merci 2nd anniversary
DESCRIPTION
ÂTRANSCRIPT
merci magazine 1
merciYour Lifestyle Magazine
2nd Anniversary Special Edition
Greg NataleThe Tailored Interior
Spirit of SustainabilityVivid Living
Time For RevolutionHelsinki Coffee Festival 2015
Christian lacroixMaison
BODW 2015By HKDC
Miami WorldcenterCity of the Future
GuildfordGregory Phillips Architects
THE AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF ARCHITECTS
HONG KONG CHAPTER HONORS & AWARDS 2015
2 merci magazine
CONTENTSEditor’s letter 4 Fresh starter with merci editor
Editor’s pick 8 Everything about White Vibrations, Pink Revolution and Yellow Fever
Special Inspiration 14 The Tailored Interview - Grey Nataile 26 The Essence of Nature 28 Guildford by Gregory Philips Architects 42 A collection is born - David Trubridge 46 The First Bioplastic Chair 50 Christian Lacroix Mansion - A tropical Paradise 54 Luxurious Intimate 56 Etro - The heart of the collection 60 BODW 2015 64 Storytellers of Space 70 Black to Black 74 Miami World centre 80 AIA Hong Kong Honors & Awards 2015 86 Gift Guide - Grace Leo 88 Spirit of Sustainability - Vivid Living 102 The Pottinger 114 Jazz at Lanson Place 120 Historical Restoration 125 In Bed with Designers 126 Splash of Colour 128 Hommage Millėsime 130 The free spirit of the French Jewely Event Inspiration 131 The Gentlemen’s Odyssey - Harbour City VIC ClubDestination Inspiration 140 Time for Revolution Helsink Coffee FestivalWine Inspiration 132 The Pure of one of a kind Receipe 146 Fish & Chips 148 Juicy Watermelon
2ndAnniversary Special Edition
merci magazine 3
Editor’s letter 4 Fresh starter with merci editor
Editor’s pick 8 Everything about White Vibrations, Pink Revolution and Yellow Fever
Special Inspiration 14 The Tailored Interview - Grey Nataile 26 The Essence of Nature 28 Guildford by Gregory Philips Architects 42 A collection is born - David Trubridge 46 The First Bioplastic Chair 50 Christian Lacroix Mansion - A tropical Paradise 54 Luxurious Intimate 56 Etro - The heart of the collection 60 BODW 2015 64 Storytellers of Space 70 Black to Black 74 Miami World centre 80 AIA Hong Kong Honors & Awards 2015 86 Gift Guide - Grace Leo 88 Spirit of Sustainability - Vivid Living 102 The Pottinger 114 Jazz at Lanson Place 120 Historical Restoration 125 In Bed with Designers 126 Splash of Colour 128 Hommage Millėsime 130 The free spirit of the French Jewely Event Inspiration 131 The Gentlemen’s Odyssey - Harbour City VIC ClubDestination Inspiration 140 Time for Revolution Helsink Coffee FestivalWine Inspiration 132 The Pure of one of a kind Receipe 146 Fish & Chips 148 Juicy Watermelon
4 merci magazine
EXECUTIVE DIRECTORPeggy Lui
ADMINISTRATIVE DIRECTORElsa Yuen
LIFESTYLE EDITORSPeggy LuiJenny Ho
Winnie Cheung
WINE & COFFEE EDITORWinnie Ng
ART DIRECTION/GRAPHIC DESIGNMerci Design Workshop
CONTRIBUTORSDavid YickKaman Yip
Peter LeungTimo Pitkanen
Martin KiabundeJenny AuRita Law
SALES & [email protected]
FOR ADVERTISEInterested in advertising in merci? Simply
email to [email protected]. We will be contact you in shorty with
our media kit and rates.
FOR PRESS RELEASES
We are looking for more up-to-day press release. Please send your information in
details to [email protected]
MERCI TEAM
All right reserved 2015© merci media
Editor’s Letter
Peggylui
Welcome back! It’s has been a long way for us to reach our
second anniversary publication. We have modified our themes
into new perspective of design and architect. On our new chap-
ter into the second year of online publication, we are going
to feature more fabulous and creative designers and architects
around the world. Discovering the new angles of design, art,
architect is always interesting.Just think for a moment: what if
we live our lives without creativity, how would it be like? Rec-
ognising design excellence in architecture, interior and urban
design is always great and the spirit of sustainability is always
an interesting topic for open discussion. We hope you enjoy
reading our magazine and find some great inspirationsas well
as creativity in our new issue.
www.merci-magazine.comwww.facebook.com/MerciMagazine
merci magazine 5
6 merci magazine
Peter moved to Hong Kong from New York City in 2013. He previously worked for several multinational financial institu-tions in New York, where he also founded and ran a research consultancy looking into the economic and social impacts of climate change. He transitioned away from finance and into the non-profit sector working in the field of environmental sustain-ability in Hong Kong.
TEAM MEMBERS
Yoga lover, foodie( mostly veg-etarian), love traveling when have time, best way to learn local cuisine!
Director of Nicywedding and Nicywedding Design.
Kaman YipDavid Yick
Peter Leung
merci
CONTRIBUTORS
Executive DirectorPeggy Lui
Administrative DirectorElsa Yuen
Editor (Lifestyle)Jenny Ho
Editor (Lifestyle)Winnie Cheung
Editor (Wine & Coffee)Winnie Ng
Timo PitkanenNordic extension of the Merci team, living in Finland but trave-ling frequently around the world.
Born and bred in Hong Kong, studied in Sydney and now returned home-land to pursue her aspiration in the field of art, design and marketing.
Jenny Au
A native of Hong Kong, Dr. Wing Man Rita Law is an adventure seeker. Upon receiving her doctoral degree in psychology, she and her husband performed music on indigenous African instruments around the United States. Today, Dr. Law continues to search for beauty and meaning in life. She currently co-runs a global travel business with her husband and conducts scientific research on mindfulness and self-compassion.
Rita Law
merci magazine 7
8 merci magazine
Editor-in-chief{Peggy Lui}
Editor Picks Lifestyle
White Vibrations
Indigo LivingMagnolia - TALL MAGNOLIA ARRANGEMENTHK 3990
ZaraDAMASK WALLPAPERHKD 399
BoConceptFan light pendantHKD 4,259
B&O PlayBeoPlay S3€ 399
merci magazine 9
White Vibrations
ghdwhite eclipse - New generation styling technology Unique and patented tri-zone™ technology uses six quick-thinking sensors (three on each plate) to ensure no heat loss during styling and a con-stant temperature is maintained in every strokeHKD 2,580
3.1 PHILLIP LIM Soleil mini textured-leather
shoulder bagHKD 7,790
Oscar de la RentaMini daisy dot print ruffle poplin topHKD 10,753.29
William SonomaBeaded Glass CollectionUSD23.95-39.95
10 merci magazine
Pink Revolution
EDITOR { Jenny Ho }
Editor Picks Lifestyle
GeorgeGeorge Home Pink Ombre Vase
£10
AccessorizeFestival ‘Drink Me’ Hip Flask
US$23
Shop Sweet ThingsPink and Black Hanging PlanterUS$68
B&O PlayBeolit 15 - Pink€499
ABC HomeSoftline – Apricot Swivel Curved ChairUS$1705.5
The Champagne CompanyLaurent Perrier Rosé Champagne Bird Cage Edition 75cl£69.95
merci magazine 11
SheinsidePink V Neck Backless Midriff Flare Dress
US$26
Pink Revolution
AccessorizeFestival ‘Drink Me’ Hip Flask
US$23
AnthropologieBlooming Bud EarringsUS$148
BurberryHydrangea Pink 402HK$180
PIERRE HARDYMajorelle tasseled suede sandalsHK$ 5215
12 merci magazine
EDITOR { Winnie Cheung }
Yellow FeverEditor Picks Lifestyle
TargetCarlisle Metal 24” Counter Stool (Set of 2)
USD$84.99
ALESSIDuck kitchen timer£35.00
DOT/DASHP.A.O.M.USD$435.00
Early ShadesColoniGBP £29.50
OldEnglishCoKitchen Lemon Print A4
HKD$190.93
merci magazine 13
LOEWERound leather coin purse£150.00
3.1 Phillip LimMimosa Yellow Mini Pashli Satchel USD $750
Yellow Fever
CholėV-NECK SHORT DRESS IN DOUBLE JERSEY WITH SIDE SLITSCRÊPE DE CHINE FITTED SHIRT WITH REMOVABLE TIE AND SIDE SLITS
BlossomYellow side table£50.00
14 merci magazine
merci magazine 15
Greg Natale, an interior award-winner. His comany in-
terior design company Greg Natale Design in 2001;
Greg is one of Australia’s top design studios, Natale’s
work examines the integration of design and deco-
ration in residential, retail and commercial spaces as
well as residential exterior design.
PHOTO COURTESY OF . WWW.GREGNATALE.COMBY PEGGY LUI
tailoredTHE
INTERIOR
16 merci magazine
merci magazine 17
18 merci magazine
merci magazine 19
20 merci magazine
merci magazine 21
22 merci magazine
Directing his passion for the principles, pos-
sibilities and heritage of design towards cre-
ating inspiring spaces that span from awe-
inspiring to intimate, Greg Natale’s style is a
study in vibrant colours, contrasting graphic
details, geometric patterns and rich textures.
Through exploring the layering of textures,
tightly editing a visual sense of balance as
well as thoughtfully styled modern touches
Greg Natale has hewn for himself a signature
look.
merci magazine 23
24 merci magazine
Today, Greg Natale Design’s product portfolio also continues to
grow with commercial and residential rug and carpet collections
for Designer Rugs, wallpaper collections for Porter’s Paints, furni-
ture ranges for Stylecraft and World’s Away as well as a cement
tile collection with Teranova. Later this year Natale will also be
releasing his first cushion collection.
September 2015 will see the launch of Greg Natale’s first book,
The Tailored Interior. With a forward by Jonathan Adler, this is a
design-lovers tome, demystifying the process of interior design by
addressing the process holistically and in real terms, accompanied
by breathtaking photography of Natale’s projects by acclaimed
photographer Anson Smart.
In my industry, it’s all very welll to be on trend but what gives a design longerity and meaning is the connection it makes with people. - Grey Natale
WWW.GREGNATALE.COM
merci magazine 25
26 merci magazine
the essence of nature
By Peggy LuiPhotographs Courtesy of TREE
merci magazine 27
Capture the essence of nature. Be inspired by feminine, organic tones and add a feeling of an oriental escape to your decor, or lighten up your living space with TREE’s signature Sophisticated furniture collection newly available in easy-going oak.
editor’s pick
Handmade in Thailand, cherry blossom storage boxes portray nature’s organic forms in the most sophisticated style. Delicate in design, these circular boxes feature warm acacia wood with chalky ceramic lids, lending unique texture combinations that add depth, character and elegance to any room.
A. Flower round cosmos box, HK$395 - HK$595B. Flower round nuvo box, HK$395 - HK$595C. Flower round nuvo canister, HK$395 - HK$595
A BC
Candleholders and decorative centerpieces echo the forms of exotic florals. Lovingly crafted from ceramic with highlights of rich, shiny copper, each piece from this feminine luxe collection is one-of-a-kind, and there are a wide variety of designs, shapes and sizes to choose from.
Carnation candleholderHK$295
hand-woven baskets from Vietnam. Inspired by on-trend Aztec patterns and featuring a blend of neutral and earthy tones, the baskets are bound together using natural materials in-cluding bamboo, seagrass and water hyacinth.
