First anniversary 2014 10 by Merci Magazine

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First Anniversary Issue

Special Feature Design Fiesta Event Inspiration HMV Ideal Restaurant Inspiration BiBo Career Inspiration Plug PR

Destination Inspiration Sanchaya Wine Inspiration Taylor vintage port merci magazine

CONTENTS First Anniversary Issue 2014

Editior’s letter

Fresh starter with merci editor

Editor’s pick

Everything about Rose Gold, Leather and Red

Special Inspiration

Paris Design Week

London Design Festival

Love who you want - Christian LaCroix

Its more then a chair - BoConcept

Home Inspiration

Fine Property from the late 1800s

The Classic of natural beauty

Shop Inspiration

HMV Reborn

Career Features

105

Secret to Success - Plug PR

Restaurant Inspiration

108

Mystery of BiBo

Destination Inspiration

118

Inspired by a deep Passion - The Sanchaya

Wine Inspiration

128

A Drink of Timeless, Elegance, Long-lived, Mellowness - Taylor’s Po

Receipe

136

Crabmeat in Golden Broth -Autumn Crab Feast at JIA Gourmet Din

138

Tarte aux pommes aka French apple tart

148

Edamame Peach white Corns Wrap with Kale Spinach sprouted Al

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ort

ning Room

lmonds Pesto

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merci team 4

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merci team Executive Director Peggy Lui

Administrative Director Elsa Yuen Lifestyle Editors Peggy Lui Jenny Ho Winnie Cheung Elsa Yuen Wine & Coffee Editor Winnie Ng Art Direction/Graphic Design Merci Design Workshop Contributors David Yick Kaman Yip Lewis Cheng Carmen Au Timo Pitkanen Martin Kiabunde Jenny Au Rita Law Sales & Marketing marketing@merci-magazine.com Marketing Executive: Halwin Yuen Halwin.yuen@merci-magazine.com For advertise Interested in advertising in merci? Simply email to advertising@merci-magazine.com. We will be contact you in shorty with our media kit and rates. For Press releases We are looking for more up-to-day press release. Please send your information in details to enquires@merci-magazine.com All right reserved 2014ÂŠ merci media

Editorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Letter Design is around every corner in September and October. Paris design week and the London Design Festival were held in September. In this issue, we are going to share the phenomenal yet practical design and inspirational issues that happened in both events. Besides featuring design, we were also bringing you to Paris â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a place named and made for romance, arts and architects. A gastronomic road trip in Paris is not to be missed!

I believe some of you might be curious about whether merci is a monthly or bi-monthly online magazine. Here we would like to answer the question for you. In this month, we should be celebrating our first anniversary; however, in place of a celebration, we have been trying to bring a big revolution. merci team is working hard on the improvement of the magazine and our website. We promise we are going to make all the improvements in the months to come and yes, we are a monthly magazine. Thank you for all your patience and support!

Enjoy your journey with us and see you next month!

Peggylui www.merci-magazine.com www.facebook.com/MerciMagazine merci magazine

merci Team members

Executive Director Peggy Lui

Administrative Director Elsa Yuen

Editor (Lifestyle) Jenny Ho

Editor (Lifestyle) Winnie Cheung

Editor (Wine & Coffee) Winnie Ng

Contributors

David Yick

Kaman Yip

Carmen Au

Timo Pitkanen

Director of Nicywedding and Nicywedding Design.

Yoga lover, foodie( mostly vegetarian), love traveling when have time, best way to learn local cuisine!

IT professional and ESL educator fascinated by art, architecture, culture and design.

Nordic extension of the Merci team, living in Finland but traveling frequently around the world.

Martin Kiabunde

Jenny Au

Lewis Cheng

Rita Law

Originally from Omaha, Nebraska, Martin Klabunde is a world renowned West African drumming teacher and performer. He also plays a beautiful harp called the adungu from East Africa. A prolific artist, Martin has published eight CDs and authored two books. He currently co-runs a global travel business with his wife and teaches African drumming classes in Tucson, Arizona.

Born and bred in Hong Kong, studied in Sydney and now returned homeland to pursue her aspiration in the field of art, design and marketing.

Worked nearly 10 years in the industry of Housewares, particularly in Stainless Steel and Wooden product.

A native of Hong Kong, Dr. Wing Man Rita Law is an adventure seeker. Upon receiving her doctoral degree in psychology, she and her husband performed music on indigenous African instruments around the United States. Today, Dr. Law continues to search for beauty and meaning in life. She currently co-runs a global travel business with her husband and conducts scientific research on mindfulness and self-compassion.

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Editor Picks

Lifestyle

Red Obsession EDITOR { Winnie Cheung }

LIBERTY LONDON

KATE SPADE

RED TRIM TELEPHONE £39.95

Castle Peak Chili Pepper Accent Plate US$17.00

KATE SPADE

CASTLE PEAK CHILI PEPPER MUG USD 16.00

DUALIT

Classic two-slice toaster £119.00 12

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Red Obession

Kate Spade

Leather Gloves Bow Gloves USD 128.00

MAISON MARTIN MARGIELA pochette purse USD 1,430.00

MARNI

A-LINE JERSEY DRESS UD 79,00

NARS

3.1 Phillip Lim For Nars Nail Polish - Hell Bent Product HKD 180

ACNE STUDIOS Grid scuba skirt HKD 3,720

SMYTHSON

‘LIVE, LOVE, LAUGH’ POCKET NOTEBOOK HKD 640.00

ATELIER COLOGNE

Cologne Absolue Silver Iris Set HKD2,520

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PANDORA’s “Shimmering Leaves” series sees the fragile beauty and natural symmetry of autumn’s leaves captured in precious metals and sparkling stones. This is a perfect illustration of autumn in glittering gemstones and artistic symmetry stems.

DELICATE GOLDEN Shimmering in noble gold and polished sterling silver, and studded with the brilliant lustre of cubic zirconia, the transient beauty of autumn’s swirling leaves is symbolised in a series of statement jewels. Cascades of sparkling cubic zirconia leaves adorn sterling silver stems on earrings, necklaces, charms and rings to let memories of change and wonder live on forever. MERCI EDITOR’S PICK

LEAVES SILVER STUD EARRINGS with cubic zirconia HKD 899

FANCY GOLDEN PAVÉ BALL Abstract pave silver charm with fancy golden coloured cubic zirconia HKD 699

SPARKLING LEAVES Leaves silver clip with cubic zirconia HKD 599

SPARKLING LEAVES OPENWORK Openwork leaves silver charm with cubic zirconia HKD 599

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PARIS DESIGN WEEK By: Peggy Lui Credit: Campaver/ Turnstyle Designs/ Porcelanosa/ Zenza/ Hkliving/ Mini Empire/ Toast Living White / Bread Wilkinson

For eight days, Paris becomes the world capital of design with more than 250 designers and 120 Paris venues. MAISON&OBJET Paris, it was held on September 5-9, 2014 at Parc des Expositions Paris Nord Villepinte. Paris Design Week The MAISON&OBJET show first came to be nearly twenty years ago in Paris. Organised by SAFI, a subsidiary of Ateliers d’Art de France and Reed Expositions France, it is the leading international assembly for professionals in the decor industries.

Setting the tone for an ‘architecture-oriented’ event, the show’s renewed presence in the front of Hall 7 is in conjunction with the introduction of the MAISON&OBJET | projets | Awards created to honour the best interior-design solutions and products presented at the show. We had selected some of the newest design to share with you.

One of the key characteristics of this new MAISON&OBJET PARIS is the unprecedented development of the MAISON&OBJET | projets | show, which becomes a driving force of the Luxury and Design sector at MAISON&OBJET PARIS in September, where it is closer to the MAISON&OBJET éditeurs and now! design à vivre shows. merci magazine

Campaver ULTIME Massive glass inertia-driven radiant heater Campaver ULTIME is a high-end radiant panel made of 8mm thick massive glass and very resistant to shocks. Its thermal features are appropriate to inertia and a perfect comfort wherever it is installed. To guarantee an excellent level of comfort in the room, the glass is assembled with two heating elements with distinct thermal features. The first one is a surface heating emitter which creates a smooth, direct and immediate radiant onto the whole surface and it covers most of the heating system.

