Winter 2018-2019 EN by Imagicasa

CONTENTS

3 INTRO

4 NIEUW ZUID

12 MADE IN FRANCE

20 DESIGN EVOLUTION

28 ICONIC FURNITURE

40 ELIZABETH METCALFE

48 DECORATION TIPS

56 BRENDAN WONG

62 MICRO-ARCHITECTURE

66 OURS POLAIRE

70 COFFEE TABLE BOOKS

72 LONDON BY NIGHT

78 TUHURA

86 CLAUDE MISSIR

94 LEMPEREUR

102 ALGUENA MUSIC HALL

108 COIN FURNITURE

112 BALANCED ECLECTICISM 120 ROMAN VLASOV

126 JAKE PHIPPS

132 UPTOWN DESIGN

138 ALYSSA KAPITO

144 KATE TAYLOR

150 DETREMMERIE

154 STEFANO BOERI

160 AMANOI

166 HOTEL LE TOINY

172 FIVE HOTEL

178 ART @ NIEUW ZUID

186 BASQUIAT

194 LAMBORGHINI URUS

200 DAYTONA

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INTRO

DEAR READER, It’s that time of year again: the trees are covered in the most beautiful colours, the sun sets earlier and it gets colder and colder outside. Luckily, Imagicasa is here to keep her readers warm this autumn and winter with a magazine full of surprises. So, get cosy in your sofa with a delicious cup of coffee or tea and this brand new edition of Imagicasa Magazine. For example, we contacted some Belgian top designers for interior and decoration tips, so you can put together a high-end, luxurious and elegant interior yourself. We’ll be talking about iconic vintage furniture that is trending again and we’re also letting some innovative designers like Jake Phipps and Thomas Pheasant tell their story. As you can see, we have once again found many inspiring projects that we happily present to our readers. One of these projects is Nieuw Zuid, where national and international top architects interact with sustainability and biodiversity. On this green city site you will also find two important art galleries amidst some impressive residences and office buildings. In this way, project developer Triple Living not only ensures the integration of more green space, but also of more art in the community. We at Imagicasa can only encourage such initiatives, especially in view of the following surprise we have in store: our magazine is expanding from two to four issues a year. The December issue is an early Christmas present from Imagicasa to her readers. With Imagicasa Art we will take you on an artistic journey through a diverse range of subjects that will leave no one unmoved. Before that, you can already enjoy a little preview in this winter issue in which we will highlight the work of the legendary Jean-Michel Basquiat. Furthermore, in this edition you can of course again dream away at some breathtaking holiday destinations and get a lot of interior inspiration with the projects of designers such as Pierre Yovanovitch, Elizabeth Metcalfe and Claude Missir. Looking for even more inspiration? Know that you can always subscribe to our weekly newsletter on our website. Let me inspire you!

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ARCHITECTURE

Text: Eline De Mont

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NIEUW ZUID

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TRIPLE LIVING VISIONARY URBAN DEVELOPMENT

Nieuw Zuid is a city district with many assets. Located on a prime location in Antwerp, this innovative residential site excels in sustainability. Property developer Triple Living is the mastermind behind this concept for a liveable, green city district that is car-free and has a large central park. It is, as it were, a vibrant village in the city with all the facilities to live and work, for students, families, seniors and professionals. Welcome to Nieuw Zuid!

ow that the cities are getting bigger everywhere, green is essential to keep the city livable,” says Bas Smets, the renowned landscape architect who will make Nieuw Zuid the greenest district of Antwerp. One of the priorities of the master plan is therefore to provide sufficient green space and to open it up to the rest of the city. Smets found himself in a unique situation, because he was allowed to design the landscape before the architects could start designing the buildings. “It is the landscape that gives Nieuw Zuid an image and a unity, not the buildings. Usually it is the other way around: when the buildings are there, the landscape architects can fill the empty spaces with greenery.” The result is a site with residential areas, neighbourhoods, courtyards and squares provided with 12 hectares of greenery where quality of life and sustainability are key. All residents will have a beautiful view over the Scheldt, the central park – which covers no less than 6 hectares – or the city. Moreover, the buildings have been designed by top architects from Belgium and abroad such as Vincent Van Duysen, Atelier Kempe Thill and Robbrecht & Daem Architecten. The apartments, offices, commercial spaces, schools, shops and sports facilities are an impressive exposé of contemporary architecture of the highest level. This evidently includes technical innovation and sustainability. Both humankind and nature are thought of here. This also makes Nieuw Zuid a unique project focussed on superior living and working, now and in the future.

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SURROUNDED BY NATURE Property developer Triple Living gave Bas Smets and his team the opportunity to develop their ideas for the landscape in complete freedom before the architects would start working on certain parts of the site. Smets drew up a sophisticated landscape design for Nieuw Zuid that is based on the concept of ‘living in the park’. On the east side this is expressed in a large, slightly sloping park that flows through the site, as it were. To the west, the park faces the Scheldt and throughout the park you will find playgrounds, footpaths, cycle paths and various courtyards. One of the buildings in Nieuw Zuid is Zuiderterras, designed by the Italian architect Stefano Boeri. In an interview with Imagicasa he tells us the following about the quality of life and the green character of the site: “I think we have succeeded well in creating a lively place where you live in the middle of a trendy and modern city, while maintaining an unrivalled connection with nature. (Further on in this magazine you will find the full interview with Boeri and you can read more about his impressive portfolio and design philosophy.) All this is in line with the immediate surroundings, which are also becoming increasingly greener. For example, there is the Masterplan Kaaien in which the quays of Sint-Andries and ‘t Zuid will be transformed into a wide and green walking zone. On the Gedempte Zuiderdokken the parking spaces will in their turn disappear into an underground car park to make room for a large park.

Â© TRIPLE LIVING

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STATE-OF-THE-ART ARCHITECTURE The area of Nieuw Zuid and ‘t Zuid will become the greenest district of Antwerp, which was not only good news for the landscape architect. For the architects who were chosen to design the individual buildings, the incorporation of all that greenery and the promising location with beautiful views was also an interesting assignment. The master plan for Nieuw Zuid was developed by the renowned agency Secchi-Viganò from Milan, which had previously worked on the Park Spoor Noord site in Antwerp. Here they once again laid the foundation for a sustainable and diverse urban environment. Each individual building is designed by its own architect, within the outline of the master plan, but with the clear signature of the individual architect. Johannes Norlander, the Swedish architect who designed the HÅVN apartment building, tells us the following: “The Scheldt played an important role in the design process. The view of the water is unique. Transparency and light form the starting point of his design.” The orientation and large windows ensure that each apartment has a maximum view of the water. Daniel Rosbottom of the international DRDH Architects office was also inspired by the surroundings: “ZICHT changes as you walk around the building. With shades that change with the light, making the tower almost part of the sky.” By always prioritising environmental characteristics and the view, each and every design has a minimal impact on nature, but ensures maximum results for the residents. That is also the philosophy of Vincent Van Duysen: “I love eliminating, piercing out certain forms to the essence. Schelde 21 also radiates serenity through the use of quiet materials.” Not only does the formal aspect of these constructions limit the impact on nature. Technically, Nieuw Zuid is equally innovative and respectful of the natural surroundings. PIONEER IN SUSTAINABILITY Triple Living is known for investing in new forms of living and for promoting green, pleasant living environments. Sustainable materials and techniques invariably ensure that their projects are developed to suit the natural environment and future residents. Nieuw Zuid fits in perfectly with Antwerp’s ambitious plan to become a climate-neutral city by 2050. Gabriëlle Van Zoeren, project manager sustainability for the green residential site, says the following about this: “Nieuw Zuid must become the primary example for sustainability and smart technologies. It is a mixed green residential area where we apply the strictest criteria”. These measures will therefore greatly improve the residents’ quality of life. This part of 8 | IMAGICASA

the city will not only be a great place to live now, but will continue to be for many years and generations of residents to come. And how exactly is this made possible? Innovative measures include a large network of ditches, green beds, wells and underground buffer basins and reservoirs that gradually return rainwater to the ground and nature. This stimulates natural plant growth and has a cooling effect during the warm summer months. In addition, all homes are equipped with the best heat recuperating ventilation system on the market and because Nieuw Zuid has its own central heating network, the classic individual central heating boilers

â&#x20AC;&#x153;IT IS THE LANDSCAPE THAT GIVES NIEUW ZUID AN IMAGE, NOT THE BUILDINGSâ&#x20AC;?

are superfluous. The result: affordable and energy-efficient heat for the occupants. What all buildings and designs for the new residential area have in common are the well-thought-out implantation, large windows and many terrace rooms. This way the sunlight is optimally captured, which makes the rooms not only light and spacious, but also energy efficient. Because of the radiant heat and optimal insulation, residents will be able to lower the temperature inside buy a few degrees without feeling colder. The many roof gardens also provide natural insulation. Moreover, they purify the air and are just beautiful to look at and stay in. IMAGICASA | 9

VIBRANT DISTRICT Besides being a beautiful place to live and work in, life in general is pretty good here. ‘t Zuid in Antwerp has been known for years as the place to be for trend spotters, shoppers, design fans and gastronomes. As a cultural hotspot and hospitality heaven, this is the place where tourists – as advised by just

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about every travel guide – and locals like to come and soak up the cosmopolitan and artistic atmosphere. The neighbourhood is now expanding with the equally enticing site Nieuw Zuid. For example, you can visit the newly opened second location of the leading Gallery Sofie Van de Velde, which has just won the prestigious Innovation and Creativ-

ity Award at the Swiss art fair Art Basel. The Tim Van Laere Gallery also saw the charm of Nieuw Zuid and will bring even more art to the neighbourhood. Foodies and coffee lovers will also find something to their liking here at various bars and restaurants such as the all-day food bar Barchel, and Zouterover by grillmasters Nick and Kevin.

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INTERIOR

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Â© FRANCOIS JAUSSAUD

Text: Caroline Meeusen

MADE IN FRANCE

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Extreme luxury and reserved pure sensitivity make the ‘Made in France’ stamp that Pierre Yovanovitch leaves around the world. A Pierre Yovanovitch interior is characterised by strength and modesty through a masterly play of harmonious volumes and strict lines, softened by lighting and authentic materials like wood, stone, metal and marble. His eclectic couture approach, balance, comfort and modernity make Yovanovitch the ultimate perfectionist who sees every project as a work of art.

ince 2001, the interior designer has his studio Pierre Yovanovitch Architecture d’Intérieur in Paris, where he realised many projects. He also finished projects in New York, Brussels, the Provence, London and Switzerland. Each project is custom designed for the space, personality and lifestyle of the client. His work stands out through a refined sense for architectural scale, splendour and unpredictable design trends. He accomplished private and public projects and even designed a collection of furniture and objects. This ‘Oops’ collection as well as the ‘Kering’ and ‘Maison 1910 Bruxelles’ project caught our eye. A PERFECT HARMONY OF VINTAGE AND MODERN DESIGN One of Yovanovitch’s public works is the ‘Kering’ project in Paris. Kering is an international luxury group that owns luxury brands like Gucci, Yves Saint Laurent, Balenciaga and Alexander McQueen. Yovanovtich designed the Kering offices in Paris, where authentic materials delivered by the best craftsmen stand next to furniture creations from the 20th and 21st century in an ensemble that preserves a sparkling dialogue. ‘Maison 1910’ in Brussels is a private residence by Yovanovitch. Again, his vintage style is incorporated in this project. The residence dates from 1910 and was built for an aristocratic family. Fifty years later, it was turned into offices. Yovanovitch has turned it into a sophisticated residence for a refined couple. The most striking element is the spiral staircase leading up to three stories and above which a stunning stained-glass skylight flaunts. Yovanovitch exceeds with his use of intriguing materials; oak doors and walnut bookshelves, beautiful fabrics and textured plasterwork of the library fireplace. Each project represents Yovanovitch’s talent and distinctive style, in which he combines vintage and modern design. FAIRYTALE-LIKE FURNITURE Yovanovitch brought his minimalist vintage style together in a collection of furniture, objects and lighting. He created the ‘Oops’ collection for an exhibition with the same name in the R & Company art gallery in New York. The collection was showcased in 2017 – this was his first show in the US – and earlier this year, in June, Yovanovitch showed new additions to the collection in the same gallery. The name might suggest that the pieces are frail or created by accident, but that is definitely not the case. Yovanovitch worked really hard on these pieces. He started designing the collection in 2016, but has actually been working towards it for the last twenty years. The designer has worked with French artisans his whole career, customizing the techniques that underpin his timeless collection of playful pieces. He chose fun names for his designs, because according to him, you shouldn’t be too serious in your job and you should have fun. The cuddly bear-shaped sofas are definitely the eye catchers of the series. The design of the ‘Bear Armchair’ was already a staple in Yovanovitch’s portfolio, but the ursine shape and sheepskin upholstering were added for the show and it was produced in three shapes: ‘Papa Bear’, ‘Mama Bear’ and ‘Baby Bear’. The names remind you of the fairytale of Goldilocks and the designs set the tone for the rest of the collection. The series exists of more imaginative pieces. Yovanovitch designed a

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donut-shaped couch, tables that look like gigantic pebbles and fluffy ‘Monsieur’ and ‘Madame’ dining chairs. Some of his lamps refer to movies. He created the ‘James’ and ‘Marsha’ floor lamps that refer to the fictional president and first lady in the movie Mars Attacks!. And then there is the ‘ET’ lamp, with a spherical head and shroud-shaped base, that of course looks like Steven Spielberg’s alien. Yovanovitch hopes that people discover something meaningful in his designs. It is a very playful and imaginative, but also elegant and refined collection with a vintage look that unites the unexpected, old and new. Imagicasa spoke with him about his passion and his studio. WHAT IS YOUR DESIGN PHILOSOPHY? “I believe in intuition and vision rather than a carefully constructed set of principles. Often, I have an almost instant vision of what I

want to achieve and I communicate that to the talented people I work with. They translate it into a carefully constructed design that we then further develop until it meets my vision.” HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR STYLE? “Even though I try to think afresh for every project, there is clearly a recognizable style I’ve developed. I believe it has to do with balance. There is a boldness to my projects, but I strive to make it an understated boldness and at the same time to always add an unexpected element to destabilize the onlooker a little.” WHAT INSPIRES YOU? “Above all, the strength of a design. I look at many objects, places, houses, whether in real life or in the form of images. Some of what I see, 16 | IMAGICASA

I will use for the drafting and execution, but what inspires me and makes me evolve invariably has strength and boldness. My preferred sources are contemporary art, vintage design and architecture and the opera! I have been a long-time collector and general fan of contemporary art and vintage Scandinavian and American furniture design which I incorporate quite a bit in my interior projects. I also draw inspiration from set design as it’s so innovative. I’m particularly passionate about the opera so I pay quite a bit of attention to the set design each time I go.” YOU ACCOMPLISHED A LOT OF DIFFERENT STYLES OF PROJECTS, FROM PRIVATE TO PUBLIC AND ALSO COLLECTIONS. HOW DO YOU INCORPORATE YOUR PHILOSOPHY AND STYLE IN THESE DIFFERENT PROJECTS? “I start with the building and the people who will live in it. I don’t work in a vacuum. I pay a lot of attention to the building and its surroundings and let my intuition guide me on the needs and desires of its inhabitants.” WHAT DISTINGUISHES PIERRE YOVANOVITCH ARCHITECTURE D’INTÉRIEUR FROM OTHER INTERIOR DESIGNERS? “All of my projects feature custom build pieces that are created specifically with the client and space in mind. In most cases, I work with contemporary artists to create site-specific art pieces, as well. Giving each project a fully custom approach is very important to my practice.”

YOU REALISED SOME PROJECTS IN BELGIUM, WHY DO YOU THINK BELGIANS REACH OUT TO PIERRE YOVANOVITCH ARCHITECTURE D’INTÉRIEUR FOR THEIR HOME? “I’ve loved doing Belgium-based projects. Often my projects come about based on word of mouth recommendations, so once I begin doing projects in a certain region it typically leads to other projects in that area.” WHAT KIND OF MATERIALS, COLOURS AND EYECATCHERS DO YOU LIKE TO USE? “I tend to work with angles and proportions in a space as a means of catching the eye. I also like to play with hints of bold colours throughout a space so as not to overwhelm a room but to add playful colour accents here and there.” WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR MOST CHALLENGING PROJECT SO FAR? “I don’t recall a project that was not a challenge. Neither my clients nor I are interested in run-of-the-mill projects so if there is a challenge it’s a sign that we are on the right path and being inventive.” IMAGICASA | 17

BALANCE AND UNDERSTATED BOLDNESS WITH AN UNEXPECTED ELEMENT

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Â© MAX KIM-BEE

Text: Eline De Mont

DESIGN EVOLUTION

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Â© MAX KIM-BEE

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“A truly creative spirit can never be satisfied, the yearning is a constant,” says American furniture and interior designer Thomas Pheasant. This is why after about four decades in the business, he is still working and is continuously looking for new ideas, developments and opportunities. Imagicasa had the privilege to sit down for an interview with the creative spirit and got to know the man and the story behind his designs.

orn in Washington D.C., Thomas Pheasant grew up surrounded by the greatest and best examples of classical architecture and design. A school outing to the National Gallery of Art made such a huge impression on a young Pheasant that it has left him with a lifelong connection to architecture. He began his studies at the University of Maryland, but the focus on architecture quickly shifted to interiors, furniture making and decoration. “I soon realized my true fascination with interiors and the ability to create spaces that could connect to people, much the way I connected to the grand buildings of Washington as a child,” explains the designer to us. After all, an interior has to be the extension of the (future) inhabitants. This philosophy resulted in the opportunity to gain experience during his studies at an interior design firm specialized in high-end residential projects. Here, Pheasant was able to complement his theoretical knowledge with practical insight in how to set up contracts, deal with clients and the art of presenting his ideas. This experience was the foundation of what would result in founding his own company in 1980. Aside from his work as an interior designer in 2013, Pheasant also launched his own furniture collection with timeless objects showcasing craftmanship and pure beauty. Imagicasa is thrilled to present these fascinating design to her readers. A CONSTANT EVOLUTION Characteristics such as simplicity, balance and serenity are the common threads in Pheasants work. Something he has also always remained true to is his initial affection for classical design. He sees his career as a journey and a personal evolution in which these classical ideas evolve into his own vocabulary, and is therefore always looking ahead. “All that I do is a result of everything I have experienced over my lifetime.” And for Pheasant, this is the beauty of creating. He also tells us that the designs he produces to-

day could not have happened ten years ago. This way of thinking keeps him excited to continue his journey and embrace the future wholeheartedly and with open arms. “The excitement is in not knowing what is next. I expect that there will never be that final design that satisfies me enough to close the door.” We can only encourage this attitude and are already looking forward to the marvelous future designs by Pheasant because we are sure they will continue to intrigue and inspire us. SOPHISTICATION THROUGH SIMPLICITY One thing is certain: inspiration to

continue, is something the designer himself will always find. Whether this is in travel, art, fashion, people or history, Pheasant is open to these encounters. At the same time, he makes the interesting remark that inspiration and influence are not the same as reproduction. He likes to let experiences settle in to be able to fully understand them so that when they reappear, he can use them to create something even more unique. With this approach, there’s no question of copying. The new creation is something that could have only existed because Pheasant has let the experience be ‘absorbed’, as he puts is. Similarly, when he is influenced by IMAGICASA | 23

others this doesn’t mean a literal reproduction, but rather a way of approaching his environment and the design process. Thomas Pheasant mentions John Russell Pope, the American architect who designed the neoclassical building of the National Gallery of Art in Washington, as the first architect who touched him with his work: “[He] initiated my connection to how a space can touch you on a human level.” Also artists like Richard Serra, Ellsworth Kelly and Tony Smith are a great source of inspiration to him. Their way of working with minimalistic forms that evoke sophistication, is similar to his own preference for simplistic furniture that still leaves a powerful impression on anyone who beholds his designs. THOMAS PHEASANT STUDIO: PURE CRAFTSMANSHIP Five years ago, Thomas Pheasant Studio was launched as a collection in which all ideas of this renowned designer come together in a limited series of extremely personal and unique designs. Although he says to have always been comfortable creating collections for other companies and custom-made furniture for clients, he increasingly felt the urge to create beautiful objects without a specific purpose or destination in mind. The studio’s mission is to work only with the best craftsman and to develop products resulting from the pure understanding of these artists’ trade. “It is a way for me to separate myself from the business of design and work in a purely creative manner.” Pheasant also tells us that it is both a dream and a luxury to be in the workrooms of these amazing artists, learn from them and stretch his imagination. Furthermore, this collection is not only inspired by the knowledge and practice of these craftsmen, but also on history and nature. Pheasant explains how these two aspects come together by telling us about a recent trip to Italy, a country where history and traditional techniques are still very much kept alive: “I have spent time in Florence working with a very small workroom whose specialty is working with bronze. They are masters at the techniques of bronze casting and I am taking their artistry into the creation of modern pieces of lighting.” What we see recurring here is Thomas Pheasant’s emphasis on the importance of experience and evolution: “The value of any piece of art is found within the ability of an artist to reveal both where he has been and where he is going.” He gives the example of the ‘Willow’ chandelier that would not have seen the light of day without a very specific experience he had in Paris, where he was inspired by the way the sunlight was 24 | IMAGICASA

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sipping through the hanging branches of a willow tree. This resulted in the idea of creating an organic bronze chandelier made with several hanging crystals resembling the enchanting rays of sunlight. 26 | IMAGICASA

At Imagicasa, we are extremely fascinated by the work of Thomas Pheasant. We certainly hope the designer has many more inspiring experiences ahead of him that in due course will result in equally unique objects.

