KNIGHTSBRIDGE Magazine

KTHE magazine where luxury is defined

Welcome

Amazingly, it only took me almost thirty years of publishing luxury-lifestyle magazines to realise that I should create one for the most luxurious, fashionable, and vibrant area of London. Despite spending the first 15 years of my life in the UK living in Sloane Square, I never realised how truly incredible the area just down the (Sloane) street was.

This fact was fully-reinforced when we actually began the epic journey to launch this magazine. The community and businesses have been so positive, it’s incredible. A sincere thank you to everyone for their support and help - you’ll read about some of them in ‘Meet the Neighbours’ (p20) and other sections of the magazine.

To reinforce our fortunate position as an arbiter of everything Knightsbridge has to offer; the remit of KNIGHTSBRIDGE magazine is to showcase the world’s finest hotels, epicurean dining experiences, haute couture fashion, exquisite jewellery, luxurious international travel, elegant interiors, prime property, fabulous society parties, interviews and enlightening conversations with people who shape the world we live in, and, of course, test driving supercars, so buckle up...Welcome to Issue 1.

Azzy Asghar Publisher azzy@knightsbridgemagazine.com

From the Editor

Creating

this magazine has been a long time coming, and I’m delighted to welcome you to the launch issue of KNIGHTSBRIDGE. As you can imagine, I’m excited to edit and direct a magazine where Harrods, Harvey Nichols, and all the shops in and around Sloane Street are at its heart - not to mention the most amazing hotels, and restaurants.

Producing a magazine from inception was a daunting task. Thanks to the help of my team and the amazing people we’ve recently met in Knightsbridge, we have delivered what I think is a beautiful magazine that the area needs and deserves. I hope you love reading it as much as we’ve enjoyed creating it.

Feature articles in this issue include the development of the area by the Knightsbridge Estate and Knightsbridge Gate, Apple dropping into town, Dior’s incredibly lavish takeover at Harrods, an interview with Zuma’s founder Rainer Becker, news, events, profiles, and so much more.

In line with our international residents and visitors, our magazine will venture further afield to bring you the most luxurious content from Knightsbridge to Nepal. Your journey begins here... Welcome to Issue 1.

Christina Raptis Editor

christina@knightsbridgemagazine.co.uk

Advertising Enquiries: info@knightsbridgemagazine.com

All rights reserved. Nothing in this magazine may be reproduced in part or in whole by any means without the written consent of the publisher. Every effort has been made to ensure that all information is accurate at time of press. Publication does not necessarily mean endorsement. Prices and details subject to change.

Copyright KNIGHTSBRIDGE Magazine 2022 786

THIS MAGAZINE IS PUBLISHED BY WWW.THEALEXANDERGROUP.CO.UK

www.knightsbridgemagazine.com @knightsbridgemagazine

WHEN THEY ASK WHERE YOU’RE

THE WORLD

Each day aboard The World, you awaken in the most remarkable home you will ever own. As one of the few international adventurers who live this incomparable lifestyle, you explore each continent and sail every sea surrounded by unrivaled anticipatory luxury service and endless enrichment on board the only Ship of its kind.

FROM:

A LIFE OF DISCOVERY AT THE PINNACLE OF LUXURY

This is a lifestyle unlike anything else on land or at sea. Aboard the largest private residential yacht on Earth, your home lets you embark on a global journey to over 100 ports of call each year. Here, you are part of a unique international community of adventurers, sharing in daily fulfilling experiences both on board and ashore. Explore the most exotic and iconic destinations on the planet, then return to the luxurious comfort of your private Residence aboard the only Ship of its kind.

A JOURNEY OF INCOMPARABLE EXPLORATION

Navigating six continents and sailing every ocean –The World’s 2023 Journey will encompass the Indian subcontinent and the Middle East, odysseys across the isles of the Mediterranean and the fjords of Scandinavia, and once-in-a-lifetime expeditions in both the north and south polar regions. Residents will share in unique curated experiences across more than 100 fascinating ports – from bustling capitals and enchanting villages to ruggedly pristine shores and secluded isles of idyllic beauty.

COMFORT AND STYLE IN EVERY CORNER OF THE GLOBE

When you own a Residence on The World, you choose the only home that can take you on a global adventure. Each of our 165 Residences is privately owned, crafted in the vision of industry-defining designers and customized to suit your individual taste and style. Each day you’re surrounded by the sumptuous comforts that truly make this your home: your art, your wardrobe – even your wine collection. Begin the morning taking in the ever-changing scenery from your private veranda. Host your guests for a gourmet meal, prepared by you or by one of The World’s masterful chefs in your state-of-the-art kitchen. Then curl up in the comfort of your own bed before tomorrow brings another grand experience.

EXPERIENCE THE WORLD IN THE UNITED KINGDOM AND BEYOND

As a subscriber to KNIGHTSBRIDGE Magazine, you appreciate the ideal of fulfilling boundless wanderlust and lifelong immersive learning. Only The World makes this a reality. In 2023, The World will spend nearly an entire month exploring the United Kingdom, including landings in Avonmouth, Fishguard, Falmouth, Fowey, Dartmouth, Portsmouth, Tilbury and Greenwich. During this and other portions of the 2023 Journey, there will be limited opportunities available to join The World as a Prospective Resident, pending satisfaction of the minimum net worth requirement.

Availability of Residences aboard The World is extremely limited. If you are genuinely interested in ownership and would like to sample this lifestyle prior to purchase, please contact a Residential Advisor at ResidentialAdvisor@aboardtheworld.com or +44 20 7572 1231

THE

KNIGHTSBRIDGE ESTATE

Restoring soul to the heart of Knightsbridge

Many years ago, while on holiday in Bermuda, believe it or not, I almost got lost in the Bermuda Triangle while in a jet ski convoy and became separated from the others due to unexpected fog. Of course, some of the group claimed that I was not actually in the infamous triangle, however, surrounded by piranhas it was still quite daunting. The point is that no-one really knows where the infamous ‘Triangle’ begins or ends and thus it is, for me, with London’s most desirable and affluent area – Knightsbridge!

However, none could dispute that Knightsbridge is home to two of the world’s most famous department stores – Harrods and Harvey Nichols. Sandwiched snugly between these two glossy icons of international shopping sits The Knightsbridge Estate, a magnificent island site bounded by Brompton Road to the north and Basil Street to the south. Occupying 3.5 acres of some of the most desired real estate in London, this rare collection of properties, many of which date back to the 1800’s, today presents an elegant array of world class shops, inviting spaces to relax and eat, offices, and private residences.

Things looked very different however in 2010 when The Estate was first acquired by The Olayan Group. With an ambitious vision to transform The Knightsbridge Estate into a destination fit for the 21st Century, this multinational enterprise whose real estate holdings include other well-known historic properties in Europe and the US, notably the Paris portfolio, the Mandarin Oriental Ritz, Madrid, and 550 Madison in New York, set about undertaking the extensive – and often complex – redevelopment and modernisation work.

The intention of the owner from the offset was not just to restore the beauty of these architecturally important buildings, but to create a thriving community for both the area and its residents to shop, live, work, and eat. Assisted by asset and development manager Chelsfield, the result is a stunning mixed-use complex with a new offering and experience. Significant improvements to its public realm and transport infrastructure also formed a vital part of the grand plan. Since acquisition, buildings across The Estate have been modernised, creating light, modern spaces for retailers, shop fronts remodelled for a more architecturally sympathetic look, pavements widened for greater pedestrian safety and comfort and the retail mix upgraded to ensure its appeal to global premium and luxury retailers. This approach has succeeded in attracting a swathe of global luxury retail brands to The Estate’s shops along Brompton Road, as well as creating a new vibrant ‘food quarter’ in Hans Crescent.

The most important enhancement to The Estate has been taking place at the junction of Brompton Road and Sloane Street. Here architects Fletcher Priest were commissioned to create a mixed-use development that sits behind retained heritage façades, a distinctive characteristic of the area. The development includes seven landmark flagship stores, a brand new 6-storey Grade A office building and pocket square garden, a new roof-top restaurant and ground-level café and 33 luxury rental apartments.

“In addition to creating an iconic destination on The Knightsbridge Estate worthy of its illustrious heritage, we are also delivering a project that benefits the communities that surround it, as well as significantly improving the local transport and public realm.”

Jonathan Shelton, MD – Real Estate Europe, The Olayan Group

The Knightsbridge Estate

“Our ambition is to ensure The Knightsbridge Estate is a welcoming and enjoyable destination for visitors and residents alike. Our new F&B additions to Hans Crescent perfectly complement The Estate and the neighbourhood.”

Sarah Waller – Chelsfield’s Senior Asset Manager for The Knightsbridge Estate

Seven Flagship Stores

At the gateway to Knightsbridge, where Brompton Road meets Sloane Street, huge consideration has gone into the development of seven flagship stores behind restored facades, now providing worldclass retail space for global luxury and premium brands. A shared subterranean service yard and dedicated loading bay provides secure access and deliveries for tenants. Rationalising deliveries to a single point will have a beneficial effect on the local area, reducing traffic congestion and pollution.

In July 2021, luxury British brand Burberry became the first tenant to open its doors to its new flagship concept store at No.1 Sloane Street. This summer, Apple opened Apple Brompton Road. Its most sustainable store to date, the entrance to the new store sits on the site of the Brompton Arcade built in 1903. Over time, as more brands arrive and the roof-top restaurant opens, the vision for the northern end of The Estate will be complete.

“Everything about the design and build of the new flagship stores on The Knightsbridge Estate has been conceived for the world we live in today, ensuring this is a stand-out destination for the 21st Century. The Estate completely understands the needs of its demographic and the ways in which people want to shop, live and work, now and in the future. With its off-street services and magnificent setting and location, there is nothing to compare with The Knightsbridge Estate in prime central London.”

Jonathan Shelton, MD – Real Estate, Europe, The Olayan Group

A New Station Entrance to Knightsbridge Tube

The public benefits of the scheme are noteworthy. A great deal of effort was exerted to ensure that the redevelopment stayed true to the authentic 19th century facades that define the area. This included sourcing stones from the original quarries and matching brick clays and colours. A key factor in the success of the scheme was the relocation of the original entrance to the Knightsbridge underground station to create a new entrance on Brompton Road. Now located 100 yards to the west on Brompton Road, the new station, with its widened entrance and generous pavement frontage, allows both free-flow of pedestrian traffic and increased safety and access. Once opened, a second entrance located in Hooper’s Court will provide step-free access to Knightsbridge underground for the first time.

Knightsbridge Gardens

A new luxury residential scheme under development comprising 33 apartments for the rental market, forms part of the major redevelopment and restoration of The Knightsbridge Estate. Available from Spring 2023, Knightsbridge Gardens is set to be the most prominent offer to come to London’s luxury rental market and will echo the story of this prime postcode, its elegant architecture and rich history.

Occupying 45,000 sq ft, the new apartments wrap around a landscaped courtyard garden accessed via an orangery for the private

use of the residents. With a discreet entrance on Basil Street, the apartments draw their design vernacular from the architectural heritage of The Estate, guided by the design movements of the late 19th and early 20th Century from Arts and Crafts, Art Nouveau and Modernism to Art Deco. Complemented by flawless interior schemes by Taylor Howes Designs, the apartments will evoke a timeless sense of luxury, comfort, and style. With 24-hour concierge, valet parking and a club room, residents of Knightsbridge Gardens are assured a next-level lifestyle.

Creating a sense of community and maintaining a vibrant feel to the area was a fundamental decision that resulted in the apartments only being available for rent and not for sale.

“Situated in the heart of Knightsbridge with every amenity, service and convenience at their finger-tips and Hyde Park a short walk away, Knightsbridge Gardens’ lifestyle will be hard to beat.”

Sarah Waller – Senior Asset Manager for The Knightsbridge Estate

One Hooper’s Court

Occupying 67,000 square feet this light and airy office building will accommodate over 700 staff. Taking its cues from The Estate’s rich history it delivers an elegant hi-spec state-of the-art workspace for modern day work life. Designed by Fletcher Priest it preserves and extends the distinctive oxblood red tiles which characterise the nowrevealed original Leslie Green underground station. Its most distinctive design feature is a new façade of white vitreous enamel bearing an exquisite honeysuckle design celebrating John Hooper – the late 18th century market gardener after whom the court is named – which also features on the pretty tiled passageway linking Brompton Road to Hooper’s Court.

“This project is enormously important for residents, businesses, Londoners and international visitors to the city. Benefits include a relocated main tube entrance with wider pavements on Brompton Road, and a new step-free entrance on Hooper’s Court making use of existing abandoned shafts and tunnels. Nigh on 800 people will work in new workspace off a reinvigorated Hooper’s Court, the buildings will be fully occupied for the first time in many years and the remarkable streetscape revitalised.”

Keith Priest – Co-Founder of architectural practice Fletcher Priest.

Whether Knightsbridge begins at Hyde Park Corner and ends somewhere beyond Harrods is still a mystery to me. But I do know that Knightsbridge has always been at the very heart of prime residential and luxury shopping in central London. Through the redevelopment of The Knightsbridge Estate the area has been given a new lease of life ensuring the area offers both businesses, visitors and, most importantly, residents a feeling of pride and community.

www.theknightsbridgeestate.co.uk

Officially known as Apple Brompton Road, Apple’s newest store has opened in our bustling neighbourhood. Apple Knightsbridge – as we like to call it – features design inspiration drawn from the local flora of Hyde Park.

The new store offers advancements in sustainable design, community events and resources, and boasts a team of more than 200 staff ready to provide service to customers.

A close collaboration between Apple and Foster + Partners – the new Knightsbridge store is situated between luxury department stores Harrods and Harvey Nichols. The store is flooded with natural light from floor-to-ceiling arched windows.

Apple Brompton Road consists of a single floor, square footprint. The sevenmeter-tall volume features an undulating, timber ceiling and has four-meter-wide floor-to-ceiling arched windows that frame 12 towering Sicilian ficus trees which reference Hyde Park.

The tree-lined seating at the base of each planter becomes a visual feature as well as a social gathering space or resting area for visitors, blurring the boundaries between inside and outside while bringing

APPLE

DROPS INTO KNIGHTSBRIDGE

nature directly into the building. The natural light becomes dappled in appearance as it is filtered through the leaves and dances on the store’s interior surfaces.

The store’s curved timber ceiling reflects the existing geometry of the building’s historic façade.

Customers enter the store through the central arcade, mirroring the dimensions of the original Brompton Arcade, which was built in this precise location in 1903.

This central spine is defined by Castagna stone columns and four Ficus trees that also have seating at their bases.

At the end of the tree lined arcade sits the Forum – another focal point of the design which acts as a separate learning and event space – with a large video wall. The screen appears to float effortlessly on the surface with the audio equipment discreetly integrated into the stone walls. The Forum’s volumes are amplified by a mirrored ceiling which is made from a specialised stretched fabric, generating an uninterrupted reflective plane.

The ceiling’s integrated fixtures merge seamlessly with the timber panels, having been designed to match their colour and finish. A warm palette of materials has been carefully selected to create a calming and coherent environment for visitors and staff.

Stone, wood, and terrazzo complement the building’s exterior façade of bath stone and red brick.

The stores terrazzo flooring is comprised of plant-based bio polymers, the first of its kind in Apple’s worldwide retail fleet.

Collectively speaking more than 45 languages, the Apple team is ready to welcome customers from around the world. And in another first for the UK, a dedicated Apple Pickup area makes it even more convenient for customers to pick up products ordered online.

“We are thrilled to open Apple Brompton Road in London, a city teeming with energy, history, and cultural diversity,” said Deirdre O’Brien, Apple’s SVP of Retail and People. “The store’s focus on creativity gives our incredible team members the perfect space to share their passion and expertise with Londoners and visitors from around the world.”

Like all Apple facilities, Apple Brompton Road is powered by 100% renewable energy.

KNIGHTSBRIDGE GATE

Following a meticulous restoration spanning six years, Knightsbridge Gate (55-93 Knightsbridge) has been unveiled.

Built in 1902, the Grade II listed building, which was originally designed by architects WD Caroe for the Church Commissioners, retains its original Edwardian-style façade. Acquired by the APML Estate in 1996, the building had multiple uses until its redevelopment began in 2017. The building has been painstakingly restored to preserve the heritage and glamour of the property, which is often associated with this part of London. At 120m in length, the Queen Anne frontage is one of the longest façade retentions in the capital.

The scheme is located at the gateway to Knightsbridge, near Hyde Park’s southern border, as well as Harvey Nichols and Harrods.

“One of the great things about the development’s location is that it has two distinct sides. On one side you have the bustling international centre of Knightsbridge, but on the other you have quiet Belgravia.”

Mike Sadler, Director of APML

The mixed-use development offers 15 beautifully designed apartments, which have been fully fitted out to the highest specification and offer best-in-class residential accommodation along with c18,000 sq ft of Grade A office accommodation and 24,000 sq ft of retail. The scheme has 24-hour concierge and security, and secure underground parking for its residences. Many of the apartments benefit from south facing aspect towards Belgravia and the corner homes have views into Hyde Park.

Behind its original, imposing façade, is a completely modern construction. While the north elevation has been restored, the south façade is entirely new, featuring stepped pergolas and terraces. The development has been designed to allow each of the apartments’ principal rooms to overlook the remarkable landscape of Belgravia. Dixon Jones Architects was responsible for this hugely technical element of the project. The quality of finish and attention to detail enhances the scale and grandeur of the building.

MSMR Architects has led the transformation of the interiors, drawing on the Edwardian heritage of the building with contemporary

elements. A rich pallet of materials, colours, and textures combined with intricate detailing and bespoke joinery have created elegant interiors of the highest calibre.

“Knightsbridge Gate is arguably the best new address in town.”

Rupert des Forges

For APML Estate, Knightsbridge Gate represents the pinnacle of a 40 year history of investing in Knightsbridge and follows on from the hugely-successful office developments at 106 & 116 Brompton Road. “In terms of the quality of the materials and the finishes throughout the development we are in a league of our own” states Sadler. The difference here is in its boutique size. With fewer than 20 apartments in the development and more than one entrance, Knightsbridge Gate’s future residents won’t find themselves queuing for a lift or making unwelcome small talk. “Smaller developments offer more privacy,” continues Sadler. “You aren’t going to walk in and find loads of other people in the lobby. If you’re somebody who’s been living in a single residence and not used to sharing accommodation, it’s quite appealing.”

Rupert des Forges, Head of Prime Central London Developments at Knight Frank, commented: “Since APML Estate acquired the site, there has been a real sense of excitement and anticipation in the market, and an eagerness to see the finished product after so many years of meticulous restoration and development. Residents will enjoy an immaculate, highlytrained, front of house and concierge team, providing impeccable levels of service and security, whilst the building provides generous underground parking. There is no doubt this is a standout launch of the year, with buyers expected to come from the four corners of the globe.”

The boutique development has been delivered by the very best in design and construction, consisting of architecture by Dixon Jones, and construction by McAlpine.

Apartments at Knightsbridge Gate start at £9,995,000 and are now available via Knight Frank’s Prime Central London Developments team. www.apmlestate.com www.knightfrank.co.uk

ALL THE KING’S HORSES...

Knightsbridge is a bustling area within which a cacophony of sounds breaks the solitude of peace associated with magnificent Hyde Park. From expected sounds like those of scurrying shoppers, traffic, and the sometimes annoying sound of roaring supercars - there is one sound that is quintessentially Knightsbridge - that is the sound of the King’s Horses trotting back and forth from the barracks to numerous royal engagements.

The Hyde Park Barracks, the 33-storey building on Knightsbridge, is home to the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment and the Monarch’s Mounted Bodyguard. It is from here the Mounted Regiment carry out their Sovereign’s Escort duties, most commonly seen at the reigning Monarch’s Birthday Parade (Trooping the Colour).

The Household Cavalry is a union of the two most senior regiments in the British Army, The Life Guards and The Blues & Royals. It is divided into the Household Cavalry Regiment and the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment.

The Life Guards is the most senior regiment of the British Army and were formed by Prince Charles, later King Charles II, when he was exiled at the end of the civil war from loyal followers who travelled with him to Holland. This was between 1658 and 1659. Since their first action in the Battle of Maastricht in 1672, the Life Guards have won numerous battle honours, including Waterloo, Marne, Brussels and El Alamein The Blues and Royals were formed in 1969 when The Royal Horse Guards, and The Royal Dragoons merged.

