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SEPTEMBER & OCTOBER 2021 · ISSUE 76

D E C O R AT I O N | P R O P E R T Y | C U LT U R E | T R A V E L | H E A LT H | G A S T R O N O M Y | E V E N T S | A R T | A R C H I T E C T U R E

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I SS U E 76 S E PT E M B E R / O CTO B E R 202 1

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home &lifestyle M A G A Z I N E

CO N T E N TS S E PT E M B E R- O CTO B E R 2021

D É CO R & D E S I G N 10

Outdoor Living: natural comfort

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Flooring and Rugs: cosiness underfoot

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Walls: artistic inspiration

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Dining In: versatile elegance

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Home Office: stylish practicality

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Smart Offices: integrated bespoke projects

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Living Rooms: classic chic

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Fabrics & Curtains: aesthetic transformation

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Tableware: creative fun

104 Bathrooms: inviting relaxation 112 Bedrooms: superlative sleep 118 Bedside Lighting: seamless illumination 122 Kitchens: timeless sophistication 134 Architecture News: changing design world 136 Property Showcase: futuristic grandeur 138 Design Showcase: serene living spaces 142 Construction News: new building heights 144 Gardens: changing seasons

L I F E ST Y L E & L E IS U R E 148 Gourmet Recipes: roasted duck and berry glacê 150 Wine Notes: drinks for techies 152 Hotels & Getaways: playful luxury in Sotogrande 154 Open Sea: hybrid giga yacht from Benetti 156 Art & Culture: pointillism techniques 160 Health by Rachel Garrod: coping with long COVID 161 Medical Minutes: visionary breakthroughs

N E WS & E V E N TS 162 Events: presentations and celebrations 166 Bulletin of companies, organisations and people in the headlines 170 The Final Word: expert advice for foreign residents

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Photo Credit: Salone del Mobile

EDITORIAL With so much business communication being conducted online over the past year and a half, it has been harder than normal to gauge market trends and the general state of the décor and design industry. In recent months, the situation has evolved favourably, and professionals and companies have restored their “presential” operations, but there still remains uncertainty about the ultimate effects of the pandemic.

The organisers of the (normally) twice-yearly Maison&Objet in Paris have been among those keen to determine the sector’s current mindset, and to that end they decided to conduct a survey among 1,152 industry professionals based both in France and overseas, including brands, buyers and retailers.

The aim, they said, as “the real-world version of the trade fair is about to make its much-awaited return”, was to determine how the market had fared since January 2020, what industry professionals are hoping to achieve when they once again are able to get together, and how the way they approach their businesses has changed.

“In terms of revenue,” they found, ”65 per cent of those surveyed confirmed their outlook for the next four months was positive or extremely positive, while 20 per cent are considering expanding their teams and creating new jobs before the year is out.”

As for the impact of the pandemic, “the vast majority of those surveyed say it has served as a catalyst for development or that they have found ways of coping to ensure their business survives.

“One of the major shifts noted by independent and big-name retailers alike has been the need to develop expertise that was previously lacking at times, such as setting up an efficient online store aligned with the in-store range and stocks.

“It has now become clear that having a social media presence – and notably an Instagram account – and setting up an online store is one of the most crucial growth levers retailers can adopt.”

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And finally... “as is the case across all consumer sectors, specifiers and brands have noted keen interest among clients for more ethical, locally made products – in other words those with a lower carbon footprint. Both customers and interior designers are increasingly basing their buying decisions on the aforementioned criteria, meaning that brands must rise to the challenge of offering suitably ethical products while nonetheless remaining reasonably priced.”

With the latter in mind, the theme for Maison&Objet (from 9 to 13 September) is “Desirable Development”, with the aim of “shining a light on consumer appetite for all things ethical and brands’ new-found solutions”.

Also returning to action in September is the Salone del Mobile in Milan. Open to both trade members and the general public from 5 to 10 September (although registration is online only), the special event is being promoted as “Supersalone”, with a focus on “safety, design transversality and green commitment”.

According to new president Maria Porro, “It’s crucial to go back to meeting each other, conduct relationships and see the products that our companies have carried on creating.”

Meanwhile, another city in the home décor spotlight in September is Madrid.

Running from 11 to 15 September, and exclusively for professionals, the Intergift trade fair showcases new trends in decoration and interior decorating, as well as innovative ideas for gift items. This year, organisers are set to welcome an impressive 836 national and international companies and brands from 30 countries.

And then to the UK, where the London Design Festival returns for its 19th edition from 18 to 26 September. Organisers say the festival “will once again transform the capital’s landmarks, neighbourhoods and cultural institutions with a series of outdoor installations, exhibitions and special events that will bring people together as London continues to reopen”.

OUTDOOR LIVING ...

OUTDOOR L VERS No matter what size area you have as your outdoor space, it is still a key part of your home and should receive just as much consideration, in terms of design, as what you give to the rooms inside. We all know that investing in good-quality outdoor furniture pays-off in the long run, as it is usually made from more durable products that will last longer in harsh weather conditions. The ideal lounge area should have comfortable seating (modular style is always useful to fit everything perfectly into the space available), with tables at easy reaching distance to rest personal objects such as a glass or a book. A shaded area is imperative so that you can enjoy the outdoors at any time of the day, especially as the summers (and even post-summer periods) are getting hotter. If you have stone underfoot, consider a high quality outdoor rug that brings the indoor feeling outside, as well as helping to absorb heat from sun-beaten stone. Finally, outdoor lighting offers a welcoming glow so you can while away the evenings enjoying the natural surroundings in your garden.

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Diabla Outdoor’s 356 collection has an aerodynamic look, inspired by the first Porsche 356 cars from the 1950s.

Made from 100 per cent recyclable polyethylene, it is ergonomic and highly durable. Diabla is available through Siesta Interior Design in Centro Plaza in Nueva Andalucía (www.siestainteriordesign.com).

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OUTDOOR LIVING ...

Right The Hera Indonesian hand-carved daybed is made from old recycled teak. It is highly versatile, as it can be used as a sunbed, indoor sofa or even a bed for sleeping at night.

Available from Sybartum on the Mijas Road (www.sybartum.com).

Below Right For a natural boho look, North By North offer a wide variety of bamboo furniture, designed in Denmark and handmade in Vietnam.

The cushion cover is UV and dirt resistant making it highly durable. North By North is available from Woodstock, situated in Pueblo Nuevo de Guadiaro (www.northbynorth.es).

Below The Caribe outdoor chaise longue from Roberti Rattan is both glamorous and unique in its shape, offering superb ergonomic comfort. Roberti Rattan is available from Diana Dominique in Pol. Ind. Nueva Campana 54 in Nueva Andalucía (www.dianadominque.com) and Heidi Gubbins in Urb. Marbella Real on the Golden Mile (www.heidigubbins.com).

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OUTDOOR LIVING ...

Above Tribù’s modular Senja sofa is available as a one, two or three-seater with either low or high arms. It comes with an integrated table top, side table or slim console table, with a top in either teak or glazed lava stone. It is shown here with the Nomad easy chair, which has cushions that cocoon the body, folding over the armrests and moulding into the broad curve of the backrest.

Designer Monica Armani used what she calls “noble teak wood” for its warmth, smoothness and strength. Tribù is available through Outdoor Concepts at the top of the Boulevard in San Pedro de Alcántara (www.outdoorconcepts.es) and Siesta Interior Design in C. Plaza in Nueva Andalucía (www.siestainteriordesign.com).

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Opposite Page Top The Dune collection from Gloster combines soft lines with a bohemian chic outdoor lounge set of knitted fabrics designed by Sebastian Herkner. Gloster is available from Outdoor Concepts at the top of the Boulevard in San Pedro de Alcántara (www.outdoorconcepts.es), High End Homes in Puerto Banús (www.high-endhomes. com) and Metamorfoza in C. de Negocios Oasis on Marbella’s Golden Mile (www.metamorfoza.es).

Bottom The Endless modular lounge collection from 4 Seasons Outdoor allows a number of seating possibilities to fit the space available.

The frame is made from high-quality teak and aluminium features, and there is a handy ledge to the side of the seats to rest objects. Available from De Tropen on the Autovía del Mediterráneo A7, Km. 272, Vélez-Málaga, or you can buy online at www.detropen.es.

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OUTDOOR LIVING ...

Fill Up Club offers luxury inflatable outdoor furniture in wonderful contemporary colours for your garden or swimming pool. Their beautifully designed loungers are made from high-quality Sunbrella fabrics which float on water and are eco-friendly and easily manoeuvrable.

The material is highly durable, withstanding extreme temperatures and UV rays. Available from Metamaforza in C. de Negocios Oasis on Marbella’s Golden Mile (www.metamorfoza.es).

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OUTDOOR LIVING ...

Designed by Paola Navone, Ethimo’s Rafael collection has a strong brushed teak frame with textured cushions in a range of interesting colours.

Ethimo is available from Outdoor Concepts at the top of the Boulevard in San Pedro de Alcántara (www.outdoorconcepts.es) and through Siesta Interior Design in C. Plaza in Nueva Andalucía (www.siestainteriordesign.com).

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OUTDOOR LIVING ...

Manutti’s Solid armchair is made from natural teak and created in an elegant form. It is shown here with their Touch poufs and two-seater San sofa, which features a design that was inspired by Japanese art (www.manutti.com).

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OUTDOOR LIVING ...

Above Nardi’s playful fibreglass resin Net chairs come in a range of fun colours that you can mixand-match. They are shown here with the Rio extendable table, which is UV-treated with a DurelTop slatted tabletop and coated aluminium frame. Available directly from De Tropen on the Autovía del Mediterráneo A7, Km. 272, VélezMálaga, or you can buy online at www.detropen.es.

Opposite Page Top Left The Joenfa Muses is an outdoor dining chair made from polyethylene UV-resistant wicker and an electrostatic powder coating finish with an aluminium frame. Available directly from De Tropen on the Autovía del Mediterráneo A7, Km. 272, Vélez-Málaga, or you can buy online at www.detropen.es.

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Top Right Talenti’s Milo collection from their Premium range features a contemporary yet timeless design. The table has an aluminium frame and a ceramic top that can be extended up to 320 centimetres using an extra ceramic panel. The frame of this stackable dining chair is made from powder-coated aluminium with a textilene seat which is highly-resistant to UV rays and wear-and-tear. Available from BoConcept Plus Store on the Mijas Road and in C. de Negocios Oasis in Marbella (www.plusstore.es), Outdoor Concepts at the top of the Boulevard in San Pedro de Alcántara (www.outdoorconcepts. es) and De Tropen on the Autovía del Mediterráneo A7, Km 272, Vélez-Málaga, or you can buy online at www.detropen.es. Talenti is also available through Gonzalez Casaus in

Centro Comercial Camoján Corner in Marbella (www.gonzalezcasaus.com) and High End Homes in Puerto Banús (www.high-endhomes.com).

Bottom Designed by the Cane-line design team, the Ocean chair combines contemporary design with traditional craftsmanship, featuring Caneline Soft Rope around a lightweight aluminium frame with soft cushioning. The teak Flip folding table is a new take on the classic folding tables and is ideal when there is limited space and storage area. Cane-line is available from BoConcept Plus Store on the Mijas Road and in C. de Negocios Oasis in Marbella (www.plusstore.es).

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OUTDOOR LIVING ...

The Paralel collection from Point combines natural teak wood with rope constructed to the highest standards, offering a contemporary chic look that will stand the test of time. Point is available from Outdoor Concepts at the top of the Boulevard in San Pedro de Alcántara (www.outdoorconcepts.es).

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OUTDOOR LIVING ...

An articulated pergola or arm awning from Markilux is highly durable and extremely resistant to harsh weather conditions, thanks to high-quality manufacturing and the materials chosen to create this stylish product.

Accessories such as LED lighting and powerful heaters are a great way to transform the space below the awning into a cosy and relaxing area. Available from Arte del Lusso in San Pedro de Alcántara (www.artedellusso.es).

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OUTDOOR LIVING ...

Top The Eclipsum umbrella from Umbrosa is extremely durable, coping with wind speeds of up to 50 kilometres an hour. It comes in a wide range of attractive colours and can rotate 360 degrees to suit shade requirements at any time of the day. Umbrosa is available from Metamaforza in Centro de Negocios Oasis on Marbella’s Golden Mile (www.metamorfoza.es) and Outdoor Concepts at the top of the Boulevard in San Pedro de Alcántara (www.outdoorconcepts.es).

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Above Shadesails are an excellent way to add an eye-catching yet practical installation to your outdoor living space at great value. You can design your shadesail in a shape that suits your exact shade requirements and they come in various colours. Available from The Shade Sail Company in Calahonda (www.theshadesailcompany.com).

Photo by: Mark Rood

OUTDOOR LIVING ...

Unopiù has launched a new version of the pergola Shibuya, designed by Ferruccio Laviani. Its neat and cuttingedge design fits perfectly into a contemporary home. Unopiù is available from Outdoor Concepts at the top of the Boulevard in San Pedro de Alcántara (www.outdoorconcepts.es).

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OUTDOOR LIVING ...

