pounds through her temples. She sees something. It’s time. She is caught in a breath…” The transparent bottle has been knocked over on an opaque black glass tray. Splashes of fragrance in singular and crystal-clear shapes stand out against the unfathomable base. This enigmatic mise en abîme by the glass architect is both illusion and realism.

Through this piece, a drama takes form, echoing the destiny of the Empress Eugénie.

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7. Nelly Saunier – “La Cage aux Oiseaux et aux Abeilles” (“The Bird and Bee Cage”) Taking up the form of the iconic bottle, a golden structure reveals delicate feather marquetry by this renowned plumassier, which embraces the chiselled metal. The feather decoration fitted into the extremely precise cutouts is stunning. With an effect of colours and contrasts, matte and iridescent variations between light and dark

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Perfume

areas, the effect is mesmerising. Through the openwork dome, one can glimpse a silky, feathery nest on which the Bee bottle is perched, like a bird ready to take flight into lyricism.

8. Laurent Nogues – “La Ruche Impériale” (“The Imperial Hive”) The leading artist in the field of embossing, hot-stamping and insets on paper; Nogues made a graphic art version of the honeycomb that makes up a hive. This precious honeycomb shaped case is composed of six panels lined with white paper, embossed with a tone-on-tone honeycomb motif. On closer view, one notices an optical illusion on the central stamp that represents the legendary bottle. The development of specific tools and a very singular embossing technique allow for a complex, tailor-made geometry for endless effects of light with striking definition.

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9. Serge Amoruso – “La Malle de Voyage” (“The Travel Trunk”) Amoruso is a leather craftsman and designer, trained at Hermès, who specialises in rare and precious hides. His design consists of an artistic trunk presented in two identical pieces, like a lightningshaped split or a single-use broken mould. Its covering features the rarest and noblest materials: red Morocco leather and parchment stamped with the imprint of the bottle on the interior, midnight blue shagreen and, in contrast, carbon fibre on the exterior. The work is an unusual combination, which transforms the piece into a surprising and contemporary sculpture, completed by a piece of meteorite that opens the doors of time. www.guerlain.com

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Furniture

Redefining the realm of high-style home furnishings both in Italy and abroad, Poltrona Frau is the epitome of Italian excellence. Earlier this year the highly respected brand opened The Poltrona Frau Museum in Tolentino, designed by Michele De Lucchi to showcase the ‘intelligenza delle mani’ or ‘the intelligence of its hands’.

Intelligence in their Hands

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oltrona Frau is a brand that has always suggested true excellence, quality and tradition. It typifies a uniquely Italian, enlightened, entrepreneurship that has ventured beyond territorial boundaries to become a world class brand,” states Dario Rinero, CEO of the Poltrona Frau group.

Just over 100 years old, Poltrona Frau was founded in 1912 by Renzo Frau. From its classic models to the more recent collections, made by some of the finest and most inspired designers and architects in the world, the last century is proof that Italian design excellence enjoys an unparalleled uniqueness. Now, the world centre of luxury furnishings has opened The Poltrona Frau Museum, which goes beyond the traditional museum concept, weaving together different stories and telling about the company’s first 100 years.

Designed by Michele De Lucchi, the facility has rigorous industrial architecture and showcases a collection of furniture, drawings, images and materials never before displayed to the public. Located at Tolentino, the choice of location represents an homage to this area of the Marche, which became the adopted home of the company in the early 1960s. A strong bond that has become stronger over almost 50 years thanks to the expertise of the regional manufacturing industry and the involvement of the local community.

The façade of the 1400sqm museum is white and geometric, surrounded by a long orange wall concealing a verdant lounge area inside. The public is welcomed into a quiet and secluded dimension, which one would not expect to find at a manufacturing facility.

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Furniture

The cafeteria at the entrance is complete with books for guests to read and browse through, and on the right is a fascinating introduction to the actual exhibit presented on nine video totems. The videos demonstrate a succession of words and images, from “hammer” to “quilting”, which make up the technical glossary of Poltrona Frau. A wall created with countless overlapping pieces of leather provides the material backdrop, a condensed sensorial presentation of surfaces and colours.

Vanity Fair, the undisputed icon of both the company and Italian design, is positioned in the middle of a large central patio surrounded by glass and bathed in natural light. To find out how the Vanity is created, just like every other Poltrona Frau product, guests can delve into one of the company’s workshops. Nine monitors show on a loop a series of evocative films akin to animated paintings, where processing phases are described through a series of slow and attentive steps.

Then there’s the historic heart of the museum, which contains a city of spectacular towers of different heights. Produced from wood and covered with semitransparent ecru fabric, the towers are tall, imposing and ethereal. Warmly lit from the inside, the towers resemble huge out-of-scale lanterns, which help create an almost magical atmosphere and light the different paths through the museum.

Arranged in a chronological and fluid sequence are the eleven icons of Poltrona Frau, from Chester to

Juliet. Each is enclosed in a tower and illuminated by a simple spotlight, a graphic symbol of beauty and elegance. It is also a journey through time between the five towers, as each one is dedicated to a 20 year period from 1912 to today, showing a small concentration of trends. Inside the tower is a double display; one side depicts the original pieces of furniture made by Poltrona Frau in those years, reflecting signs of life through lights details and flooring of the era. The other side showcases full original documents, postcards, advertisements, catalogues, sketches and designs; which complete the story of the company and provide insight to the international context of moods, ideas and key events at the time. This demonstrates Poltrona Frau’s ability to gather inspiration, evolve and remain true to itself throughout different eras, showing the company values of elegance, form, function, craftsmanship and excellence.

In two separate rooms these values also emerge. The first is dedicated to ten major contract projects of theatres and auditoriums, which were carried out by leading international architects. The highly complex projects were each awarded a Priztker prize and include buildings such as the Walt Disney Concert Hall in Los Angeles by Frank O. Gehry, the ‘Parco della Musica’ Auditorium in Rome

by Renzo Piano, and the Forum Building in Barcelona by Herzog & De Meuron. Each creation is showcased with a

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high-impact display of photographic images of the project completely covering the backdrop.

The exhibit continues with the world of cars, yachts, airplanes and helicopters where the historic leather culture that distinguishes the company is articulated in the complete upholstery of the interiors. The room featuring ‘Interiors in Motion’ displays the most prestigious projects for top international businesses such as Ferrari, Maserati, Lancia, Pershing, Italo and Etihad Airways. The exhibition is based on the structure of the contract room with a coup de théâtre. A Ferrari California is positioned in the centre of the space and the scene.

“I am very proud of this amazing project,” says vice president of the Poltrona Frau Group Matteo di Montezemolo. “The creation of the Poltrona Frau Museum is an important achievement in the history and development of Poltrona Frau as an international brand. The museum project has developed the most appropriate, direct and universal language to explain and describe the history of Italian excellence through Poltrona Frau’s products, many of its historic documents and the personal opinions of renowned architects and designers. But beyond this, the museum also represents an opportunity for a further strengthening and enhancement of our brand’s role as an ambassador of consolidated Italian business values on the world stage.” www.poltronafrau.com

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01 Museum Icons Sanluca and Dezza 02 Gran Torino 2 seater 03 Installation from the 1910s 04 Videos showing the steps of production

The Mark of Excellence Private & Personalised Banking

For additional information, please contact us on (+973) 7700 0111 or priority@kfh.com.bh

Kuwait Finance House-Bahrain BSC (c) PO Box 2066, Bahrain World Trade Center, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain Tel: (+973) 7777 7777, Fax: (+973) 7700 0600, Website: www.kfh.bh Licensed as an Islamic Retail Bank by the Central Bank of Bahrain

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The Designer Shaik brand is a unique phenomenon, inspired by centuries of Arabian civilizations and is a reflection of true luxury, power and prestige. The Shaik is one who is as mysterious and magical as the desert he calls his home.

Through his vision and inspiration, he has crafted a range of products attainable by few, which are truly cherished, desired and admired by all. Step into the enchanting and glamorous world of Designer Shaik and discover for yourself the exclusive offerings from this Prince of the Desert.

Passion of a desert Prince

01 Jewel Encrusted Opulent for Men 02-03 Creative technology, precision engineering, highly skilled artisans and craftsmanship is the heart of Designer Shaik’s evolving stratagem

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he sun begins to set over the weathered walls of the four palaces of the Shaik as the day fades into sunset; the colour of the sky becomes intensified, blue mellows into pink, then flames to a deep, passionate, crimson. This magical hour is the Shaik’s favourite and most creative time of the day. The colours of the sky awaken his senses and provide inspirations for his creations. The pinks are reminiscent of the desert rose petals that give the finest of floral notes to the Shaik’s fragrances and when evening turns to darkest night, the Arabian sky glitters with starry jewels like the diamonds that stud the Shaik’s most precious perfume flacons.

It is within his desert Kingdom that the Shaik feels most at home; finding room to meditate as the man and his natural habitat complement one another. To the untutored eye such a landscape may at first appear barren, but the Shaik looked more closely and saw her beauty and yielded her bounty. Through understanding his environment and the never ending treasure of the desert, he began to utilise it in his creations. He saw jewels and precious minerals glitter just beneath the surface of the visible world, he sought and found a variety of ingredients for the finest perfumes, and he discovered colours fit to decorate the finest Arabian fabrics. Exotic fragrances grace the breeze, their sweet sensation mirrored in the sugar of the dates that burst from the swaying fronds of the palm trees. Silks billow gently in the wind, rippling the water of a calming oasis, which glitters like a gemstone.

The romance, emotion and passion of moments such as these are absorbed by the Shaik and find creative expression within the walls of his palaces, becoming as

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much of an ingredient in his perfumes as the captivating oils and essences that are distilled and blended with such splendour.

The Shaik’s crown is not merely an indicator of power and social rank, but a representation of the intricacy, artistry and innovation of Arabia and of the man who wears it. The crown is a symbol of the creative and intellectual energy that drives the man and his Kingdom.

The Shaik believes that by immersing himself in opulent surroundings, he will become more inspired in his creation of luxury. He begins his work by drawing inspiration from the shimmering sands of the desert and perceives and interprets the elements of his natural surroundings. Out of this desert phenomenon, colours are transformed into fragrances, jewellery, fashion accessories and watches to match his four Palaces of Nature, Fashion, Jewels and Horology.

The Palace of Nature is made up of unique desert survival essentials, including a range of captivating fragrances, essences and burners, superior quality water and essential body care. The Palace of Fashion is an assortment of iridescent treasures to be shared across generations, from a bespoke couture house to the finest accessories. The Palace of Jewels contains extravagant, ceremonial and lavish fine jewellery and Objet d’Art collections, and finally, the Palace of Horology defines astrology and science, with the Astrolabe Moments in Time watch collection and the finest writing instruments.

Within the Palace of Nature, the Shaik has designed Jewelessence Blue; a fusion of emotion, jewels and essence, made directly from the rarest most elusive plants

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and flowers from nature, and blended lovingly by hand.

The Shaik’s fragrance of choice is Opulent Shaik, which reflects the grandeur and magnificence of the Shaik’s desert surroundings, and the nobility of the people with whom he is accustomed. It is aristocratic, elegant and evocative, conjuring the most profound of sensations.

The Jewellessence Blue Opulent Shaik Classic range blends up to 150 rare and costly ingredients, and those privileged enough to wear this scent will find themselves immersed in a world of beauty, passion and intensity.

Opulent Shaik for Men and for Women represents the ceremonial element of the Shaik’s life and the life of his Princess. The scents are blended to complement a lavish royal lifestyle and remain as exotic, mysterious and timeless as the desert sands. Designer Shaik created his Opulent Range, determined to make a product as everlasting and eternal as the emotion it represents: a constant reminder of the love and romance that inspired it. Opulent Shaik Classic No. 77 for men is presented in a hand crafted silver pewter and crystal flacon; it is an irresistible fusion of elegance, masculinity and dignity.

Available in stylishly different designs there is a profile to suit every man. Opulent Shaik Classic No. 33 for ladies is a true reflection and celebration of female sensuality.

The beautiful flacon is curvaceous, elegant and luxurious to suit different personalities.

The Chic Shaik range on the other hand is bright, informal and unmistakably modern; these perfumes are suitable for everyday use, bringing a touch of adventure to busy lifestyles. Chic Shaik for Men and for Women speaks of freedom and happiness, of a life without boundaries or restrictions, irrepressibly joyful, original and slightly mischievous.

Captivating and delightful, wearing Chic Shaik brings the realm of the Shaik – with all its sensory delights and pleasures – much much closer. Chic Shaik No. 70 for men is subtle, yet exudes an ineffable sense of power and masculinity. Chic Shaik No. 30 for women blends luxury and edginess with a light, optimistic note that is captivating and delightful. Enhancing natural femininity, the scent is reminiscent of love, beauty and individuality.

The new Opulent Shaik Classic Gold Edition for men and women will complement the current Opulent range.

These recently created fragrances have a completely original feel about them and have taken on a new direction. Designer Shaik is known for its boldness and this is no exception. The exquisite flacons which are dipped in 18 karat rose gold are designed to flaunt and the distinctive fragrances make a unique statement that is the epitome of classic sophistication – a fitting choice for any occasion. This range will elevate the status of the Shaik’s existing award winning parfum.

The scents are blended to complement a lavish royal lifestyle and remain as exotic, mysterious and timeless as the desert sands.

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04 Precious jewelled reversible tiepins 05 Designer Shaik monumental clock tower concept 06 Gold Edition Collection 07 Objet D’Art Precious Collection

The Shaik has introduced a service for those wishing to embrace their signature scent and who are truly entranced with the magic of their fragrance. The lifetime refilling service, is the Shaik’s way of guaranteeing that customers across the world are able maintain the luxury and sparkle of their gift over the years. For Opulent Shaik devotees, they can send their jewelled flacons to be cleaned, polished and refilled before being returned to their owner.

These unique and beautiful objects are created within the Palace of Jewels and the Palace of Nature in The Shaik’s desert kingdom. The Palace of Fashion provides the fabrics that form part of the Inspired Gift Collection.

The Shaik considers lovers to be very special people and that their love should be celebrated and rewarded. He recognises that the most sublime of emotions deserves the most exclusive and sumptuous of gifts and he has created these in Designer Shaik’s Objet d’Art Limited Editions in Optimum, Superior and Luxurious. These collections represent a pinnacle of achievement in the perfumer’s art and that of the designer himself. The fragrances themselves are contained within refillable jewelled flacons in precious metals, studded with precious or semi-precious stones. The global refilling and refurbishing service is the only one of its kind in the world.

The Objet d’Art precious gift sets for men and women are

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proof that dedication to striving for the exquisite still exists.

The perfumes and luxurious accessories that accompany them are contained within superb handmade, solid wood, deep, lacquered and decorated caskets each is a treasured component cosseted by the finest Chamois leather.

To complete the magic of his world, the Shaik has developed both the Palace of Fashion and the Palace of Horology to bring to life products that enhance the sensory experience of wearing the Opulent Shaik fragrances. Designer Shaik creates accessories for discerning, clientele who wish to express their individuality through exclusive luxury products, created to international standards. From women’s handbags made of the highest quality leather, to the ancient Arabian instrument the Astrolabe, to the Astrochrono Grande 707-Blue timepiece; the Shaik is constantly looking to expand his product range, and broaden the Designer Shaik experience. Each season greets the introduction of a range of new and unique collections; as the Shaik’s endless imaginations continues to inspire and enables the experience of mystical Arabia to be experienced on a global scale.

The Shaik and his team are an eclectic mix of a conceptualists which includes artisans, precision engineers, architects, experienced media, information technology

professionals and of course the all important ‘nose’.

Designer Shaik represents a cultural, aesthetic and emotional bridge between East and West.

Encompassing a fusion of Western style and design with the romantic mysticism of the East, resulting in a range of unrivalled luxury goods which are truly unique.

The brand’s state of the art headquarters in the Kingdom of Bahrain is at the heart of the operation and is where the brainchild of The Shaik, Mohammed Al Asfoor and his talented team of specialists weave their magic.

Every member of the Designer Shaik team is passionate about the brand and works tirelessly to maintain the high standards our customers expect, continually striving to improve business processes and maximise efficiency and opportunities.

Aligning themselves with major international luxury brands has led to an ambitious expansion plan aimed at creating a lifestyle option for quality focused clients in a multi-cultural market.

Forever reaching to achieve the highest levels of superiority in his exquisite collections, Designer Shaik is a manifestation of style, elegance and panache appreciated by the most discerning of clientele who appreciate the difference.

These unique and beautiful objects are created within the Palace of Jewels and the Palace of Nature in The Shaik’s desert kingdom.

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08-10 Arabia’s premiere watch brand, Astro Duo Watch Collection 11 New range of products

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The Glass of Kings

Renowned glassworks company Moser is among the oldest manufactures in Europe, with a reputation based on the perfect mastering of their manual production process, original design and extraordinary quality of products. Durrah’s exclusive interview with Chairman Antonín Vlk reveals more about the history of Moser and how the brand has preserved their heritage over the years.

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he story of Moser began in 1857, when the manufacture was founded in Karlovy Vary by Ludwig Moser. Ludwig was both an excellent engraver and talented businessman, and one of the most significant personalities of the glass production history in Europe.

Opening the firm in a spa town, which was a popular destination for the wealthy, meant Moser developed a clear focus on production for a demanding clientele. To this day aristocratic families and important people of diplomatic, political or cultural life find in Moser crystal the requisite dignity, quality, beauty and inimitable originality of works of art. It was not long after opening his own glassworks that Moser became an imperial court supplier of Franz Josef I, later also of Persian Shah Musaffereddin and King Edward VII of England.

During its history the Moser glassworks successfully experienced many historical twists and turns and short-term fashion trends, but always managed to preserve its matchless style and creative approach to the development of historical glass making procedures.

The timeless Moser pieces created according to the

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The Moser Glassworks exclusively focuses on the production of crystal with no lead admixtures.

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glassworks’ renowned historical patterns continue to be regarded as a symbol of noblesse and elegance, which has been tried and tested over the generations. Moser’s drinking and decorative sets, interior accessories and artistic engravings are among the best in the world in the area of hand produced luxury crystal.

From the very beginning the fame of the brand was based on the handcraft skills of the glassmakers, cutters, painters, engravers and other master craftsmen in their field. The secrets of art and craft skills were traditionally passed down from generation to generation, and being a master craftsman at Moser means being a globally acknowledged expert in the profession. By virtue of its artistic and utility value, Moser crystal creates an inimitable lifestyle and is an exceptional investment opportunity.

The brand is traditionally a guarantee both for the high artistic-craft level of workmanship, and for good design proposed by talented artists. The Moser Glassworks exclusively focuses on the production of crystal with no lead admixtures. The work with such

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01 Splendid Gold and Royal drinking sets

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02 Versailles, hand cut and engraved bowl, motif ‘Watteau’ 03 Expert craftmanship goes into making a Moser piece 04 From the Maria Theresia drinking set 05 A glass from the Splendid Gold set

molten glass is difficult, but the lead-free crystal is distinctive for its high gloss, lambency and hardness, which enables detail cutting and engraving. Due to this property, the Moser molten glass has always been used by well-known glass artists for their work.

Thanks to its originality and beauty, the crystal works of Moser are presented as official gifts to many socially important people and revered by personalities who set the luxury lifestyle trend. The glassworks also manufactures unique awards and trophies presented for attaining exceptional successes in the field of culture, science and sport. The luxurious crystal has been used in important houses and palaces of monarchs, politicians and governments for more than 155 years and has been sought after by exceptional figures throughout the world. It is a result of this tradition and immaculate reputation that Moser crystal is rightly called the “Glass of Kings”. www.moser-glass.com/en

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Interview with Chairman AntonĂ­n Vlk Can you tell us a bit about the founder, Ludwig Moser?

Ludwig Moser was one of the most distinctive personalities in the history of crystal glass production in the second half of the 19th century in Europe. He was born in 1833 in Karlovy Vary and after completing a practical grammar school, he joined the teaching workshop of renowned glass engraver A.H. Mattoni in Karlovy Vary.

At the same time, he learned and advanced in drawing and gathered experience in Prague and Berlin. In 1857 he became independent and founded an engraving workshop and store. Within a short time after establishing his own glassworks, Ludwig Moser became the Imperial Purveyor of Franz Joseph I., later of Shah Musaffereddina of Persia and King Edward VII of England. Gradually, he gained a reputation as the most prestigious manufacturer of luxurious crystal in the Austro-Hungarian Monarchy. The tradition of luxurious crystal production has never been interrupted, and important clientele find the desired quality and dignity in Moser crystal today.

How do you think Moser managed to retain itself through historical turmoil?

In its more than one hundred and fifty-five year history Moser Glassworks has truly gone through many short-term fashion waves and changes in taste. It has, however, always retained its distinctive style, with 06

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emphasis on the high level of artistic craftsmanship of crystal processing and original designs proposed by talented artists of several generations. This philosophy, which has successfully carried the glassworks through all the decades, continues to this day.

What goes into crafting a crystal piece for Moser?

Each created piece of the Moser brand is unique due to the exceptional quality of Moser crystal glass and the precise handcrafting processes of the glassblowers, cutters, painters and engravers. Moser Glassworks focuses exclusively on the production of lead-free crystal, which can be difficult, but is worth it for its superior quality. The glassworks also performs the techniques of fine gilding, platinum plating and other demanding treatment procedures.

