Home & Lifestyle Magazine, ED83 (November / December 2022)

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Sally Cullens. Mobile: (+34) 622 400 055 info@homeandlifestyle.es

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The publisher makes every effort to ensure that the magazine’s contents are correct, but cannot accept responsibility for the effects of errors or omissions. Home & Lifestyle Magazine reserves the right to refuse to publish any advertisement deemed detrimental to the best interests of the community or that is in questionable taste, and cannot accept responsibility for the claims, goods or services of advertisers. The views and opinions expressed by contributors in Home & Lifestyle Magazine do not necessarily reflect the views of the editor or the publisher. Products and prices mentioned are subject to change without prior notice. No part of this magazine may be reproduced or copied in any way without the prior written consent of Home & Lifestyle Magazine. Home & Lifestyle Magazine is delivered across the Costa del Sol and Gibraltar. Subscription rates are €60 per year.

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EDITOR’S

Nature has always played a key role in our homes, whether we live in an urban apartment or a countryside villa. Obviously, the latter provides greater scope and opportunities for us to balance our everyday lives with the beauty and tranquillity of natural surroundings. However, even if our home is in the town centre, and its only “direct” contact with the outdoors is a terrace or patio, we can still embrace nature with verdant pot plants and healthy mini herb gardens.

In recent times, nature has also begun (once again) to have a significant influence on the materials we use in our furniture. Wood, stone and bamboo, for example, are now commonplace in both modern and newly refurbished older homes, while fabrics for curtains, seat/sofa covers, cushions, linen and wallcoverings are usually sustainably sourced – at least by the Costa del Sol’s leading professionals and showrooms. Furthermore, the energy crisis has encouraged us to pay more attention to environmental concerns – as well as our budgets – and investigate such latest-generation home-fitting options as ventilated façades, thermally broken windows and doors, and automated illumination systems.

Nature even finds its way into our colour choices, with earthy hues becoming increasingly popular in certain parts of the home. Now this passion for natural aesthetics has been reflected in Dulux’s selection of “Wild Wonder” as their colour of the year for 2023.

“Time and time again,” they note, “we look to nature as a source of inspiration for our homes. It brings a sense of balance to our busy lives and acts as a springboard for our creativity. Inspired by the warm tones of harvested crops, this hue connects us to the natural world, creating a sense of energy and positivity in our living spaces. Even its name conjures up the freedom of nature and conveys the magic of the natural world.”

This constantly evolving commitment to natural, sustainable and environmentally friendly trends and options is, understandably, emphasised at the world’s premier home décor and design trade fairs.

At this year’s London Design Festival, a global forum on “Design Responsibly: Designing A Better Future in the Metaverse” explored how design “can not only address social, environmental and economic issues, but also contribute positively to societal aspirations beyond consumer demands and commercial needs, break down barriers and create a more equitable and tolerant world for all”.

In Spain, the annual Feria Hábitat coincided this year with Valencia’s designation as the 2022 World Design Capital, whose aims have been “to promote the activity and enhance the quality of this creative sector, making it the main agent for social change and urban innovation”. To that end, the Valencia region began the year with the key objective of “generating a whole series of initiatives that will project design beyond 2022, generating a legacy that will transcend and become established as a key value of local and national social fabric”.

Looking ahead, the next Maison & Objet exhibition in Paris (19-23 January) will also be aiming to extend that legacy by operating under a new thematic banner of “engagement and social responsibility”.

Returning to the subject of nature, one of the most pleasurable ways to enjoy its splendour is by playing sport or indulging in other outdoor pursuits – and the Costa del Sol’s climate makes that an absolute joy throughout the year. It also means we have the opportunity of attending many top-level international events close to home.

As the year draws to a close, there are two more major dates to add to your diary: 22-27 November, when the Davis Cup tennis finals will be held at Málaga’s Martín Carpena pavillion; and 24-27 November for the Andalucía Costa del Sol Open de España (this season’s grand finale of the Ladies European Tour) at the Antantara Villa Padierna Palace resort.

In the meantime, however you close out your own 2022, we extend our warm wishes for the festive season and hope you can fully enjoy the serene delights of nature as you share this precious time of the year with family and friends.

Peter Leonard, Editor

TRANSFORMATIONAL LIGHTING IDEAS

When it comes to the interior design of a home, and this is also just as relevant to the outside spaces, lighting can be pivot al. Decorative lighting adds an aesthetic warmth and appeal, while architectural lighting, such as LED downlighting over a kitchen surface or strips along the sides of a stairway or path way, are also highly practical. During the winter months, making your home more welcoming and cosier can be purely a matter of adding some tweaks to your lighting. A large room might be crying out for a suspended light or chandelier with pockets of lighting to make the space feel more intimate. Dimmers are al ways a great option if during the day the room receives a lot of natural sunlight. This means you can control the amount of arti ficial light you need as the night draws in. The world of portable lamps has come on leaps and bounds in terms of design and technology, allowing you to move your lighting around as and when you require it, with battery life lasting longer than ever.

Opposite Page The Levante chandelier by Luceplan appears like an organism floating in space. The lamp has a lightweight aesthetic with intersecting fans that look like rice paper, giving it an oriental look. Luceplan is available from Ges Lighting in C/ Uranio in Polígono Industrial La Ermita in Marbella (www.grupoelectrostocks.com)

The Wohlert pendant lamp by Louis Poulsen provides uniform diffused illumination through its mouth-blown, matte-white opal glass. At the bottom of the shade a direct light is pro duced downwards (www.louispoulsen.dk)

Inspired by the concept that light is the source of life, the Malagola pendant lamp from Catel lani & Smith is shaped like an open seed. The rich metallic leaf is coated in aluminium, ap pearing like a precious relic from an ancient civilisation. It is shown here with their showstop ping Macchina della Luce hanging lamp that features five diffuser discs cascading down in tiers of gleaming beauty. Cattelani & Smith is available from Acoola in Pol. Ind. San Pedro de Alcántara (www.acoola.eu) and Ges Lighting in Calle Uranio in Polígono Industrial La Ermita in Marbella (www.grupoelectrostocks.com)

The Argent suspension lamp, de signed by Dodo Arslan for Terzani, appears like a shimmering formation and can be custom-made. It com prises a cluster of metal discs that have been meticulously shaped by the hands of artisans. When illumi nated, the light reflects off the many angled surfaces of the discs in an awe-inspiring glow. Argent comes in stainless-steel, champagne, rose gold and gold-plated finish. Terzani is available from Ges Lighting in C/ Uranio in Pol. Ind. La Ermita in Marbella (www.grupoelectrostocks.com)

A stunning contemporary chan delier inspired by bunches of flow ers, the Apiales 9 ceiling lamp was designed by Sofie Refer for Nuura. Its slender metal frame has been fitted with nine mouth-blown glass domes that softly filter the light Nuura is available from Acoola in Pol. Ind. San Pedro de Alcántara (www.acoola.eu)

TOP OF THE TABLE

Right The Pantop Portable offers a high level of flexibility that allows you to take the light wherever you require it. It has seven hours of operating time, with a three-stage dimmer enabling you to adjust the light level for the right occasion (www.verpan.com)

Below Right This stunning ceramic table lamp by Thai Natura features a luxurious metallic triangular pattern that offers a con temporary geometric detail. Thai Natura is available from Acoola in Pol. Ind. San Pedro de Alcántara (www.acoola.eu)

Below The cordless FollowMe Plus portable lamp by Marset comes with an oak handle and a tilting white polycarbonate shade that is ideal for direct light for reading. It has a three-po sition dimmer to control the intensity of light, with a high-efficien cy lithium-Ion battery that powers them for five to 20 hours, as well as a USB-C input to facilitate charging. Marset is available from Ges Lighting in C/ Uranio in Polígono Industrial La Ermita in Marbella (www.grupoelectrostocks.com), Acoola in Pol. Ind. San Pedro de Alcántara (www.acoola.eu) and Siesta Interior Design in CC Plaza in Nueva Andalucía (www.siestainteriordesign.com)

FLOOR LIGHTING

Opposite Page The Bolero is a contemporary design by Oriano Favaretto for Cattelan Italia. The frame comprises a three-dimensional grid in painted steel, partially covered in fabric in soft natural colours. The Bolero comes as either a floor lamp or a hanging light. Cattelan Italia is available through Alison Bethell-Collins Interior Design in Avda. del Mediterráneo, San Pedro de Alcántara (www.alisonbethellcollins.com), Acoola in Pol. Ind. San Pedro de Al cántara (www.acoola.eu) and GC Studio in CC Camoján Corner in Marbella (www.gc-studio.es)

Above The Test-Tree floor lamp by Henge is a sophisticated luminaire that comprises an Ice Onyx stem with brass joints so it can be angled to suit the individual’s needs. Henge is available from Ambience Home Design in Centro Comercial La Poveda in Marbella (www.ambiencehomedesign.com).

OUTDOOR LIGHTING

Left The Mayfair Mini portable lamp by Vibia is ideal for the outdoors as it can be charged by a USB – therefore not re quiring the use of an electrical point. This useful lamp comes in various colours and blends perfectly into any environment. Vibia is available from Ges Lighting in C/ Uranio in Pol. Ind. La Ermita in Marbella (www.grupoelectrostocks.com) and Acoola in Pol. Ind. San Pedro de Alcántara (www.acoola.eu)

Below Eva Solo’s Radiant lamp is simple to operate, with a touch-sensitive switch at the top where you can select be tween three different brightness levels. It provides up to 33 hours of illumination on just one charge via a USB socket. Available directly from Escandi Design on the Mijas Road or buy online at www.escandidesign.com. Eva Solo is also available from Your Home Styling in Centro Nórdico on the Mijas Road (www.yourhomestyling.com)

Opposite Page The Mona by Atelier Alain Ellouz rejoices in the simplicity of a half-ellipsoid made from alabaster with a gilt-brass dimmer switch. This exclusive lamp offers ele gance and radiant light with durability. Lijomi, situated in the Marbella Club, is an exclusive retailer of Atelier Alain Ellouz (www.lijomi.eu)

CREATING RELAXING OUTDOOR SPACES

One of the many attractions of living in southern Europe is being able to enjoy our outdoor spaces almost all year round. So, when designing this part of your home, there should be a natural flow from the inside to the outdoors – creating a seamless continuation of your style. For example, if your home interior is cosy and contemporary, creating this aesthetic in your outside area will give the overall feel a harmonious and considered look. Deep-seated sofas and armchairs, outdoor rugs, outdoor lighting fixtures and firepits are all great ways to make an outdoor area feel cosier during the winter months. Bar areas have become increasingly popular, ideal for entertaining guests and bringing people together to enjoy the garden or to sit around a pool instead of remaining inside in a closed environment. Here is some inspiration for your outdoor spaces…

The Weave collection by Point was launched five years ago and since then has won many international awards. The design was inspired by the way baya weaver birds weave their nests, and designer Vicent Martínez wanted the col lection to be both functional and emotional. Meticulously finished, each part is created by hand and woven strand by strand. The Weave is a large collection comprising 27 elements, including swings, tables, planters, pouffes, sun loungers, sofas and chairs. Point is available from Acoola in Pol. Ind. San Pedro de Alcántara (www.acoola.eu) and Outdoor Concepts at the top of the Boulevard in San Pe dro de Alcántara (www.outdoorconcepts.es)

Left The Kay collection from Gloster offers low wide seating for the ultimate in lounging, in an array of different fabric designs. The frame of the chair is made from teak with a natural finish. Gloster is available through Outdoor Concepts at the top of the Boulevard in San Pedro de Alcántara (www.outdoorconcepts.es), Acoola in Polígono Industrial San Pedro de Alcántara (www.acoola.eu) and A Cielo Abierto in Centro de Negocios Oasis on Marbella’s Golden Mile (www.acieloabierto.net)

Below The Nomad by Four Seasons is a beanbag that offers casual and comfortable seating with a headrest. It comes with a five-year guarantee and is weather-resistant and lightweight, making it easy to move around. Available from A Cielo Abierto in C. de Negocios Oasis on Marbella’s Golden Mile (www.acieloabierto.net) and De Tropen on the Autovía del Mediterráneo A7, Km. 953, Vélez-Málaga, or buy directly online at www.detropen.es

Diabla’s Patoso is a pouffe filled with recyclable polystyrene pearls for optimum comfort. The pouffe comes on legs, thus defining it as a small and casual lounge chair that moulds to the body naturally. Diabla is available through Siesta Interior Design situated in Centro Plaza in Nueva Andalucía (www.siestainteriordesign.com) and Acoola in Polígono Industrial San Pedro de Alcántara (www.acoola.eu)

The design of the modular Argo collection by Talenti was inspired by the mythological wooden boat that sailed around the Greek islands in search of the legendary golden fleece. The Argo aluminium version is char acterised by its contemporary look, large upholstered cushions and soft curvy profile. Shown here with their Key coffee table, and all available from the Tal enti showroom in Puerto Banús (www.talentimarbella.com) and through Acoola in Polígono In dustrial San Pedro de Alcántara (www.acoola.eu)

SWINGING IN LUXURY

Left The elegant Panama egg-shaped chair by Tal enti has a rotating base. The frame is aluminium cov ered with woven ropes and quick foam cushions for the ultimate in comfort. Available from the Talenti showroom in Puerto Banús (www.talentimarbella.com) and through Acoola in Polígono Industrial San Pedro de Alcántara (www.acoola.eu)

Below Designed by Patricia Urquiola, the Egg Swing chair from Kettal’s Maia collection has a frame and shell available in different finishes. It features artisan braiding around a strong aluminium frame, and the design is highlighted by a sophisticated lightness that has been hailed as iconic. Kettal is available through Siesta Interior Design in Centro Plaza in Nueva Anda lucía (www.siestainteriordesign.com), Outdoor Con cepts at the top of the Boulevard in San Pedro de Al cántara (www.outdoorconcepts.es) and Acoola in Pol. Ind. San Pedro de Alcántara (www.acoola.eu)

Designed by Stephen Burks, the Kida hanging lounge chair offers a cradle-like organic structure that welcomes you inside its confines, where you can relax on a comfortable cushion that covers the whole seating area. In the words of the designer himself, you can be “as free as the breeze” when swinging. Dedon is available from Outdoor Concepts at the top of the Boulevard in San Pedro de Alcántara (www.outdoorconcepts.es) and GC Studio in CC Camoján Corner in Marbella (www.gc-studio.es)

LOVELY LOUNGE SETS

Right This bamboo lounge set by North by North typ ifies casual chic style, offering a raw organic look that blends into its natural surroundings. Available online at www.northbynorth.com.