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HOME DECOR Paris Design Week

This collection of glass radiant heaters with a new control box for a Smart ECOcontrol use. The radiators are interacting between them as well as with the users. This radiator is available in vivid colors to pastels and mirror finishes. Electric radiator, Campa Show : MAISON&OBJET projets http://www.campa.fr/index.php/fr/

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TAN LEATHER DOOR LEVERS BY TURNSTYLE DESIGNS Turnstyle Designs are established as one of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s foremost producers of design led architectural hardware. Using classic materials to create contemporary designs, Turnstyle handles can be found on some of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most prestigious projects including private homes, yachts, hotels and restaurants.

A new colour leather to our existing range. Tan leather. The leather can be applied to any of Turnstyle Designs leather ranges. Designer : Steve Roberts

http://www.turnstyledesigns.com/products/search/woven-leather merci magazine

HOME DECOR Paris Design Week

The Antique Collection PORCELANOSA Ceramic with typical hydraulic tile recreations from the beginning of the 20th century. This flooring and ceramic covering series was made by using the most advanced manufacturing technology. Porcelanosa is the ceramic wall and floor tile sectorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading manufacturer. It has a workforce of over 800 employees and has forged a worldwide reputation as a business group, thanks to its ongoing efforts in the field of research and quality. The group specializes in single-fired porous, stoneware, and porcelain wall and floor tiles in an extensive variety of formats and finishes. Its products stand out for their high-tech properties, innovative design and unbeatable quality. http://www.porcelanosa.com/gb/index.php

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Have a Zenzational day Elegant, intimate but nevertheless modern atmosphere with Zenza collection. Zenza became especially famous with its beautiful lamp collection and garnered the attention of designers and stylists worldwide. Nowadays there is great appreciation for the handcraftsmanship that is so characteristic of their collection. Handmade products have a â&#x20AC;&#x153;soulâ&#x20AC;? which gives them an extra value and beauty.

http://www.zenza.nl/about_us.html 22

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HOME DECOR Paris Design Week

Plexiglass Table Lamp by HKliving

HKliving was founded in the Netherlands in 2009. Our Dutch view of designing new products shows in the purity and originality of the items we design and develop. The new HKliving plexiglass lamp (18x18x48cm) is a contemporary piece that is guaranteed to make a statement, especially next to HKlivingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s beautiful, more rustic ceramic ware. Designer : Emiel Hetsen http://www.hkliving.nl/en-GB/home

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Plexiglass Table Lamp by HKliving

Playful, Beautiful, Versatile. There are many ways to describe the HKliving Lab Lamp measuring 13x13x17cm, which comes in a wide range of colours, as well as metal finishes. It is available as a pendant or with a switch & plug. Designer : Emiel Hetsen http://www.hkliving.nl/en-GB/home

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HOME DECOR Paris Design Week

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Building blocks

by MINI EMPIRE

These wooden blocks are made of fine Sycamore maple. 12 pieces of fun with 6 characteristic Mini Empire illustrations. Let it decorate your book shelf or use it to play with.Each block measures 4x4x4 cm. Comes in a beautiful wooden box. Mini Empire strives to create sustainable design- whether it is through supporting local craftsmanship and industries in production or creating timeless aesthetics that outlives seasonal trends. Their aim to transcend perceived borders, giving life to unisex products that can be appreciated by all ages, bringing both playfulness and style into your home. They are consciously work with Swedish manufacturers, organic material and water based, solvent free inks. By always putting quality in focus and aiming to always make the right choices for our environment. Designer: Jenny von Dรถbeln http://mini-empire.se

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HOME DECOR Paris Design Week

MU / Drinkware

by TOAST LIVING

MU collection combines wood and porcelain crafts to show the esthetics of craftsman. This series is simple and sophisticated. Made for daily use with 100% porcelain. It can bring you smooth and warm feeling from the texture of surface. TOAST LIVING CONCEPT Life is like a piece of toast. You can have it either in plain and simple way, or add different sauces to create plentiful flavors. Design is also like cooking; designers create enriching experiences or products from the most essential elements and ideas. In 2007 Summer, TOAST was born with this concept.Their design ideas all come from observations in daily life. Focusing on the practical aspects and the essential elements of objects, they create great experiences and lots of fun for their users. TOAST always run after fineness and balance, just like the Chinese words ”jun”: a condition of mellowness. In ordinary days, they hope to inspire people’s life with mellow products. TOAST for Life! http://www.toastliving.com merci magazine

Handpicked Designs by WHITBREAD WILKINSON

With so many bright, calming and rich colours to choose from, there is certainly a product to match every colour scheme. The PANTONE UNIVERSE™ colour matching system is used by designers in every industry to solve, match and identify colour. It is this unique tool that enables any colour to be accurately communicated regardless of geographical location, product or industry type. Whitbread Wilkinson have introduced PANTONE UNIVERSE™ to the consumer world through their design and manufacture of a colourful collection of products. It has been said that the PANTONE UNIVERSE™ Mug by Whitbread Wilkinson is the best selling mug in the world! 28

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HOME DECOR Paris Design Week

Designer: Whitbread Wilkinson Whitbread Wilkinson design and manufacture a variety of design led giftware in collaboration with giants of the industry such as PANTONE UNIVERSEâ&#x201E;˘ and Eames whilst also building their own brands. They are dedicated to innovative design solutions. Whitbread Wilkinson Design Partnerships include PANTONE UNIVERSEâ&#x201E;˘, National Gallery, London. EAMES and DISNEY

http://designedincolour.com merci magazine

Room numbers are placed on metal console tables in front of each door. These small tables are individually lit, spread out on the carpets of the corridor and designed with a chevron pattern as a way of accessorising this public passageway.

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The Sprit of Place By: Peggy Lui Photographs Courtesy Of: François Champsaur’s Hotel Vernet

Renovated by French interior designer François Champsaur, the Hotel Vernet celebrates its 100th anniversary in 2014 and enters the age of modernity. Owned by the Besse Signature family group, the Hotel Vernet is a veritable secret garden that maintains the tradition of great Parisian institutions alive by paying tribute to French elegance and savoir-faire. The Hotel Vernet invites visitors to come and explore this luxury townhouse. From the entrance hall to the rooms, the accuracy and precision of the hotels’ design engages in a dialogue with the spirit of the space and its history. The contrast between two different eras creates a dynamic and light-hearted energy. This subtle chemistry rejuvenates the atmosphere without unnecessary ostentation. François Champsaur, a passionate contemporary art collector, chose a set of drawings, original watercolors and engravings, creating the start of a collector’s home and reinforcing the private and intimate side of the entire hotel. At night, light plays with the hotel’s decorative elements and features the precision of the shades and richness of the textures, creating a beautiful candle-lit atmosphere.

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Large curved oak screens, used as architectural elements, lead the room towards the bathroom. The graphic style of the glass mosaic with its black and white geometrical lines is softened by the marble rugs underneath the washstands and bathtub. All of the bathroom fittings are made of solid brass that will contunue to shine over time.

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HOME DECOR The Sprit of Place

The statuesque bedside lamps with brass leaves match the headboards carved in low relief. The randomly shaped mirrow designed by Jean Michel Alberola is hung above a long white lacquered desk that incorporates a blue writing case. A paper watercolour lampshade covers the lamps, which completes the entrire furniture ensemble. A white extra large cotton chair bed, placed in front of the black and white striped organic cotton curtains by Pierre Frey, creates a warm and sophisticated setting.