The Household Cavalry Regiment is the operational unit, providing an armoured reconnaissance capability with state-of-the-art armoured fighting vehicles. Their soldiers are first and foremost armoured reconnaissance experts but also specialise in other battle-winning capabilities, including: snipers, anti-tanks, remotely piloted air systems, and information activity.

The regiment that most of us are familiar with is the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment. They are the ceremonial face of the regiment, conducting mounted state and public duties in London. Their prestige and horsemanship take them across the UK and the rest of the world on key international events, all whilst representing the Monarch and the Nation. Other occasions include important ceremonies that take place during State Visits by Heads of State, or whenever required by the British monarch.

Interesting Facts about the Hyde Park Barracks:

• 1795: Original Hyde Park Barracks constructed for the Horse Guards

• Her Royal Highness Princess Anne, The Princess Royal, is Colonel of The Blues and Royals.

• Prince William and Prince Harry have both served as ‘cornets’ in The Blues and Royals.

• The cleaning and maintenance of the uniform and horses black kit can take up to 10 hours, more than 4 hours for what the soldier or officer would wear, and 5 hours for items worn by the horse.

• There are around 235 cavalry black horses, 14 greys and four drum horses which make up the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment.

• The regiment gets through 200 tins of black polish every month.

• The horses carry 44 kilograms of kit and ceremonial uniform, as well as the soldier riding them.

• The regiment is fully self-sufficient. Within the walls of the Hyde Park Barracks, there’s everything a ceremonial soldier, and horse, might need is available to them. This includes the regimental Tailor Shop and a Saddler’s and of course Farriers.

Words: Alexander Jacobs

MEET THE NEIGHBOURS

Azzy Asghar visits three fabulously Knightsbridge is perhaps the most eclectic and wonderful area of the capital and what makes it so special are the residents. We meet a few of them and learn a little about their lives...

JACKIE ST. CLAIR

Jackie is a lifelong resident of the area. She is a passionate ornithologist who has created a large wildlife-friendly garden in her beautiful home complete with beehives, ponds, 47 bird nest boxes, hedgehogs and more. She invites Inner City children from social housing for a nature talk most days. She is also great friends with natural historian Sir David Attenborough.

Jackie and her husband Carl Michaelson also host the most magnificent and truly glamorous annual Summer Party in their garden for 300 guests, many from the world of entertainment.

MARIA ELENA INFANTINO

Maria Elena Infantino is an International Singer and Actress who speaks 5 languages fluently (Italian, French, Spanish, Bulgarian and English) and sings in 7. Half Italian, half Bulgarian, she grew up in Rome and is the daughter of two opera singers, tenor Luigi Infantino and soprano Raina Nikolova Infantino.

She graduated in acting at ALRA in London (Academy of Live and Recorded Arts) in 2010. Her first job out of Drama School was at the Royal Albert hall, singing for the 50th Beatles Anniversary, starring Dame Shirley Bassey. She then debuted as a professional actress on the ITV British series 'Emmerdale'.

Following that, in January 2011, she hosted and produced her one woman show in the West End, at the Leicester Square Theatre, as a tribute to her famous father, the tenor Luigi Infantino, performing her father's song, that was also in 'The Godfather part 2'. She was also nominated for the 21st annual L.A. Music Awards as best International artist.

Subsequently she created her one woman show on legendary Edith Piaf, which premiered in Los Angeles at the Marilyn Monroe Theatre, at the Lee Strasberg Institute. Among the many successes that this show generated for Maria, is the inauguration of the Piaf and Miles Davis forever stamp, celebrating the French Artist’s 50th Anniversary, at the Rubin Museum in New York.

EDA DOGAN

Charming, Knightsbridge resident Eda is the owner and creative director of BY EDA DOGAN, a jewellery brand which she founded in London in 2016. Born in Turkey, Eda established her refined taste for timeless jewellery and exquisite craftsmanship from an early age and set up her jewellery line at the age of only 19, shortly after arriving in London. Her international upbringing exposed her to both fashion and design and defined her classic, yet modern identity.

Eda creates timeless, gold, and silver jewellery pieces with a goal of speaking to every woman. The beautiful jewellery collection embodies Eda's modern, feminine spirit. www.byedadogan.com

PHILIP HANSON

Knightsbridge resident Philip is a young driver to watch, in the field of endurance sportscar racing. During his short career he has already smashed records and competed in prestigious races such as Le Mans 24 and Rolex 24 Hours, at Daytona. Phil was crowned World Endurance Champion; the youngest driver to achieve this, won the European Le Mans Series and was the youngest ever Brit to win the famed 24 Hours of Le Mans, in September 2020. He’s the first driver to ever win Le Mans and hold both the WEC and ELMS titles in the same year.

Phil says “I love Knightsbridge and feel privileged to live locally, it’s one of my favourite places in the city. It offers fantastic shopping and is local to a lot of restaurants and cafés that are all within short walking distances. Fitness is key to my job so I would recommend Equinox or Barry's Bootcamp in Eccleston Place a little further afield.”

NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH

ANNETTE FOULDS

LINLIN ZHANG

Knightsbridge resident, Linlin is a highly-motivated, next-gen entrepreneur focused on building beauty businesses. Hailing from China, Linlin originally moved to the UK to study Business and having a passion for beauty innovations she learnt all about the best techniques and procedures. Her life motto is “Don’t be afraid to dream”. She believes that with hard work dreams will come true. She broke into the beauty industry utilising her skills in innovation to develop a business that combines her passions of aesthetics, skincare, and wellness.

Linlin is the proud owner of Zenabia Medispa which she founded in late 2020 and is in the process of expanding to South Kensington and then Chelsea in 2023. She aspires to deliver the very best beauty treatments, providing her Knightsbridge clientele with cutting-edge technology. She also imparts confidence and relaxation to her growing band of loyal customers.

Contact Zenabia Medispa to book an appointment and receive 25% discount quoting “Knightsbridge Magazine” on 020 3773 2661 www.zenabia.com

Annette Foulds, better known as Annie is a 53 year old Endurance runner, Personal Trainer/Mental Certified/Charity Ambassador for Great Ormond Street Children’s Hospital and is currently studying to be a Life Coach. She is married to Stephen Foulds, a Brand Ambassador for Rolls Royce Motorcars, London for over 30 years. They have been together for 28 years and lived locally for 26 years and have two wonderful sons, Jack, 22 years old, a model with Next Model Management and Harry, 17 years old, a pupil at Millfield School – both are former pupils of Hill House School, Knightsbridge. Annie says, "For fun and charity, I have successfully completed some of the toughest running events in the world, taking me to the Sahara and South Africa. I have 89 finishing medals endured many setbacks, but I won’t be beaten! I remain happy, optimistic and strong!

Since starting my work here in Knightsbridge I have never looked back. During the past thirteen years I have met and trained some of the most amazing people who live in Knightsbridge, Kensington and Chelsea."

Tim is Managing Director of Draker Lettings, the owner of the largest privately owned boutique letting agency in Knightsbridge. The team at Draker are long- and short-term rental experts, serving Knightsbridge residents for over 12 years.

When Tim is not behind his desk in Sloane Square or valuing a client’s property, he is meeting clients and colleagues, either in Colbert (he practically has a desk there) at The Beaverbrook Townhouse or Harrys Dolce Vita.

With a second office at Pavilion, Tim can be seen striding up Sloane Street for meetings and team appraisals.

Tim says, “Always buy flowers from Alfie at The Flower Smith in Sloane Square, they are always the freshest. For all Apple lovers, the newly opened Apple Store on Brompton Road is out of this world and completes the recent development of the area perfectly.”

Tim can often be seen when not at work with his partner, Swedish interior designer Anders Olsson and their three beautiful whippets, Primo, Greta and Minnie.

TIM HASSELL

SAKSHI MITTAL

Scion of an internationally renowned family – the entrepreneur and local resident Sakshi recently launched FoodHak. Already transforming meal times with its vegan, ready-to-eat dishes delivered to your door, this ground-breaking new brand is at the intersection of technology, sustainability, food science and health. FoodHak takes all the clinical research on food and then combines this knowledge with ingredients renowned for healing properties to create great tasting dishes that will boost every aspect of the human body. www.foodhak.com

KIMBERLEIGH GELBER

Kimberleigh is a South African newsreader and television presenter who moved to London and New York for ITV and NBC contracts after many successful years entertaining children on a hugely popular television channel in South Africa.

One of her most talked about interviews was with President Nelson Mandela after his release from prison in 1990. The interview was unique as it was the first time a child had interviewed the iconic man and saw Kimberleigh winning many international awards for excellence in television.

When she left South Africa and moved to London, to host a travel show exploring exotic hotels around the world, her production company put her up at the Berkeley Hotel in Knightsbridge.

She had never been to London before so when she walked across the road to Hyde Park and saw the majestic swans roaming freely she knew this was special. When she sampled the endless food halls at Harrods, she knew she would be a Knightsbridge girl forever.

Her favourite store is Manolo Blahnik of which Kimberleigh has a vast and colourful collection of the iconic Hangisi heels which were made very popular in the show Sex And The City. Kim helped Darren Star, the shows creator, come up with ideas for season 1 in 1998 when they had no writers and no one was interested in the show as it was deemed far too edgy for television.

One of Kimberleigh's most talked about interviews was with President Nelson Mandela after his release from prison in 1990.

JANA JUNELE

Founder and Visionary of Wirk World, Jana is a meritocratic forward thinker and future-driven young female entrepreneur, with a never ending curious spirit and passion for perfection combined with the desire to continually redefine the limits of what is possible. Jana is ambitious for change on a global scale and is aiding digital and social transformation for future generations, especially for the gig economy that started in the heart of Knightsbridge.

Wirk platform has been carefully designed to break through the barriers of entry for those who are unable to receive education or find work. Wirk truly adapts Jana’s uniquely luxurious character and the strengths of being a problem-solving genius tackling this problem globally bringing new efficiencies to the labour and education market. Wirk’s mission is that no matter what country you are born in – good or bad, one should be entitled to free education and equal job opportunities.

DR MICHAEL PRAGER

Michael has been treating patients for over 20 years, being the trailblazer of the ‘natural look.’ Even in the early 2000s when ‘plastic fantastic’ was all the rage, Dr Prager specialised in enhancing his clients’ natural features.

His first clinic was founded in 2000 on Wimpole Street, but in 2015 the current clinic at 52 Beauchamp Place underwent a transformation into the state-of-the art practice it is now.

“I found Marylebone quite engineered, lacking the authenticity of Knightsbridge. The people here are real, and I’m ecstatic to be a part of them. I’ll never look back; Knightsbridge is the best place in London.” No matter what you’re after, from improving your skin to a vitamin & mineral infusion boost and more, you’re in amazing hands at the Prager Clinic. www.drmichaelprager.com

HUMPHREY PATON

I sat down with Humphrey at the Bulgari Hotel, Knightsbridge. Spontaneously, Humphrey tells me of his connection to Knightsbridge. He grew up in Hans Place and attended Hill House Prep School. He remembers with affection the patriotism instilled in him by the school through the late Colonel Townsend’s insistence that the students sing the national anthem and ‘I Vow to Thee My Country’ at every morning assembly. Humphrey says these memories were brought back into focus as he queued for our late HM the Queen’s Lying in State. After Hill House, Humphrey attended Winchester College and the University of Oxford where he studied Chinese – which he now speaks fluently.

After Oxford, Humphrey worked for a social media company in Chelsea led by the glamorous serial entrepreneur Una Liu. In his role he met many interesting Knightsbridge people including, Count Gaddo Cardini, Ciro Orsini, Fadi Saliba, Salt Bae and also covered, the 96 Club and classic car rallies and other events. Una taps into the new TikTok shopping phenomenon by connecting TikTok influencers to international brands. Humphrey has since moved on to pursue further studies.

MEET THE NEIGHBOURS

TREY PRITCHETT-RANDALL

Trey is a serial entrepreneur, intrepid world adventurer and property developer who was taught by her father from a young age the importance of hard work, dedication, and an entrepreneurial spirit.

She lived in Hong Kong and Australia for over a decade. Like her father, Trey believes education is of vital importance, especially for women and girls, and she enjoys sponsoring students in Uganda, India and Bangladesh and also mentoring the younger generation in the UK and around the world.

Since returning to England in the late 1990s, Trey has been a proactive property developer and landlady based in Knightsbridge. What started out as a hobby –acquiring and managing real estate – turned into profitable professional passion, as she built a portfolio of sensational properties in Knightsbridge and across the country. Trey’s area of expertise is identifying high-potential opportunities and developing finance and business strategies for a very UHNW elite clientele.

Please contact Trey for expert Knightsbridge property advice: trey@knightsbridge-properties.co.uk

MILLIE GRIFFITHS

Millie is a abstract painter working and studying in London. She is in her first year as an Undergraduate at Camberwell College of Arts, UAL and is currently on a journey developing her style. She began a project on the exploration of how to best showcase Surrealist Automatism 5 years ago and hasn’t stopped since. The current themes in her work include: time, memory and psychology and she has been using her Automatic drawing pieces from her sketchbook to inspire her paintings.

Griffiths’ practice has developed from her devotion to always painting outside. “I find I can enter a more meditative state once painting outdoors with nature around me.” In the journey of perfecting a balanced and exciting composition, once entered into a subconscious state while painting in abstract, Millie points her attention towards the union of colour, shape and form until she finds a sense of harmony, to then conclude its completion.

NATALIE REBEIZ

Playfully known as ‘The Caviar Queen’, Natalie COO of Caviar House, was born into a family of caviar pioneers which includes her late father Georges Rebeiz, famous for founding the company ‘Caviar House’ in 1950 and brother, Peter Rebeiz, current CEO.

Natalie was exposed to caviar from a very young age and was actively involved in the production from the age of 8. Natalie tells us of her disdain for caviar at this age, “My father always taught us that when we packed caviar, you must always try it beforehand to check the quality, but I hated it, I really hated it!”

Through Natalie’s childhood she would learn everything there was to know about caviar and grew to love the black pearls. She recalled the time she fell in love with caviar, aged 19. “I remember vividly, opening a 1.8 kilo tin of Beluga from Iran, and the smell was euphoric, it hit me, and I was in love.” Her goal would be to move to London and open the first shop in the UK. When Natalie was 20, she did exactly as she had set out to do… the first of many caviar shops were born. www.caviarhouse-prunier.co.uk

Stuart Geddes GM, The Lanesborough

Luxury is all about the details. This was the thought that was going through my mind as my Editor and I approached the imposing, neoclassical facade of the magnificent The Lanesborough, the five star hotel on Hyde Park Corner which is part of the Oetker Collection.

I had been told to ask for Jo Stevenson who would then call for and introduce me to their GM Stuart Geddes whom we were about to interview.

To my great surprise Jo was already in the lobby awaiting our arrival – as was Stuart – it’s all in the details!

This small gesture of respect immediately made us feel important and welcome and not just as if we were another appointment in their busy day.

We were escorted to the Library bar where coffees were requested. Stuart has a ready smile and once you spend even an hour with him, as we did, you’d realise it’s always ready to flash. This, combined with his easy manner took me quite by surprise. Surely the GM of one of the leading five star hotels in the world, who has previously worked at other stellar hotels including The Ritz and The Goring, would be more formal – perhaps even corporate – not at all!

The hour passed quickly as we exchanged stories of running, cycling, soldiers at the Hyde Park barracks, the Knightsbridge area and, oh yes, the Lanesborough!

Hi Stuart, So what makes The Lanesborough so unique and special?

The Lanesborough is a real masterpiece among London’s five-star hotels. Grand in its Regency Architecture and style, it is still very intimate in scale, with only 93 rooms and suites all of which are serviced by our elite team of Butlers catering for our guests’ needs.

With its residential-style, imposing fireplaces, it feels like a townhouse of the grandest scale, which is what Lanesborough aficionados love about it. From the Library bar with its intimate members club atmosphere, to a glamorous party in one of our private event spaces, or a cosy dinner in The Lanesborough Grill, our new Modern British concept restaurant, executed by Executive Chef, Shay Cooper to finish with a post-dinner cigar in The Garden Room with its heated cigar terrace, you are guaranteed sophisticated good times.

Our award-winning Lanesborough Club & Spa with its extensive gym, hydrotherapy pool, exclusive treatments with Ila, Tata Harper, Royal Fern, and HydraFacial is the ideal way to spend some down time and our proximity to Hyde Park opposite the hotel or a walk to Knightsbridge or Sloane Street makes it a perfect base to explore the nicest neighbourhood in London.

How is the Knightsbridge location important to The Lanesborough?

The Hotel and our Members Club & Spa are at the heart of the Belgravia/Knightsbridge community. Here we celebrate and support all the interesting characters, inspirational businesses, and the buzzing streets that make up this unique neighbourhood that we hold so dear.

What is your favourite area of the hotel?

The Library Bar to enjoy live music in the evening along with the buzzing club-like atmosphere.

What unusual requests have you had to cater to?

It never fails to impress me how our concierge team, led by Simon Thomas our Head Concierge, manage to make the impossible not only happen, but in great style.

You’ve lived across the world - what are your favourite places?

After living across the world, from the Pacific Islands to Africa, London is the place I truly call home. There’s nothing quite like Old Blighty.

How do you like to spend your free time?

After work I like to visit one of the many restaurants in the local area, and on the weekend, I love a long cycle through the Surrey Hills.

Azzy Asghar meets...

HOTEL HOTSPOTS

KNIGHTSBRIDGE HAS, ARGUABLY, SOME OF THE FINEST HOTELS IN THE COUNTRY, AND EVEN MORE JUST A ‘GEM’S’ THROW AWAY.

The Knightsbridge team check-in to a few, and see what’s new...

AFTERNOON TEA BY JESSICA PREALPATO THE CARLTON TOWER JUMEIRAH

THE LALEE - THE CADOGAN

We popped by the charming The Cadogan hotel for a quick lunch. The LaLee pays homage to one of the hotel’s most illustrious past residents, actress and socialite, Lillie Langtry. Reflecting her refined taste in European cuisine, the menu follows her travels around the grand cities of Europe. The menu is curated by Executive Chef, Chris Hill. Our favourite was the Moules Marinière with Frites - very European! We also enjoyed the Caramelised Onion Tart with Fig and Rocket which is a perfect-sized lunch to energise us for a day shopping on Sloane Street.

www.thelalee.co.uk

THE LANESBOROUGH - SUNDAY LUNCH

Despite

spending millions on a recent renovation, The Carlton Tower Jumeirah is always improving to make the guest experience that extra bit special. The latest change is the transformation of the bar adjacent to the lobby into a dedicated Afternoon Tea Salon and wow is it elegant. The wood-panelled room makes the taking of traditional Afternoon Tea even more special. Served on the finest floral china, guests are treated to a fabulous array of treats from one of my favourite pastry chefs, the beautiful, charming, and talented Jessica Préalpato. Jessica was the World’s Best Pastry Chef 2019 and Pastry Chef of the Year 2020 by Gault et Millau. Her very natural teas, sandwiches and pastries are inspired by the botanics and flora of iconic Kew Gardens in West London.

The Afternoon Tea offers a non-traditional menu with unexpected pairings. Creative sandwiches including, croissants filled with duck egg and black truffle, home-cured salmon with pine nuts, roasted turkey with stuffing are followed by a selection of 4 different flavoured scones with matching preserves and ends with a beautifully decadent array of pastries and cakes. www.jumeirah.com

The Lanesborough has launched a decadent new Sunday Lunch at The Lanesborough Grill, the hotel’s recently opened flagship Modern British restaurant with acclaimed British Chef, Shay Cooper at its helm.

The Sunday lunch centres around large joints of the finest quality British beef, expertly cooked to perfection, and carved at the table from ornate, antique trolleys alongside a generous selection of all the very best trimmings. The new menu also features a wide selection of Shay’s best loved, modern British dishes, featuring produce that has been lovingly selected from handpicked artisan suppliers from across the country.

Signature Sunday Lunch dishes include, Dorset crab with buckwheat pancake, Isle of Wight tomatoes and lovage emulsion; Roast sirloin of Hereford beef with horseradish and apple cream, Yorkshire pudding and roast potatoes; Beef Wellington with salt-baked carrots and red wine sauce; and Scottish halibut with courgette blossom, red shrimp, and a light herb emulsion. www.oetkercollection.com

HOTEL HOTSPOTS

ART AT THE BULGARI

Bulgari

Hotel London has launched a collaboration with acclaimed multidisciplinary artist and designer Yinka Ilori. The contemporary Italian hotel commissioned the London-based British-Nigerian artist and designer to re-imagine the afternoon tea stand as a sculptural work of art in celebration of its 10th year in London.

