SEASONEWS 02 by seasons of living

SEASON NEWS Inside the life and work of the celebrated Italian painter, sculptor and designer Piero Fornasetti

Grey, Beige and Blue are just some of the hot new trends in furniture design

We ask leading fashionista â&#x20AC;&#x153;Duangâ&#x20AC;? Wannaporn Poshyanonda where she gets her design ideas

ISSUE No. 2

The coolest neighborhoods and hippest venues for design, fashion, dining and more in Hong Kong, Singapore and Kuala Lumpur

INTRO 03

Seasons Greetings

Contents

SEASONEWS

A Magazine for all Seasons

Seasons News

Seasons Living

From a special party to celebrate the genius of Fornasetti to the last brand arrival, all the latest goings on at Seasons.

The hippest openings in town plus special offers for SEASONEWS readers.

A warm welcome to the second issue of SEASONEWS, a magazine devoted to style, design and the finer things in life. Around the world the seasons and the trends are changing as we begin a new year and this magazine is all about telling you what’s hot and what to look out for in 2013. While the star of our cover might be about to celebrate the centenary of his birth, Italian designer Piero Fornasetti remains as significant and as cutting edge as ever. Seasons News covers a special event we recently held in his honor, while our main feature explores the life and prolific work of this amazing man and reveals how his son Barnaba has worked tirelessly to keep his father’s distinctive and quirky genius alive and still relevant. Talking of relevance, we catch up with RougeRouge creator and designer Duang Poshyanonda to discover where she gets her inspiration and what she thinks are the next big trends in Thai fashion.

Seasons Story

Seasons Trends

The life and work of the remarkable Italian designer and interior decorator Piero Fornasetti.

From burnished gold to Greige we look at the essential colors appearing in this year’s furniture collections.

For further contemporary design tips and advice we drop by the home of Ben and Shaya Na Nakorn to explore their striking space, which manages to combine timeless style with their own fun and irreverent approach to life. Continuing our commitment to bring you the most exciting trends, we explore the world of furniture design and discover that getting your color palette right is going to be key in the coming months. For those who like to travel we head off the beaten path in Hong Kong, Singapore and Kuala Lumpur to discover three hip neighborhoods that are proving a big draw with locals in the know and are packed with cool cafes, designer boutiques and edgy galleries.

Seasons Talent

Seasons Focus

Best known for her bright red lips, Duang Poshyanonda is now taking the fashion world by storm with her brand of surreal bags

We travel to Hong Kong, Singapore and KL to discover three exciting neighborhoods that are streets ahead of the usual tired haunts.

Finally, closer to home, we visit two new openings that both offer promises of satisfaction in very different ways. New aesthetic and beauty clinic Dermaster helps restore, repair and enhance the body and mind, while fine dining restaurant Whale’s Belly promises food to uplift the soul. So why not let us help you stay on trend and in touch and we promise we’ll make sure you have lots of fun at the same time.

22 Onnalin Lojanagosin Director Lotus Home Design Co., ltd. (Seasons)

Seasons Showcase We get a glimpse into the stylish home of Ben and Shaya Na Nakorn and find out how they manage to combine fun and style in their contemporary home.

Lotus Home Design co.,ltd (SEASONS) 342/1-2 Soi. Ekkamai 20, Sukhumvit 63 Rd. Wattana Bangkok 10110 Thailand T (+66) 2 715 0845 F (+66) 2 715 0844 www.seasonsofliving.com

SEASONS NEWS 04

Fornasetti Celebrated

November saw Seasons host a special event in honor of the anniversary of the birth of the great Italian artist and interior decorator Piero Fornasetti.

eld at the Seasons showroom on Ekkamai on Saturday 10 November, A Magical Evening of Fornasetti Wonderment and Inspiration, lived up to its name with an enchanting night of surrealism and style, perfectly capturing the essence and attitude of this amazing man and his stunning portfolio of products and designs. The stellar list of honored guests included MR Srikhumrung Yugala, Major General Patchara Rattakul, Khun Kornkanok Yongsakul, Khun Wannaporn Poshiyanonda, Khun Orn-arpa Poonsupmanee, Khun Tiplada Pulsirivong and restaurateur and importer Khun Ben and his wife Khun Shaya Na Nakorn. Greeted by a kaleidoscope of butterflies, and tumbling mannequin-like acrobats—representing two of Fornasetti’s most famous tropes—guests were treated to an evening of whimsy and wit, fun and elegance. The highlights had to be the two feature rooms: the Red Room and the Room of Faces. The Red Room featured a very special collection of exclusive products, including the handmade limited edition Soldier Coat Hanger (pictured below) and the exciting new Fornasetti-Profumi collection, featuring scented candles set in beautiful ceramic containers sporting classic Fornasetti iconography (below right).

The Room Of Faces also featured a classic Fornasetti theme, indeed perhaps his most iconic, as the walls were adorned with plates containing the striking image of opera soprano Lina Cavalieri. Fornasetti created over 500 different items containing her distinctive features in a series titled “Themes and Variations.” Guests were invited to win prizes by identifying specific patterns in this visually striking, and slightly surreal space. Visually striking and slightly surreal, two words that are wellmatched to the Italian’s body of work and the perfect way to mark a fitting tribute to 100 years of his genius.