Below The Knit lounge set by Ethimo is a comprehen sive collection of tables, chairs and lounge chairs in teak and woven rope that embraces aesthetic beau ty, functionality and ergonomics. The iconic collection has been enriched by the new version in pickled teak and light grey rope and the rocking version of the lounge chair with a high back. Ethimo is available from Outdoor Concepts at the top of the Boulevard in San Pedro de Alcántara (www.outdoorconcepts.es), Sies ta Interior Design in Centro Plaza in Nueva Andalucía (www.siestainteriordesign.com) and Acoola in Pol. Ind. San Pedro de Alcántara (www.acoola.eu)

PARTY TIME AT HOME

Left These natural teak stools from New Life Home are simple and contemporary, with a wide seat for extra comfort. New Life Home is situated in Avda. de Velázquez in Málaga, or you can buy this product online at www.newlifehome.es

Below Left The Artemisa teak bar stool is covered in goatskin, with each one being unique. It is shown here with the Osaka teak root bar table, which is highly durable and also has an individual character. All available directly from Sybartum on the Mijas Road, or you can buy online at www.sybartum.com

Below The Metris collection from Diphano was devised to bring people together so that they can create unforgetta ble memories. The design of the collection features clean lines that would fit into any style of home. The bar stools come with optional back and seat cushions in Sunbrella fabric for added comfort, matching perfectly with their party table. Available from Acoola in Polígono Industrial San Pedro de Alcántara (www.acoola.eu) and A Cielo Abierto in Centro de Negocios Oasis on Marbella’s Golden Mile (www.acieloabierto.net)

SOPHISTICATED

Opposite Page The elegant Nox dining table from Tribù has a handglazed lava stone slatted top which features a subtle craquelure finish for a unique look. It is heat, water, UV and stain-resistant, and very easy to maintain. The Natal Alu armchair melds functionality with impeccable class and design. The curved seat in Batyline seems to float in its minimalist aluminium frame. Tribù is available through Acoola in Pol. Ind. San Pedro de Alcántara (www.acoola.eu), Outdoor Concepts in San Pedro de Alcántara (www.outdoorconcepts.es)

A Cielo Abierto in Centro de Negocios Oasis on Marbella’s Golden Mile (www.acieloabierto.net) and Siesta Interior Design in C. Plaza in Nueva Andalucía (www.siestainteriordesign.com)

Right The Sunrise collection by Manutti has clean lines and beau tiful curves in teak, upholstered in fabric or Batyline. The design is avant-garde but suits any style of home, making it very versatile. Manutti is available from A Cielo Abierto in C. de Negocios Oasis on Marbella’s Golden Mile (www.acieloabierto.net) and Acoola in Pol. Ind. San Pedro de Alcántara (www.acoola.eu)

Below The Conix dining table from Royal Botania stands on two conical-shaped legs which are cast in fibre-reinforced Ductal con crete with a matching elliptic table top that has been polished and treated to make it less porous. It is shown here with their Folia chair, which features a distinctive design that was inspired by the veins of a leaf to make an artistic statement. It has a stainless-steel frame and comes in a number of powder-coated finishes. Royal Botania is avail able from A Cielo Abierto in Centro de Negocios Oasis on Marbella’s Golden Mile (www.acieloabierto.net), Acoola in Pol. Ind. San Pedro de Alcántara (www.acoola.eu) and Outdoor Concepts, also in San Pedro de Alcántara (www.outdoorconcepts.es)

The Leggera originally was created as an indoor chair in wood but Gio Ponti has adapted the design for the outdoors, using stainless-steel and adopting hydroforming technology that is usually used in the automotive industry, which makes it both weather-resistant and lightweight.

The Lebeau circular dining table is elegant and eye-catching, made from aluminium for outdoor use. Cassina is available through Acoola in Pol. Ind. San Pedro de Alcántara (www.acoola.eu) and Siesta Interior Design in C. Plaza in Nueva Andalucía (www.siestainteriordesign.com)

Designed by Karim Rashid for Von dom, the Pal dining table and chair set is highlighted by an avant-garde and eye-catching shape made out of pol yethylene resin. Vondom is available through A Cielo Abierto in Centro de Negocios Oasis on Marbella’s Gold en Mile (www.acieloabierto.net), Alison Bethell-Collins Interior Design in Avenida del Mediterráneo in San Pedro de Al cántara (www.alisonbethellcollins.com), Your Home Styling in C. Nórdico on the Mijas Road (www.yourhomestyling.com) and Outdoor Concepts at the top of the Boulevard in San Pedro de Alcántara (www.outdoorconcepts.es)

Left This teak dining set from New Life Home is highly durable and has a timeless look suiting any style of home. New Life Home is situated in Avda. de Velázquez in Málaga, or you can buy this product online at www.newlifehome.es

Below The RIU Alu extendable table by Nardi is made from coat ed aluminium with a slatted top available in two sizes. Shown here with Nardi’s multi award-winning fibreglass resin armchair with comfortable fabric cushions that come in different shapes, this chair features a radial pattern of square perforations over its entire surface and a beautiful matt finish. Available from Acoola in Pol. Ind. San Pedro de Alcántara (www.acoola.eu) and De Tropen on the Autovía del Mediterráneo A7, Km. 272, Vélez-Málaga, or buy directly online at www.detropen.es

ELEGANT SHADE SOLUTIONS

The Infina UX parasol has a central pole and a playful canopy with rounded corners that comes in their Full Black and Sand colour versions. Its base has wheels so it can be easily manoeuvred to offer shade wherever necessary. Umbrosa is available from A Cielo Abierto in Centro de Negocios Oasis on Mar bella’s Golden Mile (www.acieloabierto.net), Acoola in Polígono Industrial San Pedro de Alcántara (www.acoola.eu) and Outdoor Concepts at the top of the Boulevard in San Pedro de Alcántara (www.outdoorconcepts.es)

Left The Hartman Sunline parasol in their dark grey version is lightweight yet highly durable, and it is easy to place and erect. Available from De Tropen on the Autovía del Mediterráneo A7, Km. 953, Vélez-Málaga, or buy directly online at www.detropen.es

Below Markilux offers a tailor-made stylish shade solution for a patio or terrace with this stunning awning. It is easy to install and operate thanks to German engineering, and is built to last. Availa ble exclusively from Arte del Lusso in San Pedro de Alcántara (www.artedellusso.es)

WARMING UP OUR OUTSIDE SPACES

Left The Eclipse Smart-Heat Electric range is both functional and stylish with a dimmable LED light with three different heat settings. It can be mounted in various ways, making it very ver satile. Available from Outdoor Concepts in San Pedro de Al cántara (www.outdoorconcepts.es)

Below Left The EscoSmart Base is a multi-functional coffee table and fire pit combined. It features a round AB8 ethanol burner for clean burning and a choice of natural oiled teak or Fluid concrete as the surround. Available from Outdoor Con cepts at the top of the Boulevard in San Pedro de Alcántara (www.outdoorconcepts.es) and Acoola in Pol. Ind. San Pedro de Alcántara (www.acoola.eu)

Below The Dome by Heatsail serves as a lamp as well as a heater, with two different heat settings. It comes with FAR infra red technology and a remote control to vary the light intensity. It can be moved thanks to its functional wheels, and a built-in Bluetooth speaker system is optional. Available from Acoola in Polígono Industrial San Pedro de Alcántara (www.acoola.eu) and A Cielo Abierto in Centro de Negocios Oasis on Marbella’s Golden Mile (www.acieloabierto.net)

The new Pebble Beach collection, shown here in their mint colour version, is woven and made from 100 per cent polypropylene. It comes in four other mut ed colour palettes that create a rich and welcoming space, and it is also a beautiful addition for inside the home. Limited Edition is available from Ali son Bethell-Collins Interior Design in Avda. del Mediterráneo, San Pedro de Alcántara, (www.alisonbethellcollins.com) and Acoola in Pol. Ind. San Pedro de Alcántara (www.acoola.eu)

Nanimarquina’s Re-Rug collection originated when the company decid ed to use leftover wool accumulat ed by its suppliers. Following a great deal of research, they recovered the wool to create a new yarn that they could weave – thereby reducing both wastage of natural materials and CO2 emissions. The hallmark of this collec tion is a determination to preserve the irregularity and tonal richness of the leftover wool, resulting in a unique and vibrant marbling effect for each rug Nanimarquina is available through Acoola in Pol. Ind. San Pedro de Al cántara (www.acoola.eu)

The Melya outdoor rug by Lafuma is 100 per cent polypropylene and available in two sizes, and it comes with a pattern or in solid colour. Made from OEKO-TEX 100 fabric, and shown here with their Sphinx pop-up chair, it is very easy to maintain and clean. Both products are available from De Tropen on the Autovía del Mediterráneo A7, Km. 953, Vélez-Málaga, or buy directly online at www.detropen.es

SPECIALIST SUPPLIERS OF SUSTAINABLE BAMBOO FURNITURE

INTERVIEW WITH NIELS HJORTH – OWNER OF NORTHBYNORTH

Where and when was NorthbyNorth founded?

Design and production started in Vietnam back in 2008. In 2017 we decided to brand the product line under our own name, NorthbyNorth.

Can you tell us more about your products and their sustainability?

The manufacture of our bamboo furniture is 100 per cent organic. No dan gerous substances, chemicals, pesticides or fertilisers are used in its produc tion. Bamboo is a great green option: it’s fast-growing, flexible and capable of recycling large amounts of CO2. It is, quite simply, the most durable and promising test design material of the future.

All of our modern Danish-designed furniture exudes a relaxed boho feel, the key to creating a welcoming environment. Our furniture lines are affordable, comfortable and durable, with the added benefit of being easy to move and maintain.

When purchasing bamboo furniture, what should we look for?

First of all, quality – the right type of bamboo. Many furniture manufacturers use bamboo that is not pre-treated, which significantly reduces the quality and durability of the product. There are also more than 200 different species of bamboo and not all are suitable for furniture production.

If the wrong type of bamboo is used in furniture production, the result will be that the furniture will not be as durable. For example, you could be left with a sofa that cannot adequately support the weight of two adult people weigh ing over 100 kilograms. Whereas, if the right type of bamboo is used, you will have an extremely sturdy bamboo sofa.

Both the type and the pre-treatment of bamboo are crucial in the produc tion of a bamboo sofa. If the sugar is not extracted from the bamboo, it will attract insects to crawl into it and start eating the bamboo from within, significantly weakening it.

The second key consideration is design and comfort. When you look at bam boo sofas online, they may look very similar, but they are definitely not. Many of the cheaper products on the market are designed as simply as possible (after all, costs must be kept down in order for you to acquire a very cheap sofa). In other words, when a bamboo sofa is made with a simply designed straight back (like a classic wooden chair) it is not going to be very comfort able.

The back on a bamboo sofa should be slanted. This is not something you immediately see in pictures but it must be set up like that for you to achieve the right comfort, which is to be expected from bamboo patio furniture.

In addition, many manufacturers use visible screws to assemble bamboo fur

niture, and the finish resembles the type of bamboo furniture that was avail able in the 1980s. How your bamboo sofa is assembled matters a lot: visible screws do not look attractive and these types of joints do not last as long. This means that you will end up with a bamboo sofa that quickly becomes unstable.

At NorthbyNorth, this type of finish does not fit in with our Scandinavian style and the standard of our furniture collections. Our furniture is created with an emphasis on attention to detail and high quality. All of our bamboo is pre-treated so it can last for many years to come with proper maintenance. All of our furniture collections are made using high-calibre bamboo which is not only sustainable but also provides the furniture with an exclusive design concept.

Does the furniture come assembled?

Not all products. Many of our furniture items come “flat packed”, to leave as small a footprint on the environment as possible. The furniture is very easy to assemble and it has all been test-assembled during production. The Mijas sofa, for example, comes in four parts and the assembly instructions guide you through the process.

What other services do you offer?

We offer tailor-made options for bamboo-designed furniture in large volumes if required. Clients can shop online, and we ship orders five days a week from our warehouses in Denmark and Spain, with delivery in Spain taking three or four weekdays. Also, we will be opening a new showroom in Fuengirola in January, making it even easier for clients to be able to see our products.

NorthbyNorth

Santa Rosa 19, Mijas Tel. (+34) 623 236 635 niels@northbynorth.com www.northbynorth.es

DESIGNING YOUR LIVING ROOM THIS WINTER

Winter is here and Christmas is just around the corner, which means a gradual retreat to living rooms to entertain guests in the comfort of our indoors or to enjoy quiet cosy evenings on the sofa reading a good book or relaxing in front of the TV.

The trend for low, deep, chunky sofas has taken the market by storm, allowing you to lounge more casually and inviting you to put your feet up on the sofa. Modular seating has also become increasingly popular, offering multiple ways to arrange seating in the available living space. Pouffes and ottomans are always handy for adding extra seating when unexpected guests come by and they can also dou ble-up as side tables when necessary.

