#ISSUE 2 by The Freeman Journal

THE FREEMAN JOURNAL

— Issue #2 thefreemanjournal.com

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CONTENTS

GEORGE BYRNE

HERMIONE UNDERWOOD

THE ART OF DINING

ONE THOUSAND MUSEUM

ART ROYALTY

EURO GLAMOUR GIRL

DAVID HICKS

THE CHEVAL BLANC

ALL YEAR ROUND

COVER STORY

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EDITOR’S NOTE

— THE JET SET As the world proves to be “getter smaller” as we are able to better connect with likeminded individuals internationally, a bold new society of international jetsetters has emerged seeing individuals from all over the world share their exciting and fast paced lifestyles. From the serene private villas of the Cheval Blanc Maldives or the ultimate charter experience aboard the 62 metre Baton Rouge Yacht, the second issue of The Freeman Journal reveals this years most coveted travel destinations and experiences. Furthermore, with ground breaking innovations also comes transitions as the Hennessy Legacy lives on, with the introduction of a new blend, Hennessy 8 and the iconic Sydney Opera House which too has passed the torch on, to Peter Gilmore who now acquires his latest restaurant venture within Sydney’s most iconic building. JACK FREEMAN

CONTRIBUTORS

DIRECTOR / EDITOR-IN-CHIEF ART DIRECTOR EDITOR CONTRIBUTING EDITOR PHOTOGRAPHY

Jack Freeman Finnian Mullally Muschinski Samuel How Joshua Hortinela George Byrne Prue Roscoe James Hickey Shannon McGrath

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SPECIAL THANKS

Rolls Royce, Amanda Mahoney, Matt Moran, Kylie Ball, Burgess Yachts, Y CO, Candy and Candy, Quella, Jeff Koons, Damien Hirst, Takashi Murakami, Marc Quinn, Bijan, Hermione Underwood, Pardon My Obsession, Matches Fashion, Erika Girardi, David Hicks, Jeff Andrews, Hess and Hoen, Quella, Cheval Blanc, Marion Dilley, Freeman Freighters

CONTACT — Publishing — Editorial Contributors — Advertising and Promotion

editor@freemanmagazine.net editor@thefreemanjournal.com jack@thefreemanjournal.com

thefreemanjournal.com

GEORGE BYRNE Following moving to Los Angeles, Australian photographer and musician George Byrne has proven to release his passion in capturing the inherent beauty within raw urban landscapes. Exhibiting his works both within Gallery Exhibitions and within his Instagram gallery, (@george_byrne) has seen the world enthralled by his subject matter. We spoke exclusively with Byrne:

WORDS BY FINNIAN MULLALLY MUSCHINSKI • PHOTOGRAPHY BY GEORGE BYRNE

- What made you decide to become an artist?

- What made you decide to relocate to Los Angeles?

Well I think you’re born an artistic person, it flows through you whether you like it or not, the decision you have to make is whether you want to dedicate your life to it and try and carve out a living. Which is daunting for obvious reasons. For me it was never a conscious decision or anything, maybe more a matter of necessity as I knew I was pretty good at photography and music and the alternative would be digging holes and serving drinks for the rest of my life. The thing I found is the older I got, the more focused I became on getting something serious done in the arts, I just wanted to put my head down and work, and that’s when the results started to happen. It’s only very recently that I could sustain myself of my work alone, so the whole thing is still quite surreal.

Looking back on it (2010) I was just at a point in my life that I knew I wasn’t going to grow unless I left my home country, Australia. It wasn’t really LA that was screaming my name, just anywhere I could be creative and try and get better at the stuff I was doing. I was also just craving a huge adventure, and I certainly got one coming here. The decision to stay in LA once I got here was just based on a deep sense of it being the right place at the right time. I had some work leads here and some good opportunities and I just found the place completely fascinating, I still do.

- What are you currently inspired by? Everything, my brain is exploding. I have a few different bodies of work that I’m thinking about.

- Where is your all time favourite destination and why? That’s a tough question, I’ve lots of favorites but the most seismic, life-altering trip I’ve had was when I went to India - just out of High School. This was just before the internet / smartphones had us all by the throat, so back then when you went places like that you really went! I was so young and naïve, I knew no-one and nothing, I recall being so high on life it was almost too much to bare, greatest feeling ever.

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THE QUELLA COLLECTION With a bold series of exotic statement pieces, we spoke exclusively with Quella Jeweller and Designer Rebecca Tilley about her current collection and all things lifestyle.

