Durrah issue 31 by Durrah Luxury Magazine

volume 08 Issue 03 SPRING 2016

BD 3.5 Sr 35 DHS 35 KD 2.5 US$ 10

O WINNER OF GENEVA GRAND PRIX D'HORLOGERIE

BIG BANG BRODERIE U

hublot.com

luminor 1950 8 days gmt (ref. 233)

PANERAI BOUTIQUE MANAMA - Moda Mall - +973 1743 1166 - panerai@asiajewellers.com pa n e r a i . c o m

design a n d technology.

Haute Joaillerie, place Vend么me since 1906

MODA MALL +973 17 13 11 22 www.vancleefarpels.com

Majestic Cadeau ImpĂŠrial Earrings, two exceptional pear-shaped D Internally Flawless diamonds â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 43.14 cts. Mystery Set rubies and diamonds.

010

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

Volume 08 Issue 03 Spring 2016 012 First Impression A word from Durrah’s editor in chief

014 Transporting the Future Interview with His Excellency Mr Kamal bin Ahmed Mohammed

022 Welcome to Bahrain Interview with Shaikh Khaled bin Humood Al Khalifa

026 Experts in Exclusivity Bahrain Jewellery Centre’s Mohammed Al Shirazi

030 Artistic View ‘Views’ exhibition at the Ritz-Carlton Bahrain

034 Bold Expertise Haute Joaillerie from Chopard

038 Prestigious Project Layan project by Bin Faqeeh Real Estate

042 Luxury Lifestyle Developing Marassi Al Bahrain

044 Eternal Art Interview with Hublot’s Jean-Claude Biver

050 The Shaik’s Kingdom of Creativity Who is Designer Shaik?

056 Unique Expression Interview with Carl F. Bucherer’s Sascha Moeri

060 Contemporary Classics The latest timepieces for men

064 Chic Appeal The latest timepieces for women

070 Designs for the Soul Interview with Barnaba Fornasetti

076 Magnetic Aromas Fragrances for men

081 Elegantly Charming Fragrances for women

086 The Sound of Excellence Porsche Design 911 Soundbar

088 Enriching the Senses Bahraini artist Ebrahim Mohamed Busaad

IT support Digital Manager Hussain Al Anjawi

094 Transform Your Future Save and win millions with Al Hayrat

096 Urban Jungle Spring/Summer 16 from Versace

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

100 Inspired by Nature The new collection from Bottega Veneta

102 British Charm New season from Burberry

volume 08 Issue 03 SPRING 2016

BD 3.5 Sr 35 DHS 35 KD 2.5 US$ 10

104 Retro Glamour 50 years since YSL Rive Gauche

106 Fashionably French Furniture company Gautier

110 Brilliant Boutiques Shopping destinations around the world

118 Uncovering Kyoto Travel to Japan’s culture capital

124 Invigorating Bahrain Interview with GM of Four Seasons Bahrain

128 Grand Getaways A selection of luxury hotels

136 Exclusive Tranquillity The best international spas

144 Epicurean Adventure Top dining locations around the globe

152 Culinary Connoisseur Recipes from Chef Koerper’s Restaurante Eleven

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

158 Breaking New Ground Latest luxury automobiles

176 Must Haves Men Luxury wish list for men

182 Must Haves Women Luxury wish list for women

188 Palestine on a Plate Cookbook by Dima Al Sharif

192 Final Pearl Formula 1

ISSN 2210-1322

DURRAHMAGAZINE

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

030 022

014

044

034

070

128

106

088

124

118

104

158

136

152

012

Welcome

First Impression A word from the editor-in-chief

t seems we are always celebrating the good news and achievements of Bahrain, and this issue is no exception. We open with an interview with His Excellency Mr Kamal bin Ahmed Mohammed, Bahrain’s Minister of Transportation and Telecommunications, who is responsible for all of Bahrain’s transport infrastructure. His Excellency speaks with Durrah about some of the exciting changes in the local transport industry, as well as the success of the recent Bahrain International Airshow. At a time when Bahrain is thriving more than ever, his plans for developing the GCC Rail and Bahrain Public Transport Company as well as implementing the new Airport Modernisation Programme couldn’t be more timely. It seems only fitting then, that we should also speak to Acting Chief Executive of Bahrain Exhibitions & Tourism Authority, His Excellency Shaikh Khaled bin Humood Al Khalifa. Just this year, Manama was declared the ‘Gulf Capital of Tourism’, and Shaikh Khaled’s aim is to continue this growth through hosting

a number of exciting events and activities. It’s easy to see why we are attracting more tourists than ever before, with plenty of local artists, events, and attractions, to keep everyone entertained. This issue we’ve chosen to highlight some of these, with a look at the Marassi Al Bahrain development and luxurious Layan Project by Bin Faqeeh Real Estate. Bahraini artist Ebrahim Mohamed Busaad showcases some of his work, and we interview General Manager of the newly opened Four Seasons Bahrain. On a global scale, a key feature for this issue was speaking with the legendary Jean-Claude Biver, who’s had a lifetime working in the luxury watch industry and played a key role in the revival of some of the major brands; currently based at Hublot. We also have a healthy dose of European fashion and design, and recipes from the Mediterranean. We travel to Japan to discover why Kyoto should be your next holiday destination,

and take a look at some of the finest hotels, spas, restaurants and boutiques around the world. There is plenty more to discover, and we’re sure you won’t be bored as we offer the usual handpicked selection of the finest in luxury. We wish you all the best for the year ahead, and will see you at the much-awaited Bahrain Formula One Grand Prix in April!

Khalid Ahmed Juman Editor in Chief

014

Special Feature

Transporting the Future His Excellency Engineer Kamal bin Ahmed Mohamed was appointed Minister of Transportation in February 2012 and in December 2014 as Minister of Transportation and Telecommunications. He holds overall responsibility for Bahrain’s transport infrastructure covering policy, regulation and the development and delivery of projects to meet the Kingdom’s future transport needs, as well as the country’s postal services. He is also responsible for implementing policies and developing the telecommunications industry in the Kingdom. In an exclusive interview, His Excellency speaks to Durrah about the exciting changes in the transport industry in Bahrain, and everything from the GCC Rail, to the new airport modernisation programme, to the most recent Bahrain International Airshow.

rior to his appointment as Minister of Transportation and Telecommunications, His Excellency Kamal bin Ahmed was Minister of Cabinet Affairs from February 2011. He previously spent 8 years at the Economic Development Board leaving his role as Chief Operating Officer to become a Government Minister. In addition to this, He is currently a board member of the following organisations; Bahrain Economic Development Board, Bahrain Mumtalakat Holding Company (Mumtalakat), Vice Chairman of Gulf Air Board and Falcon Group, and National Authority of Qualifications and Quality Assurance Authority for Education and Training (QQA).

016

Special Feature

Interview with His Excellency Engineer Kamal bin Ahmed Mohamed You have just concluded the fourth edition of the Bahrain International Airshow. How do you rate the success of the 2016 Bahrain International Airshow compared to previous years? BIAS 2016, held under the patronage of HM King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, King of the Kingdom of Bahrain on January 21st–23rd 2016 was our most successful edition of the show since its inception in 2010, as evidenced by the total value of deals announced, as well as the largest ever participation of international companies.

What were some of the key highlights from this year? We had a very exciting line-up of flying displays by teams that included the Saudi Hawks, UAE Al Fursan, India’s Sarang Helicopter Display Team, and Mark Jeffries and the Twister Aerobatics team. We also had an impressive display from commercial airlines including Qatar Airways’ Airbus A380 and A350, Gulf Air’s A320, Kuwait Airways’ A350 and its recently delivered A320 equipped with Sharklets, as well as Emirates Airlines’ latest A380 and 319 Business Jet. Our Airshow also coincided with the 200th year celebrations of Bahrain-British relations, and BAE Systems from the UK hosted a special exhibition to commemorate this at the show. On the business side, we added new elements to the show in response to our clients’ feedback and these proved highly successful. For example, we added a conference program, with a conference titled ‘Air Transport in the 21st Century’, which was held on the second day of the show. On the third day, The International Air Transport Association

01 Portrait of His Excellency Kamal bin Ahmed 02 HRH Prime Minister Shaik Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa 03 Aircraft display at the 2016 Bahrain International Airshow

(IATA) held a seminar about its new IATA Standard Safety Assessment (ISSA) programme for operators of smaller aircrafts. In addition, we launched a Hosted Buyer program, a dedicated business program in which we pre-arranged one-to-one meetings for companies who wished to hold meetings with potential clients. Finally, for the second time, BIAS featured an exhibition hall for companies wishing to showcase their latest products and services. In 2016, we almost doubled the size of this hall in order to enable a larger number of companies to participate, and the feedback we received about this was very encouraging.

With a recent rise in bus ridership figures since you launched the new public transport system in the Kingdom, what hopes do you have for the future of public transport in Bahrain? A solid, integrated and efficient transport system is the foundation of sustainable economic and business growth. Since we launched the new public transport system in April 2015, ridership has increased by more than 50%, which we take as evidence not only of the quality of the service provided, but more importantly, of the demand that we have here in Bahrain for high quality public transport. Building upon this success, we are continuously working with the bus operator Bahrain Public Transport Company (BPTC) to improve the service via new or modified routes as per our customers’ feedback, and we are also undertaking a large-scale initiative of rebuilding old bus shelters and adding more shelters and bus stops to the network, in order

to help us achieve our network coverage goals. While the bus service will continue to be improved in line with international standards, we are also on the verge of launching a tender for studying the development of the Light Rail network in the Kingdom.

What is the status of the GCC Rail and specifically progress on the Bahraini side? The GCC Rail project will connect the six member states by rail, serving both passenger and cargo services, and is one of the key strategic projects in the GCC Region. The first phase of the Bahrain GCC Rail project will be the construction of the King Hamad Causeway, a 21km causeway adjacent to the existing King Fahad Causeway, to link the Kingdom of Bahrain and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia by rail. The feasibility study for the causeway has been completed and is now being jointly reviewed.

Can you tell us a bit about the new airport modernisation programme (AMP)? On February 17, 2016, HRH Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa, in the presence of HRH Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, inaugurated the kick-off of the airport modernisation program, which will see the Bahrain International Airport increase its capacity to handle 14 million passengers annually by the year 2019 upon its completion. The AMP is the largest infrastructure project for the Bahrain International Airport and is being executed in line with the highest standards of safety, security, technology and environment. In order to keep up with the rapid pace of progress in the aviation industry, MTT

Our Airshow also coincided with the 200th year celebrations of Bahrain-British relations, and BAE Systems from the UK hosted a special exhibition to commemorate this at the show

018

Special Feature

has put in place this ambitious program, which will be implemented in phases in order to enhance the infrastructure and services in the sector. The program revolves around a new passenger terminal building that will replace the existing terminal at the current Airport, which will be built according to the latest technological, safety and security standards. It will significantly enhance the passenger experience, as well as providing numerous opportunities for retail and job creation.

What effect do you think the development of this new AMP will have on the way the Bahrain Airport operates? The AMP is one of the most important strategic projects for the Kingdom of Bahrain, as the Airport serves all economic sectors and is a gateway for Bahrain to the rest of the world. Our overall strategy for this year and for the longer term is to consistently grow BIA’s capacity, connectivity and network to complement Bahrain’s progress as a tourist, business and aviation hub. By 2018, the new modern, state-of-the-art passenger terminal building will increase BIA’s capacity by over 50%, expand its services and commercial offerings, and optimise its operational efficiency. On an operational level, we plan to continue to invest in our infrastructure, facilities and services to sustain BIA’s reputation for superior customer service, speed and operational efficiency, BIA’s key

differentiators vis-a-vis its regional counterparts. We are expecting to complete Phase I of the project in the third quarter of 2019, and expect to see a 3-fold increase in direct flights and number of airlines using the new passenger terminal building as a result.

Gulf Air recently became certified with five Information Technology ISO certifications, can you tell us a bit more about this? Gulf Air, our national carrier, has been undergoing significant restructuring and cost-cutting, and I believe we still have more work that needs to be done to improve the company and minimise financial losses while operating at a high service level. We are proud that the airline recently became certified with Information Technology ISO certifications in the five areas of Quality Management; Environmental Management; Service Management; Information Security Management; and Energy Management Systems. These ISO Certifications acknowledge Gulf Air’s successful implementation of international standards and best practices, as it continuously improves the quality of the airline’s Information Technology services as well as their impact on the environment. Gulf Air continually strives to safeguard and enhance these areas across the organisation – critical to ensuring customer satisfaction and positively impacting the enduser and passenger experience.

Bahrain Post sits under MTT’s umbrella. How are you making sure that in a digital world, postal services remain relevant? We are adopting a one-stop-shop approach that will bring both government and non-government services under one roof, in order to provide convenient, efficient and cost effective services for our clients. We are also making significant investments in infrastructure and technology to enhance the user experience. For example, we are refurbishing several of Bahrain Post’s branches in key areas to provide a more customerfriendly experience. We are working with numerous Government entities with the aim of streamlining consumer and business services through Bahrain Post, to make it easier and more efficient for customers. We recently launched a service whereby you can renew your CPR via post. We have also invested in technology and have launched a postal services mobile application. The new Bahrain Post website will also be launched shortly, and we continue to look into ways to improve our digital presence and services. On the regulations side, we have recently established a dedicated Post Sector Regulations Directorate at the Ministry, responsible for ensuring that the post industry is regulated and monitored with the aim to provide optimal service standards to clients. This follows from the issuance of a Postal Law in 2014, and a set of regulations has now been issued which will, for the first time, enable us to regulate and license all post service providers in the Kingdom.

04 The AMP launch event held in February 05 New bus services in the Kingdom 06 Implementing bus transport systems 05

Where is the Kingdom of Bahrain in terms of telecommunications advancement? Bahrain has taken huge strides in the area of telecoms over the past year or so. In 2015, HRH Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa was awarded the International Telecommunication Union Award, marking ITUâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 150th anniversary at the UN headquarters, in New York on 26th September 2015. On November 30, 2015, the ITU recognised the Kingdom of Bahrain as having achieved the most growth globally in the IDI (as an index value) between 2010 and 2015. This reaffirms the Kingdomâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s status as one of the most dynamic countries in the world in telecommunications. In terms of rankings, the Kingdom of Bahrain has made remarkable progress in the United Nations E-Government Survey 2014 in eGovernment Development and Online Service Delivery indices, taking top place in five geographic regions, and advancing from 36th to 18th ranking globally in eGovernment development index (EDGI). In this global report, which is solely dedicated to evaluating all 193 UN Members States, Bahrain ranks 1st at the level of the Arab and Middle East states in readiness, advanced by five points in eParticipation index to rank 14th, compared to 19th in last yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s report. It has also been categorised for the third time in a row among the top eight countries worldwide in web measurement index.

022

Up Close and Personal

The newly formed Bahrain Exhibitions & Tourism Authority has one clear mission: to promote growth of the tourism industry in Bahrain, and position it as the leading travel destination in the region. Driving this operation is Acting Chief Executive of BTEA Shaikh Khaled bin Humood Al Khalifa, who in an exclusive interview with Durrah, spoke about the initiative.

Welcome to Bahrain

he Kingdom of Bahrain has embarked on a new tourism strategy to promote Bahrain’s authentic identity and experiences; paving the way for the formation of the Bahrain Tourism & Exhibitions Authority (BTEA). This year alone, Manama was declared as the ‘Gulf Capital of Tourism’ in a decision made by the Gulf Cooperation Council in the third quarter of 2015. The initiative has spurred a year-long calendar of activities attracting all walks of life. Heading this ambitious initiative is the Acting Chief Executive of BETA, Shaikh Khaled bin Humood Al Khalifa. “Bahrain is a remarkable place. Not just for tourism, but as a cosmopolitan city and a major business hub in the region. Bahrain›s tourism strategy is based on four fundamental factors; awareness, attractions, accessibility, and accommodation, ” he said.

“BTEA is tasked with a mission – to position Bahrain as the leading tourism destination in the region and drive intra-tourism traffic with Gulf and regional countries ultimately leading to the growth of the tourism industry. The new national strategy is a collective effort spearheaded by BTEA along with a strong partnership with the public and private sectors,” Shaikh Khaled said. “Our main focus this year is to promote the Kingdom through the ‘Manama Gulf Capital of Tourism’ initiative. The initiative acts as our jumping board to revitalise the tourism sector by hosting events and activities, which are based on a two-fold strategy to attract tourists and reenergise tourism. The tourism industry has been identified as a ‘major non-oil economic growth driver’. Every month,

024

Up Close and Personal

we will be hosting an event catering to different segments of tourists,” Shaikh Khaled said. Among the spectacular events held is ‘Disney Live! Mickey’s Music Festival’. The family-centric musical performance will be coming to Bahrain for the first time in March. The five-day program, held between the 15th and 19th of March at the Bahrain International Exhibition Centre, will tantalise the audience with fun-filled entertainment. Other events include a ‘Souq Festival’ aimed at promoting the traditional open markets in Bahrain, and a ‘Light Festival’, along with concerts during the Eid season. A key element of the new strategy is to create a unified platform for all events in the Kingdom, whether organised directly by the Authority or other government entities, through a newly launched website bahraincalendar.bh

“The aim is to create the right platform for visitors to find out about upcoming events so they can schedule their visits to Bahrain. The website is a one-stop channel streamlining all events happening in the Kingdom,” he added. According to recent statistics, more than 11 million visitors came the Kingdom of Bahrain in the year 2015, and the Kingdom is looking forward to an annual increase of approximately 8 per cent this year. “The growth is remarkable; Bahrain’s tourism mix covers multiple sectors from business travellers to leisure visitors entering via Bahrain International Airport and the King Fahd Causeway, which links Bahrain to Saudi Arabia, and it’s exactly this diverse market segmentation that is driving new demand and opportunities,” added Shaikh Khaled.

“This past year, Bahrain has witnessed the launch of many new, exciting hospitality offerings with more being planned in the near future. There is so much potential in the Kingdom for new properties especially hotel-apartments,” he added. “The growth of tourism tracks is symmetric, where the growth of exhibitions and conferences is closely linked to the economic aspect. Hence, the exhibitions and conference tourism has been given the attention required for the sector to reach international standards, by establishing a new exhibitions and conference centre,” Shaikh Khaled said. “Our aim is to create sustainable growth for the tourism industry and increase the GDP contribution of the tourism sector. The ultimate goal is to turn the tourism sector into a main component of our national economy,” added Shaikh Khaled.

Our aim is to create a sustainable growth for the tourism industry and increase the GDP contribution of the tourism sector 01 Skyline of Bahrain during the festive season 02 With His Majesty, King Hamad Bin Issa Al-Khalifa, at the Windsor Horse Show 03 H E Sheikh Khaled Bin Humood Al-Khalifa, Acting Chief Executive Officer 04 Unveiling of the Calendar of events for the ‘Manama Gulf Capital of Tourism 2016’ at Bab Al Bahrain

02 03

026

Special Feature

Experts in Exclusivity Established in 1978, Bahrain Jewellery Centre has grown from a small business in the souk to an exclusive dealer for the world’s most renowned watches, jewellery, leather goods and fashion. The company’s long history, loyal customer base, and excellent service have propelled them to their position as leaders in the market. Durrah speaks with the brand’s Executive Director Mohammed Shirazi about what makes Bahrain Jewellery Centre so unique.

How would you define luxury, and how does Bahrain Jewellery Centre reflect this? Luxury to me is not just owning a diamond necklace or an attractive watch, I’m more concerned about the details. I would define luxury by the clarity and cut of the alleged diamond necklace or the watch by its mechanism and movement with the highest Swiss quality and workmanship. At BJC, we are eager to find the highest quality luxury jewellery and watches; which is reflected in the brands we carry.

What does a brand or product need to have to meet the criteria for being stocked at Bahrain Jewellery Centre? We look for renowned brands with a great history in their respective fields and we can assure you that any products showcased at BJC meet this criteria. We are always interested in the finest quality of jewellery

and watches and only stock brands we truly believe in. This has been evident since the inception of Bahrain Jewellery Centre in 1978.

Established in 1978, what qualities have made the business so successful over the years? The success of BJC depends upon a few factors: variety, high quality, latest collections, great customer relationship, and service. We only pursue the best that the market has to offer and respect that our clients have different tastes that we need to attend to, thus providing diversity in our merchandise. The BJC buying team travels yearly to the SIHH watch fair in Geneva, and Baselworld watch and jewellery fair in Basel, to bring the latest products and designs to the market. Our customer relationship has strengthened year by year as we have developed a close-knit relationship with our customers based on their trust in us and

028

Special Feature

Our customer relationship has strengthened year by year as we have developed a close-knit relationship with our customers based on their trust in us and our products

02 01 Mohammed Shirazi, Abbas Shirazi, Majeed Shirazi , HH Prime Minister Prince Khalifa Bin Salman Al Khalifa , Abul Qassim Shirazi

our products. In addition, BJC now has a standalone service centre in Moda Mall that caters to our customers’ aftersales needs.

02 Mohammed Shirazi, Majeed Shirazi , HE Shaikh Ali Bin Khalifa Al Khalifa

What has 2015 had in store for Bahrain Jewellery Centre and what future projects do you have planned?

03 Hussain Shirazi, Mohammed Shirazi, Ahmed Shirazi

We are very proud of our accomplishments so far and can say with great pride that Bahrain Jewellery Centre is the leading watch and jewellery provider in Bahrain with 15 stand-alone multi and mono brand boutiques. 2016 is a busy year for us as we anticipate several boutique inaugurations such as the BJC boutique at the Four Seasons Hotel, TAG Heuer boutique at City Centre, and the newly refurbished and expanded Piaget boutique at Moda Mall.

What is some of the best advice you have received in your years working for the company? The best advice I have received came to me many years before taking on my position at BJC. The advice

was received from my late father, Abdulrazak Shirazi, who was one of the founders of the company. “Be honest, be kind, and work hard,” is what he always used to tell me and is a guidance that I will cherish during my lifetime.

What experience do you think customers who shop at Bahrain Jewellery Centre are hoping for and how do you offer this? When customers shop at BJC they are putting their faith in us and our products. They are presented with the highest standard of luxury products and equally high standards of any future service necessary. Satisfying our customers for the long run is one of our main objectives. Our staff have great knowledge of our brands and the craftsmanship that comes along with each product, ensuring the customer’s enquiries are fulfilled. Moreover, our service centre bestows the latest and most refined equipment available with welltrained craftsmen to perform the designated aftersales care or service needed.

What are your aspirations for the future of the company? To me this company is a family legacy with a great reputation that I hope will live on and prosper for many generations to come. www.bjc.com.bh

TADASHI

SHOJI

030

Special Feature

Featuring the work of over 50 local and international artists, ‘Views’ is a stunning new exhibition that will be open to the public from March 10th at the Ritz-Carlton Bahrain. An initiative of the Bahrain Art Society, ‘Views’, celebrates the strength of diversity of artistic expression in Bahrain, through its carefully curated selection

Artistic View O rganised in collaboration with ArtBahrain, ‘Views’ will present a selection of work of over 50 local and international artists, from The Bahrain Art Society, Al Riwaq Art Space, ArtBahrain and Al Bareh Art Gallery – each of whom have long played a pivotal role in the art scene in Bahrain. The Bahrain Art Society, a non-profit Art society established in 1983, is a pioneer of artistic expression in the Kingdom and a central figure in establishing a foundation for the artistic community. The Society will present a carefully considered selection of work of 30 established local artists who have long practiced in Bahrain and who have exhibited internationally over the past 3 decades. The Bahrain Art Society has spearheaded international awareness of art and creative expression within the Kingdom, and in many ways has created opportunity for emerging artists to pursue an artistic career.

Al Riwaq Art Space, a non-profit art space dedicated to promoting local contemporary art and design and renowned for their commitment to supporting emerging artists, will present a specifically curated collection of work that exemplifies their longstanding vision. Al Riwaq will also present the Art Bahrain/Nest Art Prize, an initiative of H.E. Shaikh Rashid bin Khalifa Al Khalifa and Al Riwaq Art Space. The first of its kind in the Kingdom, the prize has created a platform, impetus and opportunity for young artists to focus on their artistic career and has offered informal arts education through curatorial mentorship, collaboration and critique. Al Bareh Art Gallery, which is one of the most recognised galleries in the region, will exhibit a selection of established regional, modern and contemporary artists. Their selection is in a sense a tribute to Bahrain’s artistic diversity and the Kingdom’s role as a unique

032

Special Feature

and longstanding cultural and creative hub. Exhibited artists include Nazar Yahya (Iraq), Modhir Ahmed (IraqSweden), Seman Khawam (Lebanon), and Resmi Al Kafaji (Iraq). ArtBahrain, a nonprofit arts organisation founded by H.E. Shaikh Rashid bin Khalifa Al Khalifa in 2010, and the main supporter of the event, will showcase a selection of international artists including Anne Senstad (Norway), Sookoon Ang (Singapore), Lido Rico (Spain) and Sebastien Bieniek (Germany). ‘Views’ aims to celebrate and exemplify the unique and diverse artistic community in Bahrain. Each of the participants- whether a gallery, society or non-profit organisation, has played a pivotal, albeit distinct role in ensuring, supporting and maintaining a thriving and unique art community. ‘Views’ therefore speaks of the collaborative and the interconnected nature of Bahrain’s creative community, through the varying expressions of ideas, thoughts, concerns and perspectives. The exhibition is open to the public from 4pm on Thursday 10th March at the Ritz Carlton, Bahrain, and opening hours are from 4pm-9pm daily, and Saturday 10am-9pm. www.ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/middle-east/bahrain 02

03 01 Lido Rico (Spain), Seven Stimuli (Series) - 2016, Polyester Resin, Glass and Collage, 21 x25 x15 cm (each) 02 Art Patron and Founder of ‘Views’, H.E. Shaikh Rashid bin Khalifa Al Khalifa with dignitaries and diplomats at the Opening on Wednesday 9th March, 2016. 03 Damien Hirst, Psalm Print Confitebor Tibi (Series), Silkscreen Print with Glaze on Paper, 74 x 71.5 cm 04 A view of the Bahrain Arts Society’s exhibition

03 04

Dip into a sanctuary of calm Escape to an island of pure indulgence. Modern in design and filled with natural light, our Spa offers massages and skin care inspired by traditional healing therapies. With 17 treatment rooms, it’s the perfect setting for spa parties – enhanced by two fitness centres, five swimming experiences and warm, thoughtful Four Seasons care. For more information or to reserve an appointment: (973) 1711 5000 fourseasons.com/bahrain Ask about spa memberships – ideal for singles, couples and families.