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INTERIOR

Text: Caroline Meeusen

ICONIC FURNITURE FROM THE 50’s

Mid-century modern furniture pieces are permanently finding their way into our interiors. More and more people are opting for an eclectic style, mixing vintage and contemporary furniture based on designs from the fifties. Even if the names Le Corbusier, Jourdain or Eames don’t ring a bell, you’ll probably recognize their iconic furniture designs.

hat exactly is mid-century modern style? The term ‘mid-century modern’ is not so easy to define. In a broad sense, it describes the architecture, furniture and graphic design from the fifties and sixties. The baby boom and the damage after the Second World War led to an increasing demand for furniture. Designers were inspired by these events and created avant-garde furniture. Sofas and chairs with geometric shapes were very popular and also coffee tables had irregular forms. The designers mainly used materials such as steel, wood and leather. New materials were also invented: instead of filling cushions with horsehair or straw, an inexpensive ductile polyurethane foam was used, which made it easier to produce cushions and furniture on a larger industrial scale. The combination of wood, metal, glass and new materials resulted in striking pieces. 28 | IMAGICASA 1A

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Most of the designs from the fifties were out of fashion by the late sixties, but from the eighties onwards, people got interested again. The pieces are simply well-designed, with a timeless look. The most popular pieces that are finding their way back to us are mainly chairs, sofas and coffee tables. Familiarity also plays an important role in the ongoing popularity. The so-called baby boomers who grew up with the mid-century designs certainly are a distinctive part of the market for the original pieces and reproductions. For this generation, the designs form a direct connection with their youth. These modern pieces of furniture were beautiful and innovative in their time and still look beautiful in a contemporary interior. Nowadays, the price tag is quite serious, but such a timeless piece makes your interior complete. PIONEERS OF MODERN DESIGN Many talented furniture designers were active in the middle of the twentieth century. Here, we discuss some of the most important and influential modern designers, for mainly these names are found in contemporary interiors, galleries and auction houses. Francis Jourdain (1876-1958) French painter, interior designer and furniture maker Francis Jourdain was a pioneer of the Art Nouveau style. He started a small

furniture factory in 1912, Les Ateliers Modernes, followed by the Chez Francis Jourdain furniture shop in 1919. He designed modular furniture for the working class. With his built-in furniture and storage systems, he made small spaces look larger. Jourdain also published many articles on modern art and aesthetics, in which he attacks the ostentatious luxury that was typical of French design at the time. His own designs were rather simple. Le Corbusier (1887-1965) Le Corbusier (10) is one of the biggest names — if not the biggest — in modern architecture. The Swiss-French architect, designer and painter was born as Charles Jeanneret and is sometimes even called ‘the architect of the twentieth century’. Signature to Le Corbusier are furniture pieces of cheap materials, suitable for mass production. He mainly worked with steel and leather, creating designs that are minimalistic, economical and efficient, but also provide a lot of comfort. Le Corbusier labelled chairs as ‘architecture’ and sofas as something ‘civic’. His most iconic designs are the ‘LC2 Grand Confort’ armchair and the ‘LC4 Chaise Longue’. Jean Royère (1902-1981) French designer Jean Royère (8) started making furniture when he was 29 years old. He worked on a much smaller scale than most industrial designers. The rarity of the

pieces is therefore reflected in the price tag. His ‘Ours Polaire’ sofa is undoubtedly one of his best-known designs, but we should not forget his beautiful lighting designs either. For instance, the ‘Pensane’ lamp, which is available as a wall and floor lamp. This lamp can be found at the Phillips auction house, which has offices all over the world. Their expertise is evident in all aspects of their business, from the size and quality of their catalogue, events and exhibitions, to a superior level of individual customer service. You can read more about this designer further on in the magazine. Charlotte Perriand (1903-1999) The French designer Charlotte Perriand (6) was a pioneer of Modernism in France. She studied furniture design at the Ecole de L’Union Centrale de Arts Décoratifs and worked with great names such as Le Corbusier and Jean Prouvé. In her creations, Perriand encompasses the fundamental meaning of daily life with new aesthetic values. According to her, modularity, the most important language of modern design, is never strict or aseptic, but always a combination of functionality and aesthetics. One of her most famous designs is the ‘Nuage’ (book) cabinet. This design is an extreme example of free modularity. The bookcases are an interplay of shape and coloured geometry, meeting the different requirements of space and emotion. Absolute intelligent simplicity.

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THE MOST ICONIC SOFA EVER

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The Italian company Cassina specialises in the creation of high-end and designer furniture. They reproduced the ‘Nuage’ pieces for the ‘Cassina I Maestri’ collection. Perriand’s ‘Les Arcs’ chairs with steel and leather were — and still are — very popular. Charles (en Ray) Eames (1907-1978) Charles Eames (4) was one of the most influential designers of the twentieth century. Together with his wife Bernice ‘Ray’ Kaiser Eames (1912-1988) he created modern furniture. This design duo used revolutionary materials in their designs, such as fibreglass, plastic and wire mesh. Their best-known design is the ‘Eames Lounge Chair’. This is perhaps the most iconic sofa ever. The armchair was designed in 1956 and is combined with the ‘Ottoman’ footstool. This was their first design for the high-end market. Therefore, it is no surprise that we often find this design in interiors of luxurious penthouses, lofts and villas. Marcel Gascoin (1907-1986) Marcel Gascoin also played an important role in post-war design. He specialised in modular storage units and matching furniture sets. In 1945, he founded Comera, still existing today as Comera Cuisines. Gascoin was one of the first to create furniture sets, making this his signature design. The furniture sets were mobile, modular, elegant, well-built and ergonomic, in other words: a model of modernity. Naval furniture and nautical design were his greatest inspiration and his designs always followed the practical and functional basic conditions. His best-known designs are the ‘Chaise C’, the ‘Trèfle Stool’ and the iconic ‘LC1’ armchair. Finn Juhl (1912-1989) This Danish designer (5) and modernist pioneer focused on organic and natural shapes in his designs. The potential power of the material was optimally used, just like constructions in nature. His ideas were expressed in daring, flexible designs in which each element merges seamlessly into another. Finn Juhl mainly used teak and other dark woods. In 2001, 32 | IMAGICASA

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his widow Hanne Wilhelm Hansen granted the House of Finn Juhl the exclusive right to reproduce her husband’s furniture designs. Juhl’s ‘48 Chair’ and ‘48 Sofa-Bench’ were launched at the Salone Del Mobile in Milan earlier this year. Reproductions of his designs are still in full swing and very desirable, but the original pieces can also be found in contemporary interiors, though at a slightly higher cost. Hans Wegner (1914-2007) ‘Master of the chair’, that is how this Danish designer was — and is still — called. He didn’t get this name by chance: he had a passion for designing chairs and is known for his perfect seams and refined shapes. Hans Wegner (2) was

wire mesh were very inventive at a time when most of the chairs were made of rigid wood. The chairs are even more beautiful with cushions and provide an industrial touch to your interior. Jean Rispal (1920-1966) Jean Rispal (11) was a French designer who gained fame in the 1950s for his work with lighting in organic shapes. He mainly used teak, braided wire and folded paper. His creations found their way into the history of international design, including one of his best-known designs: the ‘Mante Réligieuse’ lamp. As the name indicates, the design is inspired by a praying mantis. It is seen as one of the most beautiful creations of French lighting in the

constantly curious about materials and had a deep respect for wood and its natural characteristics. According to the designer, chairs don’t need to have a back, because they should be beautiful from all angles. Wegner created minimalistic designs with an organic and natural softness. One of his most famous pieces is the ‘Wishbone Chair’. Carl Hansen & Son reproduced the ‘CH22’ and ‘CH23’ chairs. Harry Bertoia (1915-1978) “The desire for good design is the same as the desire to live,” Harry Bertoia (3) once said. The Italian-born American was an artist, furniture designer and sound artist. He also focused on jewellery for a while and even created wedding rings for the famous Eames couple that we mentioned earlier. His furniture designs are sensual and sculptural. He designed the famous ‘Bertoia (Diamond) Chair’, an iconic 1952 design with geometric shapes. Bertoia was fascinated by the sculptural forms that metal wires could take on. This design and his other pieces of 34 | IMAGICASA

fifties. Rispal Paris still makes reproductions of these pieces and they are still high in demand. It’s impossible to discuss all the talent from this period here, since there are so many, but some names and designs are still worth mentioning. That definitely goes for Kai Kristiansen (14). This Danish designer is known for his flexible, multifunctional furniture. His fellow-countryman Niels Otto Møller (13) also released a few memorable designs worth mentioning, such as the ‘Model 77’ chair. More notable talents from Scandinavia include furniture designer Frederik A. Kayser (1), who is best known for his chairs, Kurt Østervig with his ‘Gateleg’ table and Sven Ivar Dysthe. The ‘Cube’ chair by the Austrian designer Josef Hoffman (7) is still popular because of its timeless and beautiful design, and also the ‘Barcelona’ chair designed by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe and Lilly Reich is a desirable vintage piece.

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GALLERIES AND AUCTION HOUSES By the mid-1990s, the collector’s market was raising prices of original mid-century designs. Some furniture designs, like the well-known ‘Eames Lounge Chair’, remained in production, but many others temporarily disappeared from the scene. Even the pieces that were still being manufactured were difficult to obtain without an architect or designer. But don’t worry, original pieces are still available today. There are some galleries and auction houses where you can find furniture from the iconic 1950s: Gallery Bouvier Le Ny in Paris is one of them. They sell French furniture from 1945 to 1955 and own some beautiful pieces of big names such as Le Corbusier, Charlotte Perriand, Marcel Gascoin and Jean Prouvé. Galerie Downtown in Paris also has furniture like this. Even in Antwerp you’ll find some businesses and galleries selling original pieces and reproductions: at Modest Furniture on the Mechelsesteenweg, you’ll find lighting, decoration, art and furniture from the fifties, sixties and seventies. They specialise in Danish design, and Scandinavian pieces in general. City-furniture on the Britselei offers vintage furniture, lighting and objects in their store and online. You can also get vintage items online. Take a look at pamono.com, 1stdibs.com and phillips.com for instance. Some of the companies that reproduce well-known modern furniture are Cassina, House of Finn Juhl, Carl Hansen & Son and Modern Source. We would definitely want some vintage touches in our interior to really complete it! IMAGICASA | 35 11G

MOGENS KOCH’S ‘MODEL 51’ CHAIR AND ‘MODEL 52’ SOFA BY CARL HANSEN & SON Vintage furniture and iconic pieces from the 1950s are trending again. If you are still looking for a stunning, timeless, mid-century piece, Carl Hansen & Son is the place for you. This furniture company has been producing classic Danish furniture for the last hundred years. They also make pieces by Danish architect and furniture designer Mogens Koch. Koch worked with fellow-countryman and architect Kaare Klint for five years, and he was professor at the Kunstakademiets

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Arkitektskole in Copenhagen from 1950 until 1968. There has always been a special interaction between Koch’s personal life and his furniture designs. None of his pieces came about as an artistic manifest, but each piece came to life as an assignment and was created for a specific goal. Koch is best known for his classic furniture pieces like bookshelves and his ‘Folding’ chair, but his other chairs are also beautiful and timeless. Imagicasa chose two stunning pieces by Koch from the Carl Hansen & Son collection to finish your interior with a vintage eyecatcher: the ‘Model 51’ chair and the ‘Model 52’ sofa.

KOCH DIDN’T LIKE IT WHEN LEGS SEEMED TO COME OUT OF NOWHERE 14G

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THE ‘51’ CHAIR AND ‘52’ SOFA The ‘Model 51’ chair, designed in 1936, is part of a small series of upholstered furniture, which also includes the ‘Wing 50’ chair and the ‘Model 52’ sofa. Koch prevented the problem of the transition between the hidden frame and the legs with his innovative and elegant new formula. He didn’t like it when legs seemed to come out of nowhere. The visible wooden frame is typical for the Danish functionalist ideal to separate the supporting parts — the frame of the chair — from the rest. The construction becomes part of the design and shows the attraction of natural materials. The frame is made of solid wood and the back and seating area are furnished with leather. In the same series as the ‘Model 51’ chair and with the same principles, Koch designed the ‘Model 52’ sofa.

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INTERIOR

Text: Eline De Mont

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Â©ALEX LUKEY & MARGARET MULLIGAN

ELIZABETH METCALFE

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Not every midlife crisis is as stylish as Elizabeth Metcalfe’s. The Canadian designer waited until she was 40 to make her dream come true and start her own design agency. And we couldn’t be more pleased about this decision! Imagicasa sat down with her to talk about the career switch she made eighteen years ago and how it was written in the stars all along.

ince her childhood, Elizabeth Metcalfe had a huge interest in art and culture. Her father was, in Elizabeth’s own words, “a sophisticated man with great taste”. After World War II, he fled London and traded the metropolis for a small village outside Toronto. “I was immensely fascinated that he had lived in one of the world’s greatest cities,” explains the designer. This connection with London, a city filled with art and different cultures, made sure Elizabeth grew up in an encouraging environment in Canada. Her father cultivated her love of drawing and taught her the fundamentals of perspective and how to draw houses and design house plans. She went on to study design and worked as a graphic artist for an advertising agency. As she got older, the memories of her father and her childhood made her reflect on where her career had taken her. She came to realize she wanted more in life and needed to be more creative and follow the path that she had once dreamt of as a child. It’s quite the a-typical midlife crisis, because when turning 40, the designer went back to school. In 2000 she attained her degree in interior design and started her own business: Elizabeth Metcalfe Interiors and Design. Since then, the boutique company has become a highly respected firm known for their approach to bringing together classic style and modern luxury. “It is a gift to create interiors that feel authentic to my sense of beauty. This is what I was always meant to do.” In an exclusive interview with Imagicasa, Elizabeth Metcalfe talks about her style, her work ethic and what inspires her.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR STYLE OF INTERIOR DESIGN? “When I was ten, a trip to the Royal Ontario Museum in Toronto introduced me to the magnificence of Greek vases painted in 500 BC. Their simplicity resonated with me and sparked a love of the art and architecture of the ancient Greeks. It had a tremendous influence on my love for interior design. It is still the standard of how I define beauty. Today, many things influence my work. I’ve been incredibly fortunate to travel to beautiful destinations around the world, visit some of the world’s most coveted art galleries, museums and gardens, and read well over a hundred design books. Evolving and refining are a constant in our design firm. Today, we’re exploring more contemporary influences, but at the core there will always be simplicity of lines, strong silhouettes, classical proportions and an appreciation of beauty.” ARE THERE ANY ELEMENTS, OBJECTS, TECHNIQUES, TEXTURES, … THAT YOU KEEP GOING BACK TO? “It’s never about a singular element; it’s always about the interaction of objects, texture, and colour. We study even the smallest of details. IMAGICASA | 43

The juxtaposition of light and colour; the relationship between negative and positive space; the importance of shape and silhouette, to create interiors that are intentional, confident, harmonious, and grounded in beauty.” WHO OR WHAT INSPIRES YOU? “I’ve learned that it is often in the details that beauty is revealed. Designers see things that others overlook. Learning to see beauty in all forms came from the study of countless artists and designers. Art is something that needs to be experienced. I am especially drawn to Abstract Expressionism developed in New York during the 1950s and 1960s. Robert Motherwell, Cy Twombly, Mark Rothko, Ellsworth Kelly and Agnes Martin are some of my favourites. It’s almost impossible to narrow down the designers that have influenced me, but I thank Thomas Pheasant, Joseph Dirand, Jean Louis Denoit, Vicente Wolf, Barbara Barry, Christian Liaigre and John Saladino for helping me find my own vision. Working directly with artists and artisans is always special. I have a philosophy that imperfections are beautiful. It is often imperfections that make something unique and luxurious. I’d much prefer the fingerprint of a craftsman that tells me that this piece was hand-made, over something perfectly made from a machine. We are committed to supporting the arts community whenever possible.” WHAT IS YOUR PROCESS WHEN (RE)DESIGNING A ROOM OR EVEN A WHOLE RESIDENCE? “Everything starts with ‘the plan’. Getting the bones right is always our first step. I’m always fascinated how ideas start and progressively grow into something even more wonderful and exciting. It’s very rewarding, knowing that together as a team, we’re richer and better than our individual talents. There’s no need for egos at our office. We all believe that the more open you are as a designer to exploring different directions, ideas and methods, the better your work will be. Not only do we all grow and evolve as designers, our clients are the beneficiary of our partnership. Being open to new ideas constantly strengthens our company.” 44 | IMAGICASA

WHAT IS YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH YOUR CLIENTS? HOW INVOLVED ARE THEY IN THE WHOLE PROCESS? “We place great importance on building strong relationships and a highly personalized experience to meet our client’s individual needs. In the early stage of a project, we ask a lot of questions and do a lot of listening. We need to have a very clear vision of their expectations on a number of levels. Budgets, timelines, services and business policies need to be fully discussed and agreed upon before we start the creative process. Over the years, as our reputation has grown, we are fortunate to have a clientele that places a great deal of trust in our work. They allow us the space and freedom to be creative, to push their boundaries and to design a home that is beyond their imagination and scope of possibility.” DO YOU PREFER RENOVATIONS OR NEW PROJECTS? “Renovations and new builds both have their challenges and rewards and we always like to have a mix. I often get asked the question, what is

your favourite type project to work on, and the reality is that all of them are different and exciting in their own way. We treat all projects with the same intention: to create something truly unique, memorable and lasting. It’s a wonderful feeling to present a proposal to a client that we know is exceptional. We believe that beauty is a positive force and is deeply beneficial to our life. Whether it’s a new build, a renovation, or a furnishings and decoration project, we work on creating a fully rounded design that captures our clients personal vision of the life they were meant to live. Our mission is to provide them with a design that they can’t live without.” WHAT CAN WE EXPECT FROM ELIZABETH METCALFE DESIGN IN THE FUTURE? “Being in the design industry is more than just my passion; it is my life. I am incredibly thankful for my team that lives and breathes design alongside me. We’re a very collaborative office, where openness is welcomed, respect is honoured, and a commitment to quality work is at the

core of every project. As our company evolves and moves forward, our foundation built on our strong values will remain. The world opens up possibilities that I can’t even imagine, but isn’t that always the dream?”

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INTERIOR

Text: Caroline Meeusen

You can choose many different ways to decorate your interior. There are a lot of different styles, each with their own charms. Whether you opt for an eclectic style with vintage touches, a contemporary interior or go for full-on Hollywood glamour with a metropolitan style, Imagicasa is here for you. We asked a number of top designers from the Belgian and Dutch design world for their best style and decoration tips. Get inspired, become your own interior designer and transform your interior into something that would fit right into this magazine.

Â© ISABELLE REYNDERS

DECORATING TIPS FOR EVERY STYLE

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TIMELESS: SOBER AND PERSONAL “A timeless interior is an interior that does not correspond to a style or trend,” Isabelle Reynders tells us. Imagicasa managed to get a hold of her for some decorating tips for a timeless interior. In addition to the exclusive distribution of Christian Liaigre furniture and fabrics in the Benelux, Isabelle has also had her own interior design service for fifteen years. As an art lover she has an eye for exclusive decorative items. According to her, art in all its forms is a good eye-catcher for those who want a timeless interior. Another tip that Isabelle gives, is to use neutral colours. This does not mean that you have to paint everything white right away, with a sober colour scheme you still have many options. Use white as a base and continue with beige, grey and brown. According to the designer, it is also important to bring together objects of sentimental value. These can be either antique or modern. This way you keep your interior personal, so it won’t get boring and will never go out of fashion. This style is always a good choice, because it doesn’t correspond to a style or trend, but rather to a lifestyle.

ECLECTIC: VINTAGE IN HARMONY As Geoffroy Van Hulle says, ‘eclectic’ is a difficult word to define. It stands for “bringing together different styles and periods, mixing modern with classical, art with kitsch, old with new,” according to the decorator. “Nowadays, in about any interior design magazine you see on the stands there will be some usage of the word ‘eclectic’. Many of these interiors are a mishmash of things, but in fact, they have little to do with true eclecticism. So, it’s not that simple to create such an interior. But don’t worry! For Imagicasa especially, Geoffroy collected some tips and tricks to make your home eclectic. He himself decorates houses, apartments and restaurants in Belgium, The Netherlands, Luxemburg, the United Kingdom, France and the United States.

Grey mixed with beige. I get goosebumps when another door opens to someone’s interior and I see bleached beams on the ceiling and a beige sofa that is just a little bit lighter than the linen fabric on the chairs.” His advice is that you have to play with colour and dare to combine. “Green can be

mixed perfectly with blue, pink with brown and yellow with turquoise. Rough fabrics like coarse knitted wool can be beautiful with high gloss coffee tables and hang a bamboo curtain in front of the window with wild silk curtains above!” We say: be inspired and dare to make bold decisions!