Seagrass basketsaHK$295 - $895
Handmade in Thailand. Ceramic with highlights of rich, shiny copper, each piece from this feminine luxe collec-tion. Instilling that romantic, warm “zen” feeling at home
Lotus candleholderHK$395 - $895
enquire: www.tree.com.hk
28 merci magazine
merci magazine 29
Photo courtesy of: Gregory Phillips Architectsby Peggy Lui
Guildfordby Gregory Phillips Architects
30 merci magazine
Gregory Phillips Architects were involved in the remodelling of this Victorian countryside
property whilst maintaining some of the original features. The client’s aspirations were
for a bright, open-plan living space which did not fit with the pre-existing extension from
the 1980s with narrow corridors and small rooms, somewhat of a rabbit warren.
The design proposal was for a two-storey extension in place of the existing 1980s one.
To comply with the planner’s demands for subtlety, a basement level was created to
accommodate the swimming pool by excavating into the sloping lawn. The main house
was completely gutted while the extension was being built.
The most striking part of this project is the new steel and glass structure. This new space
provides for a large, open-plan area on the upper level that relates to the main house
and takes advantage of the views across the countryside, whilst the choice of white
render for both buildings gives a visual connection between the old and new elements
of the house. The indoor swimming pool opens onto a terrace and the garden beyond.
merci magazine 31
32 merci magazineGreen bar stools: ‘Green Ghost’ by Philippe Starck from Kartell at CoexistenceFlooring: Ardern Hodges, walnut engineered board
merci magazine 33
The spaces flow beautifully into one another, thanks to the en-
gineered walnut flooring that has been laid throughout, whilst
the white-painted walls help to unify all the rooms. The theme
is largely monochrome with accents of bold colour and period
shades. The dining room is furnished with a mixture of tradi-
tional and modern pieces, including an 1840s table which is
the same age as the house. The interior of the Victorian wing
has been opened up and the rooms have been enlargened so
they are in proportion with the high ceilings.
34 merci magazine
Windows: Fineline aluminiumGlass door: Fineline aluminiumLarge sofa: ‘Nicoletti’ l-shaped sofa from Mac and Mac InteriorsSmall sofa: BoConceptFlooring: Ardern Hodges, walnut engineered board
merci magazine 35
Kitchen units: Boffi LT RangeKitchen surfaces: Brushed stainless steel and concrete grey ZodiaqDining table: ‘Tulip Table’ by Eero SaarinenCeiling lights: ‘Shomei’ by Light CorporationFlooring: Ardern Hodges, walnut engineered board
36 merci magazineUpstairs Hallway (link between old and new wings)
merci magazine 37
Bookshelf: DHJ, designed by Gregory Phillips ArchitectsRound coffee table: BoConcept
White and black chairs: ‘Orbital’ by Christophe Pillet for Modus at NestWindows: Original, refurbished by Ventrolla
Black sofa: ‘Scala’ black velvet daybed from Maisons de MondeFlooring: Ardern Hodges, walnut engineered board
38 merci magazine
On the left:Metal console: Client’s ownMirror: Client’s ownDining table: Client’s ownDining chairs: ‘Mr Impossible’, ‘Eu-geni Quitlet’ and ‘Victoria Ghost’ by Philippe Starck from KartellPendant lights: Client’s ownFireplace: OriginalSculptures and clock: Client’s ownWooden shelves: DHJ FurnitureFlooring: Ardern Hodges, walnut engineered board
On the right:Sinks: Flaminia twin set, deck mount-ed basins with pedestalsTaps: Vola, single level basin mixersMirrors: DHJBath: Bette Starlet, double ended bath tubRock sculpture: Amethyst CaveTowel rail: Eileen chromeShower: Vola and HansgroheGlass screen: MajesticToilet: Flaminia ‘Link’Flooring: ‘Kirkstone’ grey rivan slate by Burlington StoneWall detail: by Gregory Phillips Architects
merci magazine 39
40 merci magazine
merci magazine 41
Established in 1991, Gregory Phillips Architects is an interior design and architecture practice which aims to provide a be-spoke and holistic approach to high quality residential design both in the UK and internationally.
Born in London, Gregory Phillips was trained at Bristol Uni-versity and the Mackintosh School of Architecture in Glas-gow. He has a unique perspective when designing houses, rather like the Renaissance man, he provides elegant tailored design solutions for each project from the architecture to the furniture to the landscape design. His projects include city homes and stylish country residences for a wide number of high-profile clients, reflecting his creativity, experience and discretion.
Gregory is committed to achieving the highest level of design and bringing professionalism and dedicated project manage-ment to all of his work. His approach has also produced many award-winning projects for both architecture and interior design, including the International Design and Architecture Award for the Best House in Europe, International Property Awards, Sunday Times British Homes Award, RIBA Awards, Daily Mail UK Property Awards, Grand Designs Awards and Homes and Garden Award for Best Bathroom Designer of the Year.
Gregory Phillips Architects’ current projects include new build contemporary houses, basement excavations, substan-tial residential extensions and refurbishments, new swim-ming pools and apartment interiors.
With all his projects, Gregory takes into consideration the client’s lifestyle as he believes a house should be a home that provides sanctuary for the owners, as well as providing luxury and beauty. His work is modern, elegant and comfort-able and uses traditional materials such as stone, wood and leather in a contemporary way with a high degree of crafts-manship.
www.gregoryphillips.com
ABOUT GREGORY PHILLIPSARCHITECTS
42 merci magazine
www.christian-lacroix.com & www.myvistaalegre.coma collection is bornDAVID TRUBRIDGE
merci magazine 43
David grows up in England, studies Naval Architecture. He goes back to
basics with the purchase of a block of land, complete with ruined build-
ings. Once restored, the family seeks a somewhat different experience:
they sell up and buy a boat, Hornpipe. They set off on an open-ended
journey across the sea. While teaching at a workshop in Australia, David
begins to play with geometric structures found in nature. One particular
experiment stands out and becomes the Coral light. It is developed as a
kitset to reduce its ecological footprint. This establishes a new modus op-
erandi for the growing company.
44 merci magazine
Many new lights appear, taking inspiration from the natural world and translating them
into products that can be assembled at home. David call this approach the seed system.
Today, David employ over twenty staff in his showroom, workshop and studio in Hawke’s
Bay, New Zealand. They strive to be as sustainable as they can, choosing materials such
as bamboo that regenerates and designing his products as kitsets. the involvement in
the creation of light and hope we enjoy their process!
merci magazine 45
46 merci magazine
THEFIRSTBIOPLASTIC CHAIR
100% BIOBASED, BIODEGRADABLE AND RECYCLABLE
merci magazine 47
Alki workshop. Set against the backdrop of the Pyrenees, nestling in a valley at the foot of the mountains is the village of Itsasu and the Surrounded by nature, a unique environ-ment in which it is a privilege to work and one which we strive to protect by seeking out new and integrated methods of production. The oak they use comes from sustainably managed forests and most of our upholstery is madefrom 100% natural materials (wool, natural fibres, linoleum, etc.). Kuskoa Bi, aim to be a comfortable, enveloping chair and to achieve opted for a semi-concave shell. The material that best enables this shape to be created is plastic. Alki workshop also believe, the production of plastic not only depletes the world’s diminishing fossil resources, it is also a pollutant that harms the environment and is therefore contrary to our fundamental principles on sustainable development. To find a solution to this dilemma, they carried out in-depth investigative researc and found a new material: bioplastic.
Bioplastic is a polymer with similar characteristics and properties to plastics made fromnon-renewable fossil fuels. It can be injected, extruded and thermoformed but it is made from 100% plant-based renewable resources (beet, corn starch sugarcane, etc.).
100% BIOBASED, BIODEGRADABLE AND RECYCLABLE
48 merci magazine
This biobased polymer is fully recyclable and its organic properties mean that, when subjected to an industrial process, it is biodegradable. Moreover, another significant environmental aspectlies in its reduced carbon footprint as bioplastic production results in reduced greenhouse gas emissions. The use of bioplastic is currently being researched in a num-ber of different industrial sectors, including the automotive industry. True to our principles, we wanted to participate in this sustainable development approach by breaking new ground with the pioneering manufacture of a bioplastic chair.
merci magazine 49
Kuskoa Bi is the first chair on the mar-ket to be manufactured in bioplastic. Its particularly enveloping shell, cut out in such a way as to optimize back and arm support, is delicately placed on a solid wood trestle. An upholstered version is also available.
www.seventhirtyam.com
50 merci magazine
Created by Sydney local Tina Clark, Sagitine is a premium collection of storage solutions that capture the elegance of good design while offering a minimalist approach to storing and categorizing your most precious fashion items. Unlike the conventional clunky storage furniture, Sagitine boxes are so versatile in placement that they can seam-lessly be integrated into any home! Chic, elegant and functional, Sagitine’s boxes are made from high-grade sus-tainable cardboard with monogrammed leather handles. These boxes are exceptionally flexible as they are stack-able and can be used conveniently for multi-purpose. To maximise flexibility, they can be purchased singly or with accompanying aluminium stands, which transform the boxes into storage units.
Apart from the beautiful shoeboxes, a board range of equally chic and environmentally friendly accessories are available to help preserve your treasured items, including aromatic pouches filled with organically grown herbs, beautiful English-made polished horn clothes brushes, cedar blocks, and drawstring muslin bags etc, to keep your items clean and secure from environmental changes.
By: Peggy Lui | Photo courtesy by: Sagitine
merci magazine 51
For enquires: www.sagitine.com
Available in three sizes and two classic colours - black and white – the boxes are ideal for shoes, garments accessories, and even gowns.
Explore a tropical paradise in this exotic collection from the House of Lacroix This season,
Christian Lacroix Maison invites you on a journey where breathtaking new worlds await. Its
colours and textures are intense. The sheer spectacle and beauty of undiscovered worlds
reminds us that there is no better creation than nature itself. Nouveaux Mondes, the new
Christian Lacroix Maison fabric and wallcovering collections for Designers Guild, celebrate
the exotic flora and fauna of that journey through dense rainforests alive with spectacular
wildlife and through the lush, verdant vegetation of Caribbean islands.
Christian lacroixMaison
A TROPICAL PARADISEBy Peggy Lui
Photographs Courtesy of Christian Lacroix
52 merci magazine
merci magazine 53
Tropical paradise in this exotic collection from the House of Lacroix, colours and textures are intense. The sheer spectacle and beauty of undiscovered worlds reminds us that there is no better creation than nature itself. Nouveaux Mondes, the new Christian Lacroix Maison fabric and wall covering col-lections for Designers Guild, celebrate the exotic flora and fauna of that journey through dense rain-forests alive with spectacular wildlife and through the lush, verdant vegetation of Caribbean islands.
These designs celebrate the raw and unspoilt variety of nature as if remembered through a travel-ler’s dream - “Manaos” a tumbling display of the bright exotic edible delights hanging from the cano-pies in the heart of the forest, while “Mariposa” and “Rio” depict the beautiful multicoloured winged insects that fill the air as we reach through the branches to taste them. Intricately detailed butterflies and more are layered in all their diversity and majesty. At the foot of a waterfall, the “Iguacu” vel-vet mirrors the reflection of light and colour as the water tumbles through the sunlight. Within this spectacular new world, we glimpse a panther, or was it a tiger, or both? “Pantigre” is an exotic and colourful combination only possible within a dream. The forest canopy is captured in all its vitality in the “Canopy” design – bursting with exotic flowers, feathers and foliage on a lattice work trellis that adds a structure to the wild and wonderful.