SEASONS NEWS 05

SEASONS LIVING 06

SEASONS LIVING 07

Whale’s Belly

he brainchild of three foodie friends who decided to team up and open a fine dining restaurant in the heart of Asoke after finishing cooking school. Taking their cue from the Adventures of Pinocchio, the striking décor conjures up images of eating inside a whale’s belly. Rows of pastel-cream curved wooden slats are hoisted above the ceiling to imitate a whale’s ribcage, or possibly waves, while the dominate color of the large space is lots of navy blue. Panoramic windows offer a romantic view of Sukhumvit at night, while portholes give glimpses into the partly open kitchen. The final nautical elements come from fish tanks, ship wheels and a wall of colorful, sparkling bubbles near the entrance. A touch of true finesse is also provided by the live classical music, which is performed every Friday and Saturday night. The executive chef Mai Apirawit, spent time at Le Normandie, the best French restaurant in the Asia Pacific region, so the technique and presentation is mostly modernist French & Italian, with a slight influence from global cuisine. Not surprisingly the menu features lots of seafood options though land lovers are also well served by the exciting menu. Cool down

with the refreshing Timbale of Avocado and Crab (blue crab rillette, avocado, guacamole, lumpfish caviar and honeydew gazpacho) or set sail with the earthier Duck & Beets (smoked duck breast, pickled beetroot, needle beans and lemon vinaigrette). Despite the chefs modern European training, there are also Asianinspired touches in dishes like the Lacquered Chilean Seabass with Orange Miso Emulsion, Shiitake and Teriyaki Sauce, as well as more down-to-earth dishes like the highlight Mc ‘N Cheese Duo of Ravioli (herbed chicken stuffing, ricotta, espagnole and parmesan cream sauce). For those with a sweet tooth you can savor decadent treats like the Winter’s Night (kirsch dark cherries, Rocher crisp, dark chocolate ganache). The drinks are equally inventive, with specially created cocktails like the Traditional Clove Martini (clove oil, Galliano, pineapple juice, lime juice and cinnamon syrup, B220) or Together Forever (cucumber, lychee vodka, Campari, cranberry juice and pink grapefruit juice), along with an extensive selection of over 100 different wines. The net result is something very original but also very contemporary, atmospheric and unique. A limited number of lucky SEASONEWS readers have the chance to experience Whale’s Belly for less by claiming one of the special vouchers. Simply contact Seasons on 02-715-0844 to claim your coupon.

39 Boulevard, 41 Sukhumvit Soi 39, 02-160-0333. Open daily 11:30am-2:30pm, 6:30-10:30pm

SEASONS STORY 10

An Italian ICON

Piero Fornasetti was a famed sculptor, painter, interior decorator and engraver. Famed for his original and inventive talent, the Italian was also incredibly prolific, creating over 11,000 different pieces in his lifetime.

ith fans ranging from Elton John to designer Philippe Starck who describes Fornasetti’s work as similar to “fine haute couture,” the work of maverick Italian sculptor, painter, interior decorator and engraver Piero Fornasetti has retained a lasting appeal. Despite the rise and fall of different trends in the world of design, his work has continued to intrigue and inspire thanks to his incredibly creative and distinctive style—based on striking motifs, illusions and architectural perspectives filled with charm, whimsy and wit. His lasting legacy is also down to his prolific approach to work, and the sheer range of objects that he applied this distinctive style, too. Chairs, plates, cushions, cupboards, scarves and so much more; it’s estimated that he created over 11,000 products in his lifetime. Fornasetti, who was born in 1913 in Milan, Italy, described himself as a ‘born painter’ who began taking his art seriously at the tender age of ten. “Nobody in the workshops where I went could teach me. I learned from

Dear contemporaries, don’t you realise how different we are? Although I depict you as equals and like the ancients you never change. —Piero Fornasetti

books – lithography and etching, all this before the founding of specialized schools,” he later recalled. His parents’ house, where he would live all his life, and where his son now lives, served as an early canvas to his artistic experimentations. At the age of 17, Fornasetti enrolled at Brera Academy to study drawing, only to be expelled two years later for insubordination. When later asked about the incident, Fornasetti responded that it wasn’t really his fault, “They weren’t teaching me what I wanted to learn. They didn’t teach me how to draw from life.” After Brera Academy, he enrolled in the School of Applied Arts and Industry in Milan and continued to hone his creative passion with his pieces being publically displayed at a student exhibition in 1933. Soon after a series of his silk printed scarves were presented as part of the Milan Triennale exhibition. In 1940, Piero met the architect and designer Gio Ponti who he would collaborate with numerous times during his life. Soon after their first meeting Ponti commissioned Fornasetti to create a calendar that he could give to friends. The result, the Lunar, consisted of 12 images of the Sun, the beginning of a lifelong fascination with this symbol. Ponti who became one of Italy’s most important architects and the designer of the Pirelli Tower skyscraper in Milan would later declare that his friend and colleague had the ability ‘to make objects speak.”