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Bar 34

The unstructured Carrara marble bar is set up as a sculpture in front of a large folded copper screen. Together, this timeless design blends perfectly with the original red marble fireplace. In keeping with the finest tradition of painted ceilings, a fresco was painted by Jean-Michel Alberola on the ceiling to match the carpet, which was also designed by the artisit. The spirit of place gives this sapce remarkable elegance and modernity thanks to the blend of statuesque forms, contemporary art and indirect lighting outlining the shapes and colours.

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HOME DECOR FR\AME Restaurant

Restaurant The beautiful dining room is bathed in light under the monumental glass roof designed by Gustave Eiffel. Placed on an enormous carpet, two large half-circle green and blue benches face each other. The Kitchen is visible through a large bay window. Its discreet and continuous movement contrasts with the contemporary artwork that is beautifully hung on the walls and mirrors and appears to be stopped in time. To the back of the restaurant, a small goldencoloured lounge can accommodate approximately 10 guests. http://www.hotelvernet-paris.com merci magazine

collection tells a story Hamilton Conte Paris http://hamiltonconte.com

Hamilton Conte Paris is a high end furniture and home accessories brand. It draws inspiration from the diverse backgrounds and complementary talents of its two founders - Ross Hamilton Englisbe and Fabiรกn Pellegrinet Conte. Combining pragmatism and passionate creativity, both designers approach their craft with originality and warmth.

Devoted to artisanal production and attention to detail, their artistic approach takes inspiration from a variety of styles and cultures. They merge design movements from the 1950s and 1970s, the Americas and Scandinavia, and all with a touch of Parisian flair.

Each piece in the collection tells a story, and it is through their unique universe that Hamilton Conte imposes itself as an international design brand.

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Eclectic inspirations, a destinctive universe The key word for designer Fabian Pellegrinet Conte is ec-

Hamilton Conte brings together these different styles

lecticism. For him, this means an intelligent mixture of

throughout the range, while remaining firmly rooted in

objects, whether of different origins, materials, epochs

the present.

or styles. While avoiding conformism, Hamilton Conte cultivates an eclectic combination of materials: precious

In its ensemble, the Hamilton Conte collection manages

wood, resin, stone, metals such as cast iron, brass, alu-

to create visual and tactile diversity and a specific brand

minium... The brand particularly identifies with 20th-cen-

universe.

tury design movements, most notably the period from the 1950s to 1970s in the Americas and Scandinavia.

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HOME DECOR Hamilton Conte Paris

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Savoir-faire Hamilton Conte creations are the fruit of an alliance between designers and artisans, all of whom are passionate about their craft. Products are manufactured with great care and adapted to the individual needs of each client. Taking advantage of ancestral techniques of its production base in Portugal, Hamilton Conte unites design with craftsmanship. “For me, luxury today is about being able to work with craftsmen, taking the time to care about details as well as pleasure in doing so,” says Fabian Pellegrinet Conte.

The Collection The Hamilton Conte collection offers all elements of an interior space: furniture, seating, lighting, objets d’art…

The creations are an extension of the lives of the two founders and reflect their passion for storytelling. Some models, for example, carry the names of inspirational people while others are nods to anecdotes or places from their lives. “My father’s name was Enzo and he loved to take his cognac in a comfortable and enveloping chair. Our wing chair with the same name was designed bearing this memory in mind,” comments Fabian Pellegrinet Conte.

There is a story behind every creation and each client integrates this within his or her own story, just as much through personal affinity as through the choice of materials and finishings. 40

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HOME DECOR Hamilton Conte Paris

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LONDON DESIGN FESTIVAL The twelfth London Design Festival, which runs from Saturday 13 September until Sunday 21 September. Over 250 partners and 300 events celebrating the best in design will be participating, filling the city with a design buzz that is unique in the year. Our team has selected 2 major destination mis a must visit for you to explore the London Design Festival. By: Peggy Lui Credits: London Design Festival 2014, 13 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 21 September londondesignfestival.com

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“Design and creativity are embedded within our city’s DNA and critical to the future prosperity of London, as well as the whole country. In bringing together top design talent from across the world, the London Design Festival provides a snapshot of where we are now, but also importantly, it offers an insight into where we are going.” Festival provides a snapshot of where we are now The Mayor of London Boris Johnson

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The London Design Festival is renowned for its ‘Landmark Projects’. Set in iconic locations within the capital these demonstrate some of the most inventive ideas in design and have become the public face of the Festival. This year, the Festival is collaborating with Airbnb to bring a fascinating project to life in London’s Trafalgar Square. Airbnb is the world’s largest community-driven hospitality company. Whether it’s a chic urban loft, a stylish treehouse, or an artist’s garden retreat, with unique listings in 34,000 cities and 190 countries, travellers can feel at home wherever they go. ‘A Place Called Home’ brings together four highly acclaimed designers who have been invited to create their own interpretation of home. The four designers, Jasper Morrison, Patternity, Raw Edges and Studioilse will present a personal vision of a room which will intrigue and amuse visitors to Trafalgar Square. The four ‘homes’ will appear to be similar in construction from the outside though each will have its own individual exterior identity, hinting at the creative interiors which range from a room which expands and contracts to the home of a pigeon fancier. 44 merci magazine

HOME DECOR LONDON DESIGN FESTIVAL

TRAFALGAR SQUARE ‘A Place Called Home’ By Jasper Morrison, Patternity, Raw Edges and Studioilse

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LONDON DESIGN FESTIVAL AT THE V&A The London Design Festival continues its collaboration with the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading Museum of art and design, the Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A) which in 2013 saw audiences reach 97,403 for the nine day period of the Festival. As the central hub location for the London Design Festival for the sixth year, the V&A will again house a broad range of commissioned installations throughout the Museum as well as a packed programme of talks and workshops.

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HOME DECOR LONDON DESIGN FESTIVAL

DOUBLE SPACE FOR BMW - PRECISION & POETRY IN MOTION Designers Edward Barber OBE and Jay Osgerby OBE have collaborated with BMW to create a remarkable installation in the V&A’s Raphael Gallery. Sharing a fascination for the aesthetics of motion, aerospace, automotive and maritime engineering, Barber & Osgerby have designed ‘Double Space for BMW’, a kinetic sculpture that creates an immersive experience for the viewer. Two reflective structures are suspended in the centre of the gallery. The choreographed movement of the giant pieces reflect and distort the view of the Raphael Cartoons on display, the architecture of the room and the viewer’s perception of the space. Barber & Osgerby comment: “The dramatic scale and complexity of this commission makes it a real challenge and an amazing opportunity for us to further explore themes of movement and performance. We believe this collaboration with BMW will celebrate the paintings and the architecture by offering a totally new perspective on the world famous Raphael Gallery.” Ed Clark, Project Director at Arup, who are the engineering partner on the project, further summarised the challenges of installing in this unique space. “There is a purity and universality to the need for weight verses stiffness optimisation. An omnipresent and fundamental contradiction that dominates the engineering design of everything from cars, planes, bridges and buildings.” merci magazine

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100% Design th celebrates its 20 edition with an opening by Philippe Starck

Above (from left): Naomi Paul Studio Brieditis & Evans

Philippe Starck (©Jean-Baptiste Mondino)

As the driving force of creativity and commerce during London Design Festival, 100% Design were helded on September (1720), celebrating its 20th anniversary. International creator Philippe Starck were opened the show on 17 September, to coincide with the unveiling of Flexible Architecture, his new ceramic tile collection for Ceramica Sant’Agostinoon Capitol Designer Studio’s stand. 100% Design 2014 has also secured the presence of a range of leading names in the design and creative industry– from Heal’s and Vitra, to Jaime Hayon, El Ultimo Grito and Nina Tolstrup. This special edition, staged over 22,000 sqm within Earls Court London, were mark the show’s last appearance at this iconic venue before moving to Olympia London in 2015. As the biggest design event in the UK, 100% Design is always known for its leading position in commissioning thought-provoking editorial content, to question, inform and invigorate the design community. Since the show was first staged in a tent off King’s Road (London) in 1995, it has gone on to become the benchmark event for promoting design excellence and creativity, both within and outside the UK. Promising innovative content to reflect the key influences which have made London a global design capital, the 20th edition of 100% Design is set to celebrate the show’s overall contribution to the rise of British design in the last two decades, whilst reinforcing the importance, longevity and future of the show. Based upon the central curatorial theme, Serendipity, and supported by the lead creative, Design Kaleidoscope(left), this year’s 100% Design aims to express the opportunities created by the show-from collaborations, to projects and product launches. 100% Design 2014 will comprise four key industry sections - Interiors, Kitchens & Bathrooms, Workplace and Eco, Design & Build.