- What made you decide to become a Jewellery Designer?

- Where is your all time favorite destination and why?

My Grandmother had a beautiful collection of vintage statement pieces that I was constantly immersed in. This fascination opened up a love of all things sartorial, and after some years studying and working in the industry I found the knowledge and confidence to be creative with some of my own jewellery designs and Quella came to life from there.

Turkey would have to be my all time favorite. Istanbul is such a magical city filled with culture, fashion and food. A hot air balloon ride over Cappadociaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fairy chimney rock formations was an amazing personal experience, and swimming in the crystal blue waters off the coast is a must.

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- What is the current collection inspired by? The Arlo collection is inspired by bright lights and big cities. I wanted to create luxe statement pieces that made the wearer feel amazing and ready to take on the town. The mix of sparkling Swarovski crystals and intricate yet feminine shapes give equal parts glam and edge to each piece. - What items could you not live without? Being from Melbourne I am a boots girl, so I would have to say that my favorite pair of ChloĂŠ boots are my go accessory. I am rarely seen without a pair of statement earrings on and my IPhone is never far from reach.

- Where to next? Next is a relaxing holiday in beautiful Fiji later in the year, but New York City is always calling, so there are plans to get back there as soon as possible. Coming up next for Quella - I am really excited to release a capsule collection of statement earrings mid year!

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LIFE OUT OF SUITCASE With an Instagram gallery glowing with an endless galore of trips around the globe, Hermione Underwood has forged a career out of her chic lifestyle, with her tens of thousands of follower’s eager to see her latest destination, outfit and accessory. We spoke exclusively with Underwood:

-Describe the day in the life of Hermione Underwood

-Being a frequent traveller where is your all time favourite travel destination?

It depends where in the world I am. I usually wake up fairly early and read emails over coffee and breakfast, primarily to catch up on the Australian day. Home is currently London and an average day means, client meetings, shooting and working away in Notting Hill. When travelling, it means a mixture of work and exploring. As long as I have my laptop, I can work from anywhere!

Home will always be my favourite destination, Sydney. Otherwise, I visit Saint Tropez and Capri every year and recently had the fortune of spending time in The Maldives and on safari in Africa which were both extraordinarily beautiful.

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-What made you decide to launch your blog hermioneolivia.com? I was constantly being asked questions about recent travels and so I decided to solve the problem by putting everything in one place online, hence hermioneolivia. com was born. It has since expanded to include snippets of my personal style, health and new life living in Europe. -What designers are you currently inspired by? Gucci has had the greatest comeback of all time. I’m still a huge advocate for Australian designer’s and I love Alice McCall, Josh Goot and Bassike. I’m also a huge fan of the new British label KALITA, and The Outnet’s label Iris and Ink.

-Where to next? I’m currently on a flight from Bermuda to New York City. The next few months will mean a lot of time in Australia, Asia and Europe.

-What five items could you not live without? Only one: my passport.

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THE ART OF DINING With impressive views of Sydney Harbour and its iconic Harbour Bridge, Sydney Opera House and a sprawling span across much of the city’s incredible skyline and waterways, sits two of Sydney’s finest restaurants, both headed by Executive Chef Peter Gilmore.

Quay, the signature Fine Dining Restaurant of Gilmore, proves to offer an artful degustation menu, which blends seamlessly with the dramatic views that glimmer into the glass jewel box that sits atop the Sydney Overseas Cruise Terminal within the Historic Rocks precinct. Each dish reflects both Gilmore’s ingenious use of the highest quality Australian produce with a creative flair that sees each dish excite and impress. As Australia’s most awarded restaurant, the Quay dinning experience does not disappoint, offering a remarkable journey of the senses. Across the water a few hundred metres sits Bennelong, Gilmore’s second Restaurant located within the iconic Sydney Opera House, where diners may experience the same flair and attention to quality as Quay, yet a more relaxed and casual affair. With a respect of the best of Australian produce, The Fink Group revitalised the space mid last year into the premiere casual eatery, offering various dinning options from a business lunch, special occasion or tourists looking to savour the finest Modern Australian cuisine on offer. With an upmarket dining room on the lower level offering three course dinning and pre and post theatre options or on the upper level “The Cured and Cultured” experience ideal for a casual eat as well as the glamorous Bar offering dining options and opportunities to mingle within the drama of the atmospheric space, it is the place to be.

truly unique dining experience, one which is completely removed from the everyday. Quay’s menu is certainly more technical than Bennelong’s but celebrating great Australian produce is at the heart of both restaurants. At Bennelong we offer a variety of different dining options – be it sitting at the Cured & Cultured counter and sharing dishes, enjoying a cocktail and fresh oysters in the Bar or dining downstairs in the Restaurant which offers a more formal 3-course menu. Bennelong is a quintessential Australian experience in arguably Australia’s most iconic building – The Sydney Opera House. - What would be your greatest memory as the General Manager of Quay & Bennelong?

