Sophisticated Living Chicago July/August 2018

{Chicago’s Finest}

July/August 2018

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{Chicago’s Finest}

July/August 2018

July/August 2018

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on the cover: The marble-topped bar at Tied House is Lakeview’s “it” spot for smart sips and food courtesy of James Beard Award-winning chef Debbie Gold (“House Rules”).

Photo by Anthony Tahlier

Sweet Memphis sandal, $865, by Pierre Hardy at Neapolitan Collection, Winnetka, 847.441.7784. For more of summer’s hottest fashion, art and interior design trends, turn to “Sophisticated Source.”

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FOR ART’S SAKE Chicago artist Allison Zisook breathes new life into dated designer handbags by tagging your bag with one-of-a-kind, wearable art

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TAILOR MADE Designer Antonio Berardi gives us a sneak peek of his pre-fall 2018 collection—and talks divine inspiration

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I WANT IT ALL Luxury women’s boutique VMR moves into a larger, street-level showroom on Oak Street and wows with collections from Y/Project, Balmain, RtA and more

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GLASSES FOR GOOD Ellison Eyewear brings Mediterranean style and craftsmanship to the sunglasses market while giving back to those in need

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THERE’S NO PLACE LIKE ROME Atop the Spanish Steps in Rome, the Hotel Hassler steals our hearts with 1940s glam and first-class amenities

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HIT THE DECK From patios to poolside, check out our hit list for al fresco-ing in style

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BIBLIOTAPH Marilyn Monroe, Prince, John and Yoko… Read on for our favorite tomes celebrating icons we love

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FROM TEE TO SHINING SEA Gear, apparel and accessories for summer’s leisurely pursuits

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DON’T KNOCK IT UNTIL YOU’VE TRIED IT What to consider if you’re ready to take your grandmother’s china to auction

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BACK IN THE SADDLE High-performance gear for hitting the open road on two wheels

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ITALIAN JOB The 2018 Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este draws the automotive world’s top connoisseurs

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DRIVE TIME Our roundup of precision timepieces for serious auto enthusiasts

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For the master bedroom inside Fredman Design Group’s latest project in Harbor Country, a

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PARADISE FOUND

peaceful respite was created from soothing tones, including this desk featuring custom cabinetry

Check into the Four Seasons Resort Lāna’i for unparalleled

and a rustic slab of wood (“Harmony in Harbor Country”). Photo by Eric Hausman

beauty on the shores of Hulopo‘e Bay

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SOPHISTICATED SOURCE Eight pages of summer’s boldest and brightest fashion, art and interior design trends

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ART AND SOUL Chicagoan Laura Rashid, cofounder of Revolving Collections Gallery, proves that art curation is serious business

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HARMONY IN HARBOR COUNTRY From high design to sentimental touches, Fredman Design Group flawlessly appoints a beach house on Lake Michigan

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HOUSE RULES Cool design and a flavor-packed menu by James Beard Award-winning chef Debbie Gold converge at Tied House, Lakeview’s latest hotspot

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WHAT A GEM Jewell Events Catering celebrates 50 years—and raises the bar on green practices for Chicago’s catering scene

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CULTURAL EVOLUTION Woodlawn’s Experimental Station grows its incubator for artists, orgs and businesses committed to cultural change on Chicago’s South Side

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CALENDAR SL’s not-to-miss list of summer events for giving back and good times

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SOPHISTICATED SOCIETY Chicago’s poshest parties, from philanthropy to fashion

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SOPHISTICATED WOMAN Melissa Skoog, the founder and president of Skoog Collective, talks shop—and living her best life after Vogue

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CUSTOM HOMES DESIGNED AND BUILT for a Beautiful Life

BGD&C DESIGN | BUILD | LIVE

ARCHITECTURE| DESIGN | CONSTRUCTION | BGDCHOMES.COM | 312.255.8300 BGD&C is an affiliate of The Bowen Group LLC, a licensed Illinois Real Estate broker representing various properties owned by BGD&C and its affiliates. The principals of BGD&C, The Bowen Group LLC, and their affiliates are licensed IL brokers.

PUBLISHER Alison Victoria CREATIVE DIRECTOR Bridget Daley EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Elise Hofer Shaw DIRECTOR OF LUXURY BRANDS Mandy Laneve ——————————————— ART DIRECTOR Jason Yann CONTRIBUTORS Writers Hilary Boyajian Marissa Conrad Ruth Crnkovich Colin Dennis Chloe Geller Anita Heriot Andre James Amelia Jeffers Tina Kourasis Caylee Matthews Sally Meyer Taylor Morgan Alexandra Sabbag Lisa Shames Bridget Williams Photographers Jordan Avery Greg Chmiel Diego Diaz J. Michael Eugenio James Gustin for Fig Media Jason W. Kaumeyer Maria Ponce Anthony Tahlier Y.O! Photography Photo Editing Stephen Luxem ADVERTISING SALES OFFICE 937.672.6448 ——————————————— SOPHISTICATED LIVING MEDIA Eric Williams - CEO Bridget Williams - President Sophisticated Living® is published by AVMM Media Group, LLC and is independently owned and operated. Sophisticated Living® is a registered trademark of Williams Media, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Sophisticated Living® is published six times a year. All images and editorial are the property of AVMM Media Group, LLC and cannot be reproduced in whole or in part without written permission. Annual subscription fees are $25.00; please add $5 for subscriptions outside the US. Address all subscription inquiries to the website slmag.net. Telephone 937.672.6448.

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SOME VIEWS ARE BE T TER THAN OTHERS

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From the Publisher

Portrait by Maria Ponce

With summer in full bloom, I feel alive again! I’m ready to shed my cool-weather uniform of workout gear layered under a leather jacket and finally frolic around this city in floral dresses and nude heels. I’m ready to sip Aperol Spritzes al fresco, host parties on our new rooftop, steal away on lazy long weekends in Michigan... and wrap Season 1 of my new HGTV show that’s airing in January! Can you tell that I’m just a little bit excited?

Summer also marks my annual pilgrimage to Greece—my motherland. At the top of my packing list? Ellison Eyewear sunglasses. I love them because each pair is handmade in Greece and because the craftsmanship is flawless. And at only $95 to $105, I can let loose on my vacation and not worry too much about losing or breaking them. But best of all, as EditorIn-Chief Elise Hofer Shaw outlines in this issue’s piece “Glasses for Good,” the brand’s socially driven business model is beyond commendable. Since 2014, Ellison Eyewear has provided more than 3,500 people with glasses, built more than 40 homes in Latin America through its Ellison Travel Journeys missions, and even built an Ellison Marketplace in Greece, where all food and self-care donations go to the country’s refugee camps. Style and impact? Now that’s something I can get behind.

But back to those Aperol Spritzes… Tied House has one of Chicago’s chicest patios for creative cocktails and bites with big flavor (“House Rules”). The new restaurant from Audiotree Group, the people behind Schubas Tavern and Lincoln Hall, breathes new life into Lakeview’s hospitality scene—and Gensler Chicago knocked the indoor-outdoor design out of the park.

From the tufted leather banquettes to the copper finishes and midcentury modern furniture, it’s an oasis amid a sea of sports bars. And James Beard Award-winning chef Debbie Gold’s inspired menu definitely doesn’t disappoint. Try the mackerel that’s aged for 12 days in beeswax. Trust me, it’s heaven.

And I can’t conclude my note without giving a shout-out to my dearest (and coolest) friend, Laura Rashid, the subject of this issue’s profile piece, “Art and Soul.” The Revolving Collections Gallery cofounder—and the lead art consultant/curator for the new Hotel Zachary in Wrigleyville—Rashid has reached new heights in her career and I couldn’t be more proud of her accomplishments. As an artist herself, she approaches every RCG project with a keen eye for curation as an extension of a business’ branding and marketing. And with a client list that includes restaurants like BLVD and Bellemore in Chicago, and Morton’s the Steakhouse in Vegas, as well as hotels like Kimpton Hotel Allegro and Hotel Palomar, and now the Chicago Cubs, she’s definitely one to watch.

We hope you enjoy the new issue, and every minute of fun this summer has to offer. It doesn’t last long, so take it all in—one sunshine-drenched street fest, afternoon at the beach and Aperol Spritz at a time.

Alison Victoria Owner & Publisher alison@slmag.net

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From the Editor-In-Chief

Portrait by Y.O! Photography Hair and makeup by Drop By Gorgeous

Architect Frank Lloyd Wright said, “Study nature, love nature, stay close to nature. It will never fail you.” I couldn’t agree more. At this very moment, I’m sitting in my favorite rocking chair on the front porch of my favorite inn in Lakeside, Mich. The only sounds are the quiet clacking of my keyboard as I write this note and the maple trees rustling in the breeze. Just over the bluff is Lake Michigan.

Sometimes, on a really clear day, you can faintly make out the Chicago skyline on the other side.

I love my city—truly, madly and deeply. But Michigan was my first home, where I was born and raised, and being able to come here on the weekends during the summer to catch my breath and detach from the hustle and bustle, to sit in the warm sand with my dog, Bubs, and watch my 6-yearold daughter play in the waves, is a reprieve from urban living that I look forward to. So it comes as no surprise that this issue’s home feature, detailing a charmingly appointed lake house that’s just a stone’s throw from where I’m sitting right now, had me at “beach access” (“Harmony In Harbor Country”).

When I actually saw the home—its magical front garden path with wooden arbor, its pool peppered with Adirondack chairs, and room after room boasting trance-inducing views of Lake Michigan—I knew the owners had found their own slice of heaven. And thanks to a renovation and redesign courtesy of Fredman Design Group that strikes a balance between chic and comfort (think furniture by Holly Hunt, area rugs by Lapchi, a custom steel-and-leather staircase by MILK Design and indoor/outdoor upholstery that can hold up against sandy bottoms), the family can now spend their downtime doing little more than making memories.

I like to imagine Wright walking through the Michigan prairie grasses, finding inspiration for his next project. But I know that, like me, he was a town and country person, that the yin and yang of living a balanced life between his beloved city and the Midwest countryside was his happy place. Of Chicago, he said, “Eventually, I think Chicago will be the most beautiful, great city left in the world.” No doubt, if he were alive today, Wright would be impressed by the work of the Experimental Station toward that end (“Cultural Evolution”). The Woodlawn-based nonprofit is an incubator for programming aimed at nurturing a healthy, independent cultural infrastructure on the South Side—and it’s working. My favorite arm of its programming is Blackstone Bicycle Works. What began as a bike shop that provided an earn-a-bike program for neighborhood kids has grown into a program that puts these kids on a pathway to life, college and career success.

Blackstone has even garnered the attention of Shinola, the Detroit-based luxury goods brand, and has teamed up with the brand on educational collaborations and fundraisers for its kids.

See, this is what I love about Chicago and Chicagoans—and what will always brings me back: Community, and a shared commitment to leaving this city better than whence we found it. I hope you like the new issue. May it inspire you to broaden your horizons and get out and do some good. And, if given the opportunity to sit still and watch the sun set on the horizon in Harbor Country, definitely enjoy that too.

Elise Hofer Shaw Editor-In-Chief elise@slmag.net

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THE L ADY-DATEJUST The classically feminine Rolex, sized and styled to perfectly match its wearer since 1957.

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Contributors

“VMR is the kind of boutique experience I crave because the collection is so focused,” says contributing writer Hilary Boyajian, who wrote this issue’s fashion piece on the showroom’s new street-level digs on Oak Street (“I Want It All”). “It has become my go-to for easyto-wear, polished pieces with a progressive edge from designers like Balmain, Giamba and Off-White c/o Virgil Abloh. Owner Tina Kourasis and Creative Director Mark Gill know exactly what their clients are looking for, and I love the risks they are taking with their buying process. The new store marks an exciting time for fashion in Chicago.”

“It’s incredible how one piece of furniture can capture the tone of an entire home,” says Marissa Conrad, who wrote about Fredman Design Group’s latest renovation project, a stunning Michigan beach home, for this issue (“Harmony in Harbor Country”). “Fredman CEO Terri Crittenden and her team nailed this across the board, but I can’t stop thinking about the cocktail table they commissioned from furniture designer Holly Hunt. Everything about it, from its soft, sandy color to its size—enormous!—makes me feel exactly how the homeowner wants her guests to feel: connected to nature, comfortable and warmly welcome in her home.”

“This issue’s Sophisticated Woman, Melissa Skoog, is a force in the PR industry, and I’m fortunate to count her as a friend,” says Creative Director Bridget Daley. “We met a few years ago and had a six degrees of separation moment, realizing we had much more in common than just business and enjoying a fine glass of wine. From her days at Vogue as Anna Wintour’s assistant to building her public relations firm into a powerhouse that boasts clients like Tiffany & Co. and Shinola, Skoog is a consummate professional—and she’s just getting started.”

“Melissa showed up ready to work in her tailored blue dress and snakeskin pumps,” says Fig Media owner and photographer James Gustin, who shot Chicago PR maven Melissa Skoog for this issue’s Sophisticated Woman column. “Hardworking, charming, funny and pleasantly self-deprecating, she looked like a million bucks with the Art Institute of Chicago’s gardens as the backdrop for her portrait. After spending just an hour with Skoog, it’s easy to see why her high-profile fashion clients put their trust in her.”

“When I think of Antonio Berardi, I think of beautiful fabrics and perfect fits,” says contributing writer Tina Kourasis, who interviewed the Milan-based designer about style, inspiration and everyday life for this issue’s rapid-fire Q&A (“Tailor Made”). “Sexy but appropriate, his clothes are loved by women of all ages.” Kourasis is the owner of VMR, the luxury women’s boutique on Oak Street that carries Yeezy, Rachel Zoe, Zimmermann, Y/Project and more.

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TAILOR MADE

By Tina Kourasis / Portrait by Diego Diaz

Take a step back, and it’s the color-splashed jacquard dresses and outerwear that will catch your eye first from Milan-based designer Antonio Berardi’s pre-fall 2018 collection. Inspired by Japanese manga cartoons, the swirls of flora and fauna are hard to ignore. But upon closer inspection, it’s his fresh take on suiting separates (a plaid notch-collar blazer and wide-legged trousers stand out) and cropped cable-knit sweaters that come into focus.