Your living room should be uncluttered, so ensure that people can walk around freely without banging into furniture. Maintaining the room visually organised re quires some thought, and making sure your furniture doesn’t drown-out the space is a key factor. An oversized sofa or coffee table can get all the proportions and composition wrong, jarring the overall harmony of the room. If space is limited, ta bles with built-in shelving below could be a real help to keep surfaces clear, and you should also avoid large patterns on your furniture’s upholstery that can make the room look overly “busy”.

When designing your living room, make it reflect your own style and focus on com fort so that everyone who enters feels immediately relaxed. Adding textural ele ments such as a rug, a couple of throws and some large cushions can be a simple and convenient way to make the room feel instantly more inviting.

Left The Mayfair sofa by Arketipo has an adjustable back rest for exceptional comfort. When the backrest is placed upright its unilateral design and extraordinary stitching on the cushioning is highlighted. Their Juno armchair, shown here in an alluring blue and grey colour combination, of fers soft, padded seating juxtaposed with the industrial metal legs. Their family of variously-shaped Douglas side tables offers an interesting yet versatile complement to this seating area. Arketipo is available from Alison Bethell-Col lins Interior Design in Avda. del Mediterráneo, San Pedro de Alcántara (www.alisonbethellcollins.com) and Ambience Home Design in Centro Comercial La Poveda in Marbella (www.ambiencehomedesign.com)

Below Designed by Rodolfo Dordoni, Twiggy is the new family of seating by Minotti that manifests itself in various ways, always with great emphasis on Minotti’s sartorial sophistication. The family was originally just one armchair, available in small, large and deep sizes, but now the col lection includes a bench, sofa and chaise longue, offering even more versatility in terms of design configuration with different finishes and upholstery options, all embellished with refined stitching (www.minotti.com)

Left The new Wulff armchair and pouffe set by &Tradition is shown here in their luxuriously soft, honey sheepskin uphol stery, with oiled walnut feet and armchair armrests, giving a nod to handcrafted 1930s style. It is featured here with &Tradi tion’s Lato side table and Flowerpot table lamp in red brown (www.andtradition.com)

Below Left The new N701 modular sofa by Ethnicraft comes in an array of colours and in standard fabric or eco fabric with recycled cotton, as well as aniline leather upholstery. It is shown here with their Barrow pouffe in a copper colourway. Ethnicraft is available through Siesta Interior Design in C. Pla za in Nueva Andalucía (www.siestainteriordesign.com), and Acoola in Pol. Ind. San Pedro de Alcántara (www.acoola.eu)

Below The distinctive Duardo sofa by Eichholtz adds a luxu rious contemporary look with a stunning brushed brass finish base and comfortable seating – shown here in their Canberra Sand version. Available directly from the Eichholtz Monobrand showroom, situated in Centro Comercial Azalea in Nueva An dalucía (www.idhouseonline.com), and also through The Art in the Marbella Club (www.theart-interiordesign.com)

Opposite Page The Stone sofa by Enne sets out to offer peace and elegance with its smooth yet clean lines and slender legs. Its contemporary design makes it ideal for a modern-style liv ing room. It is shown here with Enne’s Vega armchair, which offers low seating and features a wrap-around backrest on three elegant legs that balance the chair perfectly. The Majlis by Monika Woodley, situated in CC La Poveda on Marbella’s Golden Mile, is an exclusive retailer of Enne (www.themajlis.es)

Left The Domino.18 sofa by Montis was created like building blocks so that they can be arranged easily however you desire, offering a playful yet highly practical way to design your living space (www.montis.nl).

Below The Joe collection by Verzelloni comes in a wide range of fabrics and five leather choic es. This varied modular range is offered in many sizes, with both back and armrest options, so mixing and matching makes it easy to create the perfect look for your living space. Verzelloni is available through GC Studio in CC Camoján Corner in Marbella (www.gc-studio.es).

The Modergen modular sofa from Trus sardi is available in either fabric or fine leather. It creates a scenario for conviv iality at home, and features Trussardi’s “Chain Stitch”, which is a precious leath er insert on the back cushions, armrests, ottomans and peninsula seats. Mo dergen can be composed in a number of ways to suit the space of the room. Their Oval armchair has dark chocolate leather details and their Greyhound logo print and go perfectly with their Oval coffee and side tables. Trussardi is available from The Art in the Marbella Club (www.theart-interiordesign.com)

The stunning Eichholtz cream bouclé Sofa Kelly offers sophistication and warmth and is a perfect match for their Bench Bente. The Tortana coffee table has a slim frame with a brushed brass finish, a clear glass tabletop and a lower shelf of beveled mirror glass. All lighting shown here is also from Eichholtz. Available directly from the Eichholtz Monobrand showroom, situat ed in Centro Comercial Azalea in Nue va Andalucía (www.idhouseonline.com), and through The Art in the Marbella Club (www.theart-interiordesign.com)

The stunning Etna collection by Alhambra was inspired by the largest active volcano in the Mediterranean, situated in Sicily. There are 28 designs within the collection that would suit any style of home and are ideal for upholstery due to the durability of the fabric. Alhambra is available from Cortidea on the Mijas Road and in Urb. Marbella Real (www.cortidea.es), Acoo la in Pol. Ind. San Pedro de Al cántara (www.acoola.eu) and Alison Bethell-Collins Interior Design in Avenida del Mediter ráneo, San Pedro de Alcántara (www.alisonbethellcollins.com)

Left The Chiaroscuro collection by Zinc contrasts light and dark, using a bold monochromatic pattern on soft chenille and indul gent velvet. Zinc is available from Ambience Home Design in CC La Poveda in Marbella (www.ambiencehomedesign.com), as well as Alison Bethell-Collins Interior Design in Avda. del Mediterrá neo (www.alisonbethellcollins.com) and Arte del Lusso in Calle Lagasca (www.artedellusso.es), both situated in San Pedro de Alcántara.

Below Rubelli’s Backgammon jacquard velvet in viscose and cot ton features a striking geometric pattern inspired by the famous board game which its name references. The pile of the velvet has been abraded, thus enhancing the pattern – which comes in three colourways. It is shown here with Rubelli’s rose-coloured iridescent Spritz velvet 100 per cent cotton collection. Rubelli is available from the Alison Bethell-Collins Interior Design show room situated in Avenida del Mediterráneo, San Pedro de Alcán tara (www.alisonbethellcollins.com), and Ambience Home Design in CC La Poveda in Marbella (www.ambiencehomedesign.com)

Opposite Page This sofa has been upholstered in Inachi Eucalyp tus by Black Edition – an opulent jacquard velvet with an irregu lar geometric pattern and lustrous sheen. The cushions are cov ered with their Makona fabric depicting exotic bamboo and their Eris Spice textural bouclé. Black Edition is available from Cortidea on the Mijas Road and in Urb. Marbella Real (www.cortidea.es), Alison Bethell-Collins Interior Design in Avda. del Mediterráneo, San Pedro de Alcántara (www.alisonbethellcollins.com) and Am bience Home Design in Centro Comercial La Poveda in Marbella (www.ambiencehomedesign.com)

CURTAIN INSPIRATION

Left Lizzo’s Boreal collection offers different textures that reflect one of nature’s greatest spectacles: the aurora borealis. Lizzo is available from Ambience Home Design in Centro Comercial La Poveda in Mar bella (www.ambiencehomedesign.com), Arte del Lusso in Calle Lagas ca (www.artedellusso.es) and the Alison Bethell-Collins Interior Design showroom in Avda. del Mediterráneo (www.alisonbethellcollins.com), both situated in San Pedro de Alcántara.

Below Left The Espiga Plata collection is the result of a partnership be tween Ybarra & Serret and Coordonné. The geometric design in white and grey tones, from the Toscana collection, makes a subtle design statement. Available from Cortidea on the Mijas Road and in Urban ización Marbella Real (www.cortidea.es) and Ambience Home Design in CC La Poveda in Marbella (www.ambiencehomedesign.com)

Below Itami by Romo is an extensive range inspired by culture and nat ural beauty. Shown here is their contemporary Sakuya collection with a painterly blossom print on a luxurious silk-like textile. Available from Alison Bethell-Collins Interior Design in Avda. del Mediterráneo, San Pe dro de Alcántara (www.alisonbethellcollins.com), Cortidea on the Mijas Road and in Urb. Marbella Real (www.cortidea.es), as well as Arte del Lusso in San Pedro de Alcántara (www.artedellusso.es), Ambience Home Design in CC La Poveda in Marbella (www.ambiencehomedesign.com) and Acoola in Pol. Ind. San Pedro de Alcántara (www.acoola.eu)

TOP TABLE SETTINGS

It is at this time of the year when our tableware attracts the main focus, as the annual festivities encourage us to gather together and eat and drink more than we might usually allow ourselves. Entertaining guests can be a stressful experience, so having tableware that you are proud to showcase will help you feel more at ease and reflect the finer points of your taste and design style to other diners.

It is easy to panic and clutter the table with the likes of vases and can dleholders. Even though they are attractive additions for any table setting, keeping the table looking simple and elegant without too many objects can be highly effective – making the whole dining experience a more pleasura ble one.

There will always be a place for formal table settings, but latest trends have veered towards a playful approach, mixing and matching colours, plates and glasses for a more artistic and casual look. Mixing old and new is also an excellent way to add interest to the table. For example, placing some vintage champagne glasses with contemporary plateware can achieve a wonderful combination.

Enjoying meals together with friends and family is where memories are made, so invest wisely in your tableware and it will stand the test of time and help make these cherished moments even more special.

Opposite Page The exclusive Jardin d’Eden collection of luxurious and elegant tableware was created by the finest silversmiths. Designed by Marcel Wanders, the range comprises utensils, serving plates and bowls, carafes, candelabras and much more (www.marcelwanders.com)

This fantasy-filled tableware collec tion, designed by Haas Brothers for L’Objet, transports you to a whimsi cal world of handcrafted earthen ware. The range is so unique that it is considered to be a collectible, with a wide range of interesting el ements making up the collection (www.l-objet.com)

Left Georg Jensen’s iconic Koppel Pitcher has been given a col ourful new life in a smooth matte finish. The colour palette is taken from designer Henning Koppel’s original sketches, which included his favourite colours, and this version respectfully pays homage to Koppel’s original 1950s design (www.georgjensen.com)

Below Left Designed by Arno Jacobsen for Stelton, this stunning serveware is an ideal set for Christmas festivities when entertaining guests. Available from the Escandi Design showroom on the Mijas Road or you can buy directly online at www.escandidesign.com

Below The steel Barknest by Alessi comes in various versions. As the name suggests, the design of this bowl was inspired by tree bark celebrating the beauty of nature (www.alessi.com)

Opposite Page The Grand Cru Smoke by Rosendahl is made from high-quality mouth-blown glass, and is surprisingly light for easy pouring. The grooved design plays with the light and has a pati nated steel band for an extra luxurious touch. It can be washed in the dishwasher at a temperature of up to 55 degrees and retains its beautiful shine for years to come. Available from the Escandi Design showroom on the Mijas Road or you can buy directly online at www.escandidesign.com

This rustic-look tableware by Sthål is sustainable and highly-durable. Each piece is handmade with uneven edges for a casual table setting in earthy tones. Available from the Avoi showroom in La Mairena, or you can buy online at www.avoi.eu.

Danish tableware company Specktrum offers rich traditional craftsmanship and unique products that add an exquisite design touch to any home, and also make wonderful gifts (www.specktrum.dk)

Opposite Page Top Left Hay’s sculptural W&S Chamber vase was inspired by the space where digital and physical forms meet, serving as a piece of art. The 3D models are first developed in the designers’ studio and then they are 3D-printed and moulded in porcelain and stoneware at a ceramics fac tory. Hay is available from Acoola in Pol. Ind. San Pedro de Alcántara (www.acoola.eu) Top Right Classic style meets futuristic avant-garde design with Jonathan Adler’s graphic Versailles Maze vase collection. Jonathan Adler is available through Siesta Interior Design in Centro Plaza in Nueva Andalucía (www.siestainteriordesign.com) Bottom Right The design of the Kubus Bowl by Mogens Lassen was inspired by the Bauhaus school, and it features both excellent design and solid craftsmanship. The bowl serves as a decorative and practical item all year round, holding everything from tasty treats to foliage (www.bylassen.com) Bottom Left The simple yet sophisticated Ernst glass vase was designed by creator and designer Ernst Kirchsteiger. Available from the Avoi showroom in La Mairena, or you can buy online at www.avoi.eu

DIVINE DINING THIS WINTER

Gathering loved ones together around a table and enjoying good home made food is one of life’s simple pleasures, and it has been for centuries. The importance of sharing mealtimes with friends and family is height ened over the festive period, which means the dining area might need to step-up to the mark so it can take full advantage of the increased attention it receives, and create beautiful new memories. Whether you prefer your dining area to be casual and rustic or aim to create a more formal setting, ensuring that the dining table can with stand the wear and tear of heavy earthenware, hot dishes and the odd wine spill are key considerations when investing in this area. Making sure that your dining chairs are not only comfortable but are also the cor rect height, with adequate legroom beneath, is another important factor, and the chairs should be well-spaced around the table to allow enough elbow room for diners to eat without banging into each other.

The popular trend for natural wood continues apace, and for good rea son. Wood is durable and weathers well under testing conditions. Even a few knocks to the surface adds character and doesn’t diminish the nat ural beauty of its origins.