The launch of the Yinka Ilori X Bulgari Hotel London Afternoon Tea last month coincided with the opening of Yinka’s first institutional show at the Design Museum. Yinka’s playful designs enliven the public realm using his signature combination of colour and pattern, and his window façade of geometric designs and bold visual style at Bulgari Hotel London will be instantly recognisable.

Afternoon tea pastries inspired by Yinka’s anniversary design for the hotel are created in collaboration with the artist by awardwinning Italian pastry chef and chocolatier-inresidence, Gianluca Fusto.

Available Monday to Sunday from 2pm to 5pm. Advance bookings only - from £95pp. www.bulgarihotels.com

GROLET AT THE BERKELEY

One of the world’s best pastry chefs has opened his first patisserie outside of France, Cédric Grolet at The Berkeley. The chef’s worldrenowned creations are available to takeaway, including Grolet’s famous trompe-l’oeil, fruit and flower cakes. The patisserie – which is almost lab-like in its aesthetic with touches of gold – is designed by renowned interior designer Remi Tessier and has a central focal point: The Chef’s Counter which hosts a globally exclusive dining experience inside the lab, is set to wow Londoners and beyond.

The chef has unveiled ‘Goutea’, Grolet’s fusion of goûter (the French tradition of sweet snacking) and best of British afternoon tea. Served daily at 12pm, 2pm, and 4pm - £85pp www.the-berkeley.co.uk

amazing to me how many people tell me that their favourite neighbourhood 5-star hotel is The Hari.

Could it be its location in the heart of Belgravia, the personal service that only a small boutique hotel can deliver, or the talented and attentive team led by their charming GM Andrew Coney? As welcoming as Andrew may be – the hotel has to stand on its own feet, and it does so admirably.

There’s a cool bar with stylish bookcases –which incidentally inspired the decor of my very own home (Andrew mentioned something about copyright issues but after another glass of champagne, luckily he forgot!). The bar is perfect for getting together with friends or just relaxing with small bites and your favourite cocktail.

Il Pampero, their Italian restaurant, is superb for both business and social events and serves food all day long.

The bedrooms are beautifully appointed with plush upholstery and Arabescato marble – truly decadent! Add to this their innovative and very generous new The Hari Art Prize which discovers and highlights new talent – well if anyone knows talent!

www.thehari.com

CEDRIC

It’s

Azzy Asghar visits THE HARI

The Adria, 88 Queensgate London, SW7 5AB United Kingdom www.theadria.com

So, What’s Cooking?

Of all the numerous establishments that have graced the restaurant at The Carlton Tower Jumeirah – the newest, Al Mare, is probably the most elegant and sophisticated in every manner. The large dining room with a dedicated bar, also accessed via a separate entrance off Cadogan Place, is a sumptuous space, with crisp white linens, plush banquettes and cushions which announce special occasion before you even take your seat to embark on the culinary journey that awaits.

As the Italian name suggests this restaurant is dedicated to the freshest seafood under the expert guidance of chef Marco Calenzo. The service is slick without being overbearing and their team ensures your experience is sublime.

Chef Calenzo adds his touch – very lightly – to maintain the foods natural flavours, to dishes that include: Mediterranean bluefin tuna, oscietra caviar & orange ponzu; rare breed 30-month slow-cured ham & pickled artichokes; pasta of king crab, fusilli with basil pesto, tomato & balsamic vinegar is incredible. Main courses include a show-stopping table-side presented Sea salt crusted wild seabass for two with crushed potato and salmoriglio. For the carnivores, a tender dry-aged Herefordshire beef tenderloin, with spicy rainbow chard is heavenly.

Sadly, we didn’t visit the bar although we saw numerous eye-catching cocktails being skilfully created. The wine, which we did enjoy, was one of many on a carefully-conceived wine list that has both classics and a few great additions. www.jumeirah.com

Thenew late-night dining concept at Harrods includes all six restaurants in the Harrods Dining Hall and allows customers to enjoy dinner until 11pm from Tuesday to Saturday. Featuring a mouth-watering selection of the freshest ingredients and produce available, the Dining Hall is made up of six diverse and indulgent restaurants including: The Grill, Pasta Evangelists, Kerridge’s Fish & Chips, Kama by Vineet, and our favourite Caviar House & Prunier

A close second – you can only have so much sushi and champagne, is the fabulous The Sushi Bar. Here, with Head Chef Eran Low, a sushi master with over 20 years’ experience, at the helm, the restaurant offers a fantastically wide range of fish and seafood served with a few signature twists. As well as specialty nigiri and sashimi, menu highlights include kabayaki of eel with foie gras, tiger-prawn tempura with caviar, and tataki of Wagyu beef. www.harrods.com

AL MARE - THE CARLTON TOWER JUMEIRAH

Azzy Asghar dines at some fabulous neighbourhood restaurants...

THE SUSHI BAR - HARROD’S

AT THE BULGARI

Itry to teach my children that it’s not good to play favourites - but Sette could be my favourite Italian restaurant in London and, (excuse the pun), I’m not kidding! That is quite a statement as, I’m sure you’re aware, the capital has some of the finest restaurants in the world! However, on all counts - Sette delivers.

Located within the sophisticated Bulgari Hotel, although also accessed via a dedicated entrance on Knightsbridge Green, the elegant restaurant ticks every box of: setting, decor, service and especially in its culinary masterpieces.

Sette is the London restaurant from New York City’s Scarpetta restaurant family. It serves authentic Italian food, as it does in Manhattan, with its own inimitable flair. The term Scarpetta is derived from the Italian tradition ‘fare la Scarpetta’ which means to indulge in a meal down to the very last taste!

We were so impressed after our first visit a few months ago that we recently returned to ensure we weren’t in some sort of culinary coma and in fact the food was as special as we had all remembered. Indeed it was! Pasta dishes include the Lobster Tagliolini, acquapazza, fresno chili, tomato, spicy basil breadcrumbs, a delicious Ricotta Cavatelli with oxtail ragu, gremolata, or a Short Rib and Bone Marrow Agnolottti with garlic chip, horseradish and, of course, their renowned Scarpetta classic - Spaghetti with Tomato and Basil. Their main courses include a Black Cod with caramelized fennel, concentrated tomatoes which melts in your mouth, or a Wagyu Strip Steak with smoked mushrooms, roasted Brussels sprouts, cipollini agrodolce and beef jus which is equally as tender and succulent.

Each dish is truly a culinary masterpiece which you will savour - until the very last taste!

www.settelondon.co.uk

It seems to me that the word fine-dining is almost as over-used and misappropriated as the word luxury. However, there are very few places, outside the five-star hotels, that combine both as well as the legendary, Mosimann’s Club. Located in the heart of Belgravia, within a converted 1830s church, Mosimann’s at The Belfry is a private dining Club unlike any other in the world. The discreet restaurant/club is, named after legendary Swiss chef Anton Mosimann (OBE), who at the age of 28 was Maitre Chef des Cuisines at the Dorchester Hotel and holder of two Michelin Stars.

The club has been a family run business for over 30 years and is the holder of a Royal Warrant by Appointment to HRH The Prince of Wales for Catering Services since 2000. It is now run by his two sons, Philip and Mark, who continue to uphold both the traditions and excellence synonymous with the venue. Very fortunately, I have been invited on numerous occasions by member-friends and have relished every opportunity to dine in this very exclusive restaurant.

The food and service, as you would expect, are exemplary. What surprised me most on a recent visit is the labyrinth of exquisite private dining spaces on offer to guests and non-members for private events. Each of the seven rooms is a hidden treasure to explore. Rooms are decorated with elegant fabrics, glass, metals, and artwork. Each are designed by luxury brands which in turn have added their individual mark creating distinctly different vibes to every space. And then, of course, there’s the Silver Animals…visit and discover!

www.mosimann.com

SETTE

So, What’s New?

Knightsbridge has long been a magnet to the great and good. To reinforce this, one of the world’s most critically acclaimed chefs and culinary icons, Björn Frantzén, has just launched Studio Frantzén at Harrods. A restaurant, rooftop terrace and bar spanning two floors within the world’s most iconic department store. Studio Frantzén is presented as a neo-Nordic concept infused with Asian influences.

Björn Frantzén is one of the worlds’ most renowned chefs, holding six Michelin stars across a growing empire of restaurants and culinary experiences - Studio Frantzén marks his first foray into the UK market. His eponymous restaurant in Stockholm, Frantzén, holds three Michelin stars, and is No.25 on the World’s 50 Best List 2022.

The 112-seat restaurant is a must-visit culinary destination that offers a curated à la carte menu, with additional seating available on Studio Frantzén’s mezzanine and terrace. Remaining true to his roots, Frantzén has created a menu with influential touches, defined by distinctive modern flavours and texturised yet refined cooking that emphasise the raw flavours, seasonality, and purity of each ingredient. His style is underpinned by an undeniable level of knowledge and an impeccable service and style that is present but never pretentious.

So, What’s Shaking?

Nick Valentine charges his glass at Control Room B in the newly-opened Battersea Power

Station

The Inception Group’s latest addition to its highly-stylised plethora of bars; which include the Mr Fogg’s collection, Bung Bunga and The London Gin Club, is Control Room B. A 50s-themed cocktail bar with a soundtrack to match, built around the old control room of the recently opened, £9 billion regenerated Battersea Power Station, which in turn towers benevolently above 19 acres of recreational and shopping facilities.

This turbine-inspired, all-day venue features, all the station’s original

A carefully curated Nordic inspired drinks menu is served inside a bar and restaurant area that has been custom-designed and custom-built within Harrod’s top two floors. The interior design exudes a contemporary yet luxurious interpretation of Scandinavian style. A rooftop terrace – the first to be custom built on the London landmark – provides panoramic views across London. www.harrods.com

switchgear racks and dials, which previously powered vast swathes of London, including: Buckingham Palace and the Houses of Parliament, surrounding a slick central bar with ample seating.

Boiler-suited staff serve an array of ‘high-voltage’ cocktails, champagnes, spirits, and stomach-lining light snacks and pastries, which all pay homage to the space’s electrical heritage. Private hire is available for 50 to 180 guests.

Upon our visit, I was immediately drawn to the ‘Existential Rebel’, excited to channel my inner Camus before realising it was actually a non-alcoholic cocktail, this posed an existential crisis in itself. The ‘Synchroscope’ came to my rescue however, with its combination of gin, ginger and lemongrass cordial, pear puree, lemon verbena liqueur and cloudy apple juice, a far more fitting drink for the angst-ridden, authentic Outsider I conclude.

My colleagues went for the ‘Gas Wash’, a tropical tasting, vodka, passion fruit and bergamot liqueur-based comforter and a ‘Battery Licker’, a rum, Disaronno liqueur, coffee and orgeat syrup sharpener, served with a chocolate teaspoon. So a neat side-step into surrealism there.

The sharing signature, ‘Battersea Power Station’ a gin, cherry liqueur, pomegranate and pineapple juice concoction, topped with spumante, hydrates three to four ‘engineers’ or as I suggested one ‘bright spark’ in a hurry. Roll over Benjamin Franklin. www.controlroomb.com

Multi-Michelin-Starred Chef Björn Frantzén launches Studio Frantzén at Harrods

ZUMA

Rainer Becker

“I am very proud to be celebrating Zuma’s 20th Anniversary this year.  I chose London as the home for Zuma as it was and is, in my opinion, the most cosmopolitan and culinary-diverse city in Europe.”

Christina Raptis meets Chef, Restaurateur, Visionary... MR RAINER BECKER

Zuma

is hot in London, Zuma is hot in Dubai, Zuma is hot in Ibiza, Zuma is hot in Las Vegas, actually Zuma isn’t so much hot as it is Cool! No matter which of Zuma’s 20 restaurants you visit across the globe – there is a common factor – absolutely fabulous cuisine, a party atmosphere, and a crowd... a very big crowd!

And at the centre of it all, replicating and maintaining that level of success for 20 years has been down to the vision of one man –Rainer Becker. Starting with the first restaurant in Knightsbridge, the Zuma brand continues to grow at an incredible pace.

I first met Rainer at the opening of their newest outpost in the Maldives! He is bronzed and relaxed, with an easy manner and a big ever-present smile.

As we sit on the glorious, white sand beach of the Waldorf Astoria resort on the island of Ithaafushi, Rainer is beaming with pride on the group’s latest opening. Devoted fans (and the press) have flown in from across the globe to witness the opening which naturally turns into the biggest party the island has ever seen!

Back in London, we meet at Zuma for our interview. Rainer, of course, attributes his success to his team and staff. We meet Natalia, the General Manager of Zuma London who has been at that restaurant for 18 years – now that’s either incredible loyalty to a boss you love working for or she just loves sushi so damn much!

Rainer is a trained chef and began life at some of Germany’s top Michelin-starred restaurants, including the Königshof in Munich.

He was named Harpers and Moet Chef of the Year in 2004, the Guild of Chefs Awards named him Best Newcomer in 2003 and he achieved 45th place in The Caterer’s top 100 list of the most powerful people in hospitality in 2012.

Rainer had always wanted to become a chef. “I think it was always a dream and I really love to cook. I remember telling my parents I wanted to cook but my father didn’t see it as a career option. After a summer working at a relative’s restaurant, I was hooked. Seeing that, my father gave me his full support.”

Rainer mastered his trade in Sydney and Tokyo before moving to London in 1998. He worked as executive chef at the Hyatt Carlton Tower and was a consultant at the uber-stylish Hakkasan restaurant.

Eventually, he launched Zuma in Knightsbridge in 2002 with his business partner Arjun Waney.

Zuma celebrates the informal izakaya style where dishes are continuously brought to the table throughout the meal – something he learned from the casual dining experiences he witnessed in Australia and combined it with the fabulous food and beautiful design elements of Japan. Rainer is also behind the Roka restaurants and Oblix at The Shard.

It seems all my travel plans are based on the fabulous locations of Zuma restaurants across the world and with plans for numerous Zuma restaurants to open in the next few years, I better ensure my passport is handy!

www.zumarestaurant.com

THE AUBREY

Now this might sound more like an introduction to a Japanese language class than a review of a fine-dining restaurant but before we begin there are two Japanese concepts that one needs to be familiar with if you’re not already. The first is my favourite – and something I have engaged in at restaurants for most of my adult life before I even knew the word existed – and that is the tradition of Omakase.

Omakase is a form of Japanese dining in which you leave your food selection to the chef – thus allowing him to showcase his culinary skills and also serve the best and freshest seasonal ingredients.

The second is izakaya. The Japanese word izakaya is made up of three kanji with the meaning, in order – stay-drink-place – a venue to grab a drink, settle in, and get comfortable and believe me there are few places that are as elegant, stunning and welcoming to stay, get a drink and relax in as The Aubrey. To simplify things, izakaya is perhaps better described as a Japanese tapas bar.

Located in the heart of Knightsbridge within the fabulous Mandarin Oriental hotel – The Aubrey occupies the site once home to the much-vaulted Bar Boulud. As sad as I was to see the genius of NYC chef Daniel Boulud and his burgers leave London, The Aubrey is a more than stellar replacement and luxe Japanese food and cocktails are hard to come by and few do it as well as it is done here.

Our evening began with a cocktail in the bar which includes a maze of intimate rooms adorned in velvet, marble, and wood. Comfortable spaces to relax with ambient lighting include a library, the salon and curio lounge, each has been designed to suit a variety of moods and occasions with music until the late hours. Bar Director Pietro Rizzo took us on an omakase cocktail experience with inventive creations akin to those that feature in traditional restaurants in Japan – not a bog-standard Bloody Mary or Whiskey Sour in sight!

We were then escorted into the dining room which has been transformed into an elegant space with original gold-framed Ukiyo-e print artwork adorning the walls and a sense of calm, elegance, and sophistication permeating throughout.

The food menu draws on the classical techniques of Edomae sushi, tempura and robata – an interpretation of the philosophy of a traditional izakaya. The concept – my favourite – is one of communal small dishes for all to enjoy. Share, share that’s fair!

We began with the sushi and sashimi selection which was superb and as good as any served anywhere in London and beyond.

A taste of Japan in the heart of Knightsbridge

This was followed by the most succulent oysters with classic chili daikon & ponzu, however, the very, very tempting caviar selection was overlooked in favour of paying my mortgage this month! The tempura offering is beautifully delicate and, for our main course, as an epicurean I am always drawn to the robata grill and, of course, wagyu. Their wagyu oxtail and bone marrow fried rice is an exercise in indulgence and excess that has to be savoured. While the Alaskan King Crab Leg with kimuchi from the robata is so decadent that it should be saved for your deathbed final wish. As you would expect the wine list is internationally-sourced and exceptional. For oenophiles wine pairings are offered to match the food exquisitely.

The exceptional food was enhanced by service which is rarefied in London and I’m extremely grateful to Jaime, Christian and the fabulous Leo for making our evening so very special. Our Aubrey experience was truly Subarashii – which is the Japanese word for amazing/wonderful – and thus concludes your Japanese lesson!

The Aubrey Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park 66 Knightsbridge, London SW1 T: 020 7201 3899

STARS IN THEIR CARS

Ihave an old maxim where I tell my friends who try to namedrop that I’m not that impressed when they let me know that they ‘met/had dinner with Tom Cruise, Madonna or Brad Pitt’, etc. I always say it’s only truly impressive when Tom, Madonna, or Brad say they ‘met/had dinner with you’! And thus it is with ‘paparazzi’ photographers – the fact that they meet some of the world’s biggest stars might give them some stock – but what sets Richard Young apart from the throng is that the stars actually all know him! Not to be said lightly, but he truly is both a pioneer and legend in his own time!

I first met Richard in the early 90s. I was with a PR guru who was escorting one of her many illustrious clients, in this case, Adnan Khashoggi, to a remote theatre in Camden where his truly-beautiful daughter, Nabila, was performing in a onewoman play. Where the elite of the world go, so does Richard Young – camera in hand! Capturing a glimpse of their lives and creating a living portfolio of them on film – both candid and uncontrived.

A career that has spanned almost 40 years began through a fortuitous accident when he was given a Nikon camera to take photographs which would illustrate a book by Welsh author John Cowper-Powys. A few months later and, again very fortuitously, Richard met the grandson of the oil magnate and America’s richest man, John Paul Getty.

Infamously, Getty’s grandson, Paul Getty Jr was kidnapped by the ‘Ndrangheta in Rome. Upon his release and back in London – Getty, who was missing an ear thanks to the kidnappers, was in incredibly high demand by the world’s press for an interview about his ordeal. Paul asked Richard to take pictures of him and his girlfriend around London and the subsequent photos were sold to the Evening Standard newspaper. Thus, his lifetime passion and glittering career came to fruition.

Richard’s work has appeared in almost all of the world’s media and in 2013 his ‘Freddie Mercury at home’ portrait was inducted into the National Portrait Gallery. Numerous exhibitions,

several best-selling books, and an international reputation have cemented Richard’s status as the world’s pre-eminent celebrity photographer.

Quite frankly, when we’re asked to attend an event and Richard is not present with his camera, we quickly realise that, sadly, we’re not at the best party in town!

And so today, almost 25 years later, we are sitting in his wonderful gallery on Holland Street in exclusive Kensington and reminiscing about his illustrious career. Richard is joined by his lovely wife Susan who has the very unenviable task of running the empire behind the scenes and managing and cataloguing his literally thousands upon thousands of photographs. As Richard tells stories of various people and events he has shot, it truly is hard to concentrate on what he is saying. I try to focus but my attention is continually drawn away by the incredible framed photographs that grace the walls of the gallery. Princess Diana in the Royal carriage, Mick Jagger puffing on a cigarette, Freddie Mercury on stage at Wembley, Princess Margaret at Annabel’s, or Jack Nicholson with Faye Dunaway – everywhere I look is an iconic image that captures history, a fleeting moment that may seem innocuous but thanks to the skill of the photographer –capturing both the mood and scene – it becomes an iconic piece that will live on forever!

The following pages – ‘Stars in their Cars’ is just a minuscule selection from his truly amazing archives which span many decades. All these pictures and so many more are available to purchase at the gallery below or online.

4 Holland Street, Kensington, London W8

T: 020 7937 8911

www.richardyounggallery.co.uk @richardyoung110

Azzy Asghar visits legendary photographer Richard Young’s gallery

Richard Young Gallery

Diana, Princess of Wales, London 1981

Debbie Harry, The Sanctuary, London 1981

Sammy Davis Junior, London 1982

Queen Elizabeth II, The Queen Mother and Paul Burrell - Derby Day, Epsom 1987

Harrison Ford, London 1980

Faye Dunaway, London 1981

Al Pacino - Outside Joe Allen’s, Covent Garden, London 1984

Richard Young is one of the most important photographers who chronicled the twentieth century, he is, himself, one of the most important photographers of the twentieth century and beyond!