His style is contemporary eclectic with baroque and classical influences. “For me, an eclectic interior is a perfectly balanced, well-considered exercise of bringing together the right pieces of furniture of different origins that harmonize in style, appearance and colour in combination with today’s expectations of comfort and user-friendliness.” According to Geoffroy, it’s best to start any interior with one eye-catcher: “A piece you’ve fallen in love with or feel a strong connection with. This can be pretty much anything. From there, we continue to combine, fit and measure. Fabrics are repeated in curtains or form a contrast just to create a shock effect. That one piece is actually the basis of the whole interior, whether it is large or small.” When we asked him about a good colour palette, the answer was: “I am allergic to the Flemish colour so often described as ‘greige’. IMAGICASA | 51

MINIMALIST: LUXURIOUS REFINEMENT Our partner Obumex stands for refined art of living, discrete luxury and has an eye for beauty and quality. They specialize in both kitchen and total interior designs and offer customized furnishings with their passion and craftsmanship.

TRULY TIMELESS, STYLISH, AND LASTING. The interior experts at Obumex gave Imagicasa some decorating tips for a luxurious and refined home or workplace. For them, quality is always more important than quantity, and with this philosophy, the results are always clean and stylish. You could call it a form of minimalism because, according to the experts, it is better to leave things out than to use too much decoration. This will give you peace of mind in your home.

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ÂŠ OBUMEX

Obumex therefore opts for less, yet chooses elements that really speak to you. They also recommend sober and warm colours for your interior. Think of black and dark brown for example. You can play with the palette and reuse certain colours, for example in fabrics, furniture, accessories, and so on. This creates uniformity. For example, they let soft green and yellow tones recur in fabrics of chairs and pillows in their interior designs. According to them, it is also best to choose durable, high quality materials, think of marble and wood. It will definitely not be dull because you still have a lot of choice and variants of these materials. This way, your interior will become truly stylish, timeless and lasting.

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METROPOLITAN: LUXURY AND COMFORT Urban, sexy, cosy, international, cosmopolitan, ... These are a few words that describe a metropolitan interior according to Pieter Elzenga, manager at the label of Eric Kuster. The designer is known for implementing ‘metropolitan luxury’ and there are no better words to describe his style. This style attracts many people and Pieter himself finds it a great way of decorating, because it creates spaciousness and feels very cosy and pleasant. It is not too minimalist and classic, but also not too over the top. He recommends neutral earthy tones which can then be supplemented with colourful decorative pieces. For example, use minerals, different textures, fabrics and patterns, metals such as copper, brass, chrome and marble as eye-catchers. He also tells us that beautiful (scented) candles or cushions are a nice addition to any style, filling up a room so it’s not too ‘clean’. When we asked him about upcoming winter trends, he told us that this is exactly the beauty of a metropolitan interior and Kuster’s style: such an interior is timeless, pleasant and atmospheric and does not necessarily have to follow the trends. According to Pieter, this style can also be perfectly combined with other styles: “Everything is possible, as long as everything is in balance and it doesn’t become too much.” 54 | IMAGICASA

Â© ERIC KUSTER

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INTERIOR

Text: Caroline Meeusen

BRENDAN WONG DESIGN

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Brendan Wong Design brings luxury and elegance to any room. With his twenty years of experience in the design world, Wong knows how to transform every house into a refined home with a magnificent interior. Brendan Wong Design is known for creating timeless, functional interiors with sophisticated aesthetics. The studio has already completed projects all over the world and offers a close and personal collaboration with the customer to bring design solutions that are focused on the customer and always favourably represent the context, function and budget.

T ÂŠ MAREE HOMER

he all-round studio offers many services, including decoration as well as renovation and restoration of existing residences or collaborations to create new homes. The results are always stylish. Given the diverse and extensive clientele, they can design a well-thought-out interior every single time, without limiting themselves to a single style. The studio has offices in Sydney and in London and attracts a global audience. Brendan Wong, founder and director of Brendan Wong Design, has already worked in Australia, the United Kingdom and France, building up a great reputation and impressive portfolio. He won the DIA (Design Intelligence Award) and has also received awards at the SIDA (Singapore Interior Design Awards) and Kenzo Design Competition for his elegant and luxurious projects, which have been published many times. We therefore thought it was time to inspire our readers with these beautiful, timeless interiors. Brendan Wong himself told us more about his work in an exclusive interview with Imagicasa. IMAGICASA | 57

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WHAT IS YOUR DESIGN PHILOSOPHY? “I believe an interior should move beyond being ‘even’. It should have a drama that uplifts you. My interiors typically have visual highs amongst moments of visual quietness. I think it’s important to establish a visual tension so that the space becomes a cohesive yet energetic experience.” HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR STYLE? “A client once described my style like champagne: smooth, refined and with just the right amount of fizz. I do tend to create interiors that are resolute and lean towards ‘contemporary formal’. Everything has its place and each element has a relationship – directly or indirectly – to the other.” HOW AND WHY DID YOU BECOME AN INTERIOR DESIGNER? “My father was an engineer, so I grew up with a drawing table in the house and was fascinated by scale, proportion and buildings. I think from an early age I saw interior design as a creative version of engineering — making things look beautiful and also ensuring they function perfectly. I got my Bachelor’s degree of Interior Design at Curtin University in Perth and a few years later I received my Master of Interior Architecture. I already worked in Australia, London and Paris before I started my own design studio twelve years ago.” HOW DO YOU INTEGRATE YOUR STYLE AND PHILOSOPHY INTO YOUR PROJECTS? “I strive to maintain a sense of discovery in each room, where details continue to reveal themselves the more your eyes explore. Clarity of planning is also necessary: no amount of visual trickery can hide a badly considered planning. It is therefore very important to get this planning right.” WHICH COLOURS DO YOU PREFER TO USE? “I find the natural beauty of the colours and forms of minerals and crystals so inspiring. Such as amethyst, agate and quartz for example. As designers, we spend years perfecting colour combinations, but these are readily abundant in nature. I source and collect minerals from corners of the globe and a unique specimen is often the source for colour inspiration. In terms of colour, purple is a favourite: it’s so versatile in various types of interiors.” WHAT DO YOU LIKE MOST ABOUT INTERIOR DESIGN? “Working with customers to make their dream come true. It is important to spend time with them early in the design process, to really understand the customer, their lifestyle and instructions. I believe you get the best results when you use that approach and then raise things to a level that exceeds their expectations, something that pushes them forward to fully embrace their new environment.”

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HOW FAR DOES YOUR CLIENTELE REACH? “Our studio is based in Sydney, Australia but we work with clients on design projects and my product collections in North America, Asia, the United Arab Emirates and the United Kingdom. We have also created a specific niche in servicing clients from across the globe who choose to have a vacation home in Sydney. The beautiful harbour and beaches make it a sought-after location for a second home.” WHAT DO YOU FIND MOST CHALLENGING ABOUT INTERIOR DESIGN? “In design there is no sense of ‘correct’ as in mathematics, because every design problem can be solved in different ways. It is a challenge - and art - to adapt ideas to ensure that we provide the best solution, practically and visually.” WHICH PROJECT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF? “I have been lucky enough to work on a home originally built in the 1970’s by Reuben Lane, an architect who 60 | IMAGICASA

was a disciple of Oscar Niemeyer. After peeling back layers of previous renovations, we were able to restore the original building and then we brought the interiors to life in a way that respected the history and made them better suited for contemporary living. There is a certain responsibility that goes with working in such an important historic home.”

I STRIVE TO MAINTAIN A SENSE OF DISCOVERY IN EACH ROOM

WHAT CAN WE EXPECT FROM BRENDAN WONG DESIGN IN THE FUTURE? “A few years ago, I launched my furniture collection and more recently I designed a lighting collection for Heathfield, one of the United Kingdom’s leading lighting producers. Projects I dream of for the future are the interiors of yachts or private jets. I would like to apply my style to an interior that is always in motion.” Imagicasa hopes that Brendan Wong will be able to realise this dream. His beautiful style, talent and elegance should appear in any interior, on land, at sea and in the air.

INTERIOR

Text: Arne Rombouts

SUBLIME

MICRO ARCHITECTURE In September, during the prestigious Paris design fair Maison & Object, all eyes were on the ‘golden’ collaboration between the French interior architect Stéphane Parmentier and Maison Vervloet. Parmentier knows the Belgian house Vervloet through and through. And because he thought Vervloet meant so much more than exclusive door and window handles, he designed a series of objects and products that remind us of fancy offices and gods from the Maori culture.

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t’s hard, impossible even, to not be enchanted by the creative and artistic talent of Stéphane Parmentier,’ says Isabelle Hamburger, managing director at Maison Vervloet. ‘It all started with a haphazard encounter, a project for which Stéphane – in his usual demanding way – selected a number of items from our collection. This first contact quickly turned into a friendship. When he suggested his ideas to us we were immediately sold. These collections are a true turning point for our company.’ MICRO-ARCHITECTURE ‘Every piece made by Vervloet is to me an expression of sublime ‘micro-architecture’, so it would have been a shame if they had simply stuck to solely designing door handles,’ says Stéphane Parmentier. ‘So I see it as only normal that they are now presenting a brand new lifestyle collection. All pieces from this collection are real gems in my opinion. The extraordinary care with which they are manufactured and their exceptional finishing turn them into a completely new genre in the world of design.’ BOX SET AND TOTEM SET ‘‘MOTU’’ HIVA, HITI, NAO AND NUI – LIMITED EDITION Every box is a small altar devoted to beauty and craftmanship. Parmentier found his inspiration in the gods and symbols of the Maori culture. ‘I have always had an admiration for their rich and strong visual language. The so-called ‘double zero’ that I nowadays use in some of my creations stands for sharing and unifying and symbolizes as it were a rebirth from two units that meet and merge into each other.’

WRITING DESK – LIMITED EDITION This writing desk is based on the monolith from Stanley Kubrick’s 2001: A Space Odyssey. The partitions in polished brass, of which one sticks out prominently at the top, turn it into to a clean and powerful architectural design. This is the perfect tool to neatly organize your documents and to give the table on which it is placed extra character.

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‘HORIZON’ BOX Another striking object is the ‘Horizon’ box, a true gem in desk design. The sleek perforations create a graphic and luxurious dimension. ‘The perforations were opted for not only for the aesthetics, but also from a practical point of view. This makes you have a better grip on the objects.’ LOW TABLE ‘RIVAGE’ This table is like a caleidoscope of which the polished and matte components continuously surprise the onlooker. The small parallelepiped, a polyhedron with six parallelograms as faces, serves as a bedside or coffee table. When you combine four of these you get a beautiful, long table. ‘The dark patina of the bronze stand for the eternal mystery of the night, while the finish of polished brass evokes the warmth of the sun.’

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INTERIOR

Text: Eline De Mont

OURS POLAIRE

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Jean Royère presented himself as the great artist-decorator of 1940s France. He took that title with him into the second half of the twentieth century and even to this day his designs are still in great demand. Especially the cozy ‘Ours Polaire’ sofa has often been at the centre of attention. At Imagicasa we are also quite intrigued by it and therefore contacted auction house Phillips in search of an explanation for this lasting fascination.

ean Royère was a French designer best known for his plush and playful furniture. He saw the light of day in 1902 in a rich Parisian family. “I’d always had a thing for interior design. So much so that as a child I didn’t want toys: I asked to be allowed to decorate a room in the attic in our country house,” Royère once said. Still, he initially worked as a banker and in the export business in Le Havre before doing an internship at Pierre Gouffe, from whom he learned the meticulous trade of furniture making. In 1933, Royère won a prestigious competition to design the restaurant of the luxurious Hotel Carlton on the Champs-Elysées. This earned him broad support and his career was launched from one day to the next. Royère opened a shop in Paris in 1943 – before the end of the Second World War – and with that he was one of the first to promote a new way of life through interior decoration. This approach quickly attracted a great deal of international attention. In addition to commissions from all over Europe (for the office of the French Minister of Foreign Affairs in Helsinki) and South America (in São Paulo among others), Royère was also popular in the Middle East. He opened galleries in Cairo, Beirut and Tehran and names such as the Shah of Iran, King Farouk of Egypt and King Hussein of Jordan were among his clients. His work truly seems to appeal to everyone. This is most likely due to it being a unique combination of two styles in which he combines simple, classic silhouettes and shapes with his playful imagination. “Often perceived as outside of the modernist trajectory ascribed to twentieth-century design, Royère was nonetheless informed by and enormously influential to his peers,” says the Design Department of Phillips London. And on that note, we’d like to put the spotlight on the designs that guaranteed Royère a permanent position in design history: the ‘Ours Polaire’ series. OURS POLAIRE Just as Royère quite haphazardly happened to stumble upon the world of interior design and without much thought, his most iconic design came into existence. In 1947 he set to work to redesign his mother’s apartment in Paris. The star of his masterpiece – as would turn out to be the case not much later? A round bench named ‘Boule’ covered with a fluffy white-beige velvet. Because of the distinct shape and fabric, it’s easy to connect it to the nickname under which the design is generally now known: ‘Ours Polaire’, or ‘polar bear’. The unusual shape, made of a wooden skeleton, turned almost the whole of Paris upside down. Royère presented the three-seater sofa together with two armchairs in the exhibition ‘La Résidence Française’ organised by the magazine Art et Industrie. After that, the designer could hardly follow up on the orders, but he never gave in to mass production. Royère only started his career as a furniture maker at the age of 29, but did not allow himself to be overwhelmed by his success. Throughout his career, he produced his IMAGICASA | 67

designs on a much smaller scale than was the case with other industrial designers. The well-known French art dealer Patrick Seguin estimates that only 150 pieces of the ‘Ours Polaire’ collection have been made. This rarity can also be seen in the price tag of the pieces of furniture. In December 2014, auction house Phillips broke a world record with a design by Jean Royère: a light green ‘Ours Polaire’ sofa and a couple of matching armchairs were sold for 842,500 dollars (just over 700,000 euros). Being in the 21st century now, we see the designs, and Royere’s inspiration, continue to find their way to living rooms everywhere, from Moscow to New York and from Tokyo to Hollywood. At Phillips London they explain this fascination as follows: “The surrealist humour and artist’s thoughtful restraint that he brought to his furniture designs continue to draw admiration to this day. And so a simple and rather playful design has managed to get the stamp of an attractive design piece. “The allure is simple,” says French decorator François Catroux, who first saw the pieces in the 60s and then rediscovered them 15 years ago. “They’re unusual, they’re beautiful, they’re rare, and everyone looks elegant and relaxed when sitting on them.” The hibernation of the ‘Ours Polaire’ is definitely over! PHILLIPS LONDON Whoever is still on the lookout for a real masterpiece to complete their interior, has only one place to go to: Phillips. The auction house, with offices all over the world and headquarters in New York and London, has an extensive collection of designs by Jean Royère. In their own words they focus “on the defining aesthetic movements of the last century.” It is therefore the place to be for international collectors who want to buy or sell art objects, design furniture or jewellery from the 20th and 21st centuries. This includes Royère’s designs. The experts at the Design Department of Phillips London were able to tell us just why these were so popular from the very beginning. It turns out 1947 is not only the year that Jean Royère’s most iconic design, the ‘Ours Polaire’, was born. In the same year, couturier Christian Dior introduced the silhouette with its full skirts, narrow waist and wide shoulders, called the ‘New Look’. “The voluptuousness and congenial curves of Royère’s own ‘new look’ soften our understanding of what around mid-century must have been a radical departure from both the starkness of modernism and the relative restraint of Art Deco,” explains an employee of Phillips. Additionally, the ‘Ours Polaire’ was also clearly influenced by biomorphism, the style movement that emerged in the 1930s and was represented by Hans Arp, Alexander Calder and Charlotte Perriand, among others. Designers increasingly deviated from traditional forms in furniture and were inspired by shapes found in nature and reminiscent of living organisms. This philosophy and the most important characteristics of Royère’s designs – volume, flow and humour – continue to appeal to us today and therefore, according to Phillips auction house, they are still found in all major art and design collections throughout the world. 68 | IMAGICASA

MOST ICONIC DESIGN

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LIFESTYLE

Text: Eline De Mont

THE BEST COFFEE TABLE BOOKS

Imagicasa is in itself a beautiful magazine and a great addition to your coffee table. But because we like to surround ourselves with other inspiring titles, we have selected a number of books that will not only give your interior that extra notch of sophistication, but are also very interesting to look and read in.

LIVING ON WATER (PHAIDON) A house on the water is the dream of many. This book makes you dream away at residences, on or surrounded by an ocean, river, lake or swimming pool. Even more: it shows the possibilities of architecture when the ground is not flat terrain and that produces some spectacular images. Breathtaking views play a major role in this book that proves that nature does not have to give way to architecture.

MASS TO MEMBRANE (ORO EDITIONS) Anyone who thinks that heavy, sturdy materials determine the strength of a building clearly arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t familiar yet with the designs of Nic Goldsmith. In this book Goldsmith takes the reader on an inspiring journey through the history of architecture and the evolution from mass to membrane, from solid to thin and airy structures.

CALATRAVA (TASCHEN) Spanish visionary Santiago Calatrava is known for his ingenious solutions and designs with dramatic visual impact. This publication introduces the reader to the unique aesthetics of the architect. Aerodynamics, organic forms, human movements and the specific environment are the main sources of inspiration for his neofuturistic bridges and impressive buildings.

CHARLES ZANA: THE ART OF INTERIORS (RIZZOLI) Discover the unique style of interior designer Charles Zana who uses a mix of bold luxury and classic French elements to design modern and timeless spaces. This very first monograph of Zana is a collection of the most striking and unique residential and commercial projects that the Parisian has accomplished over the last twenty years.

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INSPIRED DESIGN. THE 100 MOST IMPORTANT INTERIOR DESIGNERS OF THE PAST 100 YEARS. (VENDOME) Anyone with even the slightest interest in interior design, should certainly know these one hundred names. AndrĂŠe Putman, Axel Vervoordt and Kelly Wearstler, for example, had a great influence on the design world and will continue to inspire us for a long time.

Kaleidoscope Living in Color & Patterns

KALEIDOSCOPE (GESTALTEN) As the cover already shows, this book contains a whole series of daring interiors full of colours and patterns. The eclecticism radiates self-confidence and tells something about the personality of the residents. This unique way of living is very refreshing and also gives your salon the necessary colour accents!

FERRARI (TASCHEN) With the same exclusivity and unparalleled luxury Ferrari is known for, the Italian car brand introduces this showpiece for the coffee table. The book, written by the famous Italian sports journalist Pino Allievi, gives access to hundreds of photographs from Ferrari archives and various private collectors and reveals the full story behind the famous logo of the ‘Cavallino Rampante’. This limited edition – there are only 1697 copies – has a price tag of €5,000 as it is signed by Piero Ferrari himself and provided with an aluminum display case designed by Marc Newson. If you think this Ferrari bible is too valuable to just lay down on your coffee table, there is the luxurious Art Edition which comes with its own tripod in the shape of the 12-cylinder engine. It will cost you €25,000 to get your hands on one of these 250 copies.

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CLASSIC CARS REVIEW. THE BEST CLASSIC CARS ON THE PLANET. (TENEUES) As the subtitle reveals, this book offers you a list of the best classic cars ever made. The fan base of vintage cars is growing every year, events like the Mille Miglia, Pebble Beach and Grand Basel attract more and more visitors and cars are increasingly included in museum collections because of their cultural and historical value. This book celebrates the phenomenon of classic cars with 350 photos in colour and black and white of exclusive cars and real icons such as the Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Gullwing, Aston Martin DB5 and Rolls-Royce Phantom III.

THE FINER THINGS. TIMELESS FURNITURE, TEXTILES AND DETAILS (CLARKSON POTTER) Beautiful images, interviews with experts, an overview of well-known designers and tips to recognize and buy high quality materials and furniture. The Finer Things is an ode to quality. Interior designer and entrepreneur Christiane Lemieux introduces you to iconic designs from the past and shows the timelessness of customized environments. This book is not only informative and inspiring, but with its luxurious gold cover it’s also an exclusive decoration piece for your interior.

UPGRADE TO HEAVEN (TENEUES) This book is not only inspiring for those who like to dream away at luxury resorts and explore exclusive holiday destinations. Thanks to Upgrade to Heaven you will actually get a free upgrade when you make a reservation at one of the hotels listed in it. A travel guide that will no doubt earn a permanent spot on your coffee table as well!

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JEAN-MICHEL BASQUIAT (TASCHEN) Relive the eighties in New York with the works of the rebellious Jean-Michel Basquiat. The extensive monograph with texts by Hans Werner Holzwarth and art historian Eleanor Nairne is an indispensable publication for fans of the artist. Experience his paintings, drawings and sketches like never before. Discover the story and the influence of this legend and add colour to your interior with this XXL version which measures no less than 29cm by 39.5cm. IMAGICASA | 71

LIFESTYLE

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LONDON BY NIGHT

Â© William Warby

Text: Eline De Mont

There’s never a dull moment in the capital of the United Kingdom, we don’t have to convince you of that anymore. But after a long day of shopping, visiting numerous museums and a lot of rides on the red double-decker buses, you certainly deserve a cocktail. And of course, you still want to make the most of your stay in London. That’s why Imagicasa went looking for the best and most beautiful bars this metropolis has to offer. Cheers!