Dine at home in style this winter and become inspired with these ideas…

Opposite Page Designed by the Italian design studio e-ggs, Bolia’s sophisticated Peyote dining table, with its leaf-shaped base, is made from moulded veneer, MDF and plywood for stability and strength. Shown here with their minimalist Tune stackable dining chairs. Bolia is available from Your Home Styl ing on the Mijas Road (www.yourhomestyling.com) and through Siesta Interior Design in CC Plaza in Nueva Andalucía (www.siestainteriordesign.com)

Opposite Page Top Left The quirky Illo table by Miniforms has a fun and contemporary design and comes in a wide range of tabletop finishes. Miniforms is available through Mandragora Deco ración in Urb. La Cancela de la Quinta on the Ctra. de Ronda (www.mandragoradecoracion.com)

Top Right This teak dining set by Sybartum offers an organic look, ideal for a Mediterranean-style home. Casual boho-chic is timeless and natural wood ages beautifully, adding character over the years. The Sybartum showroom is situated on the Mijas Road or you can buy their products online at www.sybartum.com

Bottom This dining area set, available from New Life Home, combines natural and industrial mate rials to offer a striking contrast that fits into most room styles. The table, made from teak wood with a black metallic base, dining chairs featuring black string-woven backrests and a teak base and the console and bench all come together to provide an overall well-coordinated look. New Life Home is situated in Avenida de Velázquez in Málaga, or you can buy these products online at www.newlifehome.es

This Page The Bolzano circular dining table with a marble-look tabletop and brass cylindrical base by House Nordic offers a touch of glamour and looks stunning with these elegant dining chairs and their slender brass legs. House Nordic is avail able from Your Home Styling situated on the Mijas Road (www.yourhomestyling.com), and Acoola in Pol. Ind. San Pedro de Alcántara (www.acoola.eu)

The iconic Skorpio table by Cattelan Italia keeps evolving and now has as many as eight different models in its portfolio, rang ing in shape and materials. Inspired by geometry and origa mi, the design is a real eye-catcher and pairs beautifully with their timeless and refined Tosca dining chair, which combines ergonomics with comfort. Cattelan Italia is available through Alison Bethell-Collins Interior Design in Avda. del Mediterráneo, San Pedro de Alcántara (www.alisonbethellcollins.com), Acoola in Pol. Ind. San Pedro de Alcántara (www.acoola.eu) and GC Studio in CC Camoján Corner in Marbella (www.gc-studio.es)

WELCOME TO RUGS

Now we are officially into the winter months, some warmth underfoot is always comforting – instantly adding cosiness and welcoming you into a living space.

If you have adopted a minimalist décor style, a simple rug can soften the stark ness, making the room feel more inviting and homely. If patterns are not your thing, there are many beautiful textural rugs that offer softness and ambience, without breaking up the room’s colour scheme with a bold print. Alternatively, if your room is crying out for a focal point, a rug could do just the job, drawing the eye and pulling elements of the room together to balance their composition.

Apart from the aesthetic qualities that rugs offer, they also provide acoustic benefits, alleviating echoes and reducing the noise of footsteps – particularly useful if there are people in a room below.

Investing in good quality more than pays off when it comes to rugs, as they can take a lot of battering – depending on where they are placed. So, choose a rug made from high-quality materials and it will last for years to come. Here are some ideas…

Opposite Page The Madhya rug by Designers Guild is available through Alison Bethell-Collins Interior Design in Avda. del Mediterráneo, San Pedro de Alcántara (www.alisonbethellcollins.com), Cortidea on the Mijas Road and in Urb. Marbella Real (www.cortidea.es), Acoola in Pol. Ind. San Pedro de Alcántara (www.acoola.eu) and Arte del Lusso in San Pedro de Alcántara (www.artedellusso.es)

The Archetype collection by Jai pur Rugs is made from wool and viscose, can be fully-customisable and is available for purchase world wide. Archetype was created in col laboration with Abin Chaudhuri, the main architect from the highly-re garded Kolkata-based Abin Design Studio. The design draws inspiration from architecture that originates in different periods in time, from an cient, vintage and Brutalist to mod ern-day (www.jaipurrugs.com).

Left The Wow collection by Alfombras KP can be manufactured as a carpet or as a made-to-measure rug. It uses a level cut loop tufting, giving it a combination of twist (plush) and loop fibres. Alfombras KP is avail able from Alison Bethell-Collins Interior De sign in Avda. del Mediterráneo, San Pedro de Alcántara (www.alisonbethellcollins.com).

Below The Icon collection by JAB Flooring comes in various earthy colours. Made from 100 per cent polyamide, Icon adds a sophis ticated elegance to any living space. JAB is available from Arte del Lusso in San Pedro de Alcántara (www.artedellusso.es), Alison Bethell-Collins Interior Design in Avenida del Mediterráneo, San Pedro de Alcántara (www.alisonbethellcollins.com), and Acoola in Polígono Industrial San Pedro de Alcán tara (www.acoola.eu)

Gan’s new Crochet Trio The Mix col lection was designed by Clara von Zweigbergk to feature a creative graphic design in crochet. There are three other variations to this collection of singular oval-shaped crocheted rugs or, as shown here, with all three woven together. Gan is available through Siesta Interior De sign in C. Plaza in Nueva Andalucía (www.siestainteriordesign.com) and Acoola in Pol. Ind. San Pedro de Al cántara (www.acoola.eu)

The Edit plastic rug from the sustainably-focused Swedish carpet company Pappelina, shown here in their brick colour version, comes in a wide variety of sizes and can be used both indoors and outdoors. Pappelina is available from the Avoi showroom in La Mairena, or you can buy online at www.avoi.eu

At Milan Fashion Week, cctapis and P.A.M. (the Australian streetwear clothing brand Perks & Mini) collaborated to create the new Floordrobe collection blurring the boundaries between fashion and home décor. The playful collection features a strong graphic aesthetic, celebrating guilty pleasures via the act of undressing and furnishing your home through disorder. The collection comprises five handtufted rugs produced by Indian artisans (www.cc-tapis.com)

WHERE STUNNING AVANT-GARDE DESIGN MEETS ANDALUCIAN STYLE

Villa San Diego is a newly built house in a privileged Sotogrande location that offers superb views to the Strait of Gibraltar. It features a classic Andalu cian architectural style highlighted by wide, white walls with glass panes that frame the sea views and enhance their beauty. According to architect Alejandro Giménez, the owners live in northern Europe and wanted a summer house to enjoy the area’s natural light and traditional architecture. They had full confidence in his work as they had references from other houses he had done in the area. The design was conceived on the actual plot, sculpted in stages with the sea, light, garden and landscape as key reference points.

“For villas,” says Alejandro, “we always work with the aim of achieving a clear relationship between the exterior and interior spaces. Focusing on this as pect, we play with the volumes that connect the outdoors to the indoors,

as well as the large windows that link terraces, gardens and patios with the inside areas of the house. We make a special effort to highlight the views by introducing southern Spain’s natural light into all spaces of the house.”

With its high, sloping ceilings, the villa’s spacious living room takes full ad vantage of the light and traditional Andalucian architecture which, with its thick walls and cross ventilation, ensures a pleasant temperature during the summer months.

At the heart of the house is the swimming pool. Part-pool and part-fountain, it is linked to the house by a shared wall and a cascading curtain of water that can also be viewed from inside the home.

The lighting is indirect and gradual, and set up to enhance the architecture rather than for pure technical purposes. To that end, the lights are embed ded into the walls, with their origins hidden from view.

Three natural materials have been combined, wood, clay and whitewashed walls, all with the intention of creating diverse contrasts and harmoniously bringing together the traditional and the modern. “It’s a matter of resolving everything with this simple palette of colours,” explains Alejandro. Some of the furniture (the same wood as the carpentry) has been made–to-measure, while other items such as the fireplace have been designed using the same Silestone as the kitchen.

The textures of the interior walls have been created by a manual scratching method, notes Alejandro, “in a simulation of popular architecture”. Also, lime has been applied both to the walls and the inside of the pool to give the water a special colour.

Alejandro Giménez Architects

Calle Antero 37, Estepona Tel. (+34) 652 591 405 estudio@alejandrogimenez.net www.alejandrogimenez.net

IDEAS FOR YOUR WALLS

THIS WINTER

The wallpaper industry has embraced increasingly exciting trends in recent years, with leading brands launching new materials and finishes to further enhance the visual aesthetics of our walls. During the winter months, warm ing up a wall with some earthy rich tones can make a huge difference to the overall look of the space, and immediately ensure the room feels more inviting and cosier.

Entering into the world of wallpapers can be a minefield, as prices range hugely depending on the brand as well as the material used. If you are unsure of what to apply on your wall, it is safer to opt for a good-quality wallpaper or covering with an understated design that you won’t easily become bored with, and which will therefore stand the test of time. On the other hand, if you have a very large space, a statement wallpaper could be exactly what the space is crying out for, creating a major focal point. Here are some ideas from the latest collections…

a tranquil Far Eastern de piction of nature. Volare is from the luxury Italian wallcovering company’s 2022

Opposite Page The Volare by Wall&Decò comes in two rich colourways,

Collection. Wall&Decò is available from Ambience Home Design situated in

in Marbella (www.ambiencehomedesign.com).

Above The Iconic Coni Fashion Week collection by Casadeco represents the sophistication of the fifties and sixties. The design celebrates the extraordinary wardrobes of ladies of the time in a beautiful and eye-catching digital print. Casadeco is available from Ambience Home Design in CC La Poveda in Marbella (www.ambiencehomedesign.com) and Alison Bethell-Collins Interior Design in Avda. del Mediterráneo, San Pedro de Alcántara (www.alisonbethellcollins.com).

Opposite Page The new Pyrite collection by Casamance reproduces the emblematic pattern of Tessela on a laminated pol yester background. The beautiful metallic or golden shards add a lustrous look to walls and a luxurious feel to living spaces. Casamance is available from Cortidea, situated on the Mijas Road and in Urbanización Marbella Real (www.cortidea.es), Arte del Lusso in Calle Lagasca, San Pedro de Alcántara (www.artedellusso.es), GC Studio in Centro Comercial Camoján Corner in Marbella (www.gc-studio.es) and Alison Bethell-Collins Interior Design in Avenida del Mediterráneo, San Pedro de Alcántara (www.alisonbethellcollins.com)

Left Les Thermes from Arte, shown here in their Mosaico version, is a non-woven wallcovering featuring eye-catching metallic accents. Arte is available from Alison Bethell-Collins Interior Design in Avda. del Med iterráneo in San Pedro de Alcántara (www.alisonbethellcollins.com), Mandragora Decoración in Urb. La Cancela de la Quinta on the Ctra. de Ronda (www.mandragoradecoracion.com), Arte del Lusso in Calle Lagasca in San Pedro de Alcántara (www.artedellusso.es) and Acoola in Pol. Ind. San Pedro de Alcántara (www.acoola.eu)

Below Left The Notte di Carnevale collection by Tecnografica can be customised to suit the size of the space available. This collection is eye-catchingly original – bringing a room to life and perfect for a statement wall (www.tecnografica.net)

Below The Wool collection by Spaghetti Wall is a striped textile-effect wallpaper. The beautiful warm tones and texture of this collection add a cosy feel to any living space (www.spaghettiwall.it)

Left The Basketweave collection, shown here in the Stoneware colourway, is from Mark Alexander’s new Collage II handcrafted wallcovering range. Its earthy tone creates a sophisticated aes thetic that evokes a subtle mood rather than overpowering the space. Mark Alexander is available from Alison Bethell-Collins In terior Design in Avda. del Mediterráneo, San Pedro de Alcántara (www.alisonbethellcollins.com), and Cortidea on the Mijas Road and in Urb. Marbella Real (www.cortidea.es)

Below The Divina collection on GlamSatin by Glamora was cre ated to offer timeless beauty, capturing the elegance of the Art Deco period with the likes of Francis Scott Fitzgerald’s “The Great Gatsby” and the iconic women of that time. The lumines cent Glam Satin material employs a whimsical narrative on a neutral backdrop of warm earthy tones, adorning graceful bo tanicals to create a wall with an impressive wow factor. Glamora is available from Ambience Home Design in CC La Poveda in Marbella (www.ambiencehomedesign.com)

Opposite Page The new Tabala wallcovering collection by Black Edition is both artistic and tactile, inspired by abstract art in rich earthy tones. Black Edition is available from Alison Bethell-Col lins Interior Design in Avda. del Mediterráneo, San Pedro de Al cántara (www.alisonbethellcollins.com), Ambience Home Design in CC La Poveda in Marbella (www.ambiencehomedesign.com) and Cortidea on the Mijas Road and in Urbanización Marbella Real (www.cortidea.es)

The vibrant new Moire collection by Élitis has a wave-life design that is truly striking. Its luminescence and graded tones shim mer and draw the eye. Available from Alison Bethell-Collins Interior Design in Avenida del Mediterráneo, San Pedro de Alcántara (www.alisonbethellcollins.com), GC Stu dio in Centro Comercial Camoján Corner in Marbella (www.gc-studio.es), Acoola in Polígono Industrial San Pedro de Alcántara (www.acoola.eu), Siesta Interior Design in Centro Comercial Plaza in Nueva Andalucía (www.siestainteriordesign.com), Mandrago ra Decoración in Urbanización La Cancela de la Quinta on the Carretera de Ronda (www.mandragoradecoracion.com) , and Ambience Home Design in CC La Poveda in Marbella (www.ambiencehomedesign.com)

THE STYLISH HOME OFFICE

The home office has gained increasingly significant relevance since the pandemic broke out, with many working people realising that a dedicated workspace in the home plays a more important role than previously thought. Whether you turn an entire room into an office or set aside an area within one of the rooms in your house, an allotted working area helps you to sep arate your work tasks from your personal life – minimising everyday distrac tions when you need to concentrate.

