Signature, September 2020

SEPTEMBER 2020

THE GOOD LIVING EDITION EXCLUSIVE

MATTHEW WILLIAMSON & ALCHEMY OF DESIGN

LUXE WHEELS

Q By Aston Martin & 007 Special Editions

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SEPTEMBER 2020

THE GOOD LIVING EDITION EXCLUSIVE

MATTHEW WILLIAMSON & ALCHEMY OF DESIGN

LUXE WHEELS

Q By Aston Martin & 007 Special Editions

PARISIAN FLAIR dinh van jewellery

www.signatureoman.com signatureoman

signatureoman

STYLE, GROOMING & MORE ...

VOL 9 - ISSUE 10 Cover Image: Matthew Williamson

EDITORIAL EDITOR IN CHIEF AISHA SAID AL BADI

Good Living in The New Normal Now more than ever, Home has become a place where both heart and health abound. The pandemic has brought us into a ‘New Normal’ and this has meant that our worlds that were once separate have enjoined in one place. Work-From-Home scenarios meant creating office spaces and also more time with family that you otherwise spent less time with due to work commitments.

Of course, the merits and demerits of working from home could be argued. But, not here and not now.

In this issue, we look at how to make house into a home that accommodates all the different needs of different people. Some might like cosy nooks, children might want bright playful corners, budding chefs among you might hanker for a state-of-the-art kitchen and yet others might want luxurious bathroom spaces.

GROUP EDITOR MAYANK SINGH CONSULTING EDITOR DEEPA RAJAN ART

A lot of thought goes into the interior design of a house. The furniture, the accessories, the memories and the little things indicative of the personalities living in the house all combine to give your home that distinct ‘feel good’ factor.

SENIOR DESIGNER ALIYA AL WAHAIBI PRINCIPAL PHOTOGRAPHER RAJESH RAJAN PRODUCTION SENIOR PRODUCTION MANAGER – PRINT & DIGITAL RAMESH GOVINDRAJ ADVERTISING & MARKETING ASSOCIATE ADVERTISING DIRECTOR CHANDNI MANIAR MEDIA CONSULTANT KRUPALI SAMPAT CORPORATE CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

Our Homes & Interiors Special offers stylish inspiration and practical expert advice to help you get everything you want in your home. You can keep up with the latest trends in furniture and accessories – and see how to use them in every room with help from our informative features.

Feast your eyes on stunning furniture and accessories from exclusive brands such as Boca do Lobo, Fendi Home and more.

Looking for design inspiration? Look no further than the A-List couple of singer John Legend and his model-turned-cookbook-author wife, Chrissy Teigen, who seem to have a knack for real estate and design.

ATULYA SHARMA DISTRIBUTION UNITED MEDIA SERVICES LLC Published by UNITED PRESS & PUBLISHING LLC PO Box 3305, Ruwi, Postal Code - 112, Muscat, Sultanate of Oman Tel: (968) 24700896, Fax: (968) 24707939 Website: www.umsoman.com All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the written permission of the publisher. The publisher does not accept responsibility for any loss occasioned to any person or organisation acting or refraining as a result of material in this publication.

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Copyright © 2020 United Press & Publishing LLC Printed byAl Anan Printing Press LLC Correspondence should be sent to: SIGNATURE UNITED MEDIA SERVICES PO Box 3305, PC 112, Ruwi, Sultanate of Oman Fax: (968) 24707939 e-mail: signature@umsoman.com, www.signatureoman.com For editorial enquiries: 99884854 For advertising enquiries: 93204670 : @signatureoman and Facebook: Follow us on Instagram @signatureoman. You can e-mail us at signature@umsoman.com

As usual we save our best for the last, our pièce de résistance is our exclusive interview with none other than celebrated interior designer Matthew Williamson, who is known for his use of colours that can turn any room into a vibrant piece of art.

Much like Williamson’s riot of colours, our pages offer the best there is to be offered in this New Normal. The resilience with which we have continued to rebound, innovate, disrupt, and turn the way we work, live, eat, and breathe has proven that the human race shall survive whatever life throws at us.

So, why not do it with some seriously good living!

See you next issue. Stay Home if you can and Stay Safe!

CONTENTS

03 BULLETIN 08 EXCLUSIVE 14 LUXE LIVING - INSPIRATIONS 16 LUXE LIVING - SHOWCASE 20 LUXE LIVING - DECOR 28 LUXE LIVING – COVETABLES 30 LEISURE - INTERVIEW 32 GOOD FOOD 34 LUXE WHEELS 38 JEWELLERY - Q&A 46 STYLE - Q&A 42 STYLE - EXCLUSIVE 49 BEAUTY 52 GROOMING

BULLETIN

SUSTAINABILITY MILESTONE Al Mouj Golf has further strengthened its reputation as one of the Middle East’s finest golf courses by successfully retaining its GEO Certified® distinction – a marque dedicated to recognising credible leadership in sustainability and golf. The certificate is awarded by GEO Foundation, an international not-for-profit dedicated to helping golf to deliver and be recognised for a positive impact for people and nature. Al Mouj Golf was first certified in 2017, and according to Nasser bin Masoud Al Sheibani, CEO of Al Mouj Muscat, “This continues to be an important partnership for Al Mouj Golf. I am incredibly proud of the team for successfully earning our recertification. Their efforts represent an important milestone in the facility’s ambition to operate in a highly sustainable way and will help us elevate the impact of our sustainability practice; creating new opportunities through education and responsible leadership, providing widespread benefits to a broad spectrum of stakeholders and championing innovation to set new benchmarks in such a crucial sector.”

Impeccable Service Mercedes-Benz Oman’s newly launched ExpressService continues to prioritise the highest standards of aftersales care for its customers. Available at service centres in Muscat, Sohar and Salalah from just OMR 47, customers can avail a comprehensive maintenance check provided by Mercedes-Benz certified technicians and be back out on the road faster than ever. The ExpressService includes a wide range of maintenance procedures including engine oil change, oil filter change, coolant fluid level check, brake fluid level check, windscreen wiper condition check, battery level check, tire condition check, brake pad and brake disc check, suspension components visual check, diagnostic computer check, and a vehicle wash and vacuum.

To book an ExpressService or for more information, call 80079777 or visit www.mercedes-benz-mena.com.

Irresistible Staycations In what can only be good news that we all need, Al Bustan Palace, a Ritz-Carlton Hotel has reopened its doors with staycation offers that are definitely hard to say no to! Created with the whole family in mind, a Resort Staycation can be purchased from just OMR 70 + taxes per night and includes access to the hotel’s recreational facilities. Savour an indulgent floating breakfast, try a culinary workshop, or simply relax by the pool, all while basking in the picturesque beauty of the resort. Children are also taken care of with complimentary swimming classes and engaging Ritz Kids activities. For those that simply want to lounge the day away on the beach, Al Bustan Palace Spa by the Ritz-Carlton, the only spa of its kind in Oman, features a ladiesonly private beach that can be enjoyed for a whole day for just OMR 10 per person on weekdays, and OMR 12 during the weekend. There is also the option of booking a personal beach cabana, offering the ultimate privacy.

In line with directives from local authorities and ongoing efforts to safeguard public health, Al Bustan Palace, a Ritz-Carlton Hotel has enhanced its cleaning and safety measures to ensure that the hotel remains a comfortable and safe environment for guests.

For enquiries or reservations, call +968 24799 666 or WhatsApp +968 98090 333 (Staycation packages). Alternatively, email reservations.albustan@ritzcarlton.com

BULLETIN

Galaxy of Choices

Island Hideaway If you fancy a vacation and are ready to jump the