SEASONS STORY 11

House of Arts

The outbreak of World War II saw Fornasetti head into exile in Switzerland from 1943-1946 to escape the fighting. It was here that his vision was broadened and new interests found. After the war he returned to Milan and finally opened his own workshop, or atelier, with one of his first commissions coming from Ponti to create a series of motifs for ceramics at the 1947 Triennale exhibition. Following his return to Italy, Fornasetti reputation grew yet further thanks to a number of projects including the interior design of the San Remo Casino in 1950 and, a year later, the complete interior design for the Casa Lucano, again working alongside Ponti. His design of the first class areas for the Andrea Doria ocean liner in 1952 further helped solidify his place as a talented creator. However, despite his prolific work in the field of interior design, Fornasetti is perhaps most famous for the many pieces based around the smooth and expressionless face of a woman. The initial inspiration came from an image of a woman that Fornasetti spotted in a 19th century French magazine—an image that was later discovered to be of the famous opera singer Lina Cavalieri. In total he created over 350 pieces, designed with different variations of the woman’s face, mostly on ceramic plates. The collection was called ‘Tema e Variazioni’ (Themes and Variations) and has now been reproduced as many objects from wallpaper and lamps to scarves and cushions. While being his most famous and recognizable, the mysterious woman was certainly not the only recurring motif witnessed in his work. Fornasetti’s knowledge and inspiration derived from his own curiosity and devotion to understand how things are created. The vast collection of books he accumulated at the famous Fornasetti residence stands testament to his extensive knowledge and voracious appetite for anything related to art, architecture and history.

I feel the need to make things and I make them. I make them in the best way possible.—Piero Fornasetti

Among his huge body of work, the standout masterpiece is the Fornasetti family home in the Città Studi area of Milan, where he experimented, invented, created, and decorated since his childhood. Rooms and corridors were intricately connected by Fornasetti’s art pieces. Rare hand painted furniture and a collection of his paintings also remain on display there. His son Barnaba occasionally gives tours on request to reveal the hidden treasures of Fornasetti’s work displayed throughout the house.

Stool Chair Featuring the nose and lips of Cavalieri, a splash of red mixes the minimalist shape of the stool with the artistic Fornasetti design to create a pop art feel.

Cushions Seasons is the exclusive stockist for these Fornasettiinspired cushions in Asia. Featuring a selection of images based on Opera singer Lina Cavalieri, the cushions are a stylish statement for any living room or study.

Chair Set “Lux Gstaad” Made using varnished wood, this unique dining chair set features the famous face wearing a balaclava and is available in different colors.

Corner Cabinet “Serratura” This stunning bright red cabinet featuring a distinctive keyhole design is an eye-catching centerpiece.

SEASONS STORY 12 Life and Work 1913 Born Milan, Italy

1930 Entered Brera Academy to study drawing.

Refused to be labeled or categorized, Fornasetti once noted, “This is a fixation that I fight, that of the labels; Surrealism, Neo-Realism, Romantic, Post-Modern. We have the habit of buying ‘signatures’ and no longer beautiful things that we like.”

1940 Met architect Gio Ponti and was commissioned to create the ‘Lunar’ Calendars.

Instead of being pigeonholed, Fornasetti stated that his simple aspiration, was to create “fashion items that never go out of fashion.”

1943-1946 Exiled in Switzerland during WWII

Like Father Like Son More than anyone it is thanks to Barnaba Fornasetti that his father’s amazing legacy didn’t die when he passed away in 1988. The head and heart of the Fornasetti brand and atelier in Milan, he has acted as both creative stimulus and custodian of his father’s distinctive work as it moves forward. As custodian he has ensured that the strong vision of his father was never allowed to become over commercialized and diluted. Indeed he has steered the brand back towards a focus on handcrafted, limited-edition items, many of them made by a team of skilled in-house craftsmen and restorers. He has also worked tirelessly to explore the Fornasetti archive and uncover important motifs. A designer in his own right, he also went to Brera Fine Arts Academy, Barnaba has played a key role in ensuring his father’s iconic imagery and enduring legacy remain up to date and relevant, adding a quirky irreverence and a bold, contemporary design aesthetic that has seen the brand continue to go from strength to strength.

Playing cards, butterflies, Roman architecture and harlequins can all be found again and again in his pieces, a concept that could perhaps be traced to those early Lunar calendars. “It was always my idea not to make unique pieces, but in series,” was a statement Fornasetti often repeated when describing his work.

In 1970, Fornasetti founded the ‘Galleria dei Bibliofili’ (Bibliofili Gallery) which he managed and used as a space to exhibit his own work. By 1980 his talent had been recognized

1950 Decorated interior of the San Remo Casino

1951 Created the iconic ‘Palladiana’ chest of drawers

1970 Founded the Biblofili Gallery in Milan

1980 Opens Themes and Variations design store in London

1988 Death of Piero Fornasetti

far and wide but interest in his products had started to die down. That was until the opening of London design store Themes and Variations, which once again shone a spotlight on his distinctive genius. Seven years later his first book project illustrating his work was released in collaboration with Patrick Mauriès.

Paper Basket Many of Fornasetti’s designs have a surreal almost carnival air, like this image of colorful balloons transposed on a very everyday object.

SEASONS STORY 13

Fornasetti died of heart-related problems in 1988 at the age of 74. It brought to the end an amazingly imaginative and productive life. Indeed, it’s perhaps the sheer creativity and extent of Fornasetti’s work that is so spectacular.