In order to be efficient, you need to be organised and therefore your desk should ideally have built-in drawers so that the work surface is as clutter-free as possible and the likes of pens, stationery and folders are neatly hidden away. Bookshelves are a great addition to any home office for easy-access to files and literature, and they take up little or sometimes no floor space, making the room feel more organised and spacious. Many have found that working from home has actually increased produc tivity as they don’t lose time or suffer the stress of travelling to the office and are immediately on-hand for any home deliveries or emergencies that crop up. Ensuring that your working area is as comfortable and ergonomic as possible for your individual requirements is a strong contributing factor to your productivity, as commercial offices are nearly always set up as “one size fits all”, which may not suit everyone’s way of working. So, make your work space ideal for your own specific needs, and ensure working at home is more pleasurable and more productive.

Opposite Page The Blues office armchair provides an ergonomic seat that is available in either leather or fabric. The enveloping backrest welcomes and supports the individual, and comes as a high or low version. The Blues desk features an elegant formal aesthetic in walnut wood, and the legs of the desk are equipped with drawers covered in leather (www.turri.it)

Left Muuto’s clay-coloured swivel Fiber armchair with a polished aluminium base is perfectly ac companied by their minimalist smoked oak 70/70 table. Available from Acoola in Pol. Ind. San Pedro de Alcántara (www.acoola.eu)

Below The exclusive award-winning Silver office chair by Interstuhl comprises an innovative auto matic return mechanism and offers the ultimate in ergonomic seating. Available from Lijomi in the Marbella Club (www.lijomi.eu)

The Bistrot bookshelf from Henge is made from thick solid wood covered in metal and finished in burnished brass, black burnished brass or steel. It is shown here with their Time table, which is also made from solid wood and burnished brass and has a fluidity of form that is especially eye-catching. Their Sa vanna chairs are made from black wood or olive ash with a leather seat; while the iconic Superb-All Horizontal ceiling light is a showstopper, whimsically hovering above in all its extrava gance. Henge is available from Ambience Home Design in CC La Poveda in Marbella (www.ambiencehomedesign.com)

Above The modular Ubiqua bookcase from Porada has columns that are fixed to the wall or ceiling. It is fully customisable and you can change the composition of the shelves and drawers to suit the space. Porada is availa ble through Acoola in Polígono Industrial San Pedro de Alcántara (www.acoola.eu), Siesta Interior Design in Centro Plaza in Nueva An dalucía (www.siestainteriordesign.com), Am bience Home Design situated in CC La Poveda in Marbella (www.ambiencehomedesign.com) and Alison Bethell-Collins Interior Design in Avda. del Mediterráneo in San Pedro de Al cántara (www.alisonbethellcollins.com)

Right The Blade shelving unit by Modulnova is minimalist yet eye-catching in its aesthetic. Blade is built to last for years and it comes in high-quality materials that are madeto-measure. Modulnova is situated in Avda. Salamanca 12 in San Pedro de Alcántara (www.modulnovamarbella.com)

CONTEMPORARY BATHROOM DESIGN

In the past, the bathroom has often been given the least focus when setting about a home reform, but recently this key area has gained more attention, transforming these usually functional spaces into veritable spas. Undertaking small updates can sometimes make a big difference – simply by switching up faucets, a washbasin or cabinetry, for exam ple. Rain showers are now becoming hugely popular in modern homes, offering a splendidly soft showering experience. For a touch of drama, a standalone bath never fails to impress, especially if it is topped-off with a chandelier looming above. Consider updating your surfaces with some sleek tiles or stone – this can make a staggering difference to the look of the room. If space is limited, shelving instead of floor-standing cabinets could be the solution for you, immediately opening up the space. Take a look at some of these ideas…

Opposite Page Top Left Paral by Inbani was designed by Víctor Carrasco, who created this time less range to define its well-thought-out proportions and emblematic design (www.inbani.com) Top Right Gessi’s Venti20 range captures the essence and uplifting spirit of the “Roaring Twenties”, put ting a contemporary spin on this iconic period. Available through Lijomi, situated in the Marbella Club (www.lijomi.eu) Bottom Apaiser has launched a new range of colours called Australian Palette, inspired by that country’s natural beauty. The range brings the rich tapestry of the Australian land scape into your space so you can create your own bathroom sanctuary in stone (www.apaiser.com)

Above The Haute tile collection is inspired by the well-known Arabescato Vagli marble from northern Italy. Its graphics are characterised by a white background, with grey veining highlight ed by subtle shades of sand giving it a stylish and elegant look. Available from Tiles Estepona in Barriada El Velerín 66 (exit Hospiten).

Left Clou’s Solium II freestanding bathtub has wafer-thin walls and is made of Aluite, which is a smooth composite that has the look and feel of marble. Clou is available from Lijomi in the Marbella Club (www.lijomi.eu).

The Icon series by Geberit comes with a ceramic washbasin that is available in various versions, as well as bathroom furniture in an array of surfaces, including shelving, han dles and cabinetry as well as illumi nated mirrors. Geberit is available from Decorbaño in Pol. Ind. Estepo na (www.decorbagno.com)

SURFACES THAT MAKE A REAL DESIGN STATEMENT

Left The stunning 60cm x 120cm Benasque porcelain tile from Mykonos is non-slip, making it ideal for a bathroom, and it comes in white (as shown here) and grey. Available from Tiles Estepona in Barriada El Velerín 66 (exit Hospiten).

Below The Statuarietto Selected marble collection by Mercado da Pedra exudes a timeless elegance and natural authenticity. It is highly durable and offers an emblematic beauty. Available from Mercado da Pedra in Avda. de Salamanca in San Pedro de Alcántara (www.mercadodapedra.com)

Opposite Page This stunning tile from Wow’s Ensō collection was inspired by the sacred symbol in Zen Buddhism that signifies the circle of togetherness. Wow is available from Decorbaño in Pol. Ind. Estepona (www.decorbagno.com)

KITCHEN DESIGN THAT REFLECTS YOUR STYLE

When designing a kitchen, we all are fully aware that there is a lot to consider. As well as colour, materials, texture combinations, applianc es, cabinetry and the many other elements that are important to the design of an ideal kitchen area, there is also ergonomics. Perhaps you are left-handed and reach easier for utensils to the left, or you are tall so you don’t want to bend down all the time for items that you use on a daily basis for cooking. All of these factors need to be taken into account when designing your kitchen so that the space works for you in the best way possible.

Now we are into the winter months and the kitchen is taking more of a toll due to seasonal festivities, maybe this is a good time to consider what you actually need to update in this key area of your home, both to make it more efficient for you and also – if you have an open-plan kitchen where guests can see where you are producing your gastronomic de lights – to create a space that is reflective of your individual style…

Opposite

are carefully sanded and polished. With generous paint applications, the hard-wearing Bistro surface is long-last ing. Everything featured here is by Ballingslöv, offering high-quality Swedish kitchens at competitive prices as all manufacturing is carried out in Sweden using locally available materials. Ballingslöv is situated in C. Plaza in Nueva Andalucía (www.ballingslov-marbella.se)

The design of Bossa Concrete from Leicht offers a handle-less island block with an integrated seating area. The wood used is their Bossa range in walnut which adds warmth and aesthetic appeal. The carbon grey sideboard provides space for a coffee machine or other essential kitchen utensils. Leicht is available from Decodan Studio in Avda. Juan Carlos I in Estepona and also the Marmorin Design Center on Marbella’s Golden Mile (www.decodanstudio.com)

This stunning minimalist kitchen by Modulnova uses their Fly and Bassa materials. The profiles are exquisite ly slim and precisely measured to fit the homeowner’s exact requirements. Modulnova is situated in Avda. Sala manca 12 in San Pedro de Alcántara (www.modulnovamarbella.com)

Above The Glass range from Arredo 3 offers an airy minimalist and inviting design, ensuring that when you enter the room you feel comfortable. Arredo 3 is available exclusively from Decodan Studio in Avda. Juan Carlos I in Estepona and the Marmorin Design Center on Marbella’s Golden Mile (www.decodanstudio.com)

Left The Bora X Bo has high-quality touch sen sors, multi-level lighting and a screen-operated system similar to a smartphone. The ultra-fast cooking system, and the way it uniformly heats food, makes this oven second-to-none. It has measuring points along the sensor that con stantly detect the temperature of the food. The oven thoroughly cleans and descales itself with hot water, and it is environmentally-friendly with a long service life. You can leave messages for other users – for a quick start-up mode for hol iday guests, for example. Bora is available from Decodan Studio in Avda. Juan Carlos I in Estepo na and the Marmorin Design Center on Marbel la’s Golden Mile (www.decodanstudio.com)

A BEDROOM TO RELAX IN

The bedroom is one of the most private areas of the home. However, this doesn’t mean that this room should be neglected in terms of style and in vestment, as it serves a very important role in our wellbeing. The benefits of a good night’s sleep are receiving increasing attention, with an unrelenting emphasis on healthy living, especially across social media. Good-quality sleep puts you in a more positive mood during the day and increases your productivity, so the bedroom is quite a pivotal area of your home. The bed industry has become a pioneer in recent years, with cutting-edge technology being built into beds to provide added support for areas of your body where you most need it. There are beds that come with remote controls so they can be tilted and moved up and down, and some even have temperature controls… the list goes on. One thing is for sure: investing in a good bed can be life-changing, with some bed companies offering a lifetime guarantee.

We all know that it is important to keep the bedroom as orderly as pos sible because, as the saying goes, “a tidy room equals a tidy mind”. This could not be more pertinent than when you are trying to relax and fall asleep, so invest in good wardrobe and storage solutions. Your bedroom should also make you feel at home, and adding elements such as texture in the form of throws and cushions, as well as personal decorative items, will help make the room feel personal to you. Here is some inspiration…

Opposite Page Bonaldo’s Cuff, available as a double or single bed, has vertical pleats on the padded headboard in leather, while the painted metal feet add an extra luxurious touch. Available in removable fabric and eco-leather, it is shown here with their taller headboard (Cuff Hi), which comes furnished with a convenient storage space and a double-action mechanism that allows it to be raised so it is easier to make the bed and clean around it. Bonaldo is available through Siesta Interior Design in C. Plaza in Nueva Andalucía (www.siestainteriordesign.com)

The Fluttua by Lago is the first suspended bed in the world that seemingly defies the force of gravity, giving the sense that you are floating on air. The discreet single central support, which can be adjusted in height, supports the frame and the innovative HPL base. This design makes cleaning below the bed easy and gives the room a feeling of airiness and space. The engineering and meticulous testing behind the design mean that the bed can be installed on most walls and plasterboard, ensuring the utmost safety. Lago is available through Alison Bethell-Collins Interior Design in Avda. del Mediterráneo, San Pedro de Alcántara (www.alisonbethellcollins.com) and Siesta Interior Design in Centro Plaza in Nueva Andalucía (www.siestainteriordesign.com)

The Sandö bed is Carpe Diem Beds’ most popular classic continental model. It has three unique spring systems, which ensure the bed is superlatively comfortable. The depth of its suspension creates a feeling of weightlessness, and their patented Contour Pocket System ensures each spring adjusts to the shape of your body, resulting in a sleep ing experience specifically tailored for you. Carpe Diem Beds is exclusively available from the Escandi Design showroom or you can buy online (www.escandidesign.com)

The Jensen Signature J6 is one of their most exclusive beds, featuring the company’s original zoned spring system with 16-centimetre Jensen Aloy® 3.0 pocket springs. This is their most advanced and innovative spring system, providing plenty of space for the hips and shoulders to rest as well as lower back support. It comes with folding seams on the sides of the reversible mattress, double-stitching on all corners and a discreet embroidered logo on the lower edge of the bed. The Jensen Aqtive II version, as shown here, has a dual-spring system in both the mattress and the base. It comes with a remote control where you can adjust the head and feet sections of the bed, powered by almost silent electric motors. Jensen is situated in Pol. Ind. Nueva Campana in Nueva Andalucía (www.jensenstore.com)

Aldgate by Molteni was designed to stand on its own, completely autonomous but also compatible with any kind of bedroom furni ture. It has a soft and welcoming aesthetic with round edges and upholstered in beautiful textiles or leather. The bed and the back rest can be positioned at differ ent heights. Molteni is available through Acoola in Pol. Ind. San Pe dro de Alcántara (www.acoola.eu)

DESIGNER STORAGE SOLUTIONS FOR YOUR BEDROOM

Left This exclusive wardrobe from Ballingslöv in a walnut finish has a warm and luxurious look. It comes with optional sliding doors and is made-tomeasure. Ballingslöv is situated in Centro Plaza in Nueva Andalucía (www.ballingslov-marbella.se)

Below This stunning contemporary Quevedo wardrobe system offers an open dressing room with floor-to-ceiling doors. Available exclusively from Todomadera in Calle Monterroso 39 in Este pona (www.todomaderaestepona.com).

DELUXE BED LINEN THIS WINTER

Above The timeless Singolo collection by Mille Notti is a crisp and cool, 100 per cent organic combed cotton per cale with a 230 thread count. It is finished with a ribbon in a frame design and has a zip opening. Exclusively available from Jensen, situated in Pol. Ind. Nueva Campana in Nueva Andalucía (www.jensenstore.com)

Right The organic Cotton Stripe Shirting collection by Ralph Lauren is made from naturally soft, organic cotton and wo ven with a timeless yarn-dyed striped motif. Its premium quality and unmatched comfort are comparable to Ralph Lauren’s finely tailored men’s dress shirt. Ralph Lauren Home is available from The Art in Marbella Club on the Golden Mile (www.theart-interiordesign.com)

PERSONALISED NURTURING OF EXCLUSIVE LUXURY PROJECTS

INTERVIEW WITH LUCIA CASAUS AND ALEXIS GONZÁLEZ – FOUNDERS AND OWNERS OF GC STUDIO

On your first meeting with a new client, what is your general approach?