The new Babila circular wall sconce from Marset is made of polished stainless steel which reflects its surroundings like a mirror-effect. Whether it is switched on or off, the design of this lamp is eye-catching. It comes in two sizes and is also available in matt white or brown varnished aluminium. The Babila emits a soft, blurred illumination that contrasts with the lamp’s sharp metal finish. Marset is available from Ges Lighting in C/ Uranio in Pol. Ind. La Ermita in Marbella (www.grupoelectrostocks.com) and BoConcept Plus Store on the Mijas Road and in C. de Negocios Oasis in Marbella (www.plusstore.es), and through Siesta Interior Design Design in Centro Comercial Plaza in Nueva Andalucía (www.siestainteriordesign.com).

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Above Left The Syphasera outdoor lamp from Cattelani & Smith looks like long grass. It can be staked directly into soft ground, lighting up natural vegetation with its soft LED illumination. Available from Ges Lighting in C/ Uranio in Pol. Ind. La Ermita in Marbella (www.grupoelectrostocks.com).

Above The Others anthropomorphic handwoven lantern collection from Dedon is not only practical but also crosses over into decorative art. It is shown here with Dedon’s Dala club chair and Brixx modular sofa. Dedon is available from Outdoor Concepts at the top of the Boulevard in San Pedro de Alcántara (www.outdoorconcepts.es) and through Siesta Interior Design in CC. Plaza in Nueva Andalucía (www. siestainteriordesign.com), Gonzalez Casaus in CC Camoján Corner in Marbella (www.gonzalezcasaus.com) and Alison Bethell-Collins Interior Design in Avda. del Mediterráneo, San Pedro de Alcántara (www.alisonbethellcollins.com).

Left The outdoor Sky lamp from Watt & Weke is like a fluffy cloud hovering in your garden. Available from Diana Dominique in Pol. Ind. Nueva Campana 54 in Nueva Andalucía (www.dianadominque.com).

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OUTDOOR LIVING ...

Vondom’s Biophilia collection houses LED lighting inside, offering not only stylish furniture for your garden but also beautiful, soft illumination. Vondom is available through Outdoor Concepts at the top of the Boulevard in San Pedro de Alcántara (www.outdoorconcepts.es) and Alison Bethell-Collins Interior Design in Avda. del Mediterráneo, San Pedro de Alcántara (www.alisonbethellcollins.com).

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OUTDOOR LIVING ...

RUGS FOR YOUR O U T D O O R S PAC E

Outdoor rugs offer softness underfoot and give spaces a more welcoming feel.

Outdoor areas such patios and terraces are usually heavy on concrete and stone, which is where a simple rug can immediately add cosiness. Outdoor rugs are made of weather-resistant materials so not only are they ideal for outside areas but they can also be used as hard-wearing rugs for high-traffic areas inside the home. Here are some ideas…

The Molly collection from Pappelina comes in an array of fun colours to brighten up your outdoor living space. Available through Siesta Interior Design in C. Plaza in Nueva Andalucía (www.siestainteriordesign.com).

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OUTDOOR LIVING ...

Above The Pebblestone version from Limited Edition’s Poolside collection is a rug made of recycled vinyl yarns with traditional braiding and a simple graphical pattern for a timeless look.

Limited Edition is available through Alison Bethell-Collins Interior Design in Avda. del Mediterráneo, San Pedro de Alcántara (www.alisonbethellcollins.com).

Left The Carpretty Petit outdoor rug in Royal Blue is anti-static, easy to clean, and soft but highly durable in harsh weather conditions, retaining its rich colours for years to come. Fatboy is available from BoConcept Plus Store on the Mijas Road and in C. de Negocios Oasis in Marbella (www.plusstore.es), Siesta Interior Design in C. Plaza in Nueva Andalucía (www. siestainteriordesign.com) and De Tropen on the Autovía del Mediterráneo A7, Km. 272, Vélez-Málaga, or you can buy online at (www.detropen.es).

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F LO O R S . . .

FABULOUS FLOORS Rugs are great for reducing noise if a room is echoey.

They also offer warmth and cosiness underfoot and, if the design is bold, they can really make a statement – bringing a striking artistic focus to the room.

Gan’s Degrade rug collection is the latest contribution by Patricia Urquiola to their hand-knotted rugs, delighting in colour and tones. Gan is available through Siesta Interior Design in C. Plaza in Nueva Andalucía (www.siestainteriordesign.com).

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Top Isabella Hamann and Markus Hilzinger brought out a collection of stunning carpets for JAB’s Urban Jungle range. The Spray and Love version, shown here, is just one of seven designs created by the interior designer-architect duo. JAB is available through Cortidea on the Mijas Road and in Urb. Marbella Real (www.cortidea.es), Heidi Gubbins in Urb. Marbella Real on the Golden Mile (www.heidigubbins.com) and Arte del Lusso in San Pedro de Alcántara (www.artedellusso.es).

Above Rug Society have brought the current trend in Terrazzo design to their latest collection. It is hand-tufted and comes in various sizes (www.rugsociety.eu).

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F LO O R S . . .

The MDV Collection by Marco de Vincenzo is a new range of handwoven rugs by cc-tapis that transforms the lurex textile, which Marco de Vincenzo is famous for, into a stunning artisanal addition for the home. Available through Heidi Gubbins in Urb. Marbella Real on the Golden Mile (www.heidigubbins.com).

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F LO O R S . . .

A LT E R N AT I V E F LO O R I N G I D E AS

Top Pergo’s Nordic Polar Oak is a light wooden floor, with wide and long planks, that gives the room a spacious and natural feel – and is particularly easy to maintain. Pergo is available from Todomadera in Urb. Nueva Estebbuna in Estepona (www.todomaderaestepona.com).

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Above These square porcelain tiles are from Wow Design’s Blanc et Bleum Antique Decor range, which provides a classic Mediterranean charm. The cobalt blue pigment painted onto a naturally-aged white background makes each tile unique (www.wowdesigneu.com).

WA L LS . . .

THE WO N D E R F U L WO R L D O F

WALLPAPERS IT’S AN EXCITING WORLD SURROUNDING WALLPAPERS… YOU CAN TURN A BORING WALL INTO AN ARTISTIC STATEMENT, ADD AMBIENCE OR EVEN CREATE A MUCH-NEEDED SPLASH OF COLOUR IN A NEUTRAL SPACE. WALLPAPERS ARE VERSATILE AND THE DESIGNS AND TEXTURES CAN COMPLETELY TRANSFORM A ROOM. HERE ARE SOME INSPIRATIONAL IDEAS…

Designers Guild’s Brahmi collection in their cobalt blue version is a large-scale depiction of nasturtium leaves that is hand-drawn in a bold and contemporary style. Designers Guild is available from Cortidea on the Mijas Road and in Urb. Marbella Real (www.cortidea.es), Alison Bethell-Collins Interior Design in Avenida del Mediterráneo in San Pedro de Alcántara (www.alisonbethellcollins.com) and Arte del Lusso in San Pedro de Alcántara (www.artedellusso.es), and through Gonzalez Casaus in CC Camoján Corner in Marbella (www.gonzalezcasaus.com).

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WA L LS . . .

The Flower Power collection from Élitis celebrates nature in a retro style. Élitis is available from Alison Bethell-Collins Interior Design in Avda. del Mediterráneo, San Pedro de Alcántara (www.alisonbethellcollins.com), Siesta Interior Design in C. Plaza in Nueva Andalucía (www.siestainteriordesign.com), Gonzalez Casaus in CC Camoján Corner in Marbella (www.gonzalezcasaus.com) and Heidi Gubbins in Urb. Marbella Real on the Golden Mile (www.heidigubbins.com).

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WA L LS . . .

The Neo Royal collection by Marcel Wanders was created in collaboration with BN. The range includes 14 designs in over 62 colourways, and features handpainted appointments, bold and masculine designs, deep hues and hand-painted damask (www.marcelwanders.com).

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The Vision from Mind The Gap’s Revival Mid Century Modern collection is an abstract, geometric and hand-painted design that has been re-scaled to the size of a mural wallpaper over three rolls. Mind The Gap is available from Diana Dominique in Pol. Ind. Nueva Campana 54 in Nueva Andalucía (www.dianadominque.com).

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WA L LS . . .

CE L E B R AT I N G N AT U R E A N D AU T U M N A L TO N E S

Above Margherita Leoni (Chresta) customisable wallpaper from Tecnografica

Bottom Left The Edge wallcovering from Arte’s Manila collection, shown here

makes an eye-catching statement for a feature wall (www.tecnografica.net).

in their Olive colour palette, is a vinyl wallpaper with a paper backing. It offers a serene natural ambience and it is easily washable. Arte is available

Opposite Page Top Left The Traces of Gold collection from Wallpepper provides a natural stone look with hints of gold, adding a luxurious natural feeling to a room (www.wallpepper.it).

Top Right The new Collage Japanese plant fibre collection from Mark Alexander is a stitched handwoven wallcovering which gives a unique organic look. Available through Alison Bethell-Collins Interior Design in Avda. del Mediterráneo, San Pedro de Alcántara (www.alisonbethellcollins.com),

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from Diana Dominique in Pol. Ind. Nueva Campana 54 in Nueva Andalucía (www.dianadominque.com), Arte del Lusso in San Pedro de Alcántara (www.artedellusso.es) and Alison Bethell-Collins Interior Design in Avda. del Mediterráneo, San Pedro de Alcántara (www.alisonbethellcollins.com).

Bottom Right Omexco’s Khatam’s collection features a classic design with a contemporary twist inspired by the patina walls of Venetian palaces. The

Cortidea on the Mijas Road and in Urb. Marbella Real (www.cortidea.es), Arte

collection enhances the most beautiful characteristics of cork, which is a

del Lusso in San Pedro de Alcántara (www.artedellusso.es), Heidi Gubbins in

beautiful natural and renewable material. It combines nature and precious

Urb. Marbella Real on the Golden Mile (www.heidigubbins.com) and Gonzalez

metal, bringing a shimmering elegance and soft glamour to your walls.

Casaus in CC Camoján Corner in Marbella (www.gonzalezcasaus.com).

(www.omexco.com).

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DINING IN...

T H E I M P O RTA N C E O F T H E

DINING TABLE

We are now into autumn and, believe it or not, some people are already planning for Christmas! With winter looming and COVID-19 continuing to rear its ugly head, dining in remains an attractive option for many residents in Spain, with family get-togethers mostly taking place in the safe confines of their own homes. However, these days we are also aware that the dining table doesn’t only have to be a surface for eating off – it can also serve as a working area or a place to chat with friends over a favourite tipple while putting the world to rights. In short, the dining table is a versatile piece of furniture that brings people together… so it is definitely well worth investing in.

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The design for Skagerak’s Aldus table was inspired by the popular Aldus trestle table. A carefully crafted rectangular table with rounded edges that seats six to eight people, it is shown here with their Georg Jubilee Stool, which was designed to celebrate Skagerak’s 40th anniversary – and combines Nordic sensuality with Japanese minimalism.

The stool, made from untreated oak, comes with a rare cushion made of aniline leather (from a Swedish tannery called Tärnsjö) which is attached with a braided leather strap. Skagerak is available from BoConcept Plus Store on the Mijas Road and in C. de Negocios Oasis in Marbella (www.plusstore.es) and through High End Homes in Puerto Banús (www.high-endhomes.com).

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DINING IN...

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Jean Prouvé’s EM table for Vitra comes in a range of sizes, with table tops in premium solid wood or HPL laminate and available in a choice of colours. Shown here with a selection of Vitra’s seating options, this dining area demonstrates how mixing and matching can work well aesthetically to add a playful look (www.vitra.com).

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DINING IN...

Top Left Gervasoni’s Moon table is available with a cast aluminium or white Carrara marble top, and the base in blue ceramic.

Shown here with Gervasoni’s Brick handwoven chairs (www.gervasoni1882.it).

Above The Vipp Cabin is a medium-sized round table for the dining room or kitchen, with a solid, oiled light oak base and a marble tabletop. The Cabin chair features rounded components of solid oak and a hovering veneer seat with an affixed cushion in either sand or black leather. Vipp is available from High End Homes in Puerto Banús (www.high-endhomes.com).

Left This recycled teak circular dining table, contrasting with the black rattan chairs, shows how natural wood combined with jet black is a great way to create a striking look.

Everything shown here is available from New Life Home in Avda. de Velázquez in Málaga, or shop online at www.newlifehome.es.

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DINING IN...

The solid oak Geometric dining table was designed by Alain Van Havre for Ethnicraft.

It is elegantly simple, with soft flowing lines, and goes perfectly with their DC dining chair in olive green and chocolate leather.

Ethnicraft is available from High End Homes in Puerto Banús (www.high-endhomes.com) and Siesta Interior Design in C. Plaza in Nueva Andalucía (www.siestainteriordesign.com).

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H O M E O F F I CE . . .

I NS P I R I N G WO R KS PAC E S

As more people than ever before are working from home, your designated workspace has never been so important. The more organised and well thought-out your work area is at home, the more productive you will be.

It is proven that natural light improves mood, productivity and alertness, and when sunlight is no longer available correct lighting should be used to protect your eyes from screen glare.

Adjustable seating to perfectly suit your height is imperative to avoid a bad sitting posture, and it is also advisable to choose a desk that has good storage so you can maintain a tidy workspace.

Above Jonathan Adler’s Channing desk features a Neo-Classical look. The criss-crossed polished legs and oversized acrylic knobs give the desk a touch of Hollywood glamour. It is shown here with their Caprice chair and Torino desk accessories to finish-off the look. Jonathan Adler is available through Siesta Interior Design in C. Plaza in Nueva Andalucía (www.siestainteriordesign.com).