Away from the forest, the collection offers moments of reflection and a return to the fringes of civilization. Bathed in sunlight, “Barbade” is a memory of the elegant wicker baskets that adorn the market stalls, laden with nature’s bounty.
http://christian-lacroix.com
54 merci magazine
merci magazine 55
luxuriousintimate
Founded in 2000, apaiser is an award winning Australian international bathware
designer and manufacturer recognised as the world leader in the supply of luxury
stone composite bathware, bathtubs, basins, vanities and shower bases. apaiser’s
design philosophy is simple, they aim to create a luxurious and intimate sanctuary
in the bathroom, like no other. To do so, they work with elite designers such as
Kelly Hoppen MBE to attain the perfect bathing experience. Their hand-sanded
and hand finished stone composite bathware is renowned for its curvaceous lines
and striking form. apaiser offer unrivalled bathware customisation and design
flexibility, resulting in designs that fit all spaces, contemporary or traditional.
Formulated with optimum performance in mind and using reclaimed sustain-
able ingredients such as crushed recycled marble; each piece from the apaiser
bathware range has minimal impact on the environment, yet does not compro-
mise on quality, resulting in beautiful, organic and eco-friendly bathware.
apaiser’s bespoke creations are hand-crafted by skilful artisans and are the
bathware of choice for leading designers, hotels and resorts across the world due
to their low maintenance material and effortlessly elegant finish.
56 merci magazine
Inspired by the light of an exotic South, ETRO home collection is more and more graphic: strong colous,
luxury embroideries and dissolving details meet in a bright balance. The lightness of floral foliage adds
a touch of metropolitan elegance. Pink, ruby, blue and grey alternate across Paisley jacquard fabric,
whilst sherbet hues and soft-toned motifs celebrate and aristocratic eighteenth century. Vivid brush-
strokes explore new degrade, combined with stripes and tartan. A mix of elegant maiolica designs,
antique, kimonos, fresh and joyful shades gather in a play of beauty. The new Etro Home Furnishings
is an elegant collection of armchairs, sofas, beds, lights and tables, where top quality materials com-
bine with Etro classic fabrics, eclectic colours and sophisticated designs. The rich Italian craftsmanship
reveals itself through unique furnishing pieces, such as lacquered woods combined with hides and
chrome plated metals; delicate foliage of Achillea or the intense velvets of Malia stretched over the
frames of chaise longues and sofas, while Paisley patterns appear on coffee tables and bedside tables.
The capsule collection blends the traditional made in Italy with innovation and history with a contem-
porary edge, presenting the Etro world and lifestyle.
“Pattern is as always, at the heart of the collection.”ETRO By Peggy Lui
Photographs Courtesy of ETRO
merci magazine 57
The warmth and richness of home interiors lie at the heart of the new Autumn Winter 15-16 Women’s Collection. The swirling motifs
of furnishing fabrics are produced through weaving and elegant embroideries. Ornate wallpapers, rich tapestries and luxurious uphol-
stery textiles provide a lush canvas for a relaxed attitude.
58 merci magazine
While remaining grand and elegant, the visuals have also
been able to create a relaxed and easy attitude, an es-
sence of ETRO AW15 collection. On Man style book, it’s
defined into six different categories. They are Sartorial
(Avant-Grade), Sophisticated (Elegance), Camouflage (ef-
fect), Casual (Paisley), shades of Autumn and Journey of
style.
For more detials: www.etro.com
merci magazine 59
60 merci magazine
BODWBUSINESS OFDESIGN WEEK 2015Asia’s leading annual event on design, innovation and brands, Business of
Design Week 2015 (BODW 2015) this year welcomes Barcelona as its first
ever Partner City. A cultural capital renowned for its creativity and rich artis-
tic heritage, Barcelona is a hub of community-driven smart design.
merci magazine 61
On its 12th anniversary, BODW brings the world’s most outstanding
design masters and influential business figures to Hong Kong. It is
organised by the Hong Kong Design Centre (HKDC) and supported by
Create Hong Kong, with an aim to inspire the regional audience on
creative thinking and design management, and to provide a valuable
platform for idea exchange and business cooperation.
Dr. Edmund Lee said: “We are absolutely delighted to welcome Bar-
celona to BODW 2015 as our first ever partner city. Partnering with
a city rather than a country puts our focus squarely on this year’s
programme embrace of community and culture. Design in Barcelona
is both community driven and forward-thinking, but never at the cost
of the city’s rich traditions.
He continued, “Hong Kong and Barcelona both value the power of
design in creating business and societal values. It is a timely juncture
to explore how good design contributes to cities of the future. We are
exvited to explore new possibilities and expand our horizon. We also
look forward to working closely with our community collaborators
PMQ, partners and out stellar line-up of world-class speakers sharing
62 merci magazine
their insights and project experience from Hong Kong, Bareclona and
from around the world.”
The great creative talent of Barcelona, a city worldwide recognized in
different fields ranging from design, architecture and urbanism, gas-
tronomy or sports, will be vividly captured through stories of projects,
brands and personalities, including among others:
The story of Antoni Gaudi’s iconic Sagrada Familia will be presented by
Dr Jordi Fauli, Head architect. Snapshots of Barcelona’s rich modern her-
itage will be viewed through the lens of beloved football club FC Barce-
lona, cutting-edge fashion brand Desigual and others. Inspiring sneaker
from Baccelona. Marto Gulxé, CEP & Designer, Concepts and ideas for
Commercial Purposes. Known for his unconventional approach to design
fusing diverse disciplines into one creative force.
The story of Antoni Gaudi’s iconic Sagrada Familia will be present-
ed by Dr Jordi Fauli, Head architect. Snapshots of Barcelona’s rich
modern heritage will be viewed through the lens of beloved foot-
ball club FC Barcelona, cutting-edge fashion brand Desigual and
others. Inspiring sneaker from Baccelona. Marto Gulxé, CEP & De-
signer, Concepts and ideas for Commercial Purposes. Known for his
unconventional approach to design fusing diverse disciplines into
one creative force.
Outside Barcelona, BODW is welcoming renowned international
speakers from a diverse range of fields. These include David Butler,
merci magazine 63
David ButlerVP Innovation & Entrepreneurship
The Coca-Cola Company
Jaume PlensaArtist
Plensa Studio Barcelona
Jordi FaulíArchitect Director and Coordinator
Technique Office Works of theTemple Expiatori Sagrada Família
Maria Balshaw CBEDirectore
The Whitworth, University of Manchester and Manchester City Galleries & Culturefor Manchester City Council
Jorge PensiArchitect Director and Coordinator
Jorge Pensi Design Studio
VP, Innovation and Entrepreneurship of The Coca-Cola Com-
pany (US); Mark Waites, Co-founder of leading independ-
ent creative agency Mother London (UK); Sonja Zagermann,
Swiss Editorial Designer and recipient of multiple book de-
sign awards (Switzerland); representatives from London-
based design collective Assemble (UK); and Alejo Verlini, Co-
founder & Head of Design of Bluesmart, a U.S./Hong Kong
start-up revolutionizing the travel experience.
Mr Agusti Colom, newly appointed Councillor of Barcelona,
said: For Barcelona, It’s a great hour and challenge to be the
first partner city of the BODW. It will also be an occasion to
strengthen the bonds of friendship and cooperation between both
cities. We understand Design as a strategic tool with significant so-
cial and economic impact, helping make our companies more com-
petitive, increasing the sustainability of our neighborhoods and im-
proving citizens’ quality of life and well being”
For further information, please visit www.bodw.com and follow us
on Facebook at www.facebook.com/bodwhkdc.
Chi Wing LoFounder
1ness/Dimensione
SPEAKERS BODW
64 merci magazine
STORYTELLERSOFSPACEBy Peggy LuiPhotographs by Jenny Ho
“We are selective and only commit to projects that we feel passionate about,
those that evoke an emotional response or spark our collective imaginations.
It starts with an overarching theme that serves as the foundation. From this
basis grows a story and design concept, evolving into a strong narrative.”
- AB Concept’s design philosophy
merci magazine 65
66 merci magazine
Based in Hong Kong with offices in Bangkok and Taipei, AB Concept comprises of a leading team of interior designers supported by pro-ject architects; in-house production, graphics, products and FF&E teams from almost a dozen nationalities. Each of their designs tells a unique story through a spatial experience that is underpinned by the essentials of Architectural precision in space planning and a Bespoke sensibility that reflects the artisanal quality and craftsmanship of each project.
Steering the company’s vision are designers Ed Ng and Terence Ngan. Imbuing each project with their distinct sense of style and unerring eye for detail, the duo has earned a reputation for design excellence and uncompromising quality.
With Ed and Terence overseeing all of the design elements – from the façade and architectural form to the interior detailing – each of their projects maintains a consistent vision. The pair is involved in every stage of the process, weaving a unique story from start to finish and crafting a compelling narrative each time.
merci magazine 67
Each of their designs tells a unique story through a spatial experience that is underpinned by the essentials of Architectural precision in space planning and a Bespoke sensibility that reflects the artisanal quality and craftsmanship of each project.
68 merci magazine
merci magazine 69
Honoured at prestigious international awards, AB Concept has been recog-
nised multiple times at the esteemed Interior Design Best of the Year, An-
nual Gold Key Awards, the Hospitality Design Awards and the International
Hotel and Property Awards. Most recently, their project for the Shangri-
la Hotel in Qufu took the 2014 Hospitality Design Award for Best Public
Space, and their Shang Xi restaurant in the Four Seasons Pudong Shanghai
took the Forbes Travel Guide accolade for Best Chinese Restaurant in China.
Last but not least, their top-floor duplex at 39 Conduit Road was awarded
the Best Design Apartment for Hong Kong for the International Property
Awards 2014. AB Concept’s thoughtful designs and uncompromising qual-
ity have earned them a reputation for creating evocative visual statements
and inspirational interiors.
enquires: www.abconcept.net
Gym facilities inside AB Concept office
70 merci magazine
merci magazine 71
BACK TO BLACKSmoky is back! Base colours of charcoal slate and black are lifted by jewel tones of dark ruby and
emerald green while flashes of silver and reflective surfaces make the design scheme lighter.
PHOTO COURTESY OF INDIGO LIVING
72 merci magazine
Crystal accessories and glassware provide a deliate touch to this essentially strong look. Add a liberal sprinkling of Nevada Lanterns and Mya Tea Light Holders, all with silver trim, the Adele Table Lamp and a blend of clear Krosno White Wine Glasses with Pulsar Purple Rock Tumblers.
merci magazine 73
From richly textured chairs and sumptuous throws to glass coffee tables and crys-
tal glassware, everything is spells high-end sophistication. Balance the blackness
of the Draper Three-Seat Velvet sofa and Noir Cowhide stool with light touches,
such as the mirrored glass Noir Coffee Table, Juliette Console and Large Armillary
Globe. Wine-coloured Edith Velvet Cushions and an arrangement of Silk Magnolia
Flowers work well in the living room. A bold piece of art is a must to complete this
look and there is an eclectic range of limited-edition artwork to choose from this
season. The Ultra-cool Skull Neon Sign in the living area and the Silver Leaf Moon
series in the dinning room reflect different aspects of the Back to Black theme.
www.Indigo-living.com
74 merci magazine
MIAMIWORLDCENTER
PHOTO COURTESY OF PARAMOUNT
merci magazine 75
PARAMOUNT Miami Worldcenter, one of the largest mixed-use projects in the USA is poised to
transform the City of Miami. Launched at the Beijing Luxury Properties Showcase on 24th April
2014, the Miami skyline will soon have a soaring, 60-story condominium tower rising from its
base. The 706-foot high-rise will offer a dramatic window to America’s “City of the Future.”