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interiors

Showing for the first time, Heal’s was launched the 2014

Swiss design maverick Vitra presented a variety of

edition of its Heal’s Discovers collection at 100% Design. In

new products from its Home Collection 2014, which

line with its long-standing commitment to discovering and

includes fresh, contemporary designs by Edward Bar-

nurturing young design talent, the UK furniture retailer will

ber and Jay Osgerby and Jasper Morrison, in addition

showcase the new work of this year’s winners at the show.

to a selection of carefully updated classic pieces. Pad

Exclusive to Heal’s, these include the Rickard stool by Phil

Home will showcase its latest wallpaper ranges in-

Luscombe and Josh South (Northumbria University), Mava

cluding the newly launched NLXL wallpaper series by

side table by Tom Parfitt (National School of Furniture), Turn

Studio Job, as well as a lighting range by Graypants.

furniture and lighting collection by Ester Comunello (Bucks

100% Design 2014 was also see a strong presence of

New University), and the sand cast stools by Sam Lloyd (Kingston University).

1882 Ltd

Weplight

Ebb & Flow

British craft makers. Cornwall-based glass art-

Argentina-based Weplight was showcase its

Polish handmade glass expert

ist Jo Downs was unveiled her new handmade

latest lighting collection using flexible wood

Baranska Design was present-

Shoaling Fish collection, while established

veneers, creating intriguing sculptural forms

ed its new Wave glass lamp,

pottery maker from Stoke-on-Trent, 1882 Ltd

and unparalleled aesthetic flair.

and Danish brand Ebb & Flow

– now led by Emily Johnson and her father

was launched its new Speak

Christopher - will host a UK debut of its new

Up! Table lamp inspired by an

ceramic range, Indigo Storm (below left) by

old-school stage microphone.

Faye Toogood and its latest Homemaker series by Eyal Burstein.

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HOME DECOR LONDON DESIGN FESTIVAL

DAVEY LIGHTING

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Piqu At 100% Design 2014, high-end kitchen specialist Piqu was launched a new furniture collection, Vinculum, and Poggenpohl brings its Pâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;7350 kitchen to the UK for the first time.

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HOME DECOR LONDON DESIGN FESTIVAL

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Love who you want Christian Lacroix By: Jenny Ho Photo courtesy by: Christian Lacroix | Vista Alegre

“Back in 1925, surrealist artists led by André Breton and Jacques Prévert invented the “cadavre exquis” game, in which one follows up on a painting without knowing what the previous artist has done. This very process inspired the Christian Lacroix Maison latest porcelain gift collection “Love who you want!” created in collaboration with the Vista Alegre manufacture. We took immense fun and pleasure in mixing and matching signature images from our Haute Couture collections, together with our present-day, more modern, collections. New characters thus saw the light, such as “Mister Tiger” or “Doña Jirafa”... Yet, plenty more still remain to be created for each coaster or magnet. Play around with the numerous elements at your disposal and come up with your own fancy characters. Now, for the maybe less creative minds amongst us, amusing “Mix and Match” characters are depicted, ready-made, on the vases and “secret boxes” of that playful collection!” Sacha Walckhoff, Creative Director at Maison Christian Lacroix.

www.christian-lacroix.com www. facebook.com/christianlacroix instagram: @lacroixofficiel www.myvistaalegre.com facebook.com/vistaalegreatlantis.pt instagram:@myvistaalegre merci magazine 55

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It’s more than a chair BoConcept

...it’s a concept. BoConcept believe that creating your own favourite chair is a matter of personal taste and comfort. Choose from many indivual designs and make them yours with a choice of more then 100 different fabrics and leathers. Some of their chairs even come with a choice of legs

Editors pick SCHELLY CHAIR Design by Anders Nørgaard from HKD7,745 Schelly chair with swivel function, the produt is available in fabrics and leathers.

BOSTON CHAIR Design by Henrik Pedersen from HKD14,890 Boston chair with swivel function. Also avaliable with tilt function, the products is available in fabrics and leathers.

www.BOCONCEPT.HK merci magazine

Fine property from the late 1800s. Fourth PitkĂ¤katu 2, LinnĂŠstaden is located in the courtyard with access to the lovely balcony in southwest orientation. The current owner has since 2008 allowed helrenovera apartment every room and surface to tip top condition and nothing has been left to chance. For example, it allowed rewire the electricity, is discretely machined into the walls. Stucco ceilings and ceiling medallions has been carefully washed and given new distemper. The old wooden floors in the original has been ground and hĂĽrdvaxoljats. The list is long and the result is phenomenal. This is a home that can withstand the scrutiny to the smallest detail.

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Three magnificent rooms in a row with more than 3,50 m to the roof and all the turn of the century details in exemplary condition. Large south balcony and upscale renovated kitchen and bathroom. Up to three possible bedroom. Extremely well-run association with fine property from the late 1800s. Welcome to a century-old dream of the ordinary. It offers accommodation for those with high demands in the form of 114 well-appointed square meters, located in a very nice property and well maintained compound. With three proportioned rooms in a row, separated by beautiful double doors and with a ceiling height of over 3.50 meters, is given here a grand impression. The exclusive renovated kitchen is in a classic style and the bathroom is also extremely tastefully renovated in timeless colors and materials. The apartment offers three possible bedrooms, one of which is located in the courtyard with access to the lovely balcony in southwest orientation.

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HOME DECOR Home Inspiration

The old pardรถrrarna gives the room character

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Three beautiful rooms in a row The current owner has since 2008 allowed helrenovera apartment every room and surface to tip top condition and nothing has been left to chance. For example, it allowed rewire the electricity of course, is discretely machined into the walls. Stucco ceilings and ceiling medallions has been carefully washed and given new distemper. The old wooden floors in the original has been ground and h책rdvaxoljats. The list is long and the result is phenomenal. This is a home that can withstand the scrutiny to the smallest detail.

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HOME DECOR Home Inspiration

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HOME DECOR Home Inspiration

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HOME DECOR Home Inspiration

Exclusive renovated kitchen from Lidhults

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HOME DECOR Home Inspiration

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HOME DECOR Home Inspiration

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Large wrought iron balcony in the courtyard facing south

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HOME DECOR Home Inspiration

Enquires: Alvhem Mäkleri & Interiör www.alvhemmakleri.in

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The classic of natural beauty Text: Peggy Lui

Photo: Jenny Ho

Meet Sarah Coates, the creative brand consultant of KPC Yarns, who designed a traditional, classy and friendly home in a rental apartment complex located in the heart of Hong Kong central district. When Sarah moved to Hong Kong about 2 years ago, she had lived in a number of cities, such as New York, Beijing and London. Her house is full of British style, with natural dark wooden floor. It is also furnished with intersperse pieces of crochets, such as coasters, blankets, cushions, storage baskets, doilies and rugs, which are all created by Sarah.