You see, first and foremost, Berardi is a tailor. Take for example this season’s funnel-neck, asymmetrical, double-breasted cape coat in royal blue. Or—wait for it—a blue-on-black, high-waisted, pleated maxi skirt that pairs effortlessly with a navy turtleneck sweater and a bright red lip. So take a closer look—and then read our rapid-fire Q&A with Berardi for an up close and personal look at what inspires the designer on the daily. sl

What is the first thing you do when you wake up in the morning?

Usually prepare a pot of coffee and breakfast for Bruno, my bull terrier.

What is your proudest career moment?

Having Prince sit at one of my shows.

What is one thing you can’t live without?

My partner, Alfredo.

Most sophisticated city?

Venice.

What is your favorite piece in your closet?

My father’s double-breasted, sheepskin coat.

The place you go for utter peace?

My home in Lincolnshire, England.

What is the most elegant gift to give or receive?

Perfume. It is perhaps the hardest—but most rewarding—gift, and one that has to be thought about.

Name your top three vacation must-haves.

Mouchoir de Monsieur cologne by Guerlain, oversized white dress shirts and khaki cargo shorts.

Who inspires you?

My mother, Prince, John Galliano and Azzedine Alaïa.

Most sophisticated structure or building?

The Niterói Contemporary Art Museum designed by Oscar Niemeyer.

Who is your muse?

She who is not afraid.

Who is the most sophisticated person of all time?

Greta Garbo.

Who is your dream client?

That person we have yet to dress.

What are you reading right now?

Herculine Barbin by Michel Foucault.

Cocktail of choice?

Vodka tonic.

Coffee or tea?

Coffee in the morning. English breakfast tea with a splash of cold milk for the rest of the day.

Guilty pleasure?

Spiritus Sancti candles by Cire Trudon.

Favorite country to visit?

Argentina.

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Where are your favorite places to go when you come to Chicago?

VMR boutique and Promontory Point on Lake Michigan.

No one should ever wear...

What they are told they should be wearing.

Everyone should own...

A beautifully tailored jacket.

Most universally flattering color...

Navy blue.

Current must-haves from your collection?

A bias-cut velvet and Chantilly lace gown, a deep-V collarless tuxedo jacket and pants, and a black cinzed-cotton pleated-back shirt.

Describe your brand in three words.

Tailored, luxurious and feminine.

How do you define ‘sophistication’?

Never having to try too hard.

Antonio Berardi is available at VMR, 49 E. Oak St., 312.330.3778, vmrchicago.com, and Saks Fifth Avenue stores.

ANTONIO BERARDI Looks from Antonio Berardi’s pre-fall 2018 collection

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The boutique’s black-and-yellow wall art is by Chicago artist lefty OUT there.

I WANT IT ALL

VMR, Chicago’s luxury women’s boutique on Oak Street, expands its footprint— and its highly edited mix of designer clothing and accessories.

By Hilary Boyajian / Photography by Greg Chmiel and Y.O! Photography On any given day at VMR’s new store on Oak Street, you’re likely to find owner Tina Kourasis and Creative Director Mark Gill playing dress-up with the merchandise. Today, the fashion-forward friends are examining a black, fringe-trimmed Balmain dress and an Isabel Marant double-breasted metallic blazer, a potential pairing for a longtime client. And since VMR moved its digs in April from a seventh-floor space at 34 E. Oak St. to its current street-level home at 49 E. Oak St., tucked away between Escada and Lalique, there’s a lot more to play with.

At more than 2,000 square feet, and with a custom new design courtesy of Chicago interior designer Marshall Erb, the atmosphere is as fashionable as the clothes—ranging from denim and streetwear to luxe designer womenswear and accessories— hanging from powder-coated black racks by black velvet hangers from Italy. “We knew that this space had to convey how our brand has progressed over the last five years, from minimalist to something more directional,” says Kourasis. “We have many designers that are described as ‘disruptive,’ and we wanted the new space to express that point of view.” For those of us who don’t sit front row at Fashion Week, think labels like Off-White c/o Virgil Abloh, Y/Project and Yeezy.

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It’s not an entirely a brand-new direction for VMR, which has always had a reputation for mixing envelope-pushing designers like Unravel Project and Dsquared2 in with labels that reflect a softer sensibility like Ellery, N21, Rachel Zoe and Zimmermann. Since 2013, VMR had styled clients by appointment only from a private showroom. But when Kourasis and Gill opened a pop-up shop at the Waldorf Astoria last year, the street-level retail experience instigated the move to a more visible Gold Coast storefront with regular hours, open to all. It took a full year to find the perfect location—just a half-block east of the old showroom in the former Colletti Gallery space.

The gallery’s black-and-white checkered marble floor is the only pre-existing feature that remains, and was the inspiration for the boutique’s dramatic artwork by Chicago street artist Lefty Out There (aka Franco Campanella), who was commissioned to tag the space with his signature amorphic blobs and abstract squiggles in black, white and canary yellow.

Graphic is a good way to describe some of VMR’s edgiest looks.

In the front room, statement pieces from Fendi and Antonio Berardi get top billing. (And check out the Lefty Out There x RtA custom leather jackets designed exclusively for VMR, each one hand-painted

Creative Director Mark Gill in VMR’s accessories salon

Tina Kourasis, owner of VMR on Oak Street

A fall 2018 look

by Nili Lotan

A fall 2018 look

by Isabel Marant

A prefall 2018 look by Off-White c/o Virgil Abloh

with his artwork.) There’s also a stunning shoes and accessories salon boasting sporty, pointed-toe booties by Yeezy and buttery leather bags

by Balmain, not to mention a private fitting area for one-on-one styling and appointments with VMR’s expert tailor. You see, Kourasis and Gill know a thing or two about retail, and that layout plays an important role. Before VMR, Gill sharpened his sartorial skills in New York as a personal stylist and as a record-breaking salesperson at Jil Sander.

“We both felt a void in Chicago for real clothes—multifunctional pieces you can wear over and over again,” says Kourasis of VMR’s early days. “It’s easy to find a dress for a black-tie event, but what about day-to-day? The department stores have so much inventory that it becomes visually overwhelming. We wanted to use Mark’s special eye to simplify the whole process, and I wanted to select the designers based on personal experience and research, research, research.” These days, the duo travels to Paris six times a year, sitting front and center at Fashion Week, surveying the street style scene and visiting showrooms.

In June, they had 18 appointments in three days in preparation for fall, including meetings with Parisian label Giamba and Philosophy di Lorenzo Serafini out of Italy, two labels they’ve recently picked up. New York is on the pair’s schedule twice a year, too, for denim brands like Frame and Current/Elliott, and Gill’s favorite designer, Tomas Maier.

And because Kourasis knows her clients like to run around town in more than Lululemon, an edgy athleisure collection from Australian brand P.E. Nation has been added to VMR’s offerings as well for customers looking for that street-meets-sportswear vibe. “I feel like we are ahead of the game in terms of understanding how people want to dress right now,” says Kourasis confidently, hanging a black fluted-sleeve blouse by Berardi. “There are countless cases where we have introduced designers two years before they land at Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue or Nordstrom.” With a growing e-commerce presence on Farfetch, the London-based luxury fashion source, and more hush-hush designer collaborations in the works, she’ll get no argument here.

“We are in the business of selling clothes. We’re not going to sell you an art project or the must-have trend of the moment,” adds Kourasis, unfolding a matte black shopping bag punched-up with VMR’s new electric-yellow logo and ‘I Want It All’ brazenly printed on the inside. “We will help you identify your aesthetic and build your wardrobe with the pieces we hand-select in Paris. But we’re not stuffy. VMR is fun, fresh and stress-free. Our clients, who become our friends, make themselves at home.” sl VMR, 49 E. Oak St., 312.330.3778, vmrchicago.com

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Where Design is Second Nature

At the intersection of three celebrated Chicago neighborhoods — Lincoln Park, the Gold Coast and Old Town — the 32 signature residences at 1550 N Clark Street offer urban living and park-front tranquility.

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All floorplans shown are for illustrative purposes only. Floorplans may not depict final design of units as constructed and may not be drawn to scale. All sketches, renderings, materials, plans, specifications, terms, prices, conditions and statements, including estimated timeframes and dates, contained herein are proposed only, and developer reserves the right to make modifications in its sole discretion and without prior notice. All photographs and renderings are merely intended as illustrations of the activities and concepts depicted therein as interpreted by the artists. Developer makes no representations regarding any view and/or exposure to light at any time including any existing or future construction by either owner or a third party. Square footage is approximate and may be based on various measurement methodologies, subject to construction variances and tolerances, as well as redesign, and may vary from floor to floor. Obtain the property report or its equivalent by federal, state or local law and read it before signing anything. No federal, state or local agency has judged the merits or value, if any, of this property. Where used, developer shall mean 1550 North Clark (Chicago) Owner LLC and its affiliated entities and their respective managers, members, directors, shareholders, partners, agents, affiliates and employees. Developer # 2551714.

GLASSES FOR GOOD Chicago’s Ellison Eyewear throws shade at the eyewear monopoly—and brings Mediterranean style and craftsmanship to the masses who want to look good while doing good.

By Elise Hofer Shaw / Portrait by Christopher Free / Product photography by Y.O! Photography

Chicagoan Aristotle Loumis, founder and CEO of Ellison Eyewear

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In 2011, conflicted about what he wanted to do with the rest of his life, Chicagoan Aristotle Loumis pushed the pause button on pursuing a higher education and started researching humanitarian organizations, considering taking a break and volunteering.

During his research on Doctors Without Borders, he came across the Himalayan Cataract Project, an organization devoted to establishing a sustainable infrastructure for eye care in the Himalayas. “I had no idea that widespread blindness was such an epidemic among impoverished countries, and a light went on,” says Loumis. “‘If TOMS can do a shoe for a shoe,’ I thought, ‘Why can’t I do an eye for an eye?’”

Turns out Loumis was about to get quite the education after all. “I learned that eyewear is the biggest monopoly out there, owned by two companies,” he says. “I also learned that there is no fundamental reason why a pair of plastic glasses should cost $600. I knew I could make a better product at a better price and have impact as well.”

Fast-forward to 2018 and Ellison Eyewear 2.0’s giveback model has evolved for even greater impact. Here’s how it works: All 10 of Ellison’s eyeglass and sunglass styles are handmade in Greece with materials sourced from Italy (think acetate and silver and gold hinges). They cost between $95 and $125. And instead of a onefor-one model, Ellison now uses the power of its social platforms to create a community of civic-minded customers and investors who crowdfund the company’s humanitarian efforts and mission trips. And it’s working: Since 2014, the brand has provided more than 3,500 people with glasses, built more than 40 homes in Latin America through its Ellison Travel Journeys missions, and has even built the Ellison Marketplace in Greece, where all of the food and selfcare donations go to the country’s refugee camps. “We filter though all of the junk that’s donated and, instead of handing out plastic bags with a random toothbrush and a can of food inside, have created a humane shopping experience for life essentials that creates jobs and job training for the refugees who are hired to run the market.”

Left to right: Hugo computer glasses, $105; Hudson sunglasses, $120; Howard sunglasses, $105.

And just like that the socially driven business model for Ellison Eyewear was born. At the time of purchase, customers would get to choose to direct a portion of their proceeds to one of three initiatives to help stop preventable blindness: providing eyeglasses to children in need, training eye care personnel to provide primary/preventative care, or building eye care centers in areas of need.

Loumis dropped out of the University of Iowa and moved to Milan and Greece for four years, from 2011 to 2014, to learn about and set up the manufacturing end of the business. Turns out Loumis is a quick study: He learned about the eyeglasses market’s inefficiencies, and that he wanted to create a quality product that’s humane in the way that it’s made (read: no sweat shops or child labor) yet still affordable to the masses. Unfortunately, he also learned that the big eyewear manufacturers had a monopoly on distribution, too. “In the beginning, we quite literally sold the glasses out of my truck,” says Loumis. “We crossed the U.S., from coast to coast, four times those first two years.”

Today, Ellison Eyewear is available in 30 boutiques worldwide and is about to open its first brick-and-mortar store in New York’s Meatpacking District—and big-time investors are taking notice. Ellison is currently closing on a partnership with Chicago entrepreneur, fashion mogul and TV personality Marcus Lemonis.

Wondering how Ellison Eyewear stacks up against Warby Parker’s buy-a-pair, give-a-pair program? “Giving a kid a pair of glasses is great, but giving a kid a pair of glasses and a home is better,” says Loumis. Better still, with an entry-level price point that’s under $100 for handmade shades, it’s less painful if you lose your Ellisons or, say, your kids break them, than it would be if you had paid upwards of $400 for a designer brand. “Life is about the experience,” says Loumis. “No one should have to be worried about losing a pair of sunglasses that cost a small fortune when they should be making memories and enjoying the journey.” sl Ellison Eyewear is available at Marcus, 110 E. Delaware Plaza, 312.255.1721, and at wearellison.com.

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Hotel Hassler occupies a prime piece of Roman real estate at the top of the Spanish Steps and next to the church of the Santissima Trinità dei Monti.

THERE’S NO PLACE LIKE ROME Hotel Hassler is an old friend in the Eternal City Written by Bridget Williams Look deeper. See beyond the handsomely attired doorman, the marble floors polished to a mirror-shine, the antique tapestries, the fine silk drapery, the monogrammed china, and the other accoutrements of a five-star hotel, to find what really makes Hotel Hassler sparkle: Roberto E. Wirth, a fifth-generation hotelier and owner/General Manager of this iconic property, which is enviably located at the terminus of Rome’s iconic Spanish Steps.

Wirth’s quiet, welcoming, and gracious presence is palpable throughout every inch of the property, which opened in 1893 and is

a member of The Leading Hotels of the World. “Rome has my heart,” said Wirth, who championed having the area around the Spanish Steps designated as a pedestrian-only zone. Born deaf, Wirth has never used his disability as a crutch, rather he has exhibited extreme resilience in the face of adversity, which has enabled him to become one of Europe’s top hoteliers, as well as a preeminent advocate for improving the lives of deaf and deaf-blind children throughout Italy.