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We spoke exclusively with Quay and Bennelong’s General Manager Kylie Ball and Executive Chef Peter Gilmore: - How would you describe the dining experience that is Quay and Bennelong? PG: Quay is our flagship fine dining restaurant, the food is innovative and textural with nature being a strong influence. Bennelong is our sister restaurant and an exciting, fresh experience in the Sydney Opera House – it is a little more casual than Quay but with a great emphasis on the best Australian produce. KB: Quay is a destination for special occasions and a luxurious experience where people generally book months in advance at Quay, our passion is to deliver a

KB: My proudest career moment would be opening Bennelong in July 2015. Being involved from the tender process to opening the doors, recruiting our wonderful staff and being part of a team that has been so highly recognised in our first six months. I’m very proud of what we created at Bennelong. My first year at Quay saw us placed 46th on the World’s 50 Best Restaurants list and is one of my greatest career highlights to date along with 14 years of three Chef ’s hats and still being a part of a restaurant that is always pushing boundaries and striving to innovate. I am very lucky to work with such an amazing team. - How would you describe modern Australian cuisine? PG: Modern Australian cuisine is very strong at the moment. We have great produce to work with here and a multitude of influences from our multicultural society. - What would you say is the greatest part of your job? PG: The greatest part of my job is being able to be creative and to give joy and great experiences to our customers.

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OBSESSED WITH FASHION With an impressive wardrobe of designer looks and an international following, 25-yearold French blogger Caroline of Pardon my Obsession proves to be an innovator as she travels the world sharing her experiences to destinations including Cannes, London and Rome. We spoke exclusively with the rising digital influencer.

- Describe a regular day

- Where is your all time favourite travel destination?

A regular day usually starts at 7 am with a tea, then I check Instagram and my mails. I wave my boyfriend goodbye, then I wait for the postman to deliver my packages. Then I answer my mails, and I’m off to some meetings. After that, I go see some friends, then I take some pictures for Instagram and my blog. These days, I skip the events, and go straight to my new place, as I’m redecorating everything. Then I prepare my post for the following day, we order some sushis or Italian dinner, and if I’m not too tired, we watch a movie.

I love London. It’s close to Paris, and I love its energy, its fashion, its culture. I go there at least four times a year, and I’d love to live there someday.

- How would you describe french fashion?

- What five items are you coveting?

French fashion is very under the radar, very chic, not attracted to trends but rather by personal style. French women hate colors, they love their neutrals and basics, but can be super glamorous once in a while.

A Vêtements pair of jeans, a Gucci Dionysus bag, Gucci loafers, a Self Portrait dress, and a Maison Michel straw hat.

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- What are you currently inspired by? I’m inspired by all the new emerging designers that have this amazing vision : Ellery, Vêtements, Marques’ Almeida, Ronald van der Kamp... All are very different, but the future of fashion is so exciting !

- Where to next? I’m going to LA in the beginning of July, and I am beyond excited as I’ve never been. I’m sure it will be fantastic, and I can’t wait !

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ROLLING INTO THE FUTURE In a spectacular event at London’s Roundhouse this month, the Rolls-Royce VISION NEXT 100 was presented. The car defines the future of luxury mobility. Codenamed 103EX, marque’s first ever pure ‘Vision Vehicle’ of Rolls Royce History.

he Rolls-Royce VISION NEXT 100 presents an intriguing and aesthetically dynamic vision of the future of luxury mobility – a completely personal, effortless and autonomous Rolls-Royce experience, wrapped in a design that ensures a ‘Grand Sanctuary’ for its occupants, and a ‘Grand Arrival’.

demands in the future, Rolls-Royce presents an exciting and highly appealing vision of effortless, autonomous, spacious and beautiful luxury mobility, as personal as each individual customer.