How do you maintain perfection amongst the pieces?

Adherence to the strict rules of the highest quality and a sophisticated system of their control throughout the production process is one of the fundamental pillars on which the glassworks has depended from the very beginning. Crucial, however, is the responsibility of the glassworks’ employees, who perceive carrying out this precise work as their personal prestige.

06 Portrait of Ludwig Moser 07 Moser Maharani Drinking set

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The brand is traditionally a guarantee both for the high artistic-craft level of workmanship, and for good design proposed by talented artists.

What inspires the more contemporary line of Moser collections?

Who have been some of the high profile lovers of the brand?

The inspiration is mainly our customers seeking original design. Also, the one hundred and fifty-five years of history and tradition of the glassworks is wealth, from which it is possible to draw and develop into other dimensions during the creation of new and attractive collections. The glassworks also acquires further ideas from renowned glass artists and partners or from dealers and design specialists encountered at trade fairs, which it regularly participates in.

The establishment of the glassworks, in the heart of the world-known spa town of Karlovy Vary, is visited by significant clientele, including Royal Families, their focus set on production at this challenging level. Luxurious Moser crystal is sought after for its exceptional originality by extraordinary personalities in the world to this today. Among the famous owners of the crystal are Queen Elizabeth II of England and other members of the Royal Family, Prince Rainier II. of Monaco, Japanese Princess Sayako, King Rama IX of Thailand. Luxurious table sets are used for example, in the Spanish and Danish Royal Courts, in the Turkish and Brazilian Presidential Palaces, the Vatican, and of course at Prague Castle. Other admirers of Moser crystal from the Middle East include Sheikh Abdul Mohsin of Saudi Arabia, Fuad I, King of Egypt, Mohammed Reza Pahlavi, Shah of Iran, and the Royal Courts of Bahrain, Algeria and Jordan.

What does a piece from Moser represent?

Moser drinking collections, interior accessories and artistic engravings in distinctive colours and original contours are among the finest works in the field of handcrafted luxurious crystal in the world. Each work is characterized by traditional craftsmanship, unrivalled quality and the beauty of the crystal glass and unique design.

08 Queen Elizabeth II of England and President of the Czech Republic Vรกclav Klaus, 1996 09 Juan Carlos I, the King of Spain, Spanish Royal Wedding, 2004 10 Russian President Vladimir Putin and President of the Czech Republic Vรกclav Klaus, 2006 11 Royal wedding of Frederik, Crown Prince of Denmark and Mary Donaldson, 2004 12 Lady Hamilton hand cut and gilded bowl

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Flourishing Flowers It was in 1995 when visiting a flower boutique on a trip to Paris that American Jeff Leatham was first inspired by the beauty of flowers. His talents for floral design were quickly recognised and today Leatham works as an event designer, installation artist and Artistic Director at the Four Seasons Hotel George V. A master of diversity and invention, every day sees a new design and a chance to try something out of the ordinary, as he adorns the hotel with his splendid creations.

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riginally from Ogden, Utah, Jeff Leatham previously worked as a model for three years, before delving into the creative world of floristry. After realising his passion in 1995, his big break into the world of floral design came in 1996 when he was offered a job at the Four Seasons Hotel in Beverly Hills, where he worked for four years. It wasn’t long before he was offered a position at the Four Seasons Hotel George V in Paris, who called upon his artistic talents for the hotel’s reopening in 1999. With the reopening on the brink of a brand new millennium, the hotel wanted a brand new décor to match; restoring its two hundred and forty five rooms and suites, along with its public spaces, banquet rooms and beautiful spa. All of which provided space for Jeff to work his magic, and turn flowers from being ornaments into becoming a living painting, and a necessary presence.

Continuing his work at the hotel to this day, Leatham has given the Four Seasons a dimension which is totally out of the ordinary, thanks to his generous and unusual creations. He cites his father, a self-taught landscape

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artist, as having a big influence over his work and says that he also gets inspiration from magazines and film, particularly films from the 1950s and 1960s. He summarises his style in three key words; clean, simple and chic. “Flowers bring out the passion in people,” Leatham says. “They exude energy, colour, light; and they lift us above the brouhaha of everyday life.”

This is certainly evident in the florist’s work at the Hotel George V, from the majestic arrangements adorning the hotel lobby and restaurants, through to the more intimate bouquets which are placed on tables in guestrooms.

Colours are chosen to suit the season, with bright tones in winter and darker shades in summer. Leatham particularly likes to make various shades of colour stand out in the monochromatic bouquets he favours. Moved by orchids, arum lilies and amaryllis, he also has a fondness for tulips and roses, although cites magnolias as his favourite flower.

At times Leatham incorporates inanimate objects into his work such as peacock feathers, sculptures or uniquely shaped vases, which he skilfully ties into the arrangements. His creations echo the warm tones of the hotel and each bouquet complements the area which it is placed, in a perfect fusion of

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splendour, light and harmony.

Jeff receives up to 15,000 flowers per week to use in his pieces, which are crafted together with the help of his 7 assistants. Of managing his team Leatham says, “It is extremely important to me that my employees have both fun and passion. I constantly strive to emulate this fun and passion in my work and with my team.” From the intimate to the theatrical, the ephemeral work of Jeff and his team has become part of the extraordinary heritage of the legendary Hotel George V. His projects extend from the Four Seasons however, and in the last year Leatham has worked on floral arrangements for the wedding of Tina Turner, as well as a Royal Wedding in Qatar. Jeff says the floral industry has been thriving, especially over the past ten years, and the biggest challenge now is finding good designers who know how to mix different colours and flowers.

With a number of upcoming projects on the horizon, as well as Christmas at the Four Seasons Hotel George V just around the corner, the future is certainly flourishing for Jeff Leatham. www.jeffleatham.com

01 Lobby at the Four seasons Hotel George V in Paris 02 Portrait of Jeff Leatham 03 One of Leatham’s stunning bouquets

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Fashion

Here Comes the Bride A bride’s big day forms one of the most important events in a woman’s life, with her future dreams all wrapped up in an ethereal blaze of silk, satin and lace. With just one special dress to embody the ideals of the union, UAE based designer Rami Al Ali lends a touch of couture to this special occasion. Durrah looks at the history of Al Ali’s designs and explores his new collection, with a few special bridal tips from the designer himself.

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ami Al Ali was born in Deir ez-Zor, Syria, to father Ghassan, an architect, and mother Sameeha, a graduate in Middle Eastern history. Being the only boy of five children, Al Ali took an early interest in style and fashion. Fascinated by the dramatic transformation of his sisters – in both appearance and confidence – after stepping into a glamorous dress, he was mesmerised by the power of fashion.

Al Ali’s small town upbringing meant breaking into the fashion arena took longer than planned, and opportunity for career growth and industry exposure was minimal. This led to a brave and bold move to Syria’s capital city, Damascus, where in 1991 Al Ali joined the College of Fine Arts to study Visual Communications. It was during his time studying that Al Ali started to experiment with his interest in creative pursuits, excelling in subjects that allowed him freedom of expression, such as interior and graphic design.

Al Ali knew he had to think big to succeed so travelled to the United Arab Emirates to gain valuable international experience within the prestigious fashion houses. He quickly gained respect from the industry, resulting in an immediate, loyal client base, which ultimately led to the creation of the Rami Al Ali label in

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2000. The Rami Al Ali woman ranged from sweet bride to blossoming socialite, with femininity being his core design aesthetic. A number of inspiring shows around the Gulf led to his designs occupying the covers of leading fashion magazines and red carpet celebrations, where he participated in many large award ceremonies.

Through growing recognition of the brand, Al Ali’s designs soon caught the attention of international corporations including La Mode En Images, which led to the agency selecting Al Ali to participate, along with a select number of key international designers, at the 2006 Asian Olympic Games in Qatar. Global Austrian crystal brand Swarovski followed suit by choosing Al Ali to be a part of their book, UNBRIDALED, alongside revered couture veterans Giorgio Armani, Vivienne Westwood and John Galliano, amongst others. The collaboration demonstrated his ability to participate in an international market. In 2007, Al Ali was invited to showcase his collection at the launch of Abu Dhabi Fashion Week, where he was selected to feature alongside industry icon Valentino - the only designer from the region bestowed with this honour.

Al Ali’s ultimate breakthrough came in 2009, when his Spring/Summer couture collection graced the runway at Rome’s AltaRoma couture week. This was the first time Al Ali engaged professionally with the European fashion media, and his success was further cemented by being named as one of the top 50 most influential Arabs by The Middle East Magazine. In January 2012, Ali Ali debuted at the Couture Fashion Week in Paris, showcasing his Spring/Summer 2012 collection amongst 02

the crème de la crème of the fashion world, including Elie Saab, Chanel, Valentino and Dior.

This season, Rami Al Ali’s bridal collection is centered on the ideals of femininity; with light, sheer tops portraying romantic notions, offset further by delicate lace and layering. Keeping with tradition, the exclusive eight-piece collection is shaped from an antique palette of pale hues, with soft neutrals and off-white shades leading the line, all presented in a matte finish for a refreshing take on matrimonial style.

Bringing the fairytale into a modern context, Al Ali keeps his signature profile as streamline cuts dominate the collection. Figure-hugging silhouettes give full focus to the natural female contours, while exquisite statement trains and full-length sleeves deliver an element of drama.

Attention to detail is key, as fabrics are transformed from their natural state into unique new textures, creating a fresh and contemporary line of contrasting visuals.

Veils are complemented further with the introduction of a dense-weaved organza bridal cape, perfectly matched to the elaborate beadwork of its gown, offering a regal effect. Sheer lace is overlaid with handcrafted satin sequins for a diaphanous finale, reminiscent of the elegance and allure of vintage Hollywood.

Now on his fourth consecutive season in Paris, Al Ali’s transition from daydreamer to global trendsetter is complete. The collection is available now from the Rami Al Ali showroom, Al Wasl Road, Jumeirah, Dubai.

For appointments, call 04 394 5607. www.ramialali.com

01 Image from the collection, shot in Dubai’s Jumeirah Zabeel Saray Hotel 02 The ultimate juxtaposition of over the top detailing and minimalist silhouette 03 The collection is feminine, delicate and romantic 04 Portrait of Rami Al Ali

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Tips for the big day, from Rami Al Ali

Preparation I always advise brides-to-be to start looking for their gown early; the more time there is to prepare for the big day, the better for the bride. Constructing a bridal gown takes a minimum of eight weeks – from the concept and sampling, to the fitting and final delivery – so it’s important to factor this process in. It’s also a one-time thing so everything should be perfect.

Be Yourself The most important thing to consider when choosing your bridal gown is to always be yourself. A lot of brides come to me wanting to try something completely new but I advise them to choose a style that complements not only their shape but also their character.

Fittings Brides-to-be usually have about three fittings but in my opinion you can never have too many. I find that most women are happy to go ahead with more fittings because it’s for the most important day of their life so they never see it as an obligation. It’s important to take into account factors like whether the bride is trying to lose weight leading up to the big day, as this can dramatically affect the fit of the gown. For me, the more fittings, the better.

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Swarovski, the global leader in cut crystal and fashion jewellery, has joined forces with six young designers from the Gulf Cooperation Council region, to take part in the ‘Crystal loves abaya’ campaign. The designers have used their superb couture skills to reinterpret the graceful abaya using Swarovski crystals in new and exciting contemporary designs.

01 Medici by Sheikha Hend Al Qassemi 02 Endemage 03 Abeer Al Suwaidi

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he abaya’s elegant fluidity lends itself perfectly to embroidery and appliqué using crystals from Swarovski.

Now, six talented designers have elevated abaya couture to an art form by each displaying their skills in capsule collections of three or four abayas. The six designers are proprietors of their own successful brands, and their new designs reflect creativity, ambition and individuality.

From the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is Riyadh-based Hania Albraikan for Hania, and Jeddah-based Rawan Azhar of Ta Marbota. Hania sources the highest quality fabrics from around the world for her designs, and has amassed a huge following from some of the Middle East’s most influential women. The attention to detail in each elaborate piece is truly remarkable, with intricate beading, lace embellishment, delicate feather edging and sequined paneling being just a few of the many techniques used.

Rawan Azhar’s aesthetic is about elegance, grace and femininity; her work has been featured in a number of avant-garde fashion blogs and publications. Her unrelenting and steady passion for experimentation and innovation makes her a design force as well as a vibrant contributor to the cultural and creative community in Saudi Arabia and the Gulf, the latest which is Women Appreciation Month (WAM) 2013 where Ta Marbota will be the only Abaya Sponsor.

Based in Qatar is designer Sheikha Hend Al Qassemi for Medici; a multi-faceted Emirati, accomplished artist, successful entrepreneur as well as committed philanthropist.

Her designs have been showcased in various fashion shows

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throughout the UAE, gaining her an instant and loyal following amongst the most fashionable local women.

In 2010, she launched her signature boutique where in addition to retailing her designs, Sheikha Hend Al Qassemi also hosts monthly fashion shows for fashion designers from the region to promote their creativity in UAE. Omani Lubna Al Zakwani for label Endemage, embodies the chic and fashion savvy through a range of ultra-elegant, floor-skimming, East-meets-West designs. Born out of the minds of Omani sisters, Lubna and Nadia, Endemage is focused on revolutionizing the world of high end women’s wear and Arab fashion, offering a more edgy and modern take on upscale dressing. With the sisters dedicated to innovation and design, while not forgetting their strong culture, the brands creations are centralized around an Arab-chic style with an air of Arabian romanticism.

The two United Arab Emirates based designers are Abeer Al Suwaidi for her eponymous brand, and Sara Al Madani for Rouge Couture. Abeer is best known for her trendsetting work with abayas and in transforming the traditional garment into contemporary forms of art while maintaining great respect to her culture. In 2009, Abeer founded USH, the first multiple-brand abaya store in the UAE (the largest in the region) to promote home grown talent. The boutique showcases the work of more than 40 local and regional established designers as well as emerging talent, and her revolutionary designs have won audience applause and critical appreciation in equal measure.

Sara Al Madani started her journey in to the world of fashion at the age of fifteen, leading to the creation of Rouge Couture, her own fashion label. Following her success as a young fashion designer, she was elected as ambassador to represent the ‘Sharjah Business Woman Council’, and today remains a proud board member. Sara al Madani is also honored to be a Brand Ambassador for NaturaBissé in the Middle East, which is a luxury skincare and spa brand from Barcelona, Spain. Creativity is her forte and she is determined to leave a print in the fashion industry, as she continues to grow along with her business.

Each of the multi-talented designers were commissioned to apply their creative vision to creating abaya designs that bring to life their individual brand identity and design language. Flemming Nielsen, Vice President Operations Asia South Swarovski Professional, underlined that this latest Swarovski initiative demonstrates the company’s commitment to supporting designers within the region, as well as providing a platform for the contemporary and modern interpretation of crystals.

“Swarovski is proud to partner with these contemporary abaya designers and continue one of the company’s most treasured traditions. The philosophy of working with design talent has permeated every aspect of this family run company since it was founded in 1895,” he says. “The initiative is also closely allied with Swarovski’s long history of creative collaborations with the world’s most prestigious names in the fashion industry, some of which date back to the early 20th century.”

Visitors to Dubai’s The Empty Quarter gallery, which is located at the Dubai International Financial Center, will be able to enjoy these contemporary masterpieces from November, and observe first-hand the breathtaking effect of Swarovski crystal embellishment on sleekly stylish abayas with a powerful modern edge.

04 Hania 05 Ta Marbota 06 Rouge Couture

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Fashion

Chloé founder Gaby Aghion was known for her use of an unusual alphabetized naming convention for collections and garments. Last year, as the brand celebrated 60 years of creation, Creative Director Clare Waight Keller revived this concept of naming for the new bag lines of the French fashion house. Following the release of the ‘a’ Alice bag, this season the ‘b’ Baylee bag is launched, and is now available at Saks Fifth Avenue in Bahrain.

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he first fashion house to produce luxury ready-to-wear clothing, Chloé has long been known creating beautiful, high-quality clothing and accessories. French designer Gaby Aghion launched the label in 1952, rejecting the stiff formality of 1950s fashion with her soft, feminine, body conscious clothes made from fine luxury fabrics. Today, the house is overseen by Creative Director Clare Waight Keller, who has been with the label since 2011.

“Chloé speaks to me on so many levels,” says Keller.

First, because it’s feminine. I love the free-spirited, effortless attitude, the kind of girl Chloé is. It’s about those fabulous pieces you wear so many different ways and the spirit of confidence you have when you wear them. It’s real.”

Since the winter 2012 runway show, Keller has reclaimed this free-spirited attitude, as Chloé’s accessories and ready-to-wear pieces have evolved to take on a more relaxed aesthetic. The new direction is evident in the alphabetised bags that Keller launched in recognition of Gaby Aghion’s earlier work.

is for Baylee

Beginning with the letter ‘a’, the Alice bag was created for the winter 2012-2013 collection, and is a reflection of modern and urban elegance. Carved in soft skins accentuated with python or vegetable leather, the bags texture is enhanced by its two-tone look offering a wide combination of colours from pastels to more subdued shades. What simply characterizes the Alice is its outlook, which is both casual and sophisticated.

The bags pure and generous shapes were inspired by the 1970s and its two large outer pockets and supple bottom emphasize its ‘sport chic’ spirit.

The focus of this season however, is on the letter ‘b’, and the new versatile Baylee bag. Carefree and chic, the Baylee is an ideal day bag, which can change appearance with the pull of a zipper. Ultra supple, changeable and customized with metallic detailing, the Baylee reflects the assured Chloé attitude, which lends itself to every woman’s fancy. The bag is bi-coloured and the strap is fitted with a metallic plate that can be placed on the shoulder, which is how Clare Waight Keller presented it on the runway last March.

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Keller explains, “The Baylee has echoes of all the classic boyfriend bags I love; simple in shape, practical and ultimately with a chic attitude. Its design, its signature, is best epitomised in a bi-colour version where two bright colours offer a variety of combinations. I love the slouchy softness of its leather and the strong gold hardware zips linked together with our iconic Chloé chain bracelet”.

When hand carried, or in exceptional versions such as ostrich or alligator, the Baylee becomes more feminine, a different bag altogether. Its volume is generous, useful, and its unique metallic details are a

stylish feature as is the zip closure from which hangs a fine chain bracelet. A bag with a strong personality, the Baylee will no doubt be this season’s most coveted accessory.

For the ‘c’, soon to follow with the spring 2014 collection, Clare Waight Keller wanted to lend her name to a modern and chic shoulder bag, the Clare.

The Chloé attitude evolves, reinvents itself and breathes new life into Gaby Aghion’s alphabet - a letter for each season, a feminine name, a unique bag.

The Baylee Bag, along with other Chloe products, is sold at Saks Fifth Avenue Bahrain.

When hand carried, or in exceptional versions such as ostrich or alligator, the Baylee becomes more feminine, a different bag altogether.

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01 Baylee handbag in Oxblood Crocodile Leather 02 Baylee handbag in Marshmallow Grey/Black Bat Calfskin 03 Clare handbag in Teak brown, available soon 04 Baylee handbag in Yummy Cookie/Brownie Brown Calfskin 05 The zipped top is secured by a lobster-fastening gold chain that doubles up as a bracelet

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Masterpiece

Alexandr Onishenko’s heavily textured paintings are so vibrant and captivating, that it’s no surprise the artist quickly rose from selling his work on the famous Charles Bridge in 1991, to being “in demand” for shows and exhibitions.

Onishenko’s Impressionist paintings depict the most radiant of colours and deepest of shadows, enhanced by his special technique of working on a black canvas. The Prague based artist originally from the Ukraine is now a well established artist; in 1998 he received the Masaryk Academy of Sciences award and the Franz Kafka medal, and his work can be found in every corner of the world.

On the Black Canvas

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Alexandr talks to Durrah about his life as an artist and his journey so far.

How did you first develop an interest in art?

I was born in 1957 in Chernigov, in the heart of the Ukraine where I spent many hours of my early childhood perched in the window of our family›s flat, observing the comings and goings of street life. Before long I was scuttling through the streets with a box of pencils and my observations developed into sketches and my artistic inclination evolved into passion. I then studied art at school from 1968, followed by the Institute of Art in Kiev until 1979.

What was the turning point of your career?

In 1990 I decided to settle in Yugoslavia, the country where I had my first taste of comparative freedom, but conflict in the region ended this particular dream.

Providentially my next choice was Prague and in 1991 I moved to the city and country that has become my home.

Prague is, and always has been, a city rich in culture, established and experimental artistic endeavours. In the early years following the ‹velvet revolution’, it became a Mecca for those seeking cultural freedom, artistic expression and affordable living. The city buzzed with the excitement of Paris in the 1930s…it was the place to be.

Possessing little more than my artistic talents, I carved out a place for myself selling my work on the Charles Bridge, alongside countless other artists. Nevertheless, there I found my first admirers, friends, patrons and critics from across the world. These chance meetings gave me possibility to exhibit in London, New York and France. In 1992 I became a member of the Union of Artists in Prague and began to establish a serious reputation, painting Prague as it had never been seen before, from the rooftops.