Reflecting the vibrancy and excitement of the parade of humanity that flocks to the famous travertine staircase day and

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Terrace of the Villa Medici Penthouse Suite

night, each of the 79 rooms and 13 suites in Hotel Hassler are unique in their design, but share a common usage of original art, antiques, treasures such as French crystal, and the most up-to-date in-room technology. Stepping inside the vestibule of my room (no. 723), I was greeted by my reflection presented in a six-foot-tall Venetian mirror surmounting a marquetry console with ormolu trim. A pair of velvet bergères with nailhead trim were positioned at the rise to a sitting room with access to a small balcony overlooking Rome’s rooftops, a Jenga-like configuration of architecture spanning several centuries. A pair of crimson crystal bedside lamps provided a dramatic pop of color in the otherwise black-and-white scheme. Beautifully perfumed “Amorvero” toiletries, created by Wirth specifically for the property, adorned the vanity in the American-sized bathroom.

A trio of recently refurbished Executive Suites are quite lavish. The Villa Medici Suite boasts a terrace large enough to suit an emperor, while the dining room of the Hassler Penthouse Suite is outfitted with bone china designed specifically for this suite. Also recently renovated is the Hassler’s Michelin-starred restaurant Imàgo, which marked its 10th anniversary in 2017.

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splendors at your feet, while exotic spices culled from near and far puts the world on your plate. A native of Naples, Executive Chef Francesco Apreda offers diners two distinct culinary experiences under the Imàgo umbrella: one focused on traditional Italian specialties, and the other more globally influenced, with an emphasis on Japanese and Indian cuisines. Imàgo’s polenta bread is award-winning, and equally laudable is their take on the classic cacio e pepe. Made with risotto and white sesame, the wonderful richness of the creamy risotto is a perfect foil to the bite of the pepper. While it seems easy on paper, Wirth remarked that not many chefs can perfect the dish. “With so few ingredients, proper preparation is supreme,” he explained.

Thoughtfully preserved in all its 1940s glam is the cozy, wood paneled Hassler Bar, reserved for guests and locals in-the-know.

Famous imbibers have included Audrey Hepburn, George Clooney, and Princess Diana. Mr. Wirth recounted that the People’s Princess told him the Hassler Bellini was the best she’d ever tasted. During my stay, I developed a particular penchant for the unique flavor of Blavod black vodka in the Black Hassler martini as well as their Summer in Palm Court cocktail, a beguiling and refreshing blend of gin, limoncello, St. Germain, lime and soda.

Grand Deluxe Suite

Octopus, seaweed and roots from Imàgo

Executive Chef Francesco Apreda

Executive Suite

Parmesan cappellotti pasta "Double Umami" from Imàgo

The Hassler Bar

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The Fontana del Pantheon is located in front of the Roman Pantheon in the Piazza della Rotonda.

Campo de' Fiori

Daytime view from Imàgo

Reflecting Wirth’s unwavering commitment to excellence in all areas of the guest experience, there is a calculated thoughtfulness to the service. One afternoon I left my sunglasses on the entry table in my room, and when I returned they were polished to a shine with a signature Hassler cleaning cloth neatly folded alongside. A cold water and a fresh towel always magically appeared within reach at the apropos moment when I visited the 3rd floor fitness studio within the Amorvero SPA. A lovely terrace can be accessed through the fitness room, and the view will take your breath away if your workout hasn’t already.

The Hassler’s location makes it the ideal spot for both strategic sightseeing and agenda-less ambling. On one morning, just after the dawn of a new day had broken above the ancient rooftops, I stood on the hotel’s seventh floor terrace, which is reserved exclusively for guests, and observed the puffs of steam curling up from the surrounding chimney tops, signaling that while the calendar pointed to spring, Mother Nature was still 36 slmag.net

rendezvousing with Old Man Winter. Within minutes, I was standing at the top of the Spanish Steps, the travertine still wet with dew and wonderfully void of the crowds that would soon be arriving en masse.

My companions on that early morning included a lonely laborer, tasked with cleaning up the previous day’s mess, and a pair of young Eastern European girls, giggling as they shared a split of champagne and a sandwich for their unconventional breakfast. It is a wonderful thing to feel like you have the Eternal City all to yourself, even if just for a fleeting moment. Taking full advantage of this window of opportunity, I quickly moved on to a lap of the exquisite nearby Borghese Gardens, already bustling with fellow early rising walkers and joggers, followed by quick stops at both the Trevi Fountain and the amazing Pantheon, making it back to the Hotel Hassler in time for breakfast service in the elegant Hassler Bistro at Palm Court. sl For more information and reservations visit hotelhasslerroma.com.

The Roman Forum

We asked Mr. Wirth to recommend some of his favorite spots in Rome, and added a few of our own that we uncovered while exploring the area around Hotel Hassler: Antico Café Greco (Via dei Condotti; anticocaffegreco.eu) – Opened in 1760, it is Rome’s oldest coffee bar. Mr. Wirth said his grandfather brought Buffalo Bill to this iconic spot, whose wonderful atmosphere and outstanding espresso endure.

The Gardens of Palazzo Colonna (galleriacolonna.it/en) – Located in the heart of Rome, the gardens, first planted in the early 1700s, are open to the public on Saturday mornings.

Campo de’ Fiori (fornocampodefiori.com) – Since 1869, a daily market has been held at this square, which was once the site of public executions. At its center is a statue of philosopher Giordano Bruno, who was burnt alive for heresy related to his cosmological theories. The bianco pizza at Forno Campo de’ Fiori is considered among the best in Rome.

Cul-De-Sac (Piazza di Pasquino, 73) – Located near Piazza Navona, this wine bar is one of the city’s oldest. Come early (or late) to snag one of the coveted outdoor tables.

Babette (babetteristorante.it) – Run by a pair of sisters who used to work in fashion, Mr. Wirth is a regular at this chic French/Italian hybrid that is located on a quiet street just a short stroll from the Hotel Hassler.

Il Palazzetto (ilpalazzettoroma.com) – Built in the 16th century alongside the Spanish Steps, Mr. Wirth purchased the five-story building in 1999 and spent three years renovating it into a fourroom boutique hotel and event space with a hugely popular rooftop wine and cocktail bar.

Keats-Shelley Memorial House and Babington’s Tea Room (keats-shelley-house.org; babingtons.com) – Located opposite one another at the foot of the Spanish Steps. The former is a museum dedicated to English Romantic poets, while inside the latter, which opened in 1893, there is a worn but endearing feeling of quirky English eclecticism.

Pipero Roma (piperoroma.it/en/) – After ogling the architecture of Santa Maria in Vallicella, constructed in the late 1500s, head across the Piazza della Chiesa Nuova to this Michelin-starred restaurant, operated by sommelier Alessandro Pipero.

Da Felice (feliceatestaccio.it/en) – Located in Testaccio, it’s regarded as the old-school favorite for cacio e pepe, tossed up tableside.

Ruscioli (salumeriaroscioli.com) – A deli, restaurant and wine bar in one. Not for the indecisive, with 300 types of cheese and 2,800 wine labels available.

Emma (emmapizzaria.com) – A popular pizzeria in the Campo de Fiori area, the recipe for the crust was developed in collaboration with acclaimed baker Pierluigi Roscioli. The crisp, thin base serves as the perfect backdrop for a host of simple and fresh toppings.

Sora Lella Restaurant (trattoriasoralella.it) – This homey family-operated spot is the only restaurant on Tiber Island that is open year-round. Mr. Wirth is particularly fond of their tagliolini pasta and meatloaf. slmag.net

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Of Note... Hit the Deck

Compiled by Colin Dennis

Clockwise from top left: FREEZE cooling wine glass with comfort-grip silicone band ($49/4; frontgate.com). Grande Papilio outdoor chair and Awa side table from B&B Italia (price upon request; bebitalia.com). Melville bench from Landscapeforms (price upon request; landscape forms.com). Serpentine settee and armchair designed by Eleonore Nalet for Ligne Roset (price upon request; ligne-roset.com). Seletti concrete bowler hat planter ($79; smithersofstamford.com). MoĂŤt Mini Party Pack with a built-in ice bucket/cooler and golden flute toppers ($100; ReserveBar.com).

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Clockwise from top left: Cirque umbrella from Santa Barbara Designs (price upon request; santabarbaradesigns.com). Rolling party station with built-in cooler and Sunbrella canopy ($1,599; frontgate.com). The Nestrest hanging lounger from Dedon (price upon request; dedon.de). Annie bistro chair from Ballard Designs ($599/2; ballarddesigns.com). A concept of American designer Stephen Burks, THE OTHERS is an anthropomorphic hand-woven lantern collection. Pairs of hand-made acrylic eyes are available as accessories (price upon request; dedon.de). Barrow fire bowl

by Konstantin Slawinski ($934; einrichten-design.com). Knoll Risom outdoor lounge chair ($1,218) and ottoman ($650) with an oiled teak frame and Sunbrella webbing (knoll.com).

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Of Note... Hit the Deck

Compiled by Colin Dennis

Clockwise from top left: Sonneman InsideOut outdoor Offset Panel LED sconce in textured bronze ($490; onnemanawayoflight.com). Barone Fini Pinot Grigio (baronefiniwines.com).

Vintage Biologica Butterfly Large Melamine Platter ($35; persora.com). Stingray shade sculpture from Tucci (price upon request; tucci.com). The Iron Maiden Sofa by Diesel Living x Moroso is available in both outdoor and indoor versions (price upon request; moroso.it).

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Clockwise from top left: Solvej baby/toddler swing ($220; solvejswings.com). Birdhouse from OPOSSUM design ($195; opossumdesign.com). Trex outdoor kitchen (price upon request; trexoutdoorstorage.com). Cyril oval dining table in light gray concrete from Made Goods, available in two sizes (price upon request; madegoods.com). Balta outdoor lounge chair from Made Goods (price upon request; madegoods.com).

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Bibliotaph... Icons

Compiled by Victoria Chase Over the course of his more than 15-year career, Alexander McQueen shocked the fashion world with his avant-garde theatricality. This book tells McQueen's story as he worked his way up from making suits on Saville Row to starting his own fashion label and his death at the age of 40 in 2010. Tom Rasmussen (author), R. Song (illustrator) — McQueen: The Illustrated History of A Fashion Icon — hardcover, 240 pages, Smith Street Books (smithstreetbooks.com)

Available in September, 60 iconic women from the 20th century to today serve as inspiration for a fun collection of cocktail recipes crafted to reflect the personality, legacy or tastes of its namesake. Jennifer Croll (author), Kelly Shami (illustrator) — Free the Tipple: Kickass Cocktails Inspired by Iconic Women — hardcover, 144 pages, Prestel (penguinrandomhouse.com) A celebration of the life and famous words of Major League Baseball player and New York Yankee Lawrence “Yogi” Berra.

Barb Rosenstock (author), Terry Widener (illustrator) — Yogi: The Life, Loves, And Language of Baseball Legend Yogi Berra — hardcover, Calkins Creek (boydsmillpress.com)

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A compilation of photographs of Marilyn Monroe captured by Milton Greene, who was her artistic advisor, agent, and business partner from 1954 to 1957. Joshua Green & Davis Kotsilibas (editors) — Marilyn Monroe: Milton's Marilyn — hardcover, 220 pages, Schirmer Mosel (schirmer-mosel.com)

bib 'li' o 'taph, [bib-lee-uhtaf, -tahf ]: a person who caches or hoards books Based on an original, limited-edition folio by Gustave Eiffel himself, this book presents design drawings, on-site photographs, and historical documents to explore the making of a global architectural icon.

Bertrand Lemon —The Eiffel Tower — softcover, 176 pages, TASCHEN (taschen.com)

This decidedly not-for-kids illustrated A-Z celebrates the many faces and facets of the legend that was Prince. Prince A to Z is densely packed with everything you need to know about the legendary performer, from the greatest hits of trivia to the most obscure B-side facts. Steve Wide (author), Alice Oehr (illustrator) — Prince A to Z: The Life of an Icon from Alphabet Street to Jay Z — hardcover, 56 pages, Smith Street Books (smithstreetbooks.com)

Kishin Shinoyama's widely unseen portraits of John Lennon and Yoko Ono, taken at the request of Ono for the cover of the couple's 1980 album Double Fantasy, are the focus of this limited edition tome. Each of the 1,980 copies are signed by Ono and Shinoyama. Kishin Shinoyama — John Lennon & Yoko Ono: Double Fantasy — clothbound hardcover in a clamshell box, 174 pages, TASCHEN (taschen.com)

In November 1922, Howard Carter’s archaeological expedition uncovered the intact royal seals of King Tutankhamen, buried in the 14th century BC. Photographer Sandro Vannini began working in Egypt in the 1990s, documenting murals, tombs and artifacts, using a time-consuming and multi-shot technique that reproduces colors in their original tones. Vannini's images are accompanied by texts penned by leading Egyptologists. Sandro Vannini — King Tut: The Journey through the Underworld — hardcover, 448 pages, TASCHEN (taschen.com)

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FROM TEE TO SHINING SEA Gear, apparel and accessories for pursuits from the links to the lounge chair Compiled by Bridget Williams

FROM TEE TO SHINING SEA

Top: XXIO X driver with new True-Focus impact technology ($650; xxiousa.com). Left to right: When Rory McIlroy won the recent Arnold Palmer Invitational, he played with a full 14-club bag of TaylorMade pieces, including the M3 460 driver. He averaged 316.5-yards off the tee and recorded the second-longest drive of the week at 373 yards ($499; taylormadegolf.com). Ping Men's G irons feature COR-Eye Technology, which provides four times the face flexing for faster ball speeds across the face and more carry distance (from $100; ping.com). Designed to deliver exceptional ball speed, the Rogue driver from Callaway is a Golf Digest 2018 Hot List Gold Medal winner ($499; callawaygolf.com). Launcher CBX iron from Cleveland Golf uses a cavity back and a cup face to help you achieve incredible distance ($99-$914;clevelandgolf.com). The mallet-style Operator putter from PXG is designed to be finely tuned to the user's stroke style ($450; pxg.com).

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Clockwise from top left: Men's Nova Rosso golf shoe from Royal Albartross ($299; us.albartross.com). The Garmin Approach S60 GPS golf watch comes preloaded with more than 40,000 golf courses worldwide, and quickly reads your location to show accurate distances to greens, hazards and doglegs on full-color golf course maps ($350; garmin.com).