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The Rolls-Royce VISION NEXT 100 anticipates the mobility demands of the luxury customer of the future. Brought to life by Rolls-Royce after many months of study and consultation with current patrons of the brand, the car represents their clearly expressed desire for an assurance that the marque’s plans for the future of luxury personal mobility will continue to embody the key attributes that have made Rolls-Royce the preferred marque of the most discerning and powerful patrons in the world for over a Century. With the Rolls-Royce VISION NEXT 100, the brand provides just such an assurance to its valued customers – present and future. It makes a bold and definitive statement of confidence in a future where Rolls-Royce rejects the notion of anonymous, utilitarian and bland future modes of mobility. Through an intimate understanding of its customers’ thinking and their

In creating the Rolls-Royce VISION NEXT 100, the Rolls-Royce Motor Cars design team, led by Director of Design Giles Taylor, asked themselves the question, “How can we recast luxury for the next 100 years?” Within that question the team found that they had to address two further questions: “What will a RollsRoyce owner expect of his or her Rolls-Royce in the coming decades?” and “How do we at Rolls-Royce today envision how we meet those expectations?”. These questions allowed the team to dream of the staggering possibilities for Rolls-Royce’s future. Rolls-Royce intimately understands its patrons and their likely desires and motivations in the future. It understands that true luxury is deeply personal and that the hallmarks of every Rolls-Royce past and present are key to its future. The designers therefore distilled four key tenets that not only underpin the elegant solution that is the Rolls-Royce VISION NEXT 100, but epitomise the future of luxury

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THE CANDY YACHT Award-winning SEALYON fuses high glamour with contemporary design. With opulent detailing throughout by Candy & Candy, this yacht offers the best of everything to the most discerning guest.

Advert Boasting a split-level master suite, elevator, gym, and a media room featuring a 103-inch Plasma screen, splitlevel sundeck, with revolving circular sunbed, outdoor cinema and misting system, Sealyon is truly one of the finest yachts on the water. The Multi-award winning yacht built by Viareggio Superyachts and with exceptional interior design by Candy & Candy proves to offer international jet setters a luxurious stay. Plush interiors and luxurious finishes make this yacht truly unique proving to set it apart from other yachts of its size. Such acclaim for the vessel

has gained it high recognition within yachting circles winning the International Yacht Award for its interior design scheme. Currently offered for sale and charter by Y CO the yacht further boasts a fully equipped office enabling guests to remain in touch, whilst enjoying the pleasures of their success including the yachts extensive watersports featuring jetskis, Seabobs, towables and a 7 metre slide. The main and upper decks also feature a gymnasium, Jacuzzi, sunbeds and various casual and formal dinning areas.

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ART ROYALTY In current art markets, a new wave of contemporaries prove to be making names for themselves and setting new records with sales reaching over 100 million dollars for single lots of art.

Damien Hirst

mother sculpture on display at the Venice Art Biennale.

Known as the godfather of contemporary art, British born Hirst has amassed a considerable fortune as one of the worlds richest living artist’s with an internationally recognised body of work including fine art, a dedicated museum, merchandise, fashion, jewellery and restaurants. Jeff Koons

His success has proved to have catapulted over the past decade with his recent collaboration with French Fashion House Dior featuring a limited edition collection of small leather accessories. The collection reinterprets the famous Lady Dior Bag creating an important statement about the human relationship with nature and beauty. The collection marked the opening of Dior’s largest UK store and an exciting new venture of the British artist.

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With a fun and kitsch selection of impressive sculpture and painting, New York based artist Jeff Koons proves to be a loved and loathed character in the art scene. Yet with much speculation over Jeff Koons role as an artist employing a significant team of assistants and his high priced art fetching tens of millions of dollars, one thing is for certain his work proves to bring out the inner child in all of us.

Takashi Murakami Recognised as one of Japan’s most prolific contemporary artist’s, Takashi Murakami has made a name for himself with the reinterpretation of the superflat artistic movement using it to argue how the differences in social class and popular taste has produced a culture with little distinction between ‘high’ and ‘low’.

Marc Quinn With a series of billionaire collectors and an extensive body of work spanning over his life as a successful artist, works by Quinn have included a famous gold sculpture of Pamela Anderson and the controversial pregnant

Murakami’s successful career was heightened following collaborations with music artists such as Kanye West and Pharrell Williams as well as most notably his role in redesigning the iconic Lois Vuitton monogram.

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EURO GLAMOUR GIRL Leading a chic lifestyle, fashion stylist and lifestyle blogger Mailili Sasabone proves to be making her own mark as she displays her cool edge on European Fashion. We spoke exclusivelty with Mailili.