AQUA SHARD In addition to delicious cocktails and the best of British cuisine, this bar also offers phenomenal views of the city. Aqua Shard is located on the 31st floor of the skyscraper The Shard, the tallest building in the European Union and designed by Renzo Piano. You can enjoy breakfast, brunch, lunch, afternoon tea (in true Mary Poppins style) or dinner from sunrise to sunset, but in the evening

the bar has just that little bit more glamour. The cosmopolitan interior by design agency Jestico + Whiles complements the view. The ample use of glass and the enchanting lighting ensure that you experience London from an unseen and almost magical point of view. Moreover, the bar is divided into two spaces: the tea wing and the gin wing, referring to two important symbols of British culture.

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THE HYDE BAR The Hyde Bar is not like any hotel bar. As the name of the bar suggests, it is located near Hyde Park, a beautiful setting that inspired Anita Rosato to redesign the bar, lounges and reception area of the Park Tower Hotel. Organic shapes and plant motifs are subtly – and at times less subtly – applied in the 74 | IMAGICASA

various spaces. Gentlemen will undoubtedly find something to their liking in the rich selection of the best whiskies and cigars, while ladies can stylishly enjoy an afternoon tea or refined cocktail in the lounge (pictured above). The latter is reminiscent of a haute couture studio with the lush upholstery of the floor and walls.

THE BLUE BAR Less than 200 meters from The Hyde Bar you will find this next unique cocktail bar approved by Imagicasa. The Blue Bar is another hotel bar, this time housed in the famous Berkeley hotel in Knightsbridge. With a homely atmosphere that is more reminiscent of a cozy living room, the renowned designer David Collins created an environment that lends itself perfectly for after-work drinks to forget about a stressful working day. Here too, the name reveals the bar’s theme: the entire interior is covered in a particular hue of blue. And not just any blue, but Lutyens blue with a hint of lavender, named after the 19th century architect Edwin Lutyens. Two years ago the bar was renovated by Robert Angell Design International. Angell worked a number of years for David Collins, who unfortunately died in 2013, before setting up his own design agency. With respect for the DNA of The Blue Bar and maintaining the iconic style, he created a more contemporary interior. The rich details and juxtaposition of materials create a luxurious whole where it is wonderful to sit down and relax.

SEXY FISH The menu at Sexy Fish is inspired by Asian cuisine (rich in seafood) and the bar claims to have the largest Japanese whisky collection in the world. Over 400 bottles, that’s impressive to say the lease. Also impressive is the interior of Martin Brudnizki Design Studio: an eclectic whole that can best be described as an Asian underwater theme. It’s a little bit kitsch, with a glass fish sculpture by Frank Gehry and the mermaids by Damien Hirst who guard the bar. Sexy Fish is a real London attraction that not only provides a unique viewing experience, but also pampers and challenges your taste buds. Here you’ll find everything you need to experience London at its best long after the sun has set.

BEAUFORT BAR The famous Beaufort Bar in The Savoy Hotel has won several awards and it is immediately clear why. Not only is the Art Deco bar as sumptuous and exclusive as the hotel it is located in, but the cocktail menu is also presented in a very unique way. In line with the rich history of the hotel and the many stories associated with it, the Beaufort Bar menu is presented as a tunnel book with beautiful illustrations. Each drink refers to famous guests who once stayed at The Savoy – it can’t get more glamourous than Fred Astaire,

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Katherine Hepburn and Marilyn Monroe can it? – or events that helped write the hotel’s vibrant history. For example, the 10.10.10 cocktail was made with Grey Goose, Cointreau, pineapple, chocolate and Louis Roederer champagne, especially made for the reopening of The Savoy on 10 October 2010 and the opening of the Beaufort Bar. DANDELYAN Just like Aqua Shard, we find this bar on the South Bank, the southern side of the Thames. What used to be a grim neighbourhood has

been given a huge upgrade over the past 25 years. In 2014, it became even livelier here with the arrival of the hotel Mondrian London at Sea Containers, which was equipped with a sophisticated, yet eclectic interior inspired by the creative environment by none other than the famous British designer Tom Dixon. The cocktail bar named Dandelyan – again with a beautiful view of the Thames and the buildings across the river – was also decorated by Dixon and is as colourful as the inventive cocktails of renowned bartender Ryan Chetiyawardana, a.k.a. Mr. Lyan.

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YACHT

Text: Nick Goossen

TUHURA

Meet the Tuhura, the newest creation by Oceanco. The yacht can measure 80 up to 120 metres, depending on the preferences of the future owners. The design is a thoughtful wink to the origin of seafaring: the canoe. The simplest vessel that has been around for over a thousand years has been reborn in this technological, aesthetic miracle.

In February 2018, during the Dubai International Boat Show, this project was revealed by his Excellence Saeed Hareb, the secretary-general of the Dubai Sports Council and president of the Dubai International Marine Club. With this stamp of approval, one can only expect something great from this yacht! And although at the moment it is only a concept, there is already a lot of interest. When people take a look at the Tuhura, they’ll probably talk about the hy-

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ceanco is a world-class company from the Netherlands and builds exclusive custommade yachts. One of their most recent projects, in collaboration with Lobanov Design Studio, is the luxury yacht Tuhura. Igor Lobanov, who also designed the 110-metre long anniversary yacht for Oceanco in 2017, has a fresh but simplistic view of the idea behind this yacht: “The thought was to take a natural shape similar to those seen in the earliest canoe-type craft and augment it multifold to a larger scale, using modern technology.” Returning to the vessel’s origin evokes a sense of discovery, and that is the inspiration behind the yacht. The name ‘Tuhura’ refers to this idea as well as it comes from the Maori and means as much as ‘discovering, exploring and bringing to light’. The Polynesians used to be known for making long voyage explorations across the open Pacific Ocean in their outrigger canoes.

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permodern design, but at the same it is undeniable how harmonious it fits into its surroundings. The flowing lines reflect the waves of the water and give the whole a serene and relaxing vibe. The Tuhura is made to give the feeling of being a 21st century explorer on a quest to unknown or undiscovered places. ITALIAN INFLUENCE The Italian architect Achille Salvagni has already won countless prizes for his luxurious residences and superyachts. This concept marks his first time designing a vessel for Oceanco. Working on the interiors, he used East Asia and the islands in the Pacific Ocean as a source of inspiration. The random and seemingly endless undulations of nature, combined with the protruding rocks, set the tone for the interior design of the Tuhura. Salvagni is known to take a pass at traditional parameters and interiors and choosing innovative, unconventional ideas that are beyond compare. His work can be recognized by its soft curves and eclectic, playful decor. When it comes to materials, the Italian virtuoso used brushed teak for the floors, walls and ceiling. Gunmetal and natural bronze are featured as striking accents that stylishly finish up the whole. “Tuhura is a megayacht conceived for a dynamic owner, nevertheless the timeless sense of peace and calmness are the main characteristics,” says Salvagni. “This softness and dynamicity are reflected in the humble elegance and sensuality of the primitive organic shapes echoed throughout.” This combination of luxurious materials and simple, elegant lines result in a prime aesthetic that will undoubtedly please a wide and diverse audience.

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FUTURISTIC SIMPLICITY The yacht has multiple horizontal windows that pass through the hull but cannot be seen from the outside. It is an innovative glass technology made up of a series of dots that form an invisible mosaic. This technology creates a completely transparent view from the inside out, but from the outside you canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t distinguish the windows from the smooth hull because the colours appear to be the same. The impressive black superstructure also consists of flat glass panels resulting in a seamless view. The difference in colour creates an illusion that there is a smaller boat on the larger, underlying boat. In each part, an attempt is made not to interrupt the flowing lines, creating an aerodynamic appearance that radiates speed. Lobanovâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s exterior design is a true masterpiece, especially when you consider the flexibility of the design, allowing the yacht to be constructed in any size from 80 to 120 meters in length. IMAGICASA | 81

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A SELF-AWARE BOAT The new technology found in the Tuhura will surely blow you away. LuxLab, the design label of the Belgian company Van Berge Henegouwen (VBH), supported the design team to make sure this would become one of the ‘smartest’ boats ever made. If you think using iPads as control system for everyone aboard is hypermodern, prepare yourself to be blown away. The Tuhura thinks for itself and knows how to please the owners and guests. It searches their preferences in music and room temperature based on past experiences and will automatically adjust to optimize their experience. Of course light, video, curtains and many other features can all be manually adjusted by a simple touch of a button. There are also plans to create a high technological 360° room which will be fully interactive with touchscreen connectivity.

MEGAYACHT CONCEIVED FOR A DYNAMIC OWNER

The futuristic superyacht doesn’t just look hightech, it blows every other yacht out of the water when it comes down to technology. And it even takes the environment into account. The shape of the yacht is an efficient model that minimizes resistance and hardly impacts the ocean. In addition, the Tuhura has excellent manoeuvre qualities and has a hybrid engine like the ones that can be found in other big commercial vessels. THE WAITING GAME Are there any downsides? Well, the Tuhura isn’t the fastest yacht. A top speed of 18 knots is the best it can do. But speed isn’t really the goal of this yacht. Comfort, tranquillity and pleasure are the three pillars of the concept. We’re still waiting for an official announcement when construction will start. The Tuhura remains a concept to this day but we can’t wait to see this beauty sail the seven seas. IMAGICASA | 83

INTERIOR

Text: Eline De Mont

2018 marks the 20th anniversary of the design office founded by Lebanese designer Claude Missir. Imagicasa wants to celebrate this by highlighting some of his most inspiring interiors. With projects spread across Europe and the Middle East, Missir has become a true reference point for luxurious, functional and innovative interiors that at the same time stand out thanks to fun (colourful) accents. Whether it’s a hotel, a private yacht or a shop design, the designer knows how to make each room unique and give it plenty of character.

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he fact that Claude Missir ended up in the world of interior design shouldn’t come as a surprise. Having a father who worked as an entrepreneur in the construction sector, Missir grew up surrounded by – mainly empty – spaces and the endless possibilities of design. This knowledge of rough, naked spaces gave him an idea of what he wanted to achieve in his life. He studied interior design at the ALBA (Académie Libanaise des Beaux-Arts) and entered the field in 1992. Claude Missir Agency was founded in 1998 and after two decades, many international successes, experience in both residential and commercial projects and the regular excursion in yacht design, the determination and creativity remains high.

CLAUDE MISSIR

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In an exclusive interview with Imagicasa, Missir talks about his way of working, what inspires him and how he creates his unique and distinctive interiors. HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOU STYLE OF INTERIOR DESIGN? “In one word, I would describe my specific style as ‘minimalist’. In as many more words I would say that perhaps the most valuable asset in any interior design would have to be the understanding of how materials are best incorporated. My personal view on this matter is set towards the use of simple yet noble materials such as wood, stone and marble, allowing for intricate setting and detail no matter how much imagination is required. Time changes taste naturally, however preferences do have strong tendencies and persist. As for myself, the minimalistic approach always preserves neutrality between an object and its surrounding space and therefore in these instances ‘less is more’ – more or less.”

ARE THERE ANY ELEMENTS, OBJECTS, TECHNIQUES, TEXTURES,… THAT YOU KEEP GOING BACK TO? “I would like to think of defining one’s style by going forward to what it is that you have to do instead of looking back to what you have already done. This leads to consistency that further evolves to a specific personalized style – reflected for others to see and imagine. Since no two things are ever identical, a good designer at any level must truly be creative to distinguish this very basic fact of life. As far as my prevailing principles for

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positioning and configuration eventually and smoothly leads to the addition of thoughtful furniture, art and various accessories that will embellish a home, office or restaurant.” WHAT IS YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH YOU CLIENTS? HOW INVOLVED ARE THEY IN THE WHOLE PROCESS? “Many of my clients are reoccurring. We have a history of working together so that makes matters simpler in many aspects, specifically towards trust. We share similar tastes as well, so this is also helpful. As with all relationships in life one cannot be constraint to the exchange of ideas, however it is the duty of an interior designer to make certain factors visible to the client in terms of ideas, materials, budgets, planning, etc. New clients at time prefer the hand in hand approach, although it is a learning process for them as much as it is for me as an interior designer. Phases are planned and discussed throughout, with decisions made in mutual rapprochement. It can truly be an enjoyable scale of learning from both ends of the spectrum.”

interior design are concerned: I favour privileging iconic furniture design coupled with savvy contemporary art and paralleling it with made to measure pieces, recreating circulation and fluidity inside of space, with an appeal towards clean symmetry, minimalistic surfaces and a focus on spatial volume.”

WHAT IS YOUR PROCESS WHEN (RE-) DESIGNING A ROOM OR EVEN A WHOLE RESIDENCE? “We begin by analysing the internal volume of space and its intention. Selective material choice and high-quality finishings are crucial to all projects undertaken. What is also essential: solid interior architectural planning and execution. This because smart 90 | IMAGICASA

WHO INSPIRES YOU? “The primary influences of my designs are inspired by the pioneers, formulators and formalizers of prominent schools of thought and movements. With their withstanding principles and meaningful enactments in contemporary architecture, interior decoration and product design, significant and notable figures such as Jean Prouvé, Le Corbusier, Pierre Jeanneret, Ludwig Mies van der Rohe and Charlotte Perriand are my greatest influences. The array of my inspiration is also driven by modern creative paradigms, particularly those of contemporary French, Scandinavian and Italian schools of design.”

Â© DIDIER DELMAS

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Certain items are selected for their proportionality, because they fit perfectly into a rather small interior. This approach makes spaces larger than they actually are.

CAN YOU TELL ME SOMETHING ABOUT THE INTERIORS WE SEE HERE? “I often select items with the same ‘value’, i.e. from the same period. For example, the Aaron Young painting, the Vladimir Kagan sofa, the Finn Juhl chairs and the Charlotte Perriand seat are all originally from the 1960s and 1970s. I also like to combine vintage furniture with more contemporary aspects. You can see that in the interior with the Pierre Jeanneret chairs, the Pierre Guariche Lamp and the painting by Enrico Castellani, which I combined with a more modern Martin Szekely table.

In my designs, you can also find neutral colour palettes, because sometimes I really want to focus on one piece, a colourful work of art for example.”

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WHAT CAN WE EXPECT FROM CLAUDE MISSIR INTERIORS IN THE FUTURE? “I am trying to provide timeless interiors, interiors that may stand the test of time. It humbles me when a client returns after two decades with a request for collaborating on a new project, be it a house or an apartment. What also leaves an imprint on me are instances the children of my clients come to me with the same enthusiasm and zeal as their parents showed prior. These factors really tell me that the spaces that I create may serve a purpose that is greater than I am, and this makes me very determined and happy indeed, as I look forward to the future.”

VAN HYFTE WONEN DISTINGUISHES ITSELF FROM THE OTHERS BY OFFERING FIRST-RATE DESIGN AT A SURPRISINGLY LOW PRICE POINT. WE WILL REDESIGN YOUR HOUSE, APARTMENT OR SECOND HOME AT AN AFFORDABLE PRICE. VISIT OUR STORE AND BE INSPIRED BY OUR WIDE RANGE OF HIGH-END DESIGN FURNITURE. OUR GOAL IS TO HELP YOU TURN YOUR HOUSE INTO A HOME.

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INTERIOR

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Â© H&OLEMPEREUR

Text: Caroline Meeusen

HÉLÈNE AND OLIVIER LEMPEREUR

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A NEW STORY FOR EACH PROJECT

Design duo Hélène and Olivier Lempereur are a constant in the closed circle of interior designers and they are as discreet as they are well-known. Their vitality and creative energy come together in the love and respect they have for each other, as they put it themselves: “As two, we are one.” This close relationship creates a magical connection in their daily work. We love to bring the story of two people who found each other in love and in their profession and who made this work on a very high level. 96 | IMAGICASA

aris is the setting for the start of this design fairy tale. Hélène and Olivier met in the courtyard of the head office of interior designer Andrée Putman in Paris where they both could develop their talents. After a few years, they chose to spread their wings which is when the design world got to know them as HOL, literally ‘Hélène et Olivier Lempereur’. Their style is characterized by a duality which complements each other perfectly. The first spark and intuition comes from Olivier. He thinks of the spaces, designs the volumes and imagines their functions. That’s when Hélène’s vision joins in. As a stylist and art lover, she brings colour to the designs and gives life to her husband’s sketches by selecting the right shades, perfect shapes and the best materials.

TALENT IS A GREAT SOURCE OF INSPIRATION

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Together they are one, but their differences are also a strength for their creativity and work. Although they divide their professional activities between Brussels and Paris, they chose to settle privately in Brussels. INSPIRING PROJECTS One of the projects that caught our eye was the ‘Maison de famille’. Here too, Hélène brought colour and form to Olivier’s sketches through a sophisticated selection of materials. The lacquered kitchen furniture, burnt sycamore, lacquered larch, suede and naturally striped stone are all elements that help to define the house as a reflection of a certain French ‘savoir-vivre’. The different materials, the play with contrast and the rich scenery are very strong, stand-alone features and almost make one forget the furniture. Light plays a very important role in this project, it seems to be integrated into the design as a fundamental element. The carved glass wall against the flight of stairs plays with the light; at any time of day, the painted panels reflect the light differently with their specific textures and colours. Daily (family)

life was also important in this project. A careful and thoughtful redistribution of the rooms, the fine living spaces and the harmonious combination of mineral and organic materials ensure that each family member can find their own place in this beautiful home. HOL’s ‘Invalides’ project also caught Imagicasa’s attention thanks to its refined elegance. Almost four centuries after Louis XIV had the Hotel des Invalides built, it is one of the most visited monuments in France. Hélène and Olivier brought life to this 19th-century house. This project shows that the Lempereur duo is a master in using volume and light. Here too, the light is the main element. A few beautiful works of art and details provide the finishing touches to the interior. For instance, there is the golden post-it wall. In this work by Martin Berger, hundreds of golden leaves that resemble post-its hang against the wall along the stairs. Such decorative elements give the house its own soul, which matches the sensibility of the owners.

Together, Hélène and Olivier Lempereur write a new story for each project. Imagicasa spoke with them about their work and vision. WHAT IS THE DESIGN PHILOSOPHY OF HÉLÈNE ET OLIVIER LEMPEREUR ? “Chic and luxurious, timeless and personalised. We push hard to imagine and create tailor-made projects. Every project is unique, that’s our leitmotiv.” WHAT INSPIRES YOU THE MOST? “All the beautiful and good things in life. Authentic values, art, gastronomy, sharing, and passionate and talented people from any field. Talent is a true and often great source of inspiration.” WHAT DO YOU FIND MOST CHALLENGING ABOUT DESIGNING? “To imagine and achieve real living spaces for our clients in residential projects. We want to create places that resemble them and where they’ll be able to blossom. This entails an accurate balance between volumes and atmosphere. For institutional clients like IMAGICASA | 99

restaurants and hotels the approach is more to write a story, as a continuation of the brand’s DNA.” WE NOTICED YOU HAVE AN OFFICE IN PARIS AND IN BELGIUM, HOW FAR DOES YOUR CLIENTELE REACH? “Our clients are international. Through their native country as well as through their – several – places of living. We are happy – and love – to follow them all around the world for fabulous projects.” YOU ALREADY CONCEIVED VARIOUS TYPES OF PROJECTS, FROM PRIVATE RESIDENCES TO HOTELS. WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE PROJECT TO CREATE? “We do not have tangible preference regarding the type of project. However, we have a particular affinity with private clientele. We appreciate the close ties established during a mission. Many months of collaboration where the privacy of their homes is unveiled and shared.

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“EVERY PROJECT IS UNIQUE, THAT’S OUR LEITMOTIV.”

Their wishes combined with our expertise result in unique and fitting spaces.” WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT BEING AN INTERIOR DESIGNER? “The first encounter. The talk about dreams that we’ll try to materialize in a close future. Everything is possible here at this point. Let the adventure begin!” WHAT IS ON YOUR DESIGN BUCKET LIST? “We would love to take care of the interior design of a mega yacht. A top-end sail yacht would be the Holy Grail. A subtle blend of two marvellous universes: sea and luxury.” WHAT CAN WE EXPECT FROM HOL IN THE FUTURE? “If we have the opportunity – and we are pretty sure we will get it – we intend to surprise and to amaze everyone with more ambitious projects. Remain non-standard and outstanding, beyond trends.”