The highly-anticipated PARAMOUNT Miami Worldcenter residential tower is set to tower above
retail giants Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s in the heart of downtown Miami’s Miami Worldcenter,
which at nearly 30 acres rivals New York’s mega-project, Hudson Yards. The announcement comes
on the heels of a recent cover-story by Departures magazine, which named Miami as “America’s
City of the Future.”
76 merci magazine
the first and only residential tower currently for sale within the expansive Miami Worldcenter site -- will be just an elevator ride
away from the vibrant blend of retail, restaurants, office space, lush parks, galleries and nightlife planned for the cosmopolitan
mixed-use development. PARAMOUNT Miami Worldcenter is being developed by Daniel Kodsi -- creator of PARAMOUNT Bay and
PARAMOUNT Fort Lauderdale Beach -- along with Miami Worldcenter master developers Art Falcone and Nitin Motwani. The
tower’s architectural designs are a collaboration between renowned architect Elkus Manfredi and PARAMOUNT’s team of Miami-
based designers.
“For two years we traveled to the world’s most dynamic metropolises, like Berlin, Paris, Dubai, Tokyo and Singapore - both modern
and ancient - to frame our vision for the future of Miami’s downtown, and to help put into place our dream for a true ‘city within
a city,’” said Miami Worldcenter Managing Principal and project visionary Art Falcone, who is also the CEO of Encore Fund. “This
project will change and undeniably revolutionize the face of Miami, offering an unmatched destination to live, work and play in
the heart of Miami’s urban core,” added Nitin Motwani, Miami Worldcenter Managing Principal.
Miami - America’s City of the FutureAccording to The Wealth report 2015, Miami keeps track of which cities are of most importance to the
world’s wealthies people today. It ranks cities based on four factors: Economic Activity, Quaity of Life, Knowledge & Influence and Political Power as well as taking into account the number of these wealthiest
individuals who call each city home.
merci magazine 77
78 merci magazine
Located directly across from Biscayne Bay and flanked by cul-
tural landmarks, such as the American Airlines Arena, Adrienne
Arsht Center and the Pérez Art Museum Miami, PARAMOUNT
Miami Worldcenter will be within walking distance of the new
Marriott Marquis World Convention Center Hotel and All Aboard
Florida’s Grand Central Station, and just minutes from Miami In-
ternational Airport and the Beaches.
“Nowhere in the world will residents have such a concen-
trated volume of amenities, public transportation options
and landmark entertainment venues directly within a few
blocks of their doorsteps,” said Kodsi. “Miami Worldcenter
and PARAMOUNT Miami Worldcenter’s location will offer
unparalleled access to professional sporting events, con-
certs, ballets, museum tours and more – all within a short
walkable radius. The features and accessibility of this pro-
ject are impossible to replicate anywhere else across
the globe.”
Comprising 470 city and bay-view residences, PARA-
MOUNT Miami Worldcenter will be adorned with a
large amenity deck, cascading gardens and infinity pools
and crowned with a sleek four-story rooftop deck, de-
signed to mirror the architectural accents of an Italian
yacht. Created with end users in-mind, the expansive
residences will range in size from 1,300 to 2,300 square
feet, with prices starting at $700 per square foot. The
project is scheduled to break ground in the second quar-
ter of 2015 with occupancy slated for the third quarter
of 2018.
http://miamiworldcenter.com
merci magazine 79
80 merci magazine
AIA HONG KONG HONORS & AWARDS 2015
THE AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF ARCHITECTS
HONG KONG CHAPTER
Each year, AIA Hong Kong recognizes design excellence in architecture, interior architecture, urban design, un-built
projects and sustainable design for works completed by AIA member architects in Hong Kong, China and the Asia
Pacific Region. For the 2015 Honors & Awards Program, eight projects have been selected as winners
merci magazine 81
HISTORIC BACKGROUND
St. Andrew’s Church was built over a century ago, in 1906, when Kowloon was still rural, and
the church served as a boundary marker of the extent of occupied development. G.R. Sayer
then described in a picturesque essay: “Beyond St. Andrew’s Church… there are few, if any,
buildings. The Nathan Road is almost entirely undeveloped, and broad flats [of land] are given
over to watercress growers”. Today, bustling Nathan Road is called the “Golden Mile” of com-
mercial activity in Kowloon, and St. Andrew’s Church offers a spiritual oasis amidst its dense
urban surroundings. This historic site is now appreciated as a living heritage from which to
glorify and serve God in the local community and beyond.
Over the past decade, a series of building restoration and interior renovation works have been
seamlessly completed, culminating in a UNESCO Asia Pacific Award for Cultural Conservation in
2006. However, at the same time, severe space shortages were impacting the capacity of this
thriving church to grow in essential ways: worship space for a growing congregation, city out-
reach ministry programs, classrooms for youth and children, prayer and meeting rooms, etc.
DESIGN PROPOSAL
On this heritage-listed site, there were no obvious solutions: historic buildings are protected
by the Antiquities and Monuments Office, while the narrow existing driveway to an elevated
site restricts emergency vehicle access beyond the street frontage. Besides, any new structure
could well be viewed as disrupting the heritage outlook of the entire compound.
Thus, this major extension to St. Andrew’s Church was proposed as a largely underground
building, below an existing front courtyard to be restored with replanted trees and landscap-
ing on a new roof garden. The new structure of 2,875 sq.m. comprises an 800-seat auditorium
with baptismal pool, vestry and entrance on Nathan Road. The subterranean amphitheatre
is skylighted above the altar/stage as well as along the semi-circular perimeter walls to allow
natural light to penetrate throughout.
The lower level is devoted to youth and childrens ministry, with classrooms and meeting rooms
arranged around a central, stepped conversation pit, which doubles as a smaller worship and
performing space for youth fellowship. The new extension is connected to the historic church
building by stairways to the roof garden as well as a lift for disabled access.
A major benefit of this underground building is the ability to introduce a contemporary ad-
dition that is still visually compatible with its heritage site, by preserving and enhancing the
original buildings and grounds. Existing retaining wall stones were restored and reused at the
new entrance facade to extend its heritage presence on Nathan Road. In addition, the thermal
mass of the landscaped green roof lowers overall energy consumption.
Honor Award for Architecture
Nelson Chen Architects Ltd.
St. Andrew’s Church Life Centre, Hong Kong
http://www.nca.com.hk
82 merci magazine
Merit Awards for Interior
Architecture:
Millennium Mitsui Garden Hotel, Tokyo
CL3 Architects Ltd.
http://cl3.com/hotels/millennium-mitsui-garden-hotel-tokyo/
Life in the heart of Tokyo provides many conveniences, but it can be very hectic at the same time.
The hotel aspired to create a private garden in the heart of the city. A contemporary garden offering a tranquil and relaxing atmosphere with the first step inside, whilst retaining the style and elegance expected in a fashionable metropolis.
Life a Japanese Zen garden, the design approach is ‘Asian Minimalism’, with attention to the stimula-tion of the senses using: lighting, touch, texture, comfort, art, the environment, which have been carefully considered in the development of the design. A landscape stair connects the lobby to the restaurant in the lower ground level, where a relaxed library/ greenhouse atmosphere creates a com-fortable dining experience in the city.
The typical guestroom area is only 200sq.ft. but is designed for every comfort, with full amenities, including a four piece bathroom and independent toilet cubicle. Large mural artworks and special carpet designs, incorporating the private garden theme, complete the overall hotel concept in the guestrooms.
merci magazine 83
Merit Awards for Interior
Architecture:
Arvato Shanghai Headquarters
M Moser Associates Ltd.
http://www.mmoser.com/news/m-moser-news/2015/industrial-to-office-transforma-tion-by-m-moser-earns-aia-hk-award/
Repurposing a light industrial loft building led to the creation of the new Shanghai headquarters of arvato, a leading international provider of digital marketing, customer relationship management, supply chain management, financial and IT services.The project brings arvato’s corporate, design, customer and client service functions under one roof, while providing staff with a warm, modern and vibrant work environment conducive to team-building and collaboration. From concept design through design development, engineering and fit-out, all elements of the project process were inte-grated under a single team for a streamlined, low-risk delivery. The project team maximised re-use of the building’s existing structural and industrial elements to minimise material waste, cost and time while retaining hints of its original character. The entirely new interior spaces developed within this sustainable framework were designed to feel clean, natural and youthful.
Starting with the main entrance, the entire building was transformed into a series of large, flexible open working environments. These are interspersed with atriums, private meeting spaces, and small ‘phone booth’ rooms which function as idea-sharing and client-facing areas.
Located centrally within the workspace is a distinctive open ‘Idea Hub’. The collaborative ‘nerve cen-tre’ of the building, it is both where all major circulation routes converge, and where creativity is fostered with the aid of an integrated AV system and ‘chalkboards’.
84 merci magazine
Merit Award for Unbuilt Project:
Guiyang Nanming Riverfront Cultural CBD
Master Plan, Guizhou
Skidmore, Owings & Merrill LLP
http://www.som.com/news/guiyang_nanming_riverfront_cultural_cbd_mas-ter_plan_project_wins_aia_hong_kong_
merit_award
The Nanming Riverfront Cultural CBD Master Plan suggests a path forward for Guiyang based on re-newal of its historic urban core, an 800-hectare district along the banks of the Nanming River. It advo-cates for extensive networks of natural and man-made open spaces, allowing landscape to become the primary driver of city form in 54 hectares of new parks. It focuses infrastructure investment on transit, and plans for adjacent development at densities far exceeding common practice today — including up to 12 million square meters of new floor area. It knits together existing city assets and culture along the Nanming River to create a bold new identity to position Guiyang as the cultural gateway to Western China. And it approaches every scale of development through the lens of sustainability and resiliency, including provision of district-level renewable energy, water reduction, high-performance landscapes, and transportation networks designed to reduce carbon impact by up to 40%.
The plan can become a model for Western Chinese cities to implement, at the micro-scale, the macro-level government imperative to develop China’s vast inland areas, and to do so in a manner responsible to both the heritage and future of the country.
merci magazine 85
Merit Award for Urban Design & Sustainable Design
Award:
Perkins Eastman Skidmore, Owings & Merrill LLP
http://www.perkinseastman.com/project_3406363_huishan_
north_bund
Huishan North Bund, a 255,000 m2 mixed-use development, enjoys “front row seats” facing Shanghai’s Pudong skyline and the bustling Huangpu River. After 150+ years when this historic stretch of riverfront was occupied by maritime uses, this once sequestered site has become Shanghai’s next great place—reu-niting citizens with the waterfront by means of a public plaza, esplanade, and marina serving as the project’s centerpiece and creating a one-of-a-kind brand.
Comprising six office buildings, a shipping exchange, a SOHO tower, and a retail building with shopping concourse—all framing the marina and plaza–the archi-tecture of varied expressions establishes individual corporate identities. Dif-fering curtainwall façades of aluminum, stainless steel, granite, terracotta, and high performance glazing enable controlled absorption of sunlight and of the marina’s reflected light. All buildings include accessible green roofs, rainwater harvesting, ice storage, greywater recycling, water-conserving fixtures, oper-able windows, raised floor, and a centralized Building Automation System. These features, together with convenient access to multiple modes of transit (ferry, two subway lines, bus), form a comprehensive sustainability program. The de-velopment has received LEED, BREEAM, and China’s Green Building Assessment Standard certifications. At the sky-lit retail concourse level, each building offers employee amenities including fitness center, cafeteria, conference center, day care, and convenient shopping with direct connections to public transit and ad-jacent developments.