I do not believe in eras or times. I refuse to establish the value of things based on time— Piero Fornasetti

A passion and drive that the maverick artist explained in very simple terms. “I feel the need to make things and make them in the best way possible…I began to make them and I never stopped.”

Glass Candle Holder The sun was eventually recognized as one of Fornasetti’s signature devices.

Small curved cabinet City of Cards Tray Demonstrating another recurrent theme that of playing cards, which were often used as architectural building blocks to create walls, statues, towers or in this case whole cities.

Fornasetti was always keen to play tricks of illusion, especially with his furniture designs, evident from this cabinet made to look like a book shelf.

Curved Chest of Drawers Screen Fornasetti was fascinated by the links between architecture and furniture and often used architectural drawings as part of his designs.

Featuring colored farfalle (butterflies) on white, representing another device often used by Fornasetti. It is also one of the many examples of how he incorporated nature into his designs.

SEASONS TRENDS 15

Burnished Gold One color trend that is really hot at the moment is burnished gold. Rich, welcoming and timeless this dark orange yellow tone works well with a neutral palette lending a sense of warmth and a luxe touch to any outfit or room.

01 Fornasetti Plates. 02 Caboche Grande Chandelier. 03 Alambicco Gold Vases by BS Collection. 04 White Lamps by BS Collection. 05 Boxy by Glas Italia. 06 Cristal Vases by BS Collection. Dress by Matthew Williamson

SEASONS Trends 16

SEASONS TRENDS 17

Blue

Clearly the color of the year has to be the wide palette offered by the many different shades of blue. From vivid aquamarine to a more somber navy the wide spectrum offered means its infinitely versatile and can be both formal and fun.

01 Graf Hanging Lamp, Diesel by Foscarini. 02 Fortepiano by Molteni&C. 03 Brest Blue Leather Sofa by Baxter. 04 Samurai by Barovier & Toso. 05 Marina Blue Lamp by Barovier & Toso. 06 Great jj by Baxter. 07 Wing Chair, Divina Melange designed by Hans J. Wegner for Carl Hansen & Son. 08 Chester Moon Sofa by Baxter. Dress by Milin

SEASONS TRENDS 19

Greige One general trend that been apparent in both fashion and furniture design of late has been the move back towards softer more natural materials and color schemes. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s one reason why Grey and Beige (Greige) are currently proving so popular, thanks to their ability to be both minimal and warm, stylish and natural. 01 Fork Hanging Lamp, Diesel by Foscarini. 02 Cleopatra by BS Collection. 03 Houston Armchair by Baxter. 04 Amburgo Draga Chair by Baxter. 05 Miroir Table by Baxter. 06 Vik Composition stools by Baxter. 07 Sultan Grey by Ibride. Dress by Mulberry

All items pictured available from Seasons showroom, 342/1-2, Soi Ekkamai 20, Sukhumvit 63 Rd., 02-715-0845. www.seasonsofliving.com

SEASONS TALENT 20

A surreal talent W

annaporn “Duang” Poshyanonda, and her vivid red lips, have been a wellknown sight on the Thai fashion scene for a while but it’s only in the last couple of years that she’s made the exciting step from fashionista to fashion designer. After launching fashion-forward children’s wear line Rhapsody last year she quickly followed it up with striking bag brand RougeRouge, whose name derived from those trademark lips. Her distinctive bags have already met with plenty of acclaim both here and overseas. She was the only Thai designer to be spotlighted by Her World magazine during the prestigious Blue Prints fashion trade show in Singapore and her designs are now sold as far afield as Dubai. Here she tells us how she went from designing kids’ clothing to surrealist bags, explains what inspires her, how she is looking to support the next fashion generation and what she has planned for the future.

How did you get started in the fashion business? Well, I actually studied fashion marketing at the Instituto Marangoni in Milan. Then, when I graduated with a distinction I worked as a representative for Marangoni here in Bangkok, as well as getting involved in the PR for the brands Lacroix and Pucci. Still, I wanted to try my own hand at fashion design of some kind. I did a lot of research into the market and found that there was a real opportunity in childrenswear for producing clothes for parents who really wanted to dress their kids differently, with a real fashion edge. So we took prints and styles that were more suited to adult wear and that’s how Rhapsody was born. How did you make the move from kids clothes to bags? It was really by chance. Zen Department store invited me to design a bag for their Zen Design Showcase in 2011. I worked with my friend Mark Ketteringham, who was an accessory designer at Givenchy, while I acted as the creative director. We only created three pieces for the initial collection, which we named “Three Sisters.” I started taking them out to events and people kept asking me where I got my bag from and where they could get them, so I realized that I should clearly take it more seriously.

Where do you get your inspiration? I get my inspiration from everywhere. The “Three Sisters” collection featured lots of bold geometric shapes and took its inspiration from Milanese architecture. That was obviously related to my time living and studying in Milan. But the real me is more surreal. The direction of the brand will be continuously surreal. The latest series of pieces is entitled the “Dali” collection and takes its inspiration from the surrealist movement. I launch new products monthly, I don’t follow seasons.