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HOME DECOR Home Inspiration

When we walked into Sarah’s house, there are 4 sofas in the living and dinning room; each corner is representing different inspiration and abundance of home. With the 1960’s greenery America sofa, mixing with grandmother’s handmade stitching cushions from Britain. It truly shows the deep sensations of family harmony. Another yellow sofa is near the dining area and close to the entrance. Yellow is the color of sunshine, associated with joy and happiness. It symbolizes a warm welcome for the family and guests.

Mostly all furniture in the house was bought from the countries where they had previously lived. Wood is one of the key elements. It represents nature and it goes well with all the crochets made by Sarah.

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â&#x20AC;&#x153;I love colors, I am not afraid of colors,â&#x20AC;? Sarah said.

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HOME DECOR Home Inspiration

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HOME DECOR Home Inspiration

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Home Office Her home office design is so original, which reflects the personalities in a beautiful way. Sarah spends most of the time in her office using KPC yarns to create all variety of projects. The inspirational mood board is the main core in the office, which keeps schedules, deadlines and inspiration in view and a quick way to personalize and get the creative juices flowing. With the modern industrial look of the cabinet, filled with all samples and sketches, we can feel her professionalism and personality. Home office could be stylish and fun at the same time! Believe it or not, we saw some Aliens (made by Mary from Belle Epoque) in her home office, hiding in the penholders, bookshelves and even yarns. I believe that it shows the abundance of creativity she is playing around in her office. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be afraid to using different colors for home dĂŠcor. You can use little details to make big differences in a place however it looks originally. Paint, furnishings and lighting are important but using and adding cozy crocheted details can change the mood of the environment and it could be fun!

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Kidâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Bedroom Perfect blend of handcrafts and patterns. Imagination. Truth be told by all objects created by Sarahâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s daugther. All books in the bookselves are a hidden gem that tells all her dreams and passions.

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HOME DECOR Home Inspiration

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HOME DECOR Home Inspiration

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Master Bedroom This spacious bedroom feels warm and welcoming. With the addition of traditional Chinese red colour, mixed with wooden furinture, it brings out the style of â&#x20AC;&#x153;East meets Westâ&#x20AC;?.

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HOME DECOR Home Inspiration

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Guest Room The guest room is decorated with traditional British style. The design is simple, clean but with a mix of vintage pieces and colleage of gemoetric crochet pieces. That could turn a neutral guest room into a more fun and cozy environment. merci magazine

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HOME DECOR Home Inspiration

The Kitchen

Sarahâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Kitchen is designed to use natural colors. Furnished with natural reclaimed oak cabinets and granite worktops with warm lighting. On the other side of countertop, Sarah made an open area to hold her collection of cookbooks and recipe magazines. merci magazine

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HOME DECOR Home Inspiration

White is the perfect colour for the laundry room

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HMV reborn Text: Jenny Ho/ Jenny Au

Photo: Jenny Ho

“HMV”, a name that has appeared in the industry over decades, has always been a commonly known entertainment destination. The brand’s new concept store, HMVideal, is launched inside the Hong Kong Central Entertainment Building. Two-storey with 15,980 square foot space where provides a true entertainment environment to families and friends, with café, art, music, movies, fashion, exhibitions, books, gadgets, and more.

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HMV chill As you step into the historical building and walk up under a ceiling mounted with LED lyrics displays, you will feel a surprising difference to the traditional HMV. The interior is bright and spacious, decorated with assorted text and graphical music elements. Wide range of books, journals, magazine, high-tech gadgets and trendy lifestyle products are displayed on shelves. HMV kafe will be your first stop to perch on to organize and plan your shopping. Some private areas are set and divided by transparent acrylic panels with etched lyrics. Tables are framed with vinyl; chairs, cushions and mugs are printed with singersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; portrait, lyrics and CD covers. The store is also furnished with indoor and outdoor performance stages for customers to enjoy occasional live music while sipping a cup of beverage.

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HOME DECOR SHOP INSPIRATION

Online meets Offline The store has adopted latest digital and mobile retail technologies to enhance customers’ experiences. Still remember how you plug in your own headphone and listen to the latest CDs in the old days? With the circular media booths, customers are provided with personal spaces to enjoy the latest music and movies’ trailers. You can also try out the Beacon’s low power Bluetooth location system in store. Through a mobile phone or tablet app, your preference, purchase history and tailored recommendation will be revealed at once. The app can efficiently save queuing time by simply making your purchase before picking up in store.

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HOME DECOR SHOP INSPIRATION

HMV - His Master’s Voice Moving up to the second level, there is a “store-in-store” vinyl shop called His Master’s Voice for Nipper and customers to trace the memory of the old days. The space is filled up with warm wooden flooring, clustered shelves, retro furniture, vintage record players and turntables and varieties of vinyl. It must be a vinyl lovers’ destination. If you are a newbie to vinyl, the staff - “music impassionados” are passionate to guide you to an enjoyable shopping experience.

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“HMVideal is our concept store and passion project – our vision for the future of entertainment in Hong Kong. We wanted to give Hong Kong-ers a home for their passion for music and entertainment and create a space that goes beyond retail. Our mission is to broaden the HMV horizons by creating a lifestyle space where passion for music and entertainment brings people together. We have created what we feel to be the ideal framework to revive this much-loved entertainment icon, making it fit for the demands of Hong Kong-ers and 21st Century.”, says HMVideal CEO Ivy Wong.

HMVideal 3/F & 4/F Entertainment Building, 30 Queen’s Road, Central, Hong Kong. +852 2739 0268 http://www.hmv.com.hk/ merci magazine

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to success

Interview: Peggy Lui

Text: Carmen Au

Photo: Jenny Ho

Lara Jefferies founded her own public relations agency PLUG PR at the age of 24 when many were still searching for the inroad to their first career. The native London PR maven decided to base her business in Hong Kong, the place where she spent her teenage years. Armed with fearless energy and confidence, Lara along with her â&#x20AC;&#x153;intrepeneursâ&#x20AC;? has molded PLUG into the red hot agency that it is today and given her clients access to the black book like no other. Here, she plugs us into her story and the secret to her success.

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How did your PR career start and what brought you back to Hong Kong? I have been working in PR ever since I graduated from university. My first job was with Darwell Smith Associates in London. I had fantastic clients including Tampax, Bernard Matthews, and 21st Century Fox. For personal and professional reasons, I came back to Hong Kong where I continued my career as the global PR manager of the beauty brand, Red Earth Cosmetics. After a year, I decided to launch PLUG PR. I have always loved Hong Kong and the opportunities and excitement it offer. It’s a terrific place for a startup because the infrastructure is made ready for a sustainable small business.

Why the name “PLUG”? To plug means “to promote” so it explains the type of work we do. It also conveys our agency‘s ability to plug into our clients, to understand and to extend our reach to them. In addition, to connect them to our network of abundant resources and our little black book of who’s who in town. What was it like starting your own agency at 24? It was challenging at first because I was looking and being so young. It took me a bit of time to gain the trust of potential clients. But for me, it has always been about the quality of work and at PLUG, the work spoke for itself. As soon as our first clients saw what we delivered, the age was no longer a factor. This said, starting a business at 24 had its advantages. You are quite fearless and you believe you can achieve anything. The huge amounts of energy and confidence that I had, helped PLUG take off.Are you a 24/7 person when it comes to work? 100

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How do you differentiate yourself from the competition? It’s definitely the people. We have a phenomenal team that is passionate and cares a great deal about the quality of work. I describe them as “intrepreneurs” because they see their careers at PLUG and are determined to grow with PLUG in the next phases of the company. We are also a young and energetic agency that has amazing team spirit and the ability to collaborate. It is not just the teams working together on accounts, there’s a lot cross-team collaboration and support. Ultimately, delivering remarkable results to remarkable clients. Choose one word to describe yourself. Intense. I would choose different words to describe different stages of my life but there is always an intensity about me which I put into my business. I am very focused and driven when it comes to success and I am passionate about the work I do.