IBKUL solid mock neck half-zip pullover with IceFit cooling technology and UPF 50 ($86; ibkul.com). Srixon Z-Four Stand Bag ($180; srixon.com). Relay sunglasses with gold frame and Green Water Serilium lenses from Revo ($229; revo. com). Limited-edition men's Croco black golf shoe from Royal Albartross ($315; us.albartross.com). IBKUL Aida print long sleeve polo with IceFit cooling technology and UPF 50 ($96) and solid Crystal pleat skort ($94; ibkul.com). Lady Precept golf balls from Bridgestone Golf ($24.99/dozen; bridgestonegolf.com). Calloway 2018 Chrome Soft Truvis Stars and Stripes golf balls ($45/dozen; callawaygolf.com).

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Clockwise from top left: Leaf Me Alone sand-free microfiber beach towel from Tesalate ($59; tesalate.com). 9" Banzai swim trunk from Bonobos ($88; bonobos.com). Daniel Patrick LA shorts ($250; danielpatrick. com). Vilebrequin Men's stretch swim trunks in Starfish Art print ($280; vilebrequin.com). The Tessa bikini from Solid & Striped ($176; solidandstriped.com). The Ann-Marie one-piece in Paradise Stripe from Solid and Striped ($168; solidandstriped.com). Unify the Ties Make You Feel one-piece ($240; unifytheties.com).

Soluna Swim Flutter top ($58) and Full Moon bottom ($48; solunaswim.com)

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Crystal Cove maillot from Isabella Rose ($160; isabellaroseswimwear.com)

Clockwise from top left: Patravi ScubaTec from Carl F. Bucherer is water-resistant to 200m ($4,695; carl-f-bucherer.com). Tamara Comolli India Snake Wood Candy bracelet with sapphires (tamaracomolli.com). Roger Vivier lace-up Blooming espadrille ($595; rogervivier.com). Moscot Lemtosh TT SE sunglasses ($400; moscot.com). Infinity Sun Glow on the Go sunless tanning aerosol ($25; infinitysun.com). Arielle wicker basket bag from Frances Valentine ($295; francesvalentine.com).

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Curating a Lifestyle: Don't Knock It Until You've Tried It

Written by Amelia Jeffers

Clockwise from top left: This dainty agateware creamer dates to early 1800s England and boasts remarkably detailed paw feet with lions' heads. It commanded an impressive $3,100 at auction. Photo courtesy Garth's Auctioneers & Appraisers. Despite a chip to the rim, this Limoge plate from Mary Todd Lincoln's White House dinner service sold for $3,900 at auction more than her entire set cost in 1861. Photo courtesy Garth's Auctioneers & Appraisers. Dating to the 18th century, this Famille Rose plate has a bright ruby back and is a fine example of Chinese porcelain. It sold for $3,000 at auction. Photo courtesy Selkirk Auctioneers & Appraisers.

In my work as an antiques and art adviser, appraiser, and auctioneer for over twenty years, I have reviewed individual items and entire collections for thousands of people. Though tastes, economy, and technology have changed during that time, I have consistently seen a trend that does not seem to be shifting anytime soon: no one wants Grandma’s china. While “no one” might be an overstatement, in the race to place your post-its, I’ve seen some pretty interesting things take a higher priority than a beautiful set of vintage china. Le Creuset, a Vitamix, even barware can instigate a heated discussion over who has the fondest memory of Nana whipping up something magical; but, her Haviland Vieux Paris Green service for 12? No one wants to reject it, but no one is running to pack it, either. They look to alleviate feelings of guilt by hauling a place setting or two into a walk-in appraisal event, hoping that we will tell them that it is, in fact, priceless - and that buyers today are clamoring for this precise pattern. Sadly, no one

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else wants Grandma’s china either, so prices for vintage sets of dishes are woefully low. There is so little demand, that unless the set is super special (read: 19th Century and a high style European maker or Mid-Century Mod), I generally recommend donating to a local charity or selling in a yard sale. I once overheard one of my more cynical colleagues actually suggest using it as shooting targets.

Often, in collectors’ minds, this declining interest in china is seen as a global commentary on the desirability of ceramics in general - but, nothing could be further from the truth. As with any other category of art and antiques, sophisticated buyers remain enthusiastic about items that exhibit the magical combination of rarity, aesthetic, and condition. Add an interesting provenance into the mix, and prices can be astronomical.

When the extensive pottery and porcelain collection of a late decorator was consigned with me at Garth’s, our team spent days listing and numbering, packing and sorting rows of individual

Clockwise from top left: Majolica is best known for figural porcelains, but these jewel-toned oyster plates offer a pop of summer color and sold for just $531. Photo courtesy Garth's Auctioneers & Appraisers. Majolica figural dishes add whimsy and fit nicely with a preppy, coastal decor. This sardine dish brought $400 at auction. Photo courtesy Garth's Auctioneers & Appraisers.

plates from various patterns by known makers, dessert services, and more. At times, I questioned just how much interest the items would garner. When auction was over, the pottery and porcelain alone topped $200,000.

Among his collection was lovely Limoges dinner plate with a deep royal purple and gilt border, a center eagle with shield, and “E Pluribus Unum" waving below. It is tough to admit that in my haste, I overlooked the plate as something significant, overwhelmed by the sheer volume of objects we were handling.

Fortunately, a ceramics specialist recognized it as having come from an extensive service ordered by Mary Todd Lincoln for the White House in the spring of 1861, at a total cost of nearly $3,200 (thank goodness for random knowledge of what some might consider useless information!). With proper research, the single plate (with a chipped rim no less!) fetched an impressive $3,900 largely, of course, due to the important historical connection.

Conversely, the collection also included hand painted porcelains whose history and even painter will never be known, but whose value is found in incredible detail and artistry.

Though functionally obsolete, these works of art can sell for thousands of dollars when in pristine condition. Other notable ceramics that command impressive prices today include folksy designs like mochaware, early Chinese porcelains, and preppy forms of Majolica. Our Columbus issue includes, in fact, a relaxed lake home filled with luxurious pink, green, and white fabrics a la Lilly Pulitzer, accented by some amazing figural majolica. The head of house these days? Someone who not only placed her post-it on Grandma’s china, but has embraced the spirit of hospitality and grace that is so epitomized by a beautiful piece of yesterday. sl Amelia Jeffers is an nationally-known auctioneer and appraiser who has worked in the fine art, antiques and bespoke collectibles market for over 20 years.

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Back in the Saddle High-performance bicycles and gear for hitting the road, trails (or both) this summer and beyond Compiled by John Robinson

From top to bottom: Noticeable for its ability to accommodate beefier tires, the 3T Strada Team Stealth aero bike is outfitted with hydraulic disc brakes and 1x drivetrain (from $4,000; 3tcycling.com). Created in collaboration with Glenmorangie and handmade in Portland, Oregon, the Renovo Aerowood is the first bicycle with a frame made from whisky casks and carbon (from $6950; renovobikes.com).

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From CafĂŠ du Cycliste, the Wolf cycling cap ($35), Lucienne jersey in Night Blue, and Annabelle black and white bib shorts ($262; cafeducycliste.com).

BMC's Teammachine has won the Tour de France, the Olympics and World Championships.

For the most recent update of a racing classic, the company sought feedback from professionals, resulting in the SLR01 Disc, a lightweight performance bike with aero touches and instantaneous pedaling response ($12,000; bmc-switzerland.com).

Open Cycle U.P. (Unbeaten Path), combines a road riding position with clearance for mountain bike tires (from $2,600; opencycle.com).

The Giant TCR Advanced SL is a special edition race replica bike developed to commemorate Tom Dumoulin’s victory at the 2017 Giro D'Italia. The bike has the lightest frameset ever produced by Giant, as well as the highest stiffnessto-weight ratio of any road bike on the market ($8,500; giant-bicycles.com).

The Cannonade Synapse Carbon Disc Dura-Ace is ideal for high mileage days, delivering a smooth ride and good pedal efficiency on a variety of surfaces ($4,999; cannonade.com).

ECO // 07 Compactable Urban Cycle designed by Victor Aleman with a folding frame and wheels (victoraleman.mx)

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The Alfa from Allied Cycle Works is a racing bicycle that provides a stiff and compliant ride for everyone from pros to local club riders. Completely customizable, and made in Little Rock, Arkansas, the ultra lightweight frame is available in 12 sizes (from $3,000; alliedcycleworks.com). Photo by Bryan Clifton.

Open Cycle One+ (from $3,200; opencycle.com).

Photo by Marc Gasch.

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Clockwise from top left: Woodstock women's limited edition set from Attaquer Cycling ($287; attaquercycling.com). The All Day Alphabetics jersey in teal from Attaquer Cycling ($143; attaquercycling.com). Women's Provence cap from Café du Cycliste ($50; cafeducycliste.com). Rapha Racing flyweight cap ($35; rapha.cc/us/en_US). Brevet lightweight jersey from Rapha Racing ($165; rapha.cc/us/en_US). Solo New York Peak backpack ($40; solo-ny.com). The Load from Riese and Müller is a full suspension pedal-assist cargo bike that mixes sporty fun with room enough to carry children, dogs, groceries, and anything else you might need, up to 200 lbs (from $6,000; r-m.de). Women's Dolores Provençal jersey from Café du Cycliste ($150; cafeducycliste.com).

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ITALIAN JOB

For the fifth year in a row, a vehicle made in Italy takes top honors at the prestigious Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este Written by Andre James “Hollywood on the Lake” was the theme of the 2018 Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este, held from the 25th to the 27th of May on the grounds of the Grand Hotel Villa d’Este, and the nearby gardens belonging to the Villa Erba on Italy’s Lake Como. BMW Group Classic has hosted the world’s most exclusive beauty competition for historic motor vehicles in partnership with the storied hotel since 2005.

Divided among eight classes, the vehicles chosen for competition were selected based on their enduring impression on the road and also as performers in feature films. “Movie Cars and Bikes,” a special exhibition presented by BMW Group Classic in the Padiglione Centrale of Villa Erba, showcased vehicles that played a leading role in famous screen successes, including the classic Mini driven by Mister Bean and original vehicles from James Bond films and the Mission Impossible series.

The event encompassed a closed exhibition and parade at the Villa d’Este on Saturday for participants, media and invited guests, and a second parade open to the public at Villa Erba on Sunday. A jury of experts, led by President Lorenzo Ramaciotti—an Italian car designer who worked for Pininfarina for more than three decades and is now head of design for Fiat Chrysler Automobiles—awarded Best of Show to a 1958 Ferrari 335 S Spider Scaglietti, owned by Austrian pharmaceuticals magnate Andreas Mohringer. Besting 50 distinguished automobiles, the front-engined sportscar is the youngest of only four cars of this type ever built.

Known as the “wandering Ferrari,” in 1963 the car was bailed out of a U.S. Customs warehouse in New York by a Maryland car dealer for a measly $1,000; after a succession of international owners, Mohringer purchased it 2013 for $21.5 million in a private sale. The car’s 4.0-liter V-12, which delivers close to 400 horsepower, was quite a powerhouse in its time, and it enabled the 335S to become the first car to set an average speed in excess of 124mph in the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1957.

Albert Spiess of Switzerland picked up two Best of Show awards as voted by the public, for his 1968 Alfa Romeo 33/2 Stradale Coupé Scaglietti. Just 18 examples of the mid-engined sports car were built between 1967-1969, and not all made it into private ownership. The “Stradale” designation is often used by Italian manufacturers to indicate the vehicle is a street-legal version of a racing car; in this case it is based on the Tipo 33 sports prototype. sl For a complete list of winners, visit concorsodeleganzavilladeste.com.

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A collection of world's finest historic automobiles on display at Villa d'Este

A 1958 Ferrari 335 S Spider Scaglietti was awarded Best of Show

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Top-tier watchmakers vying for pole position look to high-octane performers in the motoring world for inspiration.

Compiled by Andre James

Left to right: To commemorate their appointment as the Official Partner, Official Watch Partner and Official Connected Watch Partner of Aston Martin and Aston Martin Racing, TAG Heuer presented two special editions honoring the British luxury brand at the International Geneva Motor Show this past March. Shown is the 43mm Formula 1 Aston Martin Racing Quartz Chronograph with notched steel bezel and an aluminum ring with a tachymeter scale. The indexes, seconds hand and Aston Martin's winged logo all sport Aston Martin Racing's specific shade of lime. The movement is accurate to a tenth of a second and is displayed on the small counter at 6 o'clock. ($1,550; tagheuer.com). Inspired by a classic Minerva Rally Timer stopwatch from the 1930s, MontBlanc's limited-edition TimeWalker can be used as a wristwatch, pocket watch or dashboard clock. The chronograph’s 30-minute counter at 12 o’clock is vertically aligned with the small seconds subdial at 6 o’clock. The 50mm satin-finish titanium case with knurled finishing and DLC coating on the flank has the same dimensions as its famous predecessor (price upon request; montblanc.com).

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In March, TAG Heuer announced a global partnership with Gulf Oil International to develop new activities and editions. The brands have crossed paths on multiple occasions, most notably in the 1971 film "Le Mans," in which Steve McQueen wore a Heuer Monaco on his wrist while driving a Porsche 917 featuring the Gulf logo. The Monaco Gulf 2018 Special Edition pays homage to the Heuer Monaco, launched in 1969 as the first square and water-resistant automatic chronograph in the history of Swiss watchmaking. Inside the 2018 version is the famous Calibre 11 movement.

The blue perforated calfskin strap is highlighted by orange topstitching. The piece is water-resistant to 100 meters ($5,900; tagheuer.com).

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Limited to 500 pieces, the Bentley GT Dark Sapphire Edition from Breitling pays tribute to the all-new Bentley Continental GT ($9,800; breitling.com).

The second installment in an on-going partnership between watchmaker Zenith and Range Rover, the Chronometer El Primero Range Rover Special Edition features a 42mm aluminum case finished in high contrast burnished copper, a brushed slate grey dial, a 50-hour power reserve, and a high beat movement of 36,000 vibrations per hour. The strap is fashioned from sustainable rubber coated with dark grey diamond-perforated calfskin, the same Scottish leather featured in Range Rover interiors ($8,975; zenith-watches.com).