034

Jewellery

Bold Expertise A year after joining the Fédération Française de la Couture in January 2015 as a Jewellery member, Chopard showcased its latest Haute Joaillerie creations as part of the Paris Haute Couture week 2016. The stunning pieces demonstrate unmistakably modern artistic inspiration, interpreted through the traditional expertise of Chopard craftsmanship.

01 Haute Joaillerie Bracelet 02 Temptations Ring 03 Haute Joaillerie Butterfly Earrings

H 02

aute Couture and Haute Joaillerie share the fundamental values of creativity, excellence and expertise. In becoming a Jewellery member of the Fédération Française de la Couture, Chopard chose the most beautiful means of highlighting the talent and exceptional work of its jewellery artisans. On January 27th and 28th 2016, Chopard once again testified to this alliance by presenting the latest creations crafted within its Haute Joaillerie ateliers in Geneva. Just as Haute Couture’s ‘petites mains’ (gifted seamstresses) lovingly assemble elaborate gowns, the Haute Joaillerie artisans at Chopard demonstrate their virtuosity and technical genius by associating vividly coloured precious stones, gold and titanium. Cleverly mingling traditional and modern techniques, the Geneva-based Maison unveiled three splendid cuff-bracelets graced with sparkling colourful gems set on titanium – a metal chosen for its distinctive characteristics. Alongside its inherent lightness, titanium

offers the advantage of lending itself to being coloured in a broad palette of shades. It therefore matches the colours of the stones with which it is adorned, thereby accentuating their brilliance, radiance, and strength. Each of the three bracelets feature a different inspiration and design, and their crafting calls for a blend of extreme creativity and ingenuity. The first bracelet is like a flight towards spring: two butterflies made of topazes, Paraiba tourmalines, and amethysts are perched gracefully on gem-set titanium foliage. In step with changing seasons and occasions, these two butterflies detach from their leafy bracelet; the wings of the first are transformed into an exquisite pair of earrings, while the second can become a brooch. This cuff-bracelet thereby delivers a complete jewellery set in one. The second cuff bracelet skilfully combines 18-carat white gold and titanium in a precious interlacing pattern of amethysts, emeralds, Paraiba tourmalines, and sapphires. The use of titanium

036

Jewellery

makes this bracelet as light as lacework and even leads one to forget the very presence of the gemsetting due to the colouring of the metal. Finally, the third bracelet is composed of two rows of flowers with pear-shaped diamond petals. This bracelet sparkles with subtly graded shades of blue sapphires, Paraiba tourmalines and white diamonds set on titanium in matching colours. To round off this stunning selection, Chopard also unveiled a splendid necklace: a constellation of titanium and precious red and blue stones, whose centrepiece is a 14-carat pear-shaped tanzanite. A pair of earrings also features the surprising use of sculpted jade, along with emeralds and diamonds. In addition, the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Fleurs dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Opalesâ&#x20AC;? ring collection continues to blossom with enchanting grace. After launching the three first flowers with opal hearts during the Paris Haute Couture Week in July 2015, the jeweller now enriched its mysterious bouquet with three new rings. Adorned like their predecessors with a majestic central opal, they unfurl their precious petals across an exquisite gold and titanium structure. Born from the instigation of Caroline Scheufele, co-President and Artistic Director of Chopard, and

under her guidance, Haute Joaillerie has developed in a truly spectacular fashion at Chopard over the past few years. Haute Joaillerie constitutes a true centre of excellence within Chopard, which masters every stage in their creation, from design through to production and finishing. Behind each of these creations is a story of hands: those of the nimble-fingered, patient and inventive artisans who have successively played their own crucial roles. The exceptional pieces have drawn upon the skills of every Haute Joaillerie craft: designers, wax jewellersculptors, jewellers, lapidaries, gemsetters and polishers. From lines to volumes and using gold or precious stones, they infuse life into this jewellery by combining their talents. The smooth, complementary interaction between the different skills is facilitated by uniting more than 30 crafts under the same roof. They represent a wealth that the Scheufele family carefully nurtures, by focusing on the transmission of knowledge and training from generation to generation. Chopard is keenly aware that the most precious heritage is above all human. www.chopard.com/high-jewellery

04 Haute Joaillerie Teardrop Earrings 05 Meticulous craftsmanship in practice 06 The making of the Butterfly Bracelet

05 06

038

Special Feature

Bin Faqeeh Real Estate Investment Company is a privately held company established in February 2008 in the Kingdom of Bahrain. The company has an impressive five-year plan, known as the “Limited 5”, which entails the launch of a new limited edition luxury project each year for five years. This year, Bin Faqeeh officially announced the launch of its ground-breaking new freehold project “Layan” set to open in Durrat Marina. Layan will become an industry trendsetter as it leads the market for mixed-use projects of unsurpassable luxury. The project’s various facilities, strategic location and unparalleled prestige combine to create a truly eye-catching landmark. Durrah speaks with Head of Marketing Nadia Bouslama to find out more.

01 Portrait of Nadia Bouslama 02 Birds eye view of the Layan Project 03 A project of unsurpassable luxury

Prestigious Project 01

Can you give us a brief overview of the mission of Bin Faqeeh Real Estate Investment Company? The Bin Faqeeh mission is to provide the Bahraini real estate market with a variety of projects in order to satisfy all categories: Bin Faqeeh, real estate for everyone, everywhere. We have projects in Bahrain Bay, Juffair, Seef, Reef Island, and we will launch our new project Layan in Durrat Marina on March 25th and 26th 2016. It is also within our mission to participate in the development and the promotion of Bahrain. We started a new project called “The Limited 5”. Included in this program are unique projects by their locations, facilities and entertainment. The plan is to launch one project per year for 5 years. We started by launching the Waterbay in Bahrain Bay in 2015, and in March we will launch Layan. The Limited 5 Project will focus on delivering not just Real Estate to our clients but a unique and unmatched experience. Layan will be one of a kind in the world. It is the only residential and commercial project that will have its own private waterpark. The waterpark can be accessed through a slide that is connected to the balcony of a selected number of exclusive apartments. Projects such as this will certainly participate in promoting Bahrain.

What do you think sets your company apart from the rest? What sets our company apart from the others is, first of all, the chairman Faisal A. Faqeeh who is a visionary. He come up with unique concepts and

follows the project closely to make sure that his vision is translated to reality. Second, we are trendsetters and not followers. We never look at what the competition does. Instead we always think what can we offer better than last time to our customers to make their experience more enjoyable and unique. Third, our pricing strategy, we always price as per the budget of our target market for each project. Overall whatever we do we keep in mind the benefit of our clients, which makes it easier to sell once we launch. Finally, our marketing strategy. We create interest by organising exciting events and an interactive marketing strategy to ensure that by the time we launch our clients know our projects very well, and since the project is unique and the prices are well studied, people don’t want to miss such an opportunity.

You have recently announced plans for the exciting new ‘Layan’ project, set to open in Durrat Marina. What difference do you think this project will make to the lifestyle of Bahrain?

What are the key factors you consider when committing to an investment?

Layan will offer a fully immersive experience to its users. People can swim for a continuous 500m in a pool surrounded by manicured landscaping, or relax on a tube and let the undercurrent float them gently around the pool. For those who are more daring there is a surfing pool, where they can practice their surfing skills. Adults and kids can enjoy lunch in one of the two in-water restaurants, or they can go to a family movie night out in the unique water movie theatre in Bahrain. Residents and their guests can also choose among 38 different retails, coffee shops and restaurants just an elevator ride away from the comfort of their homes. To

The added value to our customers and their budget.

How has the real estate market in Bahrain changed over recent years, and where do you see it heading? Before 1999 the Bahrain real estate market landscape was mostly based on low buildings no higher than 5 storeys. Since 1999 King Hamad has reshaped the real estate market by encouraging the development of towers, shopping malls and more high scale projects.

Layan is a residential wonder and a family retreat. This project, as mentioned before, is a one of a kind in the world. It has been designed with the sole objective of offering as much entertainment variety as possible to the residents. We want to avoid being close to a mall to offer attraction to our clients. Adding entertainment and unique projects such as Layan to Bahrain will promote the Kingdom further and will bring more buyers from Saudi, Kuwait, Qatar and even other countries. This will be beneficial for the image of Bahrain and its economy.

What are some of the facilities and prestigious attractions that the project will feature?

complete the experience of Lavishness we offer 24-hour “room service” and housekeeping. Other amenities will include: Male and Female Gyms, Squash Courts, Health Centre, Spa, Billiards Room, Game Room, Indoor Play Area for toddlers and regularly scheduled children’s activities.

Why was the location Durrat Marina chosen? As mentioned, our strategy is to be ahead of the trend, and we feel that this area will be developed now that the project of King Abdullah University and Sheikh Isa Hospital are planned. By developing in Durrat Marina now, we offer a great investment opportunity to our clients.

Do you have any other major projects coming up that we should look out for? We are constantly brain storming and planning for new exciting projects, and in 2017 we will launch another Limited 5 Project. However, we constantly launch new projects for different budgets throughout the year. The best way to be keep updated is to follow via our social media and website at binfaqeeh.com

What is your vision for Bin Faqeeh Real Estate Investment Company for the future? Our vision is to keep providing the market with projects that satisfy demand, to maintain our position as market leaders and increase our market share. We are also committed to promoting Bahrain as a country. binfaqeeh.com

Italy, Puglia

NEW COLLECTION 2016.

Today, enjoy the company with Long Beach, the new 2016 model designed and handcrafted in Italy. Sit down and experience the superior quality of materials: leather, textiles, metals and precious woods interacting with each other in total harmony. Visit our stores to discover all the models of the new collection. Free Interior Design service available only into Natuzzi Italia stores. PHOENICIA DECOR - Seef District - Tel: 17 564 444

natuzzi.com

Luxury Lifestyle 042

Special Feature

Set to become one of the Kingdom’s must-visit destinations, Marassi Galleria is a leisure and shopping experience that goes beyond traditional retail. Situated on a prime waterfront location, the development is set to be animated with outdoor events, high street activities, and destination dining, as well as featuring one of the region’s most elaborate family entertainment centres.

AE-based real estate investment and development company Eagle Hills, in partnership with local developer Diyar Al Muharraq, has revealed its flagship urban centre Marassi Galleria, a unique residential, hospitality and lifestyle shopping and entertainment destination. Anchored on the beachfront within walking distance from a two-kilometre stretch of white sandy beach, the Galleria is located within Marassi Al Bahrain, and will offer a comprehensive mix of high street fashion, designer brands and boutiques, as well as provide an extensive range of entertainment and dining options with views overlooking the sea and lush green gardens. The development will attract some the world’s leading stores, many for the first time in Bahrain. Spread over an area of 178,000sqm, with a leasable area of approximately 120,000sqm, the shopping precinct will host five interconnected lifestyle urban districts, each with a theme tailored to a specific customer demographic: the Highstreet, the Family Plaza, a Waterfront Dining Promenade, an animated rooftop and The Luxury Courtyard. Centrally located, the Highstreet will offer a genuine retail experience, integrating F&B concepts with street performance and other urban activities. The upper floor

01 Marassi Galleria 02 The master-plan at dusk

will be anchored by a multiscreen cinema and a variety of other entertainment offerings. The Family Plaza will feature a kid’s park, with numerous activity and play zones for children to safely explore while their parents watch from nearby cafés. These new ‘Edutainment’ and ‘Sportainment’ concepts will promote education and sports in a fun and interactive manner. A Waterfront Dining Promenade, stretching between The Address Marassi Al Bahrain hotel and Vida Marassi Al Bahrain hotel, will feature destination restaurants and cafés, as well as a picturesque walkway along the beach. Marassi Galleria’s rooftop will host an activation area for outdoor events, where visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of the beach and city nearby. The Luxury Courtyard will provide a high-end shopping and dining experience complete with exclusive facilities such as dedicated valet parking, a drop-off zone, direct access to The Address Marassi Al Bahrain hotel and more. Marassi Galleria’s world-class hospitality offerings include the adjoining The Address Marassi Al Bahrain hotel, which will feature 110 rooms, including 17 suites. Directly linked to the shopping complex, Vida Marassi Al Bahrain hotel will have 160 rooms.

Dr. Maher Al Shaer, CEO of Diyar Al Muharraq and Managing Director Eagle Hills Diyar said, “Marassi Galleria fulfils an overwhelming demand for more hospitality, leisure and premium shopping options in Bahrain. The shopping complex’s unique design will be a first for the region, as the infrastructure spills onto the beach and connects to its neighbouring facilities through direct access to the hotels, walkways, cycle paths, and elevated bridges to promote an outdoor lifestyle.” Low Ping, CEO, Eagle Hills, added, “A central hub of the master development for residents and visitors, Marassi Galleria will become one of the Kingdom’s primary tourism and leisure destinations. Being part of this diverse lifestyle destination will be a tremendously attractive prospect to potential Marassi Al Bahrain home owners and to Diyar Al Muharraq residents as a whole.” Marassi Galleria is part of the first phase of the master planned development, which also includes a two kilometre-long sandy beachfront, waterfront promenades, a community mosque, and all related infrastructure. Upon completion, Marassi Al Bahrain will include a total of 260,000sqm of retail space. www.marassialbahrain.com

044

Watches

Eternal Art

President of the LVMH Group – Watches Division, Jean-Claude Biver is known as the man responsible for the revival and rebirth of the Hublot brand, as well as his impressive background working for some of the biggest names in Swiss watchmaking. Biver describes a high quality mechanical timepiece as ‘a piece of eternity in a box’, and states one of the keys to success is being First, Different and Unique. As Hublot celebrates 10 years since their highly successful ‘First, Different, and Unique’ All Black timepiece, Biver speaks to Durrah about Hublot and his journey so far.

ean-Claude Biver is one of those rare men who have genuinely left their mark on Swiss watchmaking. Born in Luxembourg on September 20th 1949, his family moved to Switzerland when he was ten years old. After completing school and obtaining his HEC (University of Lausanne Business School) diploma, he settled in Le Brassus. His time spent in the Joux Valley, the cradle of fine watchmaking, had a decisive impact on his life. He took up residence next to a farm, which in later years became the headquarters of Blancpain. He seized the unique opportunity of a year’s “all-rounder” training offered to him by Audemars Piguet in 1975, after which he concentrated on sales and marketing. During that year, he was immersed in all aspects of the business, which enabled him to acquire a deep knowledge of the watchmaking art and develop his passion. In 1980, he left Audemars Piguet to join Omega as gold products manager. In this position, he learnt the rules and constraints inherent in working for a big international brand. In 1982, feeling nostalgic for the watchmaking

culture of the Joux Valley, he and his friend Jacques Piguet bought the Blancpain name, which had been dormant since 1961. He quickly revived the company increasing the turnover to 50 million Swiss francs, and within a few years, the brand was competing with the biggest names in watchmaking. However, in 1992 he decided to sell Blancpain to the SMH Group (later to become the Swatch Group) and joined Nicolas G. Hayek’s management team. As a member of the Swatch Group’s Management Committee, he was given the task of developing the marketing and products for the Omega brand, a company he had left ten years earlier. At the end of 2003, he decided to take a year’s sabbatical but, ever the man of action, he quickly changed his mind in order to take over the leadership of a small business founded in 1980: Hublot Geneva. In 2004, as CEO he decided to focus on Hublot’s original product and develop a new concept for the brand: “The Art of Fusion”. In fact, in 1980, Hublot was the first watchmaker to create a watch that fused different

046

Watches

materials, by combining gold and rubber. By dedicating all of his expertise and marketing talent to the brand, in April 2005 - within a year - he had achieved the tour de force of launching a revolutionary chronograph: the Big Bang. Unveiled at BaselWorld 2005, it was an immediate success. The awards came thick and fast. Hublot was injected with an extraordinary dynamism, guaranteeing exceptional growth. Jean-Claude Biver was truly responsible for the rebirth of this brand, and perhaps even for its birth, if we consider today, in 2012, the path it has travelled in just seven years. The company owes its impressive growth to the boundless energy of its unique owner: firstly, the company’s economic growth, with turnover increasing in 4 years from 25 million to more than 200 million Swiss francs in 2008, when the brand was sold to LVMH. Under the leadership of Jean-Claude Biver, a total area of 14,000m2 has been dedicated to the watchmaker’s art, and to the development, creation and production of movements such as the UNICO, a column-wheel chronograph, and grand watch complications including tourbillons, minute repeaters cathedral, the Antikythera movement, the Key of Time movement, and the MP- 05 LaFerrari which is the World Record for the autonomy of a watch with 50 Days of power reserve. Keen to keep Hublot at the forefront of research into the latest high-tech materials and to preserve its cutting-edge expertise,

Jean-Claude Biver installed a foundry to produce Magic Gold, a scratch-resistant 18-carat gold launched in association with the EPFL (Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne) at the end of 2011. In 2008, Hublot became the “Official Timekeeper” of the EURO Championship. In 2010, the brand became the historic first “Official Watch” and “Official Timekeeper” for FIFA and the World CupTM just after having been chosen as the “Official Watch” and “Official Timekeeper” of Ferrari. These two masterstrokes offer Hublot exceptional visibility on a global scale. Jean-Claude Biver and Hublot have also created an exclusive club of friends and ambassadors who go beyond sport, all real living legends in their field, with whom the brand works hand in hand on several charity projects. Supporting the brand’s Middle Eastern present is friend of the brand and Lebanese singer Ragheb Alama, whose passion for watches and the luxury industry align with Hublot’s values. Alama was present at the 2015 celebration of the Hublot Big Bang Collection’s 10th anniversary. The event aligned with the opening of the 10th Hublot boutique in the Middle East; located at the prestigious Dubai Mall. With Jean-Claude Biver still at the helm, Hublot is also the first luxury brand to have launched an online television service (Hublot TV) and to continually explore new revolutionary interactive showcases.

Hublot is ever at the forefront of research into the latest hi-tech materials and guardian of traditional expertise. It acts as a bridge between a past that bears the traces of the most talented watchmakers and a future nourished on visionary artistic concepts – testing with mastery all the realms of the possible. With Hublot, there are no limits to innovation. It is the company’s reason for being. At the 2016 Geneva Days the brand presented a range of their latest models, impressing and exciting the masses. The two new limited-series Big Bang 41 MM Broderie Sugar Skull and Big Bang 41 MM Broderie showcase the run-away creativity that is the essence of Swiss manufacturer with the inimitable character and technological excellence that have made Big Bang the ultimate symbol of fusion. On the occasion of its 3rd EURO participation, Hublot introduces the Official Watch of UEFA EURO 2016™, which will take place in France from 10 June to 10 July 2016. Designed with the football world in mind, the Big Bang Unico Retrograde Chronograph wears the colours of France, the organising country of the 15th edition of the EURO. The Hublot Classic Fusion collection is on-trend in timeless grey. Following on from its Spring/Summer 2015 blue collection, the Classic Fusion quintet now boasts a total “Racing Grey” look. Less harsh than

black, more timeless even than blue, this grey – inherently neutral and universal – reinforces the model’s versatile elegance. Finally, a timepiece that is eye-catching and surprising, the MP-05 “LaFerrari” Sapphire is teamed with a transparent silicon strap, with a clasp, which also features components carved from sapphire. In keeping with the ultra-futuristic look of this timepiece, the watch is wound by a mechanism using a miniature power drill, modelled on the tyre-changing tool used in Formula 1®. Anchored in the present and always evolving, at the forefront of new advances in technology and fundamental research into new materials, Hublot remains committed to traditional expertise, creating timepieces which bear the mark of the most talented master watchmakers. In this way, the brand represents the Art of Fusion between watchmaking culture and cutting-edge technical developments, between the past and the future. In the words of Hublot’s Chairman Jean- Claude Biver, “We are not breaking with the past, on the contrary we are paying homage to it by connecting it to the future”. Mr Biver was appointed President of the LVMH Group - Watches Division in January 2014, and overviews TAG Heuer, Hublot and Zenith.

01 Portrait of Jean-Claude Biver 02 Big Bang All Black 44 mm 03 Bigger Bang All Black 44 mm 04 Aero Bang All Black 44 mm

05 King Power Foudroyante All Black 48 mm 06 King Power Unico All Black 48 mm 07 Classic Fusion Chrono All Black 45 mm

08 Classic Fusion All Black 33 mm 09 Classic Fusion Tourbillon Skeleton All Black 45mm 10 Big Bang Unico All Black 45 mm

www.hublot.com

048

Watches 11 Portrait of Jean-Claude Biver 12 Spirit Of Big Bang All Black

Interview with Jean-Claude Biver You have a history of taking businesses and transforming them into the very best they can be. What are the key things that distinguish an average brand from a luxury brand? I have first to admit that for all the brands I have worked with, I always had more or less the same people, the same team with me. No doubt that working for so long with the same passionate people has been an immense asset. We have always tried not to reinvent the brand; on the contrary, we tried to reconnect the brand to its past and tradition. But connecting the brand to its past doesn’t mean copying the past. Quite the opposite, we have always believed that 1. Without tradition there is no future. 2. Without innovation, no future. Whatever we have done, we have always tried to be First, Different and Unique. It’s difficult not to succeed if you are First, Different and Unique. That’s even how each person wants to be and wants to be treated.

What do you think people look for when they purchase a luxury item? People look for the emotion, the dream, the exclusivity, the beauty and the status symbol. All these emotions must be in your product and brand.

You have been referred to as a “marketing genius”. What do you think is the most important thing to consider when it comes to marketing a brand or product? The most important in marketing is the PRODUCT.

The product must embody all the values and messages of the brand and must be attractive. It’s not easy to have all these values, in addition to the beauty and aesthetic appeal of the product. But once you have it, you just have to promote, communicate and be patient. Success will come!

How much does your love of the product – i.e. Swiss watches – influence your work? I am in love with my work. My job is my passion. With love nothing is impossible. I believe that my passion and the passion of my people for our work is the most important factor of our success.

Do you have a personal favourite when it comes to luxury watch models? I especially love the very strong, powerful and super light watches. I love high tech materials and love to wear them on my wrist. I also love All Black and tourbillon watches.

After being in the business so many years, what are some of the key market changes you have noticed? New materials, new colours and new weight have been very influential and have changed a lot of perceptions from the past (in the past we wanted gold or platinum and heavy weight). Nowadays people are looking for colours (green, blue, black, grey etc.), new materials (carbon, magnesium, ceramic etc.) and ultra-light weight (the lighter the more expensive and the better).

This year marks the 10th anniversary of the first ‘All Black’ watch concept by Hublot. What do you think made people so attracted to this model when it was first introduced, and why do you think it has remained so popular? The All Black watch from Hublot was 10 years ago: FIRST, DIFFERENT AND UNIQUE. That was the main reason of its success. Of course it helped that the watch was just beautiful and so appealing. One can consider that the All Black was the Godfather of the trend of black watches.

How does the market in the Middle East compare to the rest of the world? I love the Middle East; I love its people, its colours, its smell, its food and its deserts. The Middle East has a very strong taste for beauty, for exclusivity, for gold, for diamonds and of course for art. The Middle East is a very sophisticated region with a lot of appreciation for luxury and exclusivity.

How do luxury timepieces manage to stay exciting when they use the same technology that they have been for so long? Because art is eternal. A high quality mechanical watch is a piece of ‘eternity in a box’.’.

What advice can you offer for the next generation? Connect to eternity, which means connect to art, connect to love and connect to God; that’s my advice to the next generation.

RX STATEMENT MAKE A

AMAZING IN MOTION

Introducing the completely redesigned 2016 Lexus RX with dynamic styling and refined features that blend advanced technology and design with quality synonymous with Lexus. The all-new 2016 Lexus RX makes a powerful statement at first glance and fuses a powerful presence of progressive luxury. Now at our showroom in Sitra. Lexus Showroom - Sitra 17 737 773 www.lexus.com.bh

/LexusBahrain

050

Special Feature

The Shaik’s Kingdom of Creativity The noble Shaik of the desert inhabits a world where adventure and anonymity still exist, where love and opulence combine. The mystery continues to flourish in each of our minds… Who is the man behind these conspicuous designs?

he Shaik is not just one man, he is many: a romantic visionary, a passionate designer, a compelling creator, a world-class businessman and entrepreneur. These timeless qualities form an emotional and intellectual bridge between East and West. Mystical Arabia lives on in everyone’s imagination, a colourful, mysterious place of perfumes, of arabesques woven in sumptuous silks, of magic and delight. We blend the best of both worlds, we pour fragrant oil onto the occasionally troubled waters of our times. The Shaik is the very personification of our aims and ethos. Designer Shaik promotes quality and luxury in every aspect of its business and is committed to creating products with true passion and inspiration. Our strengths lie in our product portfolio and theme across all four Palaces, drawing on the Shaik’s passion and desert heritage. Since its inception the Designer Shaik design concept has become synonymous with the four Palaces of the Shaik: Palace of Nature, Palace of Horology, Palace of Fashion, Palace of Jewels and each Palace developing and creating luxury products to a globally acclaimed high standard.

A luminary and a philosopher, The Shaik will always turn his dreams into reality

01 The Shaik showcasing his latest timepiece. 02 Unveiling of the highly anticipated Designer Shaik flagship store.

052

Special Feature

03 04 03-04 Mechanical Monument of Time, part of a unique sightseeing experience over King Faisal highway revitalising Downtown Manama

Conceptualisation of a bridge linking key areas of the future Manama City

Designer Shaik’s futuristic marketing concepts are set to become a world class platform on which to escalate the Designer Shaik concept to greater heights, laying the foundations and setting the benchmark for futuristic cutting edge media advertising on a global basis. Creating symbolic monuments which will be recognised for generations to come, the eponymous brand of Designer Shaik continues his journey through time and evolution. Innovative marketing strategies include: · Construction of prominent monumental clock towers on roundabouts, facing major airports and attractions throughout the Gulf region instantly recognised and forever associated with Designer Shaik. · Development of a unique mechanical Monument of Time display to be situated in first class hotels around the world. · Conceptualisation of an outstanding bridge that

05 Miniature Mechanical Monument of Time marketing the product in major retail outlets and hotels. 06 Blending the old souq with the new Financial Harbour, Moda Mall and Bahrain Bay

links key areas of Manama city. · Unveiling of the highly anticipated DS flagship store. These creative marketing concepts are a natural progression for Designer Shaik subsequent to the launch of the Astro Duo Timepiece collection in 2015. Although the retail concept is still in development, success of the Astro Duo Mk 1 Timepieces proved overwhelming. Whilst only maintaining a selling point directly from Designer Shaik Headquarters in Bahrain, the timepieces received an unparalleled amount of worldwide recognition. The Limited Edition colours were sold out and are no longer available. The upcoming launch of our automatic version “Astro Time” collection will no doubt follow suit. Designer Shaik reflects the true brand of Arabia encapsulating the colour, culture and heritage of the region. The mystique, style and timelessness is the first of its kind to be presented on the world stage.