Left Designed by Arne Jacobsen in 1955, the iconic Series 7 chair features an eye-catchingly unique shape and is the most popular design within Fritz Hansen’s chair collection. Fritz Hansen is available from BoConcept Plus Store on the Mijas Road and in C. de Negocios Oasis in Marbella (www.plusstore.es).

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H O M E O F F I CE . . .

Arper’s Kinesit chair has a fiveway swivel base on castors in polished or lacquered aluminium, and is fitted with a gas-lift mechanism for height adjustment. It includes a built-in self-tensioning weight response mechanism, a low backrest that reclines in three positions, and adjustable lumbar support. Shown here with Arper’s Nuur table (www.arper.com).

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ENLIGHTENING WO R KS PAC E S Right The Ascent table lamp from Luceplan offers a wide range of light intensities thanks to its precise axial dimmer, which is controlled by electronics installed inside the shade.

Available from Ges Lighting in Calle Uranio in Polígono Industrial La Ermita in Marbella (www.grupoelectrostocks.com).

Below Sir Kenneth Grange, a leading British industrial product designer, created the Type 75 desk lamp for Anglepoise. Developed later, and inspired by Grange’s original design, the Mini Desk Lamp by Paul SmithEdition One adds colour and playfulness to the workspace (www.anglepoise.com).

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H O M E O F F I CE . . .

Above Cattelan Italia’s Nasdaq Keramik desk is made from Marmi ceramic in different finishes with a black chrome insert. The leg comprises embossed painted steel, with the frame drawers in wood painted the same colour. Cattelan Italia is available through Gonzalez Casaus in Centro Comercial Camoján Corner in Marbella (www.gonzalezcasaus.com) and Alison Bethell-Collins Interior Design in San Pedro de Alcántara (www.alisonbethellcollins.com).

Left The Cooldot fitball is more than just a ball. Not only can you use it in a multitude of ways for exercising, but it is also useful as an alternative seat. It has an anti-bacterial and washable cover which comes in an array of colours. As there is no backrest, your back automatically supports itself in an ergonomic position.

Available online at (www.cooldot.co).

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S M A RT O F F I CE S . ..

C R E AT I N G I N T E G R A L P R OJ E CTS F O R STAT E - O F -T H E -A RT

OFFICE

E N V I RO N M E N TS

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Mabella-based intelligent home specialists Illusion are recognised as industry leaders when it comes to automation, lighting and audiovisual systems. That is, however, just one aspect of the comprehensive array of services they offer clients, albeit a key one.

Illusion have also established an excellent reputation for developing and installing fully integrated bespoke projects for homes, offices and other commercial outlets – which is, in fact, their “core” business.

One of the most recent, and impressive, was a lighting, audio-video and control project undertaken at Pure Living Properties headquarters in Hotel Puerto Romano on Marbella’s Golden Mile.

Illusion worked closely with both the Pure Living team and architecture and home décor studio Inhabit, and incorporated state-of-the-art products from their top showroom brands.

Products from leading Belgian company Delta Light were used for the architectural and technical lighting. Specifically, the desks feature suspended profiles that bathe the space evenly and generate high-quality lighting, highlighted by a high colour rendering index, as well as a warm and comfortable lighting temperature.

One other exceptionally flexible and adaptable solution incorporated into the project was a magnetic grid system that surrounds the perimeter and facilitates changes in the positioning of the light modules, while adjustable spotlights also enhance the lighting design.

Elegant Lutron Palladiom keypads are used to operate the diverse scene options created for the project. These include “Let’s talk” and “Let’s work” modes, which have been specially adapted to daily situations arising in the

offices, to ensure users’ needs are satisfied and their day-to-day working lives are fully facilitated.

The cutting-edge ambient system is further exemplified with lighting that reaches an appropriate level when meetings with clients are initiated, focusing on indirect light to create a cosy ambience. This is complemented by discreet Sonance speakers that can be lowered to a volume that accommodates comfortable conversation, with the temperature also able to be adapted to a desired level to make sure clients feel completely at ease.

Pure Living Properties and Illusion had worked together previously on other projects, forging a close and fruitful relationship. According to Pure Living CEO Javier Nieto, “We wanted to have state-of-the-art domotic home renovation as part of our new phase, because that is the present and future of living and work space. Likewise, we wanted our office to show clients, from the moment they come to us to help them buy their home, what they can expect in their new lifestyle.”

The resoundingly successful result, he said, had made Pure Living a reference point in terms of home automation, modernisation, elegance and functionality in the Marbella real estate market, as well as adding a positive element to Puente Romano’s already stunningly attractive business environment.

Illusion – Intelligent Home and Office Specialists Calle Ávila, Nº 17, Local 2, Urb. Guadalcántara, San Pedro de Alcántara (Marbella) Tel. (+34) 952 781 669 / info@e-illusion.es / www.e-illusion.es Photos by Juanan Barros HOMEANDLIFESTYLE.ES 2021

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LOUNGE LIVING When considering the design of a living room, it is always best to go for simplicity and then gradually build-up on the decoration to create a warm feel. Having lots of space to move around the furniture ensures a relaxing and well-organised aesthetic, so don’t fill the room with too many items – less is more. Good storage solutions such as a statement cabinet or a coffee table with underneath storage to keep surfaces clear are great ways to maintain the room uncluttered. A good-quality rug, unctuous cushions and flowing curtains give a cosy ambience. Here are some ideas…

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Designed by architect Cini Boeri for Arflex, the Strips modular seating system is considered iconic. It offers versatility, comfort and a timeless aesthetic, which is why this collection has stood the test of time. Arflex is available through Heidi Gubbins, situated in Urb. Marbella Real on The Golden Mile (www.heidigubbins.com).

LIVING ROOMS ...

Hay have just unveiled their new Quilton modular sofa from British design duo Doshi Levien. Its versatile system of quilted seating modules allows you to compose different looks and shapes, and the punchy green upholstery is perfect for a contemporary home. Hay is available from BoConcept Plus Store on the Mijas Road and in C. de Negocios Oasis in Marbella (www.plusstore.es), and also through Siesta Interior Design in C.C. Plaza in Nueva Andalucía (www.siestainteriordesign.com).

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Ruché combines tradition with contemporary.

The name refers to a sewing technique, normally seen in clothing design, in which fabric is gathered or pleated. Slender and chic, Ruché is also soft and welcoming (www.ligne-roset.com).

Opposite Page Top Left The vibrant Loafer SC23 lounge chair in Karandash from &Tradition comfortably embraces the person sitting in it with its wrap-around back. &Tradition is available from BoConcept Plus Store on the Mijas Road and in C. de Negocios Oasis in Marbella (www.plusstore.es).

Top Right Designed by Pierre Paulin, Gubi’s low, soft and curvy Pacha lounge chair evokes the feeling of sitting on a cloud. Its ergonomic precision and craftsmanship showcase the key hallmarks of Paulin’s obsession when it came to developing new designs (www.gubi.com).

Bottom Left The Redondo armchair from Moroso is built for comfort, with padded seating and soft quilted fabric. Its design was inspired by the upholstery of 1950s and 1960s American cars (www.moroso.it).

Bottom Right The Zoe chaise longue from Verzelloni is also available as an outdoor version. Its contemporary design offers both comfort and style. Verzelloni is available through Siesta Interior Design in C. Plaza in Nueva Andalucía (www.siestainteriordesign. com) and Gonzalez Casaus in CC Camoján Corner in Marbella (www.gonzalezcasaus.com).

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A R R E ST I N G A R M CH A I RS

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A creation from UK company Secolo, the Tateyama sofa – with its organic form and pure neutral colour – has been included in a project called Sand Sound, which embraces soft curves and mainly natural materials, as if the edges were worn down by the sea for a truly Mediterranean feel (www.secolo.co.uk).

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U S E F U L S I D E TA B L E S

Above Left Porada’s circular Jenny side table in solid Canaletto walnut is cleverly designed with built-in shelving and a useful reading light. Porada is available through Siesta Interior Design in C. Plaza in Nueva Andalucía (www.siestainteriordesign.com) and Alison Bethell-Collins Interior Design in San Pedro de Alcántara (www.alisonbethellcollins.com).

Above The No No Turning Table from Menu Space was designed by German designer Theresa Rand.

She wanted to combine the concept of a table and storage and came up with the idea of a lid that opens by rotating it around one of the legs. Menu is available from BoConcept Plus Store on the Mijas Road and in C. de Negocios Oasis in Marbella (www.plusstore.es) and through High End Homes in Puerto Banús (www.high-endhomes.com).

Left Crafted from FSC™-certified solid ash, the Insert side table from Ferm Living serves as a useful yet attractively sculptural furniture item for the living room, and its small stature makes it perfect for rooms of all sizes. Ferm Living is available through High End Homes in Puerto Banús (www.high-endhomes.com).

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S I D E B OA R D ST Y L E Left This striking recycled teak sideboard with a black finish is available from New Life Home in Avda. de Velázquez in Málaga, or shop online at (www.newlifehome.es).

Below Designed by Marcel Wanders Studio for Fiam Italia, the stunning Echo cabinet is a real show-stopper that offers both practicality and timeless style. Fiam Italia is available through Siesta Interior Design in C. Plaza in Nueva Andalucía (www.siestainteriordesign.com).

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The Sogno fireplace from Safretti is a contemporary take on their Magic-Fire collection, and features a highly sophisticated aesthetic that is ideal for a luxury home. Sogno is available with or without the chimney, as the flue has no function and is only incorporated for decorative purposes. Available from Lijomi in the Marbella Club on the Golden Mile (www.lijomi.eu).

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P O U FS W I T H CH A R ACT E R

The Boa pouf from Hem, shown here in their “Sulfur Yellow” and “Cotton Candy” versions, was designed by Sabine Marcelis. Its playful shape invites you to immerse yourself in the middle and lounge back comfortably (www.hem.com).

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Left The Indian Majorda pouf from Sybartum is made from wool and cotton. Its white and blue pattern is fresh and contemporary, perfect for a Mediterranean home. Sybartum is situated on the Mijas Road (www.sybartum.com).

Below Left The Five pouf from Muuto comprises a versatile, easy-to-use design that is both comfortable and contemporary. The name derives from its pentagonal shape, and it can be used as extra seating or to decorate an unused corner of a room (www.muuto.com).

Below Designed by Piero Lissoni for Viccarbe, the comfortable and versatile Season pouf can be used as a footrest or as a small seat.

It is available with hidden casters, electrical options and a useful handle for easy portability, and has a highly resistant fabric to help avoid marks or scratches (www.viccarbe.com).

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GLAMMING UP YO U R H O M E W I T H U P H O LST E RY FA B R I C

You can transform an old armchair or pouf, for example, by simply changing up the upholstery – giving it a whole new lease of life. Reupholstering a piece of furniture can turn it into a real statement feature in a room so think carefully about the design you choose. Upholstery fabric needs to be highly-durable but this doesn’t always mean it has to be expensive as there are many fabrics on the market, thanks to advances in technology, that are high performing in quality and price value. Simply re-covering some cushions on your sofa can add a much-needed splash of colour and vibrancy to a living room, giving it a great focal point.

Opposite Page The new Pantelleria collection from Zinc is rich in both textures and colours. Named after an Italian island, the designs transmit the island’s sumptuous colours, serving as the perfect colour palette for the collection.

Zinc is available from Alison Bethell-Collins Interior Design in Avda. del Mediterráneo in San Pedro de Alcántara (www. alisonbethellcollins.com), Cortidea on the Mijas Road and in Urb. Marbella Real (www.cortidea.es), Gonzalez Casaus in CC Camoján Corner in Marbella (www.gonzalezcasaus.com) and Heidi Gubbins in Urb. Marbella Real on the Golden Mile (www.heidigubbins.com).

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FA B R I CS . . .

Above The Scaramouche collection from Dedar features playful dragons and colourful fringes. The design was inspired by the yarn-dyed jacquards of kimonos. Dedar is available from Alison Bethell-Collins Interior Design in Avda. del Mediterráneo, San Pedro de Alcántara (www.alisonbethellcollins.com).

Above Right The Fusionist collection from Carlucci is a meeting of opulence and contemporary style. The vibrant colours emit joie de vivre in rich and multi-layered materials.

Available from Cortidea on the Mijas Road and in Urb. Marbella Real (www.cortidea.es) and Heidi Gubbins in Urb. Marbella Real on the Golden Mile (www.heidigubbins.com).

Right Mark Alexander’s Sierra fabric collection is suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. The pure linen collection has all the attributes, in terms of durability and easy maintenance, necessary for outdoor use. Available through Cortidea on the Mijas Road and in Urb. Marbella Real (www.cortidea.es), Arte del Lusso in San Pedro de Alcántara (www.artedellusso.es), Heidi Gubbins in Urb. Marbella Real on the Golden Mile (www.heidigubbins.com), Alison Bethell-Collins Interior Design in Avda. del Mediterráneo, San Pedro de Alcántara (www.alisonbethellcollins.com), and Gonzalez Casaus in CC Camoján Corner in Marbella (www.gonzalezcasaus.com).

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FA B R I CS . . .

The new Pepe Peñalver collection Mindanao is contemporary, colourful and casual.

Inspired by Philippine indigenous art and textiles, this beautiful collection brings any living space to life (www.pepepenalver.com).