Jack Nicholson, Langan’s Brasserie, London 1981

Elton John, Langan’s Brasserie, London 1981

Dolly Parton, London 1983

Michael Jackson, The Mayfair Hotel, London 1988

Jerry Hall and Mick Jagger, London 1987

Richard Burton, London 1982

THE FABULOUS WORLD OF DIOR...

THE FAIRYTALE WORLD OF CHRISTIAN DIOR

The French fashion titan that is Dior, is turning the great British institution that is Harrods, into a spectacular mise-en-scène of its world. The Fabulous World of Dior is a magnificent celebration of the 70-year bond between the two establishments.

In 1926, aged 21, Christian Dior spent a year in Britain to learn English, he promptly became an ardent Anglophile and subsequently embellished his new love affair with the English into his couture.

In 1950, not long after the establishment of his eponymous fashion house, Monsieur Dior held a secret presentation of his Spring/Summer Collection at the French Embassy in Knightsbridge; several distinguished guests attended, including Princesses Elizabeth and Margaret. Only three years later, the Christian Dior corner opened in Harrods and Monsieur Dior chose the prestigious store to present his 1954 Spring collection. Up until his death in 1957, Monsieur Dior named many of his designs after well-known British icons: for example, the Dior ‘Dickens’ coats in 1949. Even long after his death his Anglomania penetrated the hallowed haute couture brand when, in 1996, John Galliano became Creative Director of women’s fashion and milliner Stephen Jones, head of Dior hat creations and later, another British designer, Kim Jones, became head of Dior Homme.

In 2019, only a stone’s throw from Harrods, the Victoria & Albert Museum held a ravishing retrospective of the maison which included 200 items from the archives.

Dior and Britain is a love affair that I can perfectly understand. As part of my French degree, I spent a year in Paris and three months of that working in the Dior press office at 30 Avenue Montaigne. During those months I discovered a dreamy and whimsical paradise like nothing I had ever experienced before. The press office ‘wardrobe’ was a world in itself, samples of the latest prêt a porter collections waiting to be sent around the world for magazine photoshoots, displaying Galliano’s fantasy fashion: asymmetrical dresses and skirts emblazoned with over-the-top prints; provocative denim; lace-up logo boots; saddle bags and saddle skirts; furs, leathers and silks. I discovered the Lady Dior –a handbag beloved by the late Diana, Princess of Wales. I tried on Victoire de Castellane’s early collections of Dior Joaillerie, learning that jewels weren’t just two strands of pearls and a sapphire engagement ring (some my mother’s) – they could be as wonderful as anything seen on the catwalk – oh yes, and I attended my first, haute couture show.

When I finally left to go home to the English countryside, my brilliant boss gave me a bottle of J’Adore (which perfectly summed up my Parisian sabbatical!) and as I so ‘adored’ the golden choker and bracelet worn by Carmen Kass in the first few campaigns, I was gifted those too. It was the summer of the new millennium, and I had fallen in love.

Words: Josie Goodbody

Top: Madame Massigli, wife of French Ambassador in England, inaugurates the Dior Room at Harrods, 1954.

This is not the first time Dior has had a prominent position in Harrods. In 2013, there was a pop-up store, a tearoom, and an exhibition about the historic brand. Pietro Beccari, CEO of Christian Dior commented on the store’s legendary end-of-year events, “We have never led a collaboration of this scale with a department store”.

Arriving in Knightsbridge, Harrods’ famous façade is impossible to miss, emblazoned with a monumental installation of the compass rose – in homage to Monsieur Dior himself, who so treasured the symbol. Other Dior emblems include the Dior gold star, the Bar jacket and the Medallion.

Each of Harrods’ 44 famous windows is dressed for a journey through the world of Dior, from fashion to fragrance, to fine jewellery as though made from gingerbreads, candied fruit and caramels. 30 Avenue Montaigne, opened in 1946 by Monsieur Dior as the home of the House of Dior and recently redesigned by legendary designer Peter Marino, is there for all to see – resplendently recreated in gingerbread. A Baby Dior window has a giant polar bear teddy pushing a wagon, another has miniature models of the famous New Look dresses in re-imagined dressing rooms. More models of dresses are seen in a spectacular display which includes handbags and shoes. There is also a gingerbread house with each window presenting an iconic bottle of fragrance.

Inside there is an outstanding exhibition tracing the history of the brand; an installation showing how the famous Lady Dior handbag is crafted; the Dior Spectacular Beauty Pop-up on the ground floor includes the Dior Advent Calendar; from December 15th on the second floor there will be a personalisation pop-up with the embroidery and engraving of gifts. There are also exclusive collections created for the event – a new design of the Dior Book Tote, Lady Dior Bag, and garments. And once you have exhausted yourself, the Dior Café will refresh and replenish you.

The Fabulous World of Dior at Harrods 10th November 2022 - 3rd January 2023

© James Robjant

DIOR

Thebe Magugu and CTAOP Pleated Skirt £4,400 www.dior.com

FREYA ROSE

Cher Noir Limited Edition Jewelled Heels £895 www.harveynichols.com

DITA

LXN-EVO Sunglasses £845 www.dita.com

NADINE MERABI

Lottie Champagne Dress £495 www.nadinemerabi.com

And, Of Course, Doing It With Bags Of Style

MULBERRY

Amberley Clutch Two-Tone Croc £710 www.mulberry.com

LALAGE BEAUMONT

Dulcie Cashmere Wool Mix Coat £1,450, Phoebein Ivory Trousers 100% wool £599, Fonteyn Large Bag in Stone Orinoco Printed Calf Leather £850

BURBERRY

Quilted Metallic Leather Mini Lola Bag £1,150 uk.burberry.com

www.lalagebeaumont.com

AQUAZZURA

Black - Crystal-Embellished Plexi Tequila Sandals 105 £950 www.harrods.com

LALAGE BEAUMONT

Fonteyn Mignon - Orinoco Croc Print £650 www.lalagebeaumont.com

adaMo

a World of luxury fashion

My favourite thing about being the Editor of KNIGHTSBRIDGE magazine is that strolling around Knightsbridge and browsing its fabulous boutiques is part of my job! It was on such a ‘work’ outing that I discovered the gorgeous boutique ADAMO - which is located just opposite the new Apple store on Brompton Road. This fabulous boutique is wall-to-wall of luxury items created in a variety of natural fabrics with beautiful craftsmanship.

ADAMO was established in 1989 in Istanbul, Turkey and is the brainchild of Celal Ayyildiz, a renowned businessman and entrepreneur based in Istanbul. The ADAMO brand specialises in outwear and uses all the best quality fabrics including, cashmere, merino wool, fur-trimmed and leather apparel, though they also offer a sophisticated range of Ready-to-wear and accessories for men and women to complement their products.

When choosing the best Cashmere and merino wools and leather, ADAMO work with local producers and small family businesses across Europe. With these close relationships, they have been able to grow their business and maintain the craftsmanship of the highest quality. ADAMO London opened its first store in the UK in the Autumn of 2021 and is an inspired contemporary lifestyle brand with a strong sense of luxury that draws inspiration from the contrast between structure and spontaneity.

So, back to my shopping - the staff were amazingly nice and welcoming. They were attentive but not overbearing and helped me find products that were exactly what I was looking for - particularly a gorgeous jacket ready for the winter months ahead.

The brand embraces effortless dressing with design-led sophistication. ADAMO is about delivering an experience of indulgence and desirability using luxury materials and timeless design, and conceptual construction with a focus on quality. Each piece is carefully designed around wardrobe essentials with the ability to carry over from day to evening, creating a complete look through collections of shoes, bags, and accessories.

ADAMO’s Customer Service is beyond exceptional and they offer several luxury services from, private appointments in store, to visiting customers at their homes or hotel.

They offer a wide range of men’s and ladies’ apparel, and a bespoke, custom manufacturing service in their outerwear range. They also have an atelier service on-site in the Knightsbridge store that can complete alterations and are supported by an international team of apparel experts and associates in the store to help with the customer’s every need.

ADAMO London delivers a timeless collection with a true sense of luxury, introducing new silhouettes and exclusive designs for men and women for every season. ADAMO identifies with craftsmanship and creativity; which are essential to their work and true to their ideals. They design easy-to-wear, effortlessly elegant pieces that will make anyone feel confident sophisticated and gracious.

This is a store I have been telling all my friends about and I’m already planning my next visit!

Adamo London 20-22 Brompton Road Knightsbridge www.adamoonline.com

FESTIVE

fancy

After two years of low-key winter holidays we are celebrating our launch issue with some spectacular and sparkling festive jewels... so splurge and get ready to celebrate!

Words: Josie Goodbody

TIFFANY & CO

Schlumberger Bird On a Rock Brooch

The American jewellery powerhouse took London by storm this summer, with an astonishing retrospective at Sloane Square’s Saatchi Gallery, of its 185 year old history. Here, Jean Schlumberger’s iconic 1956 Bird on a Rock, rendered in gold and platinum, is re-imagined sitting on an oval tsavorite. White Diamonds & Yellow Diamonds over 47 carats, £POA. www.tiffany.co.uk

BOUCHERON

Yellow Gold, Malachite and Diamond Serpent Bohème Ring

Boucheron – for the ring. This might be one of the longest running French jewellery maisons, but you’d never think of it as ‘old’. Their trailblazing styles have created a furore. Set with malachite and diamonds in yellow gold, the Serpent Bohème Ring displays a modern design, with traditional gemstones, £7,450. www.boucheron.com

DE BEERS JEWELLERS

Aura Rings

Few do diamonds like De Beers and these two exceptional rings are what diamond dreams are made of. To the left an incomparable cushioncut 2.15ct green diamond; and to the right a 3.08ct oval-cut pink, both surrounded by white diamonds. It just goes to show – diamonds really are forever, and in every colour! £POA www.debeers.co.uk

KIKI MCDONOUGH

Kiki Unique 18ct Yellow Gold Green Tourmaline Oval Drop with Fire Opal with Diamond Surround

With forty years of formidable jewellery collections and Catherine, Princess of Wales a firm fan – it is not surprising that these exquisite earrings, set with green tourmalines and fabulous fire opals, encapsulate the festive season, £10,500. www.kiki.co.uk

DAVID MORRIS

Ruby and Diamond Feather Chandelier Earrings (rubies 29.15cts, diamonds 8.29cts), set in white gold

David Morris – the London jeweller never ceases to excel. His jewels at PAD in London were superlative. This majestic pair of ruby and diamond feather chandelier earrings, set with marquise cut rubies, peardrop rubies, trillion diamonds and pave set diamonds – encapsulate the glamour, gregariousness and glisten of the festive season, £POA. www.davidmorris.com

De Beers Aura fancy colour oval-shaped diamond ring

De Beers Aura fancy yellow-green cushion-cut diamond ring

ANNOUSHKA

Flight Josephine Malachite Earrings

The new Art Deco inspired collection, Flight, sees the eponymous jeweller steer away from her usual organic forms and go linear. Arrow motifs, which promote protection and peace, are incorporated into clean forms, whilst featherheads encourage freedom. This pair of earrings are gold set with diamonds and enamel, £9,900 www.annoushka.com

VAN CLEEF & ARPELS Perlée Ring

The fabulous French maison recently held a spectacular exhibition at Kensington’s Design Museum. While bracelets from the Alhambra Collection, a long-time favourite of the Queen Consort, were often worn during the signing of innumerable important documents. This ruby and rose gold ring is part of a new collection – Perlée, recently launched at Harrods, £11,600. www.vancleefarpels.com

FABERGE

Nothing is more Imperial or indeed iconic than a Fabergé egg. Egg pendant necklaces were given to a girl just before Easter from her first birthday onwards, secured to a little bracelet chain –this tradition evolved into the charm bracelet. Fabergé still creates exquisite eggs, both Imperial and Pendant sized! Above is a diamond and emerald egg pendant, which looks perfect no matter the season, £44,160. www.faberge.com

FESTIVE

Words: Josie Goodbody

HARRY WINSTON

Majestic Escapes Rainforest Ring

Winter in NYC is like nowhere else, and Manhattan’s King of diamonds is a dab hand at holiday jewels. This ring, part of the Rainforest Suite, is set with a sumptuous central tsavorite (5.49cts), surrounded by further tsavorites and diamonds set on the showstopping ring’s shoulders, £POA. www.harrywinston.com

LE VIAN

The Geneva, Oval Ruby Ring

Once a guardian of royal jewels in 18th century Persia, the fine jewellery house of Le Vian unites two luxury worlds – glamorous high style jewels and hand-made high jewellery pieces incorporating rare, precious diamonds and gemstones. This beautiful, 2.79ct oval ruby ring is surrounded by diamonds and set in white gold, £POA. www.levian.com

White Gold, Diamond and Emerald Fabergé Imperial Zenya Pendant

pearls

Queen Elizabeth II wore pearls almost every day, if not a necklace then earrings – often both. In the tradition of his great grandmother Queen Victoria, her father George VI gifted his two daughters two pearls every birthday since birth – and when they reached 18 years old, these pearls were strung into a necklace. The three strand necklace from her father was perhaps her most sentimental piece of jewellery and worn, intermittent with two replicas, up until her recent death. The original necklace was inherited by her daughter, the Princess Royal.

After years of unsuccessful attempts to recreate real pearls, Kokichi Mikimoto, finally succeeded in 1893. Six years later he opened the first Mikimoto boutique and then in 1913 a boutique in London. Mikimoto made lustrous pearls affordable, at a time when Queen Alexandra and her daughter-inlaw Queen Mary were seen with strands of pearl necklaces wound around their necks.

4This particular strand of creamy white Akoya perfect pearls is a breathtakingly long 100 inches with an 18ct white gold clasp. It can be worn in a multitude of ways – but I’d channel Queen Elizabeth’s great grandmother and swirl them several times around my neck, £POA. www.mikimoto.com

Words: Josie Goodbody

In Memory of Her Late Majesty The Queen

MIKIMOTO (Main photo and right)

Pictured: Mikimoto Brand Ambassador, Dilraba

BONHAMS

This stunning, three strand cultured pearl bracelet, with a mid-20th century floral clasp, set with brilliant and baguette diamonds, is up for auction on December 7th at Bonhams Knightsbridge. Estimate of £2,000-3,000. www.bonhams.com

YOKO LONDON

With a fab new flagship store on Sloane Street, this fifty year old, born and bred London brand puts pearls first. To celebrate Her Late Majesty’s Platinum Jubilee, Yoko created the Jubilee Masterpiece – a tiara that cleverly transforms into an equally sumptuous necklace. Set in white gold with 181 Japanese Akoya and Australian South Sea pearls with 31 carats of diamonds, this piece is pearlticularly spectacular, £POA. www.yokolondon.com

BOODLES

Another iconic British brand, Boodles began in Liverpool in 1798 and have recently celebrated 225 years with an exhibition at the city’s Lady Lever Art Gallery. Here South Sea cultured pearls set in platinum are suspended from double diamond (1.34ct) set kite shaped drops, £11,000. www.boodles.com

GARRARD

No jewellery maison is more regal than Garrard. From 1843 to 2007, this 300 year old British institution was the Crown Jeweller and many of the pieces that we see today on members of the Royal Family were created, or indeed altered, by the brand; including the crowns. They probably know more about the late monarch’s pearls than anyone else.

The Rose Garden High Jewellery Pearl and Diamond Necklace is set with 817 round diamonds and 190 cultured freshwater pearls, is as majestic as anything in the Royal Collection! Set in white gold, £230,000. www.garrard.com

TASAKI

Shunsaku Tasaki began farming pearls on Kyushu Island, Japan in 1933 and twenty years later he established his eponymous production, as one of the principal suppliers of cultured pearls. Today TASAKI is one of the largest producers of Akoya pearls. The business created its first jewellery designs in 1967 and is now known for its contemporary vision of unique pearl and diamond creations. This lovely pair of Chorus Valley earrings in platinum plated white gold is set with Akoya pearls and diamonds, £69,600. www.tasaki.co.uk

OFFICINE UNIVERSELLE BULY EAU TRIPLE MEDINA OUD £138 (75ml)

This unique water-based perfume has accords of agarwood, rose, saffron and amber. The heavenly accord enfolds the skin like velvet. www.buly1803.com

ARGENTUM BECOME £228 (70ml)

Refreshing citrus accompanied by the delicate essence of rosewood and geranium leaves and vibrant heart of spices. www.argentumapothecary.com

DOLCE & GABBANA K

EAU DE PARFUM £77 (100ml)

Taking inspiration from the Mediterranean, the citrus freshness of blood orange and Sicilian lemon scent embrace the senses. www.dolcegabbana.com

AMAN SEI FINE FRAGRANCE £220 (50ml)

Inspired by Amangiri’s iconic home on North America’s Colorado Plateau, this sophisticated scent has intense aromas of pine needles, sage and lavender, slowly revealing smouldering cedar. shop.aman.com

FLOWER BY KENZO L’ABSOLUE EDP £75 (50ml)

Capturing the poppy’s strength and fragility in a new intensity, the master perfumer depicts a spicy and sophisticated facet of the poppy. www.kenzoparfums.com

SCENTSATIONAL

Our selection of this season’s must-have fragrances

LILANUR PARFUMS £225 (100ml)

LilaNur Parfums is India’s first luxury fragrance house that celebrates their abundant flora and olfactory riches, expressed through the French master perfumery. www.harrods.com

NARCISO RODRIGUEZ

BLEU NOIR PARFUM £93 (100ml)

Mysterious and audacious, this fragrance embodies a warm, oriental and utterly addicting fragrance. www.johnlewis.com

TOM DAXON RESIN SACRA £175 (100ml)

The perfect scent for cold, rainy weather. Constructed around captivating frankincense, this fragrance smells both sensual and ecclesiastical. www.tomdaxon.com

BEAUTY IS SKINPERFECTION

t LYMA LASER

A world first. Nothing with this level of transformative power has been available to use at home. Clinic-grade performance in the palm of your hand. Portable, powerful, painless: the LYMA Laser uses cold laser therapy to target more skin conditions, from acne, wrinkles, sagging, rosacea, and pigmentation, than any other at-home device. It reaches the deepest layers of skin fat and muscle tissue and increases cellular growth and repair, £1,999. lyma.life

GERMAINE DE CAPUCCINI

Timexpert SRNS Repair Night Progress Serum

Treating all aspects of skin aging this technologically-advanced booster serum has 22 active ingredients, with visible results in just 7 days, £127.50.

www.germaine-de-capuccini.co.uk

AVANT SKINCARE

Dynamic Hydra-Balancing & Firming Pullulan Night Moisturiser

This night moisturiser boosts radiance and refreshes the complexion whilst you sleep and helps counteract the signs of skin ageing, such as wrinkles and dark under-eye circles, £74.

www.avant-skincare.com

Christina Raptis discovers the most fabulous products to keep you looking as young as you feel!

Editor’s Pick

THE ORGANIC PHARMACY

HCC7 Advanced Firming Ampoules

Kickstart your skin’s luminosity with these ampoules filled with ingredients such as Biomarine Collagen to nourish and improve your skin’s strength, £70. www.theorganicpharmacy.com

FRESH

Floral Recovery Calming Mask

This soothing mask is infused with passionflower and cornflower water and is clinically proven to calm signs of sensitivity and uneven tone, £59. www.fresh.com

KATHERINE DANIELS

Rehydrating Concentrate

This weightless formula boosts hydration, oxygenates and firms the skin and repairs the skin barrier for hydrated, supple, and radiant skin, £55. www.katherinedanielscosmetics.com

RoC

Multi Correxion Hydrate + Plump Moisturiser SPF30

This clinically-proven formula uses the power of Hyaluronic Acid to plump away visible lines and wrinkles while providing UVA/B protection, £35.99. www.feelunique.com

VERDILAB

Ultimate Lightening Vitamin C Eye Elixir

A luxurious, illuminating and anti-aging treatment created to support the ultra-demanding eye area resulting in an immediately luminous and rejuvenated look, £80. www.verdilabcosmetics.com

AESTHETICALLY PERFECT SKIN Capsule Collection

Give your skin an extra boost with these capsules filled with highly potent serum, powered by ceramides and other incredible skincare ingredients like Hyaluronic Acid and Vitamin C, £59. www.aestheticallyperfectskin.com

LA PRAIRIE

Skin Caviar Harmony L’Extrait

Through extensive research into skin aging, this revolutionary pre-serum works to re-densify and strengthen skin ligaments to firm and smooth the skin, redefining facial contours and improving the appearance of wrinkles, £650. www.harrods.com

ESPA

Optimal Skin Pro-Moisturiser SPF 30

Quench dehydrated skin with this moisturiser full of delicious nutrients which protects your skin all year-round, £50. www.feelunique.com

Christina Raptis imagines a very discerning WORLD OF INTERIORS

BOCA DO LOBO

Between raw modernism and organic softness, this luxury bathroom design advocates contemporary lines pushed to the extreme for a new expression of serenity.