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Are you a 24/7 person when it comes to work? I was definitely 24/7 at the beginning but my philosophy is to build a business that doesn’t rely on me anymore. If an operation relies solely on one person and that person is working 24/7 the whole time, it wouldn’t be sustainable in the future. So my focus now is to grow the business to work without me because that will be a very successful business. What is the best part of being an entrepreneur? Each day is completely different for an entrepreneur. You think you know what’s going to happen as you plan out your day but then you are met with unexpected opportunities and challenges as the day progresses. The most exciting part is to create something extraordinary every day. It is motivating to build a business in which I am very proud of. What is an entrepreneur’s biggest challenge? As an entrepreneur, you wear many hats. You are running the business; you are analyzing your accounts like an accountant; you are playing an HR role where you are managing people; and also I am in the PR role where I am manage clients. The different responsibilities demand a lot of time and energy but none of that has deterred me from doing something I love. Words of advice for aspiring entrepreneurs. You have to be prepared for a lot of hard work and sleepless nights as no one will do the work for you. So having a good support system is important. A business partner, parent, sibling, or significant other can be there for emotional support to get you through the tough times. What do you have installed for PLUG? We are actively getting the best people onboard globally to push the agency to the next level. We are also working on new projects such as the American health supplement brand Nature’s Bounty, the Japanese handbag brand RILCREED, the world’s largest travel agency Flight Centre, and the local matchmaker ANTEROS. Enquiries: http://www.plug-me.com merci magazine

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Mystery of Bibo Interview: Jenny Ho/ Peggy Lui Text: Jenny Ho & Jenny Au Photo: Jenny Ho Hollywood Road is a well-known area for antiques, arts and treasures. If you walk up from Ladder Street, you will discover an artistic corner with classic but trendy exterior decoration. This fascinating place with blue mosaic tiles, golden signage and entrance door, catch the eye from the neighborhood at Hollywood Road.

The mysterious space is called â&#x20AC;&#x153;Biboâ&#x20AC;? - a French fine dining restaurant.

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Dining in an Art museum As you entered the space, your will be mesmerized by the colourful wallpapers, sculptures, objects and artworks. The interior concept is derived from the fictional former regional headquarters of ‘Compagnie Générale Française de Tramways’ (CGFT) during 1930s, in the era of Art Deco. Brass industrial pipes, extensions, cables and lighting fixtures are interlocking at the ceiling. Stacked marble bar counter, fireplace and table top, oak flooring, arched ceiling corners and round edged stainless steel doors are featured throughout the entire space. Even business card and menus have taken inspiration from tram tickets and timetables. In fact, the man behind this project, Bibo, is a street artist who intended to create the space as headquarter for art and gastronomy.

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“AT THE CORE OF THE PROJECT IS AN ARTISTIC CONCEPT” SAYS BIBO.

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He housed contemporary and street artists’ artworks into one hub, like Banksy, Vhils, Invader, JonOne, Kaws, Stohead, JR, Mr. Brainwash, Jean-Michel Basquiat, Daniel Arsham, King of Kowloon, Takashi Murakami, Yayoi Kusama and many more. “At the core of the project is an artistic concept. I invited street artists from around the world to create installations directly on the walls, even before the design was finalised. Alcoves, doors, walls, ceilings have been used by the street artists as surfaces to express themselves. We wanted things to look slightly unfinished, but in an organic way. It makes the artists feel more at home,” says Bibo.

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Modern French cuisine Indeed, this is not only a museum or gallery but also a French fine dining restaurant. Unusual to any traditional French fine dining menu, Bibo offers tasting plates, serious eaters and desserts which guests are welcomed to share among friends and families.

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The restaurant menu is designed by Executive Chef Mutaro Balde, who has worked in three Michelin star restaurants including Alain Ducasse at the Plaza Athenee in Paris and L’Atelier de Joel Robuchon in London. The dishes truly manifested Balde’s passion and creativity, for instance ‘La Salade Vegetarienne‘, is a course of freshly picked figs, artichokes and asparagus with truffle and vinegar dressing. Another signature dish not to be missed would be ‘Le Foie gras poêlé’. Neat and elegantly presented, the crispy and soft texture went well together with Chef Mutaro’s secret sauce which balances the oiliness of the foie gras. Bibo brings French dining to a more casual and relaxing experience with its street art interior décor. “Bibo is a space that I had never seen before; I wanted to see it but couldn’t find it anywhere. It’s a vision that passion has brought to reality,” says Bibo. 116

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BiBo 163 Hollywood Road, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong +852 2956 3188 http://www.bibo.hk https://www.facebook.com/ BiboHongKong

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INSPIRED BY A DEEP PASSION

Sanchaya

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The Sanchaya, a luxurious new beachfront estate idyllically located on the Indonesian island of Bintan is positioned on one of the most spectacular beaches in the region. It officially opened on 1 October 2014 and is the first luxury property to open on the Island in more than 10 years. The Sanchaya is the manifestation of its Founder, Natalya Pavchinskaya’s philosophy on lifestyle and reflects her deep passion of the arts, Reminiscent of the European Salons which were prevalent throughout the 18th and 19th centuries, the concept of The Salon is a quintessential ideal of hospitality, where homes were opened to provide guests with a point of interest, and to share with others ‘La Vie Vivant’ – through food, arts, and culture. A unique collection of 21 villas and 9 suites, The Sanchaya enables guests to relive the romance of colonial elegance of a by-gone era. The resort offers guests bespoke luxury, with highly personalized service and absolute attention to detail. The Artisans were trained by the British Butler Institute. “Just 45-minutes from Singapore, this charming retreat envelopes you in the intimacy of a private home while bestowing all the refinements of a world-class hotel. The guest experience at the Estate is totally customized, with every detail handpicked and authentically customised”, shared Murli Rao, Estate Manager. merci magazine

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Each villa and suite has its own unique style, reflecting the rich culture, history and art of the region. Influenced by its rich colours, variety of flavours, and exotic sights and sounds of South East Asia and its rare and incomparable terrain, the very best elements are harmoniously blended together in the individual personalities of the villas and suites. A taste of Thailand is reflected in the Lawan Villageâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s seven villas built around a beautiful man-made lagoon. The dĂŠcor reflects Thai influences throughout, using elegant furnishings accented with dark wood, soft neutral tones and high vaulted ceilings which create the serene ambiance of a private residence. With romantic canopied beds and freestanding bath tubs overlooking private gardens, Lawan Villas are the perfect place to de-stress and unwind. Eight One bedroom Sea View Villas reflect influences from Brunei, Indonesia, Cambodia and Vietnam and four Two Bedroom Sea View Villas reflect influences from Malaysia, The Philippines, Laos and Myanmar. These exquisite villas have private landscaped terraces and gardens which add to the overall feeling of space and tranquillity. Stunning views of the beach and shimmering Indian Ocean can be admired from the nine suites located on the upper floor of The Great House. These suites are filled with art and luxurious furnishings sourced from across South East Asia, reflecting the romantic colonial style of the residence, as well as giving a true sense of the region. Each suite has a collection of The Sanchaya fine art and design.

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Leelawadee Villas are for those who wish to indulge in the

The Salon & Library is a tranquil lounge area overlooking

luxury of having three spacious bedrooms, and are ideal for

the pool and beach, where guests can enjoy a casual meal

a family or a group of friends. The décor of the compound

or beverage from The Dining Room menu or just relax. It

was inspired by Thai traditions and culture, with soothing

also houses a very special wine and cheese tasting room

lush garden views and private pool terraces, the three Leela-

called Decanter which has a curated wine list and a resident

wadee Villas provide a haven of subliminal tranquility.

Sommelier on hand to assist with wine selection and pair-

A stunning expression of Asian chic, the two-storey Vanda

ings.