054

Special Feature

Historic Dilmun inspires a precision instrument of today Many enlightened scholars and historians agree that the Garden of Eden was probably located in what is today known as Designer Shaikâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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. He feels a great kinship with his forebears, especially the aristocratic artists and craftsmen who were, five millennia ago, producing works of art with unparalleled skill, imagination and excellence. 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. The universe ticks through the cycle of a day with clockwork regularity. The Astrolabe of Moments in Time measures this with extreme accuracy, bringing you the gift of promptness, timekeeping and reliability; qualities that are indispensable to success. This stunning instrument communicates with you in a silent sign language as the three hands orbit within the circle of the watch face throughout the cycle of the day.

07-12 SGold Astro Time Auto.GLD01.M1

056

Watches

Since 2010, Sascha Moeri has successfully held the position of Chief Executive Officer of Carl F. Bucherer, globally positioning the Swiss watch manufacturer as a strong luxury brand. As CEO of Carl F. Bucherer, Moeri combines many years of experience in the watch industry with innovative and progressive approaches on a daily basis. Recently Durrah spoke with the man himself to hear more about his exciting work and future plans for the luxury brand.

Unique Expression If you could describe Carl F. Bucherer in three words, what would they be? Lucerne, independent manufacture, free spirited brand since 1888.

What do you think are some of the key defining moments for the brand over the past 125 years? Let’s take it from the top: The corner stone was most definitely the opening of the first store by the founder, Carl Friedrich Bucherer, in Lucerne in 1888. It’s where our exceptional story began. From there, things just came together. His sons became a jeweller and a watchmaker and together they created a ladies’ watches collection in delicate art-deco style – back in a time when watches were still very much a male dominated field. Many extraordinary watch models followed. And then, of course, there is our very own, in-house calibre A1000 that we introduced to the world in 2008. It represents the culmination of all our efforts, our generations of expertise, superb craftsmanship and state-of-the-art

technology. We were the very first brand to develop the calibre with a peripheral rotor ready for series production. And we didn’t stop there. At Baselworld 2016, we are releasing a new calibre family, the CFB A2000. The movement draws energy through automatic self-winding when it turns either way, with a peripheral arrangement of the oscillating weight. To ensure the best accuracy, our watchmakers employ a completely free pulsating spring. Its effective length is not affected in any way. The rate of the watch is solely adjusted by pivotable Masselottes. These are small weights that sit atop of the four legs of the balance wheel and are able to regulate its inertia. The inertia swings with 4 hertz or 28.800 half-oscillations per hour, which provides for great accuracy. Due to a high torque, the CFB A2000 is all but predestined as a motor for various additional functions that are currently being designed.

There’s no easy or short way to describe the meaning of true luxury, it’s a combination of many different things. An excellent team that is capable of top-notch craftsmanship as well as a new state of the art manufacture which we are currently building in Lengnau – this is a big part of creating genuine luxury items. Add that to the first-class materials we use, our cutting-edge technology and one-of-a-kind style and you’ve got yourself an outstanding timepiece. But let’s not forget that luxury is also a feeling. A sense of uniqueness, the possibility for individual expression of self – those are also aspects that should be taken into account when it comes to luxury timepieces. It’s what sets us apart from others in the field.

How important is family history and tradition to the Carl F. Bucherer brand?

What qualities do you think make jewellery or a timepiece exclusive or luxurious?

It is indeed an important part of the brand’s DNA. Without our heritage, our roots, we would not be where we are today. Today still, Jörg G. Bucherer is a constant source of inspiration for our team and our

work. Imagine the knowledge that was passed on from his grandfather to his father as well as uncle and then on to him. When you look at our watches, you can feel the three generations of expertise, passion and pioneering spirit. As much as we strive for innovation, we really appreciate our origins – being it the family history or our hometown, Lucerne, a vibrant city with a unique spirit. A spirit that is reflected also in the intricate designs of our watches such as the PATRAVI TravelTec Black, a Basel 2016 novelty.

Your company philosophy says ’bound to tradition, driven by innovation’. How do you strike the balance between modernity and heritage? There’s a famous saying: You have to know where you come from to know where you are going. Our deep roots in Switzerland, especially in Lucerne, give us the freedom we need to take the brand where it needs to go today. Our watches still incorporate elements and features that have been a part of Carl

F. Bucherer designs from the very beginning. At the same time, we are constantly striving for innovation, always pushing for progress. But we would never sacrifice one for the other. It’s what makes our watches so unique – in addition to being stunning works of art they also have a strong history, their own story to tell. It’s a spirited story of passion for watchmaking, modern technology, entrepreneurial ingenuity and all things luxury.

What are some of the biggest changes in the luxury industry that you have noticed over the years, and how have you adapted to this? One of the most notable developments in recent years has been smartwatches. As intriguing as they are, I’ve never viewed them as serious contenders – they are so different from mechanical watches. Carl F. Bucherers mechanical timepieces don’t follow any trend – they are true luxury. They are the result of expert craftsmanship as well as decades of experience

058

Watches

that will bring pleasure to the wearers for their entire lives and beyond. Social Media has changed the media landscape and strongly influenced the way brands communicate with the world. As a future-oriented company, we adapted early on and have since been using Facebook, Twitter and other social media channels to present our brand, our timepieces and our news to watch enthusiasts all over the world. Last year, we even kicked off a social media campaign, #MyCFBLook. From 250 beautiful entries with highlighting various models from the PATHOS collection, one lucky blogger from the UK spent an amazing weekend in Paris. This year, we will follow our success with another great campaign – watch out for #BringMeToBaselworld.

majestic ALACRIA RoyalRose, the sportive PATRAVI TravelTec FourX in red gold and the extraordinary MANERO Tourbillon. Even though they all have a very distinctive look, they have one crucial thing in common: They combine tradition, craftsmanship, innovation and incredible aesthetics. A more recent example is the unique piece we created for the Only Watch auction in 2015. We made a single MANERO ChronoPerpetual in white gold. It was a fine day when we were chosen to participate in this prestigious charity. We couldn’t be more pleased with the outcome of the auction. The timepiece went away for an auction price of 46.000 CHF, exceeding our expectations. We’re proud of our contribution to the Monaco Association Against Muscular Dystrophy (AMM).

There are some impressive special edition watches in the Carl F. Bucherer collection – can you tell us a bit more about these models and what makes them so unique?

Do you notice a difference in taste amongst different markets around the world, and how do you manage to appeal to all of them?

Let’s take a quick stroll down memory lane, back to 2013. Such a memorable year! It was the year we celebrated Carl F. Bucherer’s 125th anniversary. In honour of that special occasion, we created several outstanding timepieces, with overwhelming reception. At Baselworld that year, we proudly presented limited editions of the classic MANERO MoonPhase, the

Our timepieces aren’t designed with a specific market in mind. On the inside, there is exquisite quality and state-of-the-art technology; on the outside, there is unique, striking design. Different personalities may be drawn to different models of our collections, but quintessentially our customers are unified in their need for individual expression of self and their appreciation for true craftsmanship, not their geographic origins.

01 Patravi TravelTec Black 02 Sascha Moeri, CEO Carl F. Bucherer 03 Carl F. Bucherer Boutique at The Dubai Mall

That being said, we have indeed noticed some preferences. Customers in the US, Russia and the Middle East like a lot the bold design that marks the PATRAVI TravelTec, whereas Asian customers have a tendency towards the sleeker lines of, for example, a MANERO Tourbillon or a MANERO AutoDate.

What exciting developments can we expect from the brand in 2016? After the great success of our first in-house calibre CFB A1000, we are proud to present a new calibre family this year. The CFB A2000 will stun everyone. It has our signature peripheral rotor and re-energises through automatic self-winding. The movement is incorporated in our new model, the MANERO Peripheral. The MANERO collection is further complemented by a chronograph model, the MANERO Flyback. We’ve also designed an addition to the PATRAVI ScubaTec family – a beautiful white model with a 36mm diameter. Our GMT-Chronograph PATRAVI TravelTec comes in a new bold black case. Its brother, the PATRAVI TravelTec II is now available in full rose gold. And then there is the PATHOS Swan, the timepiece we are adding to our successful ladies line. Brilliants and sapphires are beautifully arranged atop the dial, forming the elegant curve of a swan – symbol of our home Lucerne. 2016 is going to be yet another exciting year for us, so stay tuned!

RACING IN STYLE. WORLD SPONSOR AND OFFICIAL TIMEKEEPER SINCE 1988.

MILLE MIGLIA GTS POWER CONTROL (168566-3001). CHOPARD MOVEMENT, CALIBRE 01.08-C

MILLE MIG LIA

060

Watches

Contemporary Classics Updating the look of a classic timepiece is no easy feat, however it is a challenge that has been accepted by these renowned luxury watchmakers. Durrah presents the latest watches for men, which maintain timeless appeal while exuding a fresh and contemporary feel.

L.U.C XP Urushi ‘Year of the Monkey’, Chopard This year Chopard has dedicated a new exclusive series of its L.U.C XP to the Chinese zodiac and Year of the Monkey. Handcrafted in Japan in small series by a master Urushi lacquer artist, the timepiece depicts a popular scene believed to bring good luck and drawn from Chinese iconography: a monkey gathering peaches. Fitted with a black alligator leather strap, the L.U.C XP Urushi ‘Year of the Monkey’ comes in a special presentation box also decorated using Urushi techniques. Black on the outside and gold Maki-e inside, it is shaped like an octagon, an oriental symbol of happiness. This Far Eastern nobility meets Swiss nobility in the form of Chopard Haute Horlogerie. Its slender shape and dainty bezel magnificently highlight the creations of the Japanese Urushi artists, while inside it beats with an L.U.C Calibre 96.17-L, an ultra-thin movement measuring just 3.30 mm thick. www.chopard.com

Big Pilot’s Heritage Watch 55, IWC With a case diameter of 55 millimetres, the Big Pilot’s Heritage Watch 55 follows on directly from IWC’s previous record breaking largest model; the Big Pilot’s Watch of 1940. This enormous eye-catcher, available in a limited edition of just 100 watches, is aimed primarily at collectors and lovers of authentic pilot’s watches. But it is not only the watch’s size so much as its unmistakable visual features that will make the hearts of watch connoisseurs race. From the dial design and colour of the luminescent numerals to the shape of the propeller-like hands, cone-shaped crown, and historic leather straps, it is as if the Heritage watches are a tribute to the pioneering days of aviation – but now with updated state-of-the-art IWC watch technology. The watch is suited to everyday use thanks primarily to its light titanium, which reduces its weight to 120 grams. Meanwhile, the IWC hand-wound 59215 calibre gives an impressive 192hour power reserve. www.iwc.com/en/collection/pilots/IW510401

TAG Heuer Connected, TAG Heuer TAG Heuer has unveiled the first fruits of a collaboration with brand sports ambassadors Tom Brady, Jeremy Lin and Giancarlo Stanton that is as exclusive as it is ground-breaking. The 3 TAG Heuer Brand Ambassadors and stars of the world of sports, designed a watch face that is not only personalised and exclusive, but also contains cues to their individual sports universe. At 46 mm in diameter, the design of the TAG Heuer Connected is primarily that of a true chronograph, with a case and lugs made from grade 2 titanium, a contemporary material ensuring the watch is lighter and more resistant to impacts than a traditional material such as steel or gold. Completed by a textured black rubber strap (six other colours – red, blue, white, orange, green and yellow are also available) and with a deploying buckle made of grade 2 titanium, it has all the elegance, characteristics and level of finish expected from a fine wristwatch. www.tagheuerconnected.com

062

Watches

MP-05 ‘LaFerrari’ Sapphire, Hublot While the original design of the MP-05 ‘LaFerrari’ was created to show off the beauty of its movement, its alter ego – with its case carved out of sapphire – is a movement that appears to be literally suspended in mid-air. The 3D construction of the sapphire case middle is composed of 7 components machined from 7 blocks of sapphire, involving over 600 hours work. Carving the case’s ultra-complex architecture presented a further challenge, and the result of 18 months’ development weighs a 53.5 grams case on the wrist. Revealing its hypnotic nature, the movement features 637 components and a suspended vertical tourbillon. The bridge of the movement bears the word “Hublot”, which the engineers carved into this transparent material, the hardest after diamond. In its vertical position, the small second is displayed via a transparent cylinder, as are the hours and minutes, which are positioned to the right of the barrels. www.hublot.com/genevadays2016/mp-05-la-ferrarisapphire

Ulysse Anchor Tourbillon, Ulysse Nardin Flowing forward on a crest of innovation, the latest Ulysse Anchor Tourbillon brings with it a cascade of sapphire hues. Inspired by the depths of the sea, Ulysse Nardin delights with the timepiece’s genuine translucent blue enamel dial. An evolution of the award-winning Ulysse Anchor Tourbillon that premiered in 2015, this limited edition in rose and white gold showcases artistic tradition and inventive modernity coming together in sharp yet beautiful contrast. A rare and classic art form, enamelling is a hallmark of Ulysse Nardin. Handcrafted in-house at Donzé Cadrans, a member of the Ulysse Nardin group of companies, the enamelling technique is specialised and intricate, mastered only by a few. Cavities, or cells, are formed in a thick metal surface then filled with moist, powdered, blue enamel and fired until it melts. After cooling, it is sanded by hand by the master enameller to expose its authentic azure radiance. www.ulysse-nardin.com

H2 Tradition, HYT HYT’s Hydromechanical Horologists have turned fantasy into reality, mixing mechanics and liquid within a wristwatch. While addicted to nonconformism, these alchemists have drawn upon the strictest codes of fine watchmaking, and shattered them. Classic or retro? As its name suggests, the H2 Tradition is a meeting of the two. It is the first HYT with classic guilloché finishes, delicate lacquered dials, and blued hands. However, the H2 Tradition retains its hydro-mechanical aesthetic, thanks to the capillary with the blue fluid moving forwards as the hours pass. It is driven by two bellows positioned either side of 6 o’clock, developed in 2013 on the very first H2. The traditional side is expressed by the diamond guilloché main plate, the ogival shaped crown, and it’s blued hands: HYT wanted it to be classical and easy to read, with the most subtle of aesthetics. www.hytwatches.com/collection-h2/watch/h2tradition

Patravi TravelTec, Carl F. Bucherer Three time zones combined in one watch made in an exquisite and distinctive material: the Patravi TravelTec by Carl F. Bucherer has been crafted in deep matt black. The robust DLC coating transforms the GMT chronograph into a grand statement on the wrist, designed not to blend in, but to impress. Comfortable functionality, excellent readability, and technological sophistication make the Patravi TravelTec the ideal model for frequent travellers. The Swiss watchmaker completely immersed the model in imposing black, emphasising the diamondlike carbon finish on the stainless steel case and wristband, which is particularly scratch-resistant and highly shock absorbent. The compelling deep matt black colour of this timepiece is created by the unique blend of carbon material. The striking design is rounded off with a black dial offering a clear display of contrasting light-coloured totalizators, indices, and scales. www.carl-f-bucherer.com/en/watches/patravi

064

Watches

Chic Appeal Exquisite jewels and countless detail are fashioned to create these latest luxurious timepieces for women. Stylish as well as highly functional, with world-class operating movements and intricate design, these watches are made to stand out from the rest.

Golden Bridge Dragon and Phoenix, Corum Giving free rein to its formidable creative audacity, Corum orchestrates an encounter between two of the most fascinating figures from Chinese mythology: the dragon, a mythical creature symbolising life and power; and the phoenix, legendary bird, symbol of good omen. Gathered around the famous hand-wound CO 113 movement, the duo embraces the â&#x20AC;&#x153;baguetteâ&#x20AC;? movement in an exciting body-to-body. A worthy descendant of the first ever model introduced by Corum in 1980, this mechanical masterpiece embodies both the impressive expertise of the brand from La Chaux-de-Fonds and its insatiable quest for linearity. The remarkably precise Caliber CO 113 beats at the frequency of 4 Hz (28,800 vibrations/hour) and is equipped with a variableinertia balance ensuring impressive long-term regularity. Visually stunning in each and every detail, it features a red gold main plate and bridges, including an upper bridge bearing the hand-engraved Corum signature. www.corum.ch/en

Panthères et Colibri, Cartier At Cartier the panther is omnipresent, whether in physical form or in spirit. Figurative or abstract, it injects its femininity into the creations on which it confers its refined silhouette. On the dial of the Panthères et Colibri watch, a panther lies resting with a hummingbird depicted alongside. The spectacle is truly charming, until the winding-crown is pressed and a baby panther escapes its mother’s paws to chase the golden-winged bird! The mechanism thus activated is in fact that of the power reserve. In this new calibre 9915 MC movement, the time until the watch needs rewinding is indicated by the breadth of the bird’s flight. The aesthetic is exquisite: the black diamond-studded background of the dial features a filigree of wild plants and the fully gem-set bezel adds a contrasting halo of light. The profile of the feline stands out by its volume, with its diamond-set coat and black lacquer spots. www.cartier.com

Faubourg Lapis Lazuli, Onyx or Malachite, Hermès Lapis lazuli, onyx or malachite: the Faubourg watch adorns its dial in semi-precious stones playing on a blue colour palette, a deep black hue or variations on the theme of green. Expertly shaped by the artisan’s nimble fingers, the stones reveal various subtle and unique nuances. They are framed by a precious 15.5 mm-diameter case in white gold, rose gold, or rose gold set with 48 diamonds for the lapis lazuli version; in white gold or rose gold gem- set versions for the onyx model; or in non-set rose gold to accentuate the subtle shades of the malachite dial. Well before the stones become dials, the artisan selects them with infinite care while keeping only the most beautiful. He then cuts out the material to the desired diameter and gets an initial idea of the volume before finetuning the result and then setting the final touch with a handcrafted polishing operation. en.watches-news.com/hermes/hermes-faubourglapis-lazuli-onyx-et-malachite

066

Watches

RM 07-02 Pink Lady Sapphire, Richard Mille Crafted from sections of pink sapphire taken from a single block, the case of the RM 07-02 is extremely difficult to create. The case requires almost forty days of machining and finishing to meet the uncompromising specifications laid out by Richard Mille. Numerous tests then follow to verify that the brand’s resistance and comfort requirements have been met. Beneath its pink exterior, this original and ergonomic tripartite case reveals a unique automatic movement beating at its heart. The new in-house CRMA5 calibre is assembled around a skeletonised plate in micro-blasted 5N gold set with diamonds. The same 5N gold is used for the flange and the bridges, whose hand-chamfered and hand-drawn angles and edges capture even more light at the heart of the calibre. The central dial in onyx and diamonds, the crown in 5N red gold and the strap in white alligator skin add the perfect finishing touches to this exceptional creation. www.richardmille.com/watch/rm-07-02

L’Heure du Diamant, Chopard In collaboration with partner Al Fardan Jewellery, Chopard has created new breath-taking High Jewellery watches with exceptional coloured dials for its L’Heure du Diamant Collection. Embodying a perfect blend of purity, radiance and mystery, diamonds – the quintessence of ultimate luxury – sublimate the charms of any woman who adorns herself with them. Fascinated by their extraordinary aura, Caroline Scheufele, Chopard Co-President and Artistic Director, has consistently honoured them in her creations. With L’Heure du Diamant, Chopard combines the respective strengths of its two fields of expertise to compose a dazzling collection born of a unique synergy between the thirty or so artistic crafts exercised within its workshops. These new exclusive watches highlight exquisite and unique dials with an array of majestic and royal colours comprising of blue, green, burgundy and purple. From draughtsmen to watchmakers, jewellers, gemsetters and polishers, the various artisans pool their talents to give life to the boldest dreams. www.chopard.com/high-jewellery/l-heure-dudiamant

Eiffel Tower Lady, Saint Honoré Unveiled last spring in a men’s version to mark the 130th anniversary of watchmaker Saint Honoré, the Tour Eiffel watch is now available in a smaller size, for women. Once again, the bezel has been hewn from a metal part of the famous Parisian monument, making this mechanical watch a unique collector’s piece. It gives women the opportunity to wear a symbol of France and Gustave Eiffel’s technological genius on their wrists. Powered by an automatic calibre, the watch’s pale brown colour and characteristic lattice structure serve as motifs on various parts such as the dial and crown, the oscillating weight in the movement, and the strap clasp. Elegant and different, this limited edition of 500 pieces pairs a sparkling polished steel case with an immaculate white leather strap, or a warm rose gold case on a brown leather strap, and was born to appeal to devotees of fine mechanisms. en.sainthonore.com/en

Lovivi, De Grisogono Bearing the name of Fawaz Gruosi’s youngest daughter VIioletta, affectionately known as Vivi, the Lovivi watch embodies a play on words filled with tenderness and combining Love and Vivi. An exceptional jewellery watch, which evokes the strength and timelessness of the curves of the symbol of infinity, Lovivi is the perfect representation of the unbreakable link between a father and his daughter. Featuring materials as original as fossilised mammoth ivory, black jet and amber, as well as a mineral considered to be the most sacred of all, turquoise: this original cuff watch has it all. This wrist-worn treasure hints at a unique, assertive personality, and at whole-hearted, intense emotions, making it a vivid symbol of life and love. The piece has a softly mesmerising shape that is exceptionally comfortable on the wrist, and worn as a bracelet rather than simply a watch. degrisogono.com/collection/lovivi

From Vision

To Reality

070

Masterpiece

Designs for the Soul

Piero Fornasetti was an Italian painter, sculptor, interior decorator and engraver who lived most of life in Milan and has created more than 11,000 items, many featuring the face of a woman, operatic soprano Lina Cavalieri, as a motif. His unique and striking style is reminiscent of Greek and Roman architecture, by which he was heavily influenced. Today his son, Barnaba Fornasetti, continues to design in his father’s name, and spoke to Durrah about continuing on his father’s legacy.

What is it that makes designs from Fornasetti so unique? It’s timeless and it’s not related to fashion trends or design in the strict sense of the term, since it’s about graphic images covering quite simple surfaces. Because of this, the Fornasetti aesthetic is able to awaken images of the collective unconscious that have always been stocked in our brains. A Fornasetti item is never a simple passive object: it can talk to those who have not lost their ability to see. Philippe Starck, in the book “Fornasetti – Conversation with Philippe Starck” by Brigitte Fitoussi, Assouline, said something interesting about the teapot ‘Tema e Variazioni’: “Every object by Fornasetti, for example the teapot with eyes, which I have in my kitchen (and that I love), is an open door through which one is immediately sucked, like in Alice in Wonderland. And for me that’s something you can’t put a price on. Even after twenty years on the shelf, the teapot is a door that still opens. The magic still works. A Fornasetti object has the power to change

the vibrations in a place, not because it’s a handsome decorative object – it’s nothing to do with that. You can be in a very handsome room, very well decorated, with a really beautiful design, for all that it is still a room grounded in real life. But put a Fornasetti in it and it takes on a very different dimension, the dimension of dream.”

Why do you think Fornasetti has such a strong and loyal customer base that continues to grow – even more so in recent years? Actually, I don’t think that our brand has grown up so fast. It could have achieved more in terms of numbers but I believe in “slow design” and I prefer growing in quality rather than quantity. Fornasetti is responding to the public call for something to sooth the pains of modern living; people need more and more decoration because it has the same function of the music: it might not seem strictly necessary but it I think it is; it is food for my soul.

072

Masterpiece 01 Portrait of Barnaba Fornasetti 02 Teapot in black, white and gold featuring Lina Cavalieri 03 Inside the Fornasetti store 04 Unique artwork by Fornasetti

How do you strive to keep the creative vision of your father alive? My father made a creative and manufacturing model transmittable to a successor. I did an apprenticeship to learn these artisanal skills and secrets that in turn I’ve transmitted to my collaborators. I believe more in teamwork than in a solo identity. As for the creative side, it’s more difficult to evaluate it; I think I have a natural aptitude or, if you prefer, a talent, that simplified everything. I found it quite easy in fact to keep the creative vision of my father alive also because I had to work on creations that cannot be categorised in a specific style or period. You know, my father is considered by many to be a forerunner. Certainly the archive that he left to posterity is very helpful, and I often use themes taken from this very rich source and develop and adapt them into what I call “re-inventions”. I’m also working in collaboration with specialised companies entrusted to produce licensed products under the Fornasetti mark.

What do you remember of your father and his work? 05

03 03

He was definitely a bossy dad but his idea was to toughen me up so that I could fight and better resist conformism and mediocrity. As in the case of all geniuses he was not always easy. He had the vision of an artist from the Renaissance, born by chance in the early 1900s. An artist surely connected to ancient classics, but able to look at the future without the obsession of being contemporary. He taught me to always bear in mind

05 His style is reminiscent of Greek and Roman architecture 06 Carefully designed: artwork open and close 07 Reflective magical Fornasetti wall

the classical orders for proportion and balance, spaces and shapes. Fantasy and imagination are, in their substance, study and method.

What do you think inspired his imagination? The sources of inspiration are many and they came from the past, quite often from classic and neoclassic art, always respecting the aesthetic of beauty. He was a graphic lover and he started as a painter, sculptor, and illustrator, but also worked as a lithography printer and engraver. He even created some new printing techniques and printed for many artists that were his contemporaries. From the 30s to the 60s he printed etchings, art books and limited edition lithographs for more or less famous characters as De Chirico, Fontana, Campigli, Carrà, Sassu, Manzù, Sironi, Tamburi, Clerici, Eugène Berman and more. This collaboration filled him with inspiration that can be seen and perceived, especially in his painting works. His friend the artist Fabrizio Clerici described his studio as “crammed with extravagant collections, butterflies, drinking vessels of all types and sizes, armours and ancient shields, which make it seem like the laboratory of some abstruse personality invented by E. T. A. Hoffmann.” Indeed, vis-à-vis the volcanic and seemingly boundless nature of his work, reaching from paintings to drawings, to etchings and prints, ceramics, foulards, furniture, dividing screens, interior design, exhibitions (believe it or not, exhibitions were one of Piero’s favourite tasks), one spontaneously

thinks of some dark alchemic art, or of magic. The secret of his work, however, as he himself revealed (probably because he was certain no one would really catch the point), lies only in method: “It is said that I make my items using secret methods. I laugh up my sleeve…my only secret is the rigour with which I carry out my work, the serenity of choice.”