Before we start we always hold a meeting to get to know each other. This is the moment when we take the opportunity for them to tell us their ideas. We explain how we work, as well as our methodology, and at the same time we try to obtain at this meeting all relevant information related to the client. With this information, which is really valuable, we develop our first ideas and unify concepts, to create a global idea that will nurture the project.

What do you prioritise in your planning and what are the main points to be taken into account before starting work on a building and interior design project?

To begin with, it is very important and of great value to have the project very well-defined – that is, everything related to the choice of materials, avail ability and stock to avoid delays. The more specific the planning, develop ment and execution, the less margin for error and the greater the level of satisfaction.

Why do you think it is important to know certain personal details about your clients when developing projects?

It is a key step and our best tool to achieve success. GC Studio designs spac es to be lived in, so knowing what you do for a living, how you live, whether you have a family or not, and whether you enjoy a more or less active social life is essential in order to optimise the result. For us, knowing your lifestyle is important when designing or decorating a house based on your tastes, per ences and needs, so that you can feel at ease in your home.

We need to start from the premise that each client is different. No two are the same, and for this reason there are no pre-established questions or issues that we can ask them. Depending on their needs or desires, or whether the house is intended to be their habitual residence or a second home, for exam ple, we go down one particular path or another to gather the appropriate information for each project.

How do you tackle a situation when a client is undecided about their design preferences?

In this type of case we try to dispel any doubts in the preliminary stages and offer solutions and options that can be adapted in the best possible way. We try to organise all the ideas that the client has in mind and, in the face of any indecision, show them everything that we believe and know will work.

Do you think it is important to have both an interior design and architect stu dio within the same company? Does offering both services together provide added value?

Definitely. At GC Studio our main concept and working model is to do it this way. It is how our ideas and services are really nurtured. It creates a project more closely aligned to luxury and exclusivity, as we deliver a fully finished and well thought-out product. What we do is ensure we are closely attuned to an experience where energy flows, between exteriors and interiors, thanks to a perfect union between architecture and interior design that eventually provides added value for us as well as for our clients.

What do you believe your clients appreciate the most about working with GC Studio?

Personalised treatment, attention to every detail, finding an immediate solu tion to any inconvenience and resolving doubts... this is what distinguishes us. We treat each project, each house and each room as if it were our own, and that involvement is what is most highly valued because in the end it translates into a process that, far from being heavy or burdensome, becomes easy – and that means clients trust us and our team and they turn to GC Studio whenever they need something.

GC Studio

CC Camoján Corner, Local 9-10, Marbella Tel. (+34) 951 566 961 info@gc-studio.es www.gc-studio.es

MODERN RESTAURANT ARCHITECTURE NESTLED IN NATURE

ARTICLE BY ATLAS GROUP

The iconic Coto restaurant near La Zagaleta has undergone a total renova tion and is open again for business. Perched on the winding Ronda road, this well-loved and renowned bolt-hole is under new ownership. According to head chef and owner Clive Rogers, the brief for the project was to “connect the established Andalucian natural landscape with the inside of the restaurant, blending with nature but to have standout architecture without being an eyesore”. A financial partner of the business is British hedge fund manager and politician Lord Fink. Over a 16-month period, the team used a mix of materials to take inspiration from the natural landscape, while also creating a show-stopper architectural design.

Working with renowned local architect Juan Salvador Shvartzberg, and con structed by Atlas Group, the build began to take shape. The core element of the work is a metal structure to give stability to the remaining structure of El Coto Inn, which was largely demolished for the new build. As a peculiarity, the exterior cladding of the property is made from imitation wood composite staves and the carpentry comprises special wood for exteriors with large windows, giving the property its eye-catching architectural design.

Inside Coto, the interiors also heavily use wood. The floor is an Italian wooden platform, mixing a classical design called quadrotta and modern oak de sign slats. The walls of the restaurant are covered with wood panels and the bar and bathroom countertops are made of large format porcelain. The contemporary architecture is combined with eclectic and luxurious interior design, and the impressive kitchen is a complete custom design from Pilsa. True to Clive Roger’s brief, the property has ample wraparound terraces with views down the valley to the Mediterranean. Shaded by surrounding cork trees, the mix of materials blends harmoniously with the surrounding nature. Water features and carefully designed garden features, shading and archi tectural features are integrated into the outside areas.

Atlas Group

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

TRAVEL

HEALTH

HACIENDA DEL CONDE

NATURE-ORIENTATED WINTER ESCAPE TO THE CANARY ISLANDS

Located in an idyllic natural setting in Tenerife, Hacienda del Conde is the only hotel in Spain that forms part of The Meliá Collection. This select collec tion was created to showcase establishments in the hotel group’s portfolio that offer guests an unmistakable personality – whether it is for their iconic setting or their historical significance.

The five-star, “adults-only” Hacienda del Conde ticks both boxes: it is lo cated in the Canary island’s rustic north-eastern Isla Baja area, bordering a protected nature park, and was formerly a farm ranch dating to the mid 18th century. Subsequently, it was transformed into a modern hotel with 117 luxury suites, its own market garden, a golf course designed by Severiano Balles teros, a croquet lawn, a spa and wellness centre and, most recently, a new haute cuisine restaurant, the Salazar.

Each of its suites offers an elegant interior design, distributed in different buildings and at varying heights, reminiscent of a typical village featur ing architecture that represents the valley’s traditional manor houses, with white-washed walls and earth tones enriched by coffered ceilings in stone and wood.

The farm was once the base of the area’s agricultural wealth, home to fields of sugar cane, grape vines and bananas. Today it remains a placidly natu ral destination offering guests spaces that help stimulate their mental and spiritual connections, with wellness activities, water rituals and body treat ments designed to pamper the senses.

In the words of general manager María Bohorquez, “It is an Eden of paths and landscapes where you can enjoy a sanctuary of relaxation and enjoy

ment facing the sea. We invite you to experience an exceptional stay and explore the local culture, gastronomy, people and nature.”

As for gastronomy, the Salazar, El Pandano Pool Bar, La Tasca and Buenavis ta restaurants are committed to “Kilometre Zero” products and healthy dish es, as well as recipes that incorporate flavours from around the world. The new Salazar restaurant reinterprets classic recipes from an avant-garde perspective, prepared with the finest local ingredients and offering exquisite signature dishes.

Guests have two options to care for both body and mind: the Yhi Spa, with its eight cabins and hydrotherapy facilities, including a complete water cir cuit, dynamic heated pool, Turkish bath, bithermal showers, ice fountains, footbath and relaxation area; and the “Signature Wellness Program 360 de

signed by SUDA Experience”, which features innovative sessions and training activities.

For outdoor enthusiasts, the hotel offers cycling friendly activities, hiking trails, boat trips and horseback riding, as well as Buenavista Golf, a challenging 18hole course that overlooks the ocean with a picturesque mountain backdrop and has special green fees for clients.

www.meliahotelsinternational.com

BUGATTI W16 MISTRAL NEW CHAPTER IN THE LEGENDARY ROADSTER STORY

For Bugatti, the 1934 Type 57 Roadster Grand Raid has always represented the pinnacle of the marquee’s elegant design. Currently on display at the Louwman Museum in Den Haag, the iconic model is fondly remembered for its dual aerodynamic headrests, flowing backwards into the bodywork, its finish in duo-tone black and yellow livery, and a cut down V-shaped windscreen. In short, as Bugatti describes it, “effortlessly sophisticated with an understated sportiness”.

What was not known back in 1934 was that the Grand Raid would provide the perfect inspiration for another watershed moment in the venerable Bugatti story. Nine decades later, it has become the “muse” for the W16 Mistral.

“For the final roadgoing appearance of Bugatti’s legendary W16 engine,” explains Bugatti Rimac CEO Mate Rimac, “we knew we had to create a roadster. Well over 40 per cent of all Bugatti vehicles ever created have been open-top in design, establishing a long lineage of performance icons that –to this day – are revered the world over.

“In the Chiron1 era there had, to-date, been no roadster, so the introduction of W16 Mistral continues this legacy, driven by enormous demand from our clients for an all-new way to experience the mighty performance of our iconic engine. The W16 Mistral opens the next chapter in the Bugatti roadster story, inspired by over a century of open-top legends.”

Built around the definitive 1,600 PS incarnation of the W16 engine, which was first used in the Chiron Super Sport 300+2, the W16 Mistral’s design and engineering is completely bespoke. Rather than being simply cut off above the A-pillars to make way for the new open-top design, the existing monocoque has been re-engineered and reshaped to create a more rounded silhouette without compromising performance.

“We know the W16 Mistral will always have significance in the story of Bugatti,” says Bugatti design director Achim Anscheidt, “marking the last time that

perhaps the greatest ever automotive powertrain is used in a road-going production car. We, as a design team, felt enormous pressure to deliver styling that immediately conveyed this landmark moment, drawing inspiration from some of the most beautiful roadsters in Bugatti history.”

The W16 Mistral debuts in timeless colours inspired by the Bugatti Type 57 Roadster Grand Raid: a warm black with hints of truffle brown and subtle yellow accents throughout. It also captures the essence of the Grand Raid’s V-shaped windscreen, curved just enough to create the rounded visor design without distorting the driver’s vision.

When Bugatti’s last roadster, the Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport Vitesse, set a world speed record of 408.84 km/h (254.04 mph) in 2013, its 8.0-litre quad-turbo W16 had 1,200 PS. The W16 Mistral has 1,600 PS, making use of the same power unit that propelled the Chiron Super Sport 300+ to a world-recordbreaking speed of 490.484 km/h (304.773 mph) in 2019. There can, declares Bugatti, only be one goal in mind: to become the fastest roadster in the world once more.

And the new roadster’s name? For a car as evocative and important as this, says Bugatti, great consideration went into the badge it should wear. “Far more than simply a development of the Chiron, the roadster needed a name associated with freedom, elegance and speed. Inspiration came from the mistral, a powerful wind that blows from the Rhône River valley, through the chic towns of the Côte d’Azur in southern France and into the Mediterranean. And with the engine so central to this roadster’s character, it stands side-byside with this mighty wind: W16 Mistral.”

Only 99 examples of the W16 Mistral will be built, priced at €5 million (net), with deliveries due to begin in 2024. The entire production run of W16 Mistral is already sold out.

CHOW ASIAN KITCHEN

NEW CONTEMPORARY FUSION RESTAURANT IN PUERTO BANÚS

Chow is one of Metro Group’s latest gastronomic hotspots to open along the frontline of Puerto Banús. This ever-growing hospitality empire, with 16 venues already under its belt, never seems to put a foot wrong when it comes to business acumen, always choosing excellent locations and investing wisely in stunning decoration and good-quality service at reasonable prices – and Chow is no exception.

Located close to the famous Sinatra bar at the entrance to the marina, Chow has the privilege of looking out over some of the most exceptional boats in all of the Coast. This particular area of the port has a special buzz, whether it is during the day or at night, which makes Chow’s location such an attractive one. Consequently, it is always a safe bet that there will be a lively atmosphere.

The front of the restaurant is entirely open, creating an airy feel and allowing you to take in the ambience of the street and the beauty of the harbour.

However, the restaurant also extends well back inside, so those who want to be away from the action can enjoy a more tranquil dining experience. The design of the restaurant is contemporary with a nod to traditional Asian decorative style. There is a striking painting of a Geisha girl on the far wall, upside down Japanese umbrellas serving as lampshades suspended from the ceiling, and a black and red colour palette that runs throughout the res taurant.

Chow offers a diverse Asiatic menu that fuses Chinese, Japanese, Thai and Vietnamese cuisine. There is a comprehensive sushi selection, and an inter esting choice of starters ranging from dim sums and sticky pork ribs to soft shell crab salad, but it is highly recommended to plump for the Chow Signa ture Sharing Platter, which is a great way to sample the various tasty bitesize offerings they have available on the starter menu, which were all very delicious.

Even though the menu is diverse, it is not overwhelming like some you come across in fusion restaurants. The main course options include ramen, shred ded duck (apparently a favourite amongst regular clients), Thai curry and noodles, as well as the likes of Kung Pao spicy chicken and Asian steamed sea bass, which are plated artistically and are highly flavourful, using fresh and top-quality ingredients.

If you have space for a final course, the dessert menu is relatively small. How ever, each dish is very well thought-out and attractively presented, and –most importantly – delicious and indulgent, although there are also lighter options if you so desire.

As Chow is in the heart of the ritzy Puerto Banús harbour, it is only natural that they have an exotic cocktail menu, expertly mixed in their bar area. There is a wide range of fine wines and champagnes, as well as Asian speciality drinks such as Hibiki Harmony, sake, Yanghe Ocean Blue Baijiu and Yamazaki – among Chinese teas and homemade lemonades.

In summary, Chow delivers on all aspects and has been a hit with locals and tourists alike thanks to its well-considered menu, formidable location and reasonable pricing. The service is excellent, with attentive, knowledgeable staff who are friendly and accommodating to your every need. Highly rec ommended for the next time you visit Puerto Banús!

Chow Asian Kitchen

Open every day from 1pm to 1am Calle Muelle Ribera 14E, Puerto Banús (Marbella) Tel. (+34) 952 334 854 info@chowpuertobanus.com www.chowpuertobanus.com

CREATIVE CULINARY IDEAS FOR THE FESTIVE SEASON

BY CHILI GOURMET CATERING CHEF HELLE BARLEBO

I just love this time of the year, with all the different foods and traditions. It’s a wonderful time for meeting friends and family and enjoying special festive treats and magical Christmas markets. Imagine late evenings in front of the fireplace with a cup of mulled wine and delicious homemade “Æbleskiver” apple pancake balls.