ARCHITECTURE

Text: Jules Maeyens

ALGUENA MUSIC HALL Algueña is a small village in the inland region of Alicante, Spain, with a population of only two thousand and an economy that mainly focuses on agriculture and the marble industry. COR Asociados Arquitectos, Miguel Rodenas + Jesús Olivares, was asked to create a building that would relate to all the music and culture taking place in the village.

t serves as a meeting place where the cultural future of the village is being promoted. The entire concept and its implementation was taken up by the team of architects. An old headquarters of the Guardia Civil, unoccupied since the 1980s, was transformed into a music hall. An area of 670 m² had to be converted, together with an auditorium of 350 m² with 230 seats. Sometimes, like in this case, architectural choices are more about creating opportunities and activities than about strict aesthetics, materiality and forms. For a project like this, there is no margin for errors, it must be right straight away. After all, in villages like these, it is impossible to increase the budget. The building is located at the west entrance of the village, near some typical local wineries. The new urban boundary will determine the urban development plan around the plot. The old Guardia Civil quarter was built in the 1960s, and the supporting wall structure is of good quality. Due to its U-shape, an interesting central courtyard was created with many possibilities, designed to allow the rehearsals of music bands in the open air or parties and award ceremonies. Without housing a fixed element in it, the options are endless. Furthermore, it was designed along with a backyard, where COR Asociados Arquitectos proposes to build another open concert hall.The new construction is separated from the old one by modified stairs enclosed in glass boxes. They are illuminated from above and try to break the bulge of the whole construction. In the multifunctional hall, the

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230 seats can be moved, so the hall can be used for various events, from a concert to a New Year’s party. This new hall is, as it were, a blind box, a strange element, because of its shape and dimensions. To emphasize this visual sensation, an upholstery was applied in a pearly iridescent material. This contrasts with the old building where everything was left as authentic as possible. Even old construction techniques were used, after which everything was painted white in different shades. VIBRATION AND BRIGHTNESS AS MILESTONE Politicians demanded that the building would become a landmark and could be used as a ‘brand’ to the outside world. This village did not yet have a detached contemporary building that could serve as a recognisable landmark. In practice, this kind of landmark is usually only achievable with expensive budgets, astonishing materials and sculpted shapes. This project aims at the same impact, but with cheaper solutions based on two concepts: one is the psychology of perception and uses vibrations and brightness, and the other is form and combines the round appearance with proportions comparable to the industrial landscape. Strong architectural landmarks are used in large cities to create a recognisable image that is easily remembered and associated with that city and its values. The use of this type of marketing at village level needs to be reconsidered, as a building like this only has one specific purpose. But if you

Â© DAVID FRUTOS

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PEARLY AND IRIDESCENT CERAMICS

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look at the bigger picture, this strategy works far beyond the village and can certainly bring about major economic changes through architecture. PEARLY AND IRIDESCENT CERAMICS The use of this ceramic coating with pearly and iridescent finish responds to the intention to generate a vibrant volume in constant change, due to changing lighting conditions and movements of the observer. This solution causes the building to vibrate and change its colour, saturation and depth. The choice of this material was a bit of a guess, but the techniques of firing, glazing and metal coating provide a beautiful look. It is not really a tectonic or formal necessity, but it is a very remarkable solution for the exudation of the volume. This technique is based on base material in porcelain that is perfect as an outer layer, as well as being frostresistant. Each of these plates is pressed dry and baked three times: the first time at 950°C to paint it, the second time to quickly bake it at 1180°C to harden it and to fire the white glaze. The last container at about 780°C provides the pearly finish and metal reflections. AN ARCHITECTURAL AND CULTURAL PROGRAM For many years, music has been an important part of Algueña’s culture. This building offers the possibility to bring all activities that are scattered throughout the village together in the same space. The building houses a wide range of activities, including music lessons, rehearsals and concerts by the municipal music band, the rondalla and the choir, lessons and performances by the regional dance group, the band ‘dolçaina and tabalet’, rock bands, composition workshops and electronic music lessons. There are exhibition areas, meeting rooms, a place for popular parties and even a municipal department store. Music is a social enhancer in a village. Music bands are a great Valencian tradition, in almost every village or city they have at least one. The musical quality of these bands is recognized worldwide, some reaching more than 125 members. These music bands are not only cultural entities, but also provide a high social IMAGICASA | 105

participation in the village that goes much further than the music alone. This is about social inclusion, education and cooperation. The band of Algueña is a good example of this. People come to every event and even every rehearsal. Not only the concerts are appreciated and followed, but also the process towards them is shared. Since there are few cultural events, the weekly rehearsal of the band helps to bring people together. As a result, there is a network of bands and music centres in the Comunidad Valeniana, which are the birthplace of many internationally acclaimed musicians. This stimulated the founding of the Musical Societies Federation of the Comunidad Valenciana in 1968. The aim is to spread the love for music, and the teaching and practicing of it, and to strengthen the associative life. It offers society a means of cultural development. In Europe, Comunidad Valenciana is the region with more music bands than in Austria and the Netherlands. GUARDIA CIVIL The historic stamp of the building evokes many collective memories. When working on an existing building with a history as rich and deep as a Guardia Civil headquarters, it is generally assumed that the challenges of the project will cover the historical elements. To protect the rich history as much as possible, the architects, together with art agency La Ballena Imantada, developed a social and artistic event in the building: ‘60 glances’. 60 different paintings by 60 different artists were exhibited here, each illustrating a different part of the original building. More than 500 people attended the exhibition. This is one of the many ways in which the building brings together artists, musicians, spectators and families. It is also a beautiful symbol for forming a bridge between the old building and the handover to the new users. This work relating to sociology and anthropology is vital to the collective memory of Algueña and its surroundings. 106 | IMAGICASA

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INTERIOR

Â© JOE KRAMM/ R & COMPANY

Text: Eline De Mont

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COIN FURNITURE

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inding new shapes is like finding new riffs in rock ‘n’ roll. It’s impossible, because everything has already been done. Anyone who wants to discover a new form is stuck with the same postmodern limitations as someone who tries to write a new chord: sure, go ahead, but it all sounds like Led Zeppelin anyway. And yet, when you sit in a piece of furniture designed by Johnny Swing, you realize that the song doesn’t always sound the same.” That’s how the work of the American artist was described by Michael Persson in an online review a few years ago. Maybe he exaggerated a little, but we also have to agree with this journalist, because those new forms (i.e. his furniture) do feel just as good as they look. Swing’s work is seen as a new truth that fills a material void and monotonous aesthetics.. The artist’s oeuvre mainly consists of reinterpreting everyday objects – such as sofas – with materials that once had a different function and are taken out of context. And so, glass jars, a dental chair’s footrest, coins and car windows are turned into living room furniture or other accessories to decorate your home with - although, they may not fit in every interior. The same goes for Rolf Bruggink, whose work also focuses on themes such as recycling and transformation.

You can still spot them here and there, those piggy banks – whether or not in the actual shape of a piglet – filled with old coins. But do people still use them? Well, yes. Just take a look at the works of Dutch designer Rolf Bruggink and Johnny Swing from Salisbury, Connecticut. Both are proven masters in recycling materials such as coins that are no longer in use. Swing’s collection of seating is made out of various coins: quarters, pennies, half dollars... The nickel couch, for example, consists of 7000 nickels and required 35,000 carefully welded solderings to the stainless steel substructure. You could say the object is therefore worth about $350, but we doubt the artist will settle for that number.

In the design world, this approach is known as repurposing: something that already exists is given a different interpretation, function or purpose. Some of the first artists to do so were Marcel Duchamp and Andy Warhol, who would literally turn everything upside down. The latter’s explanation that “art is everything” clearly leaves a trace in the work of Swing and Bruggink. For Swing, it’s all about functional versus non-functional, the art of making opposites attract. Bruggink focuses on the true meaning of what makes the world go ‘round: money. TANGIBLE STRUCTURE “I want to make shapes that aren’t a derivative,” says Johnny Swing. Because it is in fact possible to make new shapes. And he has been doing so since 1995 from his farm and workplace in Vermont. His coin furniture can now be found in museum collections all over the world. And what else can be found all over the world? That’s right: money. Because whether we like it or not, that’s what makes our world what it is. And yet, Swing liberates it from its initial burden. Disrupting the so-called natural order with his art forms no issue for him. He even calls it ‘a privilege’. However, there are also certain expectations attached to producing art, including a certain social

responsibility. In the first place, this responsibility is one of entertainment, but art also has to provoke curiosity and even start a dialogue. And of course, there is also the formal quality, because furniture must be equally comfortable. During our research, we saw a photograph of Johnny Swing sitting on his nickel couch. You can hardly ignore the metal construction, though it’s still soft and blends fluently

I WANT TO MAKE SHAPES THAT AREN’T A DERIVATIVE into the surroundings. Anyone who thought that the couch was hard, cold and unyielding is wrong. If we are to believe the designer himself, then it knows how to support your body perfectly and feels soft, almost like a pet asking to be caressed. SYMBOL OF SOCIETY Closer to home, we find similar works. After having established a successful ca-

reer as an architect, mainly focussing on aspects like transformation and reconstruction, the Dutch artist Rolf Bruggink founded Studio Rolf.fr in 2009. Here, transformation remains an important theme as well, but as an application to the design of furniture and everyday objects. He gives them a new function, aesthetic quality or expands their lifespan. His ‘Recycled Currency Series’ responds to the iconic meaning of one of the world’s most important systems: money. What hides behind a dollar bill or a five-cent coin? Opportunity? Choice? Control over someone’s life? Empirical expansion? Or rather a faulty system that we cannot seem to control? The things money represents are as diverse and difficult to define as our own relationship with it. By referring to money’s arbitrary value with historical cases of hyperinflation, shifts in economic power and the digitisation of payment systems, Bruggink reinterprets coins and banknotes as the base material to create tables, couches and smaller common household objects like bowls. These disputed symbols lose their monetary value and according to the artist, take on “a practical and formal character as a methodically applied constructive element”. IMAGICASA | 111

INTERIOR

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Â© FRANCISCO ALMEIDA DIAS

Text: Eline De Mont

BALANCED ECLECTICISM

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With publications in Elle Décor, Architectural Digest, Marie Claire Maison, Metropolitan and Vogue, the commercial and residential projects of this Portuguese interior designer have already received a lot of international attention. However, one of Cristina Jorge de Carvalho’s projects has always been overlooked: her own showroom in Lisbon. As the ultimate showcase for architects and design agencies, a company’s own office space is, of course, also furnished with the greatest care. That definitely also applies to Atelier Cristina Jorge de Carvalho - Arquitetura e Design de Interiores.

Imagicasa sat down with the founder and creative director of the studio: Cristina Jorge de Carvalho herself. We were able to get a better understanding of who she is as a designer and what she wants to achieve with her architecture and design agency. We are happy to introduce you to Cristina on the basis of what you could call her ultimate business card or cover letter: the recently renovated showroom in her hometown, Lisbon. 114 | IMAGICASA

ith architects, interior architects and interior designers in the team, Atelier CJC receives a wide range of assignments from both national and international clients. Apart from private residences, they have commercial spaces, spas and offices on their record. As interior architects they are even occasionally asked to design hotels, like the upcoming Crowne Plaza in the popular Portuguese tourist destination Albufeira by the Atlantic Ocean. Time and time again, they manage to create projects that — in their own words — “transcend trends” and are defined by their unique designs, which are both contemporary and timeless. This approach was literally awarding for the company, as they received prizes at the International Design Awards and the European Hotel Awards.

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CRISTINA JORGE DE CARVALHO The interior designer grew up in Lisbon, but after graduating from the ISCTE Business School she moved to London. There, she had the opportunity to study at the Inchbald School of Design, where Zaha Hadid also made her first steps into the world of design. In 2000, Cristina returned to Lisbon and founded her own studio. The interiors are fairly eclectic, yet balanced. CJC plays with clean lines and a simple colour palette in combination with various volumes, materials and textures. Furthermore, they also like to work with custom made pieces by Portuguese craftsmen. Since 2013, Cristina has even ventured to design furniture and decora-

tion herself. This work ranges from cabinets, desks, coffee tables and sofas to carpets and lighting elements. She creates unique and innovative pieces, often by combining materials, such as leather, copper, steel, glass and marble. With just one piece you can transform a room and give it so much more character. Even when combining different pieces, an interior remains stylish and will not give the impression of being too full or excessively decorated. The designer explains the diversity of in her work as follows: “Everything is a source of inspiration. I give great importance to details. This is what makes a job or idea unique. Any kind of feeling or emotion can feed my inspiration. A song, a movie, a sunset, the rain, a memory, a city or place.” In other words, the places Cristina grew up in and the cultures she has had the honour to meet have made — and still make — her work so much richer. Many designers speak of their eye for detail and how it makes their work unique. At Cristina Jorge de Carvalho – Arquitetura e Design de Interiores we can see how these details are combined and how they truly transform clean, understated spaces. SHOWROOM CJC One of Atelier Cristina Jorge de Carvalho’s most recent projects is the interior design of their own new showroom. It is situated in a late nineteenth-century building on the Avenida da Liberdade in Lisbon and has a total surface of 250 m². Before CJC had its offices there, it was entirely renovated,

although many authentic elements, such as the tall windows, wooden shutters and the ceiling work in stucco were preserved. The design agency itself chose to keep the walls all white, like a blank canvas that lends itself over and over again to redesigning and adjusting the spaces for future projects. A showroom like this is of great importance to designers. Cristina also said that this 116 | IMAGICASA

EYE-CATCHERS THAT MAKE EVERY ROOM UNIQUE

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project was very special to her: “Almost like a cover letter and reaffirmation of our work to the world.” The rooms not only present CJS’s vision of interior design, but also showcase their own collections which they have recently produced and which they have been successfully combining with a curated collection of other design brands and eye-catching art objects. These spaces are timeless and luxurious, but with a certain modesty. The concept for the showroom was to create cosmopolitan and contemporary spaces, with a neutral colour palette and a pop of colour here and there. The latter can be seen in the velvet blue ‘Electra Armchair’ by the Italian company Arflex, the ‘Together We Stand’ chest of drawers from the CJC collection and the colourful works of art on the walls. Statement lighting elements, such as the striking gold ‘Atolo’ lamp by Oluce and the ‘Taccia’ lamp by Flos also add character to the rooms. Rather neutral colours can be found in the large beige sofa and sideboard, the black leather chairs by Tobia Scarpa and the vintage Hans Wegner chairs and ‘Elda Chair’ by Joe Colombo. The ‘Threesome Coffee Table’ — also a design by Cristina Jorge de Carvalho — again shows what the studio stands for: modest eclecticism. Despite its neutral colour palette, the unusual shape and the combination of three materials (Calacatta marble, polished, stainless steel and grey lacquered wood) turn this object into a real eyecatcher that makes every room unique.

This project not only demonstrates Cristina’s excellent eye for the possibilities of interior design, but also the versatility of her own collections. And of course, the new showroom can take some credit; a successful cover letter indeed!

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Many of these objects can be found in other recent projects of Atelier CJC, as you can see here in the pictures of an apartment on the Portuguese Riviera. Here, we also spot the ‘Threesome Coffee Table’ and the colourful chest of drawers from CJC’s own collection and the woven Hans Wegner chairs that truly fit in every interior.

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ARCHITECTURE

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Â© ROMAN VLASOV

Text: Eline De Mont

ROMAN VLASOV

MAGICAL REALISM IN ARCHITECTURE

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In a previous edition of Imagicasa magazine, we already talked about the visionary Ukrainian architect Roman Vlasov: a man of few words who regularly blows the (design) world away with his breathtaking designs. You better have both feet on the ground – just like Vlasov – because this architectural concept might just sweep you away to dreamland.

rchitecture has always interested me, since I was about thirteen or fourteen years old. I drew my dream house, the house I one day wanted to live in,’ Roman Vlasov told us two years ago. And it seems he is still in search of that dream house, because the architect keeps charming the world with new designs, even though he does not always have the intention to proceed to their actual construction. Modern minimalism and ‘a play with forms’ is how he describes the style of his creation. In the majority of his designs, Vlasov works with simple shapes, clean lines and neutral colours – or rather, the absence of colour. This could point to an architect who has both feet on the ground and doesn’t want to stand out above the rest, although we do notice that he regularly takes reality for a ride in his concepts and projects. He places them in very cinematic, almost magical locations in the middle of nature, by the water, the sea, between the rocks, ... And with that, the architect-designer adds another layer to his work and is able to surprise us after all, which is most likely his intention: ‘Architecture is an art that affects people most slowly, but most firmly.’ REALITY The reality behind the architect is a difficult thing to figure out, because he does not reveal much of himself. What we do know, is that he was born in Crimea (Ukraine) and studied at the renowned MArchI, the Moscow Architectural Institute, under the direction of the equally well-known Russian architect Dmitry Shvidkovsky. After his graduation, Roman Vlasov, who is still only 30 years of age, founded his own studio Archvizual. He works for himself and a selected number of clients. This gives him the chance to let his creativity flow freely and to regularly take reality for a ride, away from traditional architecture. IMAGICASA | 123

Most of his projects are just concepts, fantasies, visualizations, in which nature is always a recurring element. In a previous interview with him, Vlasov told us the following: ‘As you can see in my designs, I am often inspired by nature, by rocks by the sea, by water… […] Incidentally, it is my ultimate dream to live very close to the sea, on a rock like the one you see near many of my houses.’ Breathtaking locations, that’s what Vlasov will always be looking for in his work. Unfortunately, we have to disappoint those wanting to know more about this man, his projects and when they will become reality. But hopefully we can satisfy you with these inspiring images of Project 47.

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UTTERLY SOBER, ANYTHING BUT VAIN AND WITH BOTH FEET ON THE GROUND

MAGIC In Project 47, Vlasov’s imagination comes to life. At least on paper, because this residence has not yet been realised either. It was part of a series of designs for a customer who eventually chose another option. Instead of leaving it on the shelf, Vlasov continued to work on this concept for himself, which resulted in the full-fledged 3D model and the images you see here. Again, the description given by the architect is minimal.

a play with form.’ Utterly sober, anything but vain and with his two feet on the ground. Although the images do make us dream away a bit and float to the idea of such an uncomplicated and at the same time imposing house, which itself also seems to hover slightly and rise from the ground. Closer to God, who according to Vlasov is ‘the greatest architect of all’. Unparalleled and perhaps that’s why a large part of this visionary’s designs remain unexecuted.

The residence was designed for a site in Spain, but the surroundings we see are fictional. And when asked what the inspiration was, Vlasov replied: ‘There is no inspiration. It’s a daily work and

The architect lets others fill in the gaps or give further explanation on Project 47. And like that, it will always remain a bit mysterious and magical.

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DESIGN

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Â© JAKE PHIPPS

Text: Caroline Meeusen

IMAGINATIVE DESIGNS

JAKE PHIPPS

British designer Jake Phipps has a very impressive portfolio. His awardwinning works are characterized by energetic and elegant metallic shapes that are purposeful and also exude luxury and quality. His imaginative furniture and object designs are a must for every stylish interior and even reached clients like Tommy Hilfiger, Harvey Nichols, Philippe Starck, Google and the Victoria and Albert Museum. DESIGNER FROM AN EARLY AGE Jake Phipps graduated in 1999 from Parnham College, the furniture design school of John Makepeace in Dorset. Six years later, he founded his own studio in London and started to design pieces for various European manufacturers like Gebrüder Thonet, Riva, Innermost and Casamania. Since 2010, Phipps specializes in designing and making his own unique and ingenious furniture. In an exclusive interview with Imagicasa, he told us that his career as a designer started early.

As a kid, he used to be obsessed with Lego. He never completed the design as instructed on the box, but always made his own creations. He also wanted to be an artist as a child, but sadly he was only allowed to choose one creative subject at school. He chose 3D-design and that has been the path he followed since. Phipps now has two young kids of his own and he loves to design toys for them. “I am currently making a two-story treehouse. It

is enormously satisfying, watching them interact with an object I have created with my own hands,” he tells us. VARIED PORTFOLIO Phipps built an impressive portfolio with different works, from console tables and mirrors to hat lamps and a folding chair. The Briton gets inspired by the work of sculptors and his biggest examples and sources of inspiration are Anish Kapoor, Andy Goldsworthy and Anthony Gragg. Phipps told us about IMAGICASA | 127

“A MUST FOR EVERY STYLISH INTERIOR ” his work and style: “I try to make truly unique and inventive designs that are a mix of art, design, humour and invention and that strike an emotional chord with the people that will use them. My work is often characterized by energetic and elegant metallic forms that are not only purposeful but exude a luxurious and precious quality.” He mostly uses metals like copper, brass and stainless steel in an innovative way. The designer isn’t limited to one style. All his pieces have a sense of humour and they are always real statement

pieces. We find Phipps’s original pieces in jewelry shops in India, palatial residences and five-star hotels in the Middle East, Hong Kong and the United States, stately homes in the United Kingdom and at international design fairs. UNIQUE PIECES FULL OF FANTASY The names of his collections describe the shapes and looks of the pieces perfectly. As we can see in the ‘Stellar’, ‘Flux’ and ‘Lost at Sea’ collections. The ‘Stellar’ series consists of

two mirrors, a cabinet, console and side table and a screen. The geometric and reflective designs have, as the name suggests, an almost futuristic and stellar look thanks to the silver and the star-like textures. The numerous little ‘mirrors’ return in every piece of the collection and give the furniture depth and dimension. “The ‘Stellar’ collection is inspired by the precious qualities of naturally formed amethyst geodes and machine-cut diamonds. I wanted to use mirror polished steel so the pieces would reflect light,” Phipps explains. The designs are an added value to every interior, and they are stunning when you combine them with each other as well. The ‘Flux’ collection consists of a console and low table. This collection was inspired by the playful and dynamic nature of a firework sparkler. Both pieces in this series are unique and use a single energetic line that flows as an infinite and unsupported loop. The look of Phipps’s third collection ‘Lost at Sea’ is obvious as well when you hear the name. There are golden barnacles on every piece in the series, a console table, two cabinets and a pedestal.

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The designer was inspired by objects that have been left exposed to incrustation from the sea. “Their shape, once crisp and clear, soon becomes blurred and secondary as the sea life encapsulates and transforms them, taking over the object’s original skin and clothing it in their own. I wanted to use very masculine, classical shapes for each piece but I added the barnacles as a precious element to the pieces.”

his collections are unique and popular. His best-known designs, apart from a collection, are his hat lamps inspired by British cultural icons; pendant and floor lamps in the shape of a top hat and bowler hat. These hats were often associated with a certain class and some eccentricity. The lamps are made of real authentic hats and the inside is made of aluminum, which helps to reflect the light.