Describe a day in the life of Mailili Sasabone

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It depends on the day. Right now I’m still in school so that’s is a big part of my daily life. I usually wake up very early, on the way I’ll get coffee and breakfast. I always go by train (the luxury life of a blogger). An average blog day means; brand meetings and lots off shoots. I’ll end my day with my friends or writing a new post before I go to sleep.

Definitely Gucci, they made the biggest comeback with Alessandro Michele. I’m currently craving almost everything from storets.

The Moluccan! I had the best experience over there with my family and the island is so beautiful.

-What made you decide to become a fashion blogger? As a 13 year old I followed a lot of bloggers on Instagram, back then I was way to young and decided to start on when I was done with school.When I became 17 I didn’t want to wait anymore because blogging is such a popular thing right now.

-What designers are you currently coveting?

-Where is your all time favorite travel destination and why?

-What 5 items could you not live without? I can live without items easily but a phone, passport and laptop are the things that make my life much easier.

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ITALIAN MODERNISM MEETS INNER CITY MELBOURNE Inspired by the age of cocktail parties and glamorous entertaining, this inner city family home in Melbourne offers liveable luxury able to cater to formal gatherings or a quiet night in. We spoke exclusively with designer David Hicks.

WORDS BY FINNIAN MULLALLY MUSCHINSKI • PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHANNON MCGRATH

- What was the brief ?

- What are the fundamentals of a David Hicks home?

The clients on this house wanted something streamlined and sophisticated yet very liveable. With a large young family, they required some grown up areas that were more glamorous for entertaining and some more casual family areas to hang out in and relax. They wanted these disparate zones to have a different feel yet be able to visually flow.

The fundamentals of a David Hicks designed home are that of the client’s vision. We like to help clients create something special in which they can retreat, entertain and relax in. Our core principles are making the flow and layout work for the client’s needs, the bones of the project if you like. Upon this we layer the materials and detail and then the decorative - which includes soft furnishings, feature lighting and window treatments. This layering, not only of design but of process, creates a cohesive result that is tailored to the client’s needs. Our solutions are classic, high quality and very sophisticated.

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- What were you inspired by?

Our main aim was to create two distinct zones. We wanted the more formal, or grown up areas to be luxurious and chic so based this scheme loosely on midcentury Italian modernism. We wanted to evoke the era of the cocktail party, when the world was becoming modern and more chic. The entry to the house had a European villa feel to it, so this was carried through. A darker more dramatic colour palette was used to offer a more sumptuous layered feel of high end lux. A more relaxed, sandy feel was carried through into the family areas and inspired, on contrast, by coastal Italy, with whitewashed walls, concrete flooring and white sheers – providing a much more laid back vibe.

- Where is your all-time favourite travel destination? I love the island of Capri. This beautiful Italian island is very chic and charming. You really feel like you are somewhere truly glamorous yet relaxed. It is an island of contradiction which is fascinating to me.

- How would you define luxury? Luxury for me is quality and that can be quality in sleep, food, clothing or travel. I love anything in life that has a high quality about it and it does not have to be expensive. True quality can be as simple as a perfect glass of champagne or an amazing piece of art.

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A NEW CHAPTER HENNESSY 8 RELEASE As Hennessy 7th generation Master Blender Yann Fillioux prepares to pass the keys to the cellar to his nephew, Renaud Fillioux de Gironde, Hennessy 8, a premium blend of the 250 year old Maison Hennessy is created. WORDS BY FINNIAN MULLALLY MUSCHINSKI • PHOTOGRAPHY BY HENNESSY

Hennessy 8, composed with the knowledge that it would be a one-time creation, a singular hymn to freedom, passion and originality. For Yann Fillioux, this cognac blend is nothing less than “a Master Blender’s dream come true”. “The number 8 is the eternal symbol of perfection, as Hennessy·8 well illustrates,” notes Yann Fillioux. “For me, it embodies ideal simplicity and absolute perfection.” Crafted in hand-blown Baccarat crystal, the Hennessy·8 carafe is a veritable masterpiece of crystal-making savoir-faire. Its design features 8 inset rings, an ode to eight generations of Master Blenders and the eight eaux-de-vie inside. Observed as a whole, this virtuoso

composition is greater than the sum of its parts: in creating an impression of movement, it forms a tribute to the Maison Hennessy’s traditions of constant innovation and passing down know-how from one generation to the next. A crystal stopper engraved with a floral motif reprises the notion of eight rings, while a copper silk thread around the bottle’s collar leads to an “H” medallion sealed by a ribbon, a specialized technique perfected by Hennessy’s sister house, the Maison Guerlain.