BRABBU DESIGN FORCES

BRYCE Console

The BRYCE Console pays tribute to the Paunsaugnt Plateau through its unique design in high gloss black lacquer and glossy gold leaf. www.brabbu.com

DelightFUll

Donna Table Lamp

Inspired by the Donna Lee melody, this majestic table lamp, handmade in brass and Estremoz marble, with a gold-plated finish will beautifully suit any classic entryway or dining room. www.delightfull.eu

This beautiful cabinet radiates with an oxidised glow. Welding, oxidising, handbrushing: the process of bringing these sculptures to life is a labour of love. The results are works of art and help instil a sense of burnished luxury in spaces around the globe. www.tollgard.com

MAISON VALENTINA

Blaze Mirror

Accentuate any wall with this stunning mirror made entirely from polished brass and designed with concentric circles. Accented by engraved nail head trims and a LED strip to provide a soft and cosy light for any ambiance. www.maisonvalentina.net

JOHNATHAN ADLER

Op Art Bar

A limited-quantity edition, this modernist and mind-bending cabinet features glass panes back painted in charcoal and ivory with polished brass details. Grooved, split-circle door pulls add a glam spin. uk.jonathanadler.com

Both bold and daring, the modern edge in this chair exudes the feeling of vintage glam, while metal bands delicately bind the chair highlighting the sculpted fluidity of the tight back upholstery. www.bykoket.com

KOKET

Chandra Chair

DE CASTELLI

Celato Cabinet

STAR TURN

We showcase the fabulous artwork of our cover star Peregrine Heathcote

OUR COVER STAR, THE ARTIST BETTER KNOWN AS PEREGRINE HEATHCOTE

Peregrine Heathcote was born in London in 1973. His natural talent came to the fore at an early age while he was attending classes at the Heatherly School of Art in Chelsea when only 12 years old. He then went on to study at Stoneyhurst and the Harrow School. Peregrine began classical training in Italy, graduating from the Florence Fine Art Academy in 1994, and his professional career began in 1995. Crossing time boundaries his artwork fuses nostalgia with modern conceptions of glamour. Since commencing a professional career as a portrait artist in 1995, Peregrine has finished over 100 commissions including Prince Jeffrey of Brunei, the Duke and Duchess of St Albans, The Earl of Bradford, The Countess of Effingham and Lord Selsdon. His inimitable style has also led to numerous commissions from many notable captains of industry and celebrities.

What is your biggest inspiration for your artwork?

Escapism, travel, and elegance, de-cluttering everyday worries and the humdrum.

Who are your biggest artistic influences?

I go through phases of influences, I’m really inspired by film; I love Alfred Hitchcock. Also, artists like Windslow Homer; his narrative power is extraordinary, having just visited his Forces of Nature show at the National Gallery London I was left transfixed by pieces like ‘The Gulf Stream’ and ‘The Life Line’.

All your paintings reflect on a bygone era – explain?

Rather like looking through old photos, one gets a sense of some of the good times one has experienced, leaving us with a warm positive glow. The paintings capture scenes that help us to step away from everyday routines and chores.

Do you use photo references?

I do, yes. In some instances, it’s not possible to paint from life a few of the trains or cars I incorporate into my artwork. The characters are based on real people who come to the studio and model for the paintings and all the props are from the studio store.

How do you stay creative after 20+ years of creating art?

I completely love and believe in what I do and could not imagine anything else I’d rather spend my days doing! Yesterday a client came over to view a recently completed large-scale piece he commissioned; it made me so happy to see how much he loved it.

How much time does it take for you to complete a painting?

It totally depends on the size and the content. I have completed some very small paintings in a few days and others have taken months. I can sometimes take a year from the inception of a large commission, through sketches, emails, discussions, composition ideas and developments to finally framing a piece.

What is your favourite part of painting?

Going on from the previous question, I love discussing ideas with clients, and what they would like to represent and capture in their artwork. Sometimes it can be something personal and unique to them, like a symbolic reference hidden within the scene. I love the final stages of a painting, fine-tuning the highlights, adding glazes to increase luminosity, and all the hard work hopefully comes together in the right way!

How do you feel about NFTs?

I have very limited knowledge of NFTs – are they mainly investment punts, a possible gravy train, the primary function being to make as much profit as possible? Everyone who I’ve spoken to who owns them is predominantly interested in financial rather than aesthetic value.

Mind you, having said that, The Bored Ape Yacht Club series, I guess they are the new Andy Warhols’.

Is it hard to part with your paintings? There are certainly a few paintings I would love to have back again to live with and look at. I sometimes wonder if any of these pieces came up again on the open market or at auction what price I would be prepared to bid up to.

Which is your favourite painting you have ever created – ours is Gullwing!

Thank you, yes, I am very proud of Gullwing and enjoy the way it turned out. It is certainly gratifying to know it’s owned and enjoyed by a great collector called Jim, a charismatic entrepreneur who has a great sense of adventure, he could easily have been a character in the painting!

What are you working on at the moment?

I have a few pieces on the go in the studio at the moment. One, in particular, is definitely worth a mention. Commissioned by Mr R. a client with a virtuoso imagination and a film director’s eye for a visual narrative, the painting is set in a near-future dystopian Britain, inspired by a sci-fi book called Futuretrack 5 by Robert Westall. A neon-lit city street scene with a hover train, a flying cycopter, and a heroine leaning on her futuristic motorbike, imagine Tron: Legacy with Olivia Wilde directed by Josephe Kosinski. Another painting just completed, portrays a moment inspired by the iconic Dr No’s beach scene, remember the one when Honey Rider (Ursula Andress) comes out of the water under the astonished eye of James Bond (Sean Connery) and becomes the most emblematic James Bond Girl. In my painted version choreographed and dreamed up by the same Mr R this painted scene has a slight twist. The tuxedo-clad James Bond character has just stepped out of a seaplane, at the water’s edge, the pearly white sand meets the clear turquoise water, lightly lapping at his feet as he casually holds the bikini-clad Ursula Andress figure in a light embrace, they look into each other’s eyes. There is a slight tension as she has her hand close to her holstered fishing knife which hangs by her side, strapped to her bikini belt, although she is ready to kiss him, she is of course unsure of Mr Bond’s intentions. We have used the same iconic bikini that the costume designer Tessa Predergast collaborated closely with Andress for the actual film. The backdrop for the scene is the Waimanalo Bay Beach in Hawaii.

What exhibitions do you have coming up?

I am exhibiting in a group show in Scottsdale Arizona at the moment and will have a solo show there in March 2023 and will also have a show in Palm Beach over Christmas.

peregrineheathcote@hotmail.com @peregrineheathcote www.peregrineheathcote.com

My Tunes

Gullwing

Heathcote’s paintings are not only about travel, but they rather suggest a sense of escapism.

“These paintings journey me away to a world I would like to spend more time in.”

In these works, Peregrine Heathcote recalls his distinctive imagery, drawn from luxury lifestyle, fashion, and coastal places. The narrative and the formal language of the scenes are inseparably linked to classic cinema. Travels are central to Heathcote’s art. In these works, the focus is on the journey, which is explicitly represented through vintage cars and planes. In RUN FREE, a road sets the scene, leading our sight to the most classic vanishing point of perspective, inspired by the 1959 film North By North-west by Alfred Hitchcock. But during our journey, we share our experience with other

PEREGRINE HEATHCOTE

characters that are making their own journeys: a beautiful girl who is by her automobile, or is listening to music, or relaxing under the sun by the sea. In a way, Peregrine Heathcote’s paintings are not only about travel, but they rather suggest a sense of escapism, as they lead us to another dimension of timeless glamour and luxury. Although this dimension is very dreamy, it is made vivid and real by the extreme accuracy of the details of each figurative element: clothing, accessories, means of transport, and even the landscapes.

Photo by William Cooper

Shangri-La

READER’S CHOICE

IT’S ALL ABOUT SHOES

Suzanne Middlemass

Whether vintage or avantgarde, elegant or rocking, minimalist or extravagant this title showcases a colourful mix of shoes for all tastes. Street style photographer Suzanne Middlemass has captured both fashionistas and everyday individuals who dare to wear beautiful or strange, but always interesting shoes, £35.

www.teneues.com

KARL LAGERFELD UNSEEN THE CHANEL YEARS Robert Fairer

In beautiful, never-before-seen images, this glamorous tribute to Lagerfeld’s influential creations for Chanel is captured by US Vogue photographer Robert Fairer. Texts by Lagerfeld’s collaborators and friends provide a fresh perspective on his creative process and reveal the stories behind the now iconic designs, £60. www.thamesandhudson.com

CHILDREN OF THE WORLD

Mario Marino

Award-winning photographer Mario Marino showcases his most beautiful, touching, humorous, and exciting pictures of children for the first time. The portraits cover several continents, from children of western civilizations in Europe to street children in East Asia, £49.95. www.teneues.com

FASHION ICON NINO CERRUTI Cindi Cook

A beautifully illustrated book about the fabulous career of Nino Cerruti, renowned designer for French and American film and television stars, the Formula I Ferrari team, and an early mentor of Giorgio Armani. It is the only Cerutti monograph available and has exclusive access to the family archive, £39.95. www.teneues.com

This title is an epic visual history of Dior by one of France’s most iconic fashion photographers, Sarah Moon. This three-volume publication explores three distinct phases in the history of the legendary French fashion house through exclusive photographs, £130. www.delpireandco.com

VENEZIA

Venice like you’ve never seen it before. Native Venetian, photographer Federico Povoleri knows his home city like no other. Through his poetic black-and-white photographs, he captures an atmosphere of the floating city that is usually lost in the hustle and bustle of the tourist crowds, £45.

www.teneues.com

DIOR Sarah Moon

THROUGH A VENITIAN’S EYE Federico Povoleri

We visit the fabulous Waldorf Astoria Ithaafushi - the island is so idyllic that we realise...

Heaven Can Wait

Although the moniker ‘The world’s favourite airline’ has been taken by another carrier, I am convinced that if you conducted an opinion poll, most savvy travellers would choose Qatar Airways. And, so it was with great joy that we learned that our visit to the Maldives would be on the national airline of Qatar. If you’re flying long-haul then their A380 is a joy to behold – even in (God forbid!) – Economy Class! However, we were very fortunate to be invited on Business Class and be pampered in a way - well...that's very easy to get accustomed to. Trust me it’s a very long way to go and whoever came up with the expression, ‘Half the fun is getting there’ must have flown on Qatar Airways!

The Maldives is an idyllic string of coral islands in the Indian Ocean and it is the mecca for peace and tranquillity. Being the lowest country in the world, the Maldives is short of vast topographical landscapes to enjoy hiking and other various heart-rate raising activities. However, this is a place of ultimate luxurious relaxation, somewhere to forget about the stresses of modern city life, and to escape from reality.

In the heart of the South Malé Atoll lies the beautiful Ithaafushi Island, only a 45-minute yacht journey from Velana International Airport. Of the chain of 1,200 islands that make up the Maldives, many of the 200 that are inhabited are owned and operated by some of the leading names in world hotels. Ithaafushi Island and its lagoon is home to The Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi, in our opinion, perhaps the best resort in the nation!

As with all the resorts in the Maldives you are guaranteed coral blue waters, magnificent white sand beaches and glorious sunshine. And an added benefit that the island of Ithaafushi boasts is an abundance of natural flora and fauna.

This is the part where I would normally write… “and after a long flight we finally arrived in the Maldives.” However - Business Class travel is a different level and our journey went by faster than we had hoped. After a short yacht ride we approached the island where numerous staff members were standing on the pier eagerly awaiting our arrival with big smiles and waves - that’s a real Maldivian welcome.

The Waldorf Astoria resort has 119 villas, Beach, Reef and Overwater which span across three private islands. Villa options include, a one, two or three-bedroom villa, each with its own private pool, swing daybeds, dining gazebos and in-water lounges – all with uninterrupted breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean.

I stayed in the gorgeous overwater villa which has an open plan layout, high ceilings, and has views of the ocean from every room. There is a lounge on an expansive outdoor deck and you can explore the ocean views below through a clear glass floor right in the centre of the room!

Although you feel like a Queen in any of the villas, at the height of exclusivity is the Ithaafushi Private Island. Accessible only by yacht, the 32,000-square-meter sanctuary features a four-bedroom residence, three-bedroom beach villa and a two bedroom overwater villa, giving guests a transcendent sense of space. The private island comes complete with a dedicated chef and personal concierge team, an overwater spa and gym, five swimming pools, an entertainment centre and pristine beaches, providing endless options in which to indulge.

Aside from the luxury and service, one of the main draws of the Waldorf Astoria resort is its incredible epicurean options. From al fresco settings overlooking shimmering pools to unique bars with breathtaking sunset views, there’s a culinary experience for every palate.

Featuring an unparalleled array of choices for its guests with 11 celebrated specialty-dining venues, world-renowned chef Dave Pynt, mastermind behind Singapore’s Michelin-starred restaurant Burnt Ends, offers his expertise to the island’s barbecue grill restaurant, The Ledge. The restaurant features his signature, custom-built, four-ton, dual-cavity oven and elevation grills, enabling the use of techniques such as smoking, slow roasting, baking and grilling.

Other dining highlights include Terra, located on the island’s highest point and provides a unique gastronomic dining experience in private dining pods crafted from natural bamboo. Nestled among boulders, The Rock is a rustic wine cellar and dining experience set in a carved-out space, where guests can indulge in wine pairing meals or an elevated dining experience with a menu that pays homage to renowned wine regions around the world. Yasmeen offers guests the chance to savour authentic Middle Eastern cuisine. The immersive journey continues at Glow, which is set in a greenhouse-like structure shaded by lush greenery. It celebrates the concept of interactive garden-to-table dining by serving healthy and holistic cuisine made from fresh ingredients harvested from the on-island garden. Step into the Shanghainese era and enjoy contemporary Chinese cuisine at Li Long where Peking Duck is prepared in the Maldives’ first wood-fired oven. A private dining room also offers an intimate Shanghainese club-like ambience.

This resort’s playground, Nava, is surrounded by a Lagoon Pool and a Mirror pool stretching along a white sand beach featuring a resident DJ and evening live music. Nava offers fun experience for guests of all generations from recreational activities to watersports.

In spite of this incredible choice of world-class restaurants what took us to the Maldives the debut of the world-renowned contemporary and elegant Japanese concept Zuma. Founded in London in 2002 by creator and co-founder Rainer Becker, and now present across 20 locations worldwide, the globally acclaimed Zuma is inspired by the authentic Japanese dining style – Izakaya. It is an informal place for eating small plates and drinking under one roof. Zuma Maldives is inspired by the beauty of its stunning location, complementing its surroundings with the use of natural materials and local design techniques.

“We are thrilled to be bringing Zuma’s international cuisine to the Maldives on the shores of such a breathtaking and iconic destination,” commented Rainer Becker. “We share Waldorf Astoria’s focus on exceptional attention to detail and look forward to delivering unmatched culinary experiences to resort guests with Zuma’s awardwinning menu.” As you would expect, the launch party of the global Zuma brand attracted the world’s attention with guests flying in from almost every continent to enjoy and celebrate in true Zuma styleuntil the early hours! 4

After indulging in all of the resorts numerous culinary options - thankfully - the island features the Aqua Wellness Centre. This oasis features a custom-built hydrotherapy pool, ice fountain, steam room and sauna. The 2,906 square-foot outdoor pool is designed in zones, where each station of the pool uses water-based therapies targeting various areas of the body. The zones –which include jet bath, air jets, shower jets, and massage lounger – use varying levels of intensity and water temperature that aim to ease muscle tension, boost the immune system, increase blood circulation, speed up metabolism and improve deep sleep quality. This is amongst the best hydrotherapy pools in the world and in a setting like no other!

Despite the incredible location, the amazing culinary options, and the fabulous spa, what makes the Waldorf Astoria stand-out from other resorts is the people. Very fortunately, I have visited the Maldives on several occasions and the level of service, attention to detail and genuine kindness of both the staff and management was exemplary and made us feel so welcome - I long to return!

www.waldorfastoriamaldives.com

TRAVEL TALES

OKINAWA, JAPAN

We’re sure that when most people think of Japan this is not the view they imagine. However, Japan’s southern most prefecture comprising 160 subtropical islands boasts a year-round warm climate comparable to Hawaii and Miami. Okinawa is blessed with incredible natural beauty, from lush forests to crystal blue waters and white sands. The area is perfect for beach lovers and sports enthusiasts whilst still appealing to culture seekers with its unique heritage. Gastronomy is also unique and believed to be a key factor in its status as one of the five longevity hotspots worldwide. www.visitokinawajapan.com

“Travelling - it leaves you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller” Ibn Battuta

NGORONGORO CRATER, TANZANIA

Launching in early 2023, Ngorongoro Lodge, a Meliá Collection Hotel in Tanzania’s Ngorongoro Crater, a rare conservation area, where tourism must ensure the utmost respect for the natural environment and local communities. The hotel will offer 28 rooms and 24 spacious suites with views of the crater. With sustainability so important in today’s world, the hotel will generate a significant part of its own electricity, solar energy drinking water on-site through various mediums; solar panels, and a bottling plant. www.melia.com

DA NANG, VIETNAM

Sitting on a spectacular 30km stretch of beach which links Da Nang in the north with Hoi An in the south, the Mandarin Oriental Da Nang is ideally located to nearby attractions of the surrounding area, notably Hoi An, My Son and the royal city of Huế, all of which are UNESCO World Heritage sites. The hotel’s contemporary design will incorporate many natural Vietnamese elements and local cultural references and offer 69 villas and 18 residences, each set in their own landscaped gardens with private pools. www.mandarinoriental.com

MOSKITO ISLAND, BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS

Moskito Island, the Caribbean’s newest private island, is very near the top of our bucket list. They have recently launched a brand-new nine-bedroom grand estate, The Village which delivers a one-of-a-kind, luxury-living experience. It joins three ultra-lavish estates that already call Moskito home – The Branson Estate (owned by Sir Richard Branson), The Oasis Estate and The Point Estate. Crafted into the cliffside, The Village estate seamlessly blends cutting-edge architecture with high-tech amenities and delightful surprises waiting to be discovered to create an extravagant escape that you will always cherish. www.moskitoisland.virgin.com

TOKYO, JAPAN

The uber-luxury Bulgari Hotels have announced plans to open Bulgari Hotel Tokyo in April 2023. The hotel will occupy the top seven floors of an modern skyscraper in the Yaesu 2-Chome North District which is known for its exclusivity and is within walking distance of some of the city’s best attractions. The hotel will offer 98 guest rooms in a variety of configurations, including multiple luxury suites and what promises to be an extraordinary Bulgari Suite. www.bulgarihotels.com

CAP CANA, DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

This adult only all-inclusive resort is nestled in the heart of Cap Cana, a private enclave in Punta Cana with miles of pristine sand beaches. Sanctuary Cap Cana offers visitors the chance to experience a wide variety of attractions, including the ‘Punta Espada’ golf course designed by Jack Nicklaus, a state-ofthe-art marina with more than 150 slips accommodating yachts up to 150-feet, as well as an equestrian centre featuring two world-class polo fields designed by Alejandro Batros. www.marriott.com

SYLT, GERMANY

The exclusive town of Sylt, which is often referred to as the ‘Hamptons of Germany’ is the site of Lanserhof’s new resort. Lanserhof is a leading name in innovative health and this is the group’s first resort by the sea. Sylt has long been treasured for its famous healing climate and restorative sea air. The €120 million project spanning over five years combines cutting-edge diagnostics with natural healing methods. Lanserhof Sylt offers 55 rooms and suites beneath Europe’s largest thatched roof. www.lanserhof.com

“We travel, initially, to lose ourselves; and we travel next, to find ourselves” Pico Iyer