Earlier this year in June, Phipps also presented two new pieces: the ‘Terrace’ and ‘Salvador’ mirrors. The ‘Salvador’ mirror is inspired by, as the name suggests, Surrealism and more specific Salvador Dalí. For the other mirror, Phipps found inspiration during a long flight to China. From the sky, he saw how the water on the terraces of the paddy fields reflected the morning light in golden flashes. But not only

We asked Phipps what was on his design bucket list. He told us that he loves cycling and so he would love to design a bike, which is the ultimate practical object according to him. He also told us that he wants to bring more colour in his designs in the future. Since our conversation, he succeeded at that, because he just released his newest collection with furniture of coloured resin called ‘Sequence’.

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DESIGN

Text: Arne Rombout

THE BRUSSELS LIMITED EDITION UPTOWN DESIGN 2018 132 | IMAGICASA

ÂŠ PIM TOP

Brussels is more and more becoming the place to be for groundbreaking international and Belgian design. A great example of this growing interest is Uptown Design. In September, design lovers were introduced to talented designers at a number of prestigious brandsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; addresses in the capital during the fifth edition of this amazing event. The city tour took us from one surprise to the other, as the presented selection existed exclusively of never before seen pieces. Imagicasa selected some eye-catchers.

SABINE MARCELIS After graduating from the Design Academy Eindhoven in 2011, Sabine Marcelis, a Dutch-born/New Zealandraised product designer, established her studio in Rotterdam. She has received several awards for her work, including the 2012 Braun Prize. She attaches a great deal of importance to collaborations with other designers and brands. In her creations she strives for a dialogue between the object and the user. She sees her designs as experiences, not just as static pieces.

ALEXANDRE ANDRÉ Decorator Alexandre André is fascinated by the eighteenth and nineteenth century, both eras full of styles and influences that he unapologetically mixes with modernist decorations in a contemporary context. During this edition of Uptown Design he presented ‘Hybrides’, a fascinating series of artworks composed of door handles manufactured by the master-creators of the Belgian company Maison Vervloet.

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LA MAISON ARMAND JONCKERS Maison Armand Jonckers unites two generations of furniture makers. In their Ixelles workshop, Alexandra, Grégoire and Armand Jonckers design and produce exclusive, handmade works of art based on refined metals, precious minerals, coloured resins and embossed objects. A fine example of their work is this solid table, the showpiece of Uptown Design.

BI-N-ÔME Bi-n-ôme was founded by two passionate designers, Marc and Jessy. Their complementarity is the key to the balance of their creations. Their motto is: back to fundamentals. “We create, develop and manufacture furniture from quality materials charged with emotions and history. A simple and refined design supported by materials such as solid oak, Belgian bluestone, bronze and iron. We strive to always achieve a symbiosis, a harmony between our creations and the surrounding architecture that highlights the best of both.” A good example is this table, an iron, blue patinated base with a tablet of Belgian blue stone.

A LINE STORY In 2017, Aline Dubois founded alinestory. com, a website about design and decoration putting Belgian craftsmen and designers in the spotlight. For the 2018 edition of Uptown Design she came up with a unique and historical collaboration. She gives vintage dresses by Diane von Fürstenberg a second life, in the form of an exclusive collection of comfortable and numbered pouffes. All handmade, assembled and sewn in Belgium. This approach fits in with the context of upcycling, where instead of throwing things away, they are (re-)used creatively.

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LA VAGUE La Vague, founded by Alice Roux and Mattia Listowski, is an alliance of tradition, simplicity and the human. Roux and Listowski create architectural and playful objects based on this philosophy. A constant search for timelessness leads to capsule collections that remind us of the magic, elegance and pleasures of life. Inspired by the Art Deco movement, these wall tablets are made of hand-painted and -lacquered wood. Each motif has a story of its own, in a palette of matte and shiny surfaces, various varnishes and woods.

.MODE .Mode, the creative laboratory of Nick Peeters and Simon Van Pottelbergh, is contiuously looking for new form languages. In doing so, they base themselves on innovative production methods and are guided by natural laws and technology. For example, their series â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;MAD modeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, which stands for, Music-Aided-Design, shows objects with sound translated into shapes.

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Thé site for luxury interior inspiration and more. Meet our select partners and realize your dream project.

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INTERIOR

Text: Caroline Meeusen

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ALYSSA KAPITO

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The beautiful textures and clean lines of an Alyssa Kapito interior will make your heart beat faster. Alyssa Kapito designs bespoke, elegant interiors with class that make her studio stand out in the design world.

Images courtesy of Alyssa Kapito Interiors, © Upper East Side: Joshua McHugh, © Upper West Side: Nick Johnson

esigner Alyssa Kapito from New York is known for her fantastic work in the design field and was added to the Elle Decor A-list of top designers in the world. A beautiful and honourable achievement! It is not easy to choose her most beautiful project as all her designs are stylish and inspiring, but Kapito’s project ‘Upper West Side Apartment’ and the design of a living room in an Upper East Side apartment caught the eye of Imagicasa. Several projects and Kapito’s studio have already appeared in well-known publications such as Architectural Digest, Elle Decor, Vogue and The New York Times. Imagicasa also likes to inspire her readers with beautiful interiors by the American designer. The founder of Alyssa Kapito Interiors tells Imagicasa more about her studio and passion in an exclusive interview. DID YOU ALWAYS WANT TO BECOME AN INTERIOR DESIGNER? “Actually no, I was very much on the art trajectory for a bit. I was an art history major in college and then I even went on to get a graduate degree in renaissance art before I realised that my truest love of art actually

came from an interior lens. I wanted to see the art in a room, from a collector’s perspective, living with people in their homes, not in a museum. Most importantly, I wanted to see the art I learned about interacting with furniture. I took a summer internship at Bunny Williams’ design firm in New York and after that, I really never looked back.” HOW DID YOU BECOME AN INTERIOR DESIGNER EVENTUALLY? “It all started with that internship after I finished my master’s degree in renaissance art. After that, I worked at other firms for about two years. Then, I decided to start my own business at a pretty young age, I was about 25 years old at the time. I’m 32 now, and it’s been an incredible seven years. I’ve been very fortunate to have worked with incredible clients who somehow trusted me when I was just starting out.” WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT INTERIOR DESIGN? “Creating beauty. That never gets old.”

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR STYLE? “Classic, clean, neutral and tailored. I love neutral colours and elements, so that is also the way I live. In my home, materials like bronze, parchment, steel, oak and leather often take the place of colour and pattern.” WHICH COLOURS AND MATERIALS DO YOU USUALLY USE? “I love to use colours like beige, browns, blacks, the very dark greens and the palest peach pinks. I like metals a lot, and leather with some patina. Parchment is also one of my favourite materials to use, along with rift cut oak and of course plaster.” DO YOU FOLLOW TRENDS? AND WHAT ARE THE UPCOMING TRENDS FOR 2019 ACCORDING TO YOU? “Not really, my work is pretty classic. I do think there’s a resurgence of the Wiener Werkstätte and a Josef Hoffmann-sphere, since such vibes are happening a lot lately.” IMAGICASA | 141

WHAT WAS THE IDEA BEHIND THE ‘UPPER EAST SIDE LIVING ROOM’ PROJECT? “This was a project where I really was able to express my own aesthetic to the fullest. It was a wonderful exercise in mixing pieces from different periods and genres. I love that everything is unified by the neutral palette that runs through the room. I mixed French and Danish antiques with modern art and classic architecture. The room was meant to feel contemporary with a nod to the past.”

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IMAGICASA ALSO LOVED THE ‘UPPER WEST SIDE APARTMENT’ PROJECT, CAN YOU TELL ME A BIT MORE ABOUT THAT? “This project, believe it or not, was for a client with four boys. The lady of the house very much wanted some more feminine spaces. We chose a pale blueish grey palette with touches of ivory and ran it through the whole space. Since her boys are young we used a lot of durable fabrics but in a way that isn’t very obvious.”

“CREATING BEAUTY. THAT NEVER GETS OLD.”

WHAT PROJECT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF? “I really love all my projects. Picking one would almost be like asking a mother who her favourite child is! I’m honestly proud of all of our projects, they all have a little bit of me in them.” WHO DO YOU LOOK UP TO IN THE DESIGN WORLD? “Stephen Sills and Jacques Grange have been hugely inspirational to me.”

HOW IS YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH YOUR CLIENTS AND HOW FAR DOES YOUR CLIENTELE REACH? “We have a wonderful relationship with our clients. We are, after all, creating a space for them to live in, and that is an extremely personal and specific art. If the result would be beautiful but impractical, I wouldn’t consider it truly successful. I want my clients to fully enjoy living in the spaces we create for them for many years.”

WHAT’S ON YOUR DESIGN BUCKET LIST? “To create a furniture collection. And that dream will soon come true because our furniture collection is set to come out in 2019.” After seeing all her stunning interior designs, we cannot wait for the undoubtedly equally stylish furniture pieces that Alyssa Kapito will treat the design world to. IMAGICASA | 143

INTERIOR

Text: Caroline Meeusen

“We breathe life into our clients’ visions”. With this motto, Kate Taylor Interiors creates refined, comfortable and functional interiors. From luxurious bachelor pads to modern houses and children’s rooms. Kate Taylor can and does it all with passion and talent.

ate Taylor has already worked for Nate Berkus Associates in Chicago and Interiors Division of Loro Piana in New York, but in 2013 she finally took the plunge and made her dream come true. The designer founded her own unique and innovative studio Kate Taylor Interiors. The studio focuses mainly on the taste and lifestyle of the customer. The design process therefore revolves around a detailed understanding of the client’s needs. Taylor always opts for refined and timeless materials, an elegant colour palette and classic lines. She designs beautiful and comfortable interiors that Imagicasa loves to introduce to her readers. She has already transformed a historical gem into a modern home in the project ‘Michigan Avenue’ in Chicago. A minimalist and serene interior design contrasts beautifully with the view of the bustling Millennium Park and The Art Institute. In ‘Cathedral Heights’ in Washington DC, she brings the atmosphere of a luxury suite in a row house for a bachelor who likes to travel and wanted to recreate the feeling of a luxury hotel in his home. Taylor designed ‘Randolph Street’ for an art and comic book collector in Chicago. The client wanted an interior concept in which his collected works and pieces were complemented and accentuated. We show you images of these three beautiful projects. In each design, Taylor transforms the space into a luxurious and elegant interior, entirely according to the idea and the wishes of the client. Kate Taylor talks about her passion and studio in an exclusive interview with Imagicasa. 144 | IMAGICASA

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LIVING VISION

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WHAT IS YOUR DESIGN PHILOSOPHY? “We gather a detailed understanding of our clients’ needs. Then, with the use of refined and timeless materials, an elegant colour palette, and classic lines, we create beautiful, comfortable, and functional interiors.”

HOW DID YOU BECOME AN INTERIOR DESIGNER, WAS IT ALWAYS YOUR DREAM? “It was always a dream to be in a creative field. I have a background in business and design and after attending university I started with a small kitchen design company. My career then took me to Baker Furniture and Nate Berkus Associates in Chicago, and Loro Piana Interiors in New York. Once on the career path of interior design, I knew it was the right fit for me. When I moved back to Chicago from New York, it was the perfect time to start on my own and Kate Taylor Interiors was born!”

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR STYLE? “Clean, luxurious and tailored, but very comfortable and livable.” HOW DO YOU INTEGRATE YOUR STYLE AND PHILOSOPHY IN YOUR INTERIOR DESIGNS? “I hope that at this point in my career my clients come to me because they have seen my work and believe in my aesthetics and process for their space. The best client relationships and the most beautiful spaces happen when the client has full trust in my philosophy and style.”

WHAT IS THE STYLE OF YOUR OWN HOME AND INTERIOR? “My home is a constant work in progress. It is so hard for me to pull the trigger on something, big or small. As I grow as a professional, I want my space to evolve with me. Therefore, my home is never quite complete or where I want it to be design-wise.”

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ELEGANT AND CLASSIC, LONG AFTER THE TRENDS HAVE COME AND GONE

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WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT DESIGNING INTERIORS? “I love the installation and the reveal to the client. After all of the work, planning, etc. When you see the space come together and you can style the room the way you had envisioned in your mind. That is so much fun! And very rewarding. Seeing the client’s reaction on install day is why we keep working so hard.” WHICH TRENDS DO YOU PREDICT FOR WINTER 2018-2019? “I am looking forward to see more colour in general and warmer colours like orange, gold, curry and pink.” DO YOU FOLLOW TRENDS? IF YES, WHY AND WHICH ONES? “I try to limit the number of trends used in one space. Maybe we will throw in one ‘on trend’ element per home. This can be a paint colour, metal or wooden finish, etc. I get sick of seeing the same trends and the same room everywhere I look. I hope my clients’ homes continue to feel fresh, elegant and classic long after the trends have come and gone.” WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE PROJECT OR THE ONE YOU’RE MOST PROUD OF? “Two of the three projects you chose! Randolph Street and Cathedral Heights. I also have a celebrity client – to remain unnamed – right now which is fun and exciting!” WHAT DISTINGUISHES KATE TAYLOR INTERIORS FROM OTHER INTERIOR DESIGNERS? “I really hope my client service and communication is what sets me apart. I want each client to have full trust in my process and I think that starts with setting the highest level of customer service.” WHAT CAN WE EXPECT IN THE FUTURE FROM KATE TAYLOR INTERIORS? “Hopefully a growing company, more beautiful spaces and very happy customers! I would also love to have a client outside of the United States one day.”

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INTERIOR

Â© HOTEL LE TOINY

Text: Eline De Mont

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BELGIUM-MADE BATHROOMS

In 1939, Detremmerie was founded as a furniture manufacturer. Later, the range was expanded with kitchens and ultimately also bathroom furniture. With the latter, the Belgian company managed to surprise the market, always taking into account the wishes and needs of their clients in the Benelux. Innovative designs, materials and production methods are still key elements at Detremmerie, which now only offers bathroom furniture. To the question of how they continue to convince customers, distinguish themselves from the competition and how they manage to keep the entire production process in Belgium, the answer is simple: No Limit!

o Limit is the name of the collection Detremmerie introduced a few years ago. It was an answer to the question of how, as a Belgian manufacturer, they could survive in a world of mass production and competition with low-wage countries and China. Quality and service, which have been the pillars of the company for decades, were complemented by the possibility to create a bathroom that is completely tailored to the client’s lifestyle and according to his taste and budget. With this method they also know how to motivate the 424 showrooms in the Benelux that offer their bathroom furniture to continue selling these Belgium-made products. No Limit is a collection with some 200,000 possible outcomes, so endless indeed. Composing your own bathroom furniture “can even be done digitally from your lazy chair with our online configurator,” Koen Ducatteeuw tells us. Ducatteeuw has been working for Detremmerie for 25 years, starting as an employee in the showroom and working in import & export, eventually becoming sales manager, product manager and ultimately CEO. He is therefore the ideal person to tell us all about this company and to explain how it has been able to maintain its position as market leader after 80 years. IMAGICASA | 151

HOW HAS THE COMPANY EVOLVED OR CHANGED OVER THE YEARS? “Detremmerie has evolved from a pure production company, where service and quality were the key elements, to a company that invests in design and new products, without compromising on service and quality. Detremmerie has also become the real market leader and has developed its production methods making sure we can keep production in Belgium.” WHAT ARE YOUR MAIN PILLARS AND HOW CAN YOU GUARANTEE THEM PERMANENTLY? “Our most important pillars are quality, innovation and service. We can guarantee this permanently by continuously investing in the right people and machines. Quality is also guaranteed by the presence of our Quality Manager. Our machines are ‘customer made’ and here too we use the very latest techniques – at Detremmerie we have the largest automatic plate warehouse in European bathroom furniture production. We continuously innovate thanks to our in-house designers who know how to present new creations at the right time. Because we are mainly active in the luxury segment, service is very important. We select our sales outlets carefully and have our own service managers in Belgium and the Netherlands to assist clients where necessary.” WHICH OF YOUR PRODUCTS/STYLES/MATERIALS ARE MOST POPULAR? “It’s not just one product, but our broad range obviously appeals to our clients. We have a large assortment of furniture in various finishes ranging from matte, imitation wood, imitation veneer and high-gloss lacquered in 48 trendy colours. This can be supplemented with wash basin tops made of various materials such as ceramic, artificial marble, top solid (matte) and mineral stone 152 | IMAGICASA

(imitation natural stone) and the latest trend now: marble and concrete. The cherry on top of a beautiful vanity is still a marble worktop, not the standard marble plates but a block of marble that is composed as a cabinet or sink. The concrete washbasin tops are new in the No Limit range and are aimed at customers who like a more sturdy or rugged look. A popular model in this range is the wide beveled basin.” WHICH PRODUCTS ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF? “Detremmerie has long been known for its excellent highgloss finishes. Our doors and cabinets are always finished glossy on both sides. At the moment we are also very proud of our marble and concrete worktops. Our designers managed to create a beautiful, sleek washbasin from a single block of marble, which is perfectly in line with the rest of

our bathroom furniture collection.”

OUR MOST IMPORTANT PILLARS ARE QUALITY, INNOVATION AND SERVICE

HOW DO YOU DEAL WITH TRENDS AND TECHNOLOGICAL INNOVATIONS? “As market leader, we are expected to introduce new trends, styles and materials to our range at the right time. Our team visits the biggest international fairs and travels a lot to get to know the new trends. We then look at which trends are applicable in our markets and translate this into a suitable design. Detremmerie consists of a young team that loves innovation. However, we take this very seriously and test everything out before it is put into production; we cannot afford to let our established reputation be tarnished. The new designs and materials undergo the strictest tests so that they can be introduced at the right time, taking

into account the economic climate and customer demand.” HOW DOES DETREMMERIE DISTINGUISHES ITSELF FROM OTHERS IN THE SAME INDUSTRY? “Detremmerie always does it slightly different than its competitors – we often don’t even know exactly what they do. We start from our own strength and listen to what our clients need. By actively participating in trade fairs such as VT Wonen & Design, Interieur in Kortrijk and Batibouw, we receive a lot of information from our clients, which we translate into new designs. Moreover, Detremmerie has been a reference for years and is often chosen for our bathroom furniture generation after generation. With us, every generation can choose from a contemporary collection.” WHAT INNOVATIONS CAN WE EXPECT THIS AUTUMN/ WINTER? “Early October we present a new VT Wonen collection, which we designed together with the stylists of VT Wonen. In addition to our No Limit range with marble and concrete worktops, we also present ‘Architect’, which starts where No Limit stops: washbasin tops, mirrors and base units with custom fittings in 48 colours and various finishes. You choose your integrated basin and you also choose where we incorporate it for you in a matte surface up to 300 cm wide.” WHAT IS YOUR VISION FOR THE FUTURE? “Detremmerie will continue to listen to what the market demands. Our extensive automatization enables us to respond quickly to this. We are also ready to produce furniture for other countries, should the need arise. We are determined to continue to follow the market in sanitation facilities and to meet its needs in our own way in consultation with our loyal clients.”

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ARCHITECTURE

Text: Eline De Mont

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A GREEN VISION

STEFANO BOERI

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Stefano Boeri is quite a visionair. His revolutionary design for the Bosco Verticale in Milan earned the architect-urbanist world fame in 2009. Since then, his groundbreaking, green designs have gradually changed the world and the perspective on liveable urban environments. Soon you will also be able to admire his work in Belgium: at Nieuw Zuid, construction has started for Zuiderterras, his first design in our country.

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tefano Boeri (°1956) has been working as an architect for more than thirty years. Since graduating from the well-known Politecnico di Milano, he regularly writes articles on sustainable urban development, teaches at various renowned institutes and has also become chairman of the Fondazione La Triennale di Milano. With his firm Stefano Boeri Architetti he has become an absolute reference in the field of sustainable architecture, social housing and strategic urban development. Boeri sees his so-called ‘vertical forests’ as a solution for global warming, increasing air pollution and the rising demand for more biodiversity in cities. Thanks to an innovative vision and pure designs – with natural materials and clean lines – even his earliest designs today look contemporary and modern. With his timeless designs, Boeri is the ideal architect to contribute to the Nieuw Zuid project, which plays a pioneering role in the field of sustainability and promotes prime living and working spaces, for now and for the future.

NIEUW ZUID Zuiderterras is Stefano Boeri’s first design on Belgian soil. The building clearly bears Boeri’s design characteristics and green philosophy: a pure, timeless architecture with trees and plants that fan out, as it were, over the stepped facades. A vertical urban forest in Antwerp that creates more greenery in the city and a greater quality of life for its residents. The central courtyard, three communal roof gardens, facades and spacious private terraces will be adorned with a great diversity of trees and plants. We were able to ask the Italian master a few questions about his green vision and his design for Nieuw Zuid. WHY THIS FASCINATION FOR GREEN? “I have no fascination for green in itself. It’s more of an obsession with trees. I see them as individuals, with their own evolution and intelligence. The project ‘7000 Oaks’ by the German artist Joseph Beuys has strongly inspired me. There is a symbolism behind it that has influenced me enormously: the metamorphosis from mineral to nature. How can we demineralise our urban environment? That is a hot topic these days.” HOW DO YOU TRANSLATE THIS FASCINATION INTO ARCHITECTURE? “The more we can incorporate nature into our cities, the better we will be able to cope with and adjust to climate change. Just think of the advantages: better air quality, less energy consumption and better biodiversity in the cities. And, not unimportantly, a green environment increases the feeling of happiness of the people who live there. All these advantages make the idea of urban forests very contemporary. What’s more, it is crucial for the years to come. All over the world, people are thinking about how we can make cities greener.”