THE CHEVAL BLANC RANDHELI The lavish Cheval Blanc Randheli proves to be the ultimate exclusive Maldivian resort catering to the needs of royalty, oligarchs, celebrities and super rich families, all of whom flock to the island year after year.

Operated by the Louis Vuitton Moet Hennessy Group, the luxurious six star 45 villa resort is something out of a dream. As one is greeted by staff at Male Airport, the hotel’s private sea plane transports you into a realm of complete serenity. With immense villas, the smallest of which is 2583 square meters, include private infinity pools, taking its discerning guests breaths away. And for large groups or those simply looking for complete privacy, even from the worlds wealthiest, The resorts Owners Villa does not disappoint offering its own private island enclave featuring 4 bedrooms, and expansive living areas all opening out into the lush gardens, beachfront and infinity swimming pool.

Employing a dedication to offering the finest hospitality, each guest staying at the Cheval Blanc Randheli experiences personalised service second to none. The pure beauty of the natural surroundings of endless turquoise blues of the surrounding Indian ocean, provides the perfect backdrop to arguably one of the worlds finest hotels. Boasting five esteemed restaurants, each guest is able to savour the finest of international cuisines including a dedicated French restaurant

“1947”, “Diptyque” a Japanese and Iberian infused menu, “Deelani” a stunning fish and sea fruit menu as well as “White” the hotel’s premiere buffet dining option.

Furthermore, the luxurious spa located on its own private island, sees guests unwind in wellness programs, therapeutic treatments, massages, yoga and meditation, allowing one to become at one with themselves and revitalise the senses. Those looking for more adventure filled activities shall not be at all disappointed either as it offers various water sports including diving, water-skiing and windsurfing as well as fishing activities, fitness clubs and yacht charters on the hotels 98 Leonardo Azimut to which guests may enjoy day or overnight trips encountering native bannerfish, redtoothed triggerfish, barracuda and eagle rays.

The Cheval Blanc offers an experience unlike any other. One of which must be seen to be believed.

STEPHANIE SCOLARO SS PYTHON With a bold new range of exotic python skin accessories, Monaco based designer Stephanie Scolaro recently launched her latest venture offering likeminded jet setting youth bold new accessories for the European summer season.

- What made you decide to develop a range of rare python accessories?

As a lover of luxury fashion products and baseball caps, I decided to combine both of these factors to deliver a unique statement product. I noticed a gap in the market and although there are several python caps availableI wanted to produce a high quality, luxury product targeted at a niche market.

- Describe the regular SS Python clientele

The regular SS Python client is mainly based in the United States, Canada and Middle East. My clients are both female and male, generally between the ages 1840. My typical client is very social, open minded, has a ‘swag’ style, enjoys walking the streets in kickbacks and listening to hip hop music.

- What are some items you can’t live without?

I couldn’t live without my iPhone as I keep all my social and work appointments there, combined on one phone. My moisturizer and of course, my SS Python cap!

- Describe the perfect vacation?

The perfect vacation would be somewhere like Los Angeles or Dubai. The combination of both the beach and the city in one place. What more does one need?

- Where would you like to visit next?

I would love to visit Tokyo. The fashion and style of influencers there fascinates me. A fast paced, high population city with inspiration really interests me.

- How would you describe your personal style? - What fashion trends are you currently inspired by? My personal style is more laid back and casual. I live in my black ripped jeans, my Louboutin sneakers and my SS python cap. I believe a nice pair of designer shoes and a luxury hat can make any outfit.

I am inspired by cutting edge fashion. To name a few, Rick Owens, Alexander Wang and Helmut Lang.

ALL YEAR ROUND LAKE TAHOE American interior designer Jeff Andrews has always been thrown a curve ball when designing his extraordinary projects and his recent ski home project in Lake Tahoe was no different.

Working with demanding high profile clients ranging from successful entrepreneurs, wealthy families and Hollywood’s most glamourous, Andrews proves to know a thing or two about pushing boundaries and creating something truly unique. His bold style featured within the hit E reality show “Keeping up with the Kardashians” saw him decorate the sprawling Kardashian/Jenner compound which features a palatial double staircase, black and white theme and exquisite art and plus furnishings, creating both a dramatic set and warm and inviting family home for monarchs of reality television.