Exhibitions in Prague as well as Munich and Wolfsberg 01 Golden Lane 2007 02 Father’s Umbrella 1999 03 Prague Winter 2012

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in Germany followed in 1993 and Andorra and Basel in Switzerland later in the year.

A crucial turning point came in the following year 1994 when after a number of successful exhibitions and with a growing reputation I had the funds to open my own gallery – Galerie Jakubská. I could at last show my paintings as I wanted, have a place for debating, for concerts, a place to share with other artists that I admired and respected.

What are your signature techniques in your artwork?

The unique technique of painting on black canvas, which I invented myself, is an essential aspect of my work. The canvas is first treated with a special pit-black medium and using the black background allows me to work without black on my palette. Painting without the black is actually a victory because it enables me to explore newly-found extremes of light and darkness.

Through the contrast that the black canvas provides, colours are given greater intensity and vibrancy and shadows are brought to new depths

Throughout your many travels and experiences, what or who has been your biggest inspiration?

In the artistic journey ‘The Path’ is more important than the destination and ‘The Question’ is valued above the answer. I can say that I am fascinated and inspired by nature itself and each painting I create is an attempt to give voice to the power, beauty and mystery of nature, despite the fact that when an artist attempts to uncover nature’s secrets - nature always wins.

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Possessing little more than my artistic talents, I carved out a place for myself selling my work on the Charles Bridge, alongside countless other artists.

Do you have any upcoming plans for exhibits in the Middle East?

Any artwork has actually two lives: one when it is created; and the second one – when it is presented to the public. In this respect, it is vitally essential for any artist to present his work as much as possible to a large audience, which allows creating a dialogue between the artist and the viewer.

I would definitely be glad and proud to add to my list of exhibitions the Middle East countries, especially taking into account the growing interest of art lovers from that part of world in the last couple of years. Shall I have any interesting proposal to present my paintings in the Middle East – I would not miss the opportunity.

What are your dreams for the future?

The talent for painting I understand as a sort of mission and all of my plans are always related to that mission.

I wish to be able to continue creating; because the moment when I start drawing I live only in the reality of the picture and I feel extremely excited, as if I am discovering something totally new, and I feel like I am not in this world at all.

What advice would you give to aspiring artists?

The question that never goes away for an artist is – where do the paintings come from? I myself, would be glad, never to find an answer.

For any artist the main thing is: how to keep looking, without finding!

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Eloquent Expressions 088

Masterpiece

Focusing on the Arabic word as the main object of artistic creativity in his creations, Hassan Massoudy uses his brush strokes to create impressive, expressive, harmonious designs. Durrah takes a look into this artist’s contexts of beauty.

By Amal Al-Sorany

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orn in Najaf, south of Iraq, Massoudy received his early training in calligraphy on the hands of Iraqi Calligraphy Masters. In 1961, he moved to Baghdad looking for better prospects and in the process learnt more about this ancient cherished art that uses Arabic typography as a representation of beauty. After the political restrictions and turmoil, Massoudy moved to Paris in 1969 and by 1975, had completed an arts degree from École des Beaux-Arts.

After his experience in France, Hassan Massoudy as an artist was influenced by both Eastern and Western giants and he soon developed a unique artistic style which gave him international recognition. Meticulous lines and magnificent colour combinations take Massoudy’s art to a whole new level as each of his letters and diacritical marks are illustrated in harmonious proportions.

Hassan’s experience went beyond the traditional ink on paper presentation; rather his first public performance was a mix of unique poetry recital, music and calligraphy before a live audience across France and even expanded to Europe.

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Along with musician Fawzy Al Aiedy and actor Guy Jacquet, in the year 1971 Hassan Massoudy created the show “Arabesque” and went on to perform this exotic show of art for thirteen years.

Hassan’s next endeavour was to create the «Calligraphie d›ombre et de lumiere» or «calligraphy of light and shade», which is where his talent in calligraphy was displayed before the very eyes of a live audience.

With an exotic mix of oriental and occidental geometry in his creations, the past and present are merged into a magical traditional modernity of Arabic sensational beauty, with music, performance and calligraphy all rolled into one.

Graceful letters that become the central image of every masterpiece, Massoudy’s artistic presentations are employed in astonishingly varied and imaginative ways.

“If the exact point of balance is not reached, if it is a failure, then you discover your own limits, your humanity and the fragility of the human condition. Calligraphy can become an indicator of the absence of centre, of imbalance. This experience then evolves into knowledge of the self and perhaps even improvement if you pick yourself up right away and start again,” Massoudy explains.

Having taken the Arabic alphabets far beyond pen and paper, Massoudy has exhibited his work in

numerous art galleries around the world. His work has been displayed in the British Museum in London, in addition to museums in Switzerland, France, Japan, Singapore, and the United Arab Emirates.

Presenting his work in his own native words, Massoudy’s artwork portrays overt symbolism and abstract themes that astonish audiences and attract marvel, having adapted this cherished and popular form of art, he has successfully brought together eastern and western themes in addition to mixing ancient and modern motifs. His work represents a strikingly sophisticated exploration of context painted in large daring strokes usually set against a striking swath of colour, with soft combinations of different hues.

Audiences who appreciate calligraphy as a cherished art will admire each stroke from within his works and the features that make up the elements of meticulously choreographed alphabets, developed to portray exquisitely eloquent expressions. Massoudy executes his characters with the calculated assertion of master calligraphers, creating a balance between form and control that are simultaneously perfected yet at ease.

01 From ‘Sur terre il y a place pour tous’ Schiller Water based pigments on paper 02 Each of his letters and diacritical marks are illustrated in harmonious proportions 03 Hassan Massoudy in his studio 04 Meticulous lines and magnificent colour combinations

hassan.massoudy.pagesperso-orange.fr/english

Graceful letters that become the central image of every masterpiece, Massoudy’s artistic presentations are employed in astonishingly varied and imaginative ways.

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Culture

Art from the Orient 01

Located in Paris on the iconic Faubourg St-HonorĂŠ, the Galerie Alhambra specialises in Orientalist Paintings and Sculptures. Run by Islamic Art expert Anne-Sophie Joncoux Pilorget, the Gallery exhibits its high level works of art in Paris only by appointment and organizes temporary exhibitions in exclusive places, such as the Majestic Barriere Palace. Durrah takes a look at the Orientalist movement and some of the pieces on display at this prestigious gallery.

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01 Zohra the courtesan by Léon Max Pimienta. Gilt bronze and white marble decorated with blue glass cabochons and a veil of black metal 02 Arab praying by Antoine Bofill.

Gilt bronze and white marble 03 Young oriental playing harp

by Louis Hottot. Bronze with several patinas 04 Warrior carrying mukahla by Affortunato Gori. Gilt bronze and white marble

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rientalism is a movement started in European Literature in the 17th and 18th century. In 1704, the Arabian tale One thousand and one nights was translated into French for the first time, enabling Europe to start discovering Eastern poetry. Soon diplomats returning from Turkey or Persia were bringing in Europe Islamic manuscripts and other luxury works of art. At the end of the 18th century, the military campaign in Egypt, headed by Napoleon, also contributed to the development of European interest for the East. Napoleon ordered the Description de l’Égypte, a series of publications that offered for the time a comprehensive scientific description of ancient and modern Egypt, as well as its natural history. These different events revealed the East to the West, epitomized by the famous French writer Victor Hugo, who wrote in 1829 in the Orientales preface, “Orient has become a global concern”. The next year, a new word appeared in French, ‘Orientalism’, embracing numerous aspects of the attraction of Westerners to the East.

The Lure of the East became a new source of inspiration for European artists, especially for painters. The fascination for the East started in France with artists like Delacroix, then spread in Europe and eventually reached America. At its inception, a lot of painters joined the movement, most of them also being sculptors and whose works were quite imaginative and exotic until the end of 19th century. Hence the first sculpture the Gallery exhibits is a Young oriental playing Harp by Louis Hottot (1834-1905).

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The bronze is of a young woman wearing necklace and earrings, gently gathering her skirt.

By contrast, after 1900, Orientalism sought for more authenticity, and artists wanted to know more about the Arabic culture and peoples. Several artists started to learn Arabic language, settling in North Africa or Egypt for some years or even for the rest of their lives. This is the case of Leon Max Pimienta, another sculptor represented in Gallery Alhambra, who was born in Algeria, but later moved to Paris to study Fine Arts. As a renowned artist, the French state bought some of his works, although few of Pimienta’s pieces have been identified. The golden bronze eagle that adorns the entrance of the National Gallery in Washington is one of his works. The Gallery shows a rare model of Zohra, a white marble and gilt bronze sculpture, unique by the realism of the costume and the gesture of the woman who modestly tightens her veil around her face. This is extremely rare in works of art as most of the time artists prefer to show the face of their models, but Pimienta chose to accurately express what he saw in North Africa. The piece is also noticeable by the richness of the materials; copper with bronze patina and silver for the hair, white marble for the face, and glass paste for jewellery.

Another sculpture, made by Antoine Bofill, is extremely impressive. Made of white marble and gilt bronze, the sculpture represents a man praying. Dressed in white with bare feet, chest slightly tilted towards the place of prostration and his hands up to his ears, this man is humbly

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ready to bow. This work magnificently represents the pious man at the time of prayer and reflection, as he humbly submits to Allah. Spanish native Antoine Bofill studied Fine Arts in Barcelona before moving to France where he exhibits at the Salon between 1894 and 1910.

Alhambra’s Gallery currently offers about forty works of art, paintings and sculptures, made by thirty European artists between 1860 and 1960. Collectors today seek for works of art depicting their own countries and the art market can offer subjects taking places in North Africa, Egypt, Palestine or Turkey. This offer strongly narrows when it comes to Saudi Arabia or the Emirates, as travel within the Arab Peninsula was a very difficult journey for artists at this time, with no structures or towns to welcome them. Nonetheless, the heady world of Orientalism has given birth to spectacular artistic representations of the Middle East.

From desert landscapes to scenes representing a lively street, Western artists shared their sincere love and fascination for the Arab world. When we hear the word “Orientalism”, we think first and foremost about paintings. Orientalist sculptures are less known, less exhibited and less expensive. Reasonable prices still applies on the market, which could grow steadily in the future. To be guided into the fascinating charms of the East, please contact the Alhambra gallery. www.galerie-alhambra.com

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Photography

Picture Perfect There’s something instantly recognisable about the stunning photography of Tariq Dajani. His poetic portraits of the Arabian horse and Arabian hunting falcons, for which he has become best known, contain an elusive quality that draws the eye in, displaying intellectual depth and classical realism. His work is widely exhibited and collected worldwide, including by members of several Arab royal families and he has recently released the book Asil: Photographic Studies of the Purebred Arabian Horse, with a foreword by HRH Princess Alia Al Hussein.

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Durrah caught up with Tariq for an exclusive in depth interview, to hear more about his work.

How did your journey as a photographer begin?

I grew up in an environment where my parents always encouraged my brothers and myself to do things with our free time, to use and develop our minds with whatever skills or talents we might have had, rather than to sit idly watching TV shows. We did play sports games and the like with other kids in the neighbourhood but we also learned to be creative with our minds and make things with our hands.

My interest in photography came somewhat late, after completing my first university degree, which was in something totally unrelated. However, that interest was a continuation of finding creative outlets to express myself that began many years earlier. Towards the end of my time in high school in Jordan, I had some mentoring by a wonderful Jordanian artist, Mohanna Durra, who is now a national treasure. He opened my heart, mind and eyes to some wonderful things in art. I wasn›t mature enough to realise it at the time, but his lessons came back to me later in life with such clarity that I think they were possibly there all along, in my subconscious, guiding my thoughts and vision.

After completing my schooling in Jordan I went to England for higher education. Initially I studied sciences and completed a degree in electronic engineering at university, but I continued to pursue creative activities as well: art and music - where I played in several university bands - and eventually photography. I returned to university to do another degree course in photography and art and supported myself by working part-time

as an assistant to some of London›s top commercial photographers. That’s how I cut my teeth in photography and gained some invaluable experience.

What has the reaction to your work been like?

With time, practise and experience, the quality of my work - by which I mean vision, approach, execution and presentation - gradually improved, and along with that, the reaction to my work also became better. Things take time and one has to hone one›s abilities before they can be recognised as being worthy of anything, which I believe is the way it should be.

However, there is also another factor other than determination, hard work and skill, which is luck. Despite improving my photographic skills, I found myself in the wrong place at the wrong time for doors to open. By chance, I later found myself in the right place at the right time and then things started happening.

Let me explain. I was living and working in Stockholm, Sweden, when 9/11 happened. From then on I experienced some form of unconscious negativity in the country both when pursuing commercial work and when presenting my personal photographic projects. Years later, in frustration, I returned to the Middle East where I was met with open arms. My good friend the wonderful Jordanian artist, architect, lecturer and cultural advisor, Ali Maher, who sadly passed away recently said to me: don›t bang your head against the wall trying to get an exhibition in Europe where they›re not interested in you, come home and we›ll put your work in the best museums and galleries!

What was it that drew you to photograph Arabian Horses?

I have always found horses to be fascinating creatures. So at a certain point, I felt confident that I could photograph them the way I wanted to. It didn›t take long afterwards to think about doing a project on Arabians. After all they are beautiful, intelligent and inquisitive in their nature, loyal to their (kind) masters, graceful in their movement, compact in their physique yet stronger and faster than seemingly more powerful horses, their stamina is unsurpassed and they are adaptable to almost every situation and demand.

Arabian horses are the stuff of legends and fairy tales, and much of it is based on truth. It is not for nothing that they are so greatly respected and prized.

For me, I have to add that there is the added element of these horses being a part of an Arab heritage which I can also lay claim to. Not least at a time when Arabs may be regarded somewhat negatively in the world, I am pleased that as an Arab photographer I can contribute with something positive to raise a general perception of this creature of wonder that ostensibly came from the Arab world.

Tell us about Saqr, and the photography of birds.

The project on the hunting falcons, Saqr, was a sort of continuation of the Arabian horse project: same approach of posing the subject against a painted studio backdrop, using lighting and props to produce portrait studies; also, the falcon is another important symbol of Arab Bedu heritage.

01 Brown Arabian Horse 02 A portrait of Tariq Dajani 03 The book – Asil: Photographic Studies of the Purebred Arabian Horse 04 Image of an Arabian falcon 05 Two Arabian horses

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As with the horses, the project was completed over a period of several years. The nature of the studio set up allowed for continuity of the style and feel of the work. Unlike with the horses, animals that I had been very familiar with when I undertook that project, I knew little about falcons and had a lot to learn to be able to photograph them properly in the manner that I wished.

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How has the culture of the Middle East influenced your work?

One is influenced to varying degrees by everything that one encounters in life. Having been partly brought up in the Middle East by an Arab father will certainly have affected and shaped my thoughts and feelings in a major way. I might have simply answered this question by saying that the Arabian horse and the hunting falcon are important parts of Arab culture and heritage which I am connecting with, and that would be true, but it would only be partly true of how I am influenced and affected by the culture of the region. There are other things as well that go much deeper which are not so easy to identify and articulate. Perhaps a great thinker like the late Edward Said, or Amin Maalouf would have some answers!

Can you tell us about your artistic process?

I tend to be reluctant to say much about these things, because I don›t see that they matter unless someone wants to emulate the way I work. My mentor Mohanna Durra once said something along the lines of: your mind shapes what you feel in your heart; your eye guides your hands which hold the tool. If I were a writer I would express myself in words, if a painter, with paintings. As I›m a photographer, I use photographic tools to express myself: cameras, lenses, lighting equipment, backdrops, and of course, computers, as most things are processed digitally these days. My approach is that I like to keep things as simple as possible. I suppose, over the years, I have developed a certain look or style that can be seen in much of my work. Occasionally somebody will comment and ask me about it, but I don’t really know what it is.

I tend to know what I like and what I don’t like, how I want to shape the image and how not. Somebody else would do it differently. I just do what feels right within the context of what I’m trying to produce at the time.

What has been some of your most memorable exhibitions?

I have had a few solo exhibitions and taken part in a few group exhibitions, many of which were memorable in their own ways. Perhaps the one that stands out most was my first Asil, Arabian horse exhibition in 2008 in Jordan which was opened by HRH Princess Alia Al Hussein.

The Princess, a passionate Arabian horse person, showed a real interest in the work as we toured around and she subsequently supported my efforts with that project and others thereafter. As you know, she contributed with a nice introduction to my recently published book: Asil, Photographic Studies of the Arabian horse.

I recently had an exhibition of the Saqr hunting falcon portraits in the Emirates Palace hotel of Abu Dhabi, where Gallery One which was promoting the show, framed the large prints and presented the work in quite a magnificent way. That presentation stands out in my mind.

Next summer 2014, I shall have an exhibition of Asil, the Arabian horse, and Saqr, the hunting falcon in Kasser Rassu Gallery, in Marbella, Spain. This will be the first time that I shall combine both these bodies of work. That is very exciting for me and it is what my thoughts turn to now, not the past but the future! I would also love to be able to show my work again in Bahrain. Perhaps soon.

What fascinates you about making books and what are some of your upcoming titles?

A well-made book is a beautiful object to behold, and if the content is able to reflect the presentation, it truly becomes something of value. I love good books - literary books to read and visual books to look through - and I try to surround myself with such material. Producing my own book was an interesting experience. While the process of producing it didn’t interest me much, I had two objectives in mind with producing the book: it was a way of completing the Arabian horse series and compiling it in a single body of work; and it was a way to allow the series to be seen by people who might be interested in such material but wouldn›t see it otherwise.

Now that the horse book is out, I am thinking about producing a similar book on the Saqr falcon series. But these things aren›t so easy and require time, effort and money. I can manage the first part but think I shall need to find a sponsor for the latter. Inshallah, we›ll see.

What are your hopes for the future?

I’ve always got a few ideas about new projects, but I never like to talk about them until I›ve made some progress. What I will say is that I doubt I will be using the same approach as I did with the horses and falcons, namely a studio set-up with lights and backdrop on location. One has to keep moving on and developing new ideas. www.tariqdajani.com

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Special Feature

All About Chocolate

For over three decades, passion, rigour and savoir-faire have been the driving force of the work and excellence that is La Maison du Chocolat. Founded in 1977 by Robert Linxe, the store has just opened its first Middle Eastern boutique in The Dubai Mall. Offering its exceptional, highly sought-after creations in a warm café setting from its exclusive Fashion Avenue location, La Maison du Chocolat’s creations are handmade with inimitable artistry, showcasing the brand’s incredible craftsmanship.

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obert Linxe – founder of La Maison du Chocolat – dedicated his life to chocolate. After learning his trade of chocolatiering in Bayonne and travelling to Switzerland to perfect his art; he had the courage in 1977 to open the first boutique dedicated exclusively to chocolate, on the prestigious Faubourg Saint-Honoré in Paris.

Linxe selected a boutique with a wine cellar, providing ideal conditions to preserve chocolate, and had his laboratory in the cellar for more than ten years.

Nicknamed ‘The Sorcerer of ganache’, Robert Linxe put his stamp of nobility on chocolate as an exceptional ingredient and in particular, the ganache; this silky texture made from chocolate and fresh cream, then enrobed in a fine layer of chocolate, resulting in intoxicating associations of delicate subtle flavours. One of his secrets was to dare to do what no one else had done before; expose another side of chocolate, less sweet, less childlike, more adult, and liberated from the excesses of sugar and cream.

Today, under the impetus of Nicolas Cloiseau, Master Chef of La Maison du Chocolat, the brand is committed to upholding the excellence of this renowned ganache and

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celebrating its uniqueness. Cloiseau maintains a signature taste throughout his work, from the delicate chocolate covering, to the sumptuous ganache, following through to the chocolate pastries. Perfect harmony on the palate highlights the singularity of these signature creations of unique taste.

In partnership with its suppliers, La Maison du Chocolat has always sought out the most exclusive cacao plantations in Venezuela, Ecuador, the Caribbean, Africa and Madagascar, selecting only the finest cacao beans and best vintages according to the profile desired. To obtain the unique character and complex taste, and to encourage the expression of the infinite variations of chocolate, La Maison du Chocolat uses its own assemblages of cacao vintages, otherwise known as ‘blends’, to achieve an exclusive couverture. The creation of a new ‘chocolate couverture of reference’ requires more than a year and a half of work of fine-tuning between Nicolas Cloiseau, the couverturier and his teams. This work requires total dedication to achieve the perfect balance between bitterness, acidity, and fruit or floral aromatic intensity. Then the wait-

ing game begins for the moment the full range of aromas to appear. Finally with these exclusive couvertures, La Maison du Chocolat commences the art of assemblage of its chocolates. Up to four different couvertures might be used to obtain the balance between grand cacao vintages, and the richness and nuance of the unique taste of a ganache.

The same rigorous standards for the raw materials apply to all products used. From hazelnuts and almonds in the pralines, fruits, and spices to fresh cream in the ganaches; only the finest ingredients are used in the recipes.

The level of mastery required for chocolate accounts for the exceptional craft and skills used. The chocolates are made by hand in an artisanal tradition in the atelier in Nanterre, outside of Paris, and then shipped to the boutiques in France and worldwide.