Villa, the Estate’s Presidential Villa, is influenced by the tropical beauty of Singapore and its striking black and white colonial houses. With a pure simplicity of white furnishings, the four bedrooms Villa has a glorious sense of space and calmness which provides the ultimate setting for its magnificent ocean views. All suites and villas feature king-sized beds and walk-in closets, and come complete with luxury amenities - from Ploh bed and bath linen and discreet modern touches such as Bang & Olufsen televisions and sound systems, iPad minis and Wi-Fi. Culinary Offerings The Sanchaya’s restaurants include The Dining Room for all day dining and the poolside Tasanee Grill serving Bangkok street cuisine in a beach setting where guests can enjoy afternoon tea and learn about the special blends of tea available in the resort.

The Bar offers a menu of bespoke cocktails and beverages along with a selection of artisanal spirits and gourmet blends of fine leaf teas and custom blended coffees. Meetings and Events Dahlia, located in the Great House, is perfect for exclusive board meetings, corporate retreats, intimate round table dinners and cocktails, opening out onto verdant lawns if required. Various seating styles are available accommodating from 24-60 people. Leisure Facilities In addition to the Tasanee pool and exquisite beachfront, The Sanchaya Spa allows guests to lose themselves in the divine sensation of rejuvenation and renewal. The Gymnasium is open 24 hours and is fully equipped for a satisfying workout. The estate will also have an exquisitely manicured croquet lawn where guests can partake of this traditional colonial game.

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December 2014 Weekday rates (Sunday-Thursday) ROOM TYPE Weekend rates (USD) (Friday-Saturday) The Great House Junior Suite Garden View The Great House Junior Suite Sea View 1 Bedroom Villa at Lawan Village The Great House Veranda Suite Sea View 1 Bedroom Villa Sea View 2 Bedroom Villa Sea View Leelawadee (3 Bedroom Villa) with private pool Vanda Villa (4 Bedroom Villa) with private pool

$560 $720 $795 $1,050 $1,220 $ 1,820 $2,340 $8,980

$620 $795 $795 $1,155 $1,345 $2,005 $2,575 $ 9,880

The following is included in the room rate: • Express immigration upon arrival and de parture at The Sanchaya’s dedicated VIP Lounge in Bintan • Complimentary shuttle service between Bintan Resorts Ferry Terminal and The Sanchaya • A refreshing welcome drink on arrival • A sumptuous a la carte breakfast in The Dining Room in the Great House, overlooking the pool and Beach

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• • • • • • •

Complimentary fresh fruit replenished daily Complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the Estate Daily turndown Butler Service (trained by British Butler Institute) Complimentary Maxi bar (snacks, beer and soft drinks) replenished daily Free local calls Espresso machine and a selection of fine teas in your villa or suite

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Starting rates for 2015 are as follows. * All rates are subject to 21% combined tax and service charge and the inclusions above also apply.

ROOM TYPE

Weekday rates (Sunday-Thursday)

The Great House Junior Suite Garden View The Great House Junior Suite Sea View 1 Bedroom Villa at Lawan Village The Great House Veranda Suite Sea View 1 Bedroom Villa Sea View 2 Bedroom Villa Sea View Leelawadee (3 Bedroom Villa) with private pool Vanda Villa (4 Bedroom Villa) with private pool

$620 $795 $795 $1,155 $1,345 $2,000 $2,575 $9,880

Weekend rates (Friday-Saturday) $680 $875 $875 $1,275 $1,480 $2,205 $2,835 $10,870

About The Sanchaya The Sanchaya is a private estate set on the prime northern coast of Bintan Island, and will form a part of a wider development project for Lagoi Bay and its surroundings, which will add private residences, hotels and private estates, commercial spaces, a golf course, and an international airport, in addition to the existing domestic airport on the island.

are available daily from Jakarta to Tanjung Pinang Airport. Bintan is located 45 minutes by ferry from Singaporeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal, just 15 minutes from Singapore Changi International Airport, convenient for regional and international visitors as well as residents of Singapore.

The Sanchaya is located 10 minutes away from Bandar Bentan Telani, Bintanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s main ferry terminal and can also be accessed by Sri Bintan Pura Ferry Terminal at Tanjung Pinang. Direct domestic flight connections

The Sanchaya is a member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World, Destination Elite and Secret Retreats.

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Tel: +65 6221 0806 (Singapore) +62 770 692 200 (Bintan)

Fax: +65 6685 1984 Email: reservations@thesanchaya.com Website: www.thesanchaya.com Facebook: facebook.com/TheSanchaya merci magazine

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The spiritual beauty spa An even better workout experience is available at one of the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading gyms, Seasons Fitness. The ideally-located fitness club in Central, surrounded by the leafy serenity of Hong Kong Park, has recently undergone extensive renovation to boost its already high-quality service with new equipment, improved facilities and expert training. Working out provides fitness enthusiasts with the opportunity to improve cardio capacity, to enhance performance in a favorite sport, to combat stress, or even to kick out the moody blues. Whatever the reason, Seasons Fitness has good energy to give to its wide range of customers, which includes those from the banking and finance industry, as well as other business professionals. The good energy starts with Seasons Fitnessâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s indoor heated swimming pool, which is similar to a precious commodity, much like the rarest of gemstones. This is particularly apt, since it is the only indoor swimming pool in a gym in Central. No matter if the sun is blazing down with heat or a typhoon is approaching with strong winds and rain or during a cool 126 merci magazine

winter morning, the 20-metre long heated pool allows the invigorating activity of swimming to be possible year-round for both men and women. In addition, the swimming pool gives direct access to the female changing room, providing female guests with the greatest convenience. The Day Spa is another treat at Seasons Fitness, and it is not limited to females, as the new male spa comes with a range of treatments specifically formulated for men. Be it the Dead Sea mud detoxifying body wrap treatment, the Hemp Bamboo Hydrating Facial Treatment, the Men Pore Refining Facial or the Tension Relief Massage just to chill out; the registered chiropractor, registered physiotherapist, traditional Chinese medicine practitioner, beauticians, spa therapists and masseurs together with the top quality French facial and spa products from Sothys and Bernard Cassiere will definitely cater to all clients clinical and aesthetic needs. So one can leave their stress at the door and experience the spiritual beauty from within at Seasons Fitness Day Spa.

Celebrating its 11th year in Central, the 30,000 sq. ft. fitness club continues to offer its premium services in an even better environment after its renovation. Apart from the indoor heated pool and Spa centre, the gym and a varying range of studio classes are always available. The one thing in Seasons Fitness that has remained the same even after the renovation is its friendly atmosphere. While many chain fitness centres can equal standardised, impersonal service, the optimal size of Seasons Fitness allows staff members to cordially welcome each client, demonstrating their first-rate hospitality.

Seasons Fitness 3rd Floor, ICBC Tower, Citibank Plaza, 3 Garden Road, Central, Hong Kong Enquires: www.seasonsfitness.com

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A Drink of Timeless, Elegance, Long-lived, Mellowness PHOTO COURTESY: TAYLORâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S PORT BY WINNIE NG

Port wine in many peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s conception is old style, an alcoholic drink that should only be enjoyed by mid-ages or above. It is perhaps mainly affected by the long but fascinating history to be one of the classic European wines. The first wine known under this name came in second half of 17th century in Portugal trading with England. Nowadays, Port can be widely served as aperitif, at main course and at dessert. So what is Port wine? It is a type of fortified wine, arguably the best among all the fortified wines. Port is made by adding a proportion of grape spirit, or brandy before the wine has finished fermenting. This means that the wine retains some of the natural sweetness of the grape, making it rich, round and smooth on the palate. There are different styles of the Port wine, of each has its own characters, flavours and aging ability.