SEASONS TALENT 21 What is the state of the Thai Fashion scene? Thai fashion has become better, more systematic, in terms of international standards. It’s no longer a question of one-man-shows. Brands now have a creative director, designers, marketing and PR people working as a team, which is vital if you want to build your brand. Also in recent years I’ve noticed that the younger generation of Thai designers are proving to be really good at local craft techniques and styles. What they now need to do is develop their products to balance Thai crafts with international trends. Even though Thai fashion schools are not yet comparable to the world’s top ones, works from fashion students are getting better and better, like those from SWU, Rangsit and Silpakorn universities. What trends do you think will be big in Bangkok this year? I think the surreal trend is going to be huge here. I think a lot of the inspiration for this is coming from the recent Impossible Conversations exhibition at The MET Museum in New York, which compared and contrasted the two iconic designers Elsa Schaparelli and Miuccia Prada. Schaparelli, in particular, was closely associated with the Surrealist movement. I also think polka dots are going to be big thanks to the collaboration between Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama and Louis Vuitton. I strongly believe that Thai people will just generally become more interested in art in the next year or so. That in turn will influence the fashion trends we see on the Thai catwalks and designer stores. What current trends annoy you? Definitely Gangnam style! What next?

Who are you designs aimed at? The women who like my stuff are fashionable ladies who know what they want. They have outstanding characters. They’re working woman who work hard and play hard. They love the arts and they love to be playful. My bags complements their looks and their attitudes.

To be honest, I am going to concentrate on RougeRouge. Rhapsody will still exist but it will be downscaled to become Rhapsody Couture and it will only be available at Gaysorn. I really want to focus on the bags for the time being. It’s a real dream to have my own shop, to have my own space with a truly striking decor that really represents my brands.

What’s your take on the Thai fashion scene at the moment? Well, I think it’s OK but the next wave of young designers definitely needs more support and assistance. I try and do my bit to give something back to the fashion community. For example, I support talented Thai fashion and interior designers through Domus Academy and Instituto Marangoni scholarships. This year, I am also proud to be one of the judges of the Elle Decoration design talent award 2013 and also at the Fashion Degree show at the Bangkok Design Festival in November 2013. I’m really excited about seeing what the new wave is up to creatively. Rouge Rouge is available at: RougeRouge Surreal Space, G Floor, Zen, CentralWorld 4/5 Ratchadamri Road, Pathumwan, Bangkok 10330 Tel: 02-100-9999 BLACKJACK, 1st Floor Siam Discovery Center 444 Phayathai Road, Pathumwan, Bangkok 10330 Tel: 02-658-0102 E&P Selective Zone, M Floor Siam Paragon Shopping Center 991 Rama 1 Rd., Pathumwan, Bangkok 10330 Tel: 02-690-1192 Visit www.rougerougebag.com for more information.

SEASONS FOCUS 22

Hot Hoods

Get a fresh perspective on KL, Singapore and Hong Kong with a visit to the most happening neighborhoods and venues in the region. A change can be as good as a rest, which is why there’s nothing better than jumping on a plane and heading off for a weekend city break. Singapore, Hong Kong and even Kuala Lumpur all offer a different vibe to Bangkok, whether that’s Michelin star restaurants, Malay street food or some truly high end bars. But therein lies the problem, we’ve already done these cities to death: you’ve already sampled the cocktails at eyeBar, dined at Iggys or had the credit card working overtime at Starhill. We’re sure that like us you want to escape those clichés in favor of more authentic neighborhoods, which offering a perfect mix of cafés, fashion and art.

Juice 46-46-1 Jalan Telawi 5, +603-2283-5811. www.clotinc.com The KL branch of a chain out of HK, Juice is a long-term resident in the Bangsar community where it serves up urban fashion and sportswear by the likes of Nike, Converse and CLOT in an uber cool showroom.

Kuala Lumpur — Bangsar

mcdonald’s

Juice Jalan telawi 5

Les Deux Garcons

Pantry Magic

Blueberry Jalan telawi 4

CzipLee Nirawa

SHOP C Zip Lee Book Store No. 1 & 3, Jalan Telawi 3. www.cziplee.com This book store has been in Bangsar since 1968 but while it has recently moved out of its lovely original building, it has just headed up the street to a larger premise. Thankfully it’s still packed with a huge range of titles; they’re especially good for non-fiction stuff like travel and cooking. The selection of stationery is just as impressive.

Bangsar village II The Social El Meson F by Buffalo Jalan telawi 1 Bangsar village Ben’s Plan B

Antipodean Cafe

Jln maarof

Jln telawi 2

New neighborhoods come and go in this rapidly expanding town but, despite the rise of an upscale rival over at Solaris Mont Kiara, we still find ourselves heading back to the grungy hipness of Bangsar. Partly it’s for the leafy streets, partly for the laidback residential vibe and partly for the two-story shophouses that double as family homes. Add to that the sheer range (and ever changing) food, drink and young designer boutiques on offer, and this area feels more like a hip suburb in Sydney than an enclave of KL.

Ben’s General Food Store Bangsar Village 1, Ground Floor, Jalan Telawi. +603-2284-8790. www.thebiggroup. co/bgfs While the classy all-white bistro, with its fresh pastas and salads, is well worth a visit, we really love the food and drink store next door. From Wagyu beef and imported pasta to fresh olives and St Agur blue cheese, this place is all about the best available imported and organic food.