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CU RTA I N S . . .

CRAZY ABOUT

CURTAINS Curtains are often easily overlooked but they can really transform a room more than many people realise. Apart from the practicality of blocking out light, they add a finishing touch, an artistic statement or a much-needed acoustic solution to a room that will elevate the overall feel of the living space in quite a transformational way. Employ a good installer and invest in quality, and you will reap the rewards…

The Giardino Segreto collection from Designers Guild is a wonderful range of refined prints expressed in watercolour, paint and pencil-shaded detail on linen and cotton.

Designers Guild is available from Arte del Lusso in San Pedro de Alcántara (www.artedellusso.es), Alison Bethell-Collins Interior Design in Avda. del Mediterráneo in San Pedro de Alcántara (www.alisonbethellcollins.com), Cortidea on the Mijas Road and in Urb. Marbella Real (www.cortidea.es), and through Gonzalez Casaus in CC Camoján Corner in Marbella (www.gonzalezcasaus.com).

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CU RTA I N S . . .

Ella from Création Baumann’s Joy of Life collection is a beautiful transparent curtain fabric with a playful and creative look. This glamorous and expressive textile features sequins that play with the light. Available from Arte del Lusso in San Pedro de Alcántara (www. artedellusso.es) and Cortidea on the Mijas Road and in Urb. Marbella Real (www.cortidea.es).

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Above Left Inspired by tropical scenes, Tropicalia from Romo is an eye-catching depiction of palm trees and lush foliage digitally-printed on a beautifully soft velvet. Romo is available from Arte del Lusso in San Pedro de Alcántara (www.artedellusso.es), Heidi Gubbins in Urb. Marbella Real on the Golden Mile (www.heidigubbins.com), Alison Bethell-Collins Interior Design in Avda. del Mediterráneo in San Pedro de Alcántara (www.alisonbethellcollins.com) and Cortidea on the Mijas Road and in Urb. Marbella Real (www.cortidea.es).

Above The Jardin Néroli collection from Casamance is made of a satin-embroidered fabric with flowers and leaves featuring deep warm colours that are perfect for autumn.

Available from Heidi Gubbins in Urb. Marbella Real on the Golden Mile (www.heidigubbins.com), Alison Bethell-Collins Interior Design in Avda. del Mediterráneo in San Pedro de Alcántara (www.alisonbethellcollins.com), Cortidea on the Mijas Road and in Urb. Marbella Real (www.cortidea.es), Arte del Lusso in San Pedro de Alcántara (www.artedellusso.es) and Gonzalez Casaus in CC Camoján Corner in Marbella (www.gonzalezcasaus.com).

Left The Present Perfect collection from Dedar is an abstract composition of geometric shapes woven with yarns of different thicknesses and colours on a heavy background of jute and cotton. Available in San Pedro de Alcántara at Alison Bethell-Collins Interior Design in Avda. del Mediterráneo (www.alisonbethellcollins.com) and Arte del Lusso in Calle Lagasca (www.artedellusso.es).

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TA B L E WA R E . . .

FLAIR IN TABLEWARE Dress your tables with beautiful vases to celebrate blooms and playful tableware to wow your guests when entertaining.

Get creative with your tableware (it doesn’t all have to be plain white!) with different colours, textures and designs – and have some fun!

The new autumn/winter Flow collection from Kodanska fuses art with design. The collection is all hand-blown, making each piece unique (www.kodanska.dk).

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TA B L E WA R E . . .

Above The Ora vase and bowl collection from Stelton was created by Italian designers Daniel Debiasi and Federico Sandri. The collection features a harmonious and organic look, with a powdered matt exterior and a glossy interior that plays with light and reflection. Stelton is available from Escandi Design on the Mijas Road (www.escandidesign.com).

Right The new autumn/winter collection from Nordal comes with many playful tableware items, including these condiment holders featuring monkeys. Nordal is available from BoConcept Plus Store on the Mijas Road and in C. de Negocios Oasis in Marbella (www.plusstore.es).

Opposite Page The iconic Kubus collection was designed by architect Mogens Lassen in 1962 using the utmost precision and mathematical skills – and now it has been handcrafted at

By Lassen in Holstebro (Denmark). By Lassen is available from BoConcept Plus Store on the Mijas Road and in C. de Negocios Oasis in Marbella (www.plusstore.es).

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B AT H R O O M S . . .

THE BUZZ ABOUT

BATHROOMS Bathrooms have come a long way in recent times. No longer is the bathroom somewhere for people to dive in and out of, but instead it has become a place to relax and revive yourself. Items that are usually seen in other rooms in the house have now crept into the bathroom, including armchairs, chandeliers and statement wallpapers – making the space feel more inviting and decorative.

If you are thinking about tweaking your bathroom on a budget, organiser baskets are a simple way to store towels and toiletries, while a backlit mirror offers the ultimate in beauty lighting. Changing up your faucets can be quite transformative, and a rain shower can offer a truly luxurious showering experience.

Natural materials such as stone and wood are becoming increasingly popular in contemporary bathrooms, as they give a timeless look that will never become boring, and you can also add some greenery such as a succulent or air plant to transform Designed by Kelly Hoppen, Apaiser’s Bijoux your bathroom into a veritable oasis. bath is made from marble stone to celebrate strength and beauty. It captures the light with an interesting faceted design, and offers sublime relaxation (www.apaiser.com).

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The new Apollo showerhead lamp collection by Antonio Lupi combines light and water to create this iconic hybrid. The Apollo comes as a wall fixture or as two different ceiling fixtures. It is shown here with Antonio Lupi’s ergonomic Mastello bathtub and Indigo tap in a matte finish (www.antoniolupi.it).

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B AT H R O O M S . . .

Inspired by Art Déco of the early 20th century, Ex.t’s Nouveau collection now features a bathtub and a shower system with a design that is both decorative and functional. The bath can be positioned up against the wall as a centrepiece in the room. Made using a material called LivingTec, it is available in matte white or a delicate blush pink (www.ex-t.com).

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B AT H R O O M S . . .

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Left Kast’s new Aura is part of a trio of patterned basins within the ever-expanding Kast Canvas collection. Shaped like a pill, this contemporary design, inspired by architecture, has fluted surface details and comes as a single, double or freestanding pedestal basin (www.kastconcretebasins.com).

Above The Novales countertop washbasin is from Bathco’s Cement range. Its smooth-to-the-touch finish gives it a sleek urban look. Bathco offers a wide range of contemporary bathroom items including faucets, sanitaryware, furniture, showertrays and more (www.thebathcollection.com).

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B AT H R O O M S . . .

Antolini’s Crystal Agate is a delightful collection of natural agate fused together with highquality resins to create a soothing field of colour.

As shown here, the material can be illuminated from behind to create a dramatic effect. Antolini is available from Lijomi in the Marbella Club on the Golden Mile (www.lijomi.eu).

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BEDROOMS ...

REST IS BEST The bedroom needs to have a well-thought-out design so that your mind can be in the most restful state possible for a superlative night’s sleep.

Though a good bed and mattress are always well worth the investment, other elements of the bedroom also warrant consideration. Consider simple and relaxing colour tones, proper lighting for bedtime reading as well as the general ambience, fabrics that are soft-to-the-touch, and clever storage and window solutions. When all of these components are right, this room can transform your life, allowing you to enjoy the perfect night’s sleep and helping you feel uplifted and more productive during the day.

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“When the sun breaks through, light and shadow let our Slow collection shine with its simplicity and elegance, and this shows that some moments need to be enjoyed slowly.”

The Slow collection by Tinekhome (www.tinekhome.com).

Left Abate bedlinen is made from 100 per cent Oeko-tex certified Egyptian Giza cotton with a thread count of 430 in single ply. It is a light, beautiful fabric which has a softness somewhere between silk and cotton. Abate’s wool plaid is made from 100 per cent recycled wool and is produced outside Florence (Italy). Abate is available from High End Homes in Puerto Banús (www.high-endhomes.com).

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B E DS I D E TA B L E I D E AS

Above Left The Bordeaux night stand from BoConcept is refined in its design, including soft-closing drawers, but it is also practical with a built-in hidden area for chargers. It is shown here with BoConcept’s Austin bed. BoConcept is situated on the Mijas Road and in C. de Negocios Oasis in Marbella (www.boconcept.es).

Above This teak bedside table from New Life Home has a useful drawer and a raw natural look that would fit perfectly into a contemporary boho-style bedroom. It is shown here with their white ceramic table lamp with a natural raffia lampshade, and their natural teak headboard. All available from New Life Home in Avda. de Velázquez in Málaga or shop online at www.newlifehome.es.

Left The Dorian wooden nightstand from Cattelan Italia is covered in synthetic or soft leather, with a useful transparent glass shelf incorporated within the structure. Cattelan Italia is available through Alison Bethell-Collins Interior Design in San Pedro de Alcántara (www.alisonbethellcollins.com) and Gonzalez Casaus in CC Camoján Corner in Marbella (www.gonzalezcasaus.com).

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Bonaldo’s Tonight bed comes as a double or single version and can be customised, and the removable upholstery is available in fabric, leather or eco-leather. The Tonight Open version (shown here) has convenient storage underneath the bed for a useful space-saving option. Bonaldo is available through Siesta Interior Design in Centro Plaza in Nueva Andalucía (www.siestainteriordesign.com).

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G O I N G H E A DY OV E R H E A D B OA R DS

Right Designed by Formstelle, the Friday Night bed from Zeitraum features a graceful and eye-catching backrest shape, and it comes in American walnut or European oak (www.zeitraum-moebel.de).

Below Carpe Diem’s Valö upholstered headboard has four panels in different sizes, creating a symmetrical pattern that you can configure any way you wish. The headboard is surrounded by a fabric-covered frame that provides a clean and geometric look. Available from BoConcept Plus Store on the Mijas Road and in C. de Negocios Oasis in Marbella (www.plusstore.es) and Escandi Design on the Mijas Road (www.escandidesign.com).

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OUT LIKE A LIGHT

Above Left The Night Owl table lamp from Fritz Hansen offers casual and warm illumination. The base and oval shade merge seamlessly together to create one single form, giving the lamp a distinctive and contemporary look.

Available from BoConcept Plus Store on the Mijas Road and in C. de Negocios Oasis in Marbella (www.plusstore.es).

Above Part of an eponymous collection designed by Arturo Alvarez, the small Nevo table lamp celebrates organic shapes – with each lamp featuring a unique style. Available from Ges Lighting in C/ Uranio in Pol. Ind. La Ermita in Marbella (www.grupoelectrostocks.com) and through Gonzalez Casaus in CC Camoján Corner in Marbella (www. gonzalezcasaus.com).

Left Bover’s Lexa wall lamp has a fixed arm which comes with a brass, chrome or nickel finish. Bover is available from Ges Lighting in C/ Uranio in Pol. Ind. La Ermita in Marbella (www.grupoelectrostocks.com).

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BEDROOMS ...

The Cap table lamp from Normann Copenhagen has an adjustable shade and also comes in white and black. The interior side of the shade is white and reflects the light, while the rotatable shade allows you to direct the illumination to exactly where you need it. Normann Copenhagen is available through Siesta Interior Design in C. Plaza in Nueva Andalucía (www.siestainteriordesign.com).

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K I TC H E NS . . .

A CHEF’S DELIGHT Due to recent changes in our lifestyles as a result of the dreaded COVID-19, the kitchen has become a place that we have all grown a little more familiar with. When investing in your kitchen, whether your style is slick and minimalist or more homely and casual, superlative functionality and a design that reflects your personality is the perfect recipe for you to concoct your culinary delights. You don’t always have to get a second mortgage to upgrade your kitchen – simply consider a timeless design and some good-quality materials that will stand the test of time.

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A Vipp kitchen is a modular concept conceived from building blocks. There are four types of modules – island, island with seating, wall and tall – and each module can be built with predefined units of your choice. Vipp is available from High End Homes in Puerto Banús (www.high-endhomes.com).

K I TC H E NS . . .

The Linea kitchen from Colombini Casa features a composition packed with personality and beautiful finishes, highlighted by superb industrial touches that give it an urban and contemporary look. The range comes with ample work surfaces, and their Groove bookcase and Tecno doors – which have a hidden handle and smoked glass with vertical interior illumination – are also charming features that make Linea particularly distinctive. Colombini Casa is situated in Calle de la Cruz in Torremolinos (www.colombinicasa.com).

K I TC H E NS . . .

The Bossa F45C from Leicht incorporates tall handle-less units with pull-out shelves and slide-away doors, while the Fios modular shelving system is set up as a freely suspended wall fixture. Leicht is available from Decodan Studio in Avda.

Juan Carlos I in Estepona and also the Marmorin Design Center on the Golden Mile (www.decodanstudio.com).

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K I TC H E NS . . .

Modulnova are internationally renowned for their clever use of innovative high-quality materials and for creating kitchens of the utmost perfection. The mesmerising intersections of this imposing shelving unit in Black Dust metal create functional storage solutions that offer a defining statement aesthetic. Modulnova is situated in Avda.

Salamanca 12 in San Pedro de Alcántara (www.modulnovamarbella.com).

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CO O L B A R STO O L S

Top Left Essential Home collaborated with Valencian designers Masquespacio to create the McCarey bar stool. One of the most iconic film directors in the Hollywood industry, Thomas Leo McCarey was the inspiration for Masquespacio’s playful design of the bar chair, which is upholstered in a smooth velvet fabric and has a bright brass frame (www.essentialhome.eu).