His recent work on a family ski home proved to challenge the traditional themes of a ski/lakeside vacation property exuding modern chic vibes whilst remaining a warm safe haven. Located within the picturesque Hurricane Bay and being a four-season family vacation home, the owners and their three children required an expansive six thousand square foot home which reflected an interconnected energy with both nature and each other. Andrews using both traditional timbers and modern furnishings and lighting he counteracted a visual harmony to which has resulted in a cool seasonal oasis catering for winter holidays and summer vacations. We spoke exclusively with Andrews:

-What were you inspired by?

We set out to create a home that was aesthetically more eclectic and contemporary than a typical, rusticstyle mountain home. The design was inspired by the elements of Lake Tahoe and this mountainous region with the use of natural fibers and organic materials. Reclaimed barn siding was used on walls and ceilings throughout, as well as granite from local quarries. Some key resources for the project include: McEwen Lighting,

Lucca Antiques, Jean de Merry, Mimi London, Gregorious Pineo, Scott Group Carpets, Urban Electric, Exquisite Surfaces, Waterworks, and Viking.

-What would you say the fundamentals of a Jeff Andrews designed home are?

I favor design that is classic, but with a definite edge, and an emphasis on vintage and custom elements. I like to use color palettes that are soothing and monochromatic, layered with rich textures and subtle pattern. Comfort and livability with a touch of glamour are key components to my aesthetic.

-Where is your all-time favorite travel destination?

Without a question, my favorite travel destination is Paris! It’s the most inspiring city in the world for me, so I always return creatively refreshed.

-Where to next?

Right now, I am designing a number of homes across the United States and in the Middle East. This fall, I will be released two new product collections including my first line of rugs for Mansour Modern, and Variations, a line of wood tiles for walls and floors for Jamie Beckwith Collection. After launching a furniture collection with A. Rudin and a wallpaper line with Astek Wallcoverings in 2015, I’m definitely looking forward to exploring more creative opportunities to design a variety of luxury products for the home.

LIFE IN THE 90210 ERIKA GIRARDI You may know her as one of the cast members of Bravo’s Real Housewives of Beverley Hills, but be warned there is more to her than what we see on camera.

WORDS BY SAMUEL HOW • PHOTOGRAPHY BY JAMES HICKEY

Erika Jayne or most commonly known as Erika Girardi would most normally be recognised as one of the fierce and fiesty members of Bravo’s hit reality tv series, The Real Housewives of Beverley Hills, but what the camera doesn’t show is her deep rooted passion for dance and her talents as a singer-songwriter. With a string of US dance chart hits, her brash and bold personality is heavily reflected within her music and style, with songs aptly titled ‘How Many f**ks?’ Jayne proves she will not be dismissed as a reality show wannabe but a creative power player who is in full control of her work. While her music taste borders on ratchet appeal, Jayne stil possesses a taste for the finer things in life, her travel and her luxury lifestyle is all heavily documented within the RHOBH where those featured are among the elite in the social ladder. Jayne is a unique character blend, a girl of both worlds who knows how to get down with the street but keeps high class for the occassion, like a social chamaleon, with Erika Jayne you never know where you will see her next. We spoke exclusively with Erika:

- What are you currently inspired by?

80’s hip hop, glamour girls, and fast cars.

- How would you describe your personal style?

S&M chic with a little hood rat appeal.

- What made you decide to become apart of Bravo’s Real Housewives of Beverly Hills?

My friend Yolanda Foster brought me into this wonderful circle of women.

- Where is your favourite destination of all time? - What made you decide to become a singer-songwriter and dancer? On a Yacht in the Bahamas, tough to beat. I have been performing all my life and I can’t think of anything else I would want to do. Any day that I get to create is pure joy.

- What would you define as luxury?

Being able to do whatever you want whenever you want.

THE ULTIMATE CHARTER EXPERIENCE Resembling the soft hues and casual chic lifestyle of life at sea, The Baton Rouge Superyacht proves to offer the ultimate charter experience.

Offered by Burgess Yachts, the 62.5 metre Icon Yacht available for charter within both the Mediterranean and the Caribbean is a true testament to exquisite craftsmanship, state of the art technology and forward thinking engineering. Baton Rouge’s Tim Heywood profile is as iconic as her sublime Redman Whiteley Dixon interior. Designed with a super-stylish beach house theme, the guest areas have a cool, comfortable vibe that perfectly suits both relaxation and entertaining in the exotic destinations Baton Rouge visits.