Are there areas of your father’s creative world that you are still discovering? Yes, it happens frequently. For example, I found some unknown thoughts of my father, such as this one: “I consider myself as the inventor of the tray because…no one knew anymore how to offer a glass, a message, a poetry. I was born in a family with awful good taste and this is the key to set my fantasy free”. I never actually discovered unknown objects, but found drawings or sketches with new ideas or unreleased colour variations.

How would you describe the character or identity of Fornasetti? Identity is an abstract concept and I don’t know how you would define it. Both my father and I create our décors by picking existing themes from ancient and modern iconography. We mix them and, thanks to a whimsical magic, we obtain the Fornasetti identity, which is so strong that you can recognise it for its image rather than its signature. It’s not easy to describe it; also because Pablo Neruda has already given the perfect description: “el mago de la magia preciosa y precisa” (the magician of the precious and precise magic).

In what ways does the Italian essence of the brand shine through? Fornasetti is a name better known for its strong identity rather than for the fame of its brand. It has some features that are very Italian, but at the same time is more famous abroad than in its own country. It’s very appreciated in the Anglo-Saxon world, but now it has aroused interest in other areas.

What direction do you see the company headed and do you think the designs will continue to develop? I think Fornasetti is the ambassador of decoration, in every possible way. I’d like to distance myself a little bit from the commercial product. Or, another thing that I still haven’t done but wish to do is collaborating with architects to go back to external decorations in architecture. I believe that my father was very lucky to have a son that continued his activity with total dedication and discreet success, but I believe that this kind of thing happens very rarely, especially when you reach the third generation. Also, I don’t have kids of my own. I am therefore trying to build up a team capable of reinventing and perpetrating the Fornasetti spirit through time. Which, by the way, is what my father was already planning on doing, regardless of having a son or not. I think that Fornasetti design will surely develop in some other fields: at the moment I’m working on the production and the scenography for the opera “Don Giovanni” that will be set up with a 30 ancient instrument orchestra by complying with the original

074

Masterpiece

score as it was performed for the first time by W.A. Mozart in Prague in 1787. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m cooperating with excellent experts such as Simone Toni (musical director), Davide Montagna (stage director) and Romeo Gigli (costumes). In 2015 I collaborated with the musician and composer Cesare Picco at his Blind Date project: an original musical trip based on a simple but magical alternation of light and darkness. I was really proud to work on this particular show because of its charity purpose: we dedicated everything to CBM, an international development organisation committed to improving the quality of life of people with disabilities in the poorest communities of the world.

Is a Fornasetti Hotel an idea on its way to reality? I would like it to be so. A hotel is a public and private space at the same time and it is also an excellent way to let people enjoy Fornasetti images.

What is the future of Fornasetti in the Middle East? I like the idea of bringing beautiful objects to a country that will appreciate them even more, being a culture that is used to marvel and spirituality. Moreover, Middle East culture has not been â&#x20AC;&#x153;infectedâ&#x20AC;? by minimalism and this leaves more space to decoration. www.fornasetti.com/collection

I found it quite easy in fact to keep the creative vision of my father alive also because I had to work on creations that cannot be categorised in a specific style or period

DAY CREAM

Skin that will make your day The cream that makes every day an anti-ageing day. Start each day with the uplifting fragrance, comforting texture and radiant sheen of SENSAI CELLULAR PERFORMANCE DAY CREAM. It protects your skin from external aggressions and tackles the five major skincare ageing concerns*, so you can end each day with skin thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s even silkier than before. *dryness, sagging, fine lines, wrinkles and dullness

Skin enriched with the moisture of Silk

www.sensai-cosmetics.com

CELLULAR PERFORMANCE

076

Perfume

Evoking depth and mystery with a contemporary twist, these carefully curated fragrances speak to the man who has the urge to break free from everyday life. Unique and magnetic, each scent is made from beautiful ingredients of the highest quality, and emanate an intensely firm, powerfully masculine presence.

Magnetic Aromas Davidoff Agar Blend Davidoff Agar Blend was designed for connoisseurs who fully appreciate the importance and rarity of true distinction. In the top notes of the fragrance, sophisticated cinnamon leaves create a slightly spicy prelude with light clove undertones to which black pepper adds a drier, fresher and more vibrant dimension. This striking overture is followed by agarwood, also known as Oud, the most expensive wood in the world. Davidoff Agar Blendâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s flacon exudes a timeless and deeply masculine elegance. A distinctive groove runs along the side of the heavy glass bottle whose translucent shadows allude to the dark colour of the agarwood resin. The name of the fragrance appears on a golden metallic sheet while Davidoffâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s double D icon is branded on top of the solid black and gold cap. www.zinodavidoff.com/fragrances

Opus X, Amouage Amouage’s tenth volume in the Library Collection, Opus X, is inspired by the internationally acclaimed film The Red Violin, which tells the story of a perfect red-coloured violin that travels from owner to owner over four centuries and five countries, inspiring passion and depicting the fate of each of its many possessors. Amouage’s Creative Director, Christopher Chong, masterfully composed the fragrance using different facets of the Rose to represent the enduring and bewitching soul of the mysterious violin. Opus X’s bottle is a deep burgundy shade that fades into amber. The tome-shaped box is an amber and gold mosaic, with two artistic interpretations of the violin in deep red. Exploring the juxtaposition between radiance and darkness, innocence and seduction, Opus X leaves a beguiling trail for discovery. www.amouage.com/fragrance/library-collection.html

212 VIP Men Wild Party, Carolina Herrera 212 VIP Men Wild Party is the signature of the masculine VIP tribe, and combines strong yet attractive ingredients. The fragrance was made for the man who is extroverted, irresistible and full of fun, born to enjoy the magic of the night. The 212 VIP Men Wild Party is a never endless silage of the vibrant woods and the sensuality of the black pepper is twisted with aromatic violet leaves to create a surreal wild chic attraction. Initial notes of fresh citrus caviar lime and spirituous iced apple are followed by gourmand spicy woody tones creating an eclectic sensuality through the boldness of the most sought after scents. The 100ml translucent black bottle comes in a bold and extravagant silver outer pack that invites you to take a walk on the wild side. www.carolinaherrera.com/212/en/vip/fragrance/men

078

Perfume

Armaf Niche Black Onyx, Sterling Perfumes Sterling Perfumes, a luxury brand creating mellifluous fragrances that weave magic on the skin, presents its Armaf Niche collection that caters to the niche senses of consumers with essences that capture the decadence of luxury. Three fragrances have been launched in this collection that embody strong personalities through subtle scents in the form of Eau De Parfums. Fearless, a jewel of the night –the Black Onyx is a powerful, spellbinding perfume that enraptures all and stops the heart of every passer-by. An opening fragrance with hints of cardamom and cinnamon that flows into a heart of sweet rose and sensual Oud resting over a base of patchouli, smoky musk and amber. www.sterlingparfums.com/en/section/fragrances

Widian, AJ Arabia AJ Arabia, the regions first luxury perfume house based in Abu Dhabi, introduced its new brand name and logo, Widian. The fragrance house specialises in blending oriental scents of Arabia with flowery and fruity aromas from around the world. The logo of Widian by AJ Arabia is inspired by the golden sands of the desert and the name, meaning valleys in the Arabic language, was chosen in reference to the desert valleys of Liwa and the green valleys of Al Ain. These are important landmarks that are considered to be the heart of the nation, thus inspiring the evolution of AJ Arabia to Widian. The packaging is inspired by the architecture of the Abu Dhabi’s Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, detailing the meticulous attributes of the Grand Mosque’s arches and domes; adding to the luxury of the fragrance. www.ajarabia.com/en

Davidoff Horizon Capturing the freedom of adventure, the strength of exploration, the overcoming of possibilities; Davidoff Horizon is a timeless and unique signature created by master perfumers Olivier Pescheux and Jacques Huclier with nobility, richness and depth. Balancing the duality between earth and sky, the fragrance starts off with airy top notes of energising Grapefruit, Rosemary and Ginger that give a vibrant dimension of ascension and discovery. In contrast the middle and base bring strong, down-to-earth Vetiver and Patchouli softly wrapped in rich Cocoa Absolut to inject texture, warmth and sensuality. Sturdy, masculine, sober and elegant, the bottle takes its inspiration from shapes in nature, stones eroded and polished by the sands of time. Strong and direct, it is beautifully balanced by serene curves in clear glass to reveal the warm amber colour of the fragrance. www.zinodavidoff.com/fragrances/for-him/horizon

ck2, Calvin Kline ck2 is a dual-faceted scent that balances the urban with the natural and fresh. The fragrance opens with an unexpected spice of wasabi flavour deepened by an underlying note of magnetic, creamy warmth. The strikingly fresh top note, evocative of the electricity of contact, is complemented by floral accords that pulse through the heart with rich sensuality, while wet cobblestones bring a mineral splash to generate electric freshness. The dry down of jasmine is enhanced by the scent of vetiver, and blends with the creamy fieriness of sandalwood and sensual musks, blending together to envelop the electricity of magnetic warmth. Complex while cool and natural, two fragrance worlds merge together to create an exuberant, intimate and contrasted connection. www.calvinklein.com/shop/en/ck/fragrances

080

Perfume

Euphoria Men Intense, Calvin Kline Internationally acquired designer, Calvin Klein, marked the launch of the iconic Euphoria fragrance family exactly 10 years ago. Euphoria Men Intense is a rich, darker version of the Euphoria Men signature scent; an oriental woody fragrance that explores unconventional notes such as basil mint and sage. Its top notes include ginger and pepper, heart notes basil mint, sage, cedar wood, vetiver and base note of amber, labdanum, natural gum, oud and patchouli. Euphoria Men Intense has been one of the top choices for men around the world and has become a true classic to the house of Calvin Klein. The bottles are modernised with refined bronze glass and subtly extravagant packaging, featuring a beam of light cutting across the centre. www.calvinklein.com/shop/en/ck/44016170

Eternity Now for Men, Calvin Kline Eternity Now for Men by Calvin Klein is an exploration of freshness with undeniable masculine appeal. The fragrance opens with unexpected spicy ginger, refreshing coconut water, and star anise, while the heart comes to life with addictive notes of crisp star fruit, cedar leaf, and the fresh intensity of patchouli. The drydown is a warm sensual embrace of Moroccan cedar wood, tonka bean, and Madagascar vanilla that awakens the senses and captures the infinite abundance of woods. The complementary clear glass bottle has an added dimension with a heavier base creating a more luxurious feel. The grey colour infuses the design with warmth and energy, while the outer carton, inspired by clean architectural lines, is a colour-blocked design on matte white. www.calvinklein.com/shop/en/ck/44016700

Inimitably luxurious and infinitely seductive, these new scents for women attract attention and leave a trail of mystery and light. Each scent makes a statement with bold styling, luxurious craftsmanship and a revolutionary fragrance design.

Elegantly Charming Marc Jacobs Decadence Marc Jacobs Decadence is an invitation to indulge and is inspired by one of Marcâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s iconic handbags. Decadence elevates the irreverent spirit of Marc Jacobs fragrances to a new level of luxury. Developed with master perfumer Annie Buzantian, Decadence is a luxuriously woody scent. The fragrance captivates with a sultry top of succulent Italian plum, golden saffron and velvety iris. The heart is a bouquet of rich Bulgarian rose that mingles with lush orris and creamy nuances of jasmin Sambac. Stimulating liquid amber, heady vetiver and warm papyrus woods dry down to a signature of sophisticated indulgence. The ultimate statement maker, Decadence is designed as a clever nod to Marc Jacobs fashion aesthetic, with a decadently feminine bottle inspired by Marcâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s classic handbag shape. www.marcjacobs.com/beauty/fragrance

082

Special Feature

Chloé Love Story Fresher and more floral, Chloé Love Story Eau de Toilette is a new love story imagined by Anne Flipo (IFF) and inspired by actress Clémence Poésy. The scent aims to capture the freshness of dawn at the first light of day. The fragrance opens on fresh and floral orange blossom, and mingles with a scent of dew. A burst of nasturtium, delicately peppery, delights, while Prunus flower reveals its intense green facet. Utterly refined, the scent is heightened by a dewy floral accord, marked with carefree joy. The elegant matte white case of Chloé Love Story is embossed with gold letters, and circled with a delicate pink ribbon that holds the finest present: a love story, refreshing and sincere. www.chloe.com/en/content/love-story

212 VIP Wild Party, Carolina Herrera The 212 VIP Wild Party for her is fresh, fruity and floral, a golden cocktail of exotic ingredients. Designed for the woman who is urban, charming, impulsive and expressive, the fragrance has vibrant top notes of grapefruit and pineapple followed by an intoxicating explosion of flowers with orange blossom and orchid. With woody musk undertones 212 VIP Wild Party is the new signature for the feminine VIP tribe. The solid glass bottle is engraved with a vibrant palm tree print for freshness and novelty with a strong metal cap to maintain the link with the original VIPs. The chic bottle is also dressed in an opulent gold pack that is both striking and untamed, designed for the wildest party animal. www.carolinaherrera.com

Eternity Now, Calvin Kline Eternity Now Calvin Klein captures the thrill and raw emotion of new love, when two people realise that it is the beginning of forever. The fragrance continues the brandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s heritage of florals by opening with a bold burst of freshness as the juicy nectarine, succulent lychee, and quince sorbet envelopes skin with light fruity nuances that radiate a distinctive youthful energy. The heart blooms with a floral bouquet of peony, peach blossoms, and dewy neroli petals, leading to a drydown of a soft cashmere veil and traces of ambrox and precious musk. The complementary clear glass bottle has added dimension with a heavier base creating a more luxurious feel, and comes in a romantic and feminine shade of pink. explore.calvinklein.com/en_US/explore

Guess Double Dare Inspired by the playfulness of the Guess Dare fashionista, Guess introduces Guess Double Dare; a beautiful juxtaposition of sensuality combined with a modern and provocative femininity. A first impression of sparkling tangelo mingles with juicy wild strawberries and sweet aromas of exotic lychee to create a tantalizing scent. The heart features a narcotic layer of jasmine blended with bright green notes of muguet and violet leaf. The ultimate culmination of the fragrance is revealed with base notes of sheer amber, creamy vanilla and dry vetiver. Designed by Lance McGregor, the bottle maintains the legacy of the Dare pillar. The bottleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s neck is adorned with a gold chain featuring the Guess logo, while the iconic Guess triangle can be found in the shape of the cap. shop.guess.com/en/view/women/accessories/ perfume

084

Special Feature

Diamond Scent, Mouawad Mouawad, the renowned diamond house, has ventured into the world of perfumery with an exquisite new fragrance, Diamond Scent; created to be an incarnation of the scintillating beauty of a diamond. The regal composition opens on a subtle blend of floral notes with a heart of iris, violet, jasmine and rose petals. The base rests on vetiver and patchouli suggesting the merest trace of stringency, while oud wood, benjamin and musk reveal a bold, oriental feel. The bottle reflects the symbolism of Mouawad’s unmistakable logo, the ‘M’ in rounded profile reminiscent of a heart. The finely polished glass features sparkling crystals—in the special editions, a stopper faceted like a round-brilliant diamond and a neck chased in gold to enhance the perfume’s sublime amber hue. www.mouawad.com/creations/accessories/diamond-scent

Paradiso Azzurro, Roberto Cavalli Roberto Cavalli Paradiso Azzurro is a luminous celebration of the beauty of the Mediterranean coast. It blends soft and delicate notes of dewy flowers with a bright aromatic counterpoint, evoking the caressing sea breeze. Between charm and sensuousness, this evocative fragrance weaves a unique tale of charm. The bottle is a delicately facetted jewel whose translucent blue colour is reminiscent of the Mediterranean waters. The stopper’s deliciously decadent cabochon captures the light, creating glittering reflections, like sunlight on the water. It proudly displays Roberto Cavalli’s monogram, a token of quality and extravagance. The playful ornament is mirrored in the carton box’s snake-like appearance, and evokes the golden hue of dawn on the blue depths of the Mediterranean Sea. parfums.robertocavalli.com

Parfums de la Nuit, Roja Dove Master Perfumer, Roja Dove has created three alluring elixirs that weave their own magical spells, as night falls. The rich, oriental fragrances inspired by after-dark feature a plethora of luxurious ingredients that demand attention. No. 1 is provocative and rich, instantly announcing its presence and mesmerising any who fall into its path, it is the most alluring of perfumes. No. 2 is soft, warm and tantalising, revelling in the power of attraction. Finally, No. 3 is exotic, mysterious, and enticing, inviting you to experience the allure of the unknown. Each bottle is nestled on an extravagant bed of silk crĂŞpe-de-Chine, glowing seductively against the black lacquer casket, which houses each creation. rojaparfums.com/fragrance/parfum-de-la-nuit-1

Angel Schlesser Pour Elle The new Angel Schlesser fragrance is an eau de toilette that aims to define a fascinating, extraordinary woman who exudes inner beauty and who seduces with the grace of her presence. The seduction starts unexpectedly, thanks to the juicy citrus and floral chords of the top notes. Bergamot offers a citrus freshness that combines sweetness with gently bitter touches and red berries provide sparkling, spicy and soft floral notes. Simple and elegant, the packaging is a white square box embossed with vertical lines that give it texture. On the front, in the centre, a smooth rectangle with a gold border displays the brand, with the designerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s name in black lettering and the fragrance in golden lettering underneath, evoking a timeless classical world. www.angelschlesser.com

086

Special Feature

With the authentic appearance of a contemporary metallic sculpture, and a sound experience that must be felt to be believed, comes the latest innovation from Porsche Design. Like the ignition of a Porsche race car paired with distinctive iconic design, sculptural art meets sound and technology to create the 911 Soundbar.

ith the sonorous name Porsche Design “911 Soundbar,” the sports and luxury lifestyle brand has introduced a unique sound system for home entertainment that will make hearts race. The core of this innovative architecture consists of the powerful rear section and the striking tailpipes of the current Porsche 911 GT3, repurposed as a sub-woofer to guarantee a very special acoustic experience for aficionados of music and sports cars alike. Not only is the unmistakable sound of a 911 GT3 starting brought into ones own living room, but the Soundbar also creates an incredibly unique music experience. For the CEO of the Porsche Design Group, Dr Christian Kurtzke, the 911 Soundbar is indicating the way ahead for the evolution of the Porsche Design brand. “Our new exclusive timepiece collections and the 911 Soundbar represent unique new product creations that embody the core of our brand and innovations inspired by technology. Moreover, we recently launched a new luggage series to further strengthen our positioning in the segment of high quality travel accessories,” says Dr. Kurtzke. The previous approach in brand communication will give way to a new level of emotion. “Ultimately, the passion for technological innovations, for design expertise, and for supreme quality, constitutes a significant component to our brand DNA, and that should be felt in our communication as well,” explained Dr. Kurtzke. When it comes to modern technology, the Porsche Design 911 Soundbar is cutting edge: high quality 2.1 Virtual Surround System, 200-watt output, Dolby Digital

Decoder, DTS TruSuroundTM, Bluetooth® 3.0 wireless technology, two digital inputs, one analog output, and an LED display are just a few of the numerous product features promising brilliant sound quality at home. In this first generation, the vehicle components surface has intentionally been left unaltered, with components assembled in their original form and design. Visible welds and contact points underscore masculinity, craftsmanship, and authenticity. The hovering metallic object on top of the matte black base makes the 911 Soundbar a contemporary sculpture for any place. Similar to the Porsche 911 GT3, the rear section also plays an essential role in the 911 Soundbar, in generating the typical Porsche sound. Yet the highlight is that the function of the original parts is more or less inversed: contrary to a car, the rear section and tailpipes on the 911 Soundbar are used as resonators and rearward sound is channelled to activate the air in the rear section’s pipe system. The result is an extremely high level of efficacy in the corresponding frequencies. In light of the air volume, this translates into a sound threshold that is deeper, quantitatively louder, and higher – simply put, it has more power. The Porsche Design 911 Soundbar has high-end sports car components, cutting edge technologies, and pure design combined into one single sound experience. This unique sound system will be available in select Porsche Design Stores in March 2016. www.porsche-design.com/en/For-Men/SmartphonesSound/911-Soundbar.html

The Sound of Excellence

088

Masterpiece

With a vision to “enrich sensory and aesthetic taste and excel in it”, award winning Bahraini artist Ebrahim Mohamed Busaad transformed his grand father’s Muharraq house into the Busaad Art Gallery, using traditional and authentic Bahraini architecture. Used as a place to showcase the stunning work of Busaad and contribute to the rich cultural landscape of Bahrain, the artist speaks to Durrah more about the gallery and his work as an artist.

Enriching the senses

ahraini artist Ebrahim Mohamed Busaad was born in Muharraq in 1954. Early in his career, Busaad’s artistic knowledge flourished as a consequence of his surroundings; by way of the alleys, the people, the old quarters, the sea, the dhows, the palm trees and the birds of the old town where he was born. For Busaad the environment is an essential component of an artist’s disposition. His recent work is the embodiment of the outcome of a consistently anxious search for the new possibilities that reflect his desire to tackle controversial human issues occurring in today’s world. Busaad Art Gallery is a Bahraini established firm owned by the artist, whose mission is to “enhance and deepen the understanding and appreciation of art locally, regionally and globally and its role in the society, through

a lively engaging programs of cultural activities, charitable works and exhibitions”. The project started by renovating Busaad’s grandfather’s house, which was built in the 1930s and it is the exact place where the artist himself was born at in 1954. Bahraini traditional architecture was considered in order to represent the authenticity of the place and to have a touch of the Bahraini traditional culture. The gallery was officially opened to the public in the beginning of 2014. It is an art gallery dedicated to present and market Busaad’s art works and creations. Busaad Art Gallery is located in the city of culture Muharraq; known for its cultural activities and different creative artists, such as musicians, poets, and writers. www.busaad.com

090

Masterpiece 01 Busaad Art Gallery 02 Nursing evilness - Acrylic on canvas - 100cm x 100cm Sleeping Cats Exhibition 2016 03 Ebrahim Busaad 04 Initiation - Acrylic on canvas - 100cm x 100cm - Sleeping Cats Exhibition 2016 05 Drop of life - Oil on canvas size: 140cm x 120cm - End of the dot exhibition 2009 06 Music of yearning exhibition - oil on canvas size: 200cm x 150 cm

Interview with Ebrahim Mohamed Busaad How did you first develop an interest in art? My interest in art emerged during my childhood days, when I was around six years old. One day my mother was sewing some fabrics for our household and I suggested that I draw some botanical motifs on them. I still remember what the first motif I drew that day looked like; it was a ‘cashew’ pattern. From that moment, my journey with art began and it continued for around 45 years, accompanied by my wife UmSaad and my family, as I see my art within them.

Who or what have been your biggest inspirations? All artists are inspired by nature, its ingredients, and through conversing with it. Nature provides different horizons as well as innovates and enriches artworks.

Can you tell us about your training as an artist? My art experiments are numerous and diversified. It started with the academic “learning” stage, which required a lot of effort in order to explore the secrets of art on various technical and intellectual levels. Later on, I experimented with different techniques and textures to create what I desired to portray.

How would you describe the traditional culture of Bahrain and more specifically Muharraq – where Busaad art gallery is located?

Muharraq was the governing city in Bahrain. Many houses of previous rulers still stand tall on its grounds, such as the house of Shaikh Isa bin Ali, which was built in 1818, along with the house of the late Shaikh Salman bin Hamad. Furthermore, Muharraq embraced the first official school in Bahrain, AlHidaya AlKhalifiya, which was built in 1919. Over the past decades, Muharraq has been the source of culture, art, economy, and politics. It is a city that has cultural, social, and architectural characteristics that only a few other cities have. Busaad Art Gallery is located in the heart of Muharraq city, next to Shaikh Isa Bin Ali’s House and the historical Seyadi House.

What ambiance and “look” did you hope to achieve when renovating the Busaad art gallery, and what was the house like before it was transformed? The inception of the Gallery was derived from the ambition and enthusiasm of my beloved son, Hamad Busaad. He supervised the full execution of establishing the gallery and he is currently managing it along with my wife UmSaad and my daughter Wassan Busaad. I was looking for a place in Muharraq to establish the Gallery and UmSaad suggested the house in which I was born. It was located in Muharraq and belonged to my grandfather Mohammed bin Saad, then owned by his heirs. Therefore, when I offered to buy the house from my mother and the heirs, she replied: “Money can come and go yet if love goes, it will never come back.” She insisted on renouncing her part of the heir and so did my siblings in support of my project.

This house was built in the end of the 30s of the late century. It was renowned for its beautiful architectural characteristics and it constituted of 2 floors. In the beginning of the 80s it was demolished and reconstructed into a 3-storey building. In 2011, we commenced renovating the house in order to make it look architecturally similar to the old Muharraq houses, as it used to be. The Gallery is a permanent showcase for my work and it is a cultural project rather than a commercial one. The Gallery was officially inaugurated on the 14th of April 2014, under the patronage of H.E. Shaikha Mai bint Mohammed Al-Khalifa, President of Bahrain Authority for Culture & Antiquities.

How much does the Bahrain of today influence your work? The artistic influence of Bahrain is immense as its land is kind. Bahrain is a peaceful island plunged in serenity; its sea is beautiful and generous, its palm trees are giving and plentiful, and its waters are as sweet as honey. The vast majority of its people are kind-hearted, filled with love and their hands are benevolently open to giving to others. It is things like these that bring you into a tranquil space of grace and love. The majority of my paintings are expressions of hope and ambitions of the Bahraini person, who is a paradigm of coexistence, compassion and love.

What is the main message you try to communicate through your artworks?

Busaad Art Gallery is located in the city of culture Muharraq; known for its cultural activities and different creative artists, such as musicians, poets, and writers.

05 04

092

Masterpiece

07 Betrayed - Acrylic on canvas - 200cm x 100cm - Sleeping Cats Exhibition 2016 08 A lady in yellow dress Oil on canvas - 140cm x 120cm - Shadow of the pink Exhibition 2014

My mission is that beauty surpasses ugliness, the good outshines the evilness, forgiveness outdoes hatred, and that the world becomes a more peaceful, loving and forgiving place.

What are your favourite materials and colours to use and why? What do they represent to you and what do they express in your artwork? The colour and textures are related to the topic and each topic has different characteristics.

Where do you see the future of art headed in Bahrain, with things such as ArtBahrain now taking place? Bahrain owns a large reserve of heritage in fine arts. This legacy will become a valuable fund, thus, elevating the future of Fine Arts. ArtBahrain is a kind initiative from Her Royal Highness Princess, Shaikha Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa, Wife of His Majesty the King, and it is definitely an added value to the expedition of fine arts.

Do you have any upcoming collections we should look out for, and where is the best place to see your work?