SHIZUOKA, JAPAN

You may not have heard of Shizuoka the coastal town which is home to the iconic Mount Fuji and only an hour from Tokyo by bullet train. It boasts a spectacular natural environment of coastline, mountains and lakes including the beautiful Izu Peninsula, described as ‘Japan’s Riviera’. The region is steeped in history, has a huge choice of traditional Ryokan Inns and Onsen Hot Springs and is also a gourmet paradise. Its natural environment produces some of the country’s best food and drink, from green tea (Japan’s biggest producer) and wasabi, to fresh seafood. www.exploreshizuoka.jp

SINGAPORE, SINGAPORE

Located on the prestigious Orange Grove Road, The Standard, Singapore is destined to become a magnet to the cognoscenti. One of the few specially-built hotels in this exclusive area, it will feature 143 spacious rooms. The area is Singapore’s premier shopping destination and boasts a myriad of international and local brands across retail, dining and entertainment, and is a hotspot for tourists and locals alike. www.standardhotels.com

THE RED SEA, SAUDI ARABIA

For an experience far-removed from mundane and predictable holiday spots why not visit Saudi Arabia. Here, the Six Senses Southern Dunes, The Red Sea will take guests on a journey into seldom-experienced nature, wildlife and culture, setting new standards in sustainability and desert hospitality. Clusters of villas are set atop peaks to offer panoramic views; the undulating roofs and décor will reflect the soft tones and textures of the sandy dunes. The Six Senses Spa, will feature self-shaded water surfaces and deep cold pools with highlights including a holistic anti-ageing centre, a sensory suite, and treatment cabanas. www.sixsenses.com

DUBAI, UAE

Located opposite buzzy JBR beach on exclusive Bluewaters Island, a lifestyle destination brimming with shops and restaurants, Caesars Palace Dubai is the perfect escape. The island is home to Ain Dubai, the world’s largest observation wheel. The luxury beachfront resort is nestled on 1.7km of pristine sandy shoreline and has a fabulous 500m private beach with panoramic views of the Arabian Gulf. The resort offers culinary delights from celebrity chef-helmed restaurants, five outdoor temperature-controlled pools and two energetic beach clubs. www.caesars.com

CORFU, GREECE

Opening in May 2023, Ikos Odisia will offer 395 bedrooms and an iconic location, protected in a secluded bay across from globally-awarded Ikos Dassia. The new resort is elevated for dramatic views and landscaped vistas across the Ionian Sea. Guests can look forward to the all-inclusive Infinite Lifestyle concept, 10 heated outdoor and indoor pools, menus created by Michelin-star chefs, and signature spa experiences by Anne Semonin Paris. www.ikosresorts.com

SIAN KA’AN, MEXICO

Located south of Tulum in the Sian Ka’an biosphere, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, newly-opened Casa Chablé offers true barefoot luxury, ultimate seclusion, and immersion in nature on a private islet untouched stretch of Quintana Roo’s Caribbean coast. A scenic 35-minute ride by private boat through lush mangrove forests bring guests to the resort’s private dock where they will find a pristine islet featuring five standalone beachfront bungalows, and a main villa housing five guest suites, each with their own private terrace. www.chablehotels.com

ROME, ITALY

Housed in a 17th-century residence just a stone’s throw from the Colosseum, Palazzo Manfredi is located in the very heart of Imperial Rome. This extraordinary period residence, steeped in history, combines hospitality, elegance and impeccable service to give you an experience of Rome like no other. Just outside the door is Ludus Magnus, the gymnasium where gladiators trained before facing their fierce opponents in the arena. This scene is so vivid in our imagination even today – more than two thousand years later – that you can still almost hear them crossing swords and cheering one another on. www.manfredihotels.com

ZALLAQ, BAHRAIN

Resting majestically on the unexplored, pristine beaches of Bahrain’s West Coast, the Jumeirah Group’s latest property, Jumeirah Gulf of Bahrain Resort & Spa, is a secluded oasis away from the hustle of the city. The new resort offers guests a luxury getaway with incredible ocean views, lush greenery and is home to 196 spacious rooms and suites, as well as an exclusive 11-bedroom Gulf Summer House, located on the beach. Dine at one of eight signature dining concepts, or reinvigorate your mind, body and spirit at Jumeirah’s awardwinning Talise Spa www.jumeirah.com

Set above a magical private golden-sand beach on the East coast of Zakynthos, are the nine private villas of Porto Zante. With a fabulous waterfront spa, in-room treatments, two restaurants, kids’ club, sea views and a private beach, this is the perfect retreat in which to relax in style. Ranging from one-to-four-bedrooms, each villa is equipped with a heated swimming pool with a beautiful garden, and is stylishly-designed with eye-catching works of art, an outdoor-dining area, kitchenette and a separate living room. www.portozante.com

ZAKYNTHOS, GREECE

“The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page” Saint Augustine

LANGKAWI, MALAYSIA

www.thedatai.com

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA

The Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix will return next year to Melbourne’s Albert Park Grand Prix Circuit, from 30 March to 2 April 2023. The event sees the world’s fastest cars, coolest celebrities and latest technology converge on Melbourne for four days of unstoppable action. The motorsport extravaganza will see teams including Mercedes, Red Bull, Ferrari and McLaren take to the tracks, in the race for podium position in the ever-thrilling racing competition. Although the 2023 line-up is still shaping up, it is expected that a Melbourne-born driver will be on the grid for the first time ever. www.visitmelbourne.com

TANGIER, MOROCCO

Originally built in the 1920s as a residence for the King’s advisor, the Fairmont Tazi Palace has been restored and expanded upon. Nestled on the Moroccan Riviera, it offers incomparable views and unparalleled luxury throughout its 133 rooms, suites, and penthouses. Guests can experience lavish accommodation, a wide range of culinary venues, and rejuvenating wellness offerings, all within an idyllic setting that celebrates Morocco’s rich history and culture. www.fairmont.com

The iconic Malaysian resort, The Datai Langkawi, which is set within a pristine 10 million-year-old rainforest, overlooks the tranquil Datai Bay - National Geographic’s Top 10 Beaches worldwide. To reinforce their passion for their environment they have published a second impact report for the Datai Pledge which supports sustainability, conservation and community support programs.

SUMBA, INDONESIA

Opening in January 2023 and located in captivating, off-the-radar Sumba, Cap Karoso is an eco-conscious haven that offers 47 rooms and 20 villas, and will also be available for private buyers.

Guests will be greeted with stylish interiors designed by Jakarta-based Bitte Design Studio, inspiring social spaces including Julang restaurant and Explorer’s Beach Club, an open-air cinema, spa, gym, and yoga platform all fostering a sense of community and connection in an ecofriendly environment. www.capkaroso.com

BALI, INDONESIA

Nestled on Bali’s pristine white sand beach of Nusa Dua, The Laguna, a Luxury Collection Resort and Spa, encapsulates the best of Bali. Boasting seven lagoon pools, 287 guestrooms, suites and luxury villas, its own temple and award-winning restaurants and bars. The resort’s design imitates its beautiful tropical surroundings and echoes the local traditions of Balinese culture. Step outside of the resort and explore the nearby Nusa Dua beach, the renowned Uluwatu Temple, and the Garuda Wisnu Kencana cultural park.

www.marriott.com

JEJU, KOREA

Award-winning architect and interior designer Bill Bensley was responsible for the tranquil decor of the 198 guest rooms which all have spectacular ocean views at the soon to open JW Marriott Jeju Resort & Spa. Situated on a cliff off the southern coast of exotic Jeju island the hotel offers harmony, culture and nature. Luxury amenities at the resort include: indoor and outdoor pools, hot springs with a Korean-style sauna ‘Jjimjlbang’, a unique selection of F&B concepts, a kids club, and further recreational facilities.

www.marriott.com

“Two roads diverged in a wood, and I - I took the one less travelled by, And that has made all the difference” Robert Frost

Le Meurice

To paraphrase a quite well-known quote, “If England is my wife, then Paris is most definitely my mistress”. She is forever in my thoughts and I long for her. I love her elegance and her charm, her sophistication and her allure, her je ne sais quoi. I wish she was mine. Every chance I get to escape and visit I sneak away, even if it’s fleeting. The most romantic and beautiful city in the world is always there to welcome me with open arms and satisfy all my desires. Je t’aime, mon amour!

Endless cafes and brasseries to enjoy a baguette and glass of wine, the world’s finest museums, architectural masterpieces on every street, the finest restaurants in the world to savour, fashion boutiques to lust after, monuments that leave you in awe, incomparable art galleries that inspire, mature parks to get lost in – Paris has it all! Not to mention the majesty of its sights including The Louvre, Notre Dame, Sacre-Coeur, and the Eiffel Tower – whatever the reason you love Paris – there is always something new to discover and make you fall in love all over again. And so I did!

Thomas Jefferson

Paris is there to be explored and no matter how many times you’ve visited previously you’ll discover a hidden gem of a café, bistro, park, or gallery that will stay with you forever and become your very own special place.

And on a recent visit, I discovered my favourite city-centre hotel in the world. It is the magnificent Le Meurice. Now that may sound a bit predictable a choice but, as Shakespeare once said, “Let me count the ways”.

There is no hotel with a better view. As I sip champagne from my balcony I am in awe of the majestic Tuileries Garden which is literally my front garden and the backdrop of the Eiffel Tower in the distance is nothing short of magical.

My suite is incredibly opulent. Designers Lally & Berger have created the feeling of your own beautiful private residence in the heart of Paris. Tall windows welcome in the city’s natural light, rich fabrics and original artworks accent the generous space. The bed is huge and oh so comfortable - I could stay forever!

The service at Le Meurice is tres magnifique, and their attention to detail is beyond impeccable. From the doorman to the GM everyone is welcoming and genuinely charming.

The piece de resistance, of course, is their culinary offering. Alain Ducasse protégé Amaury Bouhours serves amongst the best cuisine in the world and with Restaurant le Meurice Alain Ducasse there may be no better epicurean address in Paris. The magnificent dining room was inspired by the Salon de la Paix at the Château de Versailles and given a touch of Philippe Starck magic. And then, of course, there’s Cedric Grolet...

“a walk in paris will provide lessons in history, beauty and in the point of life”

Azzy Asghar extols the virtues of his favourite Parisienne hotel...

Azzy Asghar discovers the pizzazz of the PLAZA ATHÉNÉE

Every single time I tell someone that my favourite Parisienne hotel is Le Meurice - they always chime in with ‘What about the Plaza Athénée?’ So highly-regraded is this luxury hotel that some compare or believe it to be better than one of the world’s leading hotels which I regard as Le Meurice.

The Plaza Athénée is located on the prestigious Avenue Montaigne, the tree-lined boulevard famous for French couture - the perfect address for a very fashionable hotel. The hotel is instantly recognisable by the 1,900 red geraniums adorning the hotel façade - they were apparently inspired by a love story - the passionate declaration, like the hotel itself, is a welcome unlike any other.

The grand hotel has unrivalled views of two iconic Paris landmarks, the Eiffel Tower at one end, and the Champs-Elysées at the other. Respecting its location in the heart of the fashion world, the hotel prides itself on being unique. Like a bespoke suit it tailors itself to cater to the exacting needs of each guest on a very individual basis. This begins with the service you receive the moment your car pulls up to the red carpet at the entrance of the hotel.

The rooms, as you’d imagine, are beautifully appointed with plush linens creating luxury and warmth. The hotel’s mission is to create a wonderful place to stay, relax and feel absolutely at homeI only wish my home was this stunning!

Of course, the French do fine dining better than most and Jean Imbert au Plaza Athénée is a culinary experience like no other. The Michelin-starred chef takes you on an immersive journey back to the ancient heart of French gastronomy with recipes dating back 250 years given a modern twist. He presents a playful ode to heritage cuisine, one that crosses trends and centuries while remaining deeply modern - all served in a beautiful room on elegant bone china.

For a more relaxed dining option, although it is equally beautiful and stunning Imbert’s Le Relais Plaza is an Art Deco restaurant which puts his twist on a classic French Brasserie.

Following the indulgence of culinary options on offer you may want to relax and pamper yourself. I think most people would agree that there are a few things that the French do better than most other nations - fine cuisine, haute couture, and beauty. And for beauty (treatments) there is nowhere in Paris quite like the Dior Spa at the Plaza Athénée. Visit, explore, and indulge.

Oh, and yes, the Plaza Athénée definitely could lay claim to be the best hotel in Paris, perhaps I have two favourites!

Majestic Montenegro

Christina Raptis visits the port transforming a nation

Sitting on the promenade enjoying a cocktail whilst watching the sunset, it’s hard not to notice the incredible fleet of superyachts moored in the marina. With intriguing names that include: Black Pearl and Maltese Falcon… we curiously Google to find out who their respective – and obviously very wealthy – owners are. Sheiks, billionaires, and international men of mystery…are but a few who are visiting Porto Montenegro. And thus our new obsession with Googling superyachts begins and will occupy a lot of our time over the next few days.

Despite the vast number of these superyachts heading to Montenegro – and we really do mean super – the port can accommodate the largest of them all. As the world’s first Platinumstatus marina, Porto Montenegro has achieved the TYHA Platinum Marina Award and is the first marina to be awarded the 5 Gold Anchor Platinum accreditation. The port offers state-of-the-art facilities and the perfect cruising destination for the season, with flexible berthing packages and the added benefit of tax-free fuel!

The marina has a capacity of 460 berths and can accommodate yachts up to 250m, with further plans under development to expand its offering in phases to up to 850 berths, of which 315 will be specifically for superyachts. This, with the adjacent Adriatic 42 superyacht repair facility cements Porto Montenegro’s position as the largest full-service marina in the Mediterranean.

The incredible port only adds to the attractions of the area and indeed, the country as a whole. With 295km of beautiful coastline, 117 diverse beaches, and over 280 days of sunshine per year, Montenegro is renowned for its unspoiled beauty, boasting 5 national parks, and 4 World Heritage sites, including the Bay of Kotor, the largest freshwater lake in Europe and pristine mountains for skiing.

Porto Montenegro has transformed the coastal area making Montenegro one of the fastest-growing economies in the Balkans and the second-fastest-growing travel and tourism economy in the world.

Located on the UNESCO-protected Bay of Kotor in a picturesque marina village, boasting five-star hotels and premium residences, and a burgeoning fashion and dining scene, Porto Montenegro is becoming the go-to Mediterranean destination.

To accommodate the guests arriving on superyachts the Port has also evolved into a trendy destination for luxury shopping and foodies. A variety of restaurants including Forza Porto bring authentic Boka delicacies with a modern and sophisticated twist, whilst its sister restaurants Marea on the village Town Quay and Panorama at the PMYC Pool, combine traditional Mediterranean cuisine with a blend of Northern Montenegrin-inspired culinary

specialties. For more casual dining, head to Navale, the local familyrun waterfront café located on Porto’s prestigious promenade. For live music and entertainment, the recently-opened Buddha-Bar Beach brings a unique lifestyle and dining concept and features a 64-metre infinity pool, restaurant, and bar all within the marina's Yacht Club.

In the heart of the village is the beautiful 5-star Regent Porto Montenegro hotel which boasts truly-luxurious rooms, suites, and residences, 5 in-house restaurants, and panoramic views across the glistening bay.

The port is also the perfect base for setting sail to the best beach clubs in the country. These include the Ribarsko Selo, a beach restaurant destination where fishermen bring in fresh catches of the day, to the world-famous Nikki Beach, which is a recent stylish addition to the Bay of Tivat. For culture vultures, there is the medieval, fortified town of Kotor with its limestone cliffs and winding streets, or the Roman Catholic Church, Our Lady of the Rocks, set on an islet off the coast of Perast.

Upon completion of the regeneration plan, Porto Montenegro will feature 5 interconnected neighbourhoods, including the existing neighbourhood South Village, which offers classic and elegant waterfront living, dining, and shopping, over 400 private apartments, Regent Hotel & Venezia Residences Porto Montenegro with its new, 129 managed Regent Pool Club Residences across its AQUA and BAIA buildings, as well as 50 apartments in its newest Elena Residences building, all overlooking the marina.

The next phase of development includes Boka Place, a new urban quarter that will feature 96 hotel rooms, 144 SIRO residences, and 69 private residences. SIRO Boka Place will be a five-star health and wellness lifestyle concept with a rooftop bar and pool, and several restaurants and bars. Synchro will deliver a luxury hotel and spa set within a beach setting. North Village will transform the existing sports centre of the former naval dockyard and is planned as a tenniscentric village for sporting breaks. Meanwhile, Park Gardens will be a resort-style oasis with homes set amongst a dense jungle landscape and a winding network of swimmable waterways.

This was my first visit to Montenegro, and I really enjoyed the culture and meeting the friendly people of this small nation. I can't wait to return to see the above developments transform the area into an even more exciting hotspot, as I truly believe the destination offers something for everyone to discover – shopping, epicurean delights, and natural beauty – or even discovering who owns the best superyacht – thanks Google. www.portomontenegro.com

MA KING WAVES

TheRiva Anniversario is an incredible combination of details and inspiration drawn from both the legendary Aquariva and Aquarama. The new boat pays tribute to the brand’s history of these two iconic boats which this year celebrate their 60th and 20th anniversaries respectively.

Riva Anniversario is a unique 33-foot open powerboat with magnetic appeal, paying tribute to the history and legend of the yard that has been making exciting contributions to yachting, design and luxury living for 180 years. Like all true objects of desire, the Riva Anniversario is produced in limited number with only 18 units and they have already become collector’s items.

The sleekly elegant lines of the Anniversario are designed as always by Mauro Micheli and Sergio Beretta, founders of Officina Italiana Design, working in partnership with the Strategic Product Committee led by Mr. Piero Ferrari and the Ferretti Group Engineering Department. The exterior styling is inspired by the Aquariva’s classic silhouette, featuring clean lines, balanced volumes and a series of stylistic details that tap into the Aquarama’s refined style.

Riva Anniversario exerts its power of seduction even before you go aboard, with a stern platform concealed and sheltered by the streamlined design of the hull sides. The boat’s profile is also enhanced by the aquamarine waterline, which leads into the white anti-fouling and pays tribute to the Aquarama, as does the name of the model written in same lettering style as the famous wooden boats of the 1960s.

The entire aft section on board is occupied by the engine compartment hidden below the classic sunpad, which is upholstered with innovative outdoor leather in alternating aquamarine and white colours. The same leather is used to upholster both the cockpit and the below-deck area. This special type of leather is perfectly waterproof, withstands marine conditions and can be used at sea, ensuring an unrivalled sensation of softness and well-being.

Designed for functionality and comfort, the cockpit has a new design featuring a large U-shaped sofa and a central table seating up to eight people. But that’s not all: the table has an up-down mechanism so that the space can easily be transformed into one big sunbathing area which can be sheltered by the distinctive bimini top.

The foredeck is clad entirely in polished mahogany planking. Continuing the tradition of hand craftsmanship, all the wooden parts of Anniversario are protected by the Sarnico-based yard’s famous 24 coats of varnish. Two deck portholes inspired by the Aquarama, one on either side, bring natural light down below deck.

Below deck, the ambiance features leather upholstery with an aquamarine and white colour scheme that matches the ceiling. Riva Anniversario is fitted with an electronically controlled two-speed gearbox that unleashes all the power of the two Yanmar 8 LV engines, each rated 370hp. This engine configuration delivers a top speed of 40.5 knots and provides a range of 155 miles at the cruising speed of 36 knots.

The launch of Riva Anniversario also represents an opportunity for Ferretti Group to leave a mark by contributing to a noble cause. Of the 18 unique units of Riva Anniversario being made, one will be immediately donated to the charity initiative 7 Fund for UNICEF, created by UNICEF and David Beckham to support children around the world with better healthcare, education, and protection. Ferretti Group has decided to donate a limitededition Riva Anniversario to the cause, which will be auctioned off and the entire proceeds donated to help protect children in El Salvador. The silent auctionwww.ferrettigroupforunicef.com - is currently open and concludes in Miami in February 2023.

www.riva-yacht.com www.ferrettigroup.com

This limited edition Gods Glitch handmade crushed velvet Bomber Jacket is lined with cosy quilted jersey for a pleasant feeling. The heavyweight fabric is both sturdy and long-lasting. We love it! £750. www.GodsGlitch.com CNCPT Knightsbridge London

A MAN OF SUBSTANCE IS A MAN OF STYLE

If you know about aviation, the name Kittyhawk will not be unfamiliar. The Curtiss P-40 was one of the most important WW2 allied aircraft. Just like the “nose art” of those legendary WW2 aircraft, this MB&F Pièce Unique HM4 ‘Kittyhawk’, bears a hand-painted shark mouth and eyes, along with aged time and power reserve dials, £POA. www.mbandf.com

David Gandy Wellwear’s latest drop combines the familiar comfort of sweats with the utilitarian qualities of classic workwear – The Easy Set – made from smooth interlock jersey.