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Bulgari Octo Maserati GranSport limited edition mono-retro watch with automatic winding, jumping hours and retrograde minutes. Stainless case with black carbon treatment and black leather bracelet ($12,800; bulgari.com).

Created in partnership with The Indian Motorcycle Company, the automatic 44mm Baume et Mercier Clifton Club Indian chronograph is inspired by the iconic reputation of the first American motorcycle company and designed with heritage in mind. Leather for the strap was sourced from the Horween Leather Company in Chicago. Self-winding caliber with a 48-hour power reserve ($3,900; Baume-et-Mercier.com).

The Roger Dubuis/Lamborghini Squadra Corse partnership roared to life in 2018 with the release of the 45mm Excalibur Aventador S Blue, which shares the same C-SMC carbon used in the building of Lamborghini cars. The limited-edition timepiece is propelled by the Duotor concept in a totally revamped 312-part RD103SQ movement. The piece has a black and Neptune blue bi-material strap, blue rubber over-moulding on the case and crown, and blue markings on the fluted carbon bezel ($185,000; rogerdubuis.com).

The first limited-edition timepiece from Richard Mille and McLaren Automotive was revealed at the 2018 Geneva International Motor Show. Limited to 500 pieces globally, the RM 11-03 McLaren features an extensive use of titanium, a Carbon TPT and orange Quartz-TPT case, a skeletonised automatic winding movement with adjustable rotor geometry, oversize date display and a 55-hour power reserve ($191,500; richardmille.com).

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PARADISE FOUND Four Seasons Resort Lāna‘i Written by Caylee Matthews It might be as near as the neighbor’s house, or far away on a remote beach, but in either case, nearly everyone among us has spied a property they covet and thought someday. In the case of Larry Ellison, co-founder and former CEO of Oracle Corporation, that someday moment came while flying over the island of Lāna‘i, and in 2012 he made headlines by purchasing 98% of the 140-square mile island, Hawaii’s sixth-largest by acreage. The reported $300-million sales price was a far cry from the paltry $1.1-million James Drummond Dole paid in 1922 for the same chunk of dirt to create a pineapple plantation, now defunct, that has resulted in Lāna‘i still being known as The Pineapple Island.

Enviable as one may be of Ellison’s acquisition, there is an upside: we can all partake in the amenities of the paradisiacal playground he has created on the sloping hillsides that tumble to the shores of Hulopo‘e Bay by checking into the Four Seasons Resort Lāna‘i, a luxurious retreat of unparalleled beauty with a dizzying array of amenities.

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I’d been awake for more than 24 hours by the time I made it to the resort under the cover of darkness; a blur of bright colors and perfumed blooms my only fuzzy recollections of being escorted to my room. Waking just before sunrise, I finally had the chance to survey my surroundings, outfitted in a style I can best describe as tech-meets-tradition, with an abundance of teak, zebra and mahogany woods, and a muted, monochromatic color scheme that felt both contemporary and calming.

Using the control panel to open the drapery— high-tech bells and whistles such as a 75” platinum bezel LED television, an in-room iPad Air, and fully integrated and intuitive lighting, temperature, service and privacy controls are a given considering the ownership—I was greeted with a plethora of fragrant gardenia and hibiscus framing my view of an emerald green fairway on the 18-hole Jack Nicklaus-designed Manele Golf Course, which ambles along lava outcroppings on a ridge above the ocean. A few swigs of KonaRed Energy from the complementary refreshment

center, followed by a shower using the resort’s exclusive Āina bath amenities, which incorporate kukui nut oil grown on nearby Alberta’s Farm, and I was ready to seize the day.

The AAA Five Diamond Four Seasons Resort Lāna‘i is comprised of 213 guest rooms and suites, each averaging an impressive 700-square-feet. Found in both public and private spaces is original art culled from Polynesia, Micronesia and Hawaii. The open corridors on each of the floors meander through lush vegetation with seating areas and composed vignettes at the stairwells and elevator banks. At the ground level are water features, koi ponds and tropical birds; don’t be alarmed if one of the latter says “hello there” as you amble by. If you’re lucky, you’ll encounter Bruno Amby, a Lāna‘i elder and local legend who serves as the resort’s avian expert, caring for the rescued tropical birds as part of a partnership with the Peninsula Humane Society.

Each day the resort offers a full schedule of activities, both on property and off, allowing vacationers to assemble an

itinerary as packed or lax as they choose. On my first morning, a band of pink was just becoming discernible on the horizon as I made my way to the lobby, where I spied a group headed off for what I thought was morning yoga on the beach, but to my great delight it was a hike to “Sweetheart Rock,” one of Lāna‘i’s most recognizable landmarks.

Breaking off from the pack, I made my way to the top of a lava rock outcropping in time to watch one of the most jawdropping sunrises I’ve ever been privy to. I was so enraptured by the spectacle that I didn’t realize that in my haste to claim a prime position on the rock, my legs were dangling nearly 100feet above the shore break, something my fear of heights would never let me do under normal circumstances. Once the sun was up and the spell broken, I carefully scooted back from the edge, still awestruck from what I’d just witnessed. Taking the short hike is an experience I can’t recommend highly enough at least once during your stay.

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Hulopoe Presidential Suite

On property there are two pools, including one reserved for adults. Pool attendants regularly make rounds offering housemade fruitsicles and agave lemonade. On call is Dr. Shades, who is available to perform emergency procedures on sunglasses in need of some TLC, and to provide complimentary loaner shades in cases of dire emergency.

A unique offering of the knock-your-socks-off Hāwanawana Spa and expansive fitness facility is a new Yoga Studio with gorgeous views and a dynamic spread of ten aerial yoga hammocks.

Spa treatments are customized to each guest and incorporate ingredients sourced from both the sea and surrounding landscape, such as a three-hour body treatment ritual that uses wild seaweed and Undaria algae oil.

A focus on local extends to the culinary program, with the resort supporting more than 100 local farmers and fishers across an impressive array of dining options. Headlining the on-property 62 slmag.net

NOBU LĀNA‘I

dining is NOBU LĀNA‘I, which showcases the new-style Japanese cuisine made famous by Chef Matsuhisa, and infuses it with local creations under the direction of Executive Chef Christopher "Tex" Texeira, who worked in the kitchen at Nobu Waikiki before heading to Lāna‘i to help open the resort’s restaurant in 2012.

Named to reflect the island’s 140-square-mile radius (and the ideal temperature of a medium steak), ONE FORTY is the resort’s main dining room, serving breakfast and dinner in its ocean-view space. A highlight of my meal was a perfectly cooked bone-in ribeye accentuated with maple-braised chestnuts, applesmoked bacon, bone marrow, caramelized Maui onions and roasted mushrooms. It was paired with a bottle of Cabernet Sauvignon produced and bottled exclusively for the resort by Buccella in Napa Valley. ONE FORTY’s breakfast buffet is extensive. I enjoyed sampling international favorites from Korea and Japan alongside typical American breakfast fare.

Dramatic seaside cliffs are a short hike from the resort.

Lanai Ranch at Koele offers traditional trail riding experiences.

Lushly manicured common areas are found throughout the grounds of the resort.

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Malibu Farm restaurant

Lāna‘i elder Bruno Amby is the resort’s avian expert.

Poolside is Malibu Farm, an outpost of the famed California farm-to-table restaurant, which serves excellent salads and grilled local fish, complemented by a refreshing cocktail lineup. VIEWS, located at the Manele Golf Course, is perfect for an après golf lunch or libation. Like its name implies, the open-air Sports Bar & Grill serves upscale bar fare along with sports programming and a variety of table and pub games.

Just 3,200 people live on Lāna‘i, most of them clustered in the vicinity of quaint Lāna‘i City, not even a one stoplight town. On-site Jeep rentals through the resort’s Adventure Desk makes it easy to go exploring, with Garden of the Gods being a top destination, as it is only accessible by 4WD. Not a garden in the typical sense, but rather a vast expanse of red lava formations on the northern side of the island, Hawaiian legend says that the curious arrangements were created by the gods who dropped them to earth while tending to their own celestial plots.

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Garden of the Gods

Sweetheart Rock at sunrise.

With the majority of the island under private ownership, each of the offsite excursions is operated to the same exacting standards as the resort itself, with the facilities to match. A state-of-the-art 14-station shooting center and archery area offers expert, yet laid-back instructors; guided off-road Polaris tours through the island’s varied terrain are led by locals who share the island’s history and lore; fishing, snorkel and sunset sails depart from the nearby marina with crew possessing an intimate knowledge of the ideal spots for each activity; the Lanai Ranch at Koele offers traditional trail riding experiences as well as sunset Zen horse yoga. From flight lessons to deep sea diving, you certainly will never be at a loss for things to do! Hard as it was to leave this slice of paradise, I was pleased to find that even the journey home had a Four Seasons’ touch: a lounge for guests in the Honolulu International Airport offers a comfortable space to wait for your connecting flight both coming and going. Aloha, a hui hou! sl For more information or reservations, visit fourseasons.com/lanai/.

SOPHISTICATED SOURCE Neutral textures, gorgeous ginghams and sassy fringe accents top summer’s chicest fashion and interior design trends.

by Elise Hofer Shaw

Alice swivel chair by Alison Victoria upholstered in Mod Velvet in Blush, $900, at Interior Define, 872.802.4119.

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Evers pendant, $672, by Arteriors Home at Lightology, 312.944.1000.

Mini crochet bird chain thread earring, $830, by Natasha Zinko at select Barneys New York stores and barneys.com.

12 Provence raffia hat, $240, by Helen Kaminski at Neiman Marcus Michigan Avenue, 312.642.5900.

Tiered crochet gown, $1,195, by Alberta Ferretti at select Barneys New York Stores and barneys.com.

“May,” sustainably sourced hand-dyed textiles (42” in diameter), $750, by artist Jamie Tubbs at Daniel Kinkade Fine Art, danielkinkade.com.

Eldridge mini backpack in ecru and white, $95, by Deux Lux at deuxlux.com.

Woven leather mule flat with snakeskin stitching, $990, by Bottega Veneta at at Neiman Marcus Michigan Avenue, 312.642.5900.

Rey knit 100 percent cotton blanket in ivory, $258-$360; Corossol crochet Euro shams, $132 each; and Lorient crochet decorative pillow, $104; all by Annie Selke for Pine Cone Hill at Bedside Manor, 773.404.2020.

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From top: Paloma’s Studio octagon ring with aquamarine and green tourmaline in 18K yellow gold, $21,000; Paloma’s Studio baguette four-stone ring with rubelite and amethyst in 18K yellow gold, $16,000; Paloma’s Studio baguette three-stone ring with amethysts in 18K yellow gold, $2,800; Paloma’s Studio pyramid ring with rubelite and blue topaz in 18K yellow gold, $4,500; and Paloma’s Graffiti lightning bolt cuff in 18K yellow gold with amethysts, $35,000; all at Tiffany & Co. Chicagoland stores.

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Asymmetrical gingham sheath dress, $755, by Marques’ Almeida at Nordstrom stores.

Princetown gingham loafer mule, $750, at Gucci, 312.664.5504.

Gingham Euro sham in navy, $88, at Serena & Lily Design Shop, 773.435.6036.

“Midwestern Haiku,” gingham mixed media collage on paper (18” x 24”), $900, by artist Pamela Staker at Daniel Kinkade Fine Art, danielkinkade.com.

Spring/summer 2018 ready-to-wear look, price upon request, at Dior, 312.651.4415.

Slingback bow pump, $690, by Miu Miu at Nordstrom stores.

2000T bed, $8,000$40,380, by Hästens at Chicago Luxury Beds, 312.527.5337.

Gingham trilby hat, $88,

by Kate Spade New York at Nordstrom stores.

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Erica armchair, $4,062.00 to $4,587, and Erica sofa, $9,077 to $10,270, both featuring Anthracite painted diecast aluminum frames with Anthracite polypropylene interlacing and shown with seat, back and lumbar cushions,

by Antonio Citterio. Mirto low rectangular small table, $5,594, and Mirto console table, $5,666, both with Calacatta white porcelain stoneware top finish with Anthracite painted frame finish, by Antonio Citterio.

Kaleidos reversible outdoor carpet made of multicolor polyolefin interlacing, $9,244, by CR&S. All pieces are part of the B&B Italia Outdoor Collection and available at WPA Chicago, 312.335.3855 (waterproof covers available).

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Boatneck tie detail dress, $1,695, by Lela Rose at Neapolitan Collection, Winnetka, 847.441.7784.

Caracas wall covering, price upon request, by Nobilis at Holly Hunt in theMART, 312.661.1900.

Oyster Perpetual Datejust 31 (31mm) 18K yellow gold bezel set with 46 brilliant-cut diamonds and malachite dial with Roman numerals VI and IX set with 24 diamonds on a President bracelet, $44,150, at Rolex Boutique Tourneau, 312.951.1041, and Razny Jewelers Chicagoland stores.

Rosie Blade Grass accent pillow, $47, by Deny Designs at Nordstrom Stores.

Green empoli glass bud vases, $220 each, at The Golden Triangle, 312.755.1266.

Large paillette band, $6,400, by Pamela Love Fine Jewelry at select Barneys New York stores and barneys.com.

Dior Poison-D multicolor sandal, $950, at Dior, 312.651.4415.

Incredibles emerald and diamond earrings set in platinum, price upon request, at Harry Winston, 312.705.1820.

Hattie bench with velvet cushion in emerald, $2,195, at Jayson Home, 773.248.8180.

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Red stripe denim jacket, $900, and pants, $720, both by OffWhite c/o Virgil Abloh at VMR, 312.330.3778.

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Layla pendant, $3,600, by Arteriors at Lightology, 312.944.1000.

Textured metal fringe earrings, $38, by Tasha at Nordstrom stores.

Crystal lattice fringe bracelet, $225,

by Alexis Bittar at Neiman Marcus Michigan Avenue, 312.642.5900.

Leather fringe pants, $830, by Giamba at VMR, 312.330.3778.

Western embroidered fringe boot, $1,150, by Isabel Marant at Nordstrom stores.

Extra small laundry logo fringe calfskin tote, $2,250, by Balenciaga at Nordstrom stores.