Blueberry Boutique 8, Jalan Tewi 4, +603-2283-1663 This tiny store is easy to miss, but it’s worth hunting out for fans of distinct vintage styles, with a cute girly touch and lots of bright colors. They stock a wide range of women’s wear, from retro skirts and tailored dresses to shoes and bags.

SEASONS FOCUS 23 Where to stay

EAT Antipodean Cafe 20 Jalan Telawi 2, +603-2282-0411 This modern Kiwi/Australian style café uses the very best coffee blends produced by Indonesian-based franchise Merdeka Coffee. They back it up with a solid menu of brunch/ breakfast classics in a simple café setting. The buzz does mean it can be hard to get a seat. Chawan 69-G Jalan Telawi 3, +603-2287-5507 Half coffee specialist, half upmarket mamak (the Malay equivalent of a street-side 24-hour diner), Chawan has a devoted crowd who come for the range of coffee and inviting, affordable traditional Malay menu. For a light snack, try the keropok lekor, a popular doughy finger food. To wash it down, order kopi hang tuah, Penang’s regional rocket fuel. Plan B Bangsar Village 1, G5, Ground Floor No. 1, Jalan Telawi. www.thebiggroup.co/planb Currently the hippest spot in the hood, Plan B is a modern coffee shop cum bar and deli. Good bistro style food, big sofas, a nice outdoor terrace and a seasonal selection of single origin beans make this a top spot to hang.

F by Buffalo Kitchens 69-1, Jalan Telawi Tiga, +603-2201-9307 Head up the graffiti-covered wooden stairs to find this very contemporary French/Italian eatery, with an ecotouch. They use recycled furniture and flooring, make all their own sauces and have a very impressive wine list. We love the large open kitchen and the great vantage point offered by the al fresco balcony. Les Deux Garcons 36 Jalan Telawi, +603-2284-7833 If you’re into exquisite looking patisseries then this is the place to come. Only open last year, the wonderfully understated little store has a very chic atmosphere and a beautiful selection of desserts, including their best-selling macaroons.

Founded and designed by one of KL’s most renowned landscape artist Seksan, boutique guesthouse Sekeping Tenggiri is the hippest accommodation in Bangsar. Each room is individually conceptualized out of the original 1970’s bungalow, which has vertical gardens, a swimming pool and exposed brick walls for that touch of nostalgia. There is even an art gallery located within, featuring works of contemporary Malaysian and Thai artists to add to the artsy vibe. 48 Jalan Tenggiri, +603 7207-5977. www.tenggiri.com.

Nirawa Banana Leaf 43, Jalan Telawi 3, +603-2287-8445 A non-descript shophouse that’s always overflowing onto the street with hungry punters enjoying the authentic Indian and Penang-style fare. Don’t miss the dishes served on banana leaves (fried fish, crab, chicken curries and more) which are eaten by hand and come with additional refills.

Hot Spot

Marini’s The latest spot in the city to reach for the sky, this venue certainly aims high, perched as it’s on the 57th floor of the Menara 3 Petronas tower. A bar, cigar lounge and a classic Italian restaurant, the most striking thing about this venue is the floor to ceiling glass walls and a glass roof allowing you uninterrupted views over the neighboring Petronas twin towers. Reservations are currently a must. Level 57, Menara 3 Petronas, Persiaran KLCC, 2161-2880/2161-4880, www.marinis57.com. Open Mon to Sun, 5pm to 3am.

Hot Spot

Publika Around a 15-minute taxi ride north of downtown, you’ll find the oneyear-old Publika, which reminds us of the former Playground. Set in the lower floors of a high-end residential complex, this all-black designfocused shopping mall is home to cool cafes, select design stores and hosts cultural events, ranging from art installations to live performances at its outdoor stage. Located at the far end of the mall, The Bee (Level G2, +603-6211-7621. www.thebee.com.my) has become a favorite hangout spot for creative and fashion people, from designers to models. Chef Miguel Hokama, a Peruvian with Japanese lineage, concocts comfort food (again) among a kitsch melange of mismatched chairs, vintage bric-a-brac and raw cement. Block C5, Solaris Dutamas, 1 Jalan Dutamas, +603-6207-9426. Open daily 10am-9pm. www.publika.com.my.

SEASONS FOCUS

Kim pong rd.

Seng poh rd

White Canvas

HONG KONG — Tai Ping Shan

The Orange Thimble

Drips

This quiet street, lined with tong laus (tenement buildings) is chockablock with funky boutiques. And when you’re done spending your cash, don’t forget to check out some of the cute cafés in the area.