Most countries have their own versions of mulled wine. For example, in Ger many and Austria it’s called glühwein, and is served with strong (80 per cent) Stroh rum. In the Scandinavian countries it’s called gløgg, and that will be my recipe today, served with Spanish almonds and raisins and filled with dark rum.

Mulled Wine – Gløgg

litres)

3 litres red wine

green cardamoms

whole cloves

large cinnamon sticks

dry star anise

large fresh ginger roots

bay leaves

2 decilitres sugar (to taste)

and juice of 1 lemon peel and juice of 1 orange

decilitres water

¼ litre dark rum

grams raisins

grams chopped almonds

Place the raisins into a bowl, pour over the dark rum and leave in the refrig erator overnight. Pour one litre of red wine into a pot. Cut the ginger root into slices, and make juice from the washed orange and lemon and zest from the skin. Place all the ingredients into the pot and add the spices, sugar and water. Place on high heat and let it boil for half an hour. Set the mixture aside and leave it to cool with the lid on until the next day.

Strain the spice mixture into a larger pot, to remove all the spices. Pour the rest of the red wine into the pot and maintain the mulled wine at 80 degrees. You can add extra sugar according to taste. Some like it a little sweeter than the Vikings prefer!

When serving, pour the warm mulled wine into a glass and add a large spoonful of raisins and chopped almonds. For decoration, you can also add a slice of orange and a stick of canella.

I am aware that my recipe produces quite a few litres, but it smells and tastes so delicious it is worth keeping in the fridge in glass bottles for up to three weeks, although I’m sure it will be gone a lot sooner.

Danish Æbleskiver (24 pieces)

This authentic recipe for Danish Æbleskiver, also known as Danish pancake balls, has been around for many generations. They are traditionally served during Christmas, but are a delicious treat any day of the year.

2 tablespoons sugar

3 eggs

1 vanilla stick

250 grams flour

½ teaspoon baking powder or Natron

Touch of salt

4 decilitres buttermilk

100 grams butter and extra for frying

1 red apple, cut into small pieces

Separate the egg whites and yolks in two separate bowls. Whisk the sugar and egg whites until they are fluffy and stiff on your kitchen aid machine fluffy.

Use only the seeds of the vanilla – easily removed with a sharp knife – and mix with the sugar. Add the egg yolks, flour, baking powder and salt and mix well. Melt the butter, and let it cool a little before whisking it slowly into the batter together with the buttermilk. When it is firm, add the whisked egg whites to the batter, slowly by hand so you don’t lose all their fluffiness.

Now you’re ready for the fun part of frying the Æbleskiver. If you don’t already have a special pancake pan, you can find one online or at your local kitchen

store. Heat the pan at medium-high temperature and add a little butter to all the holes, then fill three-quarters with the batter and add a teaspoon of freshly cut apples before frying. When the balls start to become firm and have some colour on the outside, it’s time to flip them upside-down. The easiest way is to use a wooden stick and slide it around from the inside. Turn them regularly, so they obtain an even and light-brown crust all over. Serve the pancakes warm with a traditional touch of powdered sugar on top and you’re sure to win the hearts of your family and guests, especially if you serve them together with the mulled wine (gløgg).

If you feel like some variation and you love cinnamon, you can add half a teaspoon into the cut apples. Alternatively, you can replace the apples with small chocolate bites or strawberry jam.

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

WINE VERSUS CLIMATE

BY CASSIE M @WINEPOSTER

We have been expressing concerns about climate change for quite a while now, and it seems this topic will not disappear from the agenda any time soon as we face more extreme weather conditions. In the world of wine there are many relevant discussions at the moment. To obtain answers covering a broad perspective, I had the great op portunity and honour to meet Jonas Tofterup, Master of Wine, co-owner and winemaker at Bodegas Trenza, and owner and teacher at the Ibe rian Wine Academy in Málaga, for an interview.

With temperatures rising, what would you say is the biggest challenge from a wine-maker’s point of view?

It depends where you grow your grapes, the grape variety you have planted, your ambitions for quality and quantity and water availability, among other factors. Generally speaking, the biggest issue is to obtain well-balanced fruit, achieving a perfect balance between flavour, sugar and acidity.

Do you think the Nordic countries and the UK could be potential wine-growing regions in the future?

The UK for sure, as they are already making outstanding quality wines. Denmark in some cases is just about there, but I think the rest of the Nordic countries are still some decades away. However, if temperatures continue to rise, there will be great potential in all countries if you find the right micro climate, grow an adequate grape and produce a well-suited style for the ripeness of the grapes.

Burgundy in France has been a major centre for fine wines with a high price tag for many years. Could there be a situation in, let’s say 10 years from now, where we simply cannot obtain our wines from certain Bur gundy producers anymore?

I do not think we will risk losing the amazing wines of Burgundy any time soon due to climate change, but perhaps we won’t be able to obtain our favourite wines due to speculation (investing). In some cases this is driving up the price of wines to a level where those of us who understand wine will not be bothered to pay the outrageous prices other people are willing to pay.

What area do you believe could be especially interesting to keep an eye out for in the immediate future, somewhere unexpected?

Personally, I think Okanagan Valley in British Columbia (Canada) will be one of the more interesting regions we will see more of. They make stun ning wines you wouldn’t think would be possible at that latitude. After speaking to Jonas, it seems as though we have a warmer future ahead of us and tough challenges for producers and our wallets, but on the positive side we also have new wine regions to discover.

Vinoteca Barolo

Urb. Doña Lola, Local 23-24 Calahonda (Mijas Costa) info@vinotecabarolo.com www.vinotecabarolo.com

THE BENEFITS OF TEA… AND SMART KNEE MONITORING

MEDICAL MINUTES BY JOHN SCHIESZER

Tea Drinking Associated with a Long Life Tea is one of the most consumed beverages worldwide. Previous research has suggested an association between tea consumption and lower mortali ty risk in populations where green tea is the most common type of tea.

In contrast, published studies in populations where black tea drinking is more common are limited with inconsistent findings. Now, a new prospective study found that drinking black tea may be associated with a lower mortality risk. The risk was lowest among persons drinking two or more cups of tea per day. The findings, which were published in Annals of Internal Medicine, are highly relevant because the study also looked at whether the associations differ by use of common tea additives (milk and sugar), tea temperature, and genetic variants affecting the rate at which people metabolise caffeine.

Researchers from the National Institutes of Health conducted the study to evaluate the associations of tea drinking with death rates using data from the U.K. Biobank, where black tea drinking is common. The U.K. Biobank in cludes data on half a million men and women, aged 40 to 69 years, who completed a baseline questionnaire between 2006 and 2010.

Among these participants, 85 per cent reported regularly drinking tea and 89 per cent reported drinking black tea. Relative to non-tea drinkers, partici pants who reported drinking two or more cups each day had a nine to 13 per cent lower risk for mortality.

The associations were observed regardless of whether participants also drank coffee, or added milk or sugar to their tea, and irrespective of their preferred tea temperature, or genetic variants related to caffeine metabo lism. According to the authors, their findings suggest that tea, even at higher levels of intake, can be part of a healthy diet.

Hold On – I am Getting a Message from My Knee

It is now possible to receive data from your knee about how it is healing. Knee replacements are getting smarter and may improve outcomes thanks to a new joint component that securely tracks and transmits knee motion data.

Physicians are using the data to optimise patient monitoring and recovery. The new component, developed by American scientists, is called The Perso na IQ implantable knee. It includes a 10-year battery and sensors that con stantly capture long-term postoperative data on cadence (steps per min ute) and average walking speed. It also transmits data on a person’s stride length, range of motion, distance travelled and step count.

The data collected by the sensors is transmitted daily to the patient’s Home Base Station and analysed overnight. The information is made available to an individual in a phone app, which organises and displays the data. In ad dition to graphs and charts that display collected data over time, the app includes patient education materials, pre-operative and post-operative ex ercises, and messaging capabilities.

“Physicians can use the collected data to monitor how patients are doing after their knee replacement, as well as for research that will improve future knee replacement procedures,” said orthopaedic surgeon Dr. Yair Kissin, who is with Hackensack University Medical Center in New Jersey. “Patients can also use the app to track their progress since their surgery.”

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

HYPERBARIC OXYGEN

IS IT A THERAPY LOOKING FOR A DISEASE?

BY RACHEL GARROD

Apparently, Michael Jackson once owned a Hyperbaric Oxygen chamber. It is said he slept in it with the aim of “living forever”, although that rumour has since been quashed, and sadly Jackson did not live forever.

The effectiveness of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) as a treatment for many chronic illnesses is currently under scrutiny. Today it is available in Mar bella, where you relax in reclining chairs, listen to chill music and drink herbal tea as your body absorbs additional oxygen and hydrogen.

HBOT consists of the delivery (via individual masks or in a single chamber) of near 100 per cent oxygen pressurised to at least two atmospheres (this compares with mean sea level of one atmosphere and 21 per cent oxygen.) While the Undersea and Hyperbaric Medical Society has for decades ap proved its use in 13 illnesses, including decompression sickness and arterial gas embolisms, others now propose it as a treatment for any number of con ditions including Long COVID and asthma. As a respiratory physiotherapist who specialises in treating people with lung problems, I’m fascinated. During HBOT, more oxygen is dissolved in arterial blood (due to the increased pressure) and this is then absorbed by the cells and tissues of our body. Red blood cells, which carry most of the oxygen when at sea level, are already 98 per cent saturated with oxygen so they have little capacity for additional gas. Hydrogen and nitric oxygen are also amplified in tissues as a result of

HBOT and these gases accelerate wound healing. Several other potentially useful effects of HBOT have been documented: the growth of new blood vessels and stem cells and anti-Inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties. While it is probable that for diabetic ulcers and gangrenous wounds HBOT is an effective treatment there is presently little evidence for its benefit in the numerous other conditions proposed. In fact, some researchers go so far as to say, “HBOT is a therapy looking for a disease” (Gill AL 2004).

HBOT is generally safe but there are risks, such as middle ear injuries, lung collapse and fluid in the lungs and, if the treatment duration is long without regular breaks from the pressurised gas, oxygen toxicity can occur. It can also be expensive: a treatment for chronic illness may require 30-40 sessions so costs can add up.

As for asthma, there is simply insufficient research and, when considering that the increases in oxygen are only present during the treatment and that risks of pulmonary injury are well documented, I will not be recommending it to my patients.

Rachel Garrod (Ph.D. Physiotherapist) rachelgarrod1@gmail.com Tel. (+34) 699 501 190

JAIME HAYÓN

ON SHOW IN VALENCIA

The work of one of Spain’s most celebrated de signers is currently on show in Valencia. “Jaime Hayón: InfinitaMente” opened this autumn as part of the World Design Street Festival “to explore the universe of the multi-faceted creator through ma terials, tools, creative process, inspiration and ref erences”.

The first major retrospective of his work, the exhi bition is free of charge and is open until 16 April next year at the Centre del Carme Cultura Con temporània, a space that has brought together most of the programming for World Design Capital Valencia 2022. Earlier this year Hayón received Spain’s National Design Award.

According to the secretary of culture and sport in the Valencia regional gov ernment, Ximo López Camps, “Jaime applies his personal imagination to everything he does, without distinction between the various areas of action in which he works: from design to art, crafts, interior design and painting. He is a serious and rigorous designer, orderly and methodical, who effectively

and meticulously resolves the questions of function and use of the objects he designs, but he is also a creator who explores the blurred boundary between design and art in pieces in which responding to a function is not at all the main objective.”

The exhibition showcases a selection of Hayón’s most iconic works, both in the fields of illustrations and artistic pieces, as well as products for compa nies. It also includes works that have never been presented in Spain, such as “Masquemask”, an exhibition of seven large tapestry-masks designed for the LODZ Design Museum, and “Mediterranean Digital Baroque”, one of his first exhibitions, plus large format paintings and sculptures.

In addition, visitors can view products and furniture produced over the past 20 years by Hayón Studio, including limited-edition pieces and samples of processes and raw materials. Glass and ceramics, major players in Hayón’s work, are the central focus of two of the rooms, while the central section is dedicated to the creative process behind pieces of furniture, lighting and accessories of a commercial nature.

www.hayonstudio.com

PHOTO COMPETITION SHOWCASES THE BEAUTY OF SUMMER IN SPAIN

Photographers from the Costa del Sol and other parts of Spain spent this past summer capturing moments, memories and landscapes and submitting them to Specsavers Ópticas for their summer photography competition.

Nearly 100 high-quality entries were received, and the competition was judged by professional photographer Oliver Vegas. “The level of the entries has been really high,” he said. “There were a range of very different photo graphs, with surreal yet original framing that I did not expect to find. Each of the participants has shown their originality in terms of what we understand by ‘summer’, going from the best sunset to the countryside, the mountains, the city and an endless number of moments that for many will surely have been unforgettable.”

He shortlisted five entries sent in by Florence Marie José Cardona Ballest er, Patricia Vine, Mundo Torrevieja, Ángel Guadalest and Melissa Royle, and eventually chose Patricia Vine’s image of sunrise over the town of Polop (Al icante) as the overall winner. “My choice has been focused on what each one of them communicates to me, as well as the composition, colour and

originality. As a great majority of countries have suffered high temperatures this year, this photo really stood out, showing the emerging heat of the day, counterbalanced with where the sun is hidden and gives us shade.”

Patricia won a pair of designer sunglasses and a €100 Amazon voucher, which she collected from Specsavers Ópticas in Benidorm. “It was taken from our balcony in La Nucia,” she explained, “looking across to the town of Polop. The scenery changes depending on the time of day and this was taken at sunrise. We have had so much pleasure in enjoying this view, so I was delight ed to be able to capture this moment and share it with you.”