Notably, the 12,000 m2 marina is the District Energy System’s source for heat rejection and a storm water reservoir. The marina also creates a beneficial micro-climate for the surrounding plaza through evaporative cooling in warm months.
86 merci magazine
Gift GuideGRACE LEO
merci magazine 87
Renowned for her singular ‘East Meets West’ designs and lifestyle concepts, each product’s look, feel
and style has been inspired by what transformed Grace’s ‘Boutique Hotels’ into world-class destina-
tions of such distinctive beauty and elegance. Those brands include: Apto, Dibbern, Fradkof, Garnier-
Thiebaut, L’Objet, Médard de Noblat, Orrefors, Siècle, Vittorio Martini and Victoria de Talhora. Inter-
active and informative, guests can create their own ‘A Touch of Grace’ profile with many advantages,
including ‘order history’ and ‘wish list’ features. And it doesn’t stop there – the site also benefits from
an ‘Ask Grace’ section, for further product queries or style advice.
Inspired by Europe’s chic cosmopolitan cities – and some of their design-dazzling districts – the prod-
uct ranges are also presented in ‘curated ensembles’. These ensembles showcase the perfectly paired
plates, glasses, table accessories and linens to give consumers the confidence – and expert style guid-
ance – to mix and match:
▪ London Mayfair – an ode to the glamorous apartments, manicured gardens and exquisite shops of
London’s iconic neighbourhood, the style of this collection epitomises understated British elegance.
▪ Paris Rive Gauche – embodying the romance and beauty of Paris at its finest, it echoes the
glittering lights of the Rive Gauche and the spirit of Parisian luxury.
▪ Florence Ponte Vecchio – personifying the rich cultural heritage of Florence where everyday sights
and objects are artworks in themselves; and where artisans produce pieces with the unparalleled
combination of beauty and craftsmanship.
▪ French Riviera – a collection that reflects the coastal allure of sandy beaches, warm breezes,
pastel colours and charming vistas … as if you are immersed in an impressionist painting of The Côte
D’Azure at sunset.
▪ Grace’s Inspiration – an ever-changing range of ad hoc pieces that enchant and enrich with their rare
beauty, precision perfection, and imaginative creativity.
Born and raised in Hong Kong to a family of hoteliers,
Grace Leo attended Stanford and Cornell Universi-
ties before establishing herself as a European design
and lifestyle expert. Grace Leo International, her first
independent venture, is the platform from which she
became a pioneer of the ‘Boutique Hotel’ movement.
Grace Leo is one of those rare individuals whose in-
nate sense of style, taste and business acumen are the
direct consequence of her combined Chinese heritage
and true sense of European ‘Savoir-Faire’.
88 merci magazine
merci magazine 89
Vivid Living (www.vividliving.com) is an interior design / real estate consultan-
cy and a property developer in Hong Kong focusing on creating healthy living
spaces. Vivid’s Founder Henning Voss believes that personal well-being and
sustainability should be integral components of every living space. With its
‘Healthy Home & Healthy Office Blueprint’ Vivid brings a focus on health to
every aspect of your apartment, house or workplace, creating spaces that op-
timize well-being and facilitate the healthiest lifestyle possible. Vivid Living’s
medical evidence based concept combines professional air and water purifica-
tion technologies, sustainable and green building materials, mood lighting and
home automation systems, ergonomic and biophilic design as well as tools to
optimize nutrition and physical fitness.
In Vivid Living Henning combines his interest and experience in real estate with
his passion for health and wellness and takes the vision of a sustainable home
one step further by transforming living spaces into conduits to well-being.
Henning has over ten years experience as a Regional Director for a multina-
tional in Asia, and holds an MSc in East Asian Business. As a Managing Partner
of Provest Holidings (www.provestholdings.com) he has been engaged in real
estate investments in Hong Kong and other Asian markets since 2007. He is
currently studying to become a Building Biology Consultant. In our interview at
the Vivid Living show flat in Sheung Wan, Henning will tell us more about Vivid
Living and his vision for healthy living.
Text by: Peter Leung | Photo by: Jenny Ho
Spirit ofSustainability
90 merci magazine
merci magazine 91
HOME DECORVivid Living
It’s no wonder how the word “sustainability” has grown from a niche
term once used solely by an exclusive and small group of tree-hugging
hippies and ivory-tower academics into a mainstay of our modern cul-
ture’s lexicon. With 7 billion people on the planet, Earth’s resources are
under immense pressure. We are living in a world where temperatures
are rising, water is becoming more scarce, energy sources are increas-
ingly exposed to political risks, and food supplies more uncertain. With
“sustainability” being increasingly thrown around in casual conversa-
tion, we should ask ourselves what exactly does it mean to live sus-
tainability—what is sustainable living? While everyone defines it a little
differently, at its heart, it is a lifestyle that attempts to reduce individu-
als’ use of Earth’s natural resources. More broadly speaking, the con-
cept of environmental sustainability has expanded to include not just
respect for the planet, but also respect for ourselves: our relationships,
our bodies through nutrition and our spirit. “Sustainability” has grown
into a holistic term used to represent living our lives as best as possible.
Can you define for us what “healthy living” means to you?
It includes a lot of different things…it encompasses the concepts of
primary foods and so called secondary foods. Secondary foods are the
vegetables, proteins and other foods that we eat to create energy in
our bodies. It provides nutrients for our bodies, but doesn’t necessarily
give us the joy or fulfillment that primary foods provide. Primary foods
are all those things that nourish us beyond the plate—our relationships,
careers, education, physical activity, and spirituality. and also our living
environment. We spend up to 90% of our time indoors so naturally our
living environment has a big impact on our health and well-being.
In your own words, what is Vivid Living’s ultimate goal?
We want to make HK and ideally Asia, healthier and encourage devel-
opers to believe that health and real estate can go hand-in-hand that
health and real estate can go hand-in-hand.” Eco-living doesn’t neces-
sarily need to look like tree houses.
92 merci magazine
merci magazine 93
HOME DECORVivid Living
94 merci magazine
How was the concept of Vivid Living conceived?
I’m a bit of a health-geek, I try to be, even though as a German,
I enjoy my beer. I was always interested in my health and I love
real estate and interior design so I wanted to bring my three
passions together but I always thought ‘why do we only design
spaces that are good for just the environment? Why don’t we
go a step further and design spaces that are good for the people
that live in them?’ and that’s how the concept for Vivid Living
came about.
The idea for vivid living actually started as a serviced-apartment
concept. Most serviced apartments in Hong Kong sell an aspi-
rational lifestyle, but there’s nothing that really offers healthy
living. This is still our end goal—for Vivid Living to provide holis-
tic health services from start to finish. For example, we thought
about offering residents a nutritional consultation when they
first move in. On the ground floor, we’d have an organic restau-
rant offering customized lunchboxes that residents can pick up
on their way to work. Also, a personal trainer would arrive in the
mornings for cross training with residents…these are all ideas
that we played around with.
merci magazine 95
HOME DECORVivid Living
Vivid Living renovations are carried out using sustainable and green building materials. First off, why is using sustainable materi-
als important? Secondly, what types of materials do you use?
Aside from the fact that using sustainable materials has its obvious benefits to the environment (preserving natural resources), it’s
important to put non-polluting materials into your home to enhance health. When thinking about building a healthy indoor living
environment, the first point to look at is the materials that go into a renovation. We try to up-cycle and recycle materials that are
found in a space, then we look at flooring, which is a big issue. We try to utilize FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) certified woods
sourced within a 500-mile radius. In addition, we use kitchen countertops that have a high recycled content since natural stone can
off-gas radon, which is a carcinogen (cancer causing agent). As far as glues and adhesives—which a lot of contractors do not look
out for—we only go for non/low VOC-emitting (volatile organic compounds) adhesives. Paint, flooring and cabinetry are the main
things that bring pollutants and carcinogens into your home or office. In order to save energy and create Circadian mood lighting,
we always use LED lights.
How would you describe Vivid Living’s “design aesthetic”, if there is one?
What we try to achieve is to bring nature into the home. Why? There is a design philosophy called biophilic design, which is based
on biophilia, which is humans’ love and association with nature. For example, people pay more for a view of the park or a sea-view
but obviously not all home owners in Hong Kong have this luxury so what we try to do is to bring in shapes and forms found in
nature into the home. There are a number of studies that show people recovering in hospital rooms—one group looking at a plain
concrete wall the other group looking at a park. Recovery times were faster and less pain-killers were given to the group of patients
with a park view. Again, we don’t have control of our outside environment but we have control over our indoor space, so bring
plants into the home and use hydroponic planters—its pleasing to the eye and relaxing.
96 merci magazine
merci magazine 97
HOME DECORVivid Living
Vivid Living “designs offices and homes in a way that ‘nudges’ occupants to-
wards a healthier lifestyle by employing choice architecture”—how does the
design of a living or working space catalyze people toward being more healthy
in other areas of their lives? For example, in their fitness routines or in their
eating habits or even in their relationships?
I’m a big supporter of ‘choice architecture’, which means you design spaces in
a way that makes it easy for people to develop and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Three aspects of choice architecture are that it has to be attainable, relevant
and easy to use.” For example, in the kitchen, you would make it easy for people
to pick up healthy habits by implementing hydroponic planters to grow fresh
greens (herbs for example) or build in accessible juicing stations. For the Office
environment, placing signs next to the stairs reminding workers they can burn X
number of calories using the stairs as opposed to taking the lift is another pos-
sibility, as well as inspecting the inside contents of office pantries to ensure that
natural juices are offered instead of fizzy drinks.
98 merci magazine
Tell us about your process of renovating an old space with a “healthy blueprint”—if I’m a client first coming to you to help redesign my space, what is the next step?
So just for clarification, Vivid Living is a property developer and
consultant as opposed to an interior design company, although
we do work with different interior designers. Our work starts
with a consultation—‘what do you want to achieve with the
space we are renovating? What kind of lifestyle do you want to
achieve (ie: working out more).’ It’s a thorough first consulta-
tion, which includes a series of survey questions also focusing
on health issues. Afterwards, we talk to our interior designers
and contractors to implement our “Healthy Home or Office Blue-
print” in your living space.
merci magazine 99
HOME DECORVivid Living
100 merci magazine
HOME DECORVivid Living
merci magazine 101
For the ‘average’ person—without access to professional services and expertise such as Vivid Living—what are the top 3 things that anyone can do to make their living space more healthy?