Made in small quantities of 30kg to respect the integrity of the recipes, the ganaches and pralines require constant attention and patience from experienced professionals. Each texture is poured and smoothed out on La Maison du Chocolat marble by hand, cut to the millimetre by hand, carefully enrobed and decorated chocolate by

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chocolate with a cornet or fork, controlled and selected, sampled and tasted, piece-by-piece. During the crystallisation phase, special dedication is paid to the temperature ranges necessary to reveal the flavours. Patience is a must with this noble material; time to rest, time to dry and time for craftsmanship. Unique pieces, whether they are for custom-made editions, limited editions or other occasions, showcase the artistic passion of the brand.

Today La Maison du Chocolat is located in six countries and has 37 boutiques with the most selective and prestigious addresses worldwide, and is the place to find chocolate in all its forms. Chocolate bonbons, pastries, confections, chocolate tarts, macarons with ganache, éclairs, ice creams and sorbets, iced or hot chocolate; all crafted in a spirit of refinement, perfect balance of flavours, surprising creations and reinterpreted classics, La Maison du Chocolat always offers a new interpretation of chocolate as the starting point of its creations.

The permanent collection of chocolate bonbons includes a selection of thirty recipes: plain ganaches, ganaches with fruit, ganaches with spices, and pralines in dark or milk chocolate. The delicacies, fruits enrobed in a fine layer of chocolate, rochers suisses with nougat, traditional mendiants, fruit pastes and caramels complete the broad range of gourmet delights.

Instantly recognizable, the chocolate assortments of La Maison du Chocolat are composed primarily of dark chocolates, packaged in luxurious boxes with grained paper, tied with ribbons in a palette of chocolate tones displaying the legendary codes of the brand.

With such savoir-faire, La Maison du Chocolat has become the brand of reference for luxury chocolate around the world. From Parisian grand artisan to international luxury chocolatier, La Maison du Chocolat carries on the tradition of its grand classics, and each season, crafts new ephemeral chocolate collections, showing that the art of chocolate is ever evolving.

The chocolates are made by hand in an artisanal tradition in the atelier in Nanterre, outside of Paris, and then shipped to the boutiques in France and worldwide.

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01 Gold snake skeleton necklace coated and decorated with chocolate for Boucheron’s 150th anniversary 02 ‘Boules d’étoiles’ or ‘Balls of stars’ 03 A selection of chocolates 04 La Maison du Chocolat handbag.

Image by Caroline Faccioli 05 Each chocolate is made with exceptional craftsmanship 06 Portrait of Geoffroy d’Anglejan

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What is your earliest memory of chocolate?

My first memory of chocolate dates back to my childhood and hot chocolate at breakfast. Even today, on weekends I take the time to savour it. It is an essential part of a French breakfast. There are also chocolate bars and pralines. I have always snacked on chocolate since I was young. Today I eat about 4.5 kilos of chocolate each month or more than 50 kilos a year! I can’t deny it; it’s my passion.

How did you develop your love of chocolate into a career?

This love of chocolate is first and foremost a result of my encounters, early on in my career, with grand personalities and the trendsetters of the profession.

First, the owner of Maison De Neuville with whom I collaborated for five years. Then, almost 18 years ago I met Robert Linxe, founder of La Maison du Chocolat.

With Robert Linxe, over the years our relationship has evolved from a professional relationship into a personal, filial relationship. My passion for chocolate is as strong today as it has ever been.

What does La Maison du Chocolat aim to achieve?

Our objective is to be the brand of chocolate that exemplifies excellence and desire in the world of luxury.

What goes into crafting at La Maison du Chocolat?

In our Maison, the products are made in an artisan tradition. We nurture a ‘savoir-faire’ of taste and technique for all our products and all our creations. This has been the key to the success of our Maison for the last 35 years.

Our chocolates exemplify the utmost quality in line with our values of craftsmanship and the signature taste of our Maison, where the focus is always on chocolate.

What differentiates La Maison du Chocolat from others?

Interview with Geoffroy d’Anglejan, CEO of La Maison du Chocolat In France, Robert Linxe with La Maison du Chocolat is recognised as the innovator of timeless, luxury chocolate, offering exceptional products year round. Robert Linxe inspired many French chocolatier vocations. They in turn attribute to him the finesse of unique construction, the art of balance and excellence of taste.

The signature Maison taste reveals its difference with the competition with a three-part approach to the art of degustation. For La Maison du Chocolat, the sensations succeed each other but must never mask the chocolate: 1- chocolate, 2 - fruit, spices, infusions… 3 - chocolate.

How do you think chocolate should best be enjoyed?

La Maison du Chocolat has established its own 10 commandments to define how to recognise and taste a good chocolate: 1. The colour of a good chocolate should be mahogany brown and slightly glossy.

2. A very good chocolate should not be too dark or too dull.

3. The ideal temperature for tasting chocolate is between 18 and 20°C (64 - 68°F).

4. A good chocolate should have a very thin coating; this coating should not be crunchy but should melt in the mouth.

5. The best way to taste chocolate is to savour it in small pieces.

6. Chocolate should never be sharp, overly bitter or pungent.

7. The flavour of the chocolate should never conceal the intensity of the cocoa, which is important to achieve perfect balance.

8. The taste of a chocolate should linger on the palate.

9. All the ingredients and especially the chocolate couverture must be of premium quality.

10. A good chocolate is defined by the quality of the chocolate used and not the cocoa percentage.

Do you have a favourite chocolate?

I love dark chocolate as much as milk chocolate, which

has wonderful creamy flavour, not too sweet, slightly robust. Some of my favourites are: Caracas (intense dark chocolate ganache), Zagora (dark chocolate infused with fresh mint leaves), Sylvia (milk chocolate ganache), and Rigoletto (caramelised mousse with milk chocolate).

What does the future hold for La Maison du Chocolat?

I mentioned earlier the essential human encounters at the beginning of this wonderful adventure of La Maison du Chocolat. I am confident that we are going to write a new chapter in the development of our brand with Wissam Al Mana in the Middle East, an individual who understands the high standards required of our profession.

What are your thoughts on La Maison entering the Middle Eastern market?

In terms of drawing power, Dubai is to the Middle East what Paris is to Europe. For me, Dubai is a city whose influence is felt around the world; it benefits from strong tourism, and offers a remarkable display of luxury brands concentrated in one single area. The shopping experience there is remarkable.

The clientele from the Middle East is one that we know well. They are frequent visitors to our boutiques whether it is La Rue François 1er in Paris, or in our boutique at Charles de Gaulle Airport. We know what their expectations are and we know how to respond to specific requests such as weddings, for example.

Can we expect special Middle Eastern flavours?

In general, our Maison does not adapt its products to its markets, preferring to have our clients discover the excellence of balance of French chocolate. However, we will bring to the Middle East a French touch to local events or holidays such as the Eid festival, just as we have done for Thanksgiving in New York or Chinese New Year in Hong-Kong. We have worked on a special gift offer for a collection dedicated to the Middle East with fabric gift boxes and magnificent unique presentations.

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Discover some of the latest designer hotspots around the globe, as Durrah explores boutiques in Paris, Dubai, Milan and Bahrain. Whether searching for a new wardrobe or looking for the perfect perfume, these brand new stores will have your winter wish list covered.

Best Boutiques

Emilio Pucci, Paris Situated along the city’s premier Avenue Montaigne, Emilio Pucci’s latest Paris boutique is the latest of the Florentine brand’s high profile openings in fashion capitals, including Madison Avenue in New York and Piazza di Spagna in Rome.

Since the debut of its striking new Palazzo concept, conceived by Creative Director Peter Dundas and architect Joseph Dirand, the company has embarked on an expansive retail strategy.

Starting in New York in November 2012, doors have opened in key markets across the globe, with 50 Pucci stores now open around the world.

The Paris store is emblematic of this striking growth. The store’s new vertical scale is evident immediately from the street, where a giant façade is cut with impressive glass window displays. Inside, the double height ceilings and vast spaces impart a grandeur that is fitting for this storied Maison. Key

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01 View from the double-height ceiling 02 Products displayed on brass fittings 03 The soft grey and purple palette 04 The shop exterior 05 Two-tone crushed marble Terrazzo floors

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elements of the sophisticated Palazzo concept, such as the two-tone crushed marble Terrazzo floor, brass trimming, a soft grey and purple palette and tables made from the purple-veined ‘Breccia dei Medici’ marble, luxuriously infuse both floors.

New details include two striking vintage 1940s Murano chandeliers in the entry way, and silk velvet lined walls that create a warm, clean radiance.

Meanwhile, spaces are conceived to house dedicated areas for Pucci’s growing world of accessories. On the ground floor there is a Silk Bar that offers an impressive assortment of Pucci’s famed scarves.

Pucci’s signature Newton bag has its own corner, where it is featured in an array of different sizes, exotic skins and colours. The space also affords a fully dedicated shoe salon, enlarged dressing rooms, and an upstairs area for private fittings.

“The Paris store makes a huge impact,” remarks Emilio Pucci Deputy Chairman and Image Director, Laudomia Pucci. “It has a very impressive scale and creates a sense of refinement that is very fitting for the brand. It is wonderful to see the product come to life in a sophisticated space that allows it to breathe and shine”. home.emiliopucci.com

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The interior showcases unexpected contrasts of bold, clean lines and expansive displays interjected by moments of playful asymmetry.

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06 The store exhibits clean lines and expansive displays 07 The carpets are made from wool and silk and displays are wooden and chic 08 Large open windows at the entrance

Ralph Lauren, Dubai 07 08

As part of its continuing international growth, Ralph Lauren proudly opened their first store in Abu Dhabi.

The new store is located in the heart of Abu Dhabi’s new central business district on Al Maryah Island, on the first floor of The Galleria at Sowwah Square, offering over 462 square meters of prime retail space. The Galleria at Sowwah Square will be home to some of the world’s finest luxury fashion and fine jewellery brands, and is slated to become Abu Dhabi’s premium shopping destination.

Found in the luxury area of the mall, the new Ralph Lauren store for men and women features a refined, detailed design, aimed at providing each customer with an inviting, multifaceted experience.

At the entrance, a sleek façade of coral stone is accented with warm aged bronze and fitted with large, open windows and illuminated signage. The interior showcases unexpected contrasts of bold, clean lines and expansive displays interjected by moments of playful asymmetry. Limestone floors, polished white lacquer wall panels and warm wood ceilings are layered with aged bronze, canyon leather, and crystal clear Lucite and glass details. Hand-woven abaca, wool and silk carpets, saddle-leather ottomans, abstract modern art and photography, glazed pots, wood vases and silver boxes add chic finishing touches to the luxurious sensibility of the store.

The elegant Ralph Lauren Collection, sophisticated Black Label and chic Blue Label styles for women will all be available at the store, as well as the impeccable Purple Label, ultramodern Black Label and iconic Polo Ralph Lauren collections for men. Beautifully crafted footwear and accessories for men and women will also be on offer. global.ralphlauren.com

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Architecture 09 Rounded edges give a feminine aura to the store 10 Product areas flow in a series of reflections and glimpses

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Salvatore Ferragamo, Milan Salvatore Ferragamo, one of the world’s most renowned luxury brands, has announced the reopening of its women’s flagship store on via Montenapoleone, Milan, following a complete refit with an entirely new concept.

One of the Group’s historic stores, the Milan women’s boutique was inaugurated in 1939 on the ground floor of Casa Carcassola Grandi, a sixteenthcentury palace with an elegant Neoclassical façade in the heart of the city’s fashion district. The boutique has now been completely refurbished with updated retail areas and a new showroom layout.

The store’s interior – spanning a total surface area of over 450 square meters – is elegant and luxurious, in line with Ferragamo’s signature style, and creates a refined ambience. The various product areas flow in a series of reflections and glimpses, highlighted by mirrored entrances and gold travertine inlays, reminiscent of a Baroque palace.

Glossy, tactile, lacquered walnut and Venetian marmorino stucco on the walls, along with steel and natural raffia in the upholstery, lend a warm,

welcoming and intimate feel to the new store concept. Even the edges have been rounded to give a more feminine aura to the space.

The boutique entrance, which affords guests a complete view of the Salvatore Ferragamo range, opens up to a space devoted to handbags. The shoe area follows under a sixteenth-century cross vault, with a special niche for Ferragamo’s Creations line.

This leads to the jewellery and watch room, with gold mother-of-pearl walls, antique-effect mirrors and gold raffia, and then to the oval-shaped ready-to-wear space, dominated by the cupolas that emanate indirect light, illuminating the collection.

Michele Norsa, CEO of Salvatore Ferragamo says, “A strategic centre for fashion and Made-inItaly products, Milan is an essential international showcase for a brand like Ferragamo. For this Salvatore Ferragamo women’s boutique, we have developed a special concept that also enhances the beauty of the historical palace in which it lies”. www.ferragamo.com

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Amouage, MANAMA The House of Amouage has opened a second standalone shop in the Kingdom of Bahrain in Seef Mall, adding to the luxury brand’s 13 shops across the Gulf. Along with its first shop in Bahrain City Centre, the new shop houses Amouage’s array of luxury fragrances and complementary Collections including Bath & Body, Home, Travel Accessories and Leather Goods.

Designed by JHP under the guidance of Amouage Creative Director Christopher Chong, the shop boasts elegant, clean-cut ivory style furnishings and a gold leaf Murano glass wall feature. Details are refined to embody Amouage’s philosophy of artistry and the House’s signature jacquard is exquisitely carved in some of the fixtures as an expressive representation of the brand’s timeless sophistication.

Amouage’s growing international retail footprint now encompasses five shops in Muscat, five shops in the UAE, two in Bahrain and a shop in Saudi Arabia and Kuwait, in addition to shops in Kuala Lumpur and London. This year will witness the opening of two shops in Nation Towers Mall Abu Dhabi and Lagoona Mall in Qatar. By the end of 2013, Amouage would have opened a total of 18 mono-brand shops located across the world in South East Asia, Europe and the Middle East.

“A key element in our retail expansion strategy is to extend our presence in existing key opinion forming cities,” said David Crickmore, Amouage CEO. “Presenting Amouage’s DNA in its truest form, our standalone shops allow us to be seen as a brand in its entirety, with our full product mix and in our own environment. We have also expanded our presence in Bahrain by retailing in select department stores such as Al Hawaj and Paris Gallery.” www.amouage.com

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11 The store features a gold leaf Murano glass wall 12 Furnishings are a clean-cut ivory style 13 The faรงade of the store

A NEW DESTINATION FOR FOOD CULTURE The Domain Bahrain, Diplomatic Area, Manama, Bahrain. Tel: +973 16 000 000 WWW.THEDOMAINHOTELS.COM

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Magnificent Melbourne

Always at the top of the ranks in the ‘World’s Most Liveable Cities’ lists, there’s not a lot that Melbourne doesn’t have. Located on the south-east coast of Australia, the city is a cultural gem full of hidden treasures, from flourishing street art and fine dining restaurants to homegrown boutiques and buzzing back-street cafes. This colourful city has so much to discover, and your next adventure is just a tram ride away.

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egarded as the cultural capital of Australia, Melbourne is a blend of museums, galleries, cafes, parks and gardens, shopping hotspots, artistic alleyways and a bustling city centre. The Victorian-era architecture gives heritage to the cosmopolitan lifestyle, and the 4-million residents are both multicultural and sports-mad.

More than a quarter of the city has been dedicated to parks and green spaces, perfect for outdoor strolls, picnics, or as a location for one of the city’s many festivals. The centrally located Carlton Gardens is 64 acres of sweeping lawns, towering trees and vibrant flowerbeds. Tree lined paths provide an avenue to the grand architecture and fountain of the Royal Exhibition Building, and not far off is the Melbourne Museum, Imax cinema, and an award winning children’s playground. A five minute walk takes you to Melbourne’s Central Business District (CBD), which has the highest concentration of major galleries, art museums, and Victorian architecture, as well as a huge range of dining and shopping options.

The shopping in Melbourne is superb, with several districts dedicated to boutiques that range from the eclectic to the high-end. In the CBD itself, Little Collins Street is home to some of the world’s top designers and fashion houses, and Collins Street boasts other luxury shops such as Louis Vuitton. Melbourne Central is a shopping mall based in the city, adjacent to the underground station of the same name. The Bourke Street Mall with the well known Australian department stores Myer and David Jones is another city-central shopping hub and a good place to see the daily sights and sounds.

Venturing out of the city into the trendy suburb of Fitzroy is the hugely popular Brunswick Street, which features clusters of stores selling an eclectic mix of vintage, retro and alternative pieces. Always bursting with life, the street is colourful with various forms of street art, and offers a diverse and interesting number of restaurants and cafes.

Dining in Melbourne has become quite an adventure and is as varied as its cultural roots. Food

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01 A tram passing by Flinders Street station

lovers will revel in the abundance of affordable, high quality restaurants representing almost every cuisine.

With a huge multicultural influence on the city the Chinese restaurants along Little Bourke Street are said to rival the dining in Hong Kong itself, and when stopping in at one of the many Italian cafes on Lygon Street, travellers almost believe they are in Rome. The influence of Italian migrants has also played a part in enhancing Melbourne’s long and rich coffee culture, something the city is known for.

A visit to the Queen Victoria Markets – the largest open air market in the Southern Hemisphere – is a must for any visitor. The markets, which offer everything from clothing to food, first began in the mid 1800s and has an outstanding selection of meat, seafood, and gourmet deli foods.

Getting from place to place in Melbourne can easily be done on foot via the city’s exceptional public transport system. Trams are symbolic to Melbourne, and can take you virtually anywhere, however there are also bus and train lines. Flinders Street Railway station is located in the city centre and is a popular meeting spot, known for the several clocks hanging over the main entrance.

02 Melbourne skyline at night 03 The twelve apostles

The unpredictable weather in Melbourne has become a trademark of the city, with days fluctuating from hot to cold and wet to dry throughout the day.

Despite this, Melbournians love to be outside and this is fuelled by their love of sport, in particular Australian Rules Football, which was invented in the city. Horse racing is another passion, and the majority of the state has a public holiday on the first Tuesday of November for the racing of the Melbourne Cup. Outside of the main city, Melbourne sightseers can find many natural wonders such as the Twelve Apostles.

Found along the Great Ocean Road, this natural landmark has been attracting curious onlookers for generations.

The Apostles are pillars of limestone, carved by the erosion of the coastline, and are among Australia’s more photographed nature sights.

The combination of all the Melbourne has to offer in terms of culture, cuisine, sightseeing, and art, combined with the easy and laid back quality of life, is what makes this city so wonderful. Visit Melbourne once and you will be sure to keep coming back! www.visitmelbourne.com

Getting from place to place in Melbourne can easily be done on foot via the city’s exceptional public transport system.

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Cruising in Luxury The lapping riverbanks of an ever-increasing number of nations have opened up to languid and luxuriously styled river cruise ships. One company, Uniworld, has stamped its presence in the industry with undeniable style and elegance. Voted one of the “Best River Cruise Lines” by the readers of Conde Nast Traveller’s Readers’ Choice Awards, Durrah finds out more about what this exclusive company has to offer.

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or a number of reasons, river cruising has become one of the fastest-growing trends in the travel industry today. Favoured for its relaxed pace and leisurely convenience, this style of holiday allows travellers to enjoy smaller towns and villages, as well as the opportunity to explore the heart of main city stops. By docking at riverside city piers, travellers on river cruises can simply head onto land and begin their explorations.

Uniworld is one company in particular, which has taken the experience of river cruising to a level of ultimate luxury. Founded in 1976, Uniworld maintains its rank in the competitive world of cruise companies with a record for meticulous service and hospitality.

World travellers and critics alike have been drawn in by its list of uncommon dream destinations, attention to detail, and all-inclusive personalized cruising.

Offering a different view of the world with over 500 departures annually, Uniworld sails on over 13 rivers in more than 20 countries throughout Europe, Russia, Egypt, China, Vietnam, and Cambodia. With itineraries spanning anywhere from 8 to 27 days, Uniworld prides

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Travel 01 Queen Isabel 02 Some of the sights to explore 03 Travel at your own convenience 04 High quality excursions offered at every stop

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itself on its select list of destinations, and on being the first river cruise company to introduce Russia, Ukraine, and Portugal as destinations. The company boasts a fleet of nearly 20 river cruisers, many of which have been designed and decorated by the Red Carnation Hotel Collection design team, who operate a number of award-winning and family-run luxury boutique hotels.

The team has personally overseen every detail of Uniworld’s European ships, resulting in the creation of stunning, yet warm and welcoming interiors, set against a backdrop of stylish comfort.

Luxury is reflected in every lush interior and in the cruiser’s every amenity, from main lounges with full-service bars and elegant and tasteful restaurants, to lively sun-decks, swimming pools, fitness centres and serenity spas. All areas are equipped with complimentary internet and Wi-Fi access, so even the most discerning travellers will find themselves spoiled aboard these liners. Crew members are highly trained and cohesively work to provide seamless and transcendent levels of service.

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As part of its service package, Uniworld offers highquality excursions, which are hosted by English-speaking local experts. Employees of the company physically investigate every feature of the tours, to ensure the highest levels are being met throughout each plan, and in all itineraries and excursions. To maintain the success of their business, Uniworld has set up international offices in Basel, Netherlands and France to follow up on their service delivery in all aspects from nautical, to hospitality, and land operations.