Shag burlap wall covering, price upon request, by Stephanie Gabel at Roux Design, 773.227.0104.

Aline leather pouf in oyster, $1,012,

by V Rugs and Home at Bedside Manor, 773.404.2020.

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1932 W LAKE ST CHICAGO, IL 60612 312-344-1398 • LMCATERINGCHICAGO.COM

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Think Outside The Ballroom

Joe Gallo Photography Jennifer Jackson Photography

Local Art Oasis in the Historic Bridgeport Neighborhood 1029 W 35th St. Chicago, IL 60609 • 773-523-0200 • zhoubartcenter.com Hours: Monday-Friday 10am-5pm • info@zhoubartcenter.com

ART SOUL AND

By Elise Hofer Shaw / Portrait by Anthony Tahlier

With Revolving Collections Gallery, Chicagoan Laura Rashid redefines art consulting—and how cutting-edge businesses approach branding.

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Eleven years ago, Chicago artist Laura Rashid got to thinking: Not everyone can afford to invest in big-name, established artists, and a lot of people are hesitant to commit to midlevel art, too, because it can still be costly—and, well, tastes change. What if someone wants to redecorate in a year and mix up their art? Ultimately it was an aha moment, and in 2007, along with partners Brian Cuttica and Rajiv Patel, Rashid created Revolving Collections Gallery (rcgart.com), an outlet for artists to rent their art to businesses big and small—from hotels, restaurants and corporate headquarters to neighborhood retail concepts—and to homeowners hesitant to pull the trigger on statement art without taking it for a test drive.

“As an artist, if you’re not showing in a gallery, you have all of this art that’s just sitting around. I thought, ‘Why not rent it?’ Get the art out there. Let people live with it before buying, and increase visibility. And if I could help some of Chicago’s talented but struggling artists get a paycheck in the process—myself included—to keep the art alive, then great,” reflects Rashid. “The supply and demand just made sense to me. We were giving clients the option to switch out their art on a whim.”

For the first five years, RCG was strictly in the business of leasing art, and business was booming (early clients included Hotel Palomar and PH Towers Westgate in Las Vegas). But over time, the market—and Rashid’s sixth sense for pairing people with art—guided RCG into brokerage, too. “Our clients organically drove us into more brokerage and buying. And that’s what the artists want, so it’s a good thing,” says Rashid, sharing that RCG negotiated large deals last year for local artists like Bear Champ (aka JC Rivera), A/nonymous, Jeff Zimmerman, Justus Roe, Doug Fogelson, Amy Judd and Lane Coder. “For some projects we’ll do a combination of leasing and sales, but primarily RCG has evolved into a full-blown creative house that collaborates with brands, interior designers and developers who believe that your artwork should reflect your culture, message and identity. We’ll get a call that says, ‘Hey, we need magic to happen. We don’t know what that is but we need you to come in and do that,’ and that’s when we get in the mix and do all of the art consulting. In the simplest of terms, we’re just another subcontractor.”

From custom neon signage by Tracee Badway to massive ceiling installations by Beth Kamhi and murals by Nate Otto, there’s nothing elementary about how RCG interprets the voice of a brand through art. Just take a gander at the collections at restaurants like BLVD and Bellemore in Chicago, and Morton’s the Steakhouse in Vegas, as well as hotels like Kimpton Hotel Allegro and the new Zachary Hotel. For the Zachary, Rashid was asked to pay homage to Zachary Taylor Davis, a colleague of Frank Lloyd Wright and the architect behind the original Wrigley Field (located across the street from the hotel). “We wanted all of the artwork to have a historic feel and tell Zachary’s story, but we gave it an avant-garde twist,” says Rashid. “We elevated pieces of history—the original blueprints of Wrigley, Zachary’s family photos and architectural drawings—and brought them into the contemporary world in a fun way through custom art.”

And even though RCG has been keeping busy with hush-hush hotel, restaurant and club projects, not to mention working with developer Sterling Bay and the Chicago Cubs, Rashid makes time for a range of clients. “We have the ability to work within any budget to provide the best possible art program to enhance a space,” assures Rashid. “We find the best artists for the project, period. Sometimes it’s art from a well-known name, sometimes it’s a piece that’s really raw from an unknown artist.” When it’s a good fit, Rashid even loves using art made by students at Esperanza—the West Town nonprofit org that supports children and adults with autism and other developmental disabilities—where she volunteers. “It’s all about capturing each client’s vision and translating that vision into an art program that pushes beyond the client’s expectations. And unlike a gallery who reps certain artists, anything goes.” sl

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Fredman Design Group took care to ensure that the home’s interior exudes the colors and elements of its natural surroundings on Lake Michigan.

HARMONY IN HARBOR COUNTRY A fully renovated beach house on Lake Michigan balances chic and comfort courtesy of Fredman Design Group.

By Marissa Conrad / Photography by Eric Hausman The magic of the latest Michigan beach house designed by Chicago’s Fredman Design Group starts before you even reach the front door.

A sweeping front path guides visitors through a veritable secret garden—short shrubs, tall trees, bursting bushes, greenery twisting and turning around a beautiful wooden arbor. To one side, an aquablue pool boasts Adirondack lounge chairs that beg to be occupied by a bookworm with a satisfying beach read. “By the time you get to the front door, your curiosity is raised,” says Fredman CEO Terri Crittenden. “Wouldn’t it be awesome if all architecture did that?”

The curious guest has a lot to look forward to. Redoing the 6,000-square-foot Harbor Country home was an exercise in “playful creativity,” says Susan Fredman, the design group’s founder. “This is a property right on the beach, with a guest house, a theater, a lookout tower. It’s a great place, and we were looking to give it a new feeling.”

These days, Crittenden runs the firm with what she calls a “soulful” approach, something that boils down to a lot of 80 slmag.net

conversations about meaningful connections between their clients and their space. What emotions should each room elicit? How can the design feed the client’s soul? How can it capture their life, and also transform it through thoughtful design choices?

It’s easy to have these conversations; it’s harder to translate them into tangible things like sofas and staircases. That’s where Crittenden’s team, a 36-time winner in the ASID Design Excellence Awards and honored in the Best of Houzz awards the past five years running, comes in. Every detail, down to the buttery leather balusters on the staircase descending into the house’s great room, was carefully chosen to make the property feel embracing of visitors, and connected to the natural beauty of the beach. We wanted to provoke “that inside-outside feeling,” says Barbara Theile, executive vice president and senior designer at Fredman. As in, even when you’re inside, you still feel the wonder of the outdoors.

For the great room, Fredman Design Group created a grand gathering space with a custom Holly Hunt cocktail table and ample couches with upholstery designed exclusively for the home.

The centerpiece of the front entryway is a handmade wood and acrylic bench with lavender-filled flower planters designed by Terri Crittenden.

The Fredman team added texture and contrast to the great room’s grand, airy openness with this pair of La Luna lounge chairs by Janus et Cie.

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Gray, white and blue tones, a custom millwork feature wall and an area rug designed by Fredman Design Group and handcrafted by Lapchi make the master bedroom a peaceful respite.

To cultivate the oneness with nature seen throughout the home, this guest bedroom pairs the light wood tones of Fredman Design Group’s custom-made bed and side table with calming blues.

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The custom cabinetry in the master bedroom includes a desk made from a slab of wood that was left unfinished on one side.

The master bathroom pairs custom millwork and cabinetry from Fredman Design Group with custom stone tiles from Paris Ceramics.

The master bathroom features a soaking tub placed atop a rich, wooden platform designed and built

by Fredman Design Group.

The Holly Hunt cocktail table in the great room, a customdesigned orb carved neatly in two (a half-moon cradles a smaller second piece to create a perfect circle), is emblematic of this vibe.

With a diameter of 80 inches, it can accommodate every glass and magazine your friends could possibly accumulate (“To us it just says, ‘relax!’” Crittenden says), and the gleaming finish is reminiscent of a “big rock out on the lake, that’s so smoothed over from being lapped by the waves constantly,” Theile says. “Also it’s on casters, so each piece is moveable”—to be slid closer, perhaps, to the wooden wing chairs (also from Holly Hunt) at the base of the steel-and-leather staircase (a collaboration between Fredman Design Group and MILK Design), or the comfy sofas covered with custom upholstery from various lines, including Perennials by Ann Sutherland.

“So many manufacturers are doing beautiful indoor/outdoor fabric now, so that people can feel comfortable just coming in from the beach. Don’t worry if you still have sand on your feet or if you

might sit down with a wet towel, because the fabric can take it,” Theile says. “It’s a beautiful room; please touch.”

Crittenden is quick to point out the master bedroom suite, “an important space that was created with a lot of thought, after a lot of conversation,” she says. It’s done in a peaceful combination of gray, white and blue tones, with a custom millwork feature wall and an area rug designed by Fredman and crafted by Lapchi. “The colors we used in the bedroom and the living room were really soft—beach colors without feeling too beachy,” Crittenden says.

“Sophisticated beachy.” The team redid the master bathroom in a stunning combination of natural wood and white Cambria stone, and added a window in the shower to build a stronger connection to the outdoors. Windows are an essential design element all over the house, Crittenden adds: “The whole back of the house is windows.” It doesn’t hurt that they look out directly to the beach, where Lake Michigan’s peaceful waves meet sun-kissed sand.

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A playful mirror backsplash by Fredman Design Group and Simes Studios and bold Subzero and Wolf kitchen appliances come together in the kitchen.

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Henry Hall lounge chairs, Lightology dining lights and a custom Fredman Design Group sectional find a home on the screen porch.

With lush greenery hugging the home’s exterior, as seen here on the pathway to the front entrance, being at one with nature was central to Fredman Design Group’s direction.

By combining high-end finishes with earthy elements and muted flooring, dining on the screen porch is the epitome of beach-house luxury.

The kitchen, too, is bathed in natural light, and plays into the idea of bringing the outdoors inside: The base of the island is made from natural wood, topped by a lustrous white waterfall countertop.

Stools pulled up island-side are made entirely of reclaimed wood, grooved with the telltale natural cracks and ridges. A mirrored backsplash by Fredman Design Group and Simes Studios adds a uniquely personal touch. It’s painted with a poem chosen by the homeowner, “someone who has such an unbelievable spirit,” Crittenden says. “She wanted it to feel personal, so we did it in handwriting, like someone wrote someone a letter in the kitchen.”

It was the kitchen that prompted the home’s overhaul in the first place. The ice-maker went awry last year, causing a minor flood in the kitchen. “That started a conversation about replacing the wood flooring, which started a conversation about a couple of other things we needed to do, which started a conversation about some of the colors…” Theile says. “We took the ball and ran with it.”

This was a particularly meaningful project for Susan Fredman; she owned this beach house before selling it to the

current owners almost 20 years ago. When Fredman discovered the property, it was a simple brick ranch home. “I bought it to renovate it and sell it,” she says. The new owners, with four young children, were a near-immediate buyer, and “had lived it in for more than 15 years,” Fredman says. “The house was charming and classic, but needed updating.”

One fun bonus of the renovations: The Fredman Design Group team was able to create new shelving and display cases for much of the artwork in the house, a vast collection that includes a number of original American flags. “One of the things that was really fun was taking this amazing art collection and putting everything in a new spot so that you see it in a new way,” Fredman says. She calls the entire renovation project, from start to finish, “a beautiful collaboration between talented people.”

“This project was all about the client’s well-being,” adds Crittenden.

“If we can touch lives with the power of meaningful design, and help draw magic out of a space, then we’ve done our job.” sl

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Gensler Chicago incorporated mosaic tile on the floor, a common feature among original tied houses, as well as custom ceiling tiles to replicate the tin ceiling at Schubas Tavern.

HOUSE RULES

After more than 20 years away, James Beard Award-winning chef Debbie Gold once again calls Chicago home, and brings her brand of inventive flavors to Tied House.

By Lisa Shames / Photography by Anthony Tahlier It wasn’t my first time eating an exotic sweet potato dish in a restaurant, but it’s the only one I can’t stop thinking about. The Okinawa variety, its light purple flesh a tip-off to its provenance, is baked in salt then broken into small pieces and deep-fried to order. The crunchy exterior of the tuber fritter is intensified by the contrast of its soft interior. A smattering of barely cooked baby turnips, dollops of fromage blanc and a dusting of puffed sunflower seeds finish the plate. Immediately after my last bite I wanted to eat it all over again.

There are a lot of lovely surprises going on at Tied House, which opened in late February, beyond its potato prowess. It’s the type of risk-taking restaurant you’d expect to find in the West Loop or River North, but not in Lakeview, attached as it is by an enclosed walkway to the grungy but lovable Schubas Tavern (Tied House is from Audiotree Group, which owns the neighboring bar/music club as well as Lincoln Hall).

Its design from Gensler Chicago is beautiful everywhere you look. After passing through the large wooden door and down a short hallway, you’ll see the dining room just behind the hostess stand. The space has an L-shaped, burnished-tan tufted leather banquette on two walls and a freestanding marble credenza on the other. Shelves filled with plants and quirky knickknacks hang above 88 slmag.net

it. Blond wood midcentury-modern-like chairs complement the wood floor underneath them.

The other half of Tied House is taken up by its lounge, which includes a gorgeous 25-foot-long white marble bar and high-top tables nearby. The hunter green leather of the barstools’ seat cushions echo a similar color you’ll find painted on a few of the restaurant’s walls. Copper accents are another common theme, including those on the aforementioned shelves—also found behind the bar—as well as the Frank Lloyd Wright-esque light fixtures and the trim surrounding the narrow ceiling mirror, which offers a unique view of all the action below it. Outside, Tied House’s modern brick façade provides a thoughtful, pleasing symmetry to the historic one of Schubas.

Another pleasant surprise is Debbie Gold, the restaurant’s chef, who got her start in the industry cooking at Michelin-starred restaurants in France before heading to Chicago in 1988 to join the kitchen at the then-new Charlie Trotter’s. A stint as pastry chef at Everest was followed by another few years in France before Gold moved to Kansas City. There, she earned plenty of acclaim and awards, including a James Beard, while at The American and 40 Sardines. After 20 years, she decided it was time to return home to Chicago. (Note to Gold: We’re glad you did.)