Foodie Market Place

Outram rd

SHOP Start From Zero 18A-B Tai Ping Shan St., +852-2858-9001, www.startfromzero.org Street artists Start From Zero are behind this dark, sleek corner store selling framed graphic posters of their work as well as men’s fashion and accessories. Chum5 5 Tai Ping Shan St., Shueng Wan, +8522548-2888 This little shop sells over-the-top footwear imported from Taiwan, Italy and the US. Think colorful high heels for women as well as cloth shoes for gents that tend toward the hipster end of the spectrum. Haji Gallery G/F, 24C Tai Ping Shan St., Sheung Wan, +852-2891-1164. This modest gallery-slash-boutique, was among the first ripple of lifestyle stores to make the street the quiet-yet-quirky haven it is today. Owned by a former radio DJ Mini Choi and her artist husband, it aims to provide a platform for newer artists to display their work. Stop by and browse the latest exhibition or to pick up trinkets created by local artists and designers, like postcards, bags and T-shirts.

Eat Teakha Shop B, 18 Tai Ping Shan St., Sheung Wan, +852-2858-9185 This small and cozy teashop and store opened last year, offering delicious scones and fragrant teas. The teas are artisanal and organic, while the products include ceramic cups, handmade crafts and one-of-a-kind clothing, mostly with Chinese elements. Owner and manager Nana Chan says she prefers including products which have a real story behind them. Knockbox Coffee Company Shop B, 14 Tai Ping Shan St., Sheung Wan. knockboxcoffee@gmail.com This micro-sized café with a few stools is a heaven for both coffee enthusiasts and amateurs. Knockbox has 4-5 specialty coffees on the menu picked to provide a diverse flavor. Live a little and order the Coffee Grand Slam and you’ll get three cups of coffee, which could mean (1) three different coffees, (2) the same coffee for three, or (3) all the same bean but three different brews.

HOT SPOT HOT SPOT

22 Ships Chef Jonathan Atherton, who used to work at elBulli, helped win Gordon Ramsey’s Maze two Michelin Stars and has a host of his own restaurants worldwide such as Pollen Street Social in London and Singapore and Table No.1 in Shanghai, has just launched his newest restaurant on Hong Kong’s Ship Street. Described as “the deformalizing of fine dining,” 22 Ships serves up modern Spanish tapas and follows the increasing trend for a no-reservations-plus-no-service charge policy. The menu includes Spanish breakfast, chorizo and potato; char-grilled Ibérico pork and foie gras burgers. As Atherton is famous for desserts, you should also save space for creations such as the olive oil brioche with chocolate ganache and sea-salt, or the crispy lemon meringue with cucumber sorbet and gin jelly. 22 Ship St., Wanchai, Mon-Sat 12-3pm; 6-11pm. www.22ships.hk

Brickhouse We all know that cool restaurants these days have to be difficult to find and preferably hidden up a back alley somewhere—so new Mexican joint Brickhouse, by this very definition, is the epitome of cool. Found down a dirty alley, they’ve already generated three hour long queues from those desperate to sample their dizzyingly colorful dishes that are packed full of savory, sweet, zesty and spicy flavors. Factor in the friendly service and the no-frills no-reservation policy and Brickhouse has come up with a winning formula. G/F, 20A D’Aguilar St., Central, Mon-Thu 5pm-3am; Fri-Sat 5pm-5am. www.brickhouse.com.hk

Tiong bahru rd

Eng hoon st

Seng poh ln

Chay yan st

Flea & Trees

Nana & Bird

Thrive

Bhutan Shop

Eu chin st

40 Hands

Guan chuan st

Book Actually Strangelets

Nostalgia Hotel

Eng watt st

Yong siak st

Open Door Policy

Lim liak st

Moh guan terrace

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EAT

SINGAPORE

40 Hands #01-12, 78 Yong Siak St., +65-6225-8545 Unbeatable coffee and a convivial vibe (they’re packed every weekend) continue to make this joint the place to see and be seen in.

Those in the know have always loved TB for its white-washed Art Deco architecture and some of the best local food around. Yet over the past year or two, so many funky cafés and stores have opened their doors that it now vies with Duxton Hill and the Arab Quarter for the title of Singapore’s trendiest neighborhood. Here are some good reasons to spend your weekend there.

Open Door Policy 19 Yong Siak St., +65-6221-9307 A newbie from chef-owner Ryan Clift of the Tippling Club, who’s partnered up with Spa Esprit and Harry Grover of 40 Hands, this casual bistro is already drawing in the crowds.

—Tiong Bahru

SHOP

Drips #01-05, 82 Tiong Poh Rd., +65-6222-0400 This old-school-styled café and bakery is one of the newer additions here, dedicated to whipping up sweet and savory treats as well as coffee standards.

Nana & Bird #01-02, 79 Chay Yan St., +65-9117-0430 What started out as a pop-up concept store is now a staple among trendy young things. Highlights here include accessories by local brand By Invite Only and ready to wear by emerging Guangzhou label aijek. It only opens on weekends, 11am-7pm. Flea & Trees #01-10 Blk. 68, Seng Poh Lane, +65-81391133 Opened late last year, this is a treasure trove of eclectic, mostly one-of-a-kind, vintage furniture, clothes, accessories, books, ceramics, homeware and magazines. It’s Po yan Terence Yeung founded by designer and his wife Bella Koh.