As a result of this high attention to detail and service, it should come as no surprise that Uniworld is part of Condé Nast Traveller’s prestigious Gold List and their Platinum Circle, for having been within its top voted list consistently for the past six years. The company’s in-dining has also been rewarded for its exceptional standard by Zagat (an esteemed restaurant rating guide), and meals created by Uniworld’s certified Global Master Chef Bernhard Zorn are highly praised.

Zorn’s teams of world-class chefs prepare a wonderful variety of dishes using fresh local produce from the

Offering a different view of the world with over 500 departures annually, Uniworld sails on over 13 rivers in more than 20 countries throughout Europe, Russia, Egypt, China, Vietnam, and Cambodia.

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destinations on each itinerary.

In order to maintain such a pristine reputation, Uniworld stands by a mandate of consistent improvement. In 2013, the company introduced two entirely new cruising experiences; the first on China’s Yangtze River aboard the five-star-rated Century Legend and Century Paragon, and the second in Europe, cruising through Spain and Portugal’s Douro River Valley in the luxurious comfort of the new Queen Isabel cruise ship.

In 2014, Uniworld will introduce its newest Super Ship, the S.S. Catherine in a phenomenal cruise along the Rhône and Saône rivers through France’s breathtaking Burgundy and Provence regions. Another equally sublime option will be to cruise through France’s tranquil Bordeaux region and along the three rivers of Aquitaine – the Garonne, the Gironde, and the Dordogne. All-inclusive river cruises through Europe will also be on offer in 2014, as part of the company’s plans.

Guy Young, President of Uniworld, says, “We are very pleased to provide our guests with even greater value and more convenience by offering an all-inclusive luxury cruise experience. Similar to the high-end luxury ocean cruise lines, such as Crystal, Regent, and Silverseas; Uniworld is dedicated to creating the most luxurious and worry-free experience for our valued guests. By offering an all-inclusive vacation, our guests won’t need to worry about ancillary items such as tipping as everything will be included in the price, so all they will need to do is relax and enjoy their vacation,” furthers Young.

Uniworld certainly earns its dubbing as the world’s only authentic boutique cruise line, and it seems there is no better time to enjoy one of these magnificent holidays.

For details, please contact Farhat International Tours & Travels, the Regional representative of Uniworld boutique river cruises on +973 17216411 or email cruise@farhat-tours.com

Crew members are highly trained and cohesively work to provide seamless and transcendent levels of service.

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05 Queen Isabel Sun Deck 06 Interiors by the Red Carnation Hotel Collection design team 07 Queen Isabel Al Fresco Dining

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+973 77282800, +973 66668882, +973 66668883

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Steeped in Middle Eastern mystique, the St. Regis Doha is the most spectacular five-star hotel in an area filling up fast with other big-name hotel brands. The St Regis, a destination in its own right, presents interiors styled in modern opulence overlooking the Arabian Gulf’s tranquil blue sea. All around are the towering sand dunes and ancient architecture that make up the picturesque landscape of the region. Guests can be assured that a stay at the St. Regis Doha will be one to remember.

Pampered by Luxury

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ocated in the elite West Bay area of Doha – the emerging commercial heart of the city – the St. Regis Doha is adjacent to the manmade Pearl Island and near the Diplomatic centre. Guests visiting Doha on business can easily access the central hub which is home to many of the multinational corporations, while arts and cultural connoisseurs are steps away from Katara Cultural Village and the Museum of Islamic Arts.

Continuing a century-old tradition, all guests who stay at the hotel will be provided with their own Butler for the duration of their stay, ensuring the highest levels of bespoke service. The St. Regis Doha features 336 rooms including 70 suites – all affording soothing views of the Arabian Gulf.

The hotel features 10 restaurants and bars, 4,000-squaremeters of meeting space and extensive recreational facilities including Remède Spa, an Olympic swimming pool and beachfront cabanas with private Jacuzzis.

The 24-hour butler service is a signature hallmark of unparalleled dedication and unprecedented excellence.

From a perfectly pressed suit, to a favourite book at hand for the evening or a thoughtful last minute gift for a loved one, no request is too small or unattainable no matter what hour of the day. The St. Regis Butler Service ensures that each request is tailored to match each guest’s requirements and tastes.

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Within the hotel’s two reflecting towers, all secondfloor rooms and suites feature a terrace to enjoy the breeze from the sea. The interior is a seductive blend of timeless style and Middle Eastern inspiration. Each lightfilled space features exceptional furnishings; doorframes are influenced by classic Arabic design as are the rich, distinctive fabrics used in the bespoke furniture and in the drapery above the bed. The signature St. Regis branded bed, renowned for its craftsmanship and comfort, is always made with the finest crisp-white Egyptian cotton.

Two presidential suites spanning across two floors offer the ultimate experience with 180 degree sea and city views, a private elevator, a majestic staircase leading to the bedrooms, custom-built furniture, and more.

The hotel also offers epicureans the largest dining selection in the city with ten restaurants and lounges. The diverse dining options at The St. Regis Doha will provide guests the chance to sample contemporary cuisine from all over the world – from Californian-inspired regional cuisines to European, Asian and Arabian culinary experiences.

From the selection are two restaurants by Chef Gordan Ramsay; one a high-brow, avant-garde experience, the other a bistro-style cafe. Titled Gordon Ramsay and Opal by Gordon Ramsay respectively, both are run by chef de cuisine Gilles Bosquet who worked at the two-Michelin-starred La Pyramide in Paris. Recreating the atmosphere of an English manor house, the décor at Gordon Ramsay is understated and elegant. Offering a different menu every night, this dining experience is a must try for every culinary connoisseur who wishes to be enchanted by Bosquet’s signature touch, influenced

by Chef Ramsay’s world-renowned experience. A casual alternative to Chef Ramsay’s Michelin-starred fine cuisine, Opal is set to become a social dining experience. In a relaxed atmosphere, guests can enjoy western classics executed to perfection.

Filled with natural day light, Vine is the hotel all-day dining venue. Marble walls, wooden tables, bespoke chinaware and natural golden colours offer a welcoming contemporary space. Inspired by the blend of fine cuisines found in California, the menu is destined to delight the palate of well-travelled guests with a selection of all times favourites with a Middle Eastern twist.

Astor Grill is a modern interpretation of a New York steakhouse and grill, serving the freshest fish and seafood and top quality beef. An open kitchen with buzzing chefs preparing fine food presentation creates an interactive yet non-intrusive dining experience.

Recognised as one of Lebanon’s most famed restaurants, Al Sultan Brahim is best known for the freshest seafood and sacred recipes of Lebanese cuisine.

Guests can share mezze platters among friends, savour perfectly executed oriental seafood specialties, and gather around a flavoured water pipe anytime of the day for a true Arabian experience.

The fundamental principle that has essentially determined the DNA of famed outlet Hakkasan emerged early on: modern authenticity, encapsulating a paradox in that the traditions of the past are acknowledged, yet with no fear of change. It is this spirit that infuses every aspect of this recently opened fine dining Chinese restaurant in Doha.

As for lounges and bars, the Sarab Lounge is the heart

and soul of the hotel and destined to become the city’s social focal point for a light meal or an ultimate afternoon tea. The cuisine is inspired by local and international tastes with a selection of 99 teas and traditional delights such as assorted macaroons, freshly baked scones and finger sandwiches. Sarab Lounge is the venue of choice for those seeking a touch of decadence in an elegant setting with the soothing sound of live saxophone performance as backdrop music.

At the Caribbean inspired Oyster Bay & Bar pool restaurant, casual dining is offered with sweeping views of the Arabian Gulf. Guests can relax to the sound of authentic Caribbean live music and enjoy a taste of traditional Latin American cuisine paired with exotic drinks.

Otherwise, the Vintage Lounge is an ideal venue for more intimate conversations and social gatherings in a refined atmosphere with elegant furnishings and contemporary chandeliers. Aficionados can enjoy their favourite vintage beverage and choose among a selection of cigars featuring the top 10 by Cigar Aficionado. A bite-size snack menu is also available to complement the experience.

The St. Regis Hotel has been celebrated for successfully bringing jazz music to the region, with Jazz at Lincoln Centre opening in October 2012 to massive fanfare, expanding outside the US for the very first time. With monthly programming led by its New York base, Jazz at Lincoln Centre Doha is the first jazz venue to showcase and cultivate some of the best jazz talents in the world. A menu of creative snacks and cocktails complements the entertainment.

For the frequent number of guests travelling on

01 The lobby of the St. Regis 02 Astor Grill 03 Each room features a terrace with sea views 04 Furnishings are influenced by classic Arabic design 05 Entrance to the Astor Grill

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business or for events, the St. Regis Doha has equipped itself with 4,000 square meters of meeting space to host elegant weddings, grand birthdays, exclusive exhibitions, social events, and important meetings and conferences.

Adorned with crystal chandeliers, the Grand Ballroom is the largest ballroom in Doha to offer natural daylight.

It features 1,850 square meters of banqueting space and leads to a vast terrace that overlooks the Arabian Gulf.

Abalone, Amber, Awabi and Baroque – all named after the world of pearls – offer different size spaces that can be customized into unique venues for intimate weddings or exclusive meetings. The 70 suites ranging from intimate junior suites to grand presidential suites, also offer opulent venues for high profile meetings. The team of culinary and catering professionals at the St. Regis are able to create personalized menus for any event, which reflect specific tastes and character.

Due to the location of the St. Regis Doha on the shore of the Arabian Gulf, the hotel is set within a resort environment, offering guests the possibility to recharge or relax after a day of business meetings or enjoy family quality time over the weekend. Spanning across 16,000 square meters of space, the recreational facilities include a

Remède Spa, a fitness centre, an Olympic size swimming pool, a private beach and 10 exclusive sea view cabanas with private Jacuzzis. The hotel also offers children facilities including a Crèche, a shaded swimming pool and a water playground.

Remède Spa prides itself on paying particular and individual attention to every guest who visits. Highly specialized spa therapists ensure that each treatment is customized to suit certain skin and body types. Exclusive to the St. Regis brand, Remède products draw their inspiration from nature and the spa features over 50 Remède products, ensuring that there is something to match every skin. With touches such as the St. Regis signature aroma scent, exotic teas, chilled cocktails and flavoured chocolates at the end of every spa session, the Remède Spa at St. Regis Doha takes visitors to the highest level of enhanced serenity, calm and bliss. The Spa features 22 spa treatment rooms as well as separate facilities for male and female including steam rooms, experience showers and Jacuzzi pools, and a trip here is the perfect way to complete your stay at the luxury hotel. www.stregisdoha.com

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Desirable Destinations

Hotels that create the perfect environment for a memorable experience are vital for the global explorer who only wants to enhance their next getaway. Discover these luxury accommodations as Durrah brings you a gateway to the world’s most exciting and sought-after destinations.

Buddha-Bar Hotel, Prague The multi award winning Buddha-Bar Hotel Prague is located in the vibrant heart of Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic. Close to the Old Town Square, the hotel strives to exceed the highest standards of a five star hotel while enhancing every guest’s stay with a lifestyle atmosphere catering to all senses, in pure Buddha-Bar style.

The Buddha-Bar Hotel goes beyond expectations to ensure a relaxing and rejuvenating experience through its signature designs, contemporary Asian-Colonial inspired atmospheres, culinary fusion delights and highly personalized services. Rich and vibrant colours, luxury materials and impressive details add an exotic touch to the interior. Lighting also helps to define the concept, using the intricate interplay of countless dimmers, richly decorated chandeliers, lamps and candles. The oriental flavour inspired by the colonial era is underlined by distinct stucco decorations. While still in line with the global concept, the Buddha-Bar Hotel Prague also represents original Czech architecture.

On offer are a number of indulgences, including ‘Buddhattitude’ Spa signature treatments, unique evenings in the Buddha-Bar Restaurant, a Pop Art

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While still in line with the global concept, the Buddha-Bar Hotel Prague also represents original Czech architecture.

01 One of the suites. Dark furniture highlights include alligator print chairs and bamboo panels.

02 Contemporary tiled bathrooms fit the theme 03 The hotel’s contemporary Asian-Colonial inspired atmosphere 04 Interiors are dominated by red and gold colours

‘Eatmosphere’ at the Siddharta Café or relaxing in the soothing comfort of your room. The Siddharta Café offers a menu that is both sophisticated and contemporary, serving Euro-Asian cuisine in a comfortable yet trendy atmosphere. An all-day-diningrestaurant, it provides hotel and outside guests with a unique experience, bringing together culinary and musical recipes from around the world.

Hotel rooms are equipped with top-level technology, and are fitted with Nespresso Coffee Machines, Subzero Minibars, Balnea 8000 toilets and Full HD Interactive televisions, transmitting the music mixed by DJs in the bar. The interior is dominated by red and gold colours with black and dark brown furniture highlights, such as alligator print chairs and bamboo panels. A massive black jacaranda bed with a dragon design at the bed-head clearly defines the room design, setting the tone along with a bewitching light of Chinese lamps.

Aiming to transcend even the highest standards of five-star hotels, the Buddha-Bar Hotel Prague seeks to provide its guests with a unique experience, which enthrals and captivates all human senses. www.buddhabarhotelprague.com

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Travel and Leisure 05 The E Wow Suite bedroom offers supreme comfort with a glamorous edge 06 Innovative design inside the E Wow Suite bathroom 07 The impressive rock n’ roll decadence of the E Wow Suite’s dining room

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W Hotel, London W Hotels is known for being a contemporary, designled lifestyle brand and an industry innovator, located in the most vibrant cities and exotic destinations around the world. The W Hotel London is no exception; inspiring, iconic, innovative and influential, the hotel offers a unique mix of cutting-edge design and passion for music, fashion and entertainment.

Soho’s hottest luxury hotel contains 192 suites, including the three-bedroom E WOW Suite – the W Hotels’ take on the traditional Presidential Suite – which opened earlier this year. Bold yet discreet, the suite offers supreme comfort with a glamorous edge, which embodies the exclusive blend of red carpet style and rock ‘n’ roll decadence that W London guests have come to enjoy. The suite has a bird’s eye view of Leicester Square and contains an integrated TV and sound system, bespoke DJ booth, as well as a custommade travel trunk for storing clothes; complete with backlit mirrors and gold leather compartments.

The interior design of the W Hotel was overseen by acclaimed Dutch design agency Concrete when it launched in February 2011. The agency’s innovative

design has helped make the hotel a sophisticated urban sanctuary for global jetsetters and local London insiders alike. Taking inspiration from its surroundings, the hotel’s design ethos is focused on the dual personality of the Brit – who enjoys a combination of luxury and fun.

The contemporary restaurants at the hotel include Spice Market; a combination of South East Asian cuisine prepared by Chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten and the W Lounge; a social hotspot which provides a selection of light meals and a special afternoon tea.

Since opening, the W London has been well known for its commitment to supporting British music talent. Regularly hosting high-profile music industry events, including the NME Awards after party and the recent collaboration with Boiler Room, the hotel has made a bold impression on the London scene. The W Hotel London also offers glamorous entertainment experiences, stylish retail concepts and signature spas, creating a holistic lifestyle experience that is integrated into the brand’s sensibility. www.wlondon.co.uk

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Travel and Leisure 08 The gold Art Deco corridors, reminiscent of the 1930s 09 One of the Deluxe guest rooms, offering luxurious comforts 10 The blue themed Makassar Suite living room 11 Suite d’Or living room with Art Deco touches

The hotel’s gastronomic restaurant, La Scène, offers meticulously prepared cuisine highlighting seasonal produce.

Prince de Galles, Paris Prince de Galles, a Luxury Collection hotel located on avenue George V, is enriched in design by the expertise of leading artisans. Opened in 1928, at the peak of the Art Deco period and designed by architect André Arfvidson, the legendary Prince de Galles remains the Parisian residence for travellers who seek a sophisticated and intimate environment in the city’s most desirable quarter: the Golden Triangle by Champs-Elysees.

The hotel reopened mid 2013, following a meticulous two-year restoration, bringing it back to its original Art Deco splendour. Attention to detail characterised the work of Pierre-Yves Rochon, who transformed the hotel’s 115 guestrooms and 44 suites, public spaces and fitness centre. Rochon re-imagined guest accommodations as private rooms in a luxurious residence, reminiscent of the style from the 1930s, offering modern comforts alongside distinct Art Deco touches.

The most extravagant suite in Prince de Galles is the two-storey ‘L’Appartement Parisien’, which includes a private 85 square metre terrace overlooking the Golden Triangle with the Eiffel Tower as a backdrop. Spanning a total of 245 square metres, L’Apartement Parisien is also

equipped with a kitchen, dining room and inner elevator.

At the helm of the kitchens is Executive Chef Stéphanie Le Quellec, whose passion and creativity ensure an exquisite culinary experience. The hotel’s gastronomic restaurant, La Scène, offers meticulously prepared cuisine highlighting seasonal produce. Guests can enjoy refined dishes throughout the day at the elegant hotel bar Les Heures, or simply choose from a selection of pastries, sweets and savoury bites at tea time. The famous Patio is a relaxing setting with palm trees, teak and marble furniture, with a refreshing and light Mediterranean-inspired menu.

Prince de Galles also features a wellness suite with a hammam, a fitness room, and an event space for celebrations hosting up to 90 people.

A symbol of timeless French elegance, Parisian chic and luxury hospitality, the hotel’s concierge team is on hand to open the doors to hidden treasures and exclusive experiences in Paris, setting Prince de Galles apart as the destination authority in the City of Light. www.luxurycollection.com/princedegalles

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Travel and Leisure 12 The Park Deluxe twin room offering stunning views across Dubai Creek 13 The Park Suite lounge and bedroom is the picture of discrete style 14 The Lounge; the subtle colour palette provides tranquil elegance

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Park Hyatt, Dubai Park Hyatt Dubai is a luxury waterfront retreat located just minutes from the city centre, world-class shopping and prime business districts. The hotel is Dubai’s first and only luxury city centre retreat, and features stunning architectural design, world-class cuisine, personalised services and unsurpassed facilities. With an emphasis on exclusivity and discreet elegance, Park Hyatt Dubai is designed to meet the needs of the sophisticated traveller seeking a sanctuary in the midst of this vibrant city.

All 225 guestrooms offer stunning views across Dubai Creek from their balconies and terraces, and the hotel is the first in the Middle East to feature the concept of a Spa Room, enabling guests to enjoy a premium spa experience without leaving the privacy of their room.

Featuring wood-fired ovens and state-of-art openplan kitchens, Park Hyatt Dubai’s restaurants and bars bring drama and theatre to dining, both indoor and al fresco, with a selection of venues serving an array of world-class cuisines. The Thai Kitchen, with its striking modern decor offers an authentic culinary experience prepared by native Thai chefs; Traiteur showcases classic as well as contemporary French cuisine; Café Arabesque, a Middle Eastern restaurant celebrating the culinary influences of the Levant region, features an open bakery and two wood-burning ovens that capture traditional and aromatic flavours; The Terrace offers a lounge-style environment where guests can relax and enjoy the sunset over the majestic Dubai Creek; and, finally, Pistache, the hotel’s chic pastry boutique, offers a delectable assortment of sweet delicacies to suit every taste.

The breathtaking gardens across the property include The Palm Garden, which has fast become known as Dubai’s “secret garden” and is the ideal location for intimate gatherings, while the Fountain Garden can accommodate larger events.

With unparalleled facilities and sophisticated services, the hotel also offers five unique meeting rooms, an 840-square-metre ballroom and multiple function rooms, making it perfect setting for social events, corporate functions and private gatherings.

Providing affluent individual business and leisure guests with elegant and luxurious accommodation, Park Hyatt Dubai is a haven of tranquil elegance in the vibrant city of Dubai. www.parkhyatt.com

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15 The expansive Ritz Carlton Presidential Suite

Ritz Carlton, Beijing The Ritz- Carlton Beijing is centrally situated in one of Beijing’s most thriving business areas within the heart of the city’s central business district, and brings a new level of elegance and design aesthetic to China’s capital city.

The hotel features 305 well-appointed guest rooms, six exquisite award winning restaurants and bars, including Barolo serving authentic Italian Cuisine, Yu serving fine Cantonese Cuisine, Aroma serving world cuisine throughout the day, The Ritz-Carlton Bar, The Lobby Lounge and The Davidoff Lounge.

The interiors reflect an English Country Manor and the height of etiquette, capturing a specific place and moment in time. From the chandeliers, area rugs and furnishings, to the classic white marble floor with stone accents in rosy red and sunny yellow, the look is unexpected and unrivaled in the Beijing hotel market.

The function level boasts an elegant ballroom, 9 meeting rooms, business center, pre-function area, and impressive boardroom. The grand ballroom, corresponding meeting rooms and wood paneled

boardroom are both technologically appropriate and continue the design aesthetic from the lobby level. The standard guestrooms are warm havens with brightly colored accents in buttery yellow and apple green. In the club level guestrooms the palette is equally as elegant with a soft blue undertone and accents of berry reds and regal blues. The guestroom art collection is a gentle nod to the artists before us and the initial bridge built between the East and West cultures.