First off, air purifiers are important—there are companies in Hong Kong that offer free air qual-
ity tests. I’d recommend that, although I wouldn’t necessarily recommend buying the actual air
purifier the company offers, as they can be biased. People can download white papers off of our
website to learn which are the best air purifiers…and as a disclosure, we have no financial inter-
est in which brand people pick (http://www.vividliving.com.hk/learning-center/). Secondly, the
same goes for water filters, which are a must for buildings older than 1995 because the piping
before that year may contain lead. The water in Hong Kong is fine, it’s really the piping that can
be problematic. Thirdly, I’d consider a stand up desk, for people that work from home - trust me,
it’ll change your life! Other recommendations include retrofitting a pull up bar in your home
(perhaps above a doorway) to encourage exercise, throwing out your microwave and replacing it
with a steam oven instead, buying a good blender (which is great for guys who don’t like to clean
much) and bringing in air-purifying plants into your home. Lastly, if you renovate, using VOC-free
paint and chipping off the old paint first is important. Readers may also be interested in Hong
Kong Recycles, which is a great company that offers convenient door-to-door pick up of recyclable
materials (plastics, paper, metals). They employ marginalized populations in Hong Kong and pay
them competitive market wages (http://www.hkrecycles.com/about.html).
enquires: http://www.vividliving.com/learning-center/”
102 merci magazine
merci magazine 103
Standing on the historic Street, a Grade I historic place
graded by Antiquities Advisory Board of Hong Kong, The
Pottinger Hong Kong is just a 5 minutes’ walk from Cen-
tral MTR Station. The Hotel makes an ideal starting point to
explore the unique ‘firsts’ of Hong Kong. It embraces pio-
neering spirits; the art pieces and select decorative acces-
sories in the hotel help interpret the history of Hong Kong
and Central, they intrigue guests to venture out to search
for the romance and the spirit of Hong Kong.
Located at the heart of Hong Kong with main entrance at21 Stanley Street, Central.
104 merci magazine
merci magazine 105
With its diverse dining choices and a com-
forting ambience that highlights a sense of
classic elegance, the hotel is set to elevate
the guest experience to new heights. The
refined atmosphere has been created un-
der the consultancy of Australian interior
designer Suzy Annetta, founder of Studio
Annetta and a specialist in hospitality pro-
jects. Annetta is highly regarded for her
use of colour and for interiors character-
ised by refined surfaces and beautiful ma-
terials. Realised from her highly developed
artistic sense and holistic understanding of
design, The Pottinger Hong Kong exudes
the splendour of Hong Kong and offers
guests an unforgettable stay in the heart of
the city.
106 merci magazine
merci magazine 107
DECORInspiration
Lobby, The Pottinger Hong Kong
108 merci magazine
merci magazine 109
ELEGANT YET TIMELESS DESIGN
Designed by LCL Architects, the elegant dining room of
Gradini Ristorante Italiano reflects the timeless style of
the hotel. High ceilings give a sense of class within orien-
tal inspired surrounds that illustrate the historical impor-
tance of the restaurant’s location.
The centre piece of the dining room is a spectacular cop-
per Italian coffee machine, the ‘Victoria Arduino Venus’.
A special release, the machine is a limited edition com-
memorating the 100th anniversary of the prestigious
brand. With only 100 machines produced, it is as unique
and treasured as Gradini Ristorante Italiano itself.
Adjacent to the dining room is the Gradini Bar, which pro-
vides a stylish and ambient escape from the hustle and
bustle of Central Hong Kong to catch up with friends or
enjoy a pre-dinner drink. The signature Bellini Gradini
Cocktail is a sure favourite. Fresh peaches are blended
with champagne and grappa to create this romantic cock-
tail which was originally inspired by a 15th century Vene-
tian painting. With ‘Gradini’ the Italian word for steps, the
Bellini Gradini is the perfect statement drink for the Gra-
dini Bar and is a connotation of an elegant lady waiting on
stone steps.
‘Pottinger Street’, or ‘slab street’ as the locals call it for its
trademark granite slab steps, is the cultural and historic
epicentre of the city. Pottinger Street has witnessed the
development of Hong Kong into a world city, while treas-
uring and protecting its traditions and heritage.
‘The Pottinger Hong Kong and Gradini Ristorante Italiano
have been built upon the foundations of this historic area.
Through every step of our planning – from the enchant-
ing pictures of Fan Ho adorning the walls of the hotel, to
the coffee machine that symbolises the Italian roots of the
restaurant – we have been striving to create an establish-
ment that pays tribute to its heritage and the meeting of
East and West,’ says Ms Gina Tam, Hotel Manager of The
Pottinger Hong Kong.
110 merci magazine
merci magazine 111
HOME DECORHome Inspiration
112 merci magazine
merci magazine 113
Pottinger Street was named after Sir Henry Pot-
tinger, the first Governor of Hong Kong. Being the
first historic stone slab street in Hong Kong since
1840s, the street is granted Grade I historic sta-
tus by Antiquities Advisory Board of Hong Kong.
It was originally paved with stone slabs, which it
is better known as the Stone Slab Street by the
locals. To ascend or descend further along Pot-
tinger Street, intriguing scenes of distinctive
green tin hawker stalls, century-old tenement
buildings, stylish and upscale boutique stores
can be found. This heritage is emulated by the elegant décor of the
hotel which features works from world-acclaimed photographer Fan
Ho. This is the first time Mr Ho, now 83 years old, has collaborated
with a hotel and his pictures tell the story of Central Hong Kong over
the ages.
www.thepottinger.com
Pottinger Suite living room
114 merci magazine
merci magazine 115
JazzLanson Place Hotel, Hong Kong combines ele-
gance, style and convenience in equal measure.
The boutique hotel is tucked discreetly away in
Hong Kong’s thriving Causeway Bay entertain-
ment and shopping hub. Its 194 rooms and pent-
house suites, each with a kitchenette, demon-
strate refined luxury accommodation along with
the exclusivity and comfort of a private home. As
the first member of the Small Luxury Hotels of
the WorldTM in Hong Kong, the hotel has been
delighting guests with award-winning service and
comprehensive facilities in the heart of the city
for over a decade.
at Lanson PlaceBy peggy luiPhoto courtesy of Lanson Place Hotel
116 merci magazine
Lanson Place HOtel is celebrating its
10th anniversary with the release of a new CD “Jazz at Lanson
Place”.
To celebrate this important milestone, the hotel brought to-
gether a group of talented young local jazz artists to play at
the hotel’s stylish 133 Lounge to record the CD. The group will
return to the hotel for a special live performance at the an-
niversary celebration party. To supplement the cool jazz vibe,
a special vintage wine from 2005 and a photo exhibition of
Causeway Bay in the 1950s will also be featured at the party.
Ian Brewis, General Manager of Lanson Place Hotel said, “We
have tremendous pleasure in presenting through this mean-
ingful recording project various groups of local young talents
in their early twenties to thirties. They are a group of young
and passionate musicians who have received excellent train-
ing, both from local and abroad, and who have a lot of enthu-
siasm in committing their lives and career to music. We hope
that this is a first step in inviting others to join in creating an
environment which would foster the growth of our promising
home breed talents.”
A new unique concept called Club 133 will also be launched
as part of the anniversary celebrations. The Club is a by-invi-
tation-only offer to selected guests to enjoy the exclusive 133
Lounge at their leisure and enjoy what is surely one of the best
kept secrets in Causeway Bay. The lounge has always been one
of the many features of the hotel that guest have said they love
most.
merci magazine 117
most.
118 merci magazine
merci magazine 119
Glide up over Hong Kong and view nearby Victoria Park, rooms designed to evoke a
sense of calm are created with high quality fabrics and luxurious materials, rendered
in muted tones with the occasional pop of jewel colour. Rare lithographic prints and
etchings hang from the walls and tasteful modern décor is complimented with 20th
century antiques. Pale wood floors, mirrored surfaces and plush furnishings through-
out provide the residence an ambient, restful mood.
For more information, please visit hongkong.lansonplace.com/.
120 merci magazine
Cupboards: Casamanara custom design VintageLight fitting:: VintageChair: HAYFlooring: Siberian wood floor
merci magazine 121
An international leader in renovation in hospitality design, Hirsch Bedner Associates (HBA) has successfully upgraded properties all around the world. Ranging from sensitive res-toration of historic buildings through to commercial renova-tion to maintain relevance, projects have boosted proper-ties’ currency, helping hotels better meet the requirements of travellers today. Driven by top hoteliers and increasingly discerning guests, Asia’s hospitality industry continues its steady expansion. Maintaining its position at the head of this unprecedented growth is China: from first-, second- to third-tier cities, nev-er before has the market been so varied, nor so dynamic. In order to stay ahead of the curve, blue chip and boutique brands alike must ensure they match and exceed not only competitors’ standards, but more importantly, guests’ ex-pectations. One of HBA’s strengths, general commercial renovation is a strategy employed by hoteliers for multiple reasons. Firstly, trends in travel and tourism are notoriously fast-paced: by refreshing a hotel’s ambience and look, properties can at-tract both new and repeat business. Second, by offering guests the very latest in facilities and furnishings, a hotel may elevate its ranking for increased profit expectations. Fi-nally, even low-level wear and tear from sustained use can quickly age hotels and resorts. In order to maintain a prop-erty’s aesthetic and material quality, it is recommended that hotels of 4-years or older undergo partial renovation. Properties open for eight years or more call for full-scale renovation. Such was the case for the Singapore Marriott Hotel. Opened in 1995, a prime location on Orchard Road made the prop-erty a popular choice for corporate events. To better cater to staying guests, in 2012 the hospitality group commis-sioned HBA to overhaul the hotel’s 393 bedrooms, lobby and dining options.
The project saw HBA work closely with Marriott to better un-derstand their clients’ needs, and the exacting expectations of travellers today. After analysing the hotel’s processes and requirements, HBA presented the property with detailed plans for a comprehensive overhaul. The results included er-gonomic furniture and enhanced entertainment facilities in all guest rooms, as well as a warm and welcoming lobby area. Similarly, in 2013 after a period of 15 years, Hong Kong’s Roy-al Plaza Hotel approached HBA for a design overhaul. Once imposing and dark, in upgrading existing interiors, as well as technology updates such as LED lighting and enhanced sound systems, the property now exudes a contemporary and youthful ambience. Located in Mong kok district, the hotel’s two-phase renovation extended to a new junior ball-room and popular cocktail bar, Lion Rock. HBA also boasts extensive experience in historic renovation and preservation. Projects across a range of properties inter-nationally have cemented the firm’s reputation for a sensitive approach that balances ethical responsibility with economic viability. A highly specialist design discipline, the aim of this type of renovation is to reveal and revive the beauty and so-cietal significance of historic buildings. Whether historical or architectural, the cultural consequence of such hotels calls for a considered approach in rendering their interiors fit for contemporary use. In 2007, HBA began an extensive renovation and refurbish-ment of Shanghai’s legendary Peace Hotel. With a legacy stretching all the way back to 1929, during its heyday, the Ca-thay Hotel as it was then known counted politicians, financi-ers, entrepreneurs and celebrities amongst its distinguished guests. Drawn by the glamour of Shanghai and the splendor of the renowned property - it boasted shimmering floors of Italian marble, glass sculptures by Lalique, and perhaps the best jazz in all of China - it was known as the “No. 1 Mansion in the Far East.”
Historical RestorationPRODUCTION BY PEGGY LUI
PHOTO COURTESY OF HBA
122 merci magazine
merci magazine 123
Such decadence jarred with China’s subsequent political over-haul, and for a period of four years from 1952 the building be-came the offices of the Municipal Finance Committee. In 1956, local government restored its original function, renaming the property Peace Hotel. A far cry from its early elegance, it was a shadow of its former self. A takeover by the Fairmont hotel group spelled a new chap-ter for the Shanghai icon. Over a period of three-years, HBA worked with historians and restoration experts to uncover the property’s long-hidden beauty, all the while modernizing sys-tems such as wiring, plumbing and connectivity for a contem-porary audience. The results are nothing short of spectacular: alongside 270 ultra-modern guest rooms are features such as an original sprung timber dance floor, and newly revealed oc-tagonal glass rotunda.
Such projects resonate beyond interiors alone, and rouse civic pride for a place’s history and beauty. Another prized property to have been embraced by local residents and travellers alike following renovation by HBA is Shanghai Waldorf Astoria Hotel. Dating from 1910, the Baroque Revival was once home to the legendary Shanghai Club, the city’s most exclusive gentlemen’s club of its day.