Above Designed By Enzo Berti, the Five barstool from Bross Italy has an adjustable column, back frame, and footrest in lacquered or satin chromed metal. The seat comes in beechwood, oakwood or upholstered (www.bross-italy.com).

Left The Sequoia stool from Magis is made from stainless steel, painted in polyester powder. It comes in two heights, and a seat cushion is available in expanded polyurethane with a fabric covering (www.magisdesign.com).

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K I TC H E NS . . .

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The Graphite Stone range is a sleek and sophisticated kitchen by German company Häcker. Dark kitchens have become increasingly popular in recent years, and the use of natural materials has also become a common feature in contemporary collections. Häcker is available from Novo Küchen in Avda. Juan Carlos I in Estepona (www.novokuchen.com).

K I TC H E NS . . .

Above With the contemporary new Meg kitchen from Arredo3, cupboard doors with a discreet relief give the range its distinctive look. Combining natural wood with strong black lines adds a bold look to any kitchen. Arredo3 is available from Decodan Studio in Avda. Juan Carlos I in Estepona and also the Marmorin Design Center on the Golden Mile (www.decodanstudio.com).

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Below The melange of crisp white with natural wood and the optional addition of gold accents produces a fresh and timeless look, perfect for a contemporary Mediterranean home. Fabrisol is situated in Avenida de Mijas (www.fabrisol.com).

A RCH I T E CT U R E N E WS ...

A R C H I T I Z E R AWA R DS

THE ROLE OF DESIGN

I N A C H A N G I N G WO R L D

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Opposite Page: Bamboo Bamboo Canopy + Pavilions by llLab (Arch-Exist Photography) Other Photos (from top left, clockwise): Yabuli Entrepreneurs Congress by MAD Architects (Arch-Exist Photography); Bamboo Branch Academy by Archermit (Arch-Exist Photography); Smart Design Studio by Smart Design Studio (Romello Pereira); Lyngen Aurora by Snorre Stinessen Architecture (Snorre Stinessen); Victorian Music Box by CCY Architects (Draper White); Maggie’s Leeds by Heatherwick Studio (Hufton+Crow); The Rajkumari Ratnavati Girl’s School by Diana Kellogg Architects (Vinay Panjwani); Quinta de Santo António Hotel & Winery (MIR)

This year’s Architizer A+Awards understandably focused on “a year of unprecedented social and environmental challenges”. The theme of the ninth annual awards was “Architecture for a Changing World”, with the key objective of celebrating architects and designers “whose work strives to create a more resilient built environment for generations to come”.

According to Architizer, a leading global online architecture platform, the awards were founded on the premise of democratising architecture and honouring the best architecture and spaces from around the world. The program’s overall mission is “to nurture the appreciation of meaningful architecture around the world and champion its potential for a positive impact on everyday life”.

The 2021 A+Awards attracted more than 5,000 entries from 100-plus countries, “including countless pioneering projects that respond to the most pressing global challenges today – from climate change and the COVID-19 pandemic to urbanisation and economic inequity”.

The winners include innovative projects by both renowned firms and emerging practices, among them: · Tadao Ando Architect & Associates (Hei Art Museum, Shunde, China)

· Heatherwick Studio (Maggie’s Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom) · Diana Kellogg Architects (The Rajkumari Ratnavati Girls’ School, Jaisalmer India) · VTN (Vo Trong Nghia) Architects (Stepping House, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam) · Caspar Schols (ANNA Stay, Denbosch, Netherlands) · Studio Zhu Pei (Jingdezhen Imperial Kiln Museum, Jingdezhen, China) “The designers behind these projects come from vastly different geographies and personal experiences,” said Architizer content director Paul Keskeys, “but they all share at least one thing in common: they possess the creative courage not just to iterate on the present, but to forge entirely new ideas for the future.”

A jury-selected winner and a popular choice winner were awarded in each of the 94 categories, with over 400,000 votes cast by the voting public. Special honoree awards are also being presented to a selection of other outstanding projects that demonstrate “the extraordinary power of architecture to catalyse change in communities worldwide”. www.architizer.com Photos supplied courtesy of www.v2com HOMEANDLIFESTYLE.ES 2021

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R E S I D E N CI AS L UJ OS AS V I TA L U X , S. L .

F U T U R I ST I C G R A N D E U R State-of-the-Art Smart Home by the Sea

Located a short drive from Marbella’s glamorous Puerto Banús marina, this sleekly designed villa takes contemporary living to a whole new level. The 12-bedroom home is built on a 4,200 square metre plot in a highly coveted district west of Marbella, bringing an exceptional mix of bright luminosity and cosy warmth to luxury living – and direct beach access.

The futuristic design is patently clear even before entering the front door, showcased by immaculate, verdant and tropical landscaping. Spacious rooms with soaring ceilings and sun-catching full-length window fronts provide breathtaking views to a frontline of sandy, almost completely private beach area.

This newly built property is a latest-generation smart home, featuring a host of superb details such as home cinema 5.1 (Laser 4K-Technology), sauna, Turkish bath, spa/jacuzzi, fully-equipped gym, outdoor bar, plentiful seating areas and indoor pool with entertainment area.

Other key features include air-conditioning, underfloor heating, nacre cream marble floors, double-glazing, advanced alarm system, video-phone, high-level domotic (home automation) system, two open fireplaces (“Glamm Fire”) with electronic spark and safety detection, LED lighting, flood and fire detection, solar energy, laundry, lift and automatic irrigation systems.

The property underwent a major refurbishment between 2020 and 2021, with several features upgraded and new ones incorporated. These include: • Solar system installed to set electricity costs to almost zero • Wooden sun deck and main pool deck replaced with marble • Upper terrace jacuzzi completely rebuilt and enlarged • Two garages added, with electric car charging ports • High-tech speaker system installed for outdoor lounges and entire garden area • Alarm system upgraded to highest security level available 136

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In addition to being the perfect home for those wanting to enjoy tranquil relaxation in an inviting and entertaining setting, the villa also offers a diverse range of other usage options, including conversion into a boutique hotel or upscale living for senior-age residents.

PROPERTY FILE Area: Marbella West Building year: 2018-2021 Orientation: south-facing Plot: 4,200 m2 Built area: 2,513 m2 Terrace: 844,85 m2 Bedrooms: 12 Bathrooms: 12 + 2 toilets Infinity pool: heated (outdoor & Indoor) Air-conditioning: Daikin Vrv Heating: underfloor by air-water pump Kitchen: 2 (fully-fitted with Gaggenau/Siemens) Garage: several cars (8) Other special features: domotic system, open fireplaces, LED lighting, flood and fire detection, solar energy, lift, automatic irrigation systems.

Residencias Lujosas Vitalux S.L. (Doris Kavcic) Tel. (+34) 630 565 473 / info@vitalux.es / www.vitalux.es Sales price on application (ID. 18860) Land tax/community fee information available on request

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ALEJANDRO GIMÉNEZ ARCHITECTS Creating Serene and Welcoming Living Spaces on the Costa del Sol

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Located in Marbella, in the heart of the Costa del Sol, Alejandro Giménez Architects comprises an experienced team of architects and interior designers who have been developing cutting-edge architectural projects for more than 20 years.

Their key focus is on the design of creative architecture that is highlighted by meticulous attention to detail, using local and natural materials. “On the Costa del Sol, which is suffering from a loss of its architectural identity,” they note, “our aim is to create contemporary architecture that still gives a nod to traditional Andalucían and Mediterranean architecture. Using water, natural light and a mélange of textures, we seek to create spaces that provide serenity and tranquility.

“We believe in architecture with roots… architecture that is linked to a place where Andalucían tradition is in harmony with modernity while still maintaining its soul.”

Alejandro Giménez Architects focuses on design and timelessness through this coming together of tradition and modernity, always seeking the best of Mediterranean architecture to create contemporary spaces where details and materials play a significant role. Each project is personal and unique, and all details and materials are carefully chosen, with the objective of creating a warm space with an identity of its own. Each creative process of a project is developed hand-in-hand with interior design experts to achieve a cosy, comfortable and contemporary style.

VILLA SENSES - A STUNNING FAMILY HOME OVERLOOKING THE SEA Alejandro Giménez Architects was an integral part of the team that created this stunning family villa. The design starts from a core base of the sea, sky and vistas, showcasing the property’s location and reversing the customary distribution of a house. The sleeping and lounging areas are located on the ground floor, and everyday activities and magnificent views are enjoyed on the first floor, complemented by a spacious terrace.

The house is designed with meticulous detail, taking the utmost care to choose the most appropriate materials that enhance its Mediterranean roots and contemporary-style spaces. The design features open and bright spaces that create a direct connection between the interior and outdoor areas.

Peter Meirsman, managing director of Nalipemi, the construction company that was responsible for the build, comments, “The project was initially meant to be a reformation, but in the end the old building was knocked down and we started the construction of the new property from scratch. We had never worked with Alejandro before but found him to be very professional, and his designs very inspiring. We loved how the project was so related to traditional Andalucian style but then added what we felt were Asian influences to the design, with rounded corners, varnished plastered walls and wooden features of perhaps Japanese influence. The build took around 15 months in total and it was a pleasure to work with everyone involved, and also to be a part of the project itself as it was so unique.”

Alejandro Giménez Architects Tel. (+34) 951 253 412 / (+34) 652 591 405 estudio@alejandrogimenez.net www.alejandrogimenez.net Nalipemi (Peter Meirsman) Tel. (+34) 619 342 043 www.nalipemi.com Photos by Mercedes Higuero HOMEANDLIFESTYLE.ES 2021

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OCEAN VIEW

BESPOKE HOMES DESIGNED FOR WELLBEING

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A selection of prime contemporary homes is being created on the Costa del Sol that truly stands out. Those who take a close look will discover that Ocean View has a completely different property development philosophy – one that is especially good news for owners.

If you do take the time, in person, to find out more about these homes, you will love the drive up through country scenery, and most definitely the spectacular views back across the coastal plain and sea to Marbella, Gibraltar and northern Africa.

Behind you are wooded slopes at the entrance to the hill club community of La Mairena, while stretching out immediately in front of you is a 230-hectare section of protected nature, providing views across verdant natural surroundings towards the sea from each of the 44 apartments and penthouses.

The spectacular views and setting are just two of the elements that go into the making of a community of homes – especially one of such high calibre – but they do form the all-important starting point from which all else flows. “It is no coincidence that Ocean View has a location of this kind, as we are committed to only build if we find land that fulfils a long list of requirements, and above all captures the imagination,” says experienced German developer Sascha Falk, owner of the FRD Group.

Having discovered a location that fired his imagination and his passion for creating beautiful homes, he took the next key step: building the right team for the project. For this he joined forces with Tony Parrado as general manager, a professional with three decades of experience building luxury villas in places such as La Zagaleta, and above all someone who shares his passion for this fast-moving business sector.

New Sources of Inspiration “We also share a desire to focus on uncompromised quality, and to shun quantity. We’re a boutique developer that creates madeto-measure homes with a clear emphasis on the client and a love for the product,” say Sascha and Tony, who bring all their expertise in this industry to the project and the building of a team that they are very proud of. “We developed this project from a different premise, wanting to create homes that are a delight to be in, so we sought inspiration from stylish boutique hotels and introduced elements into Ocean View that give it a distinct character, look and feel.”

Entering this select development sets the tone for Ocean View, reflecting these qualities: fine-quality stone, wood, glass, lighting and luxurious lifts. The layout, materials, dimensions and space follow this pattern of exclusivity and tasteful styling; and – if the standard finishing is already extremely special – then the buyer’s freedom to choose their own materials and finishes goes beyond anything available on the market today.

“Essentially, we give owners the ability to almost completely personalise their new home to their taste and requirements,” says Tony, “and it comes with the full support of myself and our professional interior design team. Our input in creating an expression of style and setting the tone for quality of life and wellbeing extends from the sumptuous interiors and terraces of the apartments and penthouses through to the personalised furniture selection for each owner.” Bespoke living – the very essence of Ocean View.

Left Tony Parrado, Right Sascha Falk.

Ocean View Marbella Centro Comercial Elviria, Ground Floor, Local Nº7, Marbella Tel. (+34) 951 255 255 info@oceanviewmarbella.com www.oceanviewmarbella.com HOMEANDLIFESTYLE.ES 2021

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BUILDING TO NEW HEIGHTS Article supplied by Atlas Group

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Business is booming on the Costa del Sol, and Atlas Group Marbella is the construction company behind many of the new commercial ventures.

The Costa del Sol is renewed with energy and the real estate market is undoubtedly booming. Despite the challenges over the past 18 months, Marbella and the surrounding areas on the sunshine coast are reaching new heights, with house prices increasing and a summer full of international tourism.

Investment in the area is apparent: in addition to several new, quality hotels and restaurants and improved infrastructure across the Costa del Sol, the property market is booming, with transactions continuing, particularly in luxury property over €1 million in price. Recent investment shows a longerterm stability and proves that the area will always bounce back, bigger and better than before.