My upcoming exhibition is â&#x20AC;&#x153;Sleeping Catsâ&#x20AC;?, which will be held on March 16, 2016 at 8 pm in Busaad Art Gallery. Most of my artworks are showcased at Busaad Art Gallery in Muharraq and to view all collections you can visit my website.

094

Special Event

Transform your future

It was a moment where the wildest dreams came true, as Mohamed Khalifa Ahmed Almulla – a retired father of four – was presented with a cheque for One Million USD. Almulla was revealed as the new Instant Millionaire of the Al Hayrat 2015 scheme, and is the third lucky winner of One Million USD from BBK’s Al Hayrat program, which increased the grand cash prize to this astounding figure three years ago. Now, BBK’s unique savings account Al Hayrat has launched its ‘Life changing’ 2016 scheme with 2,000,000 Air Miles on top of the unique and exciting chance to win millions while they save.

n a day like any other, Mohamed Khalifa Ahmed Almulla received a call from Mr. A. Karim Bucheery, the Chief Executive of BBK, to inform him that he had just won One Million USD. After opening an Al Hayrat savings account with BBK, Almulla is the latest customer to become an instant millionaire, an incredible and life changing moment. An elaborate handover ceremony attended by the Bank’s top management was held in Almulla’s honour at the Four Seasons Hotel, whereby he was picked up along with his family in a Hummer limousine and celebrated in style as he was handed the cheque for the one million dollars by Chief Executive Mr A. Karim Bucheery. Mr Al Mulla said, “I could not believe it at first! I honestly thought I was being pranked by one of my friends! What an unbelievable and totally unexpected surprise! I cannot express my happiness and gratitude to the Bank for this amazing opportunity. I would like to extend my thanks to the

01 Karim A. Bucheery presenting the cheque to Mohamed Khalifa Ahmed Almulla

We have designed the Al Hayrat savings account prize scheme so as to truly impact the lives of the winners in a positive, transformative way and help propel it forward to help them realise their dreams

02 BBK has been at the forefront of the industry for 45 years 03 Mr. Almulla and his family 04 Sign up for the Al Hayrat savings account today

BBK Branch manager who convinced me to place my savings into the Al Hayrat account. Otherwise, I would never have dreamed of winning.” When asked about his plans for the future, Mr Al Mulla said, “With this cash prize, I look forward to supporting my daughter’s fashion design business with this money; I will also use it to further develop my HR consultancy business which I have recently started after my retirement.” Speaking at the award ceremony, Mr A.Karim Bucheery stated, “We are delighted to give out the biggest single cash prize in Bahrain worth one million US for the third consecutive year. We have designed the Al Hayrat savings account prize scheme so as to truly impact the lives of the winners in a positive, transformative way and help propel it forward to help them realise their dreams. And on this happy occasion, I would like to congratulate the winner on this incredible win and wish the other Al Hayrat savers good luck in future Al Hayrat draws.”

A pioneer in retail and commercial banking, BBK has been at the forefront of the industry for 45 years, and built a name and reputation, which is respected locally as well as internationally. For four consecutive years, the company has been honoured for its Corporate Governance by the “Hawkamah” Institute; a prestigious, competitive and highly coveted bank award that highlights the industry’s strong commitment to good corporate governance. To the delight of its customers, BBK recently announced the launch of their savings account Al Hayrat’s 2016 campaign, under the theme of ‘Al Hayrat Changes Lives’. Al Hayrat’s unique savings account provides customers with abundant and one of a kind opportunities to win cash prizes while they save. Every BD50 in the Al Hayrat account gets the customer one chance in the draw; the higher the amount, the more chances of winning. Mr Mohammed Malik, Head of Retail Banking commented on the new launch by saying, “Since its inception in 2001, the Al Hayrat program has aimed to enrich the lives of its winners by awarding them with significant cash prizes that can help them achieve their dreams, This year, we are bumping up our four already substantial quarterly prizes by introducing 2,000,000 Air miles as an addition to the cash pay-out as a way to further distinguish Al Hayrat prizes from others in the market, and to provide our customers with an incredibly valuable winning experience that is truly life changing.” The largest four prizes of the year will be introduced to winners as follows; An additional 250,000 to the winners of the two quarter million dollars in April and October respectively, a mid year half million cash prize in July, and lastly, a whopping Instant Millionaire Grand prize winner at the end of the year. Customers who deposit into Al Hayrat by March 24th 2016 will be eligible to win the first massive prize of 2016 in April of $250,000 cash. BBK and non-BBK customers can open their Al Hayrat savings account starting from BD50 and withdraw their cash anytime at their convenience. To be eligible to win any of the life changing prizes, customers must deposit in an Al Hayrat account to any of the BBK branches for at least one month prior to each draw. In addition to the exciting and life changing cash rewards, a number of other amazing prizes await the future winners. www.bbkonline.com

Fashion

A designer to celebrities and royalty, Versace has consistently brought vitality and art to an industry considered out of touch with the street. This season Donatella Versace traded in the refined Palazzo Versace headquarters in the centre of Milan for a location on the edge of the city as the backdrop for her latest collection. A move designed to reinforce the primal power of her Spring/Summer 2016 line up that features a toughened up take on fashion. 01

Urban Jungle

orn in 1946 in Reggio di Calabria, Italy, Gianni Versace is known as one of the top international fashion designers since the 1980s and ‘90s. He launched his first clothing line in Milan, Italy, in 1978 and in 1989, debuted his first couture collection, which was met with global acclaim. Since then the designer has continued to add to his fashion empire, expanding into home furnishings and perfumes. The business was always a family affair, with his brother Santo and sister Donatella working for him. For Spring/Summer 2016, Donatella exemplifies the typical Versace glamorous style with her latest men’s and women’s collections for the label. The men’s collection is reminiscent of desert mood and tones, with the drape and distinction of Versace foulard scarves. Tailoring is stripped of construction yet

03 01 Versace Women’s SS16 Collection 02 Versace Men’s SS16 Collection 03 Versace Men’s SS16 Collection

maintains the iconic Versace strong-shouldered silhouette; the body is compact, the trousers full, and pinstripes disappear as if faded by the sun. Long shirts and long fine ribbed knits create a layered look throughout, while fine long-sleeve T’s ad an under-layer to cover skin and keep out the sun’s rays. Zip-up blousons are essential: in perforated leather, printed nylon, hooded in Greek Key tie silk or tracksuits with the Medusa at the chest. New hand-drawn prints take inspiration from Versace Home, such as a grid repeat print of Versace cushions, or a print of classic Versace chairs. Oversize pockets give the feel of desert utility to long spring coats, washed silk tailoring, city shorts and tailored pants. Tie-dye is like a desert haze camouflage on flowing headscarves, suits, and twinset long-length cardigans and sweaters. Seams left open and slashes appear in blousons, shirts and long

Fashion

Oversize pockets give the feel of desert utility to long spring coats, washed silk tailoring, city shorts and tailored pants

06 04 Multicolor Sunburn Backpack by Versace 05 Medusa Tri-Strap Platform Sandals by Versace 06 Earrings by Versace 07 Leather-Bow Zebra Handle Bag by Versace 08 Shoes by Versace 09 Versace Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s SS16 Collection 10 Versace Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s SS16 Collection

length knits, letting in air and reveal what is underneath. Sequin sweaters of desert foliage have been dipdyed, one remaining the original white at the shoulders. They’re perfect for evening, worn with roomy pants folded down like a new cummerbund. Silk-jersey headscarves and fez caps protect from the sun. Footwear includes woven leather sandals and updated brogues, while bags in raffia or coloured leather proudly display the golden Versace Medusa. “The Versace man is an adventurer in where he travels and what he wears. This is a collection for brave men who are pioneers in every part of their lives,” says Donatella Versace of the collection. For women, masculine tailoring is feminised by a darted, elegantly sculptured waist, while utility jackets are

the new daywear essential. Toughened luxury comes from a laminated boucle jacket with fringed edges of silk chiffon, or the raw edges of a pencil skirt with a thigh high split. Energised animal prints clash and contrast with the attitude of the street, with acid leopard and zebra prints often combined in the same look. Sportswear is everything, like the polo shirts and sweatshirts in animal print jacquard knit, or the zip-up blousons in acid leopard. Craftsmanship adds rich detail, like a suede zip-up jacket bonded and topstitched with animal prints, or a utility jacket richly embellished with sequins. Fil coupe animal print dresses are tied as if spontaneously at the shoulder and hip, while lace gives the effect of animal print against the skin. A new pinstripe 09 10

appears and fades as if it pulses, on a tailored jacket tied at the waist, or a slashed front dress that’s tied at the shoulder and edge. Flowing gowns of animal print silk chiffon are raw edged, and tied as they go down the body to the floor. The look is accentuated by platform heels with a rubberised sole are fastened with safety buckles, while platform sandals come embellished with sequins and frayed chiffon. Bags include sequin embellished backpacks and tie-handle bags from the Palazzo family. “This is a collection for the way women live their lives today, mixing tailoring with sportswear and effortless glamour,” Donatella comments. www.versace.com/en

100

Fashion

Inspired by Nature

teeped in the traditions of Italy’s master leather craftsmen and long celebrated for its extraordinary leather goods, Bottega Veneta has recently emerged as one of the world’s premier luxury brands. The company’s famous motto, “When your own initials are enough,” expresses a philosophy of individuality and confidence that now applies to a range of products including women’s and men’s ready-to-wear, fine jewellery, furniture, and more. While Bottega Veneta continues to grow, the qualities that define it are unchanging: outstanding craftsmanship, innovative design, contemporary functionality, and the highest quality materials. Also consistent is Bottega Veneta’s commitment to its ateliers, where artisans of remarkable skill combine traditional mastery with breathtaking innovation. Indeed, there is an unusual and inspired collaboration between artisan and designer at the heart of Bottega Veneta’s approach to luxury, symbolised by the house’s signature intrecciato woven leather. In the summer of 2006, in recognition of the importance of artisanal craftsmanship and the fragility of this traditional way of life, Bottega Veneta opened a school to train and support future generations of leather artisans. The most recent chapter in Bottega Veneta’s history

Discretion, quality, and craftsmanship — Bottega Veneta has created a new standard of luxury since its founding in Vicenza in 1966. For the brand’s Spring-Summer Women Collection 2016, Creative Director Tomas Maier was inspired by the outdoors; hiking, sailing and nature, creating pieces that are eclectic, free and highly individual.

began in February 2001, when the company was acquired by Kering, formerly known as Gucci Group. Creative Director Tomas Maier came on board in June of that year and presented his first collection, Spring-Summer 2002, to immediate critical acclaim. From the start, the house’s sensibility was refined, sensuous, and intensely personal, designed for a customer who is sophisticated and self-assured. In the years since, Bottega Veneta has introduced exciting additions to the collection, including fragrance, fine jewellery, a watch, furniture, and home accessories, while continuing to offer an exclusive and coveted assortment of ready-to-wear, handbags, shoes, small leather goods, eyewear, luggage, and gifts. Distribution of Bottega Veneta products is global, encompassing Europe, Australia, Asia, North and South America, where wholesale distribution in select specialty and department stores is complemented by a growing number of Bottega Veneta- owned boutiques. These boutiques are designed by Tomas Maier and meticulously constructed to Bottega Veneta’s exacting standards, allowing the customer to shop in complete luxury, privacy, and comfort. They are, like the products they showcase, a reflection of Bottega Veneta’s exceptional heritage and superlative quality.

The brand’s Women’s Spring-Summer collection 2016 is inspired by nature; bags feature leather or exotic skin rope trims, alongside bags with marquetry in exotic skins and a revisited slouchy style from the Bottega Veneta archive. Specific fabrics and techniques are eccentrically mixed, crossing between the technical and the romantic, and functionality provides decoration: hiking rope, clasps, drawstring pulls and grommets. Sterling silver jewellery looks aged, as if gold has worn off, with tourmalines and smoked quartz, often in a new S-link. Shoes are flat, like patent sailing slip-ons with a fine tyre tread, espadrille lace-ups and platform clogs, as well as trekking sandals, each one with its own unique webbing as if repaired on the road. Finally, new cats-eye sunglasses feature metal rope details, which are as if woven through and then extended out to become the stems. Of the collection, Maier says, “It’s about materials and what you can do with them. We create all our own materials, so we can push ahead and do something different. This is for the individual, the eccentric, the exceptional.” www.bottegaveneta.com

102

Fashion

urberry is a luxury brand with a distinctive British sensibility, strong international recognition and differentiating brand values that resonate with international recognition and broad appeal. Over 1000 guests attended the label’s latest Spring/ Summer show, including a multitude of friends and fans of the brand. The collection saw a mix of Burberry’s iconic classic coats paired with military inspired pieces, and a healthy dose of the British charm the brand is known for. Bringing together digital innovation, Burberry followers were able to see a preview of the collection shared live on Snapchat for the very first time. It also featured a neverbefore-seen glimpse into the brand’s design studios and live reactions on the red carpet as guests arrived. The Womenswear collection consisted of classic coats and functional pieces, which were mixed with elements of regalia including metallic cording, crested buttons and hand-embroidered military motifs. English lace and floor length satin dresses were paired with leather biker jackets, and regimental tailoring with tie-dye tulle.

The collection also introduced the Burberry Rucksack in gabardine-constructed nylon and the Belt Bag in black English suede. The latest Menswear collection from the label introduced authentic sartorial attire, mixed with unconventional elements. The clothing celebrated Burberry’s made-in-the-UK icons including heritage trench coats, made in Castleford, and cashmere scarves, made in Scotland. Burberry also introduced The Chelsea – a new tailored slim fit design and a new fourth fit for Burberry menswear. The Chelsea silhouette was presented on a new Made In England trench coat and across a range of tailoring including suits, shirts and ties. The shows took place in a custom-built show venue in London’s Kensington Gardens. Wild English flowerbeds filled with seasonal buds including foxgloves and hazel surrounded the show structure. uk.burberry.com

Established in 1856, Burberry is a global British luxury brand with a heritage of innovation, craftsmanship and design. The brand recently debuted their Spring/Summer 2016 Menswear and Womenswear collections at Kensington Gardens, and with its distinctly British appeal, the show impressed lovers of the label from across the globe.

British Charm

104

Special Feature

At 30 years of age, Yves Saint Laurent was nicknamed “the king of Paris”. He looked at the street, followed through on his beliefs, and through his creations spoke to women in a way no one else could. Just four years after opening his Maison de Couture, the launch of Saint Laurent Rive Gauche – a ready-towear boutique – rocked the world of fashion. Now, in homage to the 50th anniversary of Rive Gauche, Artistic Director Hedi Slimane releases his Fall 2016 collection, and the message of Yves Saint Laurent has never looked so contemporary and relevant.

Retro Glamour

n September 19, 1966, Yves Saint Laurent opened a ready-to-wear boutique in Paris called “Saint Laurent Rive Gauche.” This marked the first time a couturier successfully launched a readyto-wear line in France. Situated in a former antiques store in the student-dominated area of the Seine’s Left Bank, the store was a complete departure from the grand and gilded interior of his haute couture salon. Rive Gauche was an immediate success, with some customers waiting up to three hours simply to purchase items. Within a matter of weeks, it was clear this was the new sanctum of Paris youth culture. With Rive Gauche, Yves Saint Laurent made fundamentals rhyme with affordables, lines rhyme with colours, and sketches rhyme with industry. It was a breath of fresh air blowing through fashion. With hair worn long with electric pink satin shirts, Yves Saint Laurent found bright colours in flat tints that added brilliance to the new energy of their time. His was an art that optimistically integrated play, technique, colours and consumer objects. Rive Gauche was more a look than a fashion. “Between setting off for Kithira and setting off for the moon there is room for a time, our time, that nobody seems to care about,” were the words of a man whose name, according to Françoise Giroud,

Today’s Artistic Director of Yves Saint Laurent Hedi Slimane’s latest collection is both an anniversary and also a party

editor-in-chief at L’Express news magazine, went on to associate with “imperialism of youth”. Today’s Artistic Director of Yves Saint Laurent Hedi Slimane’s latest collection is both an anniversary and also a party. ‘Saint Laurent at the Palladium’ was presented during the week of the 58th Grammy Music Awards, a tribute also to the underground music scene of Los Angeles, which is a strong influence to Slimane’s work. Slimane revisited his Nineties androgynous glam era with the menswear drapey neck scarves, bow details and metallic boots. Women’s looks were adapted from the Rive Gauche archives of that era. Some of the most recognisable signatures — bow blouses, midi skirts and gilded brocades — comprised the dominan silhouette, along with culottes and caftans. Slimane even reused the iconic 1982 Musical Note print threaded in silver on one black velvet midi skirt. “Because fashion serves as punctuation for a day and age, a way of documenting the times: it is all about observing what is going on. It is all intuitive, I don’t want to dissect or decompose. Saint Laurent is first and foremost energy,” says Slimane. www.ysl.com

106

Special Feature

Fashionably French Gautier is a contemporary and designer French furniture manufacturer for businesses and individuals. Thanks to a family that is passionate about entrepreneurship and taking on challenges, as well as a tight knit and highly efficient team, Gautierâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s success has spread in France and across the world.

01 The brand’s French savoirfaire is an ambassador for French elegance 02 Gautier adds a stylish and contemporary look to any home 03 It symbolises a lifestyle and stands for the manufacturing of top-quality products

ounded in 1960, French designer furniture company Gautier is based in the Vendée, where the company manufactures its renowned stylish and contemporary furniture. It is headed by Dominique and David Soulard in their capacities as CEO and Managing Director, respectively, who ensure the company’s traditional expertise lives on. The pair are guardians of the values the company has been upholding since it was founded: humility, harmony and honesty. Since its inception, Gautier has stayed true to its roots and is a major economic player in a region that is proud of its manufacturing expertise and capacity for innovation. Customers and franchisees alike are attracted by the company’s unique, complete product range and support its concept and values. The brand’s French savoir-faire is an ambassador for French elegance. It symbolises a lifestyle and stands for the manufacturing of top-quality products. Boasting unique expertise, the Gautier brand stands out thanks to its in-house design team who steadily craft

02 03

the brand’s story day after day through their pioneering designs and original concepts. The team brings together 5 designers, each of which has his or her own unique vision, experience, and artistic inclination. They share a single aim: to reinvent the interior design and the living spaces of both today and tomorrow, so that every day spent in the home is a moment of pure joy Today, the Gautier network comprises of over 100 stores in France and abroad. Each store has a welcoming warm and friendly environment, where designing interior space is made easy and a source of immense pleasure. Gautier’s French savoir-faire is exported to 65 countries around the world and is an ambassador for French elegance. It symbolises a lifestyle and stands for the manufacturing of top-quality products. At a time when many businesses are shifting their production overseas, Gautier takes a step in the opposite direction by ensuring that its raw materials are sourced locally in France. Despite its international presence, the company also continues to manufacture in France and

prioritises local employment by employing over 950 individuals across its 3 manufacturing sites in the Vendée region. Over 8,000 furniture items leave the Gautier factories every day and are despatched to all four corners of the globe. In November 2012 Gautier was awarded PEFC certification, which promotes the traceability of wood and sustainable forestry management. This recognises the company’s long-standing commitment to the environment and to manufacturing in France. The company is committed to a global process for the protection of people and the environment, and has mastered the art of furniture making with French wood from sustainably managed forests within 300km of its factories. Honouring true French design, Gautier creates furniture with passion and creativity, making life even more beautiful than it already is. www.gautier.ca

110

Architecture 01 Alessandro Maffi and Mohammed Jaffar 02 Luxury comes alive inside the new store 03 Oozing comfort and exclusivity

Opening the doors to the world’s newest boutiques, Durrah presents the top locations to visit for a truly memorable shopping experience. Each brand has provided their distinguished clientele with the appropriate ambience to view and select from a range of stunning collections.

Van Cleef & Arpels has re-opened its boutique in Moda Mall, Bahrain with an enhanced interior, denoting a spellbinding timeless elegance. Opulent private lounges ooze comfort and exclusivity with welcoming sofas, decked with velvet cushions, creating an enriched experience. Friends of the Maison were warmly welcomed to discover the dreamlike décor, redolent of Van Cleef & Arpels’ enchanting creations. Inspired by private Salons, powdery hues in a sumptuous array of silk and velvet adorn the elegant surroundings, setting the scene for the renowned High Jewellery creations. The boutique’s lighting marks a cutting edge design concept unique to Van Cleef & Arpels. Directed spotlights are featured under glass domes that illuminate the pieces with beams of light, accentuating their vitality and radiance. Every season the Maison unveils new creations with a creativity that never ceases to delight and surprise. On the occasion of the reopening of the boutique, an exquisite exhibition was presented, giving pride of place to the heritage that is mirrored in many of the Van Cleef & Arpels’ timeless creations. “A worldwide reference for its virtuosity and excellence in craftsmanship, Van Cleef & Arpels has offered an array of timeless creations for over a century. Admirers of beauty are invited to the exhibition to delve into the Maison’s rich heritage and new realms,” said Alessandro Maf, Van Cleef & Arpels Managing Director Middle East and India. “The newly opened boutique invokes a contemporary charm, reflecting the same blend of enchantment that is characteristic of the Maison.” www.vancleefarpels.com/us/en/store-locator.html

Brilliant Boutiques

Van Cleef & Arpels, Manama

112

Architecture

Officine Panerai, Johannesburg Officine Panerai has opened its first mono-brand boutique in South Africa in Johannesburg, entrusting the design of the store to the designer-architect Patricia Urquiola. The new boutique is located in one of the best and most prestigious shopping malls in the city, the Sandton City Mall, and has an area of 36 square metres devoted entirely to sales, with two exterior windows facing onto the Mallâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s walkway. As in all the boutiques recently opened and renovated by Studio Urquiola, in the new Johannesburg boutique the celebrated Spanish designer has reinterpreted the aesthetic codes and techniques of the watch house, while respecting its identity and its timeless design. The materials used are in perfect accord with the philosophy and history of Officine Panerai, clearly referencing its Florentine origins and the world of the sea. The distinctive elements used by Patricia Urquiola are the â&#x20AC;&#x153;calacatta luccicosoâ&#x20AC;? veined marble of the

floor, the polished bronze and wood used to make the single-sided vitrines on the outside of the boutique and the internal niches, the retro-styled chandeliers above the two sales counters, and the counters themselves finished in brushed bronze, a clear reminder of the world of the sea. A fundamental icon of Panerai has been placed on the wall facing the entrance, a large wall clock, while the wall facing the sales counters is clad in corrugated glass panel enclosing two display windows. The boutique is very welcoming, sophisticated, contemporary, and elegant: as well as admiring the beautiful technology of Panerai watches, visitors can relax here in an intimate and luxurious atmosphere. Officine Panerai now has 66 boutiques worldwide. www.panerai.com/en/network/boutiques/ johannesburg.html

04 Modern and masculine interiors 05 Unique materials create a timeless look

The materials used are in perfect accord with the philosophy and history of Officine Panerai, clearly referencing its Florentine origins and the world of the sea

114

Architecture

06 Garments amongst perforated aluminium mural elements 07 The storeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s minimalist yet eyecatching faĂ§ade

Paco Rabanne, Paris In January 2016 Paco Rabanne opened its first boutique in 14 years, located 12 rue Cambon in the 1st arrondissement of Paris, and conceived by Artistic Director Julien Dossena and Belgian architects Kersten Geers & David Van Severen. The place is organised around two spaces: the ‘System’ in aluminium with two main rooms, and the entirely lacquered ‘space of transition’ is inspired by the non-ornamental architecture of Adolf Loos. The System features a wall that brings to mind the experimentations of M. Paco Rabanne; perforated aluminium mural elements contrast with floors featuring an intricate pattern of leather lozenges. The space created is intimate, while remaining accessible, oscillating between being totally opened yet closed. As wished by M. Paco Rabanne, it is resolutely modern without falling in the trap of futurism. The perfume of the boutique was developed by Dominique Ropion, whose intention was to create an echo of the creations of Julien Dossena with an audacious leather-metal signature scent. The new pacorabanne.com site will also be launched on January 20th, with the addition of a fashion e-commerce for Europe, a link with Barneys for North America and a partnership with Farfetch covering the rest of the world. A new visual identity was designed to reinterpret the historical logotype and to create a new monogram and bespoke typeface. Furthermore, Paco Rabanne is launching its first fashion campaign to announce this double opening, shot by the duo of photographers Scheltens & Abbenes. 07

www.pacorabanne.co

116

Architecture

The new store concept has been designed by artistic director Donatella Versace, to capture the new spirit of Versace Fine Jewellery

08 09

08 Inside the refreshed and revamped boutique 09 The sleek store façade 10 Innovation architecture in private shopping areas 11 Decorated with exclusive pieces from Versace Home

Versace, Dubai Versace Fine Jewellery is pleased to unveil the new concept of its first worldwide flagship boutique in The Dubai Mall. The refreshed and revamped boutique is located in the Grand Atrium, ground floor of the largest Mall in the world. The new store concept has been designed by artistic director Donatella Versace, to capture the new spirit of Versace Fine Jewellery. Everything is the ultimate in luxury and innovation, reflecting the craftsmanship and traditions of haute jewellery combined with the innovation of Versace today. The curved surface store is decorated with innovative architectural finishing and exclusive pieces from Versace Home. Jewels appear as if floating while Versace’s style permeates the space; VIP guests are invited to enter in the dedicated lounge to discover the most exclusive and limited edition jewellery sets. The 255 square meters store will offer the latest

collections of Versace Fine Jewellery, along with Versace’s classic lines such as Medusa, Barocco and Greca, each encapsulating the essence of Versace. The first flagship boutique of Versace Fine Jewellery was opened in 2009 in The Dubai Mall, introducing the Middle East to the ultimate in fashion and luxury through Versace’s Fine Jewellery and Watch collections. In February 2012, Versace partnered with Samra International DMCC – a leading jewellery company based in Dubai, and operating internationally. This collaboration brought about the opening of the first flagship boutique of Versace Fine Jewellery in The Dubai Mall. The partnership continues to grow with the opening of this exciting new boutique in the UAE. www.thedubaimall.com/en/shop/FashionGeneral/ versace.aspx

118

Travel

Uncovering Kyoto

The former capital of Japan and famous worldwide for its temples and shrines, Kyoto was the centre of politics and culture for 1,100 years. Today, Kyoto is a popular tourist destination and the cultural centre of Japan, continuing to be loved by Japanese and people of the world alike.

rom the end of the Nara Period (794), Kyoto has functioned as the crossroads of Japanese history. From its beginnings as the Kunikyo and Nagaokakyo settlements until the Emperor moved to Tokyo, it was the capital of Japan for over 1000 years. There remain many temples and shrines in Kyoto that were built during this long period. Seventeen historic sites including, Kiyomizu-dera Temple and Nijo Castle, are inscribed as World Cultural Heritage Sites. Today, the ancient capital of Kyoto, whose traditions have been matured through the ages, is now making startling advancements. Its rich culture and experience have produced many religious arts and forms of entertainment and countless religious Shinto rituals and festivals have captured the imagination of people the world over. Originally lost in the turmoil of war, they have been restored, and continue to be carefully maintained traditions. The three major festivals of Kyoto are the Aoi-

matsuri Festival in early summer, the Gion-matsuri Festival in mid-summer and the Jidai-matsuri Festival in fall. There is also the Gozan-no-Okuribi, more commonly known as Daimonji-yaki, held on the night of Urabon (August 16th). During this festival numerous torches are ignited on the five mountains surrounding Kyoto, with the flames laid out to form a letter or figure. It is a summer event known both at home and abroad. Nearly 3,000 temples and almost 2,000 shrines can be found in Kyoto, and because of this, the culinary traditions handed down through generations of the Emperorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Court can still be enjoyed today. Ryotei restaurants serving Kyoryori style of traditional cuisine known as kaiseki specialize in meals of the highest quality, and are places where Japanese gardens can be enjoyed whilst dining amidst an atmosphere of refined elegance. As in Europe and North America, a great many

120

Travel

fast-food restaurants can be found in Kyoto, but to try Japanese food, an izakaya or shokudo (diner) is the place to go for home-style cooking that the locals eat. The entertainment district presents another facet of Kyoto that is quite different from the typical historical image, as it is a blend of the old and present. Nishiki Ichiba (Nishiki Market) extends about 400 meters from Teramachi to Takakura. There is a saying in Kyoto: “There is no kind of food that you can’t find at Nishiki”, and indeed, the market is lined with shops selling fish, meat, dried goods, side dishes, yuba (dried bean curd skin) and Kyoto vegetables. This “kitchen of Kyoto,” as it is called, comes alive early in the morning. Shinkyogoku-dori street is a shopping district consisting of numerous gift shops extends from Sanjo-dori Street to Shijo-dori Street. It is famous as a Mecca among student travellers. Although it is a downtown district, there are numerous temples here, including Myoshin - ji Temple and Anyo - ji Temple for a feeling of the true Kyoto.