Easy Jacket, £160 Easy Tapered Pant, £140 www.davidgandywellwear.com

Carl Friedrik has partnered with F1 Racing Team Scuderia AlphaTauri to create this custom carry-case. In a nod to Scuderia AlphaTauri’s signature colours, it boasts a sleek navy shell and white branded detailing on the Italian leather handles, £345. www.carlfriedrik.com

This exclusive Gods Glitch Duffle Bag is handmade in the UK and is made of 100% Nappa leather. It represents success and strength and is perfect for a short trip or weekend getaway. Limited edition with only 30 pieces available, £950. www.GodsGlitch.com

This travel-size telescope from Swarovski Optik (ATC & STC 17-40X56) is ideal for the man who wants to go bird-spotting or any other wildlife! Weighing only 980g and compact in size - only 28.5cm - makes it the smallest model the luxury brand produces. Both ATC/STC models connect to the Swarovski Optik VPA phone adapter allowing you to quickly connect to your smartphone and take photos, £1,820. www.swarovskioptik.com

The flagship store of the premium sportswear brand Castore has opened in the heart of Knightsbridge. They utilise advanced engineering and unique technical fabrics to create the highest quality sportswear in the world for athletes who demand the very best. Designed with a passion for innovation with specialist features to help to optimise athletic performance in all conditions. Featured is their 2022 collection.

www.castore.com

Always focused on performance and heritage, Lapierre bikes and Alpine Cars share common values that translate into this exceptional carbon fibre bike with a unique design and a racing spirit. Limited to 110 pieces, £9,000. www.lapierrebikes.com

Urbet Electric Motors is a Spanish electric mobility brand founded in 2017 in Marbella. The Urbet Lora S electric motorbike has a 360 km range with 24 HP of maximum power and a naked design with neo-retro line, £11,500. www.urbet.es

A MAN OF STYLE IS A MAN OF ADVENTURE (and planet friendly!)

Horology Highs

The purchase of luxury timepieces has grown exponentially over the past three years, despite a global pandemic; indeed according to Watches of Switzerland, annual global sales until May 1st 2022 at both auctions and in boutiques rose 40% to $1.28bn. So here we showcase some of the best new watches of the year to add to your wish list. Words: Josie Goodbody

PANERAI LUMINOR BITEMPO

Time travel is possible with this new watch, available in both blue and black, from Swiss-Italian Panerai. By simultaneously displaying the local time and your home time, you are never lost for time. £8,800 www.panerai.com

ROLEX YACHT-MASTER 42

The latest iteration of the Oyster Perpetual Yacht-Master comes in a very grown-up looking 18ct yellow gold. As well as a chromolight display and a bi-directional rotating bezel, with a 60-minute graduated Cerachrom insert, since 2019 the YM42 has been fitted with Calibre 3235 - so, 70 power hours! Oh and it’s waterproof to a 100 metres. £23,850 www.rolex.com

A. LANGE & SÖHNE

1815 RATTRAPANTE PERPETUAL CALENDAR

A new addition to its 1815 family, the Rattrapante features one of the most sophisticated of complications: the eponymous chronograph, rattrapante. This refined wristwatch has a platinum case and is limited to only 200 pieces. £POA www.alange-soehne.com

HERMES ARCEAU LE TEMPS

VOYAGEUR 38MM

Hermes epitomes the spirit of travel and here interprets its DNA (travel, riding and dreaming) into the design of this unique watch, meticulously made for the international traveller. Available in blue, black, or white and created in platinum and titanium or entirely in steel, its round case reveals a new reading of the hours of the world. £17,500 www.hermes.com

BULGARI SERPENTI SPIGA

In December, Bulgari celebrates its emblematic Serpenti motif, with an immersive exhibition at the Saatchi Gallery. The viper inspired motif appeared in 1948 with a watch bracelet; this new model sees the serpent swirl about the wrist in a black ceramic bracelet to the curved case with 18ct rose gold bezel, crown and black lacquer polished dial. An ideal accessory for the exhibition! £7,550 www.bulgari.com

CARTIER ‘BASEBALL’ PEBBLE

Known for its mastery in ‘shaped watches’, Cartier’s newest model is based on a design from the London branch’s 1972 archives. Limited to 150 pieces, it has a 18ct yellow gold circular case with a tilted square dial; the strap is in beige calf leather, with a gold pin buckle. £40,000 www.cartier.com

AUDEMARS PIGUET

ROYAL OAK SELFWINDING

To celebrate 50 years of its iconic Royal Oak, two new Royal Oak Selfwinding sets in 37mm and 41mm, have been launched. Each watch is set with 800 sparkling, baguette-cut coloured gemstones, to recreate a rainbow when all the pieces are put side by side. Choose from ruby, emerald, sapphire, amethyst, pink tourmaline, blue topaz, orange spessartine, yellow chrysoberyl, tanzanite, and tsavorite or take the full rainbow! £POA www.audemarspiguet.com

PIAGET POLO GREEN DATE

The Piaget Polo Date has gone back to nature with a new model rendered in a gorgeous green hue. The 18k rose gold case stands out exceptionally against the dial’s green godrons pattern and the green alligator strap. £25,300 www.piaget.com

PATEK PHILIPPE

CALATRAVA

5524R

PILOT TRAVEL TIME

Patek’s pilot watches first appeared in the 1930s; this updated model from the 2018 launch of Calatrava Time Travel shows dual time zones by way of two 12-hour hands, one of which can be ‘hidden’ when on home turf, rendering the watch easier to read. £44,760 www.patek.com

THE ELECTRIFYING ALL-NEW HYBRID McLAREN ARTURA

Azzy Asghar test drives

Okay,

I’ll put my cards on the table from the very start. My Editor had allowed me two pages for the car review, but looking at the stunning photos of this McLaren ARTura – even she realised that to do it justice we had to showcase the beauty of this car across a photo-led spread. After all – a picture is worth a thousand words!

This is the awesome McLaren Artura. McLaren’s first seriesproduction High-Performance Hybrid supercar focuses more than half a century of the company’s racing and road-car experience and expertise into a next-generation supercar that blends groundbreaking technology with McLaren’s dedication to performance and driver engagement.

The Artura’s beauty is more than skin deep – although just looking at the curves on this car makes you drool – the low-nose, cabforward, the high-tail stance is pure supercar, the awe accentuated by their signature dihedral doors which are more spaceship than supercar!

The all-new Artura is the result of every attribute inherent in a McLaren – a car created with dedication to the driver, incredible design, unrivalled performance, dynamic excellence and engineering innovation and now electrification which brings even faster throttle response and lower emissions.

All-new from the ground up, the Artura presented McLaren engineers and designers with new opportunities to innovate. Primary challenges were how to preserve McLaren’s super-lightweight engineering philosophy when adding hybrid powertrain elements including an E-motor and battery pack.

The Artura sits on the new McLaren Carbon Lightweight Architecture (MCLA) which sets a new standard for McLaren’s advanced flexible chassis design. The new platform is a carbon fibre monocoque using McLaren pioneered composite technology from Formula 1 racing.

At the heart of the Artura’s powertrain is McLaren’s all-new, 2,993cc twin-turbocharged V6 petrol engine. With a power output of 585PS – nearly 200 PS per litre – and 585Nm of torque. Power ‘off-the-line’ is phenomenal and sees the Artura achieve 0-100km/h (0-62mph) in just 3.0 seconds, with 0-200km/h (0-124mph) taking 8.3 seconds and 0-300km/h (0-186mph) 21.5 seconds. Top speed is limited to 330km/h (205mph).

The Artura is designed with full Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) capability and can be charged to an 80% charge level in just 2.5 hours with a standard EVSE cable. The batteries can also harvest power from the combustion engine during driving, tailored to the mode selected.4

Out of the darkness, comes the light... the hybrid McLaren Artura

McLaren cars have always been renowned for two things: supercar performance and engaging the driver at the wheel. This is truly evident in the Artura. A supercar that’s actually incredibly relaxing and easy to drive as a daily car, yet has the power to be unleashed on any track.

Artura is no less of a revolution on the interior, with the cockpit centred more than ever around the driver. The driving mode selection which retains separate Powertrain and Handling controls has been moved to the instrument binnacle, which is, in turn, mounted to the steering column and adjusts with the steering wheel to further enhance driving ergonomics. Consequently, the steering wheel is kept clear of unnecessary switches, but the driver is still able to adjust driving modes without taking their hands away from the wheel.

There are four Powertrain modes, including an E-mode for 31km (19 miles) of emission-free, electric-only driving, Comfort mode is ideal for everyday driving, and for greater speed and power, there are the Sport and Track options.

The McLaren Artura also debuts an all-new Clubsport seat, which uniquely combines the range of motion expected of a moveable backrest with the lightweight and support of a bucket seat. Innovative yet uncomplicated, the whole seat pivots as one through an elliptical arc when adjusted, combining under-thigh support, seat height, and backrest in one movement.

An all-new McLaren infotainment and connectivity system utilises two highdefinition screens. A stealth mode on the main binnacle hides non-essential content, reducing distractions and allowing the driver to fully concentrate on the road ahead.

The Artura is priced from £189,200 for the standard specification model. There are three further interior specifications: Performance, which has a sporting, functional aesthetic; TechLux, where the focus is on the technical luxury that the name suggests; and Vision, which displays a more avant-garde and adventurous look and feel.

Every McLaren Artura comes as standard with a five-year vehicle warranty, a six-year battery warranty, and a 10-year body perforation corrosion warranty.

This peace of mind only reinforces what you already know. This is a car built by one of the pioneers of supercars and is as structurally sound as it is incredible to drive and beautiful to look at – even six pages isn’t truly enough! v

Tech Savvy

APPLE WATCH HERMÈS

Silver Stainless Steel Case with Gourmette Metal Double Tour

Wear the latest tech on your wrist with this stylish Apple Watch Hermès in beautiful stainless steel with supple noir leather, £1,739. www.apple.com

High-Roller LINLEY Vice Box

Ideal for those who enjoy playing poker whilst indulging in a casual drink and a fine cigar, the Vice Box has been carefully crafted in walnut and can be personalised, £13,995. www.davidlinley.com

Oenophile RIEDEL

Amadeo Decanter

- Menta

This unique, handmade decanter is characterised by a mint colour, giving it a new, modern aesthetic. Boasting a beautiful but challenging design, a standard 750ml bottle of wine will fill to the decanters widest point allowing maximum aeration, £550. www.riedel.com

Aesthete LALIQUE Bacchantes Bowl

This vase bowl has become a lasting symbol of Lalique’s celebrated style and its meticulous detailing, carved by the hand of a craftsman, adds a playful use of light and dimension, £2,550. www.lalique.com

HOW We’d SPEND IT!

Fashionista DIOR Explorer Tote

An ideal bag for a weekend getaway or all day long as you’re on the move. Crafted in Dior oblique mirage blackgrained calfskin, £1,900. www.dior.com

Scribe MONTBLANC

Great Characters Jimi Hendrix Limited Edition 99

Inspired by the Woodstock Festival in 1969, the pen is engraved with Jimi Hendrix’s songs on a sold white gold plaque and the solid white gold forepart is engraved with his signature, £33,500. www.montblanc.com

Editor’s Pick

Interior Designer DIOR

Toile de Jouy Chair

Using the motif that adorns Monsieur Dior’s first boutique, this chair crafted in beechwood is the perfect statement piece for any room, £POA. www.dior.com

Early Riser

LA PAVONI

Esperto Edotto Lever Coffee Machine

The perfect gift for the ultimate barista experience, La Pavoni’s unique coffee machines not only produce the ultimate espresso but are a work of art, £1,649.95. www.shop.smeguk.com

Epicurean

OFFICINE GULLO

Fiorentina

48 Range Cooker

Connoisseur

CRAFT IRISH WHISKEY Taoscán Collector’s Edition

The world’s first and only Port & Chestnut whiskey, ingeniously and innovatively crafted. Matured in American Oak Bourbon and Sherry Oloroso, split and finished in Tawny Port and Chestnut, £1,200. www.craftirishwhiskey.com

OUR LUXURIOUS SELECTION OF GIFTS FOR THE…

Dress your kitchen up in 24-carat gold with this elegant range cooker in pastel blue and gold finish. www.officinegullo.com

Luxury Gamer

JONATHAN ADLER

Kensington Backgammon Set

Crafted in couture lacquer and featuring a classic two-toned blue case this beautiful backgammon set is a cool cocktail table accent, £425. uk.jonathanadler.com

Music Lover

QUIET MARK

Yamaha Silent Guitar

No matter where you are - play a tune with this cutting-edge design Silent Guitar by Yamaha, £807 www.quietmark.com

CHRISTIAN

The lion from Harrods

If you’ve never come across the incredible story of Christian the Lion... where have you been?

Christian was originally acquired by Harrods from the now-defunct zoo park in Ilfracombe and subsequently bought by John Rendall and Ace Bourke for 250 Guineas (approx. £265).

The friends took him back to their furniture shop – Sophistocat – where they both worked on the King’s Road in Chelsea. Above the shop was a flat where Christian was able to roam freely or in the shop where he had his den in the back. As the lion grew the pair knew it was time for Christian to return ‘home’. That story is one of legends and the accompanying documentary and YouTube videos have been viewed by millions.

We meet Derek Cattani – who was there from the very beginning and the man who captured so many enduring images.

This is his story of ‘How I met Christian the Lion...’

In the 60’s and 70’s The King’s Road in Chelsea was a mecca for fascinating people and party invites, and it was at a Chelsea party where I first met John Rendall and Ace Bourke. I was a young Fleet Street photographer working for the Daily Mail always on the hunt for an interesting picture story. When I heard their story about buying a lion from Harrods and taking it for walks down the King’s Road, I just knew I had to meet this lion cub.

A few days later, I was invited to Sophistocat pine furniture shop in the World’s End, Chelsea where John and Ace worked to meet Christian. He was then a three-month-old cuddly cub with the most amazing eyes and sharp teeth and I realised that I would have to get to know this beautiful little cub if I was to get good photographs, so instead of grabbing my camera and shooting away I just sat in the corner of his large den which was a room at the back of the furniture shop and watched him, and waited. Eventually, curiosity overcame him, and after a short while, Christian inched his way towards me and then pushed his head onto mine. John explained that this was a sure sign of welcome so over the following weeks I made regular visits and slowly gained Christian’s trust, and John and Ace’s approval of my patient attitude towards Christian. They saw that I was not just after a snarling one-off picture of him for a newspaper feature, so they offered me the job as Christian’s official photographer, which I immediately agreed to.

Christian soon accepted me as one of his `human pride`. To him my camera was just a normal attachment to my arm and not something to be afraid of or chew and being a very inquisitive playful lion everything had to be investigated. I could now spend long periods being with him, he would just ignore the fact I was there capturing his next move. Some of my favourite moments were of him in John and Ace’s flat taking over the TV lounge, sitting in his favourite cool place next to the bathroom sink or just hanging out around the flat – surely a unique location for photographing a lion. As Christian gained in size so did the cost of his meals and to get some cash flow to contribute, John, Ace and I came up with a few fun picture stories which we could sell to the now eager Fleet Street press. The Easter chicks feature was published as a centre page spread in the Daily Mail with magazines in Europe also publishing the photographs. We never pushed Christian to do anything he didn’t naturally want to do. Playing with a football in Moravian Close a high-walled vicarage in Chelsea, was his favourite pastime, I was fortunate to have captured a shot of Christian making a friendly tackle on John which won me a first award in the World Ilford photo competition that year, as were fun car trips down the King’s Road, his gentle nature allowed him to be with children and friends alike.

It was my good fortune to be invited to go with John, Ace, Christian, and a film crew to Kenya to document the first stage of his rehabilitation with George Adamson, the world-famous conservationist, and being part of his London pride we all gained comfort of being together in such a strange and wondrous land.

Christian had to adapt to the harsh bush surrounds, stoney, and thorn-covered ground, a world away from the smooth carpets of the flat and grass play areas.

For me, Christian gave me such a lasting love of animals and especially the beauty of the beautiful wild lion that he was to become.

I am now a director of LionAid, a charity specifically set up to save the African wild lion prides. When I was in Africa there were some 250,000 reported sightings, and now the latest estimate is some 15,000, a tragic decline for such a magnificent animal through no fault of their existence.

Prints are available for sale in support of LionAid: www.christianthelionprints.com

For further information on LionAid: www.lionaid.org E

VOLUTES

It’s late afternoon in Mayfair, when foreign shoppers and suited pedestrians turn into patrons across London bars. The lights dim across for quiet conversation, and lovers choose a corner for intimate chats. An Italian cigar sommelier has surrendered himself into a dark leather chair at the Connaught Cigar Merchants. Signor Giuliano Santilli is off duty, smoking Quai d’Orsay 54 and, like a gentleman, offers me the same and a dry Negroni. “Or will you prefer a Manhattan with a Smoking Twist?” He almost charms me out of my usual.

Tito serves us olives and Taralli flavoured with chilli and parmesan for our aperitivo.

While I light my cigar with a match, the pin-holed floor catches my attention. It’s designed by Bryan O’Sullivan Studio with a Swiss extraction system. Solid oak panelling. You may recognise the quality from other cigar clubs; DeArt of Italy crafted the room, the cigar lockers, the humidors, and spirit shelves. DeArt: this humble North Italian family company is eponymous in the cigar world; they really brought the gold standard in for humidor boxes and walk-in humidors. “Look at the lighting.” Subtle, elegant, and warm. Nothing of the piercing LED nonsense in this haven. “The ceiling matches the flooring. The warm wood embraces us, like an exquisite log cabin in Mayfair.” The barman even offers me a blanket as the extraction is quite cold. Ornate bottles of vintage Armanacs, Cognacs and Japanese whiskeys adorn the wall behind the barman. The resident Master of Cigars has sourced an impressive collection of Cubans despite the restrictions. Cohibas and Montecristos for miles, and then aged and rare. Let’s not mention them!

Ashing our smokes into a smoked glass Lalique ashtray, we talk on the very serious subject of Cubans. The main issue is how to avoid our favourite sticks from being smoked out of existence. The riots in Cuba, the subsequent export restrictions and price hikes on the emporium have made it difficult for many of us to source and hold quantities of Cuban cigars. Many people have pushed themselves into New World cigars. I could name a few enjoyable sticks. However, in London my favourite haunts are only usually sampling Cubans.

A few days later we’re in North Italy smoking a Montecristo with Silvano and Massimo de Munari, mesmerised by a polished wooden music box playing Mozart. They’ve heard them over and again, but still listen! The tone is unlike any music of today. It is warm to the ears, innocent. Then there’s the ticking of a few Grandfather clocks; gilt details and colours I’ve never seen. “Come and see the factory.” De Munari ushers us into his company’s fastidious warehouse full of machines and pre-fabricated constructions; jewel boxes in raw Spanish cedar, coated in resin and sanded: an entire walk-in humidor in its final stages and even yacht interiors numbered with codes.

He shows me parts due for the Azimut S7. He explains, “You will understand when you see the boat put together. We have the design and we label the pieces like this, to give the assembler the chance to make it quickly in Torino where their factory is.” Azimut is one of Italy’s prizewinning yacht makers, known for elegant seafaring lines, super-luxury interiors designed for aesthetics and comfort.

Fast forward to Salone Nautico in Genova. It’s sunny and we’re on board the Azimut S8. A private luxury villa on water. The deck is smooth under the feet, the carpet is thick and bouncy. Velvet headboards, silk linens, polished-wood drawers and marble ensuites. We open the wardrobes and we recognise the S7 constructions back in the factory. The hanging space graded like the side of the boat and the panels are removable for any works that are required by engineers.

The interiors for San Lorenzo Blue Game 54 is also the work of DeArt craftsmen. After the easy charm of this boat, the first thing we notice is the difference in design style. The main deck window is an industry standard inward facing panel like a tug boat. All the metallic touches are finished in a warm tone to evoke cosiness. “The boat is designed for weeks at a time, you want to feel at home.” v

Leila Russack our cigar afficianado is a local resident and avid cigar smoker, prolific in creating dark disco as Miss Zagato in her analog studio (Oraculo Records, La Dame Noir, Kyma) and Bossa Nova in a smoking garden surrounded by Hydrangeas, Daphnes, Wisteria, Hostas and poppies. With Volutes she takes us into the world of cigars.