Atlas Group’s portfolio is reflective of the activity in the area. A local leader in construction, typically known for luxury homes, the company has been busy creating both apartment complexes and commercial builds such as restaurants and a hostel, adding to their vast portfolio of quality builds. Their expansion into other fields of construction is not only a result of adapting to the demands of the ever-moving Costa del Sol, but also due to recent staff acquisitions, including that of Miguel Ángel García Herrero, who is the Technical Director and responsible for business development.

Miguel Ángel has extensive experience in the development and management of infrastructure, including time with Grupo Avintia as Technical Director. “My role at Atlas Group Marbella,” he explains, “is to take charge of the company

development, planning and technical assistance of projects, building work and infrastructure. We are seeing huge growth potential in the Costa del Sol market, both in the property market and with commercial investment projects. I am excited to demonstrate Atlas Group’s experience, not only in the luxury property arena but also to highlight the knowledge, skill and expertise the team are known for, with a plethora of commercial builds in progress or starting within the next few months.”

As a testament to the quality of work, and in signposting the Costa del Sol as a landmark in construction experience and quality, Atlas Group is currently building projects as far away as Sevilla, El Puerto de Santa María, Sanlúcar de Barrameda, Madrid and even France.

In addition to several luxury homes scattered across the Golf Valley of Marbella, the company is currently constructing an apartment complex in Fuengirola and commercial premises including a boutique hostel in the Old Town of Estepona, and renovating the prestigious El Coto restaurant near La Zagaleta in Benahavís. Additionally, a spectacular apartment community is about to start in Estepona, in partnership with a Dutch investor.

Atlas Group CC Atenea, Estepona Tel. (+34) 951 272 140 www.atlas-group.es

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GA R D E N S . . .

A DA PT I N G TO T H E CH A N G I N G O F T H E S E AS O NS

By Alia Babapulle Alia Babapulle. Interior and Exterior Designer Tel. (+34) 616 670 975 / aliabdesigns@live.co.uk

As we move into the autumn and winter months, long-term planning is needed. You should always water at night, so the plants have time to absorb and enjoy the water. This time of the year also means more tidying up as leaves fade and die. If you have pots you can easily clear off the dead leaves – they do nothing and are unsightly. Also, in a garden with flower-beds, pick them off if you can. You can dig them straight back into the earth and put some mulch on top for good measure, then water it all in the evening.

Start now to think about where you want to go with your garden/terrace for winter. Forethought is always good with gardens. I have been watching my pots and moving them about, as I always do. Some flourish better in a different place than the one they were in before, so off they go to another spot.

Pruning old dead shoots is highly recommended at this time, as it gives the plants a boost. I am a great believer in dead-heading, and plants will grow again beautifully even if you are quite ruthless.

With the heat, some plants have stopped flowering as much as they did before, so keep an eye on them. At the end of August they should have started to come into bloom again. I put fertiliser around the roots now, as they will appreciate a bit of TLC in the heat. September should see many flowers appear again, and shrubs taking on a new lease of life.

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a few in pots, group them together at different heights in a trough or on an attractive piece of furniture.

Thinking about containers is important. Outside I prefer to stick to terracotta, the normal colour and also black, as they do not detract from the beauty of the flowers and, when watering, they absorb the water well. But for indoors the sky’s the limit. Variety is certainly the spice of life when it comes to your plants, but many of the same flowers planted in the same type of pots and grouped in different heights can look just as beautiful.

Your flower-beds should be raked over, pots can do with the topsoil being loosened, good fertiliser should be spread, and pruning gently now is good – later on you can be somewhat more aggressive.

Think of what you want to augment and what you want to lessen. Take cuttings, slice open a chilli and scrape out the seeds, dry them so you can replant in February, and don’t forget to mark what the seeds are, as otherwise you may have a slight shock when they start growing. Ask your garden centre for advice if you are unsure of something, or you can email me. I will answer you as soon as possible.

Enjoy the colours and fragrances of autumn, both during the day and in the evening. The perfumes of dama de noche and jasmine – two of the most iconic flowers in southern Spain – are heady at this moment.

Stay safe, enjoy your plants and remember that flowers are very special. They can change your mood and bring back memories to make you feel good.

Photo: Presence in Hormoz 02 by ZAV Architects (Soroush Majidi)

LIFESTYLE GOURMET CUISINE Fine dining, wine notes and creative recipes

OPEN SEA Visionary designs and state-of-the-art boating experiences

HEALTH & BEAUTY Cutting-edge wellbeing and personal enhancement HOTELS & GETAWAYS Stylish holiday havens in Spain and around Europe

ART & CULTURE Sculpture, music, painting, theatre, books and photography NEWS & EVENTS Business bulletin, celebrations and presentations, and specialist advice

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H O M E R E CI P E S . . .

CR E AT I V E C U L I N A RY

I D E AS F O R D I N I N G I N

By Chili Gourmet Catering chef Helle Barlebo

“A C H I L I A DAY K E E PS T H E D O C TO R AWAY ”

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If you want to impress your guests with something different, I’m always happy to share some of the secrets of our popular dishes. I know that many people don’t often cook duck at home, but it’s actually easier than it seems. As always, buy the best quality you can find, and ecological if possible.

Gourmet Roasted Duck Ingredients: (serves four people) 4 magret of duck maldon salt pepper mix rose peppercorn fresh rosemary or thyme glacé of berries 500 gr. fresh forest fruit berries juice from 4 mandarins fresh mild chili 2 tablespoons sugar Cointreau (orange liqueur) parsnip puré 400 gr. potatoes 200 gr. parsnip

Remove the skin of the potatoes, parsnip and shallots and cut them into small pieces. Put to the boil in a pan covered with water, with a pinch of salt, until they are soft and tender. Remove the water and give it a round with your stick blender, adding the butter and heavy cream until you get a nice soft texture, then season with salt and pepper.

Make some fine cuts to the skin of the magret duck breast, a bit like creating a small chessboard in small squares, without cutting down to the meat. This makes the cooking more even and you obtain a crispier touch to the skin.

Add salt and pepper to both sides of the duck and leave it to sit on your cutting board for 10 minutes, before placing it on a barbecue – a little bit higher than medium heat and starting with the skin side down. If you don’t have a barbecue, a cast iron pan will also do the job. Grill on all sides for about eight minutes in total, and slightly press down the skin side to make sure it all touches the barbecue/pan.

Leave the duck breast to rest on a plate for five minutes, before cutting it into fine slices, ready for the plating, together with the glâce of berries and parsnip puré, and top it with rosemary and rose peppercorns.

Place the fresh berries into a small pan, together with the sugar, the mandarin juice and a tiny squeeze of water. Keep an eye on the pan, removing it frequently, and when it starts to boil add a shot of Cointreau and reduce the salsa for about four minutes. If you’re a chili fan like me, add a small teaspoon of fresh chopped chilis at the beginning and you will add a special taste to the sauce. Like I always say, “A chili a day, keeps the doctor away”.

Depending on your mood, you can serve this glacé of berries warm or cold – both ways are delicious. It also goes well with warm goat’s cheese or one of my favourite meats, “presa ibérica” (shoulder of Iberian pork).

If you prefer not to cook anything yourself, you can always get in contact with us for a complete catering experience.

2 shallots 4 spoons butter 1 dl. heavy cream

Chili Gourmet Catering… by Helle Barlebo Tel. (+34) 666 627 105 helle@chiligourmet.es www.chiligourmet.es HOMEANDLIFESTYLE.ES 2021

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DRINKS

FOR TECHIES

BY A J L I N N

It had to happen sooner or later. Social media has finally established itself firmly in the wine world, mainly thanks to TikTok. Having developed from its initial purpose as a forum for all sorts of odd dance routines and funny videos, changing the music industry as it went, TikTok’s reach now extends to even the most unexpected areas of interest. And, to the dismay of many, it is showing what it can do to the drinks industry; although we may not have caught on yet, it is influencing what we drink.

With one billion active users in 2020, its tentacles are spreading everywhere, and Drinks TikTok (or #DrinkTok) covers every conceivable sub-section, from cocktails to manufactured wine. Introduced in September 2016, TikTok is far from a new platform, but its prominence as a trend hub, influencing everything from the way we dress to the dishes we cook, became more relevant in the past year or so as TikTok’s main user base increased its age level.

The platform has become more relevant to drinks specifically, as Generation Z (those born between 1997 and 2000) reached legal drinking age. With their more sophisticated knowledge (or, at least, a wider experience) of alcohol and a deeper understanding of TikTok’s all-too-confusing algorithm, Gen Zs started sharing the creative cocktails and drinking hacks that brought DrinkTok into the mainstream. The age differentials are not as wide as many think: 60 per cent of users are over 25, and the key age sector, 25 to 34, doubled last year.

As with the demographic changes across the platform, DrinkTok changes as well. In the world of drink, the quickly-expanding age range has resulted in a vast assortment of well-composed, high-production cocktail how-tos, giant punch bowls filled with cheap spirits and lots of fruit, and everything there and back. It is plain to see that recording yourself mixing cocktails at home for a TikTok video is a way to become popular.

With many bars and restaurants hanging on by their fingernails after surviving COVID’s worst effects, the name of the game is to stick in there as one day all this will be horrible history. Even before TikTok came into our lives the wine lover with basic technical skills found a new world waiting out there at the click of a mouse. Merely typing “wine podcasts” into Google or DuckDuckGo search engines opens up endless possibilities, from attractive Masters of Wine couples to international experts like Tim Atkin, whose love of photography and music is offered as alternatives to a solid wine diet.

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maturing methods? Just type in “wine ageing without wood” and among a thousand other offerings we get the history of Georgia as the first wineproducing nation, complete with instructions on how to make the clay qvevris traditionally used.

Want to see the history of sherry as the first Spanish export, and how this came about? It’s all there. The amazing algorithm means that, if we set YouTube to keep serving up material on the same subject, it will just keep going ad infinitum until even the most avid aficionado can stand no more.

Sadly, many people become nervous on being handed the wine list in a restaurant, concerned about the possibility of becoming the laughing stock (behind their backs) of the servers for the errors they habitually make. So what could be more natural than to watch a video about choosing wine with a meal? Or how about opening a bottle when no corkscrew is available? Or cooling white wine without an ice bucket on hand?

Ask for anything and it will surely throw up suggestions and recommendations within milliseconds. Buying wine online? It is hard to go wrong. There are even websites that compare other websites, so you are guaranteed to get the best price, come what may. We can also sell wine online, and that bottle of Vega Sicilia that we could never bring ourselves to open may find a happier and more appreciative destination if it is advertised on one of the hundreds of specialist sites. Come to think of it, what on earth did we do without the internet?

FINE DINING Venetiis is a delightful little restaurant tucked away in Benalmádena Pueblo that has earned high praise among authentic Italian food aficionados – and is referred to as the best restaurant in the village.

It also features international and Spanish cuisine, superb value for money and a good wine list. All COVID-19 precautions are in force, vegan options are available and the tasting menu is better than most.

Price range: €20 to €50 Open for lunch and dinner Calle San Miguel, Local 1, Benalmádena Pueblo Tel. (+34) 951 765 199 www.venetiisrestaurant.com

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H OT E LS & G E TAWAYS ...

JUST SAY SO S O / S OTO G R A N D E “ E P I TO M IS I N G U N CO N V E N T I O N A L , R E B E L L I O U S A N D P L AY F U L LUX U RY ”

Pioneering hotel group Accor have 5,000 hotels, resorts and residences worldwide, and now they have added another superb establishment to their SO/ portfolio on the Costa del Sol. SO/ SOTOGRANDE offers luxury not only in accommodation but also in gastronomy, wellness and leisure activities – to guests and local residents alike. The SO/ brand concept offers a resort experience that is essentially non-conformist, discarding stiff tablecloths, suitedand-booted waiters and the over-formal ambience that you come to expect in many high-end hotels. At SO/ SOTOGRANDE staff wear colourful uniforms (designed by Spanish fashion designer Dolores Cortés) and have genuine smiles as they greet you. The playful use of colour can also be seen in the hotel’s decoration embracing fun and frivolity. Home & Lifestyle Magazine were lucky enough to be given a tour around this much-talked about hotel...

There has been a lot of buzz among “Sotograndianos” (and beyond) about this new resort opening on their doorstep… and now it is finally here. Perched on a hill, just up the road from the prestigious La Reserva de Sotogrande resort, SO/ offers the utmost in tranquillity and relaxation, with views over the Coast and Alboran Sea, as well as a multitude of leisure activities that, possibly, no other hotel on the Coast is currently offering.

The complex comprises 152 rooms, of which 36 are suites, plus cutting-edge fitness, spa and wellness facilities, and numerous areas for wining and dining.

Throughout the resort you will notice decorative references to the local area, with Andalucian architecture having a particular focus.

There are many features in the design that make a distinct nod to the famous arches often observed in Andalucía, and warm terracotta, lush green and deep blue tones have been utilised all around the property – demonstrating a respect for the ground, vegetation and sea that surrounds SO/.

Gastronomy is a huge part of the experience at SO/. For drinks there is MIXO, which is a contemporary bar offering a wide range of drinks and cocktails, a bold yet tasteful décor and a chic-lounge atmosphere – a great place for meeting up with friends before or after a meal.

Delicious bar snacks are available to help soak up the alcohol with the likes of crispy fried pork bites, mini hamburgers and tapas to name but a few of the many little treats they have on their menu. MIXO is open every evening from 6pm until late.

There is also MIXO VVIP, a more intimate bar area that is used primarily for private events, and then there is SOCIAL CLUB – ideal for a casual drink and snack while enjoying the venue’s panoramic views.