Another key attraction is The Kyoto Imperial Palace, which used to be the residence of Japan’s Imperial Family until 1868, when the emperor and capital were moved from Kyoto to Tokyo. It is located in the spacious Kyoto Imperial Park, an attractive park in the centre of the city that also encompasses the Sento Imperial Palace and a few other attractions. Besides the Imperial Palace and the Sento Palace grounds, a few other historic sites are located within Kyoto Imperial Park, including the Kaninnomiya Mansion, a former residence of court nobles that is open to the public in the park’s south-western corner. Not far away stands a small branch shrine of Miyajima’s famous Itsukushima Shrine on a small island of a pond. The 1300 meter long and 700 meter wide park also serves as recreational space for both tourists and residents, featuring attractive, broad gravel paths, lawns and tree groves. A pretty group of weeping cherry trees stands beside Konoe Pond in the park’s north-western corner and is usually in bloom for two

01 Kamigamo-jinja Shrine

Today, the ancient capital of Kyoto, whose traditions have been matured through the ages, is now making startling advancements

02 Sea of clouds 03 Maiko-san 2 04 Sagano (Bamboo Grove) 05 Tenryu-ji Temple 06 Kibune (Kawayuka)

122

Travel

05 06

to three weeks from late March to mid April. The Kyoto Station building was constructed on the 1200th anniversary of the capital’s foundation in Kyoto. It was opened to the public in 1997 and stands in perfect contrast to many foreign tourists’ image of Kyoto as the capital of traditional Japan. The building’s futuristic design and atmosphere was conceived by the Japanese architect Hara Hiroshi and is definitely worth a visit, as Hara’s design attempts to convey historical Kyoto through a modern aesthetic. The station’s large main hall with its exposed steel beamed roof, called the Matrix, is meant to reflect both the structure of the station and the grid like layout of Kyoto’s street network. Hara also designed the Umeda Sky Building in Osaka. Kyoto offers a wide range of accommodations, including domestic and international hotel chains, and it is also a great city to experience a traditional ryokan – a Japanese style inn that is found throughout the country, especially in hot spring resorts. The area surrounding the intersection of Shijo and Kawaramachi has the largest and most atmospheric

collection of shopping and dining options in the city. A wide range of popular hotels can be found in the area, mostly located along Shijo and Sanjo street and further north around the Kyoto City Hall. More than just a place to sleep, ryokan are an opportunity to experience the traditional Japanese lifestyle and hospitality, incorporating elements such as tatami floors, futon beds, Japanese style baths and local cuisine, making them popular with both Japanese and foreign tourists alike. There are many different kinds of ryokan, varying greatly in terms of size, cost and style. Some ryokan are small, family run establishments with just a few rooms, while others are large, hotel-like facilities with hundreds of rooms. Kyoto provides unlimited entertainment and meaningful experiences for all visitors, and the city’s beauty and culture have been refined by rich nature, history and the affection of its people. Kyoto is waiting to exceed even your highest expectations. kyoto.travel/en

124

Travel and Leisure

Recently recognised as the Best 5 Star Hotel in the GCC by the Food and Travel 2016 GCC Awards, Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay has exceeded all expectations of success since its opening early last year. With a number of extraordinary facilities, including three concept restaurants by celebrity Chef Wolfgang Puck, the hotel has certainly made itself known in the Kingdom already. Durrah speaks to General Manager Greg Pirkle to find out more about this exclusive new location and its exciting plans for the future.

Invigorating Bahrain

fter years of hard work and dedication on its development, the team at Four Seasons Bahrain Bay is extremely proud of the final product. This comes as no surprise, as the hotel has made a splash in the Kingdom receiving rave reviews from every guest that enters its doors. The hotel is situated on its own exclusive island in the middle of Bahrain Bay, an up-and-coming hub for business, leisure and tourism. The unique architecture and surrounding landscape make it a sight to behold, but just like anything else the aesthetic appeal is only the beginning. With 273 accommodations, including 57 suites, it is also home to the second largest spa in the Four Seasons portfolio. In terms of the interior specifications, the hotel excels in providing a wide variety of amenities to suit a multitude of different guests. For business travellers, there are four meeting rooms and two boardrooms on the 50th and 51st floors that show an unforgettable

view of the Manama skyline and the Arabian Gulf. Four Seasons also caters to families with a Kid’s Club and a family pool. Couples and honeymooners are not forgotten, as they have the option of an adult pool, a couple’s Spa experience and two ballrooms for wedding venues and other special events. All guests can choose between five swimming pools, 17 Spa treatment rooms and a fitness centre for their own health and wellbeing. There are seven food and drink outlets throughout the hotel; three of them run by celebrity chef Wolfgang Puck, including the acclaimed CUT and CUT Lounge, led by Executive Chef Ben Small; the new Moroccaninspired BLUE MOON LOUNGE; and the first ever re / ASIAN CUISINE with Executive Chef Brian Becher at the helm. And if that isn’t enough to whet the appetite, Hotel Executive Chef Stefano Andreoli presents four more original dining options, including the poolside Vento and the chic Azure lounge. Rising dramatically above lushly landscaped lawns, gardens and pools, Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay is a striking luxury destination. Taking its place triumphantly on its own man-made island against the glittering backdrop of Manama, the all-new hotel has well and truly emerged as a destination unto itself – and it can only get better. www.fourseasons.com/bahrain

126

Travel and Leisure

Interview with General Manager Greg Pirkle With a large number of luxury hotels in Bahrain, what sets the Four Seasons apart from the rest? Firstly it is of course our product itself that sets us apart, as we’re on our own private island in a very unique area. We’re in an iconic location on the edge of Manama just a few minutes from the financial and diplomatic district. Secondly, and I think what our real point of difference is, is our personalised and high-level service and the quality of that service. Many people have come to us after we opened to say what they experience at the Four Seasons Bahrain is so much different and further ahead than most other properties offer. The quality of staff we hire, the training program that we put them through, and the culture that we have all contribute to this. We believe in the golden rule of ‘treat others as you want to be treated’ – we actually do live by this, we treat everyone the same. Everyone has a reason for being there, and that’s what makes it work.

take into consideration that we will be here through the ages. Therefore we spent a lot of time designing this and putting in the finishes, everything is very high quality. That’s from a building standpoint, however our job is to come in and manage it, to meet their expectations. We ensure that number one we are giving incredible food – as a lot of hotels are rated by the quality of their food – as well as the service that comes with that. So you have to give great service as well as a great product.

How has the success of the hotel been for its first year of being open? We’re proud to say that we’ve actually exceeded expectations. We opened with a bang, right before Formula 1, so we hit the ground running. As soon as the Spring season came to an end we got to Ramadan, and we were very excited to open our first Ramadan Tent, which was a great way to introduce ourselves to the community. Going into 2016 we are feeling very proud and confident with what we have done already.

What were some of the biggest considerations taken into account when planning the launch of the hotel?

What are some of the unique facilities the hotel has to offer, and what do you consider your greatest asset?

The first consideration that we thought about of course was who our owners are and what they expect out of this. We were hired by the owners of the building to manage this as a Four Seasons hotel, and we had to

First of all, we are the only hotel in the world that features three Wolfgang Puck outlets, and we’re very proud of the relationship that we have with him. He does a few of our other properties, such as Maui and Beverly Wilshire, and

01 Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay is located on its own man-made 5 hectare (12 acre) island in the heart of Manama 02 CUT by Wolfgang Puck 03 General Manager Mr Greg Pirkle 04 The expansive, light-filled Spa 05 The grand Lobby

one going into Downtown New York, but this is the only location where he actually has three, which is very nice. We are also very proud of our spa, with seventeen treatment rooms, a beautiful layout and located on a private island. Finally, a feature that not everyone knows about yet – but will very soon – is that we are building our own beach. It’s going through final design right now and it’s a great facility that the owners are very excited about providing for us. So we will have a beach by Autumn!

How has the response been to the Four Seasons restaurants by celebrity Chef Wolfgang Puck? That’s a great question to also ask the diners that come in here, they are very excited about the fact that they are coming in and having some of the best quality food offered in the country. I am still very proud of securing this relationship and having the chance to dine in any three of his restaurants.

How does the hotel compare to other Four Seasons locations around the world? With 91 properties around the world, every one of them is unique and pretty special. We are a management company so we don’t own any of them, but when we get into a partnership with an owner we look at a couple different elements that are very important to us. These include things such as location,

demographics of the area, and making sure we establish a good partnership with our owner, so that they understand what it takes to be a Four Seasons property. We have certain expectations, from a product standpoint and from a location standpoint that have to be addressed.

What are some of the advantages of the hotel’s unique location at Bahrain Bay? Being on our own little bay is very nice, and we are very excited about The Avenues Mall opening very soon, which is estimated to be in about a year and a half’s time. The location is ideal for our guests, we will have a water taxi that can take shoppers there and back and we’ll be able to entertain them for lunch or high tea, or whatever they want. Our guests will also be able to utilise those facilities.

What are your goals and aspirations for the hotel over the next few years? We want to be considered by all as being the first hotel that comes to mind when you think of Bahrain. When the owners put this property together, the idea was not only that it was an iconic building, but also that it was a gateway to the rest of the world. When we opened this hotel it was like saying ‘Bahrain is open for business’, and the idea of a Four Seasons being here is an opportunity for us to extend ourselves not only to the GCC, but also to Europe and Eastern European and the Far East.

128

Travel and Leisure

Mandarin Oriental, Milan Mandarin Oriental is delighted to bring the art of oriental hospitality to the heart of the city, with the opening of Mandarin Oriental, Milan. Mandarin Oriental, Milan is an intimate and contemporary hotel housed within four elegantly redeveloped 18th century buildings, with a distinctly residential feel. The 104 elegant rooms and suites offer the most stylish and spacious accommodation in the city. Situated on the central Via Andegari, just a few steps away from the fashionable Via Manzoni and Montenapoleone, the hotel is perfectly located, with easy access to the city’s most important commercial, fashion and cultural centres. The property combines contemporary Italian design by internationally renowned architect and designer Antonio Citterio, with timeless oriental luxury and service, to provide a comfortable and well-appointed environment. Executive chef Antonio Guida, formerly of the two Michelin starred restaurant Il Pellicano, in Tuscany, presides over the hotel’s fine dining restaurant, Seta, which has a menu of sophisticated, contemporary dishes combining French, Asian and Tuscan influences. The restaurant offers al fresco dining in its beautiful courtyard as well as year01 round seating indoors. 02 The more casual Mandarin Bar, which also has courtyard seating, offers a ‘bistro style’ menu of Italian dishes and hotel classics. Its vibrant atmosphere makes it the perfect spot for enjoying a typical Milanese snack or evening drink. The Spa at Mandarin Oriental, Milan is a relaxing, holistic retreat, with six treatment rooms, two couple’s suites, and a dedicated Thai massage room. In addition, there is a world-class hair salon headed by celebrity stylist, Massimo Serini, a manicure and pedicure studio, a beauty studio, an indoor heated swimming pool and a state-ofthe-art fitness centre. “We are delighted to introduce Mandarin Oriental’s renowned hospitality to Italy, and are confident that Mandarin Oriental, Milan will become a new luxury landmark for guests seeking the finest address in the city,” said Luca Finardi, General Manager. www.mandarinoriental.com/milan

The pinnacle of luxury for hotels worldwide, these hotels establish themselves as ultimate achievers in the service of excellence. In some of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most beautiful cities, each location goes further than the normal call of duty to set the benchmark for brilliance on the global front.

02 Inside one of the hotelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s exclusive dining locations 03 Stylish and modern Bistro Area 03

04 Presidential Suite Living Room 04

Grand Getaways

01 The Presidential Suite Bedroom

130

Travel and Leisure

Palazzo Versace, Dubai Palazzo Versace Dubai, developed in joint venture with Enshaa Group – one of the region’s premier developers – is set to be the most luxurious hotel the Middle East has ever seen. Artistic director Donatella Versace has exclusively designed the interiors and furniture for each of the 215 rooms, bringing the universe of Versace to life. Every detail is exquisite, from the ceilings handdetailed in gold, to the finest marbles and mosaics. The interiors imagine the Versace lifestyle through the contemporary eye of Artistic Director Donatella Versace, where everything is opulent. Throughout the design run the iconic motifs of Versace, such as the Medusa head, the Greek Key and the house’s legendary prints, with many designs created exclusively for the Palazzo Versace Dubai. The grand lobby features an extraordinary 1000 square meter marble mosaic floor, with bespoke furniture and textiles decorated with peacocks, falcons and horses. For all-day dining, the Giardino has marble flooring and columns, with the walls decorated in a special edition of the iconic Jungle print from Versace Wallpaper collection. Meanwhile the Vanitas restaurant is reminiscent of a classical Italian palace, with handmade wall decorations featuring the Grottesche Italiane. Palazzo Versace Dubai will also be home to 169 condominiums, ranging from one to six bedrooms, each

decorated and furnished in the true Versace style. Situated in the heart of the city, Palazzo Versace Dubai is at the centre of the new Culture Village, located on a prime waterfront plot with unobstructed views of the Dubai Creek. “Versace is a renowned fashion, luxury and lifestyle company. Since the very beginning we’ve encompassed many product categories – from clothing to accessories, from luxury goods to the home collection – to convey the uniqueness and iconic style of the brand,” said Mr Gian Giacomo Ferraris, Chief Executive Officer of Versace. “In 2000 we pioneered the luxury fashion-branded hotels, opening the first Palazzo Versace Gold Coast, Australia and today we are proud to bring the ultimate Versace lifestyle in Dubai with the new hotel. The fine and luxurious designs by Versace will be present in every detail of the living environment, and luxury will become a lifestyle.” Speaking on the hotel opening, master developer ENSHAA PSC CEO, Raza Jafar, said, “This is a very exciting time for the Palazzo Versace chain, and we are thrilled to bring this iconic hotel to the exquisite, cosmopolitan city of Dubai. As always, we are especially thankful to our team who have been working hard to create a beautiful end product for our valued guests and to help provide them with an unforgettable experience during their visit.” www.palazzoversacedubai.com

05 Inside the Grand Suite 06 Exterior of the hotel at night 07 A Residence Living Room 08 The hotel’s stunning Main Lobby

132

Travel and Leisure

The Lobby is the place to see and be seen, surrounded by The Bar, The Spa, The Pool Area and The Cigar Library

09 Inside the Grand Deluxe Room 10 The breath-taking entrancea 11 Furka Suite Living Room 12 The hotel’s Lobby Area

The Chedi Andermatt With the opening of The Chedi Andermatt, the GHM group, established in 1992, set a new standard in design and hospitality in Switzerland. Jean-Michel Gathy, Chief designer and advisor for Denniston International Architects & Planners Ltd., from Kuala Lumpur, is responsible for the signature style of the hotel, which carefully balances tradition with nature. Alpine chic meets Asian nuances throughout the 5-star hotel. In the 100 appointed rooms and suites (from 52 square metres to 134 square metres) Gathy achieves this cohesion by using local elements with a keen attention to detail – large fireplaces, wood panelling, and terraces allowing the indoor and outdoor spaces to blend seamlessly together. Local materials are used throughout the hotel in keeping with traditional GHM style. Designed by SPIN Design Studio from Japan, The Chedi Andermatt offers the following culinary facilities: The Restaurant showcases four open kitchens specialising in

cold cuts, desserts, Western and Asian Cuisine and is open all day. The Japanese Restaurant by Hide Yamamoto seats forty-six guests, for maximum exclusivity and privacy, where guests can choose to sit at either the open sushi and sashimi bar or the tempura bar, where authentic Japanese delicacies will be served. The Lobby is the place to see and be seen, surrounded by The Bar, The Spa, The Pool Area and The Cigar Library. With two fireplaces for a warm atmosphere it is the place to enjoy small dishes as well as The Chedi Afternoon Tea. The Bar and Living Room is where guests can meet and relax after a long day on the slopes or on the golf course. It is also the place to meet the ski butler to arrange the next day’s skiing around small dishes of local snacks with beverages. The Courtyard is the perfect place to unwind in the winter and summer months alike. Featuring a terrace and large pond, guests are treated to a breath-taking view of the Gemsstock Mountain. A small bar serves refreshing drinks in warm weather, and warm ones in the chilly months. The Pool Area offers guests not only a 35-metre indoor pool, but also an outdoor swimming pool, complete with bath towels, sun creams, beauty products, magazines and newspapers, and light refreshments. In the summer months the destination is a paradise for hikers, bikers, nature lovers and those seeking relaxation. Classic car enthusiasts can be seen on the weekends driving on the famous passes around Andermatt. Avid golfers will find an 18-hole par 72 golf course, designed by Kurt Rossknecht, just minutes from the hotel. Embedded perfectly into the high alpine landscape, this course offers stunning views and the added value of high altitude, making golf balls fly further naturally. Gemsstock Mountain welcomes all winter sports enthusiasts – from its Eldorado for free riders to families enjoying the sunny slopes of Andermatt. www.thechedi-andermatt.com/en

134

Travel and Leisure

Mandarin Oriental, Kuala Lumpur

Mandarin Oriental, Kuala Lumpur enjoys a prime location in the heart of one of Asia’s premier capitals. Situated adjacent to the famed 88-storey Petronas Twin Towers, the hotel’s strategic location guarantees that guests are at the centre of both the leisure and business aspects of the city. Accommodation at Mandarin Oriental, Kuala Lumpur represents the epitome of luxury. The hotel features 643 guestrooms; including 41 elegantly appointed suites and 51 serviced apartments. Thoughtfully designed with comfort in mind, the rich woods, plush fabrics and engaging artworks appeal to the most discerning traveller. Aimed at providing a residential feel, the inroom features include all the luxuries associated with a Mandarin Oriental guestroom. A new dimension in luxury living, the exclusive Mandarin Oriental Club, highlights seven private Mandarin Oriental Club floors, comprising 148 guest rooms, 30 Park Suites, 10 Club Suites and one Presidential Suite. Each of these rooms overlooks either the KLCC Park or the city’s impressive skyline. Along-with in-room registration, some of the many benefits which Club guests will enjoy are complimentary breakfast, deli lunch, evening drinks, hors d’oeuvres, coffee or tea, soft drinks and snacks at the Club Lounge; pressing, laundry and dry cleaning services; use of the Club Lounge Business Centre, Boardrooms, and reading room. Guests at the hotel will also be able to select from

13 The impressive Lobby Area 14 The Premium City View Bedroom 15 Exterior of the hotel at dusk 16 The Presidential Suite Bathroom 17 The Park Suite Dining Room 18 The Club Suite Living Room

a vast array of innovative cuisines, with ten restaurants and bars providing an extensive choice of menus, appealing to every palate and each offering a unique dining experience. Guests can opt for fine Cantonese cuisine at Lai Po Heen, which specialises in classic Cantonese delicacies and Dim Sum, Casbah lounge that features an extensive menu of beverages and snacks, or simply indulge in modern grill selections at Mandarin Grill and MO Bar. Lavish buffet breakfast, lunch and dinner are served in Mosaic, ranging from local specialities to international favourites at interactive kitchens within the restaurant, whilst the Lounge on the Park serves the most luscious afternoon tea. Alternatively, guests can enjoy a relaxing lunch by the pool where global tapas and wood-fired pizzas are available at AQUA Restaurant & Bar, or savour contemporary Californian-Japanese fare in the quiet elegance of Wasabi Bistro. For a chic-late night out, Sultan Lounge features modern design with a touch of privacy as well as a vibrant mix of people and music. Those wishing to hold an event at the hotel, the conference and banqueting facilities are unrivalled in the city. The property is home to the largest pillar-less Grand Ballroom in Kuala Lumpur and can accommodate up to 1,800 guests for a sit-down dinner. 16

16 17

www.mandarinoriental.com/kualalumpur 18

136

Spas

The Spa, The Chedi Andermatt

01 01 Inside the Relaxation Lounge 02 The Hydrothermal Pool 03 The soothing Sauna Room

Andermatt had been a popular year-round holiday and wellness resort for the last 100 years, complete with a beautiful location and friendly local population. The Chedi Andermatt opened in December 2013, marking a milestone in the development of the Andermatt Swiss Alps resort, a year-round resort featuring apartments, chalets, hotels and leisure facilities. The Spa at The Chedi Andermatt covers 2,400 square metres and is based on a holistic spa and health concept, which aims to improve and focus on guestsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; health and bring both mind and body into harmony with nature and the environment. A team of expert therapists and personal trainers advise guests on treatments and tailor programmes based on individual needs. Wellness seekers will find that The Spa has a range of baths and saunas, including bio and Finnish saunas, a scented salt steam bath, an outdoor pool, hot and cold plunge pools, a Hammam, ice fountain and flower bath. Guests can relax with an Oriental treatment in one of the ten spa suites. The Spa has its origins rooted in oriental philosophy, based on Asian healing traditions. The Asian-Inspired treatments use

the natural products from ila, REN and Alpienne which have been especially adapted for the Chedi Andermatt. The organic products of Alpienne contain, among other things, oils from plants and fruits, many of which can be found in the mountains of Andermatt. The Spa also offers manicures, pedicures and hair styling. Guests at The Chedi Andermatt have access to a 35-metre swimming pool; covered by a glass roof, as well as a 12-metre temperature controlled outdoor lap pool. Both pools are exclusive to guests and residences. For guests who feel that a day on the slopes or a hike through the mountains is simply not enough activity for one day they can also visit The Health Club, which features state-of-the-art fitness equipment by Technogym. The Visio Web line Technogym offers various free weights, a Kinesis Wall, Power Plates and Pilates Machines. In addition to group classes, such as yoga and Pilates among other things, guests at the gym have the choice to attend individual or group sessions with personal trainers. Sessions outside are also on offer, including walking, mountain biking or cross-country skiing. www.ghmhotels.com/en/andermatt/spa-wellness

Situated in some of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most beautifully stunning locations, these three spas are paradise for those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation of the highest standard. With top-notch facilities and a range of exclusive treatments offered by some of the best skilled therapists, each destination is an enriching experience for the mind body and spirit.

Exclusive Tranquillity

138

Spas 04 Dreamy and relaxing spa interior 05 Exterior of the fitness area 06 The calming Spa Entrance 07 Treatments by candlelight

Le Spa Namaskar, Marrakech Le Spa Namaskar seeks to rejuvenate the body as completely and thoroughly as it refreshes the mind. Every aspect of the guest experience is inspired and influenced by the principles of Feng Shui; purity, energy, balance, and channelling natural energies to heal and revitalise from within. Le Spa Namaskar body treatments include several signature luxury spa experiences. Directed by ILA and Aromatherapy Associates, spa treatments promote a deep connection between the individual, the therapist and the elements and are a true sensory experience. The holistic use of all-natural ingredients further nourishes the body and the mind. The custom-designed luxury spa in Marrakech includes four individual spa suites with private outside terraces, and two couple suites with private Hammam. The special VIP couple suite offers a private Hammam, Jacuzzi and a fireplace for an intimate atmosphere. In-villa spa services are also available, so guests can enjoy selected treatments and massages in the comfort of their own private gardens. Palais Namaskar is also home to a modern fitness

centre featuring the most advanced technology and exercise equipment. A highly professional trainer assists all guests to optimise their workouts. Hotel guests can also enjoy the inspiring 1km-jogging path, which weaves along among the scented gardens. Everyday there is a choice of complimentary fitness activities lead by the resident coach. The main swimming pool is a refreshing landscape, with large day beds, and is a sociable venue for relaxation after a workout or spa, or to enjoy at leisure. Palaces, villas and some luxury suites have their own heated pools for guests who prefer to swim in private. For guests who have never experienced the proven benefits of yoga, Palais Namaskar is an ideal place to start. The hotel is a world-class destination for practicing, as its tranquil Moroccan surroundings with serene lakes and green vistas abound with harmony and positive natural energies. A certified yoga instructor is available to assist all hotel guests with their meditation. Yoga or meditation classes are available three times a week. www.palaisnamaskar.com/eng/spa-wellness

140

Spas

08 Spa Exterior at dusk 09 Couples Treatment Room 10 Relaxation Area rose petal bath 11 The lush Spa Garden

The Spa, Baros Maldives Set in the heart of the resort, hidden within the lush foliage of a tranquil, tropical garden, the Spa at Baros Maldives has four large luxurious treatment suites, each with a changing room, toilet, relaxation area and an open-to-the sky rain shower. The Spa offers massages to soothe the mind and relax the body, as well as therapies from all over Asia and a variety of cosmetic products. Treatments can be adapted to meet each guestâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s individual needs. Four large luxurious treatment rooms are hidden within the lush foliage of the tropical spa garden. They have a feeling of exclusivity with their private steam rooms and guests are soon immersed by the warm and elegant serenity. Two treatment beds in each treatment room promise complete bliss for couples, who are also encouraged to enjoy the private Spa bath or the outside rain shower that suggests the touch of velvet tropical air on the skin. To enter The Spa at Baros Maldives is to step into serenity as a feeling of calm and wellbeing pervades the atmosphere. The entrance is through intricately carved wooden doors opening onto stepping-stones over an ornamental pond set in a verdant, landscaped garden. There the gentle sound of trickling water

greets guests to a tranquil sanctum devoted to pure and inspiring therapies. A Spa Therapist offers a deliciously freshly made cold and therapeutic beverage of ginger, honey and lime. The Spa uses botanical products free of radicals as well as traditional coconut oil in custom-designed massage therapies. It also features special Signature Experiences that are combinations of different techniques creating an inspiring therapy using local oils and ingredients for a true Maldivian touch. Classic wooden decking fringed by lush tropical foliage leads to four discreet treatment villas in the inner sanctuary. Each has a dressing room, shower and private steam room. Two treatment beds in each villa promise complete bliss for couples. A ritual footbath starts the therapy and after treatment couples can enjoy the Spa bath and rain shower in the privacy of the garden bathroom. For the more innovative guest, The Spa has designed an unusual treatment programme with a star gazing massage during full moon nights performed on the Piano Deck under the star lit sky above the Baros lagoon. www.baros.com/spa-resort-maldives

SPORT HORIZONS Seef Mall

+973 17 58 1 911

144

Dining

Take a sensory journey of thoughtfully prepared dishes inspired by flavours spanning the globe, as Chefs from these leading restaurants present their finest. Enjoy the majestic setting of each location, as they play host to tantalising and unforgettable food creations with an endless amount of choice to satisfy any taste.