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Winnie Ng Editor of merci wine and coffee section WSET Level 3 Now a register tutor in ERB wine course Port wine is produced in the mountainous eastern reaches of the Douro Valley in northern Portugal, one of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s oldest and most beautiful vineyard areas where wine has been made for at least two thousand years. The name came from the coastal city of Oporto from which it is traditionally exported. Over 29 grape varieties are recommended and over 80 are authorized for Port production. Tinta Roriz (Tempranillo), Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca (Touriga Francesa), Tinta Barroca are the most common varieties being used. Reserved Ruby Ports are a blend of high quality wines from more or more vintages with cask maturation for maximum five years before bottling. They are normally full bodied, rich in fruit characters and deep colour like red wines. Late Bottled Vintage Port (LBV) is a ruby port from a specific year, ageing normally in cask between 4-6 years before bottling. They are richer and more complex compare to Reserved Ruby Ports. Vintage Ports are among the longest-lived wines produced in the world. They represent the very best produce of a single outstanding year. They are kept in vat for only 18 months to three years and then age in bottle. Vintage Ports can be enjoyed when young at a more powerful, rich in fruitiness and tannic character, yet they will mature slowly and improve for many decades in the cellar. 130

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Tawny Ports are normally with the indication of age on the label, as 10, 20, 30 or 40 years, which shows the average age of the lodge for the wine storage and maturation. Rich and mellow tawny ports which age for longer periods in oak casks. Unlike the other styles, tawny Ports are with delicious nuttiness and aromas of butterscotch and fine oak wood intensify the longer they spend in wood What should be the best to celebrate an anniversary day? A Golden Jubliee Port or a 1.5-century years old Port? Unlike Vintage Ports, which age in bottle, Single Harvest Ports are aged in seasoned oak casks and are fully mature and ready to drink when bottled. The long period of wood ageing gives them their characteristic amber colour, smooth velvety palate, warm mellow flavours and nose full of rich complex aromas. Single Harvest Ports are ready for immediate drinking and do not need to be decanted. Taylor Fladgate & Yeatman, one of the original founding Port houses, was established over three centuries ago in 1692. The firm is best known for its elegant and long lasting Vintage Ports which are among the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most sought after and collectible wines. To meet the continuing demand, Taylorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s has decided to release a rare Port from its collection, a Single Harvest Port from 1863. Regarded as the last great Port harvest before the spread of Phylloxera throughout the Douro Valley, 134

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1863 produced wines of great longevity. The remarkable

Apart from that, Taylor’s has continued the launched of

1863 has been in wood for over a century-and-a-half. It is

a golden jubilee year of Single Harvest Port since 2013.

an authentic piece of wine history, a time capsule offer-

The Taylor’s Single Harvest 1963 was a special limited

ing a fascinating glimpse into a distant past, telling drink-

edition Port produced last year exclusively for the Man-

ers the story and explaining what wine is about before

darin Oriental Hong Kong to celebrate its 50th anniver-

the Phylloxera.

sary. It can still be enjoyed in the Chinnery Bar and the

The 1863 Single Harvest Port is delivered in a specially produced Italian crystal decanter with an individual fitted glass stopper engraved and polished in hand in Scotland, and presented in a superb luxury box with maple burl veneer finishing. The Limited Edition release corresponds to only TWO casks of wine which is absolutely a rare and exclusive collector’s item. Each box contains a certificate individually signed by Taylor’s Managing Director, Adrian

Captain’s Bar. 1964 Single Harvest is available to consumers in markets around the world from January 2014, for 50th anniversary gifts and celebrations throughout the year. The release will be followed a year later by the launch of an equally rare and exceptional 1965. The Taylor’s Single Harvest Ports are presented in the classic frosted bottle in a high quality wooden box. Enquiries: www.taylor.pt

Bridge. They are available in September 2014 on request to Taylor’s worldwide importers. merci magazine

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Crabmea in Golde

Homemade D

Autumn Crab http://www.ji

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at en Broth

Delicacy by Au-Yeung Ying Chai

Feast at JIA Gourmet Dining Room ia-inc.com

Renowned Multi-Media Artist Au Yeung Ying Chai has written up many gastronomic delights in various cities. He chronicles his journey with fine food and records urban culture with his palate. For the very first time he will share his secret recipe, Crabmeat in Golden Broth, just in time for the best season of autumn crab feast! The Steamer Set from JIA Inc. is the ideal cooking vessel to bring out the freshness in autumn crabs. Au Yeung Ying Chai prefers the JIA Wok to prepare the autumn crabs in Cantonese style for enhancing the aroma and the flavor. And the Seafood Set from the JIA Inc. Calligraphy Collection is the perfect complement while enjoying an autumn crab feast in the most elegant style possible. Ingredients 2 Whole Crabs, 1 Pumpkin Seasoning Salt, Pepper, Scallion, Ginger, Rice Wine, Chicken Stock, Potato Starch Directions • Peel, deseed pumpkin and cut into slices; steam and smash into paste. • Wash crabs and chop into pieces; season with salt, rice wine, scallion and ginger and marinate. • Remove scallion and ginger, moisten crabs with thickened potato starch and put into the wok with hot oil. • Remove crabs quickly and rinse the wok • Heat up the wok and sauté pumpkin mash with cooking oil. • Add chicken stock, a pinch of salt, pepper and rice wine for seasoning. • Put in crabs and continue cooking until done.

Chrysanthemum appreciation, poetry reading and crab tasting are considered cultural enjoyments during the Ming and Qing dynasties. As recited in historical record, eating crabs evolved into a dainty feast starting in the Ming dynasty. A set of tools were invented by craftsmen for eating crabs. A total of eight pieces include hammer, small table, tong, long axe, fork, blade and needle. JIA Inc. aims to keep the heritage of such ancient craftsmenship intact and introduces the Calligraphy Collection with a three-piece Seafood Set. It is the perfect complement while enjoying an autumn crab feast in Asia and used as a nutcracker during the walnut harvest season in the West.

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Tarte aux pommes aka French apple tart By Jenny Ho

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Tarte aux pommes aka French apple tart Ingredients (for 4 persons)

Crust 1 sheet frozen shortcrust pastry

Filling 2 Medium apples 45g Granulated sugar 1/2 tsp. Cinnamon powder 25g Flour 1 Egg 50ml Crème fraiche

Directions • • • • • • • •

Defrost the shortcrust pastry sheet at room temperature for 2 hours. Roll the pastry sheet into a 10” x 4” floured pan and put back to fridge while making the fillings. Preheat oven to 200C. Peel the apples and remove the stems. Slice into quarter slices and squeeze some lemon juice on top to prevent oxidation. Place overlapping on the pastry. Mix the flour, granulated sugar, egg, crème fraiche and cinnamon until smooth. Pour the filling into the pastry and bake for 35 minutes. Serve with vanilla ice cream and sprinkle some icing sugar on top. Heaven!

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Edamame Peach white Corns Wrap with Kale Spinach sprouted Almonds Pesto { VG, no salt } Photo & recipes by: Kaman Yip

Ingredients (For 1 Person) Organic Whole Wheat Tortilla wrap (from citysuper) Japanese Peach (raw) Japanese Hokkaido white sweetcorns (raw, seasonal, can use any corns) Edamame (cooked) Black sesame (sprinkle, optional or any seeds of your preference)

Kale spinach pesto sauce: Kale, baby spinach, basil ,mint , sprouted almonds, fresh lemon juice, olive oil. Blend all. (you can blend any herbs of own preference or what is on hand) {overnight soaked almonds , and sprouted for 2days}

How to make it Boiled watie and cook fresh edamame bean for 8 mins, served on bowl, de-skinned how much you like and prep for the wrap later. the rest of edamame can be use as side dish . Heat up the wrap in an oven for 5mins, if you dont have oven, i steam or heat up on the skillet till hot and soft. Meanwhile, cut and slice peach and slicing white corns to be use in wrap. when the wrap is ready, place all ingredients and pesto and roll up the wrap. Ready & served! Pretty easy and quick for lunch.

kaman

Voila! Enjoy your summer bowl !

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