Starting the day with an energizing workout in the gym, or swim against jets in the bridge deck pool to work up an appetite are some of the many luxuries guests will experience when chartering the yacht. Others may prefer a more relaxed morning, enjoying a coffee and a long, leisurely breakfast on the bridge deck aft, before then stretching out on the sun pads that accompany the pool.

As the sun drops and the heat subsides, guests release their inner speed demon on the water with Baton Rouges extensive selection of water toys including tenders, wave runners, seadoo’s, seabobs, Segway’s, water ski’s and wakeboard’s, just to name a few. Though as the sunsets guests retreat to the large, luxurious beach club or grab a snorkel and plunge off the swim platform for a more sedate encounter with the sea.

Accommodating 12 guests in seven cabins, spread across three decks, the Baton Rouge Yacht is without doubt one of the most impressive charter yachts available with a vast 100sqm master suite and two private offices enabling busy professionals the ability to stay up to date and connect internationally with business from sea.

A GEM REBORN THE HERMITAGE VAUCLUSE Undergoing an immense transformation by Sydney based architectural firm Hess and Hoen, the Iconic Hermitage Estate in Vaucluse reveals a refreshed new look interior and a vibrant new grounds and swimming pool pavilion. We spoke exclusively with Brian Hess about the project. WORDS BY FINNIAN MULLALLY MUSCHINSKI • PHOTOGRAPHY BY PRUE ROSCOE & STYLING BY AMANDA MAHONEY - What were you inspired by when envisioning the Hermitage project?

Definitely the history and location. The old Gothic sandstone building, perched high atop a cliff face overlooking Sydney harbour was breathtaking. There was much to reference and much to respect. During the process, there were constant moments of surprise when discovering previously unused areas of the property. Responding to this in real time was really exciting. Not every aspect of the design could be fully realised prior to building beginning. There was the ability to design, assess and reassess along the way. The result becomes much stronger I believe when taking this approach. A strong vision is a must, but allowing moments of serendipity most certainly creates a great project. The project called for texture, pattern and use of natural materials to connect all the elements harmoniously and with a sense of timelessness.

- What was the brief ?

The brief was pragmatic. The layout of the two level building needed to be completely flipped on its head. It wasn’t working for the client. Kitchen was relocated to ground level. The bedroom now takes pride where the kitchen once existed. This pragmatic approach continued until the internal programme was just right for the owner – someone who had lived in the house for a long time and understood it well. With all this knowledge in hand, we knew what to do.

Works involved part demolition of a 1960’s extension (which was added to the old gothic structure during the 60’s) with the integration of new openings, walls, doors and windows. The internal finishes were replaced along with new fixtures and fittings throughout. Previously concealed, old sandstone walls were integrated back into the overall design – and celebrated..! Internal layout reconfigured to provide for the day to day living requirements of the owner. External works included extensive landscaping.

Once we felt we had it right with space, light and a sense of order, we began to look at how we would approach the feel of the space. Essentially, this is very much a reflection of the owner…the person using these spaces.

How they use the space, what they use it for, and how they want to feel when in each space. Careful selection of materials, matched with an understanding of how humans respond to them becomes the driver of this next phase. Until I establish what materials I am going to work with (based on client responses to how they will use the space etc), I don’t even think about how it’s going to look. My projects are not concept driven or trend driven. Nor are they influenced by style. They are driven by the need to work with the highest of quality (and in many cases natural) materials whose essential qualities, humans can connect with. Materials that age and patina with use and time. The projects must look better with age.

Understanding that space needs to nurture is so important. Understanding nostalgia, memory and a sense of place is essential. Homes are where we create memories. The investment is in the future, creating memories with family and friends – for the long term. With this in mind, residential design becomes more than what is on trend – it transcends time.

- What other projects are you currently working on?

A large private residence in the Eastern suburbs of Sydney. The residence has a colorful history with parts of the building important to the Heritage of the area and it’s architectural typology. Another dream project.

- Where is your all time favourite destination and why?

I would have to say Cavas Wine Lodge just outside of the town of Mendoza - a short flight from Buenos Aires, Argentina. For the location, architecture, food and the wine. The view from the lodges to the snow covered Andes Mountains is breathtaking.

- Where to next?

Sao Paulo - Brazil

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