VERTICAL FORESTS Creating liveable environments in (large) cities has been a central theme in Boeri’s career from the very beginning. The exponential growth of cities worldwide, resulting in air pollution and deforestation, made him look at trees as a solution. They can filter CO2 from the air, which gave the architect the idea of designing ‘vertical forests’: buildings almost entirely covered in trees and plants. The Bosco Verticale in Milan was the first result of this. Boeri’s team worked closely with botanists, structural engineers and specialists. They spent six months studying and anticipating problems that could arise in the future with more than 20,000 tree and plant species. The two green residential towers definitively put Boeri’s office on the world map. Since the inauguration in 2014, the idea of a vertical forest has grown into a concept that has been implemented in various places in Europe, South America and Asia. Imagicasa is pleased to announce the first Belgian project by Boeri: Zuiderterras, which will soon be unveiled at Nieuw Zuid in Antwerp. IMAGICASA | 157

WHAT ATTRACTED YOU TO THE NIEUW ZUID PROJECT? “I am very happy to have been able to make a design within the framework of Studio Secchi-Viganò’s master plan. Bernardo Secchi has always been my mentor and I even obtained my doctoral degree with him in Venice. He helped me to develop my own original vision. Paola Viganò is also a fantastic architect. She has a very good idea of what an urban design should look like. In the 90s and early 2000s, cities suddenly saw an explosion of styles and influences. The city lost its unity and structure. Today, cities are trying to restore this by adopting a clear vision, setting their priorities. Nieuw Zuid is a good example of this: a new district that is being developed according to clear rules, but within those rules there is room for architectural freedom.” WHAT IS THE IDEA BEHIND THE DESIGN FOR ZUIDERTERRAS? “We felt that it was essential to emphasise the openness of the building at this location in Nieuw Zuid. That is why we opted for a small and lively design in L-shape. We also wanted to incorporate nature into the design. Because of its shape, the building has three large communal 158 | IMAGICASA

roof gardens: on the third, sixth and seventh floors. I wanted to make a design that was different from that of the buildings around it. At the same time, I wanted my design to be coherent with the other designs. Continuity is the best way to respect the context of the neighbourhood. You have to be aware of what is happening around you to create something that is different in the right way.” HOW DO YOU COMBINE GREENERY WITH OPTIMAL LIVING QUALITY? “In close cooperation with Laura Gatti, we selected the right trees and plants for this particular building and studied how they will behave in different weather situations. We have done everything possible to optimise liveability and the quality of life. In Zuiderterras you will only find sun-drenched apartments with lots of natural light. The connection with nature is evident everywhere. You have the green roof gardens and the beautiful view of the intimate green courtyard. I think we have succeeded very well in creating a lively place where you live in the middle of a trendy and modern city, while maintaining an unparalleled connection with nature.”

A REFLECTION OF YOU

Imagicasa creates your dream interior Contact us today for your home of tomorrow info@imagicasa.be

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HOTEL

Text: Eline De Mont

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AMANOI

A PLACE OF PEACE

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The hotel group Aman Resorts has opened another exclusive location, one that is perfect for those wanting to get away from the cold winter months. At Amanoi, on the coastline of the Núi Chúa National Park in Vietnam, peace and relaxation are key. The word ‘aman’ is Sanskrit for ‘peace’. Combined with the Vietnamese word ‘noi’ (‘place’), you get ‘amanoi’: a place of peace.

eaving everyday life behind to relax for a while and return home completely ‘reborn’ is no longer an exclusive moment of indulgence, it’s a necessity in this fast-paced and demanding world. Amanoi offers a chance to get away from obligations and routine and to gain an enriching experience or to learn about stress release. The remote location amidst unspoilt nature – with secluded white-sand beaches, a lake covered with lotus flowers and steep cliffs that plunge into the South China Sea – is the ideal setting to enjoy a satisfying, peaceful break. What certainly contributes to this is the ingenious architecture by Belgian designer Jean-Michel Gathy who aimed to preserve as much of the pristine environment as possible. Here, contact with and respect for nature are also clearly present. So, it’s not only the wellness facilities (including three recently introduced holistic retreats) that help you relax here, but really all aspects of the resort are constructed for this purpose, making it a unique place that will undoubtedly charm you as well. A WELL-DESERVED BREAK Amanoi is not just a resort for those looking for a relaxing beach holiday. It is so much more, starting with the unseen level of privacy and tranquillity that the hotel complex has to offer. With eleven free-standing guest pavilions, eighteen villas (including private pool), five full-fledged residences (with staff and separate sleeping pavilions) and two brand new ‘Spa Houses’, Amanoi meets all your needs and wishes. Situated in the 11.000 m2 Aman Spa setting, the latter offers a truly exclusive experience and lets you enjoy all the wellness facilities and yoga or Pilates sessions in the utmost privacy without being disturbed by other guests or staff members. 162 | IMAGICASA

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Furthermore, Amanoi has one of the most extensive and innovative spas in Vietnam. There are two hydrotherapy rooms, a hair salon, a manicure and pedicure room, various lounges with breath-taking views of the mountains or the sea and a number of options for fitness or relaxation, such as the Pilates studio and the outdoor yoga pavilion. The resort also regularly introduces new programs for a full-fledged holistic retreat, either for groups (‘The Ultimate Cure for Stress) of for individuals (‘A Grounding Retreat’). These programmes include various sessions on mindfulness, therapeutic wellness treatments, movement therapies and stress reduction techniques. PEACEFUL ARCHITECTURE Of course, all this also requires an environment that exudes peace and tranquillity. One of the challenges of this project – which is also the first Aman resort in Vietnam – was to minimise destruction of the local fauna and flora, i.e. to preserve peace with the surrounding nature. Thanks to the holistic approach of the Belgian-born designer and architect Jean-Michel Gathy, this goal was achieved. Not only the wellness facilities and yoga sessions, but also the various buildings and guest pavilions exude tranquillity, peace and privacy. Many architectural elements imitate the organic shapes of the environment. Gathy wanted to minimize the visual impact of the resort on the en164 | IMAGICASA

vironment. At the same time, the essence of his design is a juxtaposition between those architectural elements and the hills, vegetation and the view. DESIGNER OF LUXURY HOTELS Jean-Michel Gathy (°1955) was born in Brussels and grew up in Liège. His career as a successful designer and architect, as well as his urge to discover the world led him across all continents. Yet Asia remains his favourite one to stay. The best proof of this is his relocation to Malaysia a few years ago where he lives with his wife and son in Kuala Lumpur. Although Gathy himself lives in an elaboratively decorated villa of over 1000m², he is par-

ticularly known for designing and furnishing luxury hotels and resorts. What’s more: with over twenty years of experience and his so-called ‘lifestyle-oriented’ designs, he is a true legend in the hotel scene. Hospitality developers like Aman, Four Seasons, Park Hyatt and Shangri-La invariably turn to Gathy when they have a new project on the agenda. Nevertheless, each hotel or resort is unique, because the designer and his team always strive for harmony with the environment, which is different everywhere. The same applies for the facilities and activities offered by the hotel. Sometimes culture is an important influence, sometimes it is spirituality.

THE ELEGANCE AND ARTISTIC SIMPLICITY OF VIETNAMESE DESIGN

When do you visit Vietnam? A trip to Vietnam is best planned well in advance, as the country has three climate zones. Depending on the region you want to visit (the North, Central-Vietnam or the South), the best travel time varies from October to June. During our summer months (July, August and September) it is warm and rainy in all regions. If you want to travel around the entire country, February-March is the best period to do so. However, Amanoi has a microclimate, guaranteeing a perfect stay from February to October. This truly is an indispensable destination for everyone parting for Vietnam! IMAGICASA | 165

HOTEL

Text: Caroline Meeusen

LE TOINY HOTEL

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Â© PITER

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COASTAL CHIC PRIVATE PARADISE

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Hotel Le Toiny on the paradisiacal island of Saint Barths exudes the atmosphere of its white sandy beaches and clear blue sea. Due to the privacy, serenity, private pool and sunny terrace you hardly want to leave your private villa, until you are seduced by the top-notch restaurant, the beach club, Serenity Spa and the many other facilities of this luxury beach resort. Exclusivity and privacy define Hotel Le Toiny.

ÂŠ 1&2: PITER - 3: YSANDAK

his luxury hotel opened almost thirty years ago on the island of Saint-BarthĂŠlemy, better known as Saint Barths. In 2015 it came into the hands of the current owners Charlie and Mandie Ver Nicoll who renovated it. Now, the hotel has 22 luxury suites, eight of which are brand new: four Spirit Suites, three Duplex Spirit Suites and La Villa. Although there are 22 villas, this beautiful stay offers a lot of privacy. Each private villa has its own swimming pool and terrace. The suites are situated on a gentle slope, so you look out over the Bay of Toiny and the beautiful blue Caribbean Sea. In addition to these private facilities, Le Toiny also has many communal facilities to offer, such as the Le Toiny Beach Club, a top restaurant considered the best of Saint Barths, a private beach at the bottom of the hotel, a spa, fitness and a library in the reception. You can rent a car to explore the island and even use a babysitting service. The exclusive hotel is situated in a quiet part of the island that has not yet been developed and where the natural surroundings with beautiful, lush vegetation are still intact. Thanks to its beautiful location and luxurious feel there are also events hosted such as weddings and they will be happy to welcome you back to celebrate your honeymoon or anniversary.

COASTAL CHIC BY OSBORN INTERIORS The surroundings with gorgeous beaches and the sea were integrated into the beautiful hotel with a coastal chic interior by interior designer Bee Osborn. She studied at the Inchbald School of Design and lives with her husband, who is an art dealer, and two daughters in London. Osborn has been working on residential and commercial projects for twenty years. With her studio Osborn Interiors she creates beautiful spaces where life and relaxation play central parts. In every project, be it a home, a luxury room or a boutique hotel, she shows her professional, creative and personal approach. Osborn draws inspiration from classical design and proportions, but always provides modern energy and uses a lot of light. She brought her style and vision to London, Hong Kong and Saint Tropez, but the designer is the most proud of her work in Saint Barths. She chose a soothing and soft atmosphere using blue, beige and white shades for Hotel Le Toiny. In this way she created a light, sophisticated whole that perfectly represents the ambiance of the island. One of her favourite pieces, which clearly refers to the sea, is the bar made of oyster shells with mother-of-pearl details. Every suite is also dressed in a soft, chic palette. Colours such as sandy beige, bright

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white and driftwood grey play the main role and bring in the iconic Saint Barths beaches. Osborn also added some daring patterns and bright colour touches throughout the hotel, such as blue and pink, to break through the neutral palette. Every private villa and the entire hotel are a true calm oasis of comfort and luxury with the Caribbean spirit.

there is also the nude Grand Saline beach. The choice is yours! Furthermore, you will find beautiful, lush nature, trendy beach bars, excellent restaurants and numerous activities such as scuba diving, sailing, tennis, water skiing, hiking, shopping and of course sunbathing.

MORE GLAMOROUS THAN EVER The hotel was damaged by hurricane Irma which stormed over the Caribbean in the summer of 2017, but on the 15th October 2018

regularly to check the colours and shades. She also added a few new touches to the hotel. The restaurant was completely rebuilt, but is “better and more glamorous than ever,” says Osborn. The showpiece is now a wall of antique glass turtles. The new villas are even more beautiful with antique mirrors and higher ceilings. The new, more dramatic design provides the absolute wow factor, with the emphasis still on beautiful textures, fabrics and materials such as mother of pearl, oyster shells and wood.

it reopened after several renovations and new additions with as many as eight new suites. Once again, Bee Osborn contributed to the interior. Unfortunately during the storm, some valuable antique pieces were destroyed, but some were also saved or restored like the ceramic artwork made on a Belgian linen canvas that will remain in the reception.

PARADISE ISLAND Christopher Columbus added Saint Barths to his list of discoveries more than five centuries ago. Today, it is a part of France as an overseas community and it is a popular holiday destination for residents of the mainland of France and for the rest of Europe and North America.

temperatures fluctuate around 27°C and in summer (from June to November) temperatures become warmer and can climb up to 32°C. So whether you want to go there on summer holidays or escape our cold winter, the tropical island is an ideal destination all year round.

Her favourite piece, the legendary oyster bar, also had to be remade, shell by shell. An intensive job, because her supplier on the English coast picked up each shell with his own hands. Bee herself also travelled there

You can explore the island on foot or by car. Beach lovers who prefer to relax also have plenty of choice. There are sixteen different beaches, including the isolated Colombier Beach. For those who prefer total freedom,

Temperatures are always summery at Saint Barths. The island does not really have four seasons, but rather two: the dry ‘winter’ season and the warmer ‘summer’ season. In winter (from December to May)

At Hotel Le Toiny Saint Barths you can enjoy sun-drenched white beaches, clear blue water, delicious gastronomy and an exclusive luxury stay where privacy, luxury and comfort are central. A perfect cocktail for your next trip according to Imagicasa. IMAGICASA | 171

HOTEL

Text: Eline De Mont

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FIVE MEANS LIFE

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With a philosophy based on the five elements – earth, water, fire, air and consciousness – a stay in FIVE Palm Jumeirah is an all-encompassing experience where your every need is catered to. The brand-new hotel in Dubai presents ‘time’ as the highest form of luxury by ensuring that all guests are taken care of no matter the time of day, or night, and whether this is in the suite, in one of the restaurants or during the many unforgettable activities.

alm Jumeirah is one of the many artificial peninsulas and islands off the coast of Dubai in the United Arab Emirates. It is also part of the three Palm Islands, but to this day it is the only one that is completed and inhabited. As the name suggests, the archipelago is shaped like a palm tree. It consists of a trunk with mainly hotels and various commercial spaces, sixteen fronds on which you can almost exclusively find luxurious private residences and a circular breakwater, also filled with various monumental leisure and entertainment centres, which surrounds the whole. In the spring of 2018, Palm Jumeirah saw the addition of yet another grand hotel: FIVE. This luxurious resort is one of the first you see when you leave the mainland and cross over to the artificial island. But as a guest residing at FIVE, you might not be left with much time to visit the rest of Dubai. Not only the suites and residences, but also the many bars, restaurants and wellness facilities ensure that you’ll find an activity to occupy yourself with at any time of the day or night. LIFE ACCORDING TO FIVE It is undoubtedly the philosophy of every hotel, large or small, to do everything in their power to give guests an unforgettable experience. Some do this by focusing on relaxation in the form of wellness, others by letting the culinary experience take precedence or by organizing exciting outdoor activities. The newest member of the FIVE Hotels & Resorts family on the artificial island of Palm Jumeirah does so by addressing all aspects of life. Their slogan ‘Live Life. Live Five’ is something you can take to heart. Not only do all 468 rooms, suites and residences on the grounds offer unparalleled luxury and 174 | IMAGICASA

comfort, but every detail of the hotel was tailormade. Modern design and world-class technology also guarantee a carefree stay. Thanks to the five aspects in their philosophy, FIVE meets all your wishes and needs. EARTH | REVIVE The hotel offers the grounds, the space to relax. FIVE ensures that every visitor leaves this place completely revived and inspired, ready to face the whole world once again. What certainly contributes to this is the impeccable service, but it is above all the extensive spa and wellness which can fully recharge your batteries. You can choose from various types of massages (Swedish, Thai, aromatherapy, hot stone, ...) and facial and body treatments or relax in a traditional Turkish hammam. Working on your body can be done in the gym that is open 24 hours a day, where you can do yoga, HIIT (high intensity interval training) and circuit sessions under supervision if you wish. WATER | FUN FIVE Palm Jumeirah is a destination like no other. And during your well-deserved holiday, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll undoubtedly want to leave those daily challenges and workload far behind. You can do that here in one of the three restaurants, seven lounges and bars or three cafes. Combine a delicious meal or drink with the magnificent view of the Arabian Gulf, an afternoon on the private beach or a dip in the heavenly blue sea and all your worries will soon be forgotten.

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FIRE | ENERGY Want to add some fire to your stay and feel the energy? Then it’s time to hit the dance floor. Because even to experience Dubai’s vibrant nightlife, you don’t have to leave the hotel. The Penthouse, a rooftop bar with two pools, is the place to be every evening with themed activities like Rewind Wednesday, Skyline Thursdays with DJ Pascal and a Ladies Night every Tuesday. AIR | FREEDOM Although it is clear by now that your every need is truly catered for at this hotel and that you can count on unforgettable experiences 24/7, you are of course free to do whatever you want. FIVE encourages guests to make the most of their stay and pursue a sense of 176 | IMAGICASA

supreme freedom during their vacation, not only by using the facilities on the estate, but also by exploring the rest of the palm island and the dynamic city of Dubai. CONSCIOUSNESS | CARING In addition to these four basic elements, FIVE Palm Jumeirah in Dubai also adds a fifth element to its philosophy. The luxury hotel and resort does everything it can to pamper its guests and improve their lives and extends this care to other visitors, employees and in particular some charities. FIVE works with a number of charitable organizations that mainly work with children, making an even greater contribution to improving human lives.

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ART

Text: Eline De Mont

THE FUTURE OF ART Both Gallery Sofie Van de Velde and PLUS-ONE Gallery recently opened a second location on Nieuw Zuid. What’s more, they did this together, creating a unique and future-oriented place where art becomes a true experience. The idea behind this collaboration, the choice of this location and what this means for both galleries, we found out in a conversation with Sofie Van de Velde and Jason Poirier dit Caulier.

n Antwerp, the new place to be for art lovers is undoubtedly Nieuw Zuid, Triple Living’s innovative real estate project. The site aims to be an example for sustainable living and working, now and in the future. The property developer also takes on the role of curator and the company brings residents and visitors – and now also the readers of Imagicasa magazine – into contact with the inspiring art collections and cultural initiatives of Gallery Sofie Van de Velde and PLUS-ONE Gallery. We sat down with the inspirers behind these galleries and asked about their vision of the future. “Nieuw Zuid is for us the symbol of a beginning of a new era,” Sofie Van de Velde says with great enthusiasm. “We are fortunate to be able to help build this wonderful world, in dialogue with Triple Living. It is a unique place.”

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1. JENNY BROSINSKI THERE WERE NO LIES BETWEEN ME AND YOU, 2017 OIL, DIRT & WATER ON CANVAS 205 X 195 CM

GALLERY SOFIE VAN DE VELDE Five years ago, Sofie Van de Velde opened her art gallery. An obvious career choice when you know she grew up in her father’s gallery, wellknown art dealer Ronny Van de Velde. He taught her what it means to be passionately involved in art, but still, as a young woman in her twenties, she suddenly felt the need to venture out and try to understand the world around her even better. “I wanted to add something to the world. [...] With an eye on the future.” For a few years, she worked as a pedagogue with people living in poverty and she did group coachings. That background still plays a role in the way she runs her gallery now. Cooperation, support and networking are very important to Sofie and determine her relationship with the artists she represents.