At the top of the building the guests have access to fitness facilities and spa accommodations. The space is more contemporary with classic elements. The VIP spa suite is complete with an ensuite powder room, Balinese massage bed, pedicure station, massage tables and whirlpool.

The Ritz-Carlton Beijing is both timeless and elegant, with a standard of service that has made the Ritz-Carlton name synonymous with luxury. www.ritzcarlton.com/en/Properties/Beijing/

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Lovingly selected furnishings from different epochs are testimony to a particular elegance and invite guests to relax and feel at home.

Steigenberger Frankfurter Hof, Frankfurt The Steigenberger Frankfurter Hof – one of the best hotels in the city centre of Frankfurt – is known for its timeless ambience and superb service, honoured when the hotel was awarded the prestigious Five Star Diamond Award for commitment to excellent customer service earlier this year.

The hotel is in prime location, situated close to landmarks such as the opera house “Alte Oper”, theatres, galleries, divers museums and art museums, as well as Frankfurt’s shopping promenades, the Goethe Strasse and the Zeil.

Tradition meets modernity and service meets lifestyle in the Frankfurter Hof, which is home to 261 rooms and 42 suites, fitted with every imaginable comfort. From delightful marble bathrooms and walk-in wardrobes to expansive writing desks, the hotel’s Junior and Theme Suites provide all of the facilities needed on your travels.

Lovingly selected furnishings from different epochs are testimony to a particular elegance and invite guests to relax and feel at home. Each spacious room offers breathtaking views of the skyline and the technical facilities are state of the art; from Wifi to Cable TV. The Restaurant Français seduces guests with deliciously flavoursome creations inspired by the haute cuisine of France. Chef de Cuisine Patrick Bittner’s outstanding culinary talent has had the critics raving, and he is the recipient of a Michelin Star.

The more casual restaurant alternative is OSCAR*S café bar and restaurant, which has long been one of Frankfurt’s most popular eating spots. Here guests can enjoy inventive, regionally inspired dishes in a relaxed atmosphere, with the option to sit on the city centre’s finest terrace.

Other restaurants include the newly renovated

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16 The enormous marble Presidential Suite bathroom 17 Each room is fitted with every imaginable comfort

Restaurant Hofgarten, the social hotspot Cigarrum, Japanese restaurant IROHA, and the Autorenbar; a popular meeting spot, famous for its classic Royal High Tea. The Frankfurter Hof provides guests with professional assistance in keeping fit on their trips at the hotel gym, where modern equipment makes efficient workouts alongside individual entertainment possible.

For those visiting on business, 19 elegant function rooms are on offer, equipped with professional conference technology, fulfilling even the highest demands.

With something to satisfy every guest’s wishes, the Frankfurter Hof is the perfect place to enjoy the most luxurious comforts and service on offer. en.steigenberger.com

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Under expert tuition, guests also have the opportunity to be taught the fundamentals of Falconry and introduced to a selection of birds including Eagle Owls, Barn Owls, Hawks and Falcons.

Four Seasons Hotel, Hampshire Famous for its range of exciting activities, the Four Seasons Hotel Hampshire is situated on 500 acres of parkland, providing a landscape for an endless amount of outdoor adventures.

Steeped in history, the location of the hotel was originally known as The Manor House, frequently visited by Henry VII and his son Henry VIII, who first met his future wife Catherine of Aragon there in 1501. The twentieth century saw the estate become a billeting for airmen during World War II, a seminary for monks, Reeds School for girls, Daneshill Prep, and eventually, the Four Seasons Hotel.

Today, the hotel seamlessly blends English country living with 21st-century modernity.

Guests can enjoy facilities for everything from golf, croquet and tennis to tracks for walking, cycling and running. The estate houses an equestrian facility, with horse riding programs catered to every ability, and an ‘Own a Pony’ programme, allowing younger guests to care for and ride a pony for the day.

Clay pigeon shooting takes place in the Estate’s South Field – a short stroll from the Hotel. Clays are released from five different platforms and qualified instructors guide participants around the shooting circuit offering expert tips and tricks.

Under expert tuition, guests also have the opportunity to be taught the fundamentals of Falconry and introduced to a selection of birds including Eagle Owls, Barn Owls, Hawks and Falcons. Hawk Walks and Displays are educational and fun, with lots of interaction and participation. The birds are flown to demonstrate their outstanding natural abilities and the terrific power of the Eagles, Owls and Falcons, which at times will be swooping past at 150 mph.

The picturesque Basingstoke Canal runs through the Hotel’s Estate providing the chance to enjoy a memorable cruise on a luxurious 56ft canal boat, enhanced by a meal on board with up to 15 guests.

Other waterside activities include fishing at one of the two lakes on the property’s Estate, known as Tundry Ponds and the Belvedere Pond.

Kids clubs ensure there is something for every member of the family, and a fully equipped gym and spa are available for indoor activities. The Four Seasons Hotel Hampshire offers the perfect location for a truly luxurious English countryside holiday. www.fourseasons.com/hampshire

18 An English high tea overlooking the grounds 19 The hotel offers plush and modern suites 20 The hotel is situated on 500 acres of parkland 21 Blending English country living with 21st-century modernity

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Spas

Oasis of Relaxation Whether you are looking for better health, improved well-being or a trimmer figure, Durrah brings forth the best of spa care to offer you unrivalled treatments with lasting positive effects. Pamper your body and soul and recuperate from the hassles and stresses of modern life, with the services of these three world class spas.

The Spa, Steigenberger Frankfurter Hof, FrankfurT The Spa at Frankfurter Hof sitting on 1,000 square metres is dedicated to the ‘Art of Wellbeing’, with exclusive products and distinctive therapies, contrasting traditional European treatments with contemporary beauty techniques.

Treatments include an Arabian Hammam with foam massages and peeling, classical massages with organic products from amala, and modern and lasting beauty treatments with MBR Medical Beauty Research products.

The Spa combines all the vital elements that constitute great bathing, such as Steam and Sauna chambers complemented by experience showers, which allow guests to journey through a deeply cleansing and calming thermal experience. The Day Spa suite is designed as the ultimate personalized spa journey delivering a bespoke luxury experience, perfect as a gift to celebrate a special occasion, or simply as an indulging treat.

On offer are a range of massages including hot stone, aromatherapy and deep tissue, organic facials

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01 The Spa Entrance 02 The authentic Arabian Hammam 03 Inside one of the modern Spa Suites

using a range of products based on therapeutic essential oils and natural plant extracts, body treatments to rejuvenate, refine and detoxify, and beauty treatments from nails to waxing to skin restoration.

The Spa is also home to a barber, which redefines male shaving and grooming in Germany.

An indulgent European-style gentleman’s salon has been transformed into a more contemporary barber experience - with time sensitive and results oriented treatments for body, face and hair.

Treatments are individually aligned to your body and skin type, transforming luxurious wellbeing into a valuable experience. www.thespa.steigenberger.com/en

An indulgent European-style gentleman’s salon has been transformed into a more contemporary barber experience - with time sensitive and results oriented treatments for body, face and hair.

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The Lavender, Rosemary and Mint Back Treatment lasts 45 minutes, using invigorating oils and sea salts to naturally exfoliate and stimulate the back.

The Spa, Four Seasons Hotel Hampshire Located in a picturesque 18th century stable block, The Spa at Four Seasons Hotel Hampshire captures the essence of the Estate’s historic past. Positioned discreetly apart from the Hotel, yet easily reached through a glass walkway, the 27,000 sq ft Spa provides an ideal setting in which to relax, revive and re-energise.

Offering two VIP suites amongst 15 treatment rooms, The Spa is spacious and elegant offering an unparalleled selection of bespoke treatments and experiences, from holistic therapies to the most result orientated high performance facials and body treatments. Not only that, The Spa also has fitness classes, saunas, steam rooms and a 20 metre conservatory-style swimming pool and outdoor vitality pool.

Try one of Hampshire’s bespoke signature treatments, or a Sodashi Therapy which is 100% natural and works holistically to nurture the skin. The Lavender, Rosemary and Mint Back Treatment lasts 45 minutes, using invigorating oils and sea salts to naturally exfoliate and stimulate the back. Afterwards, enjoy a massage of blended lavender, rosemary and English peppermint oils followed by a warmed marine mud mask, which envelops the back while the soles of the feet are stimulated with hot stones.

The Sodashi Samadara Ultimate Age-Defying Facial goes for 105 minutes and uses a sequence of timeless, anti-ageing techniques rooted in Ayurvedic healing traditions, designed to reawaken the skin’s natural healing energies. Diminish the appearance of fine lines and transform your skin with the intensely hydrating and nourishing treatment, to increase firmness and elasticity. A Rose Quartz Crystal facial massage enables the powerful Samadara Ultimate Age-Defying Crème to penetrate deeply into the skin for maximum benefit.

Whatever your preference, The Spa has a range of body therapies, facials, specific body massages, salon treatments, and spa retreats to suit everyone, making it the perfect place to relax and restore your youthful glow. www.fourseasons.com/hampshire/spa

04 The outdoor vitality pool 05 20 metre indoor conservatorystyle swimming pool 06 Entrance to the spa area

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07 Sweet water infinity pool 08 Over 2,000 square meters with 14 treatment rooms 09 Seawater Hydrotherapy Pool

Thalassa Sea & Spa, Sofitel, Zallaq Bahrain Thalassa Sea & Spa at Sofitel Bahrain is a place to give yourself over to enjoyment, relaxation, and a team of experts who offer individual care adapted to suit your needs.

The spa is part of the wellness brand from the Accor Hospitality, whose one aim is to provide the best innovative sea water therapy experience. It helps you to take care of your body, to lastingly protect it through a comprehensive approach that combines therapy, sports activities and healthy diet through the use of sea water and aquatic plants.

Like a real concentrate of life, the sea contains all the trace elements, minerals and vitamins that are vital to the balance of our organs. These virtues have long been recognized and exploited by man. The ancient Greeks would bathe in hot sea water to relieve their aching joints and the Romans used the soothing properties of sea mud at a very early stage. Over and above its benefits, thalassotherapy is also a unique opportunity to replenish body and soul deep-down, to enjoy a break of well-being and pleasure.

The extensive Thalassa Sea & Spa complex covers 2,000 square meters and is the first hotel within the

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GCC countries to offer thalassotherapy. It is designed with the utmost care to ensure privacy and tranquillity for every guest. Its sea side location helps to enhance a feeling of escape and promote perfect harmony between body and mind.

The complex features 14 treatment rooms (6 for dry treatments and 8 for wet treatments) which are a perfect reflection of its natural surroundings and combine seawater hydrotherapy, massages and Wellness programs. It boasts cutting edge seawater hydrotherapy pool, a freshwater pool, saunas, steam rooms, hairdresser for men and beauty salon for women, as well as a recreation and yoga studio.

The Thalassa Sea & Spa Beauty area has its own brand of cosmetics, Aquascience and Skinceuticals concocted from 100% natural ingredients, combining the benefits of marine spring water with the recognized virtues of seaweed and oligo elements.

The Beauty Centre at the spa offers guests a wide range of facial and body treatments, as well as soothing relaxation treatments, and a dietician is available for advice on BMI and tailor-made fitness programs.

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www.sofitel.com/6722

DELIVERING 30 YEARS OF EXPRESS SOLUTIONS FROM BAHRAIN TO THE WORLD. .. .. .. .

With it’s Middle East and North Africa Hub based in Bahrain since 1979; DHL Express has been providing innovative Express solutions to the world delivering on time, every time. dhl.com

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Polo at the Palace Coutts Polo at the Palace, Abu Dhabi’s flagship business and society event, has made a stunning return to the UAE capital’s iconic venue, Emirates Palace from 22-23rd of November. Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Nahyan Bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, the event saw two UAE polo stars vying for victory over an unforgettable weekend of polo, fashion, networking and art.

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bu Dhabi is quickly becoming a global luxury hotspot and there is no better place to showcase this weekend of food, fashion, art, and sport than The Emirates Palace,” says Alexander Schneider, Hotel Manager of The Emirates Palace.

“Our grand facade and lush lawns set a pictureperfect backdrop for the weekend’s events.”

The glamorous Coutts Polo at the Palace saw Mohammed Al Habtoor, a familiar name on the UAE polo scene, captaining Team Buenos Aires who last year clinched the cherished Coutts Cup after a thrilling 3 – 2 penalty shootout over Coutts Abu Dhabi. Returning as captain this year for Fabergé Team London was British up-and-comer Stuart Wrigley, who last year charmed audiences with his debonair style on the pitch, despite narrowly missing out on a win. The captains competed against home team Coutts Abu Dhabi and Maserati Team Milan, together representing global fashion, luxury automotive and financial centres.

After a cautious start from both teams in the weekend’s finale, the defending champions Team Buenos Aires celebrated another win after a thrilling performance against home team Coutts Abu Dhabi with a nail biting 6 – 4 victory. Despite a spirited fightback performance from Facundo Castagnola, whose attacking play brought his team within two goals, Coutts Abu Dhabi missed out on the title for a second year. Exceptional play came from Team Buenos Aires’ player Guillermo Cuitino, whose long-range shooting took his team into half-time four goals ahead.

His Highness Sheikh Nahyan Bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, presented the cherished Coutts Cup to Cuitino and fellow Buenos Aires team members Habtoor Al Habtoor and Santiago Gomes Romero, who was also awarded this year’s ‘most valuable player.’

The event was brought to the UAE capital by London-based company City Events, whose CEO Rory Heron said, “Our special ‘palace rules’ make for

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a fast paced and exhilarating weekend of entertainment.

This prestigious event took place on a custom built pitch one third smaller than a standard polo field, creating a unique experience with action at its core. We’re thrilled to have attracted such high-calibre players who thrilled the crowds.”

Last year’s event quickly became ‘Abu Dhabi’s society event of the year’, with a VIP audience and special guests enjoying luxurious hospitality from the sidelines of the action. This year, Coutts Polo at the Palace returned with the support of some of the world’s most prestigious brands, who together created a memorable weekend of pure opulence. Guests were treated to high-octane polo as well as five-star hospitality across two spectacular days, with delectable picnic boxes provided courtesy of Emirates Palace’s award-winning chefs to be enjoyed in the comfort of the sumptuous grounds.

As a new surprise for 2013, Emirates Palace hosted an exclusive after party at its chic Breeze Lounge post

match on both days, for all those who attend the polo. International DJ’s took to the poolside decks to maintain the momentum from the exciting day of matches for a glamorous night under the stars.

Whilst spectators enjoyed the ‘palace polo’ action on the pitch, behind the velvet ropes of VIP hospitality chalets a different type of action took place, with C-level executives from the world’s top luxury brands networking with an elite list of prospective clients and new business partners from around the globe. Returning as title sponsor was Coutts, whose sponsorship of the event forms part of their ambitious growth strategy in the Middle East, where the company has offices in Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Doha. Amir Sadr, Co-Head Coutts Middle East, commented, “Coutts Polo at the Palace represents one of the most prestigious occasions in the Middle East’s sporting calendar and we were delighted to be the headline sponsor of this memorable event for the second year. As we continue to develop our Middle East operation, we are proud to

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be associated with such a strong heritage; something that is shared in our own brand values.”

Other luxury brands attracted to the event included Chesterton Humberts, Hakkasan and Nespresso.

Maserati returned to offer unique test drive experiences of their most recent model line up along the Abu Dhabi Corniche, and iconic international jewellery house Fabergé was a first-time sponsor, presenting their latest High Jewellery creations to guests.

Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority (TCA Abu Dhabi) showed their support, and exhibited a themed stand at Abu Dhabi Art, with a complementary shuttle service operating between the Coutts Polo at the Palace and the art fair at the Manarat Al Saadiyat, Saadiyat Island.

Entrance to the sell-out event was strictly limited to 1,000 people per day, in order to ensure a unique experience for all guests.

01 Players in action 02 Backdrop of the Emirates Palace 03 The victorious Team Buenos Aires 04 Team Abu Dhabi 05 The VIP location

www.citypoloseries.com

Last year’s event quickly became ‘Abu Dhabi’s society event of the year’, with a VIP audience and special guests enjoying luxurious hospitality from the sidelines of the action.

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Technology

The Vision of Vertu Luxury smarphone brand Vertu, has been leading the way in the market that it pioneered over a decade ago. On the occasion of the launch of the brand’s Constellation model, Durrah chats with Massimiliano Pogliani, the Chief Executive Officer of Vertu, to hear more about the features of the new phone and what sets Vertu apart from the rest.

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ertu aims to deliver the world’s best luxury mobile phones to its customers by combining expert craftsmanship and first-class materials with innovative technology and unique services. Since the launch of the iconic ‘Signature’ phone in 2002, Vertu has dominated the category that it created, despite competition from many larger brands over the years.

Originally established by Finnish phone company Nokia in 1998, Vertu has now operated for a year as a stand-alone business following its purchase by EQT this time last year. The past 12 months have been a time of exciting change and innovation for the company, as a number of senior management changes were made and the new Constellation smartphone was launched, marking the second major product launch for the company in this period.

Massimiliano Pogliani was hired as Chief Marketing Officer for Vertu in November 2012, before quickly being promoted to Chief Executive Officer the following June. In his short time with the company, Massimiliano

has successfully redefined the brand’s global marketing strategy and directed the launch of their premium smartphone, the Vertu Ti. The Vertu collection is made up of three distinct models – Vertu Ti, Signature and Constellation. Each phone is handmade by a single craftsman in a state-ofthe-art facility in Hampshire, England, using the world’s finest materials. Upon completion, it is signed by the craftsman that created it – an indication of the passion, pride and dedication that goes into each product.

Renowned for its curated services, Vertu phones comes with a suite of carefully selected exclusive offers, content and assistance especially selected to enhance the customer’s lifestyle. Vertu LIFE offers personalised recommendations and privileged access to experiences and events, and Vertu CERTAINTY delivers security for customers, their data and their phones.

The launch of Constellation in October 2013 followed 12 months of transformation at the luxury mobile phone manufacturer, and the new smartphone

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features all of Vertu’s expertise in craftsmanship, technology and services, with more modern contemporary styling. While the Vertu Ti uses a very elegant design language that visually connects to the company’s heritage, Constellation takes Vertu in a new design direction, embodying everything that the brand has become renowned for.

The phone features a 100 carat sapphire crystal covering a 4.3 inch 720p high definition screen, surrounded with grade 5 titanium casing; a material two and a half times stronger than stainless steel yet only half the weight. The exterior is swathed in high quality calf leather, from a tannery with more than 150 years’ experience, and comes in five exquisite colours that make stunning use of the single piece of leather used

- Cappuccino, Black, Orange, Mocha and Raspberry.

Technically, Vertu Constellation offers everything for the modern smartphone user, including Android 4.2 Jelly Bean, 32GB of internal memory, 13MP rearfacing camera with full HD video, a front-facing Skype compliant 1.3MP camera, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and NFC. The launch of the Vertu Constellation is supported by a vibrant new global advertising campaign shot by renowned photographer Kristian Schuller. The campaign has been designed to play on Vertu’s English heritage, use of fine materials, hand craftsmanship and technology, as well as focusing on extraordinary scenes that reference specific aspects of the Vertu brand. www.vertu.com/en

The launch of the Vertu Constellation is supported by a vibrant new global advertising campaign shot by renowned photographer Kristian Schuller.

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01 The new Vertu Constellation 02 The phone comes in five exquisite colours, made from calf leather 03 Portrait of Massimiliano Pogliani

CEO Massimiliano Pogliani tells us more about the new phone, and how the Vertu brand has been leading the way in innovation, design and exclusivity.

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Tell us about your background in business.

I come from ten years of work at Nestlé Super Premium, working as Chief Commercial and Marketing Officer. I dealt with premium products such as Nespresso and Movenpick ice-cream, where I learned how to develop positioning for these luxury brands.

Soon I decided to work for a real luxury brand, so I moved to Vertu with the new ownership last year when EQT acquired the company.

So you have spent one year with Vertu so far?

Yes, it’s been a year of transformation and challenges. I joined as the CMO in November last year then I was promoted to CEO at the end of June, which has been good! We are launching the new product to redefine a new strategy and reorganising the company, so a lot of things are happening.

Why did you choose to use Android technology to power the Constellation?

Before when we were owned by Nokia we were tied to their technology, which we thought was not delivering the right customer experience. So when we were choosing new technology to move forward, we looked at the spectrum of possibilities and decided to go for Android as it is present all over the world.

We wanted an operating system that was available everywhere and very easy and intuitive to use. We also wanted a real open system that the customer can customise as they want, which is linked to the Vertu services.

What makes Constellation stand out from other smart phones?

I don’t really compare the Vertu phone with other mass produced smart phones, particularly with the

Constellation. This model is for people who are looking for a very contemporary modern and slick design; it has the soft touch of real full grain calf leather, the resistance of titanium and the scratchproof sapphire screen. What makes the whole difference is when you buy a Vertu phone you have a beautiful object which is handmade piece by piece by a single craftsman, just for you. It is not produced in a factory or by machines, it is handmade, which is the only way that you can put all these materials together. You really need to know how to be able to put together titanium, sapphire and leather, plus the technical components inside require a huge level of expertise – the phone needs to be able to work very well, and have excellent reception. Over 135 pieces are put together by a single person.