Epicurean Adventure

Mint Leaf, Dubai Firmly established as one of Dubai’s most stylish fine dining venues, Mint Leaf of London is renowned for serving high-quality modern Indian cuisine to DIFC patrons. Taking a fresh approach in 2016, a new menu has been released which provides healthy options and caters to those with strict dietary requirements, ensuring even more to love about the dining hotspot. Creating mouth-watering ‘off the menu’ dishes since its inception, Mint Leaf Dubai has now gone one step further and produced an entire menu of healthy creations that range from gluten free to nut free, along with low fat, organic and vegan friendly options. Enriched in spices and flavour, the array of healthy, modern Indian cuisine available is carefully prepared under the guidance of worldclass Head Chef Vivek Kashiwale. Signature dishes available on the new menu include items such as the ‘Fisherman’s Prawns’ (Black Tiger Prawns with Lemongrass, Kaffir Lime and Garlic). An excellent source of antioxidants, the prawns for this dish are dry roasted which ensures less saturated fat. Also available is the ‘Masaledaar Bharwan Mirch’ (Roasted Bell Pepper bursting with diced Beetroot, Squash, Sweet Potato, Peas, Quinoa and Paneer), which is basted in olive oil before being roasted. Dessert lovers are also looked after, with sugar free desserts on offer, and to complement the healthy dining options, a beverage list inclusive of zero calorie and protein-packed beverages is also available.

www.mintleaf.ae

02 03

01 The elegantly modern interior 02 Quinoa Crusted Subz Seekh 03 Fishermanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Prawns

146

Dining

04 04 The Sushi and Sashimi Counter 05 A fine dining sushi selection 06 The Tempura Counter

A signature taste of Asia amidst the Swiss Alps, The Japanese offers front row seats to the artful action from the Japanese Masters and visiting chefs.

The Japanese Restaurant, The Chedi, Andermatt Located in Urserental, at the heart of Switzerland, the dining experiences at The Chedi Andermatt promise understated elegance, culinary excellence and commitment to superior service. The Japanese Restaurant by Hide Yamamoto seats forty guests, for maximum exclusivity and privacy, where guests can choose to sit at either the open sushi and sashimi bar or the tempura bar, where authentic Japanese delicacies will be served. A selection of delicious beverages are also on offer, and can be expertly paired with each dish. A signature taste of Asia amidst the Swiss Alps, The Japanese offers front row seats to the artful action from the Japanese Masters and visiting chefs. To keep the experience authentic, fresh fish is on

offer and be carefully selected by guests. The interior of the restaurant is styled in an elegant and traditionally Japanese manner, with sleek dark wooden floors and counters, dim mood lighting and simple yet stylish decoration. Wide comfortable chairs sit amongst stone pillars, and the red tiled sushi bar gives a warm and inviting feel to the restaurant. Open during the winter months only, The Japanese Restaurant serves a decadent spread of sushi and sashimi as well as other Japanese favourites, that make for a truly delicious and unforgettable dining experience. www.ghmhotels.com/en/andermatt/dining

148

Dining

Benjarong, Dusit Thani, Dubai Serving Royal Thai Cuisine straight from the palaces of Thailand, Benjarong Restaurant is located in the elegant Dusit Thani Hotel in Dubai. The hotel’s award-winning signature restaurant affords diners gorgeous views of the Dubai skyline, whilst serving the unforgettable flavours of Royal Thai cuisine. Menu options feature centuries-old recipes straight from the palaces of Thailand, prepared by expertly trained international Chefs. Popular items include delicious dishes such as ‘Gaeng Phed Ped Yang’ (Roasted duck in red curry with pineapple, tomato and grape), ‘Chu Chee Pla’ (Fried battered red snapper fillet topped with thick sweet red curry sauce and mushroom) and ‘Goong Mungkorn Benjarong’ (Stir-fried battered main lobster with roasted chilli paste, red onion, bell pepper

and sweet basil leaves). Dessert options will leave guests satisfied, with traditional delicacies on offer, such as ‘Bua Loy Benjarong’ (Glutinous flour balls in warm coconut milk) and ‘Taco Saku’ (Flavoured sago pandanus with coconut cream). The restaurant’s majestic interior resembles the royal dining halls of King Rama IV, creating a regal ambience to the space, while the gentle sounds of classically trained Thai musicians add to the authenticity of this unique dining experience. An elegantly styled private dining room is available for special events and is adorned with traditionally Thai décor. www.dusit.com/dusitthani/dubai/dining/benjarongrestaurant/

07 One of the private dining rooms 08 Tab Tim Grob (Ruby Water Chestnuts in Iced Coconut Milk) 09 A traditional Thai experience 10 Phad Thai Goong (Stir-fried Thai rice noodles)

150

Dining

From the design through to the slick, USstyle service and the menu, Crab Tavern provides something new and fresh

11 12

11 Rustic yet stylish interior 12 Diner booths â&#x20AC;&#x201C; traditional to the Crab Tavern 13 A West Coast Bucket Broil 14 Fish and Chips, Crab Tavern Style 15 Louisiana Shovel

Crab Tavern, Dubai 15

This summer Crab Tavern will be offering the best selection of cosmopolitan crab, and a hearty dose of other delicious menu options, located in Dubai. Having just launched in Londonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Broadgate Circle, Crab Tavern seafood restaurant and bar has now opened on level 9 at the Media One Hotel. Dubaiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s latest dining hub merges New York style sandwiches and salads with seafood favourites including an array of hero crab dishes and a selection of more refined classics. Just as Dubai is seeing a new wave of American food trends arriving, Crab Tavern has emerged and added a modern approach to good old-fashioned stateside fun, food and service. With crab being the American crustacean of choice, the menu options,

dining experience, and atmosphere pay tribute to this, and the restaurant has already become a spot that tourists, expats and locals are keen to return to time and time again. Crab Tavern houses diner booths, high top counter spots and a bar. Sleek, dark and alluring in its design, the new seafood restaurant and bar takes an urban-rustic approach, capturing an upscale, downtown vibe, with exposed brick walls, lighting accents and warm wooden features. From the design through to the slick, US-style service and the menu, Crab Tavern provides something new and fresh. www.crabtavern.ae

152

Bon AppĂŠtit

Culinary Connoisseur

Throughout his career, Chef Joachim Koerper has been engaged with some of the finest luxury hotels throughout Europe, cooking for notable figures from the world of politics and the arts as well as international celebrities. His inspirations come from his travels to Greece, Sardinia, Southern Spain and France and are reflected in the diverse flavours, colours, and aromas of his Mediterranean cuisine. Chef Koerper shares with Durrah three exclusive recipes from his Michelin Star Restaurante Eleven, which is located in the centre of Lisbon.

154

Bon Appétit

Blue Lobster Consommé in Gelée with Brunoise vegetables Ingredients Serves 4 • 2 blue lobsters, weighing 500-600g each • Green part of a courgette • 1/2 carrot • 1/2 celery ball • 4 gelatine leaves • 35g ginger • Olive oil • Fleur de sel • 3 l court-bouillon Ingredients for the Consommé • Lobster shells • 5 cl white grape juice • 1 cl raspberry extract • Half teaspoon of tomato pulp • 1 garlic clove • 1/2 onion • 1/2 carrot • Green leaves of a leek • 1 sprig thyme • Olive oil Ingredients for the Clarification • 1 garlic clove • 75 sprig lemon grass • 50g celery stick • 5 egg-whites and shells • Ice Method 1. Cook the lobster in the court-bouillon for 5 minutes at 80ºC and cool down with water and ice. Remove the shells and set aside. 2. Roast the shells in the oven at 180ºC until golden. 3. Cut the vegetables for the consommé into mirepoix and sweat in olive oil, add the shells and deglaze with white grape juice and raspberry extract. 4. Flambée, add the tomato pulp, thyme and cover with water. Bring to a boil and simmer for 30 minutes. 5. Drain and clarify: mix the garlic, lemon grass and egg whites with the eggshells and some ice. When the lobster stock comes to a boil, stir slowly with a spoon and pass through a sieve. 6. When a crust forms on top of the stock, open a whole in the crust and reserve the liquid, using the crust to filter the liquid. Pass the stock through this natural filter (approximately 3 to 4 minutes) until the crust is lying in the bottom of the pot. Set aside to rest and pass through a sieve.

7. Reserve 1/2 litre and add the gelatine leaves (previously soaked in cold water). 8. Cut the green side of the courgette, carrot and celery into brunoise, boil and add to the consommé. Cut the lobster into thin slices. To serve: 1. Place the sliced lobster on a bed of vegetables and pour in the consommé. 2. Garnish with a claw and allow to cool for more consistency. 3. Sprinkle with fresh herbs, olive oil and fleur de sel.

Atlantic John Dory with white beans, chouriço from Alentejo and meat-flavoured vinaigrette Ingredients Serves 4 • 640g Atlantic John Dory fillets with skin • 240g dried white beans • 1 chouriço from Alentejo • 1/2 chopped onion • 1 carrot in brunoise • 1 garlic clove • 6 cl veal stock • 20 cl olive oil • 1/2 l chicken stock • 1 sprig parsley • 30 cl sunflower oil • 2 cl Sherry vinegar • Salt • Fleur de sel Method 1. Soak the beans in mineral water for four hours before starting. 2. Cut half of the chouriço in brunoise and confit the other half in olive oil at 130ºC for 10 minutes. Set aside to rest. 3. Sweat the onion and carrot in olive oil, add the chouriço brunoise and the rinsed beans. Add the chicken stock until all ingredients are submerged, cover and allow to simmer. 4. Reserve the olive oil of the chouriço confit and add the stock and vinegar. Emulsify. Sautee the fish in olive oil. Fry the parsley in oil at 140ºC. To serve 1. Arrange the beans and the chouriço in the middle of the plate and place the fish on top. 2. Pour the vinaigrette next to the fish. 3. Season with fleur de sel and olive oil and garnish with fried parsley.

156

Bon Appétit

Strawberries in thyme infusion, thyme jam and cream foam Ingredients For the strawberries • 1 kg strawberries • 200g sugar Method 1. Place the diced strawberries in a bowl and add sugar. 2. Cover with cling film and cook in bain-marie for 1 hour to 1.5 hours. 3. When cooked, pass through the colander and reserve the juice for the thyme infusion. Ingredients For the thyme infusion: • 300g strawberry juice • 5g fresh thyme Method 1. Bring the strawberry juice to a boil and add the thyme. 2. Remove from the burner, cover with cling film and allow to infuse for 1 hour. Method For the strawberry jam 1. Puree the cooked strawberries for the jam. 2. Place in the termomix to obtain a fine jam. Ingredients For the cream foam • 10 cl sour cream • 1 coffee spoon of icing-sugar Method 1. Emulsify the cream with icing-sugar. To serve: 1. Place in a cocktail glass the jam, infusion, cream foam and slices of fresh strawberries, by this order. 2. Garnish with thyme. www.restauranteleven.com

2015

158

Automotive

Guaranteed to entice and excite, Durrah presents the latest models from top automobile manufacturers. These are the most exclusive and exquisite cars in the world, equipped with unique performance specs and features that make them stand above and beyond the rest.

Breaking New Ground

160

Automotive

01 Fresh blend of luxury with sporting performance 02 Incisive elegance 03 11.6-inch rear entertainment system 04 Powerful presence with subtle use of refined materials 05 Chrome exhaust tips convey its sporty nature 06 Flowing roofline characterizes elegant wind-cutting shape

Lexus RX Luxury Crossover The all-new 2016 Lexus RX is a stylish, dynamically designed luxury crossover that breaks new ground in refinement, comfort and driving performance. The new RX’s mix of sharp creases and curves represents a bold evolution in the model’s styling, sharing the same design DNA with other recently launched models in the Lexus line-up. It adds advanced new redesigned powertrains, sophisticated safety technologies, driver aids and welcomes new convenience and technology features to make this the best Lexus sport-utility vehicle offering to date. The Lexus RX is available with two engine choices: the RX 350 model comes with a 3.5-litre, V-6 petrol engine mated to a new eight-speed automatic transmission, while the RX 450h is equipped with a 3.5-litre, V-6 petrol engine and revised hybrid powertrain components. The front view of the new RX is characterised by an emboldened version of the Lexus brand’s signature spindle grille featuring a chrome-plated border and triple L-shape-LED headlamps. Together with the new front fog light/LED cornering light clusters, the RX’s face exudes an elegant yet futuristic aura. The new RX’s rear appearance is sharpened, now exuding a sense of chiselled, rock-solid stability with the design highlighted by LED L-shaped taillights that wrap around the sides of the vehicle, creating a wider, more authoritative presence when illuminated. Other new exterior features include flush-fitting headlight washers, panoramic moon roof design, solid roof rails, redesigned Smart Entry System door handles and

convenient door handle illumination. The new RX is offered in 10 exciting colours including 3 newly introduced colours: Graphite Black Glass Flake, Amber Crystal Shine and Deep Blue Mica. The RX also offers a choice of 2 different aluminium wheel packages including an 18-inch seven-spoke wheel and a distinct 20-inch wheel set. The interior carries on the RX’s impeccable balance of functionality and opulence. Having been a signature design trait for Lexus since the very beginning, the seats in the new RX are based on an ergonomic design that puts equal emphasis on comfort and accessibility, elegance and richly appointed surfaces. Five new colours have been added for the leather surfaces that include the seats and door panels—Noble Brown, Rich Cream, Topaz Brown, Dark Rose (F Sport only) and White (F Sport only) giving the interior a chic, classy aura. Discerning audiophiles will enjoy the available 15-speaker Mark Levinson Premium Surround System. RX offers an optional 8-inch and 12.3-inch navigation system. The 12.3-inch system features an Electro Multi Vision (EMV) display with a large high-definition Thin Film Transistor (TFT) liquid crystal display, enhanced Lexus Multimedia with new-look graphics and the handy computer mouse-like Remote Touch Interface. The available rear seat entertainment system now includes dual 11.6-inch screens affixed to the back of the front headrests with tilt mechanism. The new RX incorporates Lexus Safety System+ which include, Pre-Collision System (PCS), Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC), Lane Keeping Assist (LKA)

and Automatic High Beam (AHB)/Adaptive High-beam System (AHS). A plethora of additional vital safety features and technologies are included for all RX models, including 10 SRS airbags, Braking and Traction Control systems that include four-wheel ventilated power-assisted disc brakes, a four-sensor, four-channel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA), Traction Control (TRAC), Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Hill-start Assist Control to mention a few. The 2016 RX F SPORT model elevates the sporty image of the RX to an entirely new level. The first thing the driver will notice is the distinctive shape of the spindle grille and the exclusive multi-spoke 20-inch aluminium wheel design, in addition to the exclusive instrumentation cluster that consists of an 8-inch Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) that’s characterised by a large, easy-to-read circular gauge that artistically combines a tachometer and a digital speed indicator. All RX F SPORT models boast excellent handling, thanks in part to the Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) system and the Active Stabilizer Suspension System. The interior of the RX F SPORT has been styled to match the vehicle’s sporty disposition. The highly supportive quilted seat that is exclusive to the F SPORT, include exclusive interior colour choices such as White and Dark Rose. www.lexus.com.bh

162

Automotive

Lincoln MKX Almoayyed Motors, the Lincoln importer-dealer in Bahrain had announced the arrival of the all-new Lincoln MKX to its showroom. The all-new Lincoln MKX is a vehicle that combines thoughtful and elegant design with a safe, effortless ride and a warm, tailored experience. “Personalised luxury, delivered through a suite of customer-focused enhancements, is at the heart of the all-new MKX,” said Sandeep Mathur, General Manager. “Power matched with refinement, helpful technology that’s easy to use and beautiful, thoughtful design elevate MKX to a whole new level.” Leading the engine choices for the entirely MKX is the available advanced 2.7-litre twin-turbocharged Ti-VCT EcoBoost V6, which is GSO-rated at 346 PS at 5,250 rpm and 542 Nm of torque at 3,000 rpm on premium fuel. The standard 3.7-litre V6 is GSO-rated at 308 PS at 6,500 rpm and 379 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm. Both engines are mated to a six-speed SelectShift® automatic transmission with push-button shift. Frontwheel drive is standard, Intelligent All-Wheel Drive optional. Drivers can select among normal, sport and comfort modes. Active noise control enhances overall sound quality by cancelling unwanted noises, resulting in a comfortable cabin and a better environment for music listening and incar telephone conversation. First in class to have a 360-degree camera with enhanced park assist, the available features and technologies have been orchestrated to provide a seamless experience. The front camera, for example, sits behind the Lincoln Star badge. When in Drive, Park or Neutral and the button is pushed, the Lincoln Star badge moves out about one inch and tilts up to deploy the available front camera.

The camera system also offers a 180-degree split view, which can be helpful in looking out in cross-traffic situations. The 360-degree view shows up to seven feet all around the vehicle, helping to make parking easier. The 12-sensor ultrasonic system enables the full range of available parking-assist features: front rear side sensing, perpendicular and parallel parking and park out. A 13-speaker Revel system designed for the ultimate audio quality experience is available on the all-new Lincoln MKX Select and Reserve. This system features acclaimed performance is born from a philosophy that embraces science and technology as a means to advance the state of the art in an authentic and natural way. In terms of aesthetics, the model has a truly elegant appearance. Proud, wide shoulders, dynamic side undercuts and belt lines, and clever touches such as the integrated antenna underscore a sophisticated and powerful presence. The interior blends function with flowing forms to inspire a sense of luxurious adventure. It is both open and cocoon-like, stunning yet quiet. Rich materials and exquisite detailing add to the experience. The patented Active Motion function is a slight continuous movement in the seat cushion, which helps reduce potential back pain by provoking a change in the muscular activation of the pelvic area. Developed in part with input from orthopaedic surgeons, this feature is especially beneficial on long trips or while waiting in traffic. The seat contour and fit for both driver and passenger can be adjusted to personalise the seat. Further adjustments can be made through the four-way power head restraint and the power cushion thigh extender. www.lincolnbahrain.com

07 08

09 10

07 Revel Audio system. 12channel Class D amplifier & QuantumLogic Surround Sound 08 360-degree view on 8â&#x20AC;? color screen using 4 cameras 09 2016 Lincoln MKX 10 Customizable Active Motion multicontour front Seats with Bridge of Weir DeepsoftTM leather trim.

164

Automotive

11 11 The sporty stance and classic gran turismo silhouette of the 4-seater tell of its 100-year heritage 12 The sports exhaust with bypass valves creates the exhilarating Maserati sound 13 The V8 of the Granturismo Sport is larger at 4.7-litres, outputting 460 hp, and offers a choice of either the fully automatic 6-speed gearbox

Maserati GranTurismo The Maserati GranTurismo range, comprising the GranTurismo, GranTurismo Sport and the track-focused GranTurismo MC Stradale, blends high performance with exotic Italian design and renowned luxury. Mere figures can neither reveal the fascination of GranTurismo nor describe the distinct personality of each variant. To feel the Maserati passion you have to drive one. In 1914, the Maserati brothers teamed up to build the perfect racecar. Their contemporaries were individuals such as Ferdinand Porsche, the Bentley Brothers and later Enzo Ferrari – car aficionados and race drivers. All of them made luxury sports cars out of racecars, which became the impetus for the birth of the gran turismo segment. Maserati represents racing success in all classes and the most famous races and championships – from Targa Florio, Indianapolis, F1 Championship and FIA GT to the Maserati Trofeo MC of today. The Maserati GranTurismo was born to be the ultimate grand tourer with its endearing lines and engineering concept stretching back to the elegant Maserati A6 1500GT of 1947. The A6 has become the father of the Maserati gran turismo bloodline, reflecting a luxury coupé with a Pininfarina body mated to an engine borrowed from a racecar. The legacy of the GT ambition and pedigree continues to define the Maserati cars of today. Today’s GranTurismo range offers peerless, performance luxury in daily commuting, on long trips or for more committed, sporting drives. The sporty stance and classic gran turismo silhouette of the 4-seater tell of its 100-year heritage of famous Maserati race and road cars –

a true design masterpiece by Pininfarina. The three variants feature two powerful, naturallyaspirated V8 engines hand-assembled by Ferrari in Maranello giving the GranTurismo range its characteristic eager throttle response and free-revving characteristics. The 405 hp GranTurismo features a fascinating 4.2-litre V8 engine combined with a smooth, hydraulically operated, automatic 6-speed gearshift. The V8 of the GranTurismo Sport is larger at 4.7-litres, outputting 460 hp, and offers a choice of either the fully automatic 6-speed gearbox (MC Auto Shift) or the more race-focused, electro-actuated 6-speed auto unit (MC Shift). The 460 hp GranTurismo MC Stradale completes the top end of the GranTurismo range as a street version of the Trofeo MC racecar providing a racing experience for four adults. The sports exhaust with bypass valves creates the exhilarating Maserati sound. The front-mid sports car layout, rear-biased weight distribution and double wishbone suspensions, the hydraulic steering box, Brembo brakes and limited slip differential create the razor-sharp handling of a true sports car. The GranTurismo range offers on-road luxury with its spacious interior with four comfortable individual seats, Poltrona Frau® Leather and drilled Alcantara, perfect ergonomics and easy-to-use interfaces. Clients can express their individual style with custom-made seat upholstery, coloured brake calipers and more personalisation possibilities. www.bahrain.maserati.com

166

Automotive

14 15

14 With a body completely handcrafted out of carbon fibre, the Fenyr SuperSport has its first deliveries scheduled for 2017 15 Stripped down from diamondstudded headlights like its predecessor, the supercar shifts its main focus from pure opulence to a luxury performance 16 Its 900HP on the entry level model will make the SuperSport one of the fastest cars on earth for years to come 17 After almost 8 years under development between the facilities in the UAE, Italy and Germany, this model will bring several innovative features to the hyper-luxury automotive field

17 16

Fenyr SuperSport, W Motors stablished in 2012, W Motors is the first automotive design house and manufacturer of high performance luxury sports cars based in the Middle East. Following a successful launch at the International Qatar Motor Show in January 2013 where the Company launched its first prototype model The Lykan HyperSport, gathering international recognition and exposure, W Motors pursued a regional and international road show through private VIP exhibitions, international events and motor shows. Now W Motors has achieved a new milestone with the world debut of its latest creation, the Fenyr SuperSport, on the first day of the internationally acclaimed Dubai International Motor Show taking place at the Dubai World Trade Centre. Following the great success of its first creation, the Lykan HyperSport, that gained international recognition for its exclusivity and hero role in Hollywoodâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Blockbuster Fast and Furious 7, W Motors yet again marks a second historical moment on the exceptional day it unveiled the Fenyr SuperSport, joined by regional and international press with the presence of the Companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s global partners including names like Magna Steyr, RUF Automobile, StudioTorino and other renowned players from the automotive industry. The new Fenyr SuperSport is the latest addition

to the W Motors line-up of Hypercars focusing purely on performance, power and speed. Limited to only 25 units per year, the carbon fibre masterpiece perfectly balances advanced aerodynamics engineering with the aggressive W Motors aesthetics conceived by the W Motors internal design team. As one of the leading Hypercars for years to come, the Fenyr is powered by a custom made Flat Six Cylinder, 4.0L Twin Turbo, Mid-Rear engine produced by RUF Automobile in Germany, along with a 7 Speed Double Clutch gearbox, delivering from 900hp and 1200 NM of torque for extreme performances achieving 0 to 100km/h in less than 2.7 seconds and a top speed exceeding 400km/h. Also contributing to performance improvements, the whole car-body is crafted out of carbon fibre and complemented by a tubular lightweight aluminium chassis. The Fenyr SuperSport is once again the combination of skills from hundreds of professionals from leading companies in the automotive world. More particularly, the Fenyr was brought to life in collaboration with a plethora of renowned international technical partners including notorious engineering firms Magna Steyr Italy and RUF Automobile Germany. www.wmotors.ae

168

Automotive

With this extraordinary car we are looking forward to an exciting period of strong growth and sales success for Bentley

Bentayga, Bentley The Bentley Bentayga combines unparalleled luxury with effortless performance and everyday usability. With an all-new W12 powertrain, the Bentayga is the fastest, most powerful, most luxurious and most exclusive SUV in the world. It offers a true Bentley driving experience and showcases innovative technology features. Designed, engineered and handcrafted in Crewe, the Bentayga’s styling is pure Bentley. Sculptural with an elegant, timeless execution, it perfectly balances athleticism with confidence. From the four round LED headlamps and large matrix grille, to the distinctive power line and muscular haunches, the Bentley DNA is apparent throughout. The Bentley Bentayga boasts the world’s finest automotive cabin, with unrivalled levels of precision. The detailing in metal, wood and leather – including meticulous tolerances between elements of trim – is the epitome of modern British luxury. This level of perfection is only achievable thanks to the exceptional craft and skill of Bentley’s colleagues in Crewe.