2. JENNY BROSINSKI ITâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S BEEN DAYS NOW, 2017 OIL & SRPAY PAINT, COAL & DIRT ON CANVAS 60 X 70 CM

This inspiring approach recently won her gallery the Innovation and Creativity Award during the annual art fair Art Basel. Sofie sees the award primarily as a recognition for the general sector, which is not well known: “The profession of gallerist is a beautiful, but not well known profession. It involves a lot more than people think.” The fact that she is now opening a second establishment in the middle of a new residential site will undoubtedly make art even more accessible to the community. Jason Poirier dit Caulier of PLUS-ONE Gallery testifies to that: “Moreover, Nieuw Zuid is not just another development, but an architecturally beautiful piece of new town where architecture and, by extension, art are key elements.” PLUS-ONE GALLERY Jason’s passion for art also goes back to his childhood. In the 1970s, his father owned X-ONE gallery in ‘t Zuid and, according to Jason, he was “a gallery owner who liked to be among artists”. With the same attitude he started his own gallery in 2015. Jason tells us, however, that he played with this idea from the age of 18, but soon realised – despite his degree in Economics – that it was not an easy business. He first started a company in communication and graphic design, which, many years later, eventually led him to take the step towards opening a gallery after all. Just like Sofie Van de Velde, Jason still has a unique vision of the

way in which he collaborates with artists: “Some of them are permanently represented by us, we work very actively with them on the growth of their practice. For others we share the representation with fellow galleries in Belgium or abroad.” It is really important to him that there is a personal connection between the gallery and the artist. According to Jason, having his gallery become so successful in only a short period of time is due to the fact that he is always open to collaborations and that he goes for it full-time and with all his heart. Sofie Van de Velde also plays a role in this. “We both stand in a similar way in this fascinating yet hard art world,” says Jason. “There is a fundamental belief in cooperation and openness that makes us want to make a difference.” NIEUW ZUID With the opening of a shared art space in Nieuw Zuid, the two galleries want to evolve even further. The environment already offers sufficient inspiration for an innovative and future-oriented approach. Nieuw Zuid is Triple Living’s answer to growing demographics and an increasing demand for green space in the big city. Sofie Van de Velde also sees many similar changes in the art world: “Both Jason and I grew up in the art world. We both saw how wonderful it is, but also how competitive it can be sometimes. We want to tackle this, but in our own, new way.” The two galleries

“THERE IS A FUNDAMENTAL BELIEF IN COOPERATION AND OPENNESS THAT MAKES US WANT TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE” 180 | IMAGICASA

Â© CREDITS

3. GOMMAAR GILLIAMS UNTITLED (REMEMBER ME SERIES), 2018 OIL, OIL STICK, ACRYLIC, LACQUER, GLUE, PAPER, CRAYON ON CANVAS 200 X 150 CM UNIQUE

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now share a physical reception and also work together behind the scenes. Costs, network and information are efficiently shared. The location is also close to Antwerp’s biggest museums, the city centre and is easily accessible for visitors and collectors from Brussels, East and West Flanders. “People find their way to our gallery and also get to know this new world,” says Sofie. The artists exhibited here are mainly contemporary artists with international prestige, but who are not yet wellknown in Belgium. In addition, 20th-century works are also included in the collection to prove that they are still relevant. Jason adds: “It’s also about more than just beautiful pictures; anyone who looks beyond the picture can discover with us an exciting world of an artist and his practice.” Both Jason and Sofie therefore introduce us here to an artist who currently stands out for them. The pictures inclued in this article are by the German Jenny Brosinksi and the Belgian Gommaar Gilliams. Their work fits in perfectly with the philosophy of the two galleries – and that of Nieuw Zuid – to meet the challenges of art in this modern society. JENNY BROSINKSKI With PLUS-ONE Gallery, Jason Poirier dit Caulier focuses on artists he believes in for the long term. He himself does not want to admit it immediately, but it’s safe to conclude that these names certainly make an interesting investment. One of these artists is Jenny Brosinski (°1984), whose process-oriented work is already regularly requested by international exhibitions. Her minimalist, abstract paintings are characterized by materiality, spontaneity and the idea of reduction or deconstruction. As a spectator you can literally see which actions Brosinkski has performed on the canvas and how she interacts with the cotton or linen. The openness in her work appeals the viewer enormously. It is a very contemporary idea with which she wants to elicit a deeper and even more emotional reaction from the audience. Brosinski lives and works in Berlin, but in Belgium and together with several galleries abroad Jason also wants to give her work the place it deserves on an international level.

4. JENNY BROSINSKI COMMAND ME TO BE WELL, 2015 OIL AND SPRAY PAINT ON WASHED CANVAS 155 X 140 CM 5. JENNY BROSINSKI I WISH NOTHING BUT THE BEST FOR YOU, 2017 OIL & CHARCOAL ON CANVAS 205 X 195 CM

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6. GOMMAAR GILLIAMS UNTITLED (REMEMBER ME SERIES), 2018 OIL, OIL STICK, ACRYLIC, LACQUER, GLUE, PAPER, CRAYON ON CANVAS 200 X 150 CM UNIQUE

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7. GOMMAAR GILLIAMS UNTITLED (THE BLANKET SERIES), 2018 PAINTED AND SEWN FABRICS, FIBERFILL 285 X 220 CM UNIQUE

GOMMAAR GILLIAMS Both in Belgium and internationally Gommaar Gilliams (°1982) is represented by Gallery Sofie Van de Velde, soon you will even be able to spot his work in Scandinavia. That certainly makes him interesting, although for Sofie the feeling that the work gives her is of great importance. “An artist must add something to what was,” she explains. And Gilliams is such a person. He also has a good focus in his work. He is enormously passion driven and therefore keeps 184 | IMAGICASA

“AN ARTIST MUST ADD SOMETHING TO WHAT WAS.”

moving, keeps adding something to the world. Just like in Jenny Brosinski’s work, the creative process and actions are very important to Gommaar Gilliams. He starts from figurative images and processes them in such an intuitive way that the result is almost unrecognisable. We do see a sense of longing in it, perhaps for an even more beautiful world? That is why his work can be fully appreciated in Nieuw Zuid, which stands for sustainable urban development.

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ART

Text: Jules Maeyens

When Jean-Michel Basquiat was asked to define his art, he replied “royalty, heroism and the streets” without hesitation. This is also the vision of the work ‘Flexible’ from 1984. In many ways, this work of art is the sum of these three central themes. The figure that Basquiat represents here is a tribal king. His elevated attitude, with his interlocking arms above his head, radiates trust and authority. These are the characteristics of his heroism. He even appears to crown himself. The nature of this image and the way this particular piece came to life, take us back to the background and early life of the artist, living in the streets of Manhattan.

ften named one of the most famous American artists of all time, Jean-Michel Basquiat first gained fame as a subversive graffiti artist and street poet in the late 1970s. With his old school friend and fellow-artist Al Diaz, he operated under the pseudonym SAMO (a graffiti tag accompanied with the copyright symbol) and decorated the city’s deserted walls with his unique mix of enigmatic symbols, icons and aphorisms. Like an insatiable self-taught man, Basquiat started to direct his extraordinary talent towards painting and drawing

in 1980, at the age of 22. His powerful works brilliantly captured the eighties zeitgeist of the New York underground scene and sent Basquiat on a dazzling rise to international stardom. A journey which was prematurely brought to a stop by his death in 1988. Basquiat’s iconoclastic oeuvre revolves almost exclusively around the human figure. By making use of the creative potential of free association and experiences from the past, he created deeply personal, often autobiographical, images. He draws inspiration extensively from various areas such as urban street

culture, music, poetry, Christian iconography, African-American and Aztec cultural histories and a wide range of art historical sources. FROM THE STREETS TO THE STUDIO After opening his exhibition at the Larry Gagosian Gallery in West Hollywood in early March 1983, Jean-Michel Basquiat returned to New York where he pretty much immediately went on to complete some of – what were to become – his most important paintings, including ‘Notary’, ‘The Nile’, ‘In Italian’ and ‘Mitchell Crew’. Later that year, IMAGICASA | 187

Private Collection, Courtesy Galerie Enrico Navarra Tutti-image. Bertrand Huet

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Untitled, 1982

he returned to Los Angeles, which provided him with a buffer against the increasingly challenging New York art scene. With his return to Los Angeles, Basquiat opened his own studio in Market Street, Venice. Again in the mansion of Larry Gagosian where he had worked before. Basquiat worked at a location just a stone’s throw from the beach, but he preferred to avoid the constant stream of people on the promenade. He commuted daily from the L’Hermitage Hotel in West Hollywood to his studio, where he would arrive at noon and would work until deep into the night or even the next day. The back door of this studio led to a small courtyard, which was enclosed by

an eight-metre-high, worn-out, slatted fence. One night, while taking a much-needed break, the artist was scared up by a homeless man who had somehow ended up behind the fence. This experience had a strong influence on the artist that he decided to remove the wooden fence, resulting in the patio actually belonging to the streets of Venice again. Basquiat would no longer have a private patio, but he would also no longer have to be afraid of someone entering or even sleeping in his backyard and disturbing his privacy. After his plan to remove the wooden screen, he ordered his assistants to bring the deconstructed fence into the studio. After a day or two, the slats began to see new life. The

longer sections of the fence serve as vertical support points on the ground. The fence was transformed into a new, unique foundation for a strong image. In Venice, about 5,000 km away from the walls of Manhattan, Basquiat had once again found the means to bring the streets into his studio. KING OF THE AUCTION HOUSE What Basquiat unfortunately never got to experience during his short life and career was the worldwide success of his work in auction houses. In the spring of 2018, ‘Flexible’ raised over $45 million at a large auction at Phillips New York. That number was quite a surprise, especially when knowing that this was more than double the estimated value. IMAGICASA | 189

And that’s not all. Last year a piece from 1982 by Jean-Michel Basquiat was sold for almost $110,5 million (about €96 million) during an art auction at Sotheby’s, which also saw contemporary works by Roy Lichtenstein, Cy Twombly and others go under the hammer. These works didn’t raise nearly that much and this sale doubled the previous record of the sale of one of Basquiat’s works. As a result, ‘Untitled’ joined the very short list of works that were sold for more than $100 million. This sale also broke the record for the most expensive work of an African-American artist and is the first work made after 1980 that raised more than 100 million dollars. BIOGRAPHY Jean-Michel Basquiat was an American neo-expressionist and graffiti artist. He is of Haitian and Porto Rican descent. His naive style with elements from his own experience is very expressive and colourful and painted with great freedom. Behind the apparent triviality, chaos and speed with which the works seem to have been painted, however, many symbols can be found. That is where the greatest strength of Basquiat’s work lies: the shapes and colours catch your eye and the subtly visible symbolism holds on to your attention. With his unique oeuvre, Basquiat was the first African-American painter to gain world fame. After his first exhibition, he was

A NAIVE AND EXPRESSIVE STYLE FULL OF ELEMENTS FROM HIS OWN EXPERIENCE immediately struck with great success and he could count many great artists among his circle of friends. He had a brief relationship with Madonna and for a while worked with his great example Andy Warhol. The painting ‘Dos Cabezas’ from 1982 is an ode to their first encounter. And the dark side of his success? The drugs that were part of this artistic lifestyle. Basquiat died of an overdose at a very young age. Fortunately, his artworks will live forever!

‘FONDATION LOUIS VUITTON’| OCT. 3, 2018 – JAN. 14, 2019 This autumn the Fondation Louis Vuitton in Paris is organizing an exhibition of the work of Jean-Michel Basquiat in combination with that of another 20th-century artist who died in his 28th year on earth: the Austrian painter Egon Schiele. Both artists had a great passion for life and their work is characterized by a certain fleetingness and intensity. www.fondationlouisvuitton.fr All Works © Estate of Jean-Michel Basquiat. Licensed by Artestar, New York.

Untitled, 1982 - Private Collection

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DESIGN - CARS

Text: Jules Maeyens

THE NEW LAMBORGHINI URUS

Automobili Lamborghini launched the first Super Sports Utility Vehicle which immediately creates a new niche in the luxury segment by setting the standard in terms of power, performance and driving dynamics. Its design, luxury and everyday usability are unrivalled. 194 | IMAGICASA

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or the Lamborghini Urus a sophisticated approach is used, based on a fusion of Lamborghini-DNA with the most versatile vehicle type of all: the SUV. The Urus lifts the SUV to a level that was previously unattainable: the level of the super-SUV. In terms of design, performance, driving dynamics and driving pleasure, it’s a true Lamborghini, which is also suitable for everyday use in many driving conditions,” says Stefano Domenicali, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Automobili Lamborghini. “As a performance car, the Urus fits perfectly into the Lamborghini family. It is the culmination of intensive development and advanced expertise to create a new ‘bull breed’: a super SUV that exceeds all expectations and opens the door to new opportunities for both the brand and its customers.” The Urus is equipped with a 4.0 V8 bi-turbo engine that delivers 650 hp at 6,000 rpm (limiter at 6,800 rpm) and already provides its maximum torque of 850 Nm from 2.250 rpm. At 162.7 hp/l and 3.38 kg/hp, the Urus attains one of the highest specific power ratings and the best power-to-weight ratio in its class. The Urus accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.6 seconds and from 0 to 200 km/h in 12.8 seconds. With a top speed of 305 km/h, it is the fastest SUV on the market. A VERSATILE PERSONALITY The Lamborghini Urus is a luxurious SUV as well as the most powerful of all, with the driving dynamics of a super sports car which the driver as well as the passengers can enjoy. Conform with the long tradition of Lamborghini, the name Urus finds its origins in the world of bullfighting. Urus, also known as Aurochs, is one of the great, wild ancestors of the cattle bull. The Spanish fighting bull, which has been bred over the last 500 years, is physically very similar to the Urus. Its coupé-like style with low belt line and dominant appearance in no way betrays its outstanding driving comfort, greater bottom freedom and luxurious interior

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with all the latest technology. The Urus is easy to drive in the city, offers maximum comfort over long distances, has the exciting driving dynamics of a super sports car on and off the track, and is versatile in a wide range of driving conditions thanks to its off-road capabilities. Furthermore, the Lamborghini Urus has a double personality: it is multidimensional. It can be as sporty or elegantly dressed as the driver likes and it lends itself to daily luxury driving as it does to providing the sensations of a super sports car.

A 360-degree approach to the engine, exhaust and undercarriage ensures daily usability with less unwanted mechanical noise without losing sight of the emotional aspect of driving a Lamborghini or the inimitable sound of a Lamborghini. The V8 engine was calibrated to make the Urus sound and drive differently according to the driving mode selected via the Tamburo. In STRADA mode, it discretely and conveniently produces only low-frequency sounds which

Lamborghini heritage. In any case, the Urus was given the same extraordinary profile ratios as the super sports cars of the brand: 2/3 bodywork, 1/3 window surface. Furthermore, the Urus is a Lamborghini which offers ample space for five occupants. Its short overhanging of the body shapes its power, its strength, its dynamic, assertive character and its dominant appearance. The impressive front of the Urus highlights the fact that the engine is located in the front, under the curved bonnet that clearly refers to the Miura and Aventador. Further accents on the bonnet are the diagonal folding lines, which were first seen on the Countach and which are so typical of Lamborghini. The pronounced and low front is accentuated by impressive front wings: The Urus is clearly the most powerful SUV on the market. The large air scoops with hexagonal elements are connected to each other via a low front spoiler, which highlights the carâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s aerodynamic efficiency and exceptional performance even more. The headlights are slim and very sporty, stand horizontally and their LED lights form the familiar Y.

THE WORLDâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S FASTEST BULL

contrast with the more sporty and exciting sounds in CORSA. An especially developed exhaust system also allows the volume to depend on the speed: when accelerating heavily, the Urus delivers a more gurgling, sporty sound and feedback from the undercarriage. BODYWORK DESIGN AND AERODYNAMIC OPTIMISATION The Urus is undeniably a Lamborghini that borrowed stylistic elements from both the LM002 and the super sports cars that are an integral part of the

Every surface of the Urus indisputably contributes to its aerodynamic talent and personality as a Lamborghini super sports car. Shape and function go hand in hand within the design of Lamborghini: after all, each panel contributes to the total air resistance coefficient. The front splitter and spacious air scoops, together with the many covered parts of the aerodynamically efficient bottom plate, ensure optimal air flow. Aerodynamic fins on the outside of the rear windows, the floating rear wing, the integrated rear spoiler and spoiler lip help to reduce air resistance. An advanced solution for the streamlining of NACA-cooled wheel arches ensures better cooling of the front brakes and thus increased driving dynamics. An efficient streamlining system also contributes to the internal acoustics and thus the driving comfort of the Urus, but also to a lower consumption and emission, while the higher downward pressure ensures greater stability, safety and driving dynamics.

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TECHNICAL DETAILS

THE INTERIOR OF THE URUS

The Urus is a luxurious SUV as well as the most powerful of its kind, with the driving dynamics of a super sports car that all occupants can enjoy. The interior design and finish reflect the bodywork in which they combine design, colour setting and individual decoration. The Urus is clearly a Lamborghini, inside and out, but with a sporty and at the same time luxurious decoration and finish. Its long wheelbase of 3.003 mm and the low

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seating position of the occupants create a feeling of comfort and an exceptionally spacious interior. The luxury and space offered to each occupant is guaranteed in the Urus by seats especially designed for the super SUV. The Urus exudes luxurious Italian style and craftsmanship. Its ergonomic cabin is filled with high quality materials, including the finest leather, alcantara, aluminium, carbon fibre and wood.

SIZES AND WEIGHT Length: Width: Height: Wheelbase: Tank volume: Weight:

5.112 mm 2.181 mm (incl mirrors) 1.638 mm 3.003 mm 85 l 2.200 kg

WHEELS 21” with 285/45 ZR21 tires front and 315/40 ZR21 rear PROPULSION Type: Transmission:

four-wheel drive 8-speed automatic with Torsion of centre differential

ENGINE Type: Content: Power: Torque:

4.0 litres V8 twin-turbo 3.996 cc 650hp @ 6.000 rpm 850 Nm @ 2.250-4.500 rpm

PRESTATIONS Accelleration: Brakes: Top speed: Avg. Consumption:

0-100 km/h in 3,6 s 100-0 km/h in 33,7 meters 305 km/h 12,3 l / 100km

PRICE

From € 208.725

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CLASSIC CARS

FERRARI

Text: Jules Maeyens

DAYTONA

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The first Ferrari supercar. What makes it so special for insiders in the automotive world? Originally designed as the ‘Ferrari 365 GTB/4’, the Ferrari Daytona is a two-seat grand tourer produced between 1968 and 1973. It was first presented at the Paris Auto Salon in 1968 to replace the 275 GTB/4. Those who know the car, praise it the most. For example, this anonymous car enthusiast who travels all over Europe with his Daytona: “Devilishly beautiful with stunning proportions that reset your aesthetic senses, then revitalise them with their subtle and competent details”.

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hen they see a Ferrari 365 GTS/4, most people immediately think of the famous TV series from the 80s, Miami Vice, and how undercover agents Crockett and Tubbs were often involved in spectacular car chases in the drug environment. Actually, these stunts were done with converted Chevrolet Corvettes, but it’s true, the car speaks to your imagination and will give you the feeling of being the main character in your own posh and swanky action movie.

THE STORY OF DESIGNER LEONARDO FIORAVANTI “I designed the Daytona at home in my spare time in about a week,” says Fioravanti. In December 1966, he, as a young designer at Pininfarina, was praised for his drawings of the production variant of the Ferrari Dino. Today, he is the proud designer of eleven Ferraris and he accompanied eighteen others when he was director of the design studio Pininfarina Studi e Recerche. “I started thinking about replacing the 275 GTB/4 when I shared the steering wheel of one of them with Pier

Ugo Gobbato, Ferrari’s general manager, on a journey between Turin and Maranello. Back then it wasn’t the beautiful car we remember today. The lateral and rearward vision was disastrous, a major defect for a driver like me. The aerodynamics were not great and even the shape wasn’t perfect.” According to Fioravanti, the problem was that the 275 was still a young car and no one wanted to trouble themselves replacing it so quickly. But eventually, he was invited to the offices of Sergio Pininfarina and Renzo Carli

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first modern Ferrari with a central engine) could not compete with the traditional 365 GTB/4.” DAYTONA, WHAT’S IN A NAME The name ‘Daytona’ was actually given by the media rather than Ferrari who rarely mention it and refer to Daytona as an unofficial. However, the origin of the name can be called glorious to say the least. In February 1967, at the 24 Hours of Daytona, Ferrari won first, second and third place.

Daytona Beach is a city in Florida, USA, and is historically known for its hard-sand beach, which allows motorized vehicles to use it. This beach made Daytona Beach the Mecca for motor sports and specifically the old Daytona Beach Road Course, a race on the beach that was held for more than 50 years. This race was replaced in 1959 by the Daytona International Speedway. The city is also the

where they thought he was insane because neither Ferrari nor Pininfarina had a ‘new 275’ on their programme. “Still, they kept looking at the drawings and decided to show them to Enzo Ferrari in the end. A few days later, they took me with them because the Ferrari engineers did not respect the project. Then I knew it was good.”

The designers faced another challenge. Namely to keep the plexiglass caps on the headlights. “I was able to prove to the Italian homologation agency that the plexiglass, and the frame that held it in place, did not affect the rigidity of the headlights, which was confirmed by laboratory tests. In America, we had to adopt foldable models, because of the minimum height required for the headlights. At the time, I never thought I would talk about this car 50 years later, but I was sure it was a success when I saw it near the Ferrari Dino at the launch at the Paris Motor Show. In my opinion, the Dino (the 204 | IMAGICASA

“We skipped a step and went straight to scale model 1, an unusual procedure. Enzo Ferrari came to Cambiano in person to see it and for the first time, I was also invited to the meeting. He walked around slowly, looked at me and asked me whether I was satisfied. I was shocked: he was talking to me! I told him that we had to widen the tracks by at least 10 cm to prevent it from resembling an Opel, with too much wheel in the wheel housings. He looked at me with a spark in his eyes and said that I was allowed 6 cm. From that moment on, everything went so fast. I only used 5 out of 6 centimetres to be sure.”

headquarters of NASCAR (National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing). The Daytona International Speedway is a racing circuit located in Daytona Beach, Florida. It is a tri-oval circuit that was put into use in 1959 and, like the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, has a road circuit where part of the oval circuit is used in combination with a race course that is located within the oval. The circuit is 4 km long and has bends of no less than 31°. On the race track, the 24-hour Daytona race is held every year, one of the most important endurance races for sports cars. This race is part of the Rolex Sports Car Series. ROLEX DAYTONA AND PAUL NEWMAN Talking about Rolex, the legendary Rolex Daytona was also inspired by drivers and

racing enthusiasts, especially the iconic actor and racing pilot Paul Newman, who reportedly wore his Rolex Daytona daily from 1972 until his death in 2008. Thanks to Paul Newman, the Rolex Daytona is now a cultural phenomenon, and has become the backbone of the world of watch collectors. In October 2017, Newman’s watch was auctioned for a record amount of 17.8 million dollars (15,1 million euros). It is entirely appropriate that Newman — the man who can be credited primarily for creating today’s community of watch collectors — has shed a new light on the world of watches. A new generation of young collectors has entered the scene, seduced by the rarity and importance of certain vintage pieces. In short, in the shape of a Ferrari or a Rolex, the name Daytona will forever be identified with class, masculinity and adventure.

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Welcome to the 8th dimension Discover the new Audi Q8

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