Subsequent decades saw the property’s primary function switch to that of temporary home for occupying Japanese forc-es; a base for foreign sailors under the new Communist govern-ment; and during the 1990s, as the site of Shanghai’s very first KFC restaurant. After standing derelict for a period of 14 years, current lease holders, Hilton group, called on the expertise of HBA to restore the architectural gem to its former glory, and elevate the prop-erty’s amenities to the level of international luxury hotel. To that end, a brand new swimming pool and spa now sit alongside original Sicilian marble columns; ornate stained glass, painstak-ingly restored through archive photographs; and the Bund’s chicest drinking spot, Long Bar.
Be they historical icons or modern-day gems, HBA’s approach to renovation boosts guest experience, and can increase hotels’ profit expectations. Partners from planning through to execu-tion, “HBA truly are the ‘master renovators’. Over our 50 year history we have created - and renovated - some of the world’s leading properties. Our skills enable us to retain and enhance those enduring elements of quality whilst introducing fresh de-signs that reinvigorate and enhance: a masterful balancing act,” says CEO Ian Carr.
124 merci magazine
merci magazine 125
At Asia’s only boutique designer sleepover, In bed With Design-ers, a number of hotel rooms are transformed into carefully cu-rated caves of innovative products and beautiful creations. In bed With Designers, curated by buyMeDesign, connects emerg-ing visionary designers with passionate design lovers, the media, industry professionals, and buyers in a relaxed and multi-sensory business and networking environment. Visitors have the chance to engage, interact, and even get into bed with designers!
100 designers across 15 different countries
• Reaching over 5000 visitors from around the world• In collaboration with top Asian design weeks and specialized media platforms• Hosts exclusive sub-events such as buyer tours, talks, contests, cocktail parties, and the Spot Design Award
In bed With Designers, a platform where the public can cozy up to emerging designers, helps to bring buyers, the media, design lovers, and the designers closer together. The event works in tandem with our unique online services at buyMeDesign, which allow the designers and the public to connect. The event has previously occurred under major design events, such as Maison & Objet Asia, Taiwan Designers Week, Business of Design Week, demonstrating our strong presence in the Asian design ecosys-tem.
www.inbedwithdesigners.com | www.buymedesign.com
“It’s all about connections and exchanging ideas, about becoming cleverer and learning from one another. This partnership has become a strong platform to reach out to the young and rising talents and to bring creative indi-viduals together in one event.”
– Carsten Lima Asia Pacific Area Director for Design Hotels and Master of Ceremonies of In bed With Designers, Spot Design Award 2015
126 merci magazine
4 new accent plates, the Er-go! Cascade. It refreshes the collection with a subtle classic style designed by Dinah Body.
Dinah’s hand drawn design brings gentle hues and bold brush strokes in a painterly style giving the collection a sombre atmospheric feel. Blended and softened colours cascade across the plates offering a subtle addition to your tableware collection.
www.loveramics.com
splash of colour
HOME DECORHome Inspiration
merci magazine 127
128 merci magazine
HOMMAGE MILLÉSIMETwenty different professions with twenty different skill sets were required to restore the calibre.
Manufacture Roger Dubuis embodies a longstanding commitment
to safeguarding and restoring examples of the inest watchmaking
traditions, while consistently renewing and re-energising this proud
horological heritage.
To mark its 20th anniversary, the only watchmaking Manufacture
to be 100% Poinçon de Genève certiied is re-launching a unique
restoration project entirely dedicated to its Hommage collection:
Millésime. As the name hints, it will mark each year with a special
“vintage” in the shape of just one creation embodying a wealth of
restoration work.
When restoration becomes a vocationThese models will be available exclusively from Roger Dubuis bou-
tiques and systematically related to boutique openings representing
milestone events in the life of the Manufacture’s distribution net-
work. Within this signiicant undertaking, a series of antique move-
ment blanks will be restored using ancestral crafts and upgraded to
meet 21st century Poinçon de Genève speciications as part of an ex-
ceptional series of limited editions. Each will incorporate a perpetual
calendar, either alone or accompanied by one or more of the other
three most sophisticated horological complications.
merci magazine 129
HOMMAGE MILLÉSIMECase: Ø 60mm, pink gold Mr Roger Dubuis’ signature hand engraved on the case-back.
Thickness: 22 mm
Dial: Sapphire crystal. Pink gold counters decorated with guilloché inishes. Lapis lazuli moon phases with pink gold moon. Retrograde date at 12 o’clock. Small seconds at 3 o’clock. Retrograde days of the week at 6 o’clock. Months and years at 9 o’clock.
Strap: Pink gold chain.
Clasp: Pink gold buckle.
Calibre: Mechanical hand-winding movement, RD181.
Production: 1 piece for the opening of the Geneva boutique.
Certiication: Poinçon de Genève.
http://www.rogerdubuis.com
Symbolically destined for the new Roger Dubuis Geneva bou-tique that will open in July 2015, the irst Millésime based on this stock of movement blanks is the RD181 calibre, a late 19th/early 20th century ébauche hunted down by Mr Roger Dubuis himself from antique watchmaking and initially com-prising a minute repeater, a perpetual calendar and a chrono-graph.
Presented by the Maison in 2015 in honour of its founder, this 60 mm-diameter pocket watch is a cherished one-of-a-kind creation whose calibre is engraved with the signature of Mr Roger Dubuis. The owner will be able to personalise the pocket-watch chain by replacing various links with a series of 5N pink gold plaques that may be engraved with messages. An oficer-type back cover is designed to bear a signature and personalised inscription at the client’s discretion. In the course of two full years of development, the RD181 model called for 1,950 hours of work including 700hours of restoration on the calibre alone.
During the restoration process, the perpetual calendar was modiied to host two retrograde displays, thereby evoking the irst perpetual calendar models developed and produced by the Manufacture Roger Dubuis.The RD181 – irst in line, irst in class of a new generation.
130 merci magazine
The Free spirit ofThe French Jewely
Tribute to the first Dinh Van’s pieces, the jeweler expertise con-tinces with these new pieces for the 50th birthday, yellow gold finesness marries lapes lazuli’s intensity, dihn van’s favourite stone.
A dinh van creation stands out and may be distin-guished from a thousand others. Contemporary and timeless, it offers its pure and simple shapes to women, men and children. The entire dimen-sion of these sensual, essential pieces of jewelry is revealed as they become one with those who wear it. Some universal symbols, issued from the optimistic observation of its time, have made the success of the brand: dinh van Menottes, Cible, Maillon, Seventies and Chinese Pi.
http://www.dinhvan.com
At the start of the 1960’s, prompted by his intuition, Jean Dinh Van left Cartier and turned his attention to contemporary design, adver-tising and the birth of ready-to-wear. He set up his own business, the Place Gaillon, near place Vendôme in 1960. After designing the two-pearl ring for Pierre Cardin in 1967, he was chosen as one of the four top French jewellers and exhibited in Montreal.
Thanks to this first step on the American continent, he started col-laborating with Cartier in New York. The designs created were signed “Cartier dinh van”. After a couple of years, distribution had spread to the whole North America. At the end of the sixties, Jean Dinh Van decided jewelry might leave the traditional Vendôme place. His crea-tions were distributed at the Publicis Drugstore, the mythical place that proposed to sell “luxury for everyone”.
Dinh van’s creations are always inspired by an accurate observation of the world and by everyday objects. Since the beginning, dinh van designs have included pieces with a sophisticated sense of humor.
The “handcuffs” clasp was born out of a key-ring in 1976. Always look-ing for simple, easy-to-wear jewellery, Jean Dinh Van was flirting with gadgets and created the “handcuff key-ring”, based on the principle of neatly separating a set of keys. He then managed to transform this happy idea into a great success, because he turned this claps into a whole new piece of jewellery which is still a “best-seller”.
merci magazine 131
By Peggy LuiPhoto Courtesy of Harbour City VIC Club
On November 12, 2015, Harbour City VIC Club and Merci Magazine
have first joined forces to celebrate an exclusive journey of artisans
and craftsmanship for professionals and the distinguished gentlemen.
HARBOUR CITY VIC CLUBPRESENTS:
THE GENTLEMEN’S ODYSSEY
www.harbourcity.com.hk/vicclub
132 merci magazine
MOYNAT
ÉPURE
THE GENTLEMEN’S TONIC
IWC CORTHAY
merci magazine 133 CORTHAY BENJAMIN & BLUM
CANALI
THE GLENLIVET
HARBOUR CITY VIC CLUBpresents
THE GENTLEMEN’S ODYSSEY
Championing simple and timeless design, appreciat-
ing craftsmanship, aesthetics with bespoke elegance
created especially for the evening which took guests
on a journey through the evolution of style as show-
cased in the latest collections from Benjamin & Blum,
Canali, Corthay, Davidoff, IWC, Moynat, The Gentle-
men’s Tonic, The Glenlivet and Visual Culture.
With an exclusive cocktail party at ÉPURE that at-
tracted a number of architects, designers and execu-
tive directors in attendance.
Want to join and ride the waves of experiences?
Join Harbour City VIC Club today and transform your
shopping and dining journey into the most exclusive
and enjoyable experience. For details,
please visit:
www.harbourcity.com.hk/vicclub
134 merci magazine
merci magazine 135
MARENNES OLÉRON OYSTERS & CHABLIS WINES & THE NATURAL PERFECT PAIRING
THE URE OF
ONE GRAPE | ONE REGION |ONE OF A KIND
Marennes Oléron Oysters, with the Bourgogne Wine Board, organised an original and unexpected tasting of oysters and Chablis wines, two distinguished prod-ucts originated in France. Marennes Oléron oysters are divided into 4 types, they are: Fine de claire, Fine de claire verte, Special de claire and Pousse en claire. Located in the southwest of France, Marennes Oléron Basin is an area covering 3,000 hectares on the French Atlantic coast. This Basin belongs to one of the only two exceptional areas in France where oysters repro-duce naturally. All Marennes Oléron oysters are fin-ished, cultured and prepared in “claires”, i.e. old salt ponds between the land and the sea, out of 27 com-
munities of the area. The traditional know-how of fin-
ishing oysters in claires gives Marennes Oléron oysters
a unique, less oceanic flavour than those raised in the
open sea. They have a better capacity for retaining wa-
ter at low tide, therefore conserve better after harvest-
ing. Their shells have no exterior parasites, and they
have a smooth mother-of-pearl interior. Those grown
PRODUCTION BY PEGGY LUI
136 merci magazine
entirely in claires (called “Pousse en claire”) even have a significant growth of
flesh with a remarkable flavour and texture as salt content is reduced by the
claire itself.