The focal point of the patio is a massive, pre-patina’d copper fireplace.

Intuitive plant design by Pistil & Vine

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Tied House Executive Chef Debbie Gold

At Tied House, Gold uses her varied restaurant background and expertise in both the sweet and savory sides of the kitchen to create dishes that are beautifully balanced and nudge diners just a bit out of their culinary comfort zones. “I like to challenge myself to take simple foods and bring out the best in them to make them extraordinary,” she says of her cooking philosophy.

Extraordinary is a word I’d use to describe the green tomato marmalade, which is both tangy and sweet. Should you opt for the bread course—and you really should—it’s one of the five spreads that can accompany the warm house-made Parker House rolls and slices of seeded rye and honey-oat porridge bread. Throw in the bone marrow butter or chicken liver mousse and you have a terrific snack to accompany one of Tied House’s equally terrific cocktails. I quite like the Two. “It’s like a traditional martini but with pisco instead of gin,” said the friendly bartender, informing us that the expertly curated 90 slmag.net

cocktail, wine and beer lists were created under the direction of General Manager/Beverage Director Meredith Rush.

The global wine list is full of interesting options, including a number of funky organic and biodynamic ones. The draft beer list leans heavily toward Chicago, but in keeping with the history of its neighbor—Schubas originally was a Schlitz “tied house,” a preProhibition system in which a single brewery exclusively supplied a bar’s beer—there’s Schlitz on tap, too.

Beyond the bread, the rest of the menu is divided into Vegetable, Sea and Land sections, with a handful of dishes in each. So what’s the best way to tackle it? “Treat it as a tasting menu,” says my server, which is great advice, especially when it’s perfectly paced out.

In the Vegetable section, the maitake mushroom is a worthy competitor to the sweet potato. Paired with a mound of softly scrambled eggs, the natural umami flavor of the mushrooms is heightened with a leek broth poured tableside.

Maitake mushroom with farm egg, shoyu and leek broth

Raviolo with duck egg, potato, dash and sesame seeds

Short ribs with black garlic, morel and potato

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Beeswax-aged mackerel with squash blossom, ramps, duck and green almond

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The Wedding Cake dessert is made with angle food cake, red current, frosting and rose petals.

There’s only one pasta on the current menu: a giant raviolo stuffed with a creamy potato mousse and a runny duck egg. Dashi broth is poured over it, but the fun doesn’t start until you break the egg’s yolk and watch it slowly ooze into the liquid (come for brunch, a fun mix of traditional dishes and ones that definitely aren’t, and the just-cooked egg in the Breakfast Ramen 1.0 will provide a similar show as it mixes with meaty broth, thick slices of lamb bacon and sea beans). Things get even better once you actually take a bite.

Mackerel isn’t a fish you often see on restaurant menus in these parts as its strong, oily flavor can sometimes be a hard sell.

But at Tied House, Gold ages it for 12 days in beeswax, which softens its hard edges and adds a deepness that wasn’t there before.

“It’s fun to experiment and try different things, plus I like my chefs to learn about what’s going on in the world’s top kitchens,” says Gold of the unique technique.

The Land section of the menu offers the most options with six to choose from, ranging from Berkshire pork terrine and bone

marrow to short rib. Order that last one and you’ll be rewarded with a tender chunk of meat that’s been slowly braised with lemongrass, ginger and coriander. Two garlic sauces—a sweet black garlic miso and a white garlic cream—add additional flavor.

As would be expected judging by the dishes before it, dessert also pushes the envelope ever so slightly. There’s a sheep’s milk yogurt ice cream with white balsamic and a riff on a Creamsicle.

For her version of a slice of wedding cake, Gold deconstructs it with torn pieces of angel food cake on the plate with freeze-dried raspberry and rose petals. Cooking the cake in the microwave— for just a few minutes, says Gold—adds moisture as well as creates a unique texture.

After having been away from Chicago for so long, Gold admits there have been a few challenges, including educating herself on all the changes in the city’s dining scene. But, she says, “It feels great to be back. I’m having fun.” We can definitely tell. sl Tied House, 3157 N. Southport Ave., 773.697.4632. tiedhousechicago.com

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photo production: Schawk Studios Account Director: Tearle Calinog Photographer: BETHANY PUTERBAUGH Styling: Aimee Ventura / Maggie Jarecki Art Director: Tomoko Nagle Model: Colleen Kloster -- Factor Chosen

Hazelnut crisp and pistachioraspberry cake topped with raspberry and pistachio

WHAT A GEM

From humble beginnings to a Chicago catering powerhouse, Jewell Events Catering celebrates 50 years at the cutting edge.

By Lisa Shames / Photography by Jason W. Kaumeyer While a 50th anniversary is a milestone worth celebrating in any business, when it comes to the ever-changing world of event catering, it’s almost unheard of. Unless, that is, you’re Jewell Events Catering.

The Chicago-based hospitality company, launched in 1967 and going strong ever since, has been behind some of the city’s most talked about events and weddings. Need proof? The King of Sweden, Prince Charles and Princess Diana, and a number of sitting presidents have all been on Jewell events’ guest lists. Countless celebrities, too.

However, founder George L. Jewell’s British sensibility keeps him from name-dropping much beyond that. He’s come a long way from his days of serving afternoon tea sandwiches at a small florist shop in Lake Forest, Ill. In 1967, after moving to Chicago to work as a private butler for a prominent family, Jewell combined his schooling in hotel management from Acton University and Oxford with his experience apprenticing in some of Europe’s finest hotels and working for top London caterer Searcy to launch what is now a multimillion-dollar company with 150 full-time employees, 300 part-time staff and a 40,000-square-foot facility in West Town.

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So what is the secret to his company’s consistent success? “Being aware of society’s changes and the desire to be unique in our field,” says Jewell. “As well as listening to our clients’ wishes while guiding them with a classical approach.” Clearly, he’s been asked this question before.

You see, staying ahead of the curve has been a signature of Jewell Events Catering from the beginning. While tastings are a common practice today, they weren’t always. Jewell was one of the first local catering companies to do so, recalls its founder.

And in 2007, the company began its Jewell Green Initiative, an environmentally friendly program that includes utilizing purveyors within a 150-mile radius, adhering to the Monterey Bay Aquarium Seafood Watch List and using biodegradable cleaning products at its warehouse and kitchen.

And way before it became trendy, Jewell was leading the way in farm-to-table dining. But the company has taken the movement one step further by using produce from local, urban gardens throughout the city. Additionally, Jewell is working with Portage, Ind.-based Green Sense Farms as a way to grow its green

Chocolate almond cake with red wine-poached pears and pomegranate sorbet

Charcoal spice cake with pumpkin bavarois, raspberry pearls, cranberry compote and crème anglaise

initiatives while reducing its footprint. Green Sense Farms’ micro greens, baby greens, culinary herbs and lettuces are grown free of pesticides, herbicides and GMOs via vertical gardens—the practice of growing produce in vertical stacked layers, using soil, hydroponic or aeroponic growing methods for sustainability—to conserve energy, reduce waste and recycle resources.

It was the company’s diverse partnerships and philanthropic outreach dynamism that attracted Kendall College alum and pro chef Greg Jenkins to Jewell in 2013. In 2015, he was appointed president of the company, allowing George—who is now, in his own words, “well-seasoned”—to focus mostly on longstanding private clients. “This company looks beyond the corporate walls of a business and asks how it can help Chicago on a larger scale,” says Jenkins, who has worked with some of the restaurant industry’s top chefs, including Charlie Trotter, Rick Bayless and Carrie Nahabedian. “This company has and will always remain supportive of the arts, education and children, as well as elegance and the relentless pursuit of unobtrusive service and impeccable style.”

Prime beef carpaccio with chimichurri, pistachios and microgreens

Farm fresh heirloom bruschetta with grilled vegetables

Another way Jewell has managed to not only survive but thrive in this highly competitive industry has been through developing and expanding its service over the years. Beyond corporate catering and weddings, Jewell also offers Jewell To Go, a fresh meal delivery service to offices and homes; Jewell Picnics; and a cake division, Urban Icing, known for its gorgeous 3-D sculpted cakes. Jewell also does contract dining, including a recent partnership with Lyric Opera of Chicago for its two in-house restaurants—a white-tablecloth venue and a more casual bistro-style spot.

When asked if he had any idea, back when he was serving tea sandwiches some 50 years ago, that this is where he’d be today, George Jewell speaks frankly and modestly, of course, as he is often prone to do. “As new opportunities came about, I was extremely grateful. One goes along a day at a time, with no great expectations, and then life has a way of rewarding those who work hard, trying to reach their fullest potential.” sl Jewell Events Catering, 424 N. Wood St., 312.829.3663, georgejewell.com

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Sound Investment offers a vast spectrum of state-of-the-art audio, lighting and video solutions, staging and scenic design.

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CULTURAL EVOLUTION The Experimental Station revitalizes Chicago’s South Side with creativity and cultural change.

By Alexandra Sabbag / Photography by J. Michael Eugenio More than 120 years ago, the Columbian Exposition of 1893, also known as the Chicago World’s Fair, put Chicago’s South Side on the map. The area underwent a huge development boom along the Midway Plaisance, a pedestrian walkway that connected the South Side neighborhoods to the World’s Fair attractions. (The Midway still exists and is the stretch of park between South Stony Island Avenue and South Cottage Grove Avenue.) The World’s Fair ushered in Chicago’s Era of Reconstruction, giving way to a Gilded Age of industrial growth and mass immigration. And by the 1920s, the South Side was a hub for tourist hotels, swanky jazz clubs and specialty shops.

As recently as 50 years ago, Chicago’s South Side was in its prime. According to the Encyclopedia of Chicago, more than 81,000 residents called neighborhoods like Hyde Park, Woodlawn and Jackson Park home. Today, Woodlawn has fewer than 25,000 residents and, according to the City of Chicago Data Portal, more than 30 percent of them live below the poverty line. Historically speaking, discriminatory postwar housing practices, white flight and economic disinvestment all played significant roles in turning a thriving community rich with history and culture into one that’s been scarred by economic despair and crime.

Thankfully, many of Chicago’s innovative and impactful organizations are devoted to reviving the South Side, but only one, the Experimental Station (experimentalstation.org), is an incubator for artists, orgs and businesses committed to cultural change. Owners and founders Connie Spreen and her husband, artist Dan Peterman, bought the onetime recycling center building located in Woodlawn, just a few blocks from the original World’s Fair grounds, in 1993 and established it as artist studios. Original tenants included Baffler magazine and custom furniture makers Jay Hayward and Big Fish Furniture. And in a small space on the northeast corner of the building, Blackstone Bicycle Works, a bike shop that provided an earn-a-bike program for neighborhood kids willing to trade in a little sweat equity for a bike of their own.

“Frank Lloyd Wright said, ‘Create an experimental station where art and technology would come together under one roof,’”

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says Spreen, a Woodlawn resident for 20 years before moving to Kenwood in 2008. “So that’s exactly what we did.”

Unfortunately, tragedy struck in 2001 when a fire burned the building to the ground. Spreen and Peterman spent the next five years rebuilding and, in 2006, reopened—this time as a nonprofit incubator for cultural programming aimed at nurturing a healthy, independent cultural infrastructure on the South Side. And they named it the Experimental Station, natch.

“Today, our Experimental Station fosters a dynamic ecology of innovative educational and cultural programs, small business enterprises and community initiatives to revive, connect and support South Side residents, addressing their ever-changing needs,” says Spreen. In addition to Experimental Station’s six initiatives—61st Street Farmers Market, Arts & Cultural Events, Small Business Incubation, Link Up Illinois, Link Access for Chicago Farmers Markets and Blackstone Bicycle Works, which they revived after the fire—Spreen says there are also five independent businesses and organizations currently under their roof: Build Coffee, a coffee shop and bookstore; Southside Weekly, a hyperlocal news outlet that reports on all things happening on the South Side; the Invisible Institute, a journalism production company working to enhance the capacity of citizens to hold public institutions accountable; City Bureau, a civic journalism lab that brings journalists and community members together in a collaborative spirit to produce equitable media; and Civic Projects, a collaborative architecture practice focused on design, build and engagement for civic-minded projects.

“We like to think of the Experimental Station as an ecosystem,” says Spreen, now Experimental Station’s executive director. “The space invites all different kinds of people to gather all in one place and see what kind of interactions come out of it.”

The only requirement to rent? A belief in the singular importance of hospitality and generosity as institutional values.

The output is worth celebrating, in particular the work of Blackstone Bicycle Works, which is now a finely tuned youth education program and community bike shop that teaches an average of 180 South Side youths per year how to work in the bike shop business, refurbish and sell used bicycles, and perform customer bike repairs.

“When we first moved to the neighborhood, we noticed a lot of kids and not quite as many bikes,” remembers Spreen. “If there was one bike, there were six kids on it.” Through Blackstone, after logging 25 work hours, each kid earns his or her first bike, lock and helmet. But as it turned out, the kids liked being there— the camaraderie, the sense of community and having a positive, collaborative environment to hang out—and kept coming back long after they had gotten their bikes. “Over time, Blackstone has evolved into so much more than an after-school job,” says Spreen,

Blackstone Bicycle Works provides educational and vocational opportunities to youth from some of Chicago’s most underserved neighborhoods.

noting that one-third of its kids have been involved for more than three years, and some as long as 10. “These kids consider the bike shop home. It’s where they spend most of their out-of-school hours—a safe place to seek guidance and support.”

So while Blackstone Bicycle Works was created to help kids get where they are going in a literal sense, it has transformed into a springboard for youth to achieve future life success. Youths participating successfully (many are from surrounding schools like Carnegie Elementary School and Hyde Park Academy, both in Woodlawn) have opportunities for paid summer and one-year internships in the shop, paid externships in other bike shops, free Kaplan ACT/SAT test prep, college and vocational school advising, college scholarships, and participation in Blackstone’s cyclocross racing team. And in 2018 and 2019, Blackstone also will award two to three paid Mechanic Apprenticeship positions for advanced youth mechanics. Over the course of two years, these apprentices will have the opportunity to take a two-week professionalization course at the United Bicycle Institute in Portland, Oregon.