When it comes to dining, CORTIJO is a charming contemporary-style restaurant located above MIXO which draws all its culinary inspiration from the best of Andalucian ingredients. There is also SOCIETY – a fine-dining restaurant with an innovative pop-up concept that showcases iconic chefs and reputed food and beverage brands in a fun and interactive evening.

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If dining outdoors is more your penchant, HI-SO provides a “chiringuito” feel where you can dine al fresco on calamari, paella and salads as well as barbecued meat and fish, all cooked from fresh on their five-metre woodfired grill, with sangria, cocktails, beers and much more served from their comprehensive bar. In the evening, this area becomes a glamorous hotspot for those who want to while the night away listening to the cool beats of a DJ by the pool.

The expansive SO/ SPA has eight dedicated spa rooms offering natural therapies and modern cosmetology. Among the many wellness treatments available, guests can enjoy full-body cryotherapy, invigorating thermal and hydro pools, a relaxing flotation tank, hammam and massages.

Their impressive gym, SO/ FIT, has all the latest equipment and fitness activities you could possibly dream of. There is a Yoga Shala area and three meditation pools with stunning panoramic views across the Coast.

The gym is open to everyone, whether a guest of the resort or not, and the membership fee is very reasonable. The various options include facilities and treatments offered by SO/ SPA, plus discounts at the bars and restaurants within the resort.

There are so many elements to SO/ SOTOGRANDE that, when you first enter, you feel you have suddenly been transported into another world. Everything has been thoroughly thought through, with each small detail ticked-off. Even though there is a casually chic feel to SO/, you soon realise a great deal of work, effort and time has been dedicated to creating the perfect ambience for guests and visitors, all of which makes SO/ such an impressively special place to experience and pamper yourself.

SO/ SOTOGRANDE Avenida Almenara, Sotogrande Tel. (+34) 956 582 000 sotogrande@so-hotels.com / www.so-sotogande.com

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HYBRID GIGA YACHT FROM BENETTI

“A Moving Palace of Glass”

One of three 100-metre-plus yachts built during Benetti’s “Giga Season”, the Luminosity truly redefines ocean-based leisure. More than 800 square metres of exterior glass is wrapped around the main decks, and three-metre high windows provide views of the changing landscapes. Uninterrupted by structure, they create what Benetti describes as “a moving palace of glass”, with capacity for 27 guests in 12 suites.

Further enhancing the experience, a straight bow offers excellent seakeeping credentials, while a huge forward deck area gives guests a superb vantage point for cruising and relaxing. The main deck is a step lower, offering additional dining and social spaces, and being sheltered and shaded by the super-structure’s overhang.

The wheelhouse is above this deck, and higher still is a secluded private deck leading towards a certified helipad capable of taking a Bell 429 helicopter, as well as the space and flexibility to accommodate two cars (including a Rolls Royce Phantom), a 24-foot sailboat and two motor bikes. At the stern of the yacht, individual decks offer different configurations for seating and relaxation areas.

The Luminosity is 107.6 metres long with a beam of 17 metres, is constructed with a steel hull and aluminium superstructure, and has a gross tonnage of 5,844. It is powered by an innovative hybrid propulsion system with dieselelectric engines and two ABB Azipods connected to a specially developed battery pack for “vibration-free navigation in total silence”.

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The exterior design is a collaboration between Zaniz Jakubowski, Andrew Langton and Giorgio M. Cassetta, and the giga yacht’s interiors are the work of Zaniz Jakubowski.

Together, their objective was to create a “symphony of light”, with the defining characteristic being the vessel’s vast windows that flood spaces with natural light and provide a seamless connection with the outside world.

A skylight at sun deck level fills the yacht with a longitudinal axis of light, cascading down a 18-metre staircase that extends through five of the yacht’s six decks – its polished steel and toughened glass “giving the structure a sculptural yet floating appearance”.

Another dazzling feature of the Luminosity are visual artworks “that bring the natural rhythms and energy of the organic world into the heart of the yacht’s interior”. These include a visual panel of 370 square metres that stretches along the height of the main lobby stairwell and depicts a moving forest. In the main lounge area, interactive technology is present in the form of 264 white magnolia flowers sculpted in Corian resin on the aft wall, which open and close at varying speeds as a person passes by.

Damien Hirst’s coloured circles are artistically expressed on the French limestone floor in the main deck lobby, Matisse’s collages have been used for inspiration for shapes throughout the yacht’s main saloon and lounge, and a configuration of hand-forged steel polished to a mirror that encloses a thousand Bohemian crystal bulbs illuminates the main lounge.

As for entertainment, the yacht has two 3.5-metre dishes to receive signals anywhere in the world, and fibre optic cables throughout the vessel. Where fibre optic cables are not appropriate for use, a Cat 8 cable is employed – “a cutting edge super-fast connection never used on a yacht of this size before”.

Two racks on-board house servers for films and music, and a total of 74 top-of-the-range televisions (70 TVs plus four cinema projectors) are distributed throughout Luminosity, as well 10 intelligent mirrors including touch screen with multimedia and internet connection – plus 5G cables for future-proofing.

Safety is paramount, with fire-proof and fire-retardant materials of a particularly high quality meeting the most stringent requirements, while a sophisticated medical centre can cater for unexpected illnesses and injury.

Cutting-edge technology is highlighted by the Generation/ Propulsion Package, which is obtained by six generators of approximately 1,000 KW each. The electricity produced by the generators is managed electronically via a sophisticated and fully integrated power management system. The spare electricity is used to charge 36 tonnes of batteries, which are sufficient to run the vessel for 12 hours without generator power – “a huge convenience when at anchor with no shore power”.

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PO NT LL SM

by Isabelle Scheltjens Blizz Art Gallery – Puerto Banús

Isabelle Scheltjens is a young Belgian artist who recently opened the contemporary Blizz Art Gallery, situated at the far end of the prestigious Puerto Banús frontline promenade. She uses a technique called Pointillism (which could be compared to impressionism), using small pieces of coloured glass carefully arranged to create an image. In the case of Isabelle’s work, this is always a face. When viewed from a distance, the image perfectly comes together to form a jaw-dropping overall work of art. We visited the gallery on their opening night to meet the innovative artist in person and view her work for ourselves…

Isabelle’s artisan husband already worked with coloured glass, creating stained glass windows for residential properties and churches. Isabelle had an artistic background and, with this abundance of coloured glass at her disposal, she was inspired by her young daughter’s face to create a portrait of her. When she decided to post her creation on Instagram, she wasn’t prepared for the overwhelming response she would receive – and from there she never looked back.

The process entails taking large sheets of coloured glass which are cut, smoothed down and heated to 800 degrees Celsius for a smooth finish. She then places each piece of glass onto a large board on a table, using a ladder to view her work from a distance and layering glass on top of each other piece to achieve the exact colour required to create the perfect final image. Her portraits can be very large in size and comprise as many as 20,000 individual squares, so the process is quite

time-intensive and the result, always unique. Most of the work in her gallery is inspired by celebrities and models, but there are also ideas for pieces that arose simply from her own creative thoughts. She is often commissioned to do personal pieces and the requests come from all over the world.

From the moment Blizz Art Gallery opened, the gallery has achieved excellent sales from budding art collectors spell-bounded by the originality of the pieces. Isabelle’s team are a friendly artistic bunch brimming with enthusiasm for the artist’s work. They warmly encourage anyone interested in contemporary art to drop by for a friendly chat and experience the gallery for themselves.

Blizz Art Gallery Calle Ribera 18, Puerto Banús (next to the barrier at the exit of the port). Visit their website: www.blizzartgallery.com

Photos by: Balance Photography

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H E A LT H & B E AU T Y . . .

O N G O I N G P RO B L E MS F O R LO N G COV I D S U F F E R E RS

BY RACHEL GARROD

COVID-19 has caused devastation, leaving millions of people worldwide grieving and many suffering financial difficulties. However, with the roll-out of vaccines and the cautious lifting of restrictions, the world may begin to breathe a collective sigh of relief.

Not so for the estimated one million people in the UK living with Long COVID. Long haulers, as they are known, may have had mild initial symptoms, are as likely as not to have been hospitalised and are generally under 50 years of age, with women slightly more predisposed than men.

For long haulers the initial COVID-19 symptoms may have resolved as expected, but weeks later they begin to experience any number of strange new symptoms. Long COVID attacks a myriad of organs, leading to numerous reported symptoms such as diarrhoea and nausea, muscle pain and weakness, dizziness and heart palpitations and, in an overwhelming number of people, fatigue. Fatigue is the relentless presence of tiredness and exhaustion, mental and physical, unrelieved by sleep. The Office of National Statistics estimates the prevalence of fatigue at five weeks post COVID-19 to be around 12 per cent.

My 40-year-old stepdaughter is one of these, with fatigue so profound she is struggling to walk to the end of her street and looking after her newlywalking son is almost impossible. But there are good and bad days.

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self-help groups, podcasts, Facebook groups and the like, and are exploring the potential benefits of vitamins such as B12, Vitamin C and D and a low histamine diet. At present there is no research supporting this approach, but anecdotal evidence from the Long COVID community suggests some people may find relief.

Since there is little hard evidence for treatment approaches (although significant funding has been put into addressing the problem) patient experience is guiding management. One thing that seems to be coming through strongly, in the management of fatigue, is the need for rest.

Patients tell us that even very small amounts of activity can have significant debilitating effects for days or weeks.

Listening to your body appears to be crucial; the inconsistent nature of the problem makes it hard to plan daily activities. However, learning what can be done within “your daily package of energy” seems to be key. Breathing exercises, relaxation and meditation may help relieve anxiety associated with Long Covid, but for now we can only hope cures are forthcoming.

And remain positive, as the longer-term evidence is that most people do eventually make a full recovery.

Rachel Garrod (Ph.D. Physiotherapist) specialises in physiotherapy for older people with chronic respiratory disease and other chronic illnesses. rachelgarrod1@gmail.com Tel. (+34) 699 501 190

L AT E ST R E S E A RCH N E WS O N PA N CR E AT I C A N D OVA R I A N C A N C E R . .. A N D GAST RO I N T E ST I N A L A I L M E N TS MEDICAL MINUTES BY JOHN SCHIESZER

ELECTRONIC NOSE SNIFFS OUT CANCER There may be a whole new way to identify pancreatic and ovarian cancer.

An odour-based test that sniffs out vapours emanating from blood samples was able to distinguish between benign and pancreatic and ovarian cancer cells with up to 95 per cent accuracy, according to a new American study conducted by researchers at the University of Pennsylvania and Penn’s Perelman School of Medicine in Philadelphia.

The researchers developed a tool that uses artificial intelligence and machine learning to decipher the mixture of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitting off cells in blood samples. They found that this could serve as a non-invasive approach to screen for harder-to-detect cancers, such as pancreatic and ovarian.

“It’s an early study but the results are very promising,” said A. T. Charlie Johnson, who is a professor of physics and astronomy in Penn’s School of Arts & Sciences. “The data shows we can identify these tumours at both the advanced and earliest stages, which is exciting. If developed appropriately for the clinical setting, this could potentially be a test that’s done on a standard blood draw that may be part of your annual physical.”

The E-nose system is equipped with nanosensors calibrated to detect the composition of VOCs, which all cells emanate. Previous studies from the researchers demonstrated that VOCs released from tissue and plasma from ovarian cancer patients are distinct from those released from samples of patients with benign tumors.

Among 93 patients, including 20 patients with ovarian cancer and 20 with benign ovarian tumours, the vapour sensors discriminated the VOCs from ovarian cancer with 95 per cent accuracy and pancreatic cancer with 90 per cent accuracy. The tool also correctly identified all patients with earlystage cancers.

The technology’s pattern recognition approach is similar to the way people’s own sense of smell works, where a distinct mixture of compounds tells the brain what it’s smelling. The tool was trained and tested to identify the VOC patterns more associated with cancer cells and those associated with cells from healthy blood samples in 20 minutes or less.

SMART TOILET MAY BE ABLE TO ANALYSE STOOL For the first time, researchers are suggesting that an artificial intelligence tool can be used for long-term tracking and management of chronic gastrointestinal ailments. American scientists have added an artificial intelligence tool to the standard toilet to help analyse patients’ stool and give gastroenterologists the information they need to provide appropriate treatment, according to a new study. This novel technology could assist

in managing chronic gastrointestinal issues such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

“Typically, gastroenterologists have to rely on patient self-reported information about their stool to help determine the cause of their gastrointestinal health issues, which can be very unreliable,” said lead study investigator Dr. Deborah Fisher, an associate professor of medicine at Duke University in Durham, North Carolina. “Patients often can’t remember what their stool looks like or how often they have a bowel movement, which is part of the standard monitoring process. The Smart Toilet technology will allow us to gather the long-term information needed to make a more accurate and timely diagnosis of chronic gastrointestinal problems.”

The technology can be retrofitted within the pipes of an existing toilet. Once a person has a bowel movement and flushes, the toilet will take an image of the stool within the pipes. The data collected over time can provide a better understanding of a patient’s stool form (loose, normal or constipated) and if there is the presence of blood. The Smart Toilet could help diagnose problems and point to the right treatment.