Can you describe the Vertu customer?

What are some of the new services that customers can expect from Vertu?

How should technology and luxury complement one another?

In this phone we have developed the new version of our Vertu LIFE and Vertu CERTAINTY, which has all the normal applications plus the Vertu part, which is the collection of privilege and experiences that are only available to our Vertu owners. The content is managed by us, so it is not fixed in the phone, but changes as soon as we get access to new brands, partnerships or events. For example, during Fashion week and the Oscars ceremonies, you will get exclusive access to these events. This part is also personalised so when you subscribe you can customise your preferences and what you are interested in, whether it be music, food or fashion and the more you use these services we gain insight into your preferences, and the more the offers will be tailor made to your needs.

Then you have the second part, which offers our customers peace of mind through protection of you, your phone and your data, and we offer all kinds of security, from personal, to corporate, to asset protection, intelligence services and investigation services. You have the possibility to activate personal tracking where you are tracked wherever you go in the world, so if you are going places which are a little bit unsafe, the company will always know where you are. It comes with an alert button, which transmits your position to the company so they can rescue you wherever you are.

There is also the data feature, where we offer secure phone calls and texts that are fully encrypted, when you call to another phone with the same application you are guaranteed full privacy. We have global Wi-Fi with iPass, so you have access to 1.3 million hotspots around the world and be connected wherever you are. This is a special deal that offers unlimited data at full speed with only a fixed annual fee of $200, which you cannot buy as a normal consumer, but is a special deal that we did with them.

Well, technology should be there to make your life easier not more complicated, because luxury is not about complication. I believe we need to deliver a certain level of technology because today everyone is used to that with the wide usage of smartphones. The challenge for Vertu was to offer this at a level that is far superior to what currently exists on the market.

For us, technology was a starting point and once that was done we started talking about the design, services and the craftsmanship.

Of course we are targeting the high net-worth individual community, because we are a luxury smartphone, but ultimately we are a network of individuals who are quite different. Generally they are people who are very successful and highly regarded in their business, and aspired to by others. They enjoy art, music and definitely appreciate quality and beautifully crafted objects. They value craftsmanship and have a level of understanding and discernment for good quality products that goes beyond the standard of others. These are people who in their choices never go for the ordinary, so when they choose their mobile phone they want something that will set them a little bit apart from the rest.

How many of these phones have you made for customers?

We don’t like to give exact figures, but being a luxury product we have made probably in ten years what Apple makes in one hour, just the same as any other luxury product. When you get to this level the number of pieces is not the most important thing, it’s the value given to each piece that is much higher.

Where do you see the future of Vertu headed?

I see the future of Vertu first of all consolidating its position in the existing market, because although it has been growing since it was launched years ago, there is still a huge potential out there. We are not yet in the hands of everybody we are targeting so there is potential to grow within the segment. The axis to grow is to cover different price points in terms of different combinations of design materials and services, which is why the Constellation is the next step of this strategy. Another source of growth will be to cover the feminine segment as the product right now is quite masculine; and finally social growth would come from us geographically expanding and capitalising in markets where today we are not very strong, such as the US.

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Dining

Restaurant le Meurice, Paris Alain Ducasse’s three Michelin Star restaurant le Meurice is where real taste is returned to its truth, without any superfluous ingredient. For breakfast, lunch or dinner, each day the fine-dining restaurant proposes a rich, subtle and diverse menu. Precise and without excess extravagance, faithful to true flavours and an extremely well groomed presentation, the threestar cuisine of the gastronomic restaurant is not only modern, but also audacious. One thing is sure: you will not get bored!

Not only will your palate be satisfied, but your eyes will also be astonished by the wonderful decoration of the gastronomic restaurant’s room. Inspired by the Salon de la Paix at the Chateau de Versailles, the decoration of the restaurant le Meurice reinterpreted by Philippe Starck in 2007, is a real invitation to a unique rapture. This 17th century ‘grand siècle’-style decor is based on three paintings dating from 1905 to 1907, the first phase of the refurbishment of Le Meurice since it opened. Theophile Poilpot (1848-1915) was a French Académie painter who painted in the ‘pompier’ style.

Inspired Eating Virginia Woolfe once said, “One cannot think well, love well, sleep well, if one has not dined well.”

Durrah once again ensures that you will be dining exceptionally well; as we review a selection of top restaurants offering the most delectable dishes for your next culinary adventure.

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Once the majestic door in glass with gilding opened, you will discover the ancient mirrors and chandeliers and the noble materials such as the bronze, the marbles and other fresco. The romantic elegance is at his highest peak when you look through the majestic windows to the Tuileries Garden. This new decoration plays with noble colours which represent pureness: white, silver and the natural light make this room exceptionally harmonious.

For Alain Ducasse, the meal tells a story and the table is the stage. Unique table objects include original creations by Pierre Tachon, and valuable pieces of Japanese craftworks by Shinichiro Ogata. The food is a pure and simple cuisine; preparations are made to give room to the strength of taste. The menu respects the basics of French cooking, and celebrates the rhythm of the seasons, when the product is at its best. www.dorchestercollection.com/en/paris/le-meurice

This 17th century ‘grand siècle’-style decor is based on three paintings dating from 1905 to 1907, the first phase of the refurbishment of Le Meurice since it opened.

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01 The extravagant restaurant interior. Image by Pierre Monetta 02 Alain Ducasse’s ‘Bonite aubergine’. Image by Pierre Monetta 03 Pristine table setting. Image by Pierre Monetta 04 17th century style décor by Philippe Starck. Image by Pierre Monetta

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Blue Jade, Ritz Carlton Dubai The Ritz-Carlton Dubai’s restaurant Blue Jade is proud to be serving the city’s most authentic line-up of dishes from the Far East. Helmed by Vietnamese Chef Ta Van, the restaurant brings a combination of classic fare with a contemporary style and presentation from Asia’s most feted culinary destinations to the city.

Chef Ta Van, who was born and raised in Ha Nam in the northern part of Vietnam, has created a menu that offers guests a one-of-a-kind Asian dining experience through a diverse selection highlighting the cuisine from his homeland as well as the gastronomic culture of various Asian countries. He has also tapped into a rich trove of family recipes, including a mouthwatering Ginger Sea Bass wrapped in Lotus Leaf, a dish created by his grandmother. Other signature highlights include rice paper rolls from Vietnam, tom yum soup from Thailand, black pepper crab from Singapore and miso black cod from Japan.

05 Pomelo salad 06 Sushi Platter 07 A tranquil ambience of amber and wood

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“Blue Jade’s concept is all about celebrating the mystique and authenticity of Asian cuisine in a single resort setting. Diners are taken into an enchanting journey through the East with a unique harmony of exotic aromas and authentic flavors. It is a true showcase of the distinctiveness of each Asian cuisine while allowing guests to discover the common thread that binds them all,” said Mr. Raul Salcido, General Manager, The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai.

Blue Jade is named after the talisman of peace and tranquility that is highly regarded in Asia. The qualities associated with the restaurant’s namesake are reflected in its magnificent ambiance where elegant tunes of Asian instruments blend seamlessly with its contemporary design of rich color palette of amber and wood. Widely framed windows open to the terrace that overlooks the tropical gardens of the resort and the Arabian Gulf, setting a mood similar to an Asian sea-side restaurant, whilst the open kitchen provides diners with an exemplary Asian spectacle – a showcase of culinary artistry by the chefs as they prepare the dishes. www.ritzcarlton.com/dubai

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08 One of the themed private dining rooms at Yu 09 Grilled rib with honey and Italian olive 10 Double boiled fish Maw and Silkie with Chinese herbs

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Yu, Ritz Carlton Beijing Delectable Chinese cuisine at Yu comes with the fineness and sophistication of jade – as is its name sake – as seven luxurious private chambers await guests, with the chance to enjoy intimate and sumptuous gastronomic affairs.

The main dining area is a warm, elegant and contemporary space. The room emphasizes textural changes and utilizes local materials in both the wood and stone selections. Light interplays with the varying smooth and rough surfaces; the texture is a language of historical and modern materials. Local heritage can also be seen in the delightful Buddha collection. Each Buddha has found a home in niches and on pedestals throughout the space. The floor is a deep carpet to soften the room and enhances this warm haven on cold nights.

There are seven private dining rooms available to celebrate the Chinese tradition of banqueting. The Chinese are magnificent hosts and the banquet is a special treat. The private rooms vary in size and colour, and are represented by a motif that is reflected in the art and accessories within the room. Each room combines traditional regional design with a modern twist.

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The 3 experiential spaces of the Chinese restaurant are connected to each other through a subtle reference to the four seasons. Beijing is a region that has four distinctive seasons and the tea & wine bar represent ‘early spring’. It is as if the first flowers are pushing through the snow and the buds of the trees are beginning to show. It is a time when winters chill meets the warming sun of spring.

The main dining is ‘late summer’, when the colours seem to be baked by the sun, but the earth holds the warmth and releases it gently into the atmosphere. It is a time when summer recedes as it meets autumn’s brilliance. The private dining rooms each reflect nature through the colour green, in a multitude of shades accented in each of the spaces.

Yu’s menu brings an unforgettable gastronomic experience, keeping “the way of Yu” by mixing classic Cantonese cuisine with Chef Ku’s new creations. Menu items include freshly cooked seafood, Sichuan dishes, and the delicacy Bird’s Nest. www.ritzcarlton.com/en/Properties/Beijing

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11 The open show stainless steel kitchen 12 Some traditional Italian bruschetta 13 Pasta – one of the signature dishes at Primavera 14 Views over the landscaped gardens and poolside

Primavera, Ritz Carlton Bahrain The Italian signature restaurant Primavera at The RitzCarlton Bahrain Hotel & Spa, is located on the first floor of the hotel, with beautiful views over the landscaped gardens and poolside. The restaurant features an open show kitchen where guests can follow the creations of their dishes and get a first hand insight view of Italian cuisine. Al fresco dining on a terrace complements the contemporary and sleek interior design.

Mauro Giordano the new chef de cuisine at Primavera, has over 23 years experience in the hospitality industry, and oversees the daily culinary operations with a stellar cast of six chefs. Chef Giordano combines the culinary traditions of Italian classics with a creative twist of modern cuisine. His style reflects a growing trend towards Italian food as ‘Leggero” meaning light, tasty, stylish and characterized by an extreme simplicity. Chef Mauro cooks with greatest passion, always focusing on the finest and freshest products, and with the mission to introduce and to teach the variety and beauty about Italian cuisine: “The soul of Italian cuisine is pasta and our menu offers a wide variety of these home-made delicacies from strangozzi, gnocchi to ravioli. But of course we don’t stop here. My primary goal is to create a genuine and contemporary Italian lifestyle experience at Primavera, showcasing the best from all over Bella Italia with all its flavors.”

The surroundings of the restaurant are discreet, and the service crisp and efficient, perfect for conducting a business meeting or simply relaxing with colleagues over a delicious meal. Select from a range of Italian delicacies including antipasti, risotto and handmade pasta. www.ritzcarlton.com/en/Properties/Bahrain/Dining/ Primavera

The surroundings of the restaurant are discreet, and the service crisp and efficient, perfect for conducting a business meeting or simply relaxing with colleagues over a delicious meal.

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King of Cuisine 178

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It is no question that Alain Ducasse is one of the most respected and influential chefs and restaurateurs in the world. With a career that has spanned 30 years, Ducasse has opened twenty-four restaurants in nine countries across three continents, three of those earning a Michelin star. He has had multiple appearances on The World’s 50 Best Restaurants list, oversees two cooking schools, has written several cookbooks, and most recently was awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award by the prestigious Diners Club International.

In an exclusive interview Ducasse shares more about his extensive career, and the recent opening of his first restaurant in the Middle East, IDAM, in Doha.

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orn in south-western France’s Les Landes region, Ducasse’s journey in the world of food began in 1972, when at age 16 he started an apprenticeship with the Pavillon Landais restaurant in Soustons and at the Bordeaux hotel school. In 1977 he embarked on work experience with legendary chef Roger Vergé, holder of 21 Michelin stars, where he learned the Provençal cooking methods for which he was known.

Ducasse’s first position as chef came in 1980 when he took over the kitchens at L’amandier in Mougins in south-eastern France, and one year later he assumed position of head chef at La Terrasse in the Hôtel Juana in Juan-les-Pins.

By 1984, Ducasse had earned two Michelin stars, which awarded him the first of much recognition for his talents in the food industry. He expanded his role to

include management for restaurants of some of the top hotels in France and opened La Bastide de Moustiers, a twelve bedroom country inn in Provence, proving his success on the business side of operations.

In 2000, he ventured internationally to the US and launched the Alain Ducasse restaurant in New York City’s Essex House hotel; earning three Michelin stars by 2005, before he went on the further expand his businesses.

His current collection of restaurants is notable not only for its consistently high quality and global reach, but also for the range of styles they exhibit, from ornate fine-dining rooms to casual bistros, from bastions of classical French cuisine to experimental multi-ethnic concepts. Ducasse is an international chef in every sense. His latest venture has seen his presence in the Middle East for the very

first time, with the opening of IDAM, located in the heart of the Islamic Museum of Art in Doha, Qatar.

Through imagination and ability to push the boundaries of cooking, Ducasse has explored culinary cultures and championed progression, while managing to always respect the history of cooking.

He has shared his knowledge and talents through the operation of his cooking schools; training and nurturing a generation of chefs, many of whom are now also part of the world’s culinary élite.

A passionate mentor, businessman, innovator, and above all chef, Alain Ducasse is a verifiable culinary force who has paved the way for the future of French and international cuisine. www.alain-ducasse.com/en‎

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Interview with Alain Ducasse 01 Alain at work with Christophe Saintagne. Image by Pierre Monetta 02 A dish from IDAM. Image by Pierre Monetta 03 Portrait of Alain Ducasse. Image

by Mikael Vojinovic 04 Gratin de légumes d’hiver. Image

by Thomas Duval 05 Selection of dishes at IDAM. Image by Pierre Monetta

Healthy cooking is trendy... is it something you plan when you create a recipe?

resources and the seasons. Therefore, you have to be very flexible and avoid any preconception.

I don’t think in terms of trends. My only ambition is to cook in harmony with nature. My role as a cook is to exhilarate the authentic tastes of natural products. And it is true that what is good for the taste-buds is also good for health and good for the planet.

Did you choose special recipes for the Middle Eastern market when you opened Idam?

I did what I always do, wherever I am: I looked around me to identify the local products that are available, I permeate myself with the local traditions and, from this input, I created special recipes.

Do you consider yourself an ambassador of French cuisine or do you like to go beyond those borders?

What are your future plans for the Middle East?

Cuisine like many other fields has no borders.

Culinary knowledge is shared and spread. We actually developed our Ducasse Institutes for professional culinary trainings as early as 1999.

I’m proud of my French roots in terms of practice and techniques and actively promote French contemporary cuisine. Yet, at the same time I’m interested in the overall evolution of all kinds of cuisine, because the dialogue between all the culinary perspectives enriches all of us.

As of now I am savouring the pleasure of Idam at the museum of Islamic Art in Doha.

How do you manage to please multiple cultures in terms of tastes?

Because I never impose, I just propose. I don’t believe my role would be to teach down my guests what they should like or not, or how to dine “the French way”. I never copy-paste and I always create a new proposal in tune with the place and time.

Do you insist on specific ingredients for your restaurants?

What food do you typically eat every day?

Surely not. The components of a recipe are first and foremost dictated by the nature and what is important is to create a recipe in tune with the local

You can eat whatever you wish yet in reasonable portion. At home I moderate meat intake and rather favour fruits, vegetables and cereals.

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What challenge did you face in developing your global culinary empire?

My approach is not global but “glocal� in the sense that I always look at defining unique contemporary proposals to appeal to different clienteles locally. To do so, I put the emphasis on two things; one is the quest for excellence, the other is knowledge transmission. I gathered and trained around me a team of highly talented professionals who are able to lead my restaurants exactly as I want them to be led.

What do you consider the secret of a successful restaurant?

Tough question! The only likely way I found after 30 years of experience is desperately simple: work more, work faster and work better.

Is there a market you are keen on developing?

I always look with great interest at all opportunities.

Through imagination and ability to push the boundaries of cooking, Ducasse has explored culinary cultures and championed progression, while managing to always respect the history of cooking.

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Automotive

Speed Sensations Going beyond average engineering and innovation, this selection of cars exceed expectations when it comes to the best the automotive industry has to offer. Take a look at the latest models from Porsche, Bentley, Rolls Royce, Cadillac and Aston Martin, as well as the new showroom Intersect by Lexus.

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01 The Garage 02 Intersect Garage 03 Lounge area 04 ‘Crafted for Lexus’ retail section 05 Exterior of Intersect by Lexus

We work really hard to establish the boutique gallery concept from scratch, which was as challenging as it was exciting.”

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Intersect by Lexus The exclusive Aoyama district in Tokyo is home to many of the world’s most distinguished fashion and retail brands.

The latest addition to the roster of eminent names in the district is Intersect by Lexus, a mixed-use complex that houses a café, gallery and retail space. The mastermind of this expertly curated space is Masamichi Katayama, founder of Tokyo-based, internationally acclaimed interior design firm Wonderwall.

“From the start, we were mindful that we do not want to create just another Lexus showroom,” says Katayama.

“We wanted to create a boutique gallery where anyone could come in to grab a coffee or take a rest while experiencing – whether consciously or unconsciously – the Lexus brand.

We work really hard to establish the boutique gallery concept from scratch, which was as challenging as it was exciting.”

Thanks to the striking façade of the building, adorned with 13-foot-high bamboo-veneered structures, but it certainly catches the attention of trend-hunting passersby in the area. Bamboo steering wheels are an optional addition to some Lexus models, which inspired Wonderwall to create this design feature.

Installed behind the glass exterior walls, these intricate bamboo forms – handcrafted by expert craftsmen – are objects of natural beauty.

“We went to painstaking lengths to come up with the final design,” says Katayama. “These bamboo structures function as a partition and create something similar to the

shades of trees inside. They let in enough daylight but still keep privacy for guests to relax and feel comfortable in.”

The café complements this eye-catching façade, creating an inviting space at the entrance, while the gallery is located toward the rear of the ground floor.

On the second floor are the library and lounge spaces, as well as the retail section where ‘Crafted for Lexus’ objects – a collection of Lexus-branded items produced in collaboration with Japanese artisanal brands – are on display and for sale.

Katayama has peppered the building with delightful design reference to Lexus. Most impressive in both impact and size, is the feature found by the staircase leading up to the second floor. There, one can see almost 250 different car parts – everything from wheels and grilles to nuts and bolts handpicked from the LFA, LS, GS, RX and IS models – displayed on the wall from floor to ceiling.

“We all know that Lexus is a premium brand, but it is one that also knows how to have fun,” says Katayama with a smile, referring to the installation.

“I wanted to put in something that may be rather unexpected and fun from the brand there.”

Following Tokyo, further Intersect by Lexus outposts will open in New York and Dubai, both also developed by Wonderwall. lexus-int.com/intersect

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Automotive

The Vanquish marked the beginning of Aston Martin’s centenary celebrations and in roadster guise it is a cause for celebration by itself.

Aston Martin 06

Having commenced its centenary celebrations in 2013, British sports car maker Aston Martin has for the first time in the Middle East region, unveiled the CC100 Speedster Concept, recently launched Vanquish Volante, and the extreme V12 Vantage S. Leading the celebrations in terms of new exciting product is the new Vanquish Volante, the roadster iteration of what is regarded as the ultimate grand tourer.

The Vanquish marked the beginning of Aston Martin’s centenary celebrations and in roadster guise it is a cause for celebration by itself. For the purely performanceinclined, there is the Aston Martin V12 Vantage S, which is an unprecedented engineering achievement. Light, aggressive and extremely beautiful, the V12 Vantage S is the quickest, fastest Aston Martin ever, with the exception of the One-77. One of the highlights of not just the Aston Martin presentation but the entire show, however, is the unveiling of the CC100 Speedster Concept, which is a stunning celebration of Aston Martin’s 100 years of sporting heritage and design capabilities.

Having made a strong comeback to the Middle East region, Aston Martin is entirely focussed on creating only the most performance- and luxuryoriented automobiles in the year that marks its centenary. Proof of this is the Vanquish Volante, which is powered by the AM11 V12 engine that produces

06 Aston Martin Speedster 07 Front of the Vanquish Volante 08 Aston Martin V12 Vantage S

573PS and propels the incredibly desirable roadster from 0 to 100 kph in just 4.1 seconds, making it the quickest Volante ever produced. That’s wind in the hair and then some. These stunners will take centrestage alongside an equally grandiose selection of Aston Martin’s existing range of luxurious performance cars such as the Vanquish, the DB9 and the Rapide S. At the onset of Aston Martin’s unveilings at the 2013 Dubai Motor Show, Dr. Ulrich Bez, CEO, Aston Martin, said, “In a year when Aston Martin completes 100 years of creating the most beautiful automobiles, we have given to car lovers some of the most desirable and technologically superior cars ever to be produced. Aston Martin, as a brand, has always represented the highest levels of attention to detail and quality, and with the launch of not just a stunning palette of cars but also extremely personalised services, we have taken our commitment to excellence several notches higher.”