< Photo: Vianney Le Caer The Connaught Cigar Merchants

Oscuro at The Arts Club

San Lorenzo Blue Game 54

Group Wine Director for Caprice Holdings, Terry Kandylis, has 20 years of experience within the drinks industry. He was awarded UK Sommelier of the Year in 2016, Greek Sommelier of the Year in 2015, and was a semi-finalist in the Best Sommelier of Europe competition. Kandylis started his career in his native Greece, where he worked in several fine-dining restaurants before moving to the UK in 2010.

Whether you travel from Athens to Zakynthos or beyond, you will not find a more anticipated restaurant opening than Richard Caring’s Bacchanalia. Our Editor, Christina Raptis, speaks with the charming Terry to discover more.

Nectar of the Gods BACCHANALIA

Kissed by the gods, inspired by the muses, Bacchanalia, the brand-new restaurant concept from Caprice Holdings, has just opened at One Mount Street, bringing an unforgettable dining destination to the heart of London. Offering an immersive experience, Bacchanalia celebrates exceptional Greek and Italian cuisine, exquisite wines, and exuberant revelry.

Richard Caring’s latest restaurant transports diners into another world of heightened senses and imaginings and features a breath-taking dining room like no other. A grand and glorious space filled with 2,000-year-old antiques, spectacular giant sculptures by world-leading artist Damien Hirst, and an array of both period and modern Greek and Roman art. Bacchanalia is a unique restaurant, where celebrating Bacchus the God of Wine and pleasure is at the epicentre of the Italian and Greek cuisine and culture on offer.

Bacchanalia is the place to discover several rare and distinctive wines with 650 different references on the menu. The wine programme mirrors the journey of the vine from the ancient world of Greece, where individuals first domesticated and started trading wine, through to Rome where the Romans spread the vine culture even further to reach every corner of the so-called Old World. The journey doesn’t stop in the renowned vineyards of Europe but continues to the famous regions of the New World, where the vine is celebrated in the same fashion.

Their selection of Greek wines focus on native varieties that will surprise and delight guests with their unique flavour profiles and elements. At the core of the offering are the Italian wines, with two amazing collections named Apollo and Bacchus, paying tribute to the gods of light and wine respectively.

Apollo’s collection is the largest Antinori’s Solaia collection that has ever been put together in the UK, with over 45+ references including large formats of up to six litres and vintages coming directly from the winery to Bacchanalia. There is also a wide selection of other Super Tuscan wines including several vintages from the iconic estates of Sassicaia and Ornellaia. The sunniest plot of the Antinori’s Tignanello estate in Tuscany is the best ambassador to celebrate the God of Light, as Galileo Galilei famously said, “Wine is sunlight, held together by water.”

Bacchus’s collection is a magnificent selection of the ‘perfect’ Italian 100-point wines - these score the maximum points in the ground-breaking Parker System by renowned wine critic Robert Parker, Bacchanalia houses the largest collection of Wine Advocate 100-point wines in London. Wines include both vintages of Giacomo’s Conterno Barolo Monfortino (2004 & 2010), Bartolo Mascarello Barolo 2016 and Sassicaia 1985 amongst others.

Guests will also be able to taste a selection of own-label Bacchanalia wines including two champagnes, red, whites, and rosé. Bacchanalia is sure to be the hottest ticket in town and we’ve not even mentioned the fabulous Greek and Italian food that the restaurant promises, I for one can’t wait to experience it. YAMAS!

THE HUT

For those in the know

It is no understatement to say that the British love a party. What’s incredible to me is the lengths people will go to for one. And then I discovered The Hut. The bestknown secret in the culinary world. This Isle of Wight institution is full to the brim with the cognoscenti trailblazing to the tiny island in search of fabulous food, a mediterraneanstyle location, and memories for a lifetime.

The success of the restaurant reflects its two owners - George and Matt Adams - both have an easy smile and a very welcoming attitude. A trait that permeates through the whole team from Steve who heads up operations to each bar and wait staff member.

The smart set arrive at the restaurant via their tender - while scheduled trains to Lymington or Southampton allow for easy access on the ferry. The Hut is all about water’s edge dining and escaping. George and Matt Adams must have seen the classic Kevin Costner movie - Field of Dreamswhere he’s told, ‘If you build it, they will come’ and boy do they come to The Hutin their throngs.

The Hut is an easy-going beach restaurant that serves an unrivalled passion for simple

yet delicious food, in a relaxed, beach-front location with stunning views.

Serving delicious fresh seafood and grilled meats in an alfresco and buzzy atmosphere, the Hut creates a unique dining experience which is informal but unforgettable.

There is no big secret to the culinary success - Chef Ian Daw uses fresh ingredients which are carefully prepared to create simple yet flavourful dishes - accompanied, of course, by a signature glass of rose!

Pak Choi, Fregola, Coconut & Kaafir Lime Sauce are favourites. The more adventurous like Spicy grilled Spatchcock Korean Poussin, Choi Sum, Chilli & Jasmine Rice.

The star of the show is their Seafood Platter - abundant and decadent - best shared with friends.

Chef Ian tells me that a recent special he added to the menu - Indonesian Curry - was so popular that almost 80 out of 100 guests opted for it. Guests were calling and asking for it to be placed on the menu permanently!

It’s not just the seafood and fish though, Sunday Roasts are a huge hit, complete with perfectly cooked roast potatoes. Their rooftop bar with panoramic views and creative cocktails is the perfect setting to pass away endless hours.

His skill in combining the classics with creative touches ensures that the food remains the focal point.

Seafood, naturally at this seafront location steals the show. Dishes including Whole Sea Bream with Mussel & Fennel Ragu, Orange Dressing, Seabass Fillet served with

The Hut is only open seasonally from April to the end of October and booking a table is a must. The fabulous seafood restaurant The Hut which I sadly only just discovered, is celebrating their 10-year anniversary next year - apparently a lot of people do know!

www.thehutcolwell.co.uk

The Hut makes its guests feel like they have gone on holiday when they have just gone out for lunch.

CIRQUE DU SOLEIL KURIOS - CABINET OF CURIOSITIES Royal Albert Hall

13 January 2023 - 12 February 2023

Critically-acclaimed the world over, KURIOS - Cabinet of Curiosities astonishingly revisits the signature Cirque du Soleil style of performance by weaving jaw-dropping acrobatics with a refreshing touch of poetry, artistry, and humour. Featuring never seen before acts, KURIOS is a mind-boggling escape from reality, unveiling a festive, steampunk-inspired universe where the unexpected lies at every corner.

DIARY DATES

Photo: Mathew Tsang www.royalalberthall.com

BARBARA CHASE-RIBOUD: INFINITE FOLDS

Serpentine North

Now – 29 January 2023

Admission: Free

Infinite Folds features over 30 works by American-born visual artist, sculptor, novelist, and poet Barbara Chase-Riboud. With a career spanning over seven decades, Chase-Riboud’s innovation in sculptural technique and materiality is characterised by the interplay between folds of cast bronze and aluminium and coils of wool and silk which are knotted, braided, looped, and woven. www.serpentinegalleries.org

STEPHEN HAWKING AT WORK

Science Museum

10 February 2022 – March 2023

Admission: Free

This new special display will give an insight into the working life of the world-renowned theoretical physicist, where you can marvel at the extraordinary contents of Hawking’s office. Highlight objects going on display for the first time include a rare copy of Hawking’s PhD thesis, his wheelchair, and Hawking’s most treasured office possession, a blackboard filled with academic doodles and jokes. www.sciencemuseum.org.uk

SCIENCE

THE CARPENTERS’ LINE: WOODWORKING HERITAGE IN HIDA TAKAYAMA

Japan House

Now - 29 January 2023

Admission: Free

The exhibition celebrates the essence of Japanese craftsmanship through the story of an enduring woodworking heritage cultivated in the densely forested Hida region of Gifu Prefecture in central Japan. From the raw materials of the Hida forests and the tools developed to work them, to the involvement of Hida craftsmanship in global furniture design of today. www.japanhouselondon.uk

FICTION: VOYAGE TO THE EDGE OF IMAGINATION

Science Museum

Now - 4 May 2023

Admission: £20

Guided by an artificial intelligence of alien origin, you will be placed at the heart of an exciting science fiction adventure. Board and explore a unique spaceship, scout an unknown planet, and investigate how scientists and science fiction creators have imagined and built new worlds to better understand our own. www.sciencemuseum.org.uk

Photo: Full size replica Dalek from T.V. series Doctor Who being conserved

Photo: © Jo Underhill

BUTTERFLY EFFECT: NEW WORK BY LILY MIXE

Saatchi Gallery

3 November – 4 December 2022

Admission: Free

A showcase of new works by Margate-based French artist Lily Mixe. This solo exhibition includes a series of works created on found materials such as vintage bottles and furniture panels and will also showcase a specially commissioned 15 metre mural of a whale, incorporating chalk salvaged from cliff falls on the Kent coast. www.saatchigallery.com

THE NEW BLACK VANGUARD: PHOTOGRAPHY BETWEEN ART AND FASHION

Saatchi Gallery

28 October 2022 - 22 January 2023

Admission: £10 - Free for Saatchi Gallery Members

A ground-breaking exhibition featuring 15 international Black photographers contributing to a new vision of the Black figure and reframing representation in art and fashion. Curated by Antwaun Sargent, the exhibition focusses on fashion portraiture that is celebratory of Black culture. www.saatchigallery.com

Photo: Dana Scruggs, Fire on the Beach, 2019

KAMALA IBRAHIM ISHAG: STATES OF ONENESS

Serpentine South

7 October 2022 – 29 January 2023

Admission: Free

The Serpentine presents a major exhibition of pioneering Sudanese artist Kamala Ibrahim Ishag (b. 1939). The exhibition celebrates the breadth and importance of Ishag’s work and offers insights into her worlds, works spanning from the 1960s to the present, in addition to new paintings created in her Khartoum studio that have previously never been presented. www.serpentinegalleries.org

Photo: George Darrell

HALLYU! THE KOREAN WAVE

Victoria and Albert Museum

Supported by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism - Republic of Korea and Genesis

Now - 25 June 2023

Admission: £20

Showcasing the colourful and dynamic popular culture of South Korea, this exhibition explores the makings of the Korean Wave and its global impact on the creative industries of cinema, drama, music, fandom, beauty, and fashion. www.vam.ac.uk

DIARY DATES

WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHER OF THE YEAR

Natural History Museum

14 October 2022 - 2 July 2023

Admission: from £17. Members go free

Discover the natural world in all its wonder and diversity at the newly redesigned Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition, where 100 remarkable photographs illustrate the precious beauty of our planet. www.nhm.ac.uk

YOGA AT THE NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM

Various dates until March 2023

Admission: £35 Members: £31.50

Find your zen at the Natural History Museum with a yoga class hosted in collaboration with East of Eden Energise your body and move through a series of ancient yogic movements beneath Hintze Hall’s magnificent blue whale skeleton for a yoga experience amongst the treasures of the natural world. www.nhm.ac.uk

WEIRD SENSATION FEELS GOOD: THE WORLD OF ASMR Design Museum

Now - 10 April 2023

Admission: From £9.50

This is the first exhibition of its kind to lift the world of ASMR out from your screen and into physical space. Step into an acoustically tuned environment and understand how people are using new and existing tools and materials to navigate our complex world. www.designmuseum.org

AFRICA FASHION

Victoria and Albert Museum

Now - 16 April 2023

Admission: £16

Spanning iconic mid-20th century to contemporary creatives through photographs, textiles, music, and the visual arts, Africa Fashion explores the vitality and global impact of a fashion scene as dynamic and varied as the continent itself. www.vam.ac.uk

Alchemy collection, Thebe Magugu, A/W 2021, Johannesburg, South Africa.

Photo: Tatenda Chidora

Photo: Chris Milk

One Authentic

PROPERTIES

summer

At One Authentic Properties, we want to create the delight of “three summer days” however long you staytaking care of everything so you can enjoy precious time with those you love.

Choose from one of our two water’s edge villas in St Tropez or our two sumptuous chalets in Courchevel 1850.

Our discrete, polite and professional staff are on hand at all times. Unobtrusively ensuring you and your family are always well looked after. At your disposal is an attentive butler, a talented chef, a driver brimming with local knowledge as well as a villa manager, concierge and, of course, a housekeeping manager focused on the details.

We couldn’t put it better than a recent guest: “We came here with a schedule full of lunch and dinner reservations. Somehow, the days just went by and we hardly ever went. When we did, we wondered why when we had the best table in town right here at home”

Beautiful

Lateral living area on the top floor sweeping views across the mountains

Secure and private domain - Spa - Cinema - Luxurious dining

Les Parcs

Panoramic Sea View - Peninsula location Yacht mooring - Helipad

sweeping view of the bay of Canoubier at the end of your 8000sqm landscaped garden.

Yacht mooring - Helipad

Simply stunning. Sparkling marble and glass with accents of gold Ski in ski out - Spa - Cinema - Luxurious dining

"I almost wish we were butterflies and lived but three

days. Three days with you I couldn’t fill with more delight than fifty common years could ever contain" John Keats

Amanda Nutter - Client Relations

ANDREW MARTIN INTERIOR DESIGNER OF THE YEAR AWARDS V&A MUSEUM

awards ceremony was held at the V&A Museum in London, to celebrate the 26th anniversary of the Andrew Martin International

Aspecial

Designer of the Year Awards. Founded by Martin Waller in 1996, the Awards are created to shine a spotlight on the very best international interior design talent and as a means to recognise the extraordinary designers on the world stage today.

To mark the occasion, Martin Waller, the company’s founder, presented the award programme’s first-ever Lifetime Achievement

Anouska Hempel

Interior

Award to Anouska Hempel

HRH Prince and Princess Michael of Kent, Anouska Hempel

Sarah, Duchess of York

Sophie Patterson and Martin Waller

Kimberleigh Garner Sir Mark Weinberg

Nina Campbell and Guest Miles De Lange and Timothy Mather

Serena Armstrong-Jones, Countess of Snowdon, and Charles & Pandora Delevingne

BUSY Lizzie!

ANGEL BALL

Denise Rich and her daughters Daniela Rich Kilstock and Ilona Rich Schachter - founders of the Gabrielle’s Angel Foundation for Cancer Research welcomed many sincere and generous supporters to the Angel Ball at Cipriani Wall Street. The star-studded event raised $2.8m. I was also delighted to meet the Mexican Singer/Actor/Film producer Fernando Allende and his wife Mari, who will be in UK mid-November, staying with Lady Wilnelia Forsyth to celebrate his birthday! Fernando is the star of a new American TV series ‘Mexican Dynasties’. Guests included: Tommy Hilfiger and his wife Dee, Chaka Khan, Joy Corrigan, and Candace Bushnell.

GIORGIO ARMANI Sloane Street Boutique

I enjoyed some conversation and bubbles with Georgia Viera, Actor Christian Vit and his delightfully vibrant sister Sharon Vit, Retail Director of Giorgio Armani.

GALA and Princess Yasmin Aga Khan receives Legion d’Honour Princess Yasmin Aga Khan’s annual Gala benefiting her late mother’s Rita Hayworth Alzheimer Association. Raising a record amount to continue researching this heart-breaking disease. I was honoured to join her being bestowed

HAYWORTH

Michele Herbert, Louise & Stephen Kornfeld & Liz Brewer

RITA

ALZHEIMER

with the Legion d’Honor at the French Consulate.

Philippe Etienne, Ambassador of France to the United States, Princess Yasmin Aga Khan, Jérémie Robert, Consul General of France in New York and French journalist Caroline Pigozzi

We join Liz Brewer, the UK’s foremost Etiquette Expert, TV Commentator, Author, and Social Fixer, as she attends the most glamorous and interesting events in London and beyond, and - especially for Halloween - beyond the beyond!

Fernando Allende, Michele Rella, Mari Allend, Frank Rella

Daniela Rich Kilstock

Tommy Hilfiger, Denise Rich and Dee Hilfiger

Joy Corrigan

SALLY FISZMAN’S Halloween Party 2 years in the making!!!

A ghostly, grisly transformation of One Marylebone Road, matched the 300 guests in fabulous costumes making it virtually impossible to recognise anyone - let alone our ghostly gothic attired hostess Sally! Champagne, entertainers and Magician DYNAMO!

Arrived with my own ghoulie - Wayne Sleep OBE and lovely friend Niki Cole dressed as a very glamorous ‘High class hooker from Hell’. Despite their costumes, I managed to recognise, Jilly Johnson, Susan Bernerd & Roger Moss, Harvey & Angela Sonning, Kimberley Robson.

An

HSH

I also enjoyed

NIKI COLE LUNCH AND ANNOUNCEMENT OF JAD GHANDOUR AUTUMN COLLECTION

Clockwise from top left: Jad Ghandour, Liz Brewer, Juliet Mayhew, Besssy Lemos, Soha Edris, Claudia van Leer, Olga Betsiroits, Eda Abkar, Kareem Abu, Lisa Tchenguiz, Monica Perlman, Niki Cole, Lavender Howard, Relinda Abu & Adam Blanshay

On the eve of my departure to the US, Niki Cole hosted a vibrant and delicious private lunch for 21 guests at China Tang at which dashing, debonair Jad Ghandour announced his Autumn collection.

Producer Adam Blanshay and Liz Brewer

Jad Ghandour and Lavender Howard Kareem & Relinda Abu

Davide Zur Goldstaub

inspirational occasion, at the Saatchi Gallery, attending with my daughter Tallulah Rendall. Artist Alexander de Cadenet’s launch of his latest haunting series of famous "skull portraits", created using photos of the actual skulls, of the Florentine rulers’ taken from within the Michelangelo tomb, including the celebrated Medici Family. Also viewing was Guest of honour, the effervescent

Princess Adelheid Coudenhove-Kalergi of Liechtenstein. Pat Doherty, Tony Lorenz, Davide zur Goldstaub.

meeting sculptor Beth Cullen-Kerridge with her husband chef Tom Kerridge.

Sculptor Beth Cullen-Kerridge and Tom Kerridge

Alexander de Cadenet with HSH Princess Adelheid Coudenhove-Kalergi of Liechtenstein

Alexander de Cadenet’s MEDICI SKULLS has a haunting pride of place at the SAATCHI GALLERY

Polly Shalson Sally Fiszman

Wayne Sleep, Liz Brewer, Niki Cole and Peregrine Armstrong-Jones

Pat Doherty and Liz Brewer

THE OTHER HOUSE LAUNCH PARTY

DITA LAUNCHES IN KNIGHTSBRIDGE

and jam-packed launch party, complete with some real characters (there were even a few from The Lion King cast!) saw the neighbourhood welcome the truly-stunning The Other House. This new sector of residents-club offers apartment-style living in Club Flats with fivestar hotel services. Spread across multiple renovated townhouses which have been transformed into a cool space complete with atriums, spa, member’s club, meeting rooms, swimming pool, and multiple bar/dining options. The beautiful and charming Naomi Heaton is CEO and the mastermind behind the project and its design. Cosy nooks, elegant meeting rooms, a buzzy restaurant and bar all ensure The Other House is sure to become a go-to destination - you’ll just have to decide how long to go for! www.otherhouse.com

Arocking

DITA - the luxury hand-crafted eyewear brand opens their first European store in the heart of Knightsbridge DITA Knightsbridge sits in eminent geographic company alongside their other stores in Rodeo Drive, Melrose, Newport Beach, San Francisco, SoHo, Madison Ave, Sydney, Aoyama & Daikanyama, with a new flagship under construction on Paris’ Rue Saint-Honoré. To celebrate the launch the boutique hosted a lavish party where cocktails and canapés were enjoyed by guests including: Maria Khalifa, Erna Leon, Olivia and Alice, Nico Yennaris, Sony Turner, Tayo Cardoso. www.dita.com

Lady Mary Charteris and Naomi Heaton

Lady Victoria Hervey Hugo Taylor

Sarah Lindsay

Sophie Hermann and Pips Taylor

Diana Vickers

Elizabeth Day and Beatrice Kight

Laura Pradelska

THE FULL FORCE OF McL AREN.

AVAILABLE NOW

McLaren London 020 8031 7407

Fuel consumption combined: 4.6l/100km. Estimated CO2 emissions combined: 104g/km. For McLaren Automotive’s emissions statement please go to cars.mclaren.com