Presenting Patricia Vine with her prize, senior optometrist Silvia Tormo Fer nandez from Specsavers Ópticas in Benidorm said, “We’d like to congratulate Patricia for winning this competition and thank everyone who sent in their entries for the competition. It was wonderful to see so many beautiful images of the Spanish summer.”

Opposite Page: Ángel Guadalest (Left), Melissa Royle (Right)

Page: winning entry by Patricia Vine (Top), Mundo Torrevieja (Bottom Left), Florence Marie José Cardona Ballester (Bottom Right)

TALENTI

IN

BANÚS

Talenti has just opened its first single-brand showroom in Spain, in Marbella’s exclusive Puerto Banús area. This high-end Italian brand specialises in out door spaces, and the stunning new 350 square metre showroom is a feast for everyone to see, feel and experience their latest models and fabrics. Among the more than 200 guests attending the inauguration were the own ers of Talenti’s factory, Federica and Edoardo, Talenti architect and designer Ramón Esteve, and leading local architects and interior designers including

Photos by Julia Roder www.talentimarbella.com

Ismael Mérida, Jana and Ness from Aalto Exclusive Design Studio and Ilze Dombrovska from Eichholtz. Drinks and canapés were provided by BEHER, there was a DJ, and all guests received a goodie bag to take home.

FURNITURE, TEXTILES AND KITCHENS SHOWCASED AT FERIA HÁBITAT VALÈNCIA

Home & Lifestyle Magazine joined thousands of other top industry repre sentatives at this year’s Feria Hábitat València, Spain’s premier exhibition of furniture, textiles and kitchens. Expectations were high for a pacesetting fair, and they were met right from the first day with the launch, in conjunction with the main fair, of the Home Textiles Premium by Textilhogar and Espacio Cocina SICI trade fairs.

The three associated exhibitions provided a showcase of nearly one thou sand exhibiting firms and brands in more than 90,000 square metres. Ac cording to the organisers, this was the largest gathering of these three sec

tors since the 2012 edition of Hábitat. This year’s multi-faceted fair coincided with a diverse and extensive year-long calendar of events marking Valèn cia’s celebrations as World Design Capital. Sustainability was a major theme of the fair, which featured chairs and tables made from recyclable materials, acoustic ceilings comprising recycled plas tic bottles, organic and natural shapes, reusable textiles, and furniture that reinterpreted handcrafted classics of the 20th century.

www.feriahabitatvalencia.com

GLAMOROUS

Luxury stone company Mercado da Pedra held a glamorous cocktail party at their showroom in San Pedro de Alcántara, where they invited representa tives of the design sector to view their new stone range, which is ideal for out door use. Rami el Jamil, who launched the company in the Spanish market on the Costa del Sol and is one of the directors of Mercado da Pedra, greeted the guests, who enjoyed drinks and canapés while perusing the showroom.

The evening was a resounding success and a fabulous opportunity for pro fessionals within the design sector to learn more about Mercado da Pedra’s products, as well as to get to know each other.

www.mercadodapedra.com

Photos by Johnny Gates

PRESENTATION OF SUSTAINABLE REFORESTATION PROJECT

Marbella gastro-bar restaurant Breathe celebrated its fourth anniversary in October by presenting a sustainable reforestation project for developing countries. The event was attended by Cristóbal Garre from Marbella Town Hall, who spoke about the work that had been carried out since the project’s inception.

This pioneering initiative in the Spanish catering industry is part of the global Sustainably Run project led by Marvin Baker. After years of working together, Breathe is now committed to increasing the number of trees planted, and publicising and spreading the word about the project, with the help of its clients and the Marbella community.

Breathe’s managers decided to add a small increase to each table’s bill for this purpose. “This way,” they explained, “customers are paying the amount needed (€1.49) to plant a fruit tree in a developing country, offsetting the environmental impact of their food and helping to alleviate poverty there. This reforestation project is part of the Carbon Free Dining initiative, designed to give restaurants a warranty that demonstrates their passion for the environment and sustainability.” To date, Breathe says it has planted nearly 40,000 trees in the Usambara mountain area in Tanzania.

The project is now highlighted on the Breathe Gift Trees website, which allows each tree to be viewed and geo-located, offering a high level of detail and transparency about the process. There is also the option to contribute to the planting of a few trees as well as countless more in different packages (from €1.49 to €1,490).

Breathe founder and ambassador Aguilene Benicio said the way in which they have incentivised financial support would be expanded. “After four years in the making, we have a large database of customers, so we are going to send them information to involve them on a larger scale in this project. If they in turn share it with others, we can cultivate and grow the planting of more trees. We want to use our marketing expertise to give it a strong motivation and gain more support from all sectors.”

Aguilene Benicio began this journey after meeting Marvin Baker in 2018, when she became “excited about the idea of supporting the planet

ILUX EXPERT INSTALLERS OF ALUMINIUM WINDOWS… AND MORE

ILUX launched themselves into the windows market five years ago as an installation company for aluminium windows, terrace glazing, shutters, awnings and pergolas, working with French aluminium window company K•LINE, Europe’s number one aluminium windows manufacturer, based in Barcelona.

ILUX had many years of experience in the construction sector on the Cos ta del Sol, so they are well-placed to offer solutions to those who want to modernise their home and thus increase its value. Popular additions to a terrace or balcony are glass enclosures that provide homeowners with the flexibility of being able to enjoy their outdoor area all-year-round. Visit their showroom in C/ Revuelta 8, Cancelada, Estepona, where you can see first-hand the quality of the enclosures and minimalist lines of fered by their distributors.

Tel. (+34) 951 194 747 info@iluxwindows.es www.iluxwindows.es

through very concrete actions”. According to Benicio, once they have met their objectives in Tanzania, they will set their next goals in Latin America. “Unfortunately, to think of doing something like this in Europe would multiply the costs by five, but I don’t rule it out.”

Meanwhile, the current strategy is being carried out thanks to the involvement of local farmers who provide their land to plant these trees and in return benefit from their fruits. Papayas, mangoes and moringa, which take about a year to bear fruit, have been harvested.

As an example, Baker says that a typical family of four that contributes to the project receives between 4,000 and 5,000 fruit trees with which to thrive and alleviate hunger in the area. Additional benefits include reducing CO2 emissions, repairing ecosystems, creating food, health and education opportunities, and reducing the carbon footprint.

www.breathetrees.org / www.breathegifttrees.com / www.breathe.life/blog/breathegifttrees

BESPOKE ART FOR INTERIOR DESIGNERS AND HOMEOWNERS

Situated in the prestigious La Alzambra urbanisation, Studio 2 Art & Design is a creative studio inspired by the dream of making the talents of their artists and craftsmen accessible to everyone. The studio has a wide display of artwork to buy “straight off the peg” but their in-house artists are also able to create unique bespoke pieces of artwork to suit individual tastes and requirements, whether you are a private homeowner or an interior designer working on a project.

Interestingly, the studio offers an upcycling service where they can repair, re-paint or add decorative touches to favourite items of furniture, giving them a whole new lease of life. They regularly host creative workshops where guests are encouraged to visit the studio and learn new creative techniques, as well as producing their own pieces of art in a fun and relaxed environment.

Urb. La Alcazaba, Crta. 340 Km. 175, Puerto Banús (Marbella) Tel. (+34) 620 742 546 welcome@studio2artdesign.com www.studio2artdesign.com

EICHHOLTZ MARBELLA

LUXURY HOME COLLECTION FROM PHILIPP PLEIN

High-end furniture company Eich holtz Marbella is unveiling a new lux ury home collection from Philipp Plein in December. Titled “Not Your Parents’ Furniture”, the collection offers “the highest premium materials rich in details of bold colours and strong iconic prints… key ingredients for the most glamourous and unconventional home project”. According to Eichholtz, the aim of the collection is to create a com fortable home where people can “socialise with friends, bond with their pets and unwind alone”. In addition to high-quality materials, it is characterised by products that “perfectly express the brand’s core values, layered with a rebellious charm and playfulness”.

Calle Ana de Austria, CC Azalea, Marbella Tel. (+34) 610 440 722 eichholtz@idhouse.es

AANPAK INNOVATIVE SERVICES FOR HUMAN RESOURCES

AANPAK is an innovative company operating in the field of human resources. Its new way of working covers the complete cycle in terms of people, from the initial search, through evaluation, development and remuneration, and finally to the formal appointment. According to the company, its philosophy can best be summed up as “Dare to change”.

AANPAK offers services that are highlighted by “a profound design of work processes that aims for complete satisfaction among users”. These include: executive search for middle and senior manage ment; consultancy in the design and implementation of remunera tion plans; and individual programs for people in transition process es such as job loss or moving into a new position.

Tel. (+34) 639 351 599 eduardo.quero@aanpak.es www.aanpak.es

GEORGE IZAGUIRRE SPIRITUAL HEALER AND MASSEUR

George Izaguirre is a professional healing therapist and masseur who has worked in some of the most highly-regarded venues along the Costa del Sol, including La Sala by the Beach and Hotel Villa Padierna.

George is now offering his professional services at your home, only with CoolDeals and for a limited time, normally charging €70 but with CoolDeals just €49 – a huge saving of 30 per cent. This fab ulous one-hour therapy session with George consists of a number of different massage techniques such as quiromassage, reflexology, Shiatsu and digipuncture that will leave you feeling wonderfully re laxed physically, mentally and spiritually. Go to www.cooldeals.es to enjoy this promotion (available for a lim ited time only).

DESIGN WEEK MARBELLA SHOWCASE OF LATEST TRENDS AND PRODUCTS

The second edition of Design Week Marbella attracted more than 12,000 visitors, according to the organisers. Both professionals and private individuals were able to discover new trends in design, ar chitecture and construction, and view a range of latest textile prod ucts, furnishings and furniture models.

Participation was also reported to be high, with more than 450 top-level companies and businesses – local, national and inter national – and leading professionals including interior decorators, architects, landscape architects, designers and artists taking part in the fair.

In addition to exhibitions, the fair also organised seminars, work shops, conferences and networking opportunities, as well as live art and artisanal experiences and diverse culinary options for visitors and exhibitors.

www.designweekmarbella.com

SUMMIT IN MARBELLA

Each year members of Marbella’s local community gather to dis cuss issues that have been identified as the most prevalent among international residents. Varying from year to year, these include su icide prevention, the hungry and homeless, jobs and internship op portunities for young people, homes and jobs for Málaga orphans, environmental issues, road safety, and promoting all-year-round business.

For the 2022 United Nationalities of Marbella Summit, on 24 Novem ber, the objective is “to encourage more effective communication by consolidating and promoting existing but impartial collectives that can best aid and protect the interests of international residents and visitors alike”.

Once again this year, the aim is to connect businesses, charities and individuals that are most affected by and interested in the main theme, “to raise awareness, and hopefully support can be gained and suitable alliances formed to best serve mutual objectives…

Each year the necessity to create a way of communicating across the 140-plus nationalities registered in our city has been prevalent, whether it be for an emergency or any other need.”

Participants include representatives of Marbella Town Hall, cham bers of commerce, consulates, media, associations, businesses and charities who help expats to live a successful life on the Costa del Sol.

The 2022 summit is being held at The Harbour Restaurant, Puerto Deportivo Marbella, from 11 am to 12.30pm, with a VIP networking lunch from 1.30 pm (€30 for a two-course meal with wine/water).

As there are limited spaces, reservations need to be made by 14 November, with RSVP to: MiMarbellaRTVM@gmail.com

CLIMBING KILIMANJARO

FOR CHARITY

Laura Roantree raised a total of €3,174 for the Meningitis Research Foundation after successfully climbing Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanza nia as part of a charity hike. Laura, who grew up on the Costa del Sol, also helped raise awareness of this disease, which affects more than 2.5 million people each year. She was sponsored by Specsav ers Ópticas in Fuengirola, who donated €500 at the start of her fundraising campaign.

“I think the fact that I did not know a lot about the charity or men ingitis itself highlights the help that they need in raising awareness and funds,” said Laura. “It was only when I joined the challenge that I was told about the effects meningitis has on families and how se rious it can be.”

Laura and her group of 14 students from universities across Ireland spent six days on the mountain. They walked seven to eight hours every day to reach the peak, 5,895 metres above sea level, and quickly returned to basecamp to minimise the effects of the high altitude.

NEW LAW IN SPAIN RECOGNISES PETS AS SENTIENT BEINGS

ARTICLE BY WELEX LAWYERS & ACCOUNTANTS

A law that came into force in Spain earlier this year recognises dogs and cats as living beings endowed with sentience and no longer considered as chattels. This Spanish law is accompanied by changes in three different laws:

Civil Code, Penal Code and Mortgage Law.

The changes mean that animals cannot be seized, mortgaged, abandoned, mistreated or taken away from one of their owners in the event of separation or divorce.

In the case of a couple divorcing in Spain, a judge may regulate the shared custody of the animals, establishing a regime to cover the expenses of the pet or modifying the conditions of their care. He or she may also establish an equitable division of the care of the animals.

In addition, parents may be prohibited from having visitation when one of them is subject to criminal proceedings for attempting to harm the life, phys ical integrity, liberty, moral integrity or sexual indemnity of the other spouse or children.

Future changes to pet law envisage that animals will be included in wills drawn up in Spain, and be given to the heirs if not specifically mentioned in the will.

In addition, other changes under consideration include a ban on the slaugh ter of animals without medical reasons, a ban on animals in circuses, an end to the sale of animals in shops, and a ban on private breeders, with only professionals being allowed to breed animals.

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