Tai Ping Shan st

Hot Spot Hollywood Center Hollywood Building

Haji Gallery Homei

Teakha

Ikyu Just when you thought Tiong Bahru couldn’t get any more hip, along comes new Japanese restaurant IKYU (pronounced e-q). Helmed by executive chef Takuma Seki, formerly of Marina Bay Sands’ Hide Yamamot, the 54-seater venue is decked out with industrial chic elements galore and offers up an exciting mix of contemporary Japanese dishes and a great selection of sake. It’s a charming spot to tuck into modern Japanese bites. Plus, it’s not everywhere you find such an engaging chef; Seki-san is a riot. 5 Yong Siak St., Tiong Bahru. +656223-9003. www.ikyu.com.sg

Knock box Chun5village II Bangsar

Hollywood rd.

Tallensla floral art

Square st

Blake garden

Strangelets 7 Yong Siak St., +65-6222-1456 Having moved from Amoy Street, Strangelets is still one of the best spots in town for cool lamps, accessories, bags, notebooks and other unusual objets d’art.

The Orange Thimble #01-68, Blk. 56, Eng Hoon St., +65-97503989 From the people behind the old White Canvas Gallery this is a great place for brunch or an espresso. Highlights include its breakfast burger and the BBC (bacon, brie and cranberry), with artworks adorning its wall and a nice open space out back.

HOT SPOT

La Cantine This new restaurant is the latest brainchild of Michelin-starred Bruno Ménard. With elegant furnishings such as pale wood flooring and chairs, alongside quirky elements like red, inverted rooster lights hanging from the ceiling it’s a pretty feast for the eyes without being overbearing. A modern brasserie through and through, dishes range from starters including Ménard’s signature Cévennes onion soup on foie gras royale with truffle-scented Chantilly to filling mains like caramelized pork belly with roasted garlic. #01-01 Asia Square Tower 1, 8 Marina View, +65-6690-7567. Open Mon-Fri noon2:30pm, 6:30-10pm. www.lacantine.sg

LATEST COLLECTION 2012 AT SEASONS SHOWROOM

asamilano was founded in 1998 by Anna, Carlo and Elena Turati with the aim of creating a home project of international scope. It made its debut at the Milan Furniture Fair in April of that year. The Turati family has worked for generations in the furnishing field.

In 1929, grandfather Carlo founded with his sons a handicraft business that soon developed into a small furniture company. In the 60s, following the change of taste and style recorded on the market, Giuseppe (called Peppino by his friends) gave the company a new course and created Tisettanta, involving internationally renowned architects such as Gae Aulenti, Vico Magistretti, Angelo Mangiarotti, Carlo Bartoli, Annig Sarian, Antonio Citterio. In the family’s Company, Giuseppe’s daughter Anna manages the creative area together with her father, while Carlo manages the commercial area. Once left the family’s Company in 1997, the following year Anna, Carlo and Elena decided, with their father to create Casamilano,a Company that has been able over the years to impose itself and develop worldwide a selected distribution channel. Casamilano cooperates with international designers, whose creative style corresponds to the features of its project. Casamilano collections, rigorously made in Italy, combine design elegance and functionality. The choice of wisely mixed materials and the care of details, produce unique objects for the contemporary home.

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fashionable and fun

ood interior design is all about reflecting the character and tastes of the owner, which is why the home of husband and wife Ben and Shaya Na Nakorn is such a fun and stylish space. As a member of the ItalAsia wine importing family and as the owner of his own restaurant, Zucca on Sukhumvit 19, Ben certainly knows all about the hospitality business. When he’s not hard at work, Ben likes nothing better than entertaining in the comfort of his Sukhumvit condo. That’s why the space contains some essential elements for what he calls the ‘Bachelor Party Lifestyle,’ including the sociability engendered by the long bar counter in the living room and the specially soundproofed home entertainment room, ideal for late night partying. The result is a condominium that feels both homely and hip, warm and welcoming but also at the cutting edge of style and trends. Quirky items, from the Fornasetti vases and a bright red toy car, sit alongside more classic contemporary pieces like the expansive Italian sofa.

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Where did you get your style inspiration? Ben: I was in England about five to six years ago and I really liked the geometric minimalist theme, while in Thailand it was all about contemporary style. I think modern minimalist design is beautiful, creates a sense of space and doesn’t go out of trend. You can simply adjust the look by changing an iconic piece. What are your top tips when designing a space? Ben: The room should be unique; everything has to follow the concept and tone, except there should be one piece to catch the attention. For the living room, the Samurai lamp by Vibia (one of the only two in Thailand) is the centerpiece. It’s also the most modern piece in the room. What‘s your favorite piece and why? Shaya: It has to be the Fornasetti vase. When I saw it, I knew I just had to have it and it fits perfectly in the design space. Why did you choose the team at Seasons to help furnish your home? Ben: It is because Seasons contains so many of our favorite brands. The imported furniture is very beautiful and stylish. It’s also a one-stop service; you can get everything you want and their team understands the customers’ needs.

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TOP TIPS: A: The long central breakfast bar acts as a centerpiece, creates lots of additional surface space and also helps to delineate different sections of the room.

B: The home theatre room uses indirect lighting cosy and dark colored tones to give a sense of mood and space. C: Quirky accessories like this black and white cutout cat add an element of fun and humor to a space and prevent it from looking too one dimensional and cold. D: The use of highlight pieces like this striking Fornasetti vase lets you add interest and excitement to a minimal space but can be easily altered to reflect changing tastes or styles.