The company will also introduce a selection of its finest products and services – such as the new 10+10 offers on its Vanquish range, the Restoration service, and the Q Selections by Aston Martin – to further pursue its excellence and success in the region. www.astonmartin.com

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Automotive

Bentley Flying Spur Upon making its global debut at the Salon International de l’Auto in Geneva earlier this year, Bentley’s new Flying Spur established a new luxury performance sedan benchmark. With its unrivalled blend of effortless driveability, exquisite luxury and craftsmanship, sculpted design and state-of-the-art technology, the new Flying Spur takes the worldwide success of its iconic predecessor to another level.

The car is powered by a 6.0-litre, twin turbo W12 engine, coupled to a ZF eight-speed transmission, developing 625 PS (616 bhp) and 800 Nm of torque. The car is suitable to drive in all weather conditions thanks to an all-wheel drive with a 40:60 rear-biased torque split.

The car is technologically complete, and includes touch-screen infotainment, mobile connectivity including Wi-Fi, a Rear Seat Entertainment suite and a new hand-held Touch Screen Remote for rear-cabin occupants. An eight-channel, eight-speaker audio system with Balanced Mode Radiators provides high quality sound clarity.

The interior designers have created a luxurious, spacious cabin that dresses advanced acoustic and electronic technologies in exquisite hand-crafted leather

hides and wood veneers. The new redesigned front and rear seats trimmed in natural premium-quality leather use a softer yet more durable hide unique to Bentley and available in twelve different colours.

The craftsmen and women of Bentley’s renowned woodshop, have applied the finest sustainably sourced wood veneers to finish the cabin of the new Flying Spur.

Crafted entirely by hand, cured for 72 hours and clearlacquered to enhance the natural beauty of the wood, a range of seven sophisticated veneers are available.

As with the entire Bentley range, the new Flying Spur is built to individual customers’ exacting specifications. A range of seventeen standard exterior paint colours includes Dark Cashmere, a sophisticated and contemporary addition to the Bentley palette. The extended paint range of over 100 colours is joined by Damson, a rich hue inspired by the extremely rare purple diamond, and one that is complemented by an optional matching hide colour.

Please call +973 17238822/ +973 17238190 for more information. www.ahmedzayani.bentleymotors.com

As with the entire Bentley range, the new Flying Spur is built to individual customers’ exacting specifications.

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09 Bentley Flying Spur 10 Sustainably sourced wood veneers finish the cabin 11 Front view of the Flying Spur

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Visually tighter lines, more pronounced contours and newly shaped body elements all combine to enhance the Panamera’s Gran Turismo character.

Porsche Panamera S The Porsche Panamera, the brand’s four-seater sports car for every day which gave the automotive executive class a new lease of life, is expanding further with the introduction of the second generation. An unprecedented nine derivatives are now available, with three debut models joining a redeveloped line-up. With the new Panamera, the sports carmaker has pushed the contradictions to the limit: even sportier dynamics and greater efficiency with more comfort and a decidedly sharper design for the ultimate driving pleasure.

Part of the unrivalled breadth of range is the Panamera 4S Executive and Panamera Turbo Executive with an extended wheelbase. They take the sporty saloon into the luxurious Executive segment. A third new model, the Panamera S E-Hybrid, marks a new technological benchmark as the world’s first plug-in hybrid in the luxury class. Furthermore, a completely new three-litre V6 engine that features biturbo charging for the Panamera S and Panamera 4S is introduced.

One of the most marked upgrades to the new generation is its increased fuel efficiency. New technologies mean fuel savings of up to 56 per cent and – with the exception of the diesel model – more power.

The standard version offers a blistering top speed of 259 km/h, 310 horsepower and a fuel consumption of just 8.4 l/100 km, proving efficiency need not mean a compromise in sporting performance.

12 A widened rear windscreen gives a visually lower stance 13 Porsche Panamera S

The model redesign has an enhanced driver experience at its core. The redeveloped Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK) with virtual intermediate gears further improves fuel economy and comfort. At the front suspension, larger chassis mounts offer even more comfort and greater solidity, whilst advanced steering box mounts provide a more direct response. Newly developed tires, lighter 18-inch wheels and a specifically tuned Porsche Stability Management (PSM) add to the car’s sportiness and comfort.

Traditional values and pioneering design come together to form an accomplished unit. Visually tighter lines, more pronounced contours and newly shaped body elements all combine to enhance the Panamera’s Gran Turismo character. A widened rear windscreen gives the car a visually lower stance, whilst a wider spoiler and optional LED lights make the new model stand out.

George Wills, Managing Director of Porsche Middle East and Africa FZE, says: “This is a great moment for our brand as we extend the Panamera range to an unprecedented nine models in the Gran Turismo segment. Each model offers a unique and individual experience, but all bring luxury and comfort together with sporty driving performance.” www.porsche.com/middle-east

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Rolls Royce Phantom Series II The launch of the Rolls-Royce Phantom in 2003 was much more than the reveal of a new ultra-luxury car; it offered the first glimpse of a masterpiece that quickly established itself at the pinnacle of automotive excellence.

Today, Rolls-Royce presents Phantom Series II, a family of pinnacle cars that have been thoughtfully updated with the introduction of cutting-edge technology, enhancements to an already peerless drive-train and improvements in connectivity that reflect the changing world in which we live.

Phantom’s striking and modern front end best encapsulates the essence of changes that lie beneath, with re-styled bumpers and rectangular light apertures that frame full-LED light clusters.

These allow the integration of new technologies like curve light functionality, where headlamp beams are reflected in the direction of travel to provide greater illumination of the road ahead when cornering. And adaptive headlamps, where light patterns change automatically in response to different driving speeds.

Phantom’s already sublime drive-train has also been enhanced. The addition of a new 8-speed automatic gearbox and rear differential, perfectly complement the V12 direct injection engine, improving exemplary dynamics. Fuel consumption improves by 10 percent on the combined cycle and CO2 emissions fall from 385 to 347g/km as a consequence (388 to 349

for Phantom Extended Wheelbase).

Effortless is a word that perhaps best epitomises the Phantom experience, both for drivers and their passengers. So an improved user interface, as well as the addition of new driver assistance technologies, has been built on the foundation of a new electronics’ platform for Phantom Series II. The satellite navigation system for example, has been fully updated with functions that include 3D map display with landscape topography, guided tours, as well as enhanced points of interest and composite route planning.

Audio visual content, satellite navigation maps and driver information is presented on Phantom’s new 8.8 inch control centre display, underlined by eight programmable bookmarks in chrome for optimum convenience in selecting key functions. Front, rear and top-view camera systems, further augment Phantom’s ease of use particularly when driving in tight urban environments.

When reverse parking, rear path prediction automatically deploys on-screen.

These significant changes add further substance to a reputation Phantom has proudly built since launch of the signature Rolls-Royce back in 2003. It is a new world. But it’s a world in which the Rolls-Royce Phantom family will occupy a pinnacle position for many years to come. www.rolls-roycemotorcars-bahrain.bh

14 Phantom Series II Drophead Coupe 15 Phantom’s new 8.8 inch control centre display 16 Re-styled bumpers and rectangular light apertures frame LED light clusters 17 8-speed automatic gearbox and rear differential

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Cadillac XTS The all-new luxury sedan Cadillac 2013 XTS represents the most technologically advanced production car in the brand’s history. The car will enhance Cadillac’s line-up of luxury vehicles and hopes to attract more aspirational customers to the premium automotive brand.

The XTS is also the most spacious Cadillac sedan, tailored to provide roominess in a more efficiently sized package. It offers more interior space than midsize luxury cars and is comparable to full-size sedans, particularly in the rear seat area where it has 1,016 mm of rear legroom.

In the Middle East, the XTS will come with a standard direct-injected 3.6 liter V-6 engine and is the only luxury sedan with Magnetic Ride Control – the world’s fastest-reacting suspension. In addition, the XTS comes with a standard advanced all-wheel-drive system that uses Haldex technology to transfer power front-toback, and side-to-side along the rear axle.

The XTS is equipped with a number of advanced and exclusive safety features. It will be the industry’s first car with the Safety Alert Seat that uses directional tactile sensation in the driver’s seat to warn drivers of crash threats while driving and

parking. Other innovative safety features include Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Auto Braking and FullSpeed-Range Adaptive Cruise Control.

“The all-new XTS redefines our approach to the luxury sedan by combining advanced technology, stunning design and confident performance,” said Don Butler, vice president Cadillac marketing. “The XTS brings new and exclusive technology, while still delivering the space and elegance that is Cadillac’s DNA.” The XTS also marks the debut of CUE, Cadillac’s innovative and exclusive infotainment system.

Information, communication and entertainment options are available through one elegant, easy-to-use interface that uses the latest smart-phone and tablet touchscreen technology.

“Cadillac continues to capture the attention and imagination of luxury vehicle buyers across the Middle East and we are confident that the all-new XTS will attract a new generation of luxury customers to the brand,” said John Stadwick, President and Managing Director of General Motors Middle East. bh-en.cadillacarabia.com

The car will enhance Cadillac’s line-up of luxury vehicles and hopes to attract more aspirational customers to the premium automotive brand.

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18 The Cadillac 2013 XTS 19 Equipped with a 3.6 liter V-6 engine 20 Rear lights of the XTS 21 More interior space than midsize luxury cars

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Must Have

My Wish List The latest and most exclusive luxury items

Hublot Big Bang Ferrari Limited Series In celebration of Ferrari Hong Kong and Hublot Hong Kong’s 30th anniversary, the brands have released the Big Bang Ferrari Limited Series. Made of bright red ceramic, the timepiece fuses design, materials and mechanics in way that uniquely addresses the respective DNA of Hublot and Ferrari: innovation, performance, technology and exclusivity. With just a rarity of 30 numbered timepieces available, the watch is 45.5mm in diameter, with red hours and minute indexes on the sapphire dial, and features a black rubber and Schedoni leather strap with red stitching.

The Big Bang Ferrari Hong Kong is a pure expression of the Hublot value of The Art of Fusion with an innovative spirit from Ferrari. www.hublot.com

Chanel necklace Chanel’s 2014 Spring Summer pre collection was a contemporary yet classic showcase of pieces, which resembled little masterpieces of subtle embellishment and invention. Featuring materials such as plexiglass, metal, pearl, enamel and leather, the jewellery was an assortment of chunky bangles, metal link charm bracelets, and layers of pearls. This stunning metal necklace with multicoloured flowers in enamel reflects the season’s playful vibe, and is a must-have statement piece for every woman’s wardrobe! www.chanel.com

John Lobb Gloves Details are everything at John Lobb, the 164 year old company that has built a reputation on making some of the best men’s shoes around. Recently the brand launched a tie and glove collection, keeping in line with the brand’s focus on men’s accessories that are all about finessing a look. The gloves are made of calfskin, instead of the usual lambskin, to “use our savoir faire,” says chief executive of the brand, Mr Renaud Paul-Dauphin. The buckles are identical to those used on Lobb’s well-known monkstrap shoe, and each pair consists of two parts: a cashmereand-silk inner glove and a leather outer glove. www.johnlobb.com

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Must Have

Dupont Orient Express Diamond Collection S.T. Dupont has created the embodiment of ultimate luxury with this exceptional writing and lighter set representing the famous mythical train, the Orient Express. All decorative elements pay homage to the train; the colours of the carriages, the stained glass window, the chimney and even the Orient Express typography signature. The central medallion of the lighter is made in solid white gold and set with 129 white diamonds of 1.46 carats. Equipped with an 18-carat white-gold nib, the fountain pen is decorated with 8 pieces of white mother of pearl inlay.

Inspired by the Orient Express chimney, the solid white-gold clip of the fountain pen carries 71 white diamonds. The Diamond Collection is numbered out of 28 pieces throughout the world. www.st-dupont.com

TOD’s Leather Bracelet

Tag Heuer Aquaracer 72 For this year’s 34th America’s Cup, the R&D departments of TAG Heuer and Oracle Team USA co-invented onboard connectivity equipment and an ultra-innovative and intelligent smartwatch, which was the first watch designed specifically for and by a professional sailing team. To celebrate its ongoing commitment and the Aquaracer line’s three decades at the helm of luxury yachting excellence, Tag Heuer has launched a limited edition version; the Aquaracer 500m Calibre 72 Countdown Automatic Chronograph 43mm. With its unscratchable ceramic bezel, rubber coated pushers and screw-in crown; it is a true sailing countdown instrument, made to withstand the most extreme sailing conditions. www.tagheuer.com

In celebration of the holiday season, TOD’S has updated a selection of their classic signature luxury leather accessories, releasing them in a range of exotic skins and seasonal colours. This men’s modern wrap bracelet is made from neatly braided hand-woven leather and styled in a double wrap design. Made in Italy, it is embellished with TOD’s logoed nickel-plated metal hook. It comes in a range of colours, from two-tone in green, black, beige and yellow, to one tone colours of red, blue or black. The luxurious limited addition accessory makes the perfect festive gift and is available at TOD’s boutiques worldwide. www.tods.com

Porsche Gold Collection Sunglasses Porsche Design has launched the new ‘Gold Collection,’ a truly unique, luxurious and rich set of sunglasses for men.

The four designer sunglasses with frames made of pure gold are as Porsche Design says, ‘Engineered, not just perfectly designed.’ With lenses that come in three colour variants, brown, gold mirage, and blue mirage, these sunglasses are fundamental, not decorative. Only the most advanced materials of the highest quality are selected for the making of a Porsche Design product. Traditional craftsmanship is combined with modern technology to craft sunglasses with designs derived from the precise knowledge of optics and physiognomy. Porsche Design products are an example of timeless aesthetics and an uncompromising essence of passion, performance, and precision. www.porsche-design.com

Faberge Emotion Rings Fabergé adds to its best-seller Emotion collection with vivid rings in new colour ways: pink diamond, green emerald, purple sapphire, turquoise Paraiba tourmaline and multi-coloured gemstones. The Emotion collection, infused with intense colour, explores the intellectual and artistic richness of Fabergé’s world. These bold and daring jewels, pushing the boundaries of design and craftsmanship in true Fabergé spirit, illustrate the Fauvist view of colour as an emotional force and an expression of feeling. They include abstract compositions of work in blocks of colour-rich precious and fine gemstones, with each ring featuring over 300 unique gems. www.faberge.com

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Must Have

Breitling Navitimer Cosmonaute Blacksteel Breitling has released a 1,000-piece limited edition Blacksteel version of the Navitimer Cosmonaute, now available in the Middle East. The first space-going wrist chronograph is now in an all-black version and has been created using a highly resistant carbonbased coating. The dial and counters of this high-performance chronograph are in the same black colour, which are further enhanced by luminescent indications and small red hands. Paying homage to its original space flight, the engraved case-back bears the official Aurora 7 mission insignia, and the watch also features a black rubber strap which further enhances its tech-savvy, masculine appearance. www.breitling.com

Montblanc Heritage Writing Instruments

Golden Key by Selected Jewels German firm Selected Jewels has developed an innovative and original masterpiece, known as the Golden Key. The hand-crafted key is made out of a solid gold inset with 300 cut diamonds totalling 3.14 carat and is exclusively for Mercedes Benz drivers. The concept was to supplant the standard plastic key and instead create the bespoke Golden Key, which complements the elegant luxurious vehicle. Using rose, white and yellow gold plus platinum, the full range of brilliant high-class gemstones together with the option to have it personally engraved, make each of these highly sought after pieces of jewellery unique. www.selected-jewels.com

Montblanc is bringing back the pioneering spirit of the early 20th century – which was a major part of the company’s legacy – with the launch of the Montblanc Heritage Collection 1912. The collection pays tribute to a time when the newly established company revolutionized the manufacturing of fine writing instruments. With an uninterrupted history of delivering innovation, this latest Montblanc evolution in writing manufacture skilfully combines elegance in design, and traditional craftsmanship with a milestone in technology. The Montblanc Heritage Collection is the perfect piece to pass down through the generations. www.montblanc.com

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Book Review

Silver Seas There is nothing on earth that matches the freedom of a yacht. Travelling to the furthest corners of the world, all in the utmost luxury and comfort; is a reality that most of us can only dream of, but with SILVERYACHTS, that dream is brought to life. Take a look at a prime example of hand-crafted luxury at its most outstanding, with the new SILVERYACHTS book; the first volume of the new Brands by Hands series on bespoke manufacturing.

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hen the idea of a large and fast long-range world cruiser was born, critics said it could not be done. On the launch of SILVER in 2007, followed by SILVER ZWEI in 2009, the cynics had to eat their words, and the world sat up and took notice as SILVERYACHTS presence as a trendsetting market leader was affirmed.

A world leader in the design and manufacture of lightweight, high-speed and fuel-efficient yachts; SILVERYACHTS was founded in 2003 by German Industrialist Guido Krass with top yacht designer Espen Oeino. Since then, it has garnered a host of press coverage and awards for its elegant lines and premium technical specifications.

Slipping effortlessly through the water, the vessels in the Silver fleet are distinctive in their timeless, yet modern elegance and striking profiles. Able to cruise clear warm waters, or cross oceans in record time, SILVERYACHTS are the ultimate go-anywhere Super-

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yachts. Suitable for every type of exploration, they allow guests the freedom to see the world from a spacious yet intimate base. Explore an untouched beach; haggle in exotic markets; sample fresh local foods; swim with whales; watch the sun set; or sit under a sky full of stars, all in privacy and comfort.

Visually striking, stylish and sleek, SILVERYACHTS are aerodynamic and fuel-efficient-yachts, that set an example for the future of green yachting. No other yachts afloat marry style and performance so well.

Blending beauty with the highest levels of operational excellence, each individual yacht is a masterpiece of design and technology. Easily recognizable by their striking lines and design, they prove that it is possible to achieve unrivalled performance and speed without any compromise in appearance and comfort. The work of an expert design team, led by Espen Oeino together with SILVERYACTS’ naval architects, engineers and designers;

01 Lightweight, high-speed and fuel-efficient. Image by Klaus Jordan 02 The luxurious interior. Image by Klaus Jordan

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Book Review

Easily recognizable by their striking lines and design, they prove that it is possible to achieve unrivalled performance and speed without any compromise in appearance and comfort.

no aspect of build-process is ever compromised upon.

All elements are built and created by skilled craftsmen as one off pieces, with their bare hands. Respected and admired worldwide for their meticulous design, construction, and finish, they feature only the highest quality materials, with excellence apparent in every single detail.

In the in-depth insider’s look at this deluxe artisanal brand, readers of the new SILVERYACHTS book by teNeues publishing are able to gain a keen understanding of the care, exacting precision, and sophisticated knowledge behind every luxury vessel. Available with hardcover and jacket, this visually stunning book gives insight into every feature of the SILVERYACHTS, from engineering, performance, to the finest features.

Excerpts from SILVERYACHTS by Brands by Hands www.teneues.com/shop-us/books/design/silveryachts

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03 Cruising waters in record times.

Image by Klaus Jordan 04 Visually striking, they glide effortlessly through the water.

Image by Espen Ă˜ino 05 SILVERYACHTS, published by teNeues. Image by NERAM 06 Allowing guests the freedom to see the world from a spacious yet intimate base. Image by Guido Krass

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Editorial

Final PearlS

Mara’ee Bahrain Animal Production Show

Bahrain International Airshow

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fter the success of the first and second Bahrain Animal Production Shows held in November 2010 and March 2012, the Kingdom of Bahrain is pleased to announce the third Bahrain Animal Production Show 2014 mara’ee to be held during the month of March 2014.

Taking place at the Bahrain International Endurance Village, the trade exhibition will run for four days starting from the opening ceremony on 19th of March, and will continue until the 22nd of March. The event aims to highlight the latest developments in agricultural fields in the areas of animal production, poultry, fish farming, veterinary and food industries, exchange experiences, and encourage investment & business deals.

The exhibition and the activities creates a golden opportunity for industry leaders and spectators to meet under the animal production and fish farming umbrella, covering the industry on all levels; commercial, educational, informational and recreational.

It aims to provide learning opportunities to visitors of all ages, backgrounds and specializations, and to offer knowledge and exposure through the wide range of shows and activities. By creating a fun and attractive environment, mara’ee, Bahrain Animal Production Show is suitable for participation from everyone. websrv.municipality.gov.bh/maraee

he Bahrain International Airshow (BIAS) has established itself as the most elite business-to-business event on the global airshow calendar. Held at the five star purpose built venue of Sakhir Airbase, BIAS is a biennial event with the third edition taking place from Thursday 16 to Saturday 18 January 2014.

The latest trends in the aerospace industry and numerous innovations in the respective field will be the main attraction of the show, and numerous types of aircrafts will be on display. Both military and civil aircrafts will take place in daily static and flying displays, as well as unique spectacular night flying and formation displays.

BIAS also provides a unique platform for market opportunities and developing networks within the global business community. Established in 2010 and now a must attend calendar event, there is a plethora of activities for both members of the public and those in the trade industry. The Airshow will be managed and organised through the continuing partnership of Bahrain Civil Aviation Affairs and Farnborough International Ltd, and Gulf Air is proud to be the official carrier. www.bahraininternationalairshow.com

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