FINE DE CLAIRE
For lovers of less fleshy, more juicy oysters with a refined taste
• Uniform shape• Agreeable marine odour • Less fleshy, translucent mantle Green or blue gills• Finished taste• Taste with a good salt balance Soft consistency• Short duration on the palate
FINE DE CLAIRE VERTE (GREEN)
For lovers of green oysterswith a refined taste
• Consistent shape • Sufficient quantity of flesh, translucent or white mantle, no milkiness • Green gills• Agreeable marine odour • Finished flavour, typical of the region• Balanced taste, salty, then sweet• Soft to firm consistency• Medium longevity on the pal-ate• Seasonal Product
SPECIAL DE CLAIRE
For lovers of meaty oysters with a pronounced flavour,longer on the palate
• Consistent shape • Large quantity of flesh with an ivory coloured mantle • White or green gills• Agreeable marine odour • Finished flavour of flavour oysters• A sweetness predominant over saltiness • Firm consistency • Long on the palate
POUSSE EN CLAIRE
For lovers of good fleshy oysters with a pronounced flavour, long
on the palate
• Consistent shape • Abundant flesh, ivory coloured mantle • Green or white gills• Agreeable odour of the flavour water and algae • Finished aroma and flavour, typical of the region• Predominant sweet flavour• Firm consistency, biteable• Very long on the palate• Seasonal product
FOUR TYPES OF MARENNES OLÉRON OYSTERS
merci magazine 137
NATURAL PERFECT MATCHMARENNES OLÉRON OYSTERS & CHABLIS WINES
With the roots of its vines mixing with limestone soil, enriched by oyster fossils
left by the sea some 150 million years ago, the mineral overtones and wonder-
ful freshness of Chablis wines echo the unique texture and succulent taste of
Marennes Oléron oysters, finished in old salt marshes by the Atlantic coast. To-
gether they make a natural perfect match for your palate. Chablis is in the north
of Bourgogne, located just 2 hours from Paris. Over 5,400 hectares of vineyards,
Chardonnay vines sink their roots deep into the clay-limestone soil, giving Chab-
lis wines the lively, mineral-driven, bone-dry qualities drinkers love. The specific
climate, as well as the grape variety with a precious balance in taste between
fresh and fruitful, provide Chablis wines their elegance and finesse.
About Marennes Oléron Oysters - www.huitresmarennesoleron.com
138 merci magazine
There are four Chablis “appellations” : Petit Chablis, Chablis, Chablis Premier Cru and
Chablis Grand Cru. Petit Chablis is mainly planted on plateaux in hillside vineyards. A fresh,
crisp but nonetheless delicate wine, Petit Chblis is enjoyed young, for the most part, and
is ideal for aperitifs. Chablis is the largest of the 4 appellations in terms of surface area,
both planted and limited. The age of the vines, the vintage and the style of the winemaker
equally influence the final result. Compared with Petit Chablis, this appellation stands out
with its stronger structure and its length and volume in the mouth. As for the Chablis
Premier Cru appellation, there are 40 different climats. Each Premier Cru flavours has its
own style. Some are more vibrant and mineral, with flint flavours, such as Montée de Ton-
nerre and Côte de Léchet, while others are more delicate and fruity. On the last level of
the pyramid, there is Chablis Grand Cru and its seven climats Blanchot, Bougros, les Clos,
Grenouilles, Preuses, Valmur and Vaudésir. Located just above the village of Chablis, each
climat has it own characteristics: Blanchot is floral, supple and appealing; les Clos is min-
eral and powerful with great ageing potential; Valmur is mineral, fruity and very well bal-
anced; Grenouilles is floral, fruity and rich; Vaudésir is lively, floral and rounded; Preuses is
long and noble with an exceptional ageing capacity and finally, Bougros is round, mineral
and supple
merci magazine 139
LOCATIONLocated near Auxerre in the department of Yonne, the Chablis vineyards lie along a little river aptly named the Serein (“se-rene”). Vines began to grow here during the Roman era. In the 12th century, the Cistercian monks from the abbey of Pon-tigny developed its cultivation. The AOC Chablis status was created in January 1938, thus confirming the excellent quali-ties of this dry white wime which, unlike the wines of some other regions, has held its leading place throughout its history thanks to the high quality of its raw ma-terial - the Chardonnay grape.
SOILS
No French wine-growing area has pinned its faith more firmly on the facts of geol-ogy. The main substrate is Jurassic lm-eston laid down some 150 million years ago. The rock contains deposits of tiny fossilised oyster shells which remind us that Bourgogne once lay beneath a warm ocean. Some particularly valuable Climats produce the Premier Cru.
These terroirs occupy the higher portions of the winegrowing slopes or the edge of the pla-teau. The soils are brown and derived from hard limestones, with patches of sandy silts.
Nose: White flowers (may, acacia) mixed with citrusy notes (lemon, grapefruit) over a min-eral base (gunflint). Notes of peach & other white-fleshed fruits. Characterized by the fruity aroma of white flowers and/or minerals depending on the area where it is produced, the age of the vines and vintage.
Palate: Light, lively with a well-balanced acidity.
TASTING NOTES
White, the colour is rather light - pale gold or greeny-gold. The nose is very fresh, lively and
mineral with flint, green apple, lemon, underbrush and field mushroom. Notes of line-flower,
mint and acacia occur frequently, as do aromas of liquorice and freshly-cut hay. Age depens
the colour and adds note of spice of the bouquet. On the palate, these aromas retain their
freshness for an extended period. Perky and full of juice, the attack is intense. Long and like-
able persistence leads to a smooth and serene finish. Very dry and impeccably delicate, Chab-
lis has a unique and readily-recognisbale personality.
PETIT CHABLIS APPELLATION
www.chablis-wines.com
140 merci magazine
merci magazine 141
Finland is the country with heaviest coffee drinkers in the world. According to Coffee Consumption Research done by World Resources Institute in 2011, Finnish people were consuming 12kg roasted coffee beans per person per year, followed by Norwegians’ 9.9kg per person. The world’s annual average was 1.3kg. Normally around 15 to 20g of coffee beans are used for a cup of coffee- imagine how many cups of coffee Finns are drinking every day.
You may perhaps think that the coffee culture in Finland is very mature. That is, however, not the case. Finnish peo-ple are drinking coffee more based on daily habit, with-out minding much about the details, like the origin and varieties of beans, level of roasting, or brewing methods
TIME FOR REVOLUTIONHELSINKI COFFEE FESTIVAL
By Winnie NgCourtesy of Pictures: Winnie Ng & Timo Pitkanen
142 merci magazine
In recent couple of years, coffee culture is being in transition:
Finns are starting to be more aware of the details and quality
of coffee. They are beginning to look for higher quality, starting
to drink black coffee instead of traditional milk coffee, looking
for specialty coffees. Besides, small roasters are setting up in
different cities to aid the growth of the culture recognition.
Because of all these factors, the first and largest Finnish coffee
festival was born in March 2015. The event was held on 20th to
22nd March in Helsinki, the capital of Finland, in Suvilahti Kat-
tilahalli which was a power plant in the past. More than twenty
companies including cafes, roasters and equipment manufac-
turers were brought together under the same roof to provide
a high quality and enjoyable event. Visitors got to taste more
than thirty different coffees from around the world, including
India, Indonesia, Tanzania, Ethiopia, Panama, and Brazil with
different local species and processing methods. Coffees were
served with different brewing methods, letting coffee lovers
taste the best treat of the specific coffee beans. Siphons,
hand-drip, Aeropress, French press, cold brew, and of course
Espresso were used. Baristas were giving a lot of useful in-
formation to visitors, to guide them about the styles of each
coffee bean they had, and also advise the most appropriate
way to make own coffee at home. Besides, the presence of
equipment manufactures had given consumers an easy ac-
cess to coffee accessories and equipment, providing a better
picture of correct coffee making for own enjoyment.
merci magazine 143
DestinationHELSINKI
144 merci magazine
Tag Vodka No.5 is not only quadruple distilled, but also charcoal filter-polished five times to create a benchmark spirit that can be savoured neat or as the base to a sublime libation.
NICESTCANADIAN
SAY HELLO THE
YOU WILL EVER MEET
Exclusively distributed by Thirsty Brothers Limited Website: thirtsybrothers.com.hk Email: [email protected] Tel: (852) 2156 3356
Three official coffee sector championships finals organized by
The SCAE Finnish Association: Cup Tasting, Brewers Cup and the
Barista competitions were also held in the Festival. Panu Reini-
kainen and Mikaela Wallgren, the champion of Cup Tasting and
Brewers Cup respectively will represent Finland in Gothenburg,
Sweden in mid-June for World Cup Tasters Championship and
World Brewers Cup. Meanwhile Kalle Freese, who also won the
Finnish championship in 2013, will represent Finland to compete
for the World Barista Championships in Seattle, United States in
April.
The event had created a positive impact to Finnish coffee culture
in general. There were more than 3000 visitors for the weekend,
in additional to 20th March was the day for professionals and
trade. No matter for exhibitors, organizer and visitors, they en-
joyed the festival very much and believed that everything will
be improved in the next year. The revolution is still on for coffee
enthusiastic. Hopefully the festival will be at a larger scale next
year, and attracts more passionate coffee lovers to visit!
http://www.helsinkicoffeefestival.com/
DestinationHELSINKI
merci magazine 145
Tag Vodka No.5 is not only quadruple distilled, but also charcoal filter-polished five times to create a benchmark spirit that can be savoured neat or as the base to a sublime libation.
NICESTCANADIAN
SAY HELLO THE
YOU WILL EVER MEET
Exclusively distributed by Thirsty Brothers Limited Website: thirtsybrothers.com.hk Email: [email protected] Tel: (852) 2156 3356
146 merci magazine
FISH & CHIPSCreated by UWE Opocensky
merci magazine 147
INGREDIENTS
German Waxy PotatoOrganic troutMilkAnchovyMayonnaiseCucumber Juice
CONCEPT
Potatoes are very close to the heart of a German - It is similar to the relation-ship that Asians have with rice. Pretty much every meal consists of potatoes, so to come up with a potato dish was, for me, pretty easy. And what is better than potatoes and fish, a classic combination.
CONSTRUCTION
For the pommes soufflees, the potatoes are twice fried in different oil tempera-tures to achieve the required texture and lightness. Freeze-drying, a technique developed by NASA to remove all the water from an ingredient while keeping all the nutrients, is used in this case to create the organic trout powder.
TASTING NOTES
Krug Grande Cuvee is perfect for this dish as it is so well balanced. The citrus for this dish as it is so well balaned. The citrus and acidic notes pair beautifully with the flavours of the fried potatoes and the fish, creating a wonderful balance on the palate.
KRUG AMBASSADE’S CHEF: UWE OPOCENSKYRESTAURANT: MANDARIN GRILL + BARREGION: HONG KONG
WHAT IS YOUR CULINARY OBSESSION?
To nurture people. We, as chefs, have a responsibility to keep nature in balance. This
seems very deep but we need to work hard to preserve our nature for the next gen-
erations. We need to create awareness about our surroundings. We need to stop mass
production of unhealthy livestock. We chefs have to find ways of making unknown foods
delicious. We need to share our discoveries and help wach other to preserve what we
have.
Gherkin JuiceSlow cooked egg yolkWorcestershire sauce
148 merci magazine
merci magazine 149
150 g Watermelon, on a stable surface cut the water melon into half then into 1/4`s to make it easier to work with. Remove the skin and cut it into bite size pieces80 g Feta Cheese, Dice the Feta into bite size pieces20 g Basil, rip basil roughly with your hands6 g Alfalfa30 g Watercress10 g Pumpkin Seeds, place in a frying pan and toast until golden b rown2 turns Black Peppercorns1 g Salt Kosher10 ml Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Juicy WatermelonFETA & HERB SALAD
PREPARATION METHOD
Collect all your equipment & ingredients before you start & ensure you have enough time to complete the whole task wash all fruit and vegetables place all ingredients except the feta into a mixing bowl and mix then empty half the mix into the correct mixing bowl and add half feta place the rest of the mix on top add rest of feta put into a bowl and put some more pumpkin seeds scattered on to the top enjoy
NotesServe Immediately
150 merci magazine
Your Lifestyle MagazineSEE YOU ON DECEMBER 11, 2015
merci