An all-new twin-turbocharged 6.0-litre W12 engine is at the heart of the new Bentayga. The mighty 12-cylinder unit combines efficiency and refinement with ultra-luxurious levels of power and torque. With a delivery of 0-100 km/h in 4.1 seconds and a top speed of 301 km/h, the Bentayga is the world’s most powerful and fastest SUV. Wolfgang Dürheimer, chairman and chief executive of Bentley Motors, comments: “The Bentayga is truly the Bentley of SUVs. It redefines luxury in the SUV sector and offers a genuine Bentley experience in any environment, thanks to a combination of unparalleled attention to detail, go-anywhere ability and cutting-edge technology. With this extraordinary car we are looking forward to an exciting period of strong growth and sales success for Bentley. The Bentayga is the next step in our brand’s bold future.” The Bentayga’s wheel arches, fenders and bonnet deliver a balance between sportiness and SUV presence. The ultra-sharp Bentley power line and muscular rear haunch display a taut tension in side profile, as part of the

largest single-piece aluminium pressing in the automotive world. Trademark Bentley features such as the large matrix grille and B-shaped wing vents afford the Bentayga a modern, dynamic elegance. The grille is flanked by four distinctive floating allLED headlamps. The lights sit flush within the seamless super-formed aluminium front fenders. Innovative design features, like the discreet headlamp washers contained within the outer lamp’s body-coloured centre, demonstrate remarkable attention to detail. To emphasise the go-anywhere nature of the Bentayga, the Bentley design team have integrated a stylish skid plate into the lower section of the front bumper, just below the floating wing motif. At the rear, within the segmented taillights, a new ‘B’-shaped illumination graphic is incorporated that affords the Bentayga an instantly recognisable and striking nighttime signature. www.ahmedzayani.bentleymotors.com

18 The finest automotive interior ‎in the world, with handcrafted wood and leather throughout‎ 19 The Bentayga’s cockpit sets new standards for both luxury and precision. 20 Within the segmented taillights, a new ‘B’-shaped illumination ‎graphic is incorporated as an instantly recognisable ‎and striking night-time signature 21 The Bentayga’s standard colour palette comprises 17 exterior paint colours, with up to ‎‎90 hues available in the extended range

20 21

170

22 23

Automotive

24 25

California T, Ferrari Ferrari is a word synonymous with iconic sports cars and ground-breaking engineering. It is a brand that has motorsports coursing through its veins, yet has that Italian designer chic that feels just as comfortable in a casual drive along the Amalfi Coast as it does on a Formula One racetrack. Ferrari is proud of its achievements and motor sports DNA, but is determined to launch forward into the future in the tailwind of its strong brand values, carved out by its founder, Enzo Ferrari. Ferrari has been at the forefront of both automotive design and engineering, be it in the world of sports cars, luxurious grand tourers, supercars or motor sport. The famous Italian manufacturer, symbolized by the iconic Prancing Horse motif, has obtained world recognition by creating exquisite pieces of art and fitting them with performance-based technologies of the highest order. Its exclusive catalogue boasts of one of the most famous names associated with the Ferrari brand – California, a Ferrari model name that oozes heritage from every curve and vent. The first Ferrari to bear the name California was the original V12-engined 250 California, an exquisitely

designed 2-seater spider produced in 1957, which has become renowned as being one of the greatest examples of automotive design of all time. Scaglietti built around 100 of these, some with aluminium bodies, and examples now fetch millions at auction. Long-wheelbase versions were built between 1958 and 1960 before being replaced by the shortwheelbase version. Following in its footsteps was the equally impressive 365 California, less than 20 were ever built between 1966 and 1967. The exclusive nature of these Ferraris ensured that California became a hallowed name. The Italian company unveiled a modern day reiteration of the California at the 2008 Paris Motor Show, which evolved into the present generation California T, launched in 2014. The latest incarnation of the hardtop convertible has a new turbocharged V8, joining models such as the 1984 GTO and 1987 F40, hence the ‘T’ in the moniker. The Ferrari California T’s modern design gives it a powerful personality in which sportiness and elegance meld in the classically seamless way of every Prancing Horse ever built. The design, an elegantly balanced

22 With its refined elegance and Formula One-inspired turbocharged engine, the new California T reinforces the quality of the aspirated Ferrari engines, while delivering the same sound, progressive torque, 560hp and a remarkable reduction in emissions and consumption. 23 What counts for Ferrari is the is the soul inside the model and what that soul transmits 24 The refinement of the lines echo those that made its predecessors so successful 25 The California T conveys a total sense of freedom, of the sun, of luxury and style

172

Automotive

26 27

interplay of convex and concave surfaces gives the new California T the sophisticated allure of an authentic Ferrari Grand Tourer. With its softer curves, room for a small amount of luggage and easier-going nature of the chassis for those long inter-continental journeys, the California family are some of the most sought after Ferraris ever built. The Ferrari California T epitomises the sublime elegance, sportiness, versatility and exclusivity that have distinguished every California model since the 1950s. The California T is a car brimming with innovation that will more than meet the expectations of discerning clients for whom fun behind the wheel is a priority, but who also demand a sumptuously comfortable Grand Tourer they can use every day. The California T is a brilliant expression of Ferrari’s sporty DNA, while its retractable hard top (RHT) and 2+ configuration, amongst other features, make it supremely versatile. Like all Ferraris, the California T boasts cutting-edge technological solutions that make it absolutely unique, most notably the new turbocharged V8 engine. Turbo technology has an honourable place in Prancing Horse’s engineering tradition, thanks to iconic models of the likes of the GTO of 1984 and the F40 of 1987. It is now also, of course, back at the heart of our latest F1 single-seater. Maranello’s engineers have managed to design a remarkable power unit that combines classic Ferrari engine qualities, such as razorsharp responsiveness, blistering performance, superbly powerful acceleration at all speeds and an exhilarating soundtrack, with the advantages turbo technology, such as drastically reduced emissions and fuel consumption,

a high specific power output and compact dimensions. A genuinely unprecedented achievement that sets a new benchmark for the industry. The California T sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.6 seconds flat and from 0 to 200 km/h in 11.2 seconds. It is also more fuel efficient to the tune of approximately 15 per cent* than the previous California. All these results were achieved thanks to solutions adopted on the F1 single-seaters, including a lowinertia, flat-plane crankshaft combined with innovative twin-scroll turbines to minimise throttle response times. Certain of the manufacturing phases, mostly regarding castings, also make use of the same plant and production processes employed by the Scuderia. The California T’s engine produces an enthrallingly powerful sound that becomes even more impressive as revs increase. The new model also boasts true sports car dynamics, thanks to lower steering wheel activity and quicker steering courtesy of a new steering box and new suspension set-up. New springs and latest-generation Magnaride dampers (now more than 50 per cent faster), combined with body motion accelerometers, reduce roll and pitch to deliver more precise handling whilst still guaranteeing an incredibly comfortable ride. Meticulous and in-depth design work has retained the dimensions of the previous model yet endowed the California T with a whole new personality. The car’s proportions were penned by the Ferrari Styling Centre in collaboration with Pininfarina, and are very much in line with Ferrari’s front-engined ethos. The California T’s cabin exudes a sense of warmth and craftsmanship, and was designed to be as ergonomic as possible, with

luxurious semi-aniline leather trim. The space onboard is flexible too, and owners can make the most efficient use of its generous boot capacity even with the top down, thanks to the communication between the luggage compartment and rear seats. The Human-Machine Interface encompasses the Ferrari steering wheel with integrated controls while the Turbo Performance Engineer (TPE) takes pride of place between the two air vents at the centre of dash. This is a sophisticated instrument with a touch-sensitive scroll surround and a digital display that provides indications on making the most efficient use of the new engine’s performance. The California T also has a new infotainment system with a large, extremely intuitive 6.5” display and a choice of both button and touchscreen controls. The California T of today is underscored by excellence, heritage, prestige and track DNA. Continuously pushing the limits of technological innovation in every engineering area, Ferrari has and always has been the leader in classic design and superior performance. The company bridges the gap between the unique heritage of Enzo and the Prancing Horse, which has come to encapsulate Italian joie de vivre at its most essential, and the new world of cultural and technological hegemony. Ferrari’s deluxe approach to bespoke automotive design, razor-sharp responsiveness, blistering performance, superbly powerful acceleration at all speeds and an exhilarating soundtrack known to all Ferraris, is at the heart of the California T. This is the Ferrari DNA. california-t.ferrari.com

26 To own a Ferrari was the dream of many, but a possibility for only a few 27 The cabin exudes warmth and craftsmanship, with luxurious semi-aniline leather trim 28 California 250 A legacy of elegance, with a touch of true outdoor sportiness: elements placed within a design context that is not just contemporary, but is pretty advanced

176

Must Have

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

BMW Landspeeder, Revival Cycles Based on a remodel of the record breaking 1928 BMW R37 Racer driven by Ernst Henne, Revival Cycles have created the BMW Landspeeder, rebuilt from detached pieces. A modern interpretation of a legendary racing bike, the model features an airhead engine set lower than the original, and in a frame built from flat-cut steel instead of tubing. Finally, thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the stainless steel exhaust system with browned pipes and straight spokes in the front and solid wheel cover in the rear. Although not road worthy for now, the BMW Landspeeder will be exhibited in April 2016 at the Handbuilt Motorcycle Show in Austin, Texas. revivalcycles.com/pages/revival-henne-bmw-landspeeder

Astro Time Automatic, Designer Shaik Designer Shaik is the World’s most unique and luxurious brand of Arabia. After the overwhelming response to the Astro Duo Quartz collection, the Desert Prince now unveils the Astro Time Automatic Gold Collection – a first for the Middle East. Comprising of many features from a power reserve of over 40 hours, a unique sun and moon display, and an underwater capability of 100m; this exquisite timepiece is an example of timeless aesthetics with an essence of passion, performance, and precision. The new collection is available with an array of interchangeable coloured leather, rubber and metal straps, precious and semi precious stones. Also available is the Designer Shaik watch winder. orders@shaik.net

Cross Training Sneakers, Lanvin Real elegance is all about the details; everything that creates a man’s look and everything that allows him to express himself as he chooses. Presented a few seasons ago in Lucas Ossendrijver’s menswear collections for Lanvin, the brand’s Cross Training Sneakers are no exception. Their elegance is casual and refined, a concept dear to the fashion house, and one that provides sportswear with an element of nobility. The sneakers are available in a patchwork of luxurious materials with chic, graphic patterns: lambskin printed with star fragments, a zebra jacquard cotton mix, technical fabric with “neo leopard” print, a shagreen-style calfskin or a laminated grain calfskin. The stylish footwear is an example of luxury in its purest state. store.lanvin.com/ae/men/sneakers

178

Must Have

Palladium ME05 Earphones, Master & Dynamic Recently named “top pick for earphones of 2015” by WIRED, the ME05 Earphones are now offered in a unique new Palladium chrome colour, while retaining the same renowned first class audio capabilities. The earphones are machined from solid brass then coated with palladium, a rare and durable precious metal. They incorporate sophisticated ergonomic elements and elegant details, including laser etching and mirrored accents that reflect light. The combination of form and function in the ME05s achieves a stellar, dynamic sound profile courtesy of custom 8mm titanium drivers, which are housed in an elegant body capable of standing up to the rigors of everyday use. www.masterdynamic.com/products/me05-earphones

The Man Safe, Brown Safe The Man Safe series of luxury burglary safes are designed and created specifically for the needs of the modern man and watch enthusiast, who demands the finest protection and storage for their timepieces and other valuables. All models feature high-gloss exterior finishes, an electronic push-button lock or fingerprint-reading entry, automatic watch winder panels, and interiors adorned in either exotic hardwood or stainless steel with carbon fibre accents. The Man Safe 1418 is Brown Safe’s smallest luxury safe offering, making it the ideal solution for a convenient high-security safe in areas where space is at a premium. www.brownsafe.com

Bracelets, Durrah Jewellery IDurrah Jewellery has launched a new selection of bracelets, designed to be worn stacked on the wrist. Crafted by Artisans in Italy in the brand’s distinctive style, they are made of gold and rhodium plated sterling silver and are currently available in three attractive finishes - Woven, Spring and Silk in the four signature tones of Gold, Rose, Silver and Black. Gold to improve self-confidence, creativity and abundance. Rose to promote love, sensuality and peace. Silver to encourage hope, positive energy and kindness. Black to raise energy levels, rejuvenation and regeneration. The magnetic closure on the piece make them extremely comfortable and wearable while boasting metallurgic benefits. www.durrahjewellery.com

Signature Touch, Vertu New Signature Touch is the latest, high-performance smartphone from Vertu, the English manufacturer of luxury mobile phones. New Signature Touch balances high performance technology, dedicated services and peerless build quality and materials and boasts Vertu’s most vibrant display ever. This clarity of image is complemented by the extraordinary sound experience featuring Dolby Digital Plus virtual surround sound. Encased in handcrafted, fine leather and grade 5 titanium, it is Vertu’s highest ever technical performance smartphone. Android 5.1 Lollipop promises improved speed and clarity and Vertu’s full portfolio of services, which comprise Dedicated Concierge as well as Vertu LIFE and Vertu CERTAINTY packages ensure a seamless user experience. www.vertu.com/sk/en/collections/signature-touch

Folding Bike, MINI Since its launch in 1959, MINI continues to redefine small car design. A car of substance in abundance, it was the first small car to achieve genuine global success. A trendsetter in its own right, the brand also contains a premium selection of lifestyle products, such as the MINI Folding Bike in Lime. With its aluminium frame, 20-inch wheels and eight gears, this folding bike is fast and agile. It has the ability to fold with just a few simple moves, making it perfect to store in the boot of a car or even under a desk. shop.bmwgroup.com/

180

Must Have

Silver Men Collection, Salvatore Ferragamo Salvatore Ferragamo has presented a new line of jewels composed of silver pendants, bracelets, rings and cufflinks dedicated to the male universe. Gourmette bracelets feature Salvatore Ferragamo’s engraved logo and come in styles with or without leather and pendants. Rings and cufflinks are decorated with the Salvatore Ferragamo famous trademark Gancino. Each piece is handcrafted by skilled Italian silversmiths, and the collection is available in two finishes: silver or silver with black ruthenium. The Silver Men Collection consists of essential, glamorous, decorative and modern must have jewels that keep a strong link with the Maison’s heritage. www.ferragamo.com/shop/en/uk/men/jewellery

Sherman, MB&F Conceived and developed by MB&F and engineered and crafted by L’Epée 1839 – Switzerland’s only specialised high-end clock manufacture – Sherman is the result of Maximilian Büsser’s ongoing quest to revisit his childhood, during which he hankered for a robot friend. Sherman’s mechanics are based on a L’Epée 1839 in-line eight-day movement, which ensures that the friendly tank- treaded table clock can display the correct time on his chest for more than a week before requiring rewinding. The movement plates and bridges of the clock also make up the skeleton and body of the robot. www.mbandf.com/machines/performance-art/sherman

+973 77033333

lavazzabahrain

182

Must Have

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

Ceramica Oblonge Vases, Formworks Art Gallery With a collection of luxury interior dĂŠcor and matchless jewellery comes the Formworks Art Gallery. Catering to an audience that spans the world over, Formworks is home to all things luxury, introducing artworks that bring classic designs with a modern touch, to add grandeur to any room. Blue and White ceramic dates back to 14th century Greece. The Ceramica Oblonge vases from Formworks showcase a popular look that speaks of Grecian beauty and charm, and celebrate traditional art with timeless style. With a vast array of internationally acquired home dĂŠcor, pieces from The Formworks Art Gallery are genuine artefacts as well as stunning pieces of fine craftsmanship. 04 3855700

Bejewelled Serpenti Forever Bag, Bulgari The limited edition Bejewelled Serpenti Forever bag in python skin is the crown jewel of the Bulgari Spring Summer 2016 accessories collection. Like a detailed and awe-inspiring painting, the bag is covered with a design inspired by a necklace from 1968 from Bulgari’s High Jewellery collection. The re-interpretations of this rich composition are screen-printed onto the bag in a precious python skin. Adding a signature touch is the enamel snakehead clasp in black and white whose eyes twinkle with lapis lazuli. Only 68 pieces of the limited edition bags have been made, each requiring three months to craft. www.bulgari.com/en-us/products.html

Classic Metallic Edge Bracelet, Balenciaga The house synonymous with luxury leather, Balenciaga has released an exclusive Holiday Collection Classic Metallic Edge Bracelet, crafted from shiny-grained Goatskin and embellished with metallic edge hardware. Part of an exclusive capsule collection, the bracelet is a wraparound style in bright red with gold metallic edges and self-finish studs. Coming in two sizes – small or medium – it also features a stylish gold buckle closure and is an extremely wearable limited edition piece, made in Italy. www.balenciaga.com/us/metallic-edge-bracelet_cod46431743ah.html

Ashley Sunglasses, LOEWE Credited as one of the first ever luxury houses, LOEWE are a Spanish heritage brand with a sartorial history that dates back to 1946. With an emphasis on development, their Spring Summer 2016 continues to establish the codes that define the LOEWE woman today. The collection is concise yet highly articulated and tension pervades, as hard meets soft and synthetics confront rawness to break the classic efficiency of a total look. The Ashley Mirror Sunglasses turn normalcy to extraordinary with the unique shape accentuated by an emphasised bridge, and bright mirror reflective lenses. www.loewe.com/international_en/sunglasses.html

184

Must Have

Time Goes By, Boca do Lobo When is a piece of design a piece of art? Boca do Lobo’s work Time Goes By, which consists of a carved digital clock made from mahogany, blurs the lines between art and design, highlighting a unique design object with a whiff of functionalism. A blend of enchanting fantasy and potent reality, the clock pendulum is composed by stainless steel and found inside a tempered glass box. The hand carved mahogany base is covered in silver leaf and finished with a combination of high gloss amethyst and smoked black translucent varnish. www.bocadolobo.com/en/limited-edition/ seating-others/time-goes-by

Fur & Leather Aviator Keychain, MICHAEL Michael Kors Launched on February 14 2016, Michael Kors presents “Love Story,” a digital gift guide highlighting products to love during this key gifting time period. The assortment includes MICHAEL Michael Kors small leather goods, such as the Fur & Leather Aviator Keychain. This standout keychain is a glamorous good luck charm made from fur and Saffiano leather. Its plush fur puff gives it a luxe touch, while the leather aviator shape is an ode to Michael’s signature sunglasses. Perfect for clipping onto a handbag for a whimsical, textured twist. www.michaelkors.com

I Am Not Like Other Girls, Marc by Marc Jacobs In a collaboration with Disney, Marc by Marc Jacobs has launched ‘I Am Not Like Other Girls’, a capsule collection inspired by Alice in Wonderland, one of the world’s most beloved fairy tales. The capsule includes sunglasses, totes, backpacks, iPhone cases, sweatshirts and other products designed as an inventive interpretation of the Disney classic film and celebrating the quest for individuality. The collection is a mix of archival material and modern, original elements, creating Marc by Marc Jacobs’ version of Wonderland. www.marcjacobs.com/women/featured

Journey, Amouage Amouage has extended its Bath & Body Collection to include ‘Journey’ for woman, an enigmatic fragrance depicting an enchanting journey for the quiet, observing traveller. Inspired by a love of Shanghai Deco and a passion for Chinese cinema, Journey for Woman has floral, fruity, and leather notes. Presented in red packaging with luxurious gold tones, the collection comprises a full complement of products including bath and shower gel, soaps, body lotion, hand cream and ultra-rich body cream. Formulated by renowned French experts, the range is perfumed with the highest concentration of fragrance possible, and harmoniously layer and nourish the skin with the finest of ingredients. www.amouage.com/fragrance/journey-woman.html

186

Must Have

Ottoman Clutch Bag, Paule Ka New from French label Paule Ka is the Ottoman Clutch Bag, as part of the brand’s Spring Summer Accessories collection. Available in neutral Mastic or Poudre, Geranium or Black, the clutch features a matching stylistic bow, which has been laser cut with sharp contours. An optional gold chain inside the bag converts it from a clutch to shoulder bag, depending on the mood or occasion, and an internal pocket and easy to use snap fastening makes for luxurious usability. Strictly chic and feminine with minimalist lines and modern flair, the clutch is a nod to the French label’s known and adored aesthetic. pauleka.com/eu/ottoman-clutch-bag-616e181-pm11.html

The [AL] Project, Hemmerle The [AL] Project from Hemmerle is a new project featuring a series of jewels that explore the unique properties of aluminium through innovative design and exquisite craftsmanship. Through a process of anodizing, Hemmerle created aluminium in a variety of hues that complement the natural colours of the gemstones. Consisting of over 15 pairs of earrings and a brooch, these one-of-a-kind pieces are inspired by eclectic themes such as nature, minimalism and geometry. Intricately crafted in aluminium and paired with gemstones such as diamonds, sapphires, aquamarines and garnets, the creations reflect Hemmerle’s strong visual identity. www.hemmerle.com

FOR RESERVATION

(+973) 17 63 63 63 (+973) 17 63 63 91

e-mail: H6722-TH@sofitel.com

www.sofitel.com

SOFITEL BAHRAIN ZALLAQ THALASSA SEA & SPA 105 Zallaq Highway, Building 2015, Block 1055 Zallaq PO Box 5554 Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain

188

Book Review

Renowned UAE-based chef and writer Dima Al Sharif has unveiled her much-anticipated first cookbook, titled Plated Heirlooms. The 500-page book explores Dima’s native Falasteen (Palestine) and its rich culinary history through generations of Palestinian cooking.

Palestine on a plate

hef Dima Al Sharif, who grew up as part of the Palestinian diaspora in Jordan, has been surrounded by quality food her whole life. Her family owned the first and largest citrus farms in Jordan and so Dima learned from a very young age the importance of quality ingredients. She credits her mother and grandmothers for making her understand that quality food is an essential ingredient to good living. But it was a life lesson that didn’t truly resonate with Dima until she became a mother herself, and while residing in a foreign country, she realised just how much she missed her family’s home-cooked meals. Dima later channelled this passion into a career as a professional chef, but what she loved most was how,

through food and the sharing of family recipes, she felt truly connected to her Palestinian heritage. “For me food is an expression of culture and is intrinsically influenced by an appreciation of the land from which it was yielded. Palestine is such a fertile country with a rich and complex history, and its culinary culture reflects this. Food is respected, nothing is wasted and you can tell from which region a family comes by the flavour profile of its musakhan,” says Dima Al Sharif. Dima spent three years researching and drafting the book, drawing on her childhood memories spent in the kitchens of her grandmother and mother, and sitting with family members, extended family, friends and

For me food is an expression of culture and is intrinsically influenced by an appreciation of the land from which it was yielded

190

Book Review

industry colleagues to develop the authentic Palestinian recipes. More than 250 recipes feature in the book, and have all been tested by Dima for technical accuracy. Each recipe is also inspired by familial stories that weave a rich tapestry of the history, diverse geography and culture of Falasteen (Palestine). All of the stories have been diligently fact checked and referenced by Dima. In eight chapters Dima explores traditional Palestinian cuisine, its cooking techniques, as well as some of the country’s native ingredients. There is a section devoted to the olive tree and its fruits, while the book’s most extensive chapter looks at the tradition of mooneh. The Arabic word for pantry, mooneh describes the tradition of pickling and preserving seasonal foods for the months when they are not available, or as was often the case in Palestine, to ensure an available food

supply during uncertain times. “Palestinian cuisine is the least known of all the Middle Eastern cuisines. It has suffered from decades of occupation and the diaspora, the uprooting of olive trees and the mass destruction of farms. Yet, Palestinian cuisine, culture and community will always live on in the hearts of their people, wherever they are. Ultimately, food grows from the community and culture exists as plated heirlooms,” Al Sharif adds. Plated Heirlooms is available in all good bookstores across the UAE in February 2016, or visit Dima’s stand every Friday at The Farmers’ Market on The Terrace, Bay Avenue, Business Bay. www.dimasharif.com/p/plated-heirlooms-cookbookby-dima-sharif.html

03 02

01 Image of the new book by Dima Al Sharif 02 Rose and Cardamon Infused Milk Pudding 03 Roasted Vegetable Salad 04 Lamb Kofta and Potato in Tahinai Sauce

192

Final Pearl

Formula One

he much-anticipated 2016 Formula One Bahrain Grand Prix will take place from April 1st-3rd with eleven teams battling for a place on the podium. Bahrain’s Sakhir Track will host its third night race and upholds its status as the only desert Formula One track amongst the 21 races worldwide. Sakir will also host the 4th race of the season before Formula One heads to Europe and Barcelona in Spain for to open the European championship. The event boasts a great variety of entertainment with networking and indulging opportunities and the location offers world-class luxury and 5 star hotels such as the Ritz-Carlton Hotel Bahrain. As the ‘Home of Motorsports in the Middle East’, the Bahrain International Circuit is an exciting venue for all kinds of racing championships, non-competitive racing and vehicle testing. It is also a unique and prestigious venue for corporate events, conferences and exhibitions. The Bahrain International Circuit offers immense opportunities to promote and develop current and prospective corporate ventures through its excellent

infrastructure and advanced facilities. All three-day ticket holders will be able to enjoy exclusive activities with their passes, such as a Pit Lane Walk on the Thursday afternoon of the Grand Prix. Off the tarmac, visitors to the Formula One can enjoy the warm, family friendly atmosphere and a wide variety of fun, engaging entertainment activities. There will be colourful stage performances, roaming acts, carnival rides and games, children’s activities and so much more. Bahrain International Circuit has lined up a pair of captivating theatre shows as part of the weekend’s colourful off-track entertainment at the 2016 Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix. SIRO-A from Japan and Ticket to Bollywood from India are the two internationally renowned productions. The shows will be held at a specially erected tent in BIC’s F1 Village vending area. There will be three performances a day for each production. Entrance will be on a first-come, first-served basis. www.bahraingp.com/-formula-one-bahrain-gp-.html

F O U N D I N G M E M B E R O F T H E Q U A L I T Y F L E U R I E R C E R T I F I CAT I O N A N D PA R T N E R O F T H E F O N DAT I O N D E L A H A U T E H O R L O G E R I E

SWISS MADE

COLLECTION FLEURIER 7 - DAY P OW E R R E S E RV E H A N D - WO U N D M OV E M E N T. AVA I L A B L E I N S TA I N L E S S S T E E L OR IN 18K RED GOLD W W W. B OV E T. C O M