Because of the amazing work of Blackstone and its other civicminded tenants, and funds raised during its annual fundraising dinner (read: a five-course meal prepared by One Off Hospitality chefs, led by Pacific Standard Time’s Erling Wu-Bower), the Experimental Station touts a more than 33 percent growth rate year over year, in large part thanks to corporate, government, community and private philanthropic support. In fact, Shinola, the

Detroit-based luxury goods brand best known for its Americanmade watches, bicycles and leather goods, feeling a kinship with Blackstone’s mission, has used its popularity to drive traffic and funding to the bike shop through events, including hosting a barbecue at Experimental Station and a fundraiser in the brand’s Rush Street store. In addition, Shinola also treated eight kids and four staff members from Blackstone to a tour of its Detroit manufacturing headquarters in 2015. The company even outfitted the bike shop’s homework room with laptop computers.

As for the not-so-distant future, the Experimental Station has hopes of acquiring a nearby fire station at 62nd Place and Dorchester Ave. to broaden its footprint. “Having witnessed how Blackstone youths experience the current building—as a safe space and a second home, where everyone knows everyone else, and where they gain a sense of belonging and participation in the civic life of the Experimental Station community—we aim to extend that space of belonging and safety from one to three blocks,” says Spreen. They also hope to add a commercial kitchen to support small food businesses, and office/retail space to rent at discounted rates to startup businesses and nonprofits. “We envision a continuous flow of kids and adults between the current Experimental Station building, Carnegie Elementary School and the fire station—and all of the people and places in between.” sl For more information on the Experimental Station and Blackstone Bicycle Works, visit experimentalstation.org.

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Megas Oenos Α legend of a wine, –very old Nemea vines, poor rocky soil, low yields, 21st century winemaking and philosophy– it illustrates elegantly how effortlessly old school and new wave blend together.

In spirit and in the glass.

Share Megas Oenos in this country and around the world and drink to its most enduring and endearing terroir.

Megas Oenos A modern Greek classic.

Since 1986 and counting…

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Imported by Diamond Importers Inc. Chicago, Il. www.diamondwineimporters.com

EST. 1986

SOPHISTICATED SOCIETY Presented by

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22nd Annual Chicago SummerDance, the largest annual outdoor live music and dancing series in the United States, chicagosummerdance.org 38th annual Taste of Chicago free outdoor food festival in Grant Park featuring more than 70 restaurants, concerts, chef cooking demos, art showcases and other family-friendly activities, tasteofchicago.us Gaming for Green benefitting Chicago Gateway Green, gatewaygreen.org The Women’s Board of Lincoln Park Zoo hosts Zoobilee, this year’s annual ball celebrating the zoo’s 150th anniversary, lpzoo.org Square Roots Craft Brew & Music Festival in Lincoln Square, squareroots.org Ravinia’s annual Gala benefitting Ravinia and Reach Teach Play, ravinia.org/page/galabenefit Shedd Aquarium BLU gala, sheddaquarium.org/blu Randolph Street Market, randolphstreetmarket.com

During this summer’s Taste of Chicago in Grant Park (July 11-15), The Flaming Lips will headline at the Petrillo Music Shell on Saturday, July 14, at 4:30PM (opening bands are Le Butcherettes and Half Gringa). tasteofchicago.us Photo by George Salisbury

August 9 9-11 18 25-26

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Step Up’s eighth annual Shine & Dine at Revel Fulton Market, suwn.org/sd Tent Sale: Rosé All Day Under the Big Top at The Golden Triangle, goldentriangle.biz 27th annual Dance for Life Chicago at the Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University, chicagodancersunited.org Randolph Street Market, randolphstreetmarket.com

Photos by Jordan Avery

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SOPHISTICATED SOIRÉE

More than 175 guests came out for Sophisticated Living Chicago magazine’s spring Sophisticated Soirée at Chez on Ontario Street. Revelers enjoyed a chic party setting appointed by HMR Designs with living walls by Sagegreenlife, sweet and savory bites by Jewell Events Catering, signature cocktails from Almighty Spirits, wine from Diamond Importers, beer from Solemn Oath Brewery, a photo booth from ShutterBooth, and music and dancing courtesy of Fig Media with audio by Sound Investment. But the highlight of the evening was a fashion show produced by VMR and featuring looks by Isabel Marant, Off-White c/o Virgil Abloh and more, with hair and makeup by GLAMD. –Taylor Morgan

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1) Chicagoan Kiki Silva wearing a black shirtdress by Isabel Marant 2) Andrea and Bob Ghaly, Vicki and Chris Naveja, Michael Marks, Sophisticated Living Chicago magazine owner and publisher Alison Victoria, Dean and Stephanie Gournis, and Jeff and Tracy Farley 3) VMR owner Tina Kourasis wearing Y/Project and VMR creative director Mark Gill wearing Yeezy 4) A model walking the runway at Chez wearing a jumpsuit

by Isabel Marant 5) Chicagoan Brooke Baumann wearing a gray and blue blazer by Off-White c/o Virgil Abloh 6) HMR Designs decked out the space, including a sleek custom bar. Living wall by Sagegreenlife 106 slmag.net 7) Tamara Nguyen, Afua S. Owusu, Siamak Saidi, Jessica Lawson, Cortney Hall and Mark Gill 8) Laura Rashid, Britnee Neidlinger, Alison Victoria, Liz Cuttica, Elizabeth Regnery and Britt Howard

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JOFFREY BALLET GALA

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The Joffrey Ballet, along with more than 700 of the company’s supporters, gathered at the 16th annual Gala in celebration of Ashley Wheater’s 10th anniversary as artistic director. Guests were treated to a performance by the Joffrey’s Company dancers, which featured pieces selected

by Wheater. Following the performance, guests were taken by trolley to The Palmer House Hilton for an evening filled with cocktails, dinner and, of course, dancing. The meal, crafted by The Palmer House Hilton, was inspired by traditional Swedish Midsummer fare in honor of the North American premiere of Midsummer Night’s Dream at the Joffrey. Sponsored by BMO Wealth Management, the signature event raised more than $1 million for the Joffrey’s operations and programming, including its community engagement programs. –TM

1) Ashley Wheater, Susan Oleari and Greg Cameron 2) Adam Blyde, Suzanne Lopez and Nicolas Blanc 3) Anne Kaplan and Dia Weil 4) Amanda and Jess Merten 5) Annie and Eloise Atzeff 6) Alexandra Lazar and James Dicello 7) Hans and Molly Pusch with Robert Wierema and Coco Meers

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Photos by Fig Media

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OPENING NIGHT OF THE CHICAGO ART + ANTIQUES + DESIGN SHOW

More than 375 design lovers put their best fashion foot forward for the opening night of the Chicago Art + Antiques + Design Show at theMART. After cocktails and hors d’oeuvres provided by George Jewell Catering, partygoers shopped the show featuring 80 premier national and international exhibitors. The festive evening raised more than $200,000 for The Woman’s Board of Northwestern Memorial Hospital’s programs and patient care initiatives, including a recent major commitment to fund the study of collaborative mental health care in Northwestern’s primary care clinics in Chicago. –Sally Meyer

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1) Coco Meers 2) Event co-chairs Elissa Kovas, Meredith Wood-Prince and Jennifer McKinney 3) Caroline Dolan and Caitlin Hough 4) Ruth Sommers and Nick Olsen 5) Jaala Good and Eileen Murphy 6) Shauna Owen and Cathy Busch 7) Wells Ryan, Ann Barlow, Meaghan Benjamin and Molly Flavin

Photos by James Gustin for Fig Media

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JENNIFER FISHER TRUNK SHOW

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More than 100 guests turned out for a private Jennifer Fisher Jewelry trunk show at Gibsons Italia, hosted by Sophisticated Living Chicago magazine Owner and Publisher Alison Victoria and Creative Director Bridget Daley. Gathering on the Italian steakhouse’s third-floor rooftop bar overlooking the Chicago River, guests sipped Prosecco and Champagne while trying on Fisher’s fashion, brass and fine jewelry collections, including best sellers like the 18K yellow gold Baby Samira hoops as well as new pieces like diamond-studded huggies and oversize pendant letters. Best of all, the New York designer was on hand to make style suggestions and help shoppers customize their baubles. –Elise Hofer Shaw

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1) Elise Thomas Jones and Hayden Jones 2) Annie Schweitzer, Heather Seidelman, Laura Rashid and Sophisticated Living Chicago magazine owner and publisher Alison Victoria 3) Alison Victoria, Jennifer Fisher and SL magazine Creative Director Bridget Daley 4) Colleen Dobell, Liz Lombardo Stark and Colleen Collins 5) Jessica Dunne and Sarah Aiken 6) Jessica Dunne, Bridget Daley and Nina Stuart 7) Hoop earrings by Jennifer Fisher 8) Colleen Collins

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BURBERRY X ELLE EVENT

Burberry and Elle magazine hosted an event in celebration of personal style at Burberry’s Michigan Avenue store. The VIP evening showcased an image portfolio of Burberry trench coats shot by photographer Julien Boudet, which was featured in the March issue of Elle, Nina Garcia’s first issue as editor-in-chief. Fashionable Chicagoans including Azeeza Khan, Julianna Zobrist, David Schwimmer, Yumi Minamikurosawa, Selah Say, Billy Dec, Kat Katopes and Stephanie Montgomery tried on the fashion house’s latest trenches and enjoyed a live set by DJ Matt Roan. –EHS

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1) Azeeza Khan 2) Shannon O’Brien 3) Kat Katopes with a model wearing Burberry 4) Billy Dec and Julian Boudet 5) Selah Say and Imani Bonne 6) Julianna Zobrist and Stephanie Montgomery 7) DJ Matt Roan

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CARA GALA Cara welcomed more than 500 guests to Morgan Manufacturing for its 2018 Cara Gala presented by JPMorgan Chase & Co. The signature fundraiser was co-hosted by Jo and Alexi Giannoulias, as well as Alison Victoria and Michael Marks. Civic and philanthropic leaders Dona and Sam Scott were honored. Guests enjoyed culinary delights from Limelight Catering, wine from Terlato Wines, and spirits from Almighty Spirits and MillerCoors. Flowers for Dreams provided the decor while the Gentlemen of Leisure band closed out the evening with music and dancing. The gala raised more than $640,000 to fund Cara’s mission to alleviate poverty and homelessness in Chicago. –SM 5

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1) Marne Deithorn and Rebecca Banks 2) Jo and Alexi Giannoulias with Sophisticated Living Chicago Owner and Publisher Alison Victoria and Cara President and CEO Maria Kim 3) Benjamin and Amanda Wilson with Laurie and Bill Conroy 4) William Daley, Bernie Keller and Alice Rooks 5) Charles and Maria Lin with Gina and Jeff Smith 6) Aleena Agrawal, Lauren McCann and Mollie Dougherty 7) Maria Kim with Sam and Dona Scott

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SOPHISTICATED WOMAN

By Bridget Daley / Portrait by James Gustin for Fig Media

MELISSA SKOOG Founder and President, SKOOG Collective, skoogcollective.com

When you look back on your career so far, what are the moments that you are most proud of? I’m most proud of having the privilege of working directly for, or having great exposure to, some of the biggest legends in fashion. I moved from my parents’ home in Hinsdale to New York City in 1996 and landed a job as Anna Wintour’s assistant at Vogue within two weeks upon my arrival. I then worked for Glenda Bailey, the now longtime editor of Harper’s Bazaar, followed by Mickey Drexler at Gap Inc. and Miuccia Prada.

It has been an honor to glean wisdom and life lessons from each and every one of them.

What is your favorite quote or motto? ‘It takes a village!’ I could never juggle kids and work without the tremendous support I have from family, friends and colleagues both personally and professionally.

Who is your mentor or muse? My mother, Joyce Skoog, will always be my muse. She considered herself a lifelong student of culture, the humanities and religion, and influenced me to always be curious about the world around me. She was also a huge advocate for early childhood education through her board work for the Ounce of Prevention Fund, a charity I, too, hold very dear.

Name your No. 1 life-changing, aha moment… In September 2014, I was 99.9 percent positive I was going to close SKOOG, so I had started taking steps to wind down my business. My dear mom had passed away that January after an almost yearlong battle with stage 4 inflammatory breast cancer. I had lost my biggest client 10 days before my mom died so I felt like I was hustling to keep everything afloat. Trying to juggle my two kids, who were 1 and 2 at the time, my business and carrying my profound grief was too much for me to bear. My husband was outwardly supportive of my decision to end my career but secretly worried I would regret it. Chris [Dunagan] asked me one simple question which made me take an about-face in my life: ‘What would your mom say?’ My mother was my first employee and loudest cheerleader, and I knew in that moment she would remain ‘with’ me to find the strength to rebuild and not give up.

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What sets your soul on fire? My children’s laughter, the smell of the eucalyptus trees in Marin County, watching Chef’s Table on Netflix, dinners with close friends and long walks along the lake.

What is your biggest mistake or regret? I left Vogue too soon. I quit despite Anna telling me it was not my time to go because I felt like it was the best choice at the time. I quickly realized I had made a wrong decision and I still regret not running into Anna’s office and asking for my job back. I was too caught up in the mindset of ‘finishing what I had started.’ I’ve since learned that it’s OK to admit to mistakes. It doesn’t mean it will always turn out the way you want it to, but at least you know you spoke your truth and owned your actions.

What is your biggest challenge—professional or personal—that you work on every day? Being OK with life’s unexpected twists and turns. Between my 5- and 6-year-old kids and running a business that demands a heavy travel schedule, every day is a balancing act and I’m learning to be OK with it.

Outside of your 9-to-5, in what ways to do you try to make Chicago a better place? I sit on several artistic and philanthropic boards that are near and dear to my heart, including the Women’s Board of the Goodman Theatre, the Rush Woman’s Board’s Outreach Committee, the Magnificent Mile Association and the Costume Council for the Chicago History Museum. My husband and I are also endowment funders via the Skoog-Dunagan Family Student Support Fund at University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, School of Fine & Applied Arts, to give students the opportunity to attend conferences, seminars and short-term internships to help further their future career goals.

Give us one word that best describes how you live your life…Bountiful.

Use three adjectives to describe the sophisticated woman you aim to be…

Calm, cool and collected. sl .

A historic community.

A modern real estate firm.

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