To develop the artificial intelligence image analysis tool for the Smart Toilet, researchers analysed 3,328 unique stool images found online or provided by research participants. All images were reviewed and annotated by gastroenterologists according to the Bristol Stool Scale, a common clinical tool for classifying stool. The researchers found that the algorithm accurately classified the stool form 85.1 per cent of the time and blood detection had an accuracy of 76.3 per cent.

“We are optimistic about patient willingness to use this technology because it’s something that can be installed in their toilet’s pipes and doesn’t require the patient to do anything other than flush,” said lead study investigator Sonia Grego, who is the founding director of the Duke Smart Toilet Lab. “An IBD flare-up could be diagnosed using the Smart Toilet and the patient’s response to treatment could be monitored with the technology. This could be especially useful for patients who live in long-term care facilities who may not be able to report their conditions and could help improve initial diagnosis of acute conditions.”

The prototype has promising feasibility, but it is not yet available to the public. Researchers are developing additional features of the technology to include stool specimen sampling for biochemical marker analysis.

John Schieszer is an award-winning national journalist and radio and podcast broadcaster of The Medical Minute. He can be reached at medicalminutes@gmail.com.

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COSTAFIORE GARDENS LUXU RY D E V E LO P M E N T I N E ST E P O N A

Dutch developer Richard Schul is known for his deep love of Spain, so he was delighted to have the “privilege and honour” of presenting his Costafiore Gardens project to real estate and property development professionals this summer.

The development comprises 35 luxury apartments including seven penthouses complete with private pool, and all with sea views. Among those attending the presentation were local architect Ventura Moron (responsible for the design), and representatives of prominent local building company Atlas Group, who have been chosen to work alongside Richard and Ventura for the construction of the project. www.costafioregardens.com / www.atlas-group.es

Photo Credit: Johnny Gates

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WO R L D V IS I O N GA L A AT P U E N T E RO M A N O B E ACH R E S O RT A N D N O B U H OT E L M A R B E L L A One of Marbella’s most exclusive hotel resorts regularly supports the world’s largest children’s charity, World Vision, and this summer Puente Romano held a glamorous gala event at the Sea Grill restaurant. All proceeds from this spectacular evening went towards the economic empowerment of Ugandan children.

Talented artists including Trevis, Gypsies, Tom Rust and Mr. Maph performed on stage to a select group of guests, who “dressed to impress” and enjoyed a sumptuous gastronomic experience created by renowned executive chef Thomas Stork. Extraordinary raffle prizes were put on auction for guests, who made generous bids to own and experience what was on offer. The resoundingly successful evening culminated in a grand finale of fireworks. www.puenteromano.com

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L A R E S E RVA D E S OTO G R A N D E H OSTS L A D I E S E U RO P E A N TO U R T E A M S E V E N T Leading European and international players headed to the Costa del Sol in August to compete in the Aramco Team Series-Sotogrande event at La Reserva Club. This was the second of four $1 million series events being held around the world, following the inaugural leg in London in July and the next two in New York (14-16 October) and Jeddah (10-12 November). The novel format of the series pits teams of four – comprising a captain, two fellow tour pros and an amateur – against each other. Trophies (and prizemoney) are awarded to both the winning team and the leading individual.

In Sotogrande, Team Buhai (Ashleigh Buhai, Stacy Lee Bregman, Hayley Davis and amateur Ignacio Morillo) secured victory in a one-hole play-off against Team Strom after combining for a total of 35-under-par. In the individual standings, American Alison Lee captured her first win as a professional, finishing five strokes ahead of South Africa’s Buhai, with German Karolin Lampert third, Australian Stephanie Kyriacou fourth, and English duo Charley Hull and Bronte Law fifth and sixth place, respectively. Later this year (25-28 November), the Ladies European Tour returns to the Coast for the Andalucía Costa del Sol Open de España at the prestigious Marbella golf club Los Naranjos.

Photos: Tristan Jones (Aramco Team Series-Sotogrande)

Team champions Ignacio Morillo, Hayley Davis, Ashleigh Buhai and Stacy Bregman.

USA’s Alison Lee with her ATS trophy.

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EARTH’S FIRE

WA R M I N G U P YO U R O U T D O O R L I V I N G S PACE A new company specialising in the installation and design of bespoke firepits has been launched on the Coast. With outdoor living playing such a large role in the Costa del Sol lifestyle, firepits are a great way to enjoy the outdoors in a cosy and welcoming ambience.

Firepits have become so popular, in fact, that many developers of luxury new-builds install them as standard. They not only enhance your lifestyle, allowing you to enjoy the outdoors all year round, but they also add value to your home. Earth’s Fire director Steve Armstrong offers a free consultation and survey.

Tel. (+34) 951 121 317 / (+34) 711 047 967 info@earthsfireoutdoorliving.com www.earthsfireoutdoorliving.com

ALISON BETHELL-COLLINS

N E W D E S I G N S H OW R O O M I N S A N P E D R O D E A LC Á N TA R A Alison Bethell-Collins is a very well-established interior designer on the southern coast of Spain, working with a wide range of well-known and respected brands – with whom she has had long-standing business relationships. Now, Alison has opened a boutique showroom in the heart of up-and-coming San Pedro de Alcántara, just a stone’s throw from the boulevard.

Alison is highly experienced in managing design projects of all sizes, and her new showroom offers an extensive and diverse array of fabrics, wallpapers, artwork and interesting furniture pieces to inspire you.

Alison, who speaks English, Spanish and French, invites anyone interested in interior design to come by for a chat and peruse the showroom for themselves.

Avda. del Mediterráneo, San Pedro de Alcántara (Marbella) Tel. (+34) 627 487 364 www.alisonbethellcollins.com

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MDR LUXURY HOMES

B R I N G I N G A N E W YO R K-ST Y L E R E A L E STAT E S E RV I CE TO S PA I N Myriam De Roye, co-founder of Investo International, has launched MDR Luxury Property, a new real estate service aimed at the upper end of the market. MDR’s specialism is helping clients who are looking to buy and sell luxury villas in the €1 million-plus price bracket and in new developments in southern Spain.

As the first “Pro-Member” of New York real estate giant The Serhant Team operating in southern Spain, Myriam De Roye brings with her a unique corporate mindset while adhering to the famed high level of US customer service.

Tel. (+34) 663 329 202 myriam@mdrluxuryhomes.com mdrluxuryhomes.com

COOLDOT

E R G O N O M I C A LT E R N AT I V E F O R A N O F F I CE C H A I R : T H E F I T B A L L If you spend the majority of your working time sitting, you should consider replacing your office chair with a fitball – due to the many benefits it represents. Active sitting plays a crucial role in leading a healthy lifestyle. Not only does it relieve back pain but it also improves core strength, stability and movement, and essentially corrects your sitting posture.

CoolDot have developed an antibacterial fitball/sitting ball which is the ideal combination of design and comfort. It is made with antibacterial properties and a washable cover, and available in leather-like and premium leatherette materials, six colours and two sizes.

Tel. (+34) 627 848 332 info@cooldot.co www.cooldot.co

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FABRISOL KITCHENS

V E RSAT I L E D E S I G NS W I T H A M O D E R N TO U CH Fabrisol are highly regarded for creating functional, modern and versatile kitchens with the best materials – “to maintain them like the first day for decades”. Their 700 square metre showroom allows clients to walk around and be inspired by different kitchen designs that can be adapted to personal requirements and tastes, or designed and customised from scratch.

The store’s advisors can help with both the layout and the design, as well as the choice of finishes, storage options, accessories and appliances.

“When you have decided on your project, our technicians will prepare the kitchen furniture in our 3,000 square metre factory, and then install it in your home in the shortest possible time.”

For those who want to renovate a kitchen, professional assemblers take care of transport from Fabrisol’s factory and assembly at the client’s home, removing the old kitchen in the process.

In their furniture factory they can create tailor-made solutions for all types of spaces in the home and in commercial premises. “Our extensive experience in designing and manufacturing kitchen furniture allows us to create totally customised furniture.”

Avenida de Mijas 9, Mijas Costa Tel. (+34) 952 471 233 / (+34) 952 471 266 www.fabrisol.com

COLOMBINI CASA

TO P I TA L I A N B R A N D AVA I L A B L E AT TO R R E M O L I N OS S H OW R O O M The company behind the Colombini Casa showroom in Torremolinos was launched as a family initiative 23 years ago. Today, they are wellestablished in the sector. The company comprises interior designers, architects and professionals whose main objective, when bringing projects to fruition, is “to give our clients the opportunity to enjoy a home created from a foundation of pleasant spaces adapted to their needs”.

One year ago, they started a new initiative with the multinational brand Colombini Casa. This has enabled the company to continue to design customised projects after carefully analysing the users’ ergonomics, the home’s interior layout, and its fluidity with the exterior.

They offer a comprehensive “turnkey” concept, thanks to an extensive catalogue covering all spaces: kitchens, living rooms and relaxation areas, bathrooms and terraces. They also work at a macro-project level, giving life to a home, hotel or commercial property.

Calle de la Cruz 28, Torremolinos Tel. (+34) 951 241 840 / (+34) 699 363 938 torremolinos@colombinicasa.com www.colombinicasa.com

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UNCOM

N E W S M A RT H O M E CO M PA N Y L AU N CH E D O N T H E COAST Uncom’s new showroom in Guadalmina Alta offers all the latest cuttingedge products to make a home smart. So what is a smart home? People tend to understand the concept in different ways. Artificial intelligence or primitive control of basic functions – what is it really?

In fact, Uncom’s smart home is something else. It represents a control set for all devices and engineering systems according to a logical, finetuned scenario. The right system is designed and configured exclusively for the needs of the individual customer, and the house does what is expected of it, while saving energy and allowing the owner to avoid many routine daily activities.

With the modern levels of technology, the possibilities are endless. In Uncom’s showroom, clients are able to enjoy a pleasant and relaxing environment while discussing, with a friendly expert team, all the details of their new smart home.

Centro Comercial Guadalmina, Fase 4, Local 95, Marbella Tel. (+34) 951 669 083 / (+34) 611 661 363 www.uncom.es

M. DOMENECH

N OS M O K E F LOW E R P OW E R E L E CT R I C CA R Situated on the boulevard in San Pedro de Alcántara, long-established car showroom M. Domenech is the sole distributor for the fun and stylish NOSMOKE vehicle. NOSMOKE is a 100 per cent electric automatic car which can be driven by anyone from 16 years of age upwards.

It has a vintage look, is equipped with the latest technology and can reach a maximum speed of 70 kilometres an hour. It comes in an array of colours and additional options such as coloured wheel rims and upholstery, and customised bonnet and sidewall logos – plus much more.

Car showroom owner Miguel Domenech invites anyone interested in knowing more about this environmentally-friendly vehicle to visit the showroom and take one for a test drive.

Avda. Norberto Goizueta Daz, San Pedro de Alcántara (Boulevard), Marbella Tel. (+34) 609 028 602 www.autosdomenech.com

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H OW TO D E T E R M I N E T H E VA L U E O F I N H E R I TA N CE ASS E TS I N S PA I N

Spanish tax legislation establishes certain concepts common to the different taxes and duties. One of these concepts is what we call the “taxable base”, which for inheritance tax would be the net value of the assets and rights to be distributed to each individual beneficiary.

Before determining the individual net value that would correspond to each heir or legatee, we must determine the total amount of the assets, rights and obligations that form part of the inheritance in Spain of the deceased, to be distributed later.

Thus, Article 659 of the Spanish Civil Code establishes that “inheritance comprises all the assets, rights and obligations of a person, which are extinguished by his death”. This estate, or gross estate of a person after death, is made up of goods and rights (which would be the assets) but also of burdens and obligations (which would be the liabilities).

So, what assets form part of an inheritance in Spain?

Generally speaking, and merely for the purpose of giving an idea to readers, the assets and rights that may form part of the estate of a deceased person include the following: 1. Movable assets of special significance – assets that due to their special significance or value must be brought to the estate, such as jewellery, watches and works of art, all valued according to market criteria (i.e. what value these assets have on the market). Sometimes it is necessary to call in experts or appraisers to determine the value of these assets.

2. Other movable assets – shares, company shares, hire purchase, financial leases.

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that the deceased was the owner of the property (private contracts, deeds, supply contracts, etc.).

Any encumbrances on the real estate (easements, censuses, pensions) must be deducted from the value of the real estate in Spain (whether it is determined by its market value or its tax value). Mortgages in Spain, however, should be treated as debts, from the point of view of inheritance tax in Spain, and not as encumbrances on the real estate.

4. Bank accounts in Spain and financial assets – you need to check with any banks where the deceased had accounts and other financial products (deposits, instalments, shares, stocks and shares, etc.) and request certificates of the existing account balances on the date of death.

5. Vehicles – you need to consult the Directorate General of Traffic registers to find out if there are any vehicles registered in the name of the deceased.

6. Life insurance in Spain – it should be borne in mind that the amounts received from a life insurance policy in Spain never formed part of the assets held by the deceased at the date of death and therefore, in principle, they cannot be included in the estate or assets of the inheritance. However, the beneficiary of a life insurance policy must pay inheritance tax on the amounts received. If, in addition, the beneficiary is an heir, the amounts received from the life insurance will be added to the value of the assets and rights that form part of his or her percentage of the inheritance.

Welex Lawyers & Accountants C/ Ramón Gómez de la Serna 23, Local 7, Marbella Tel. (+34) 952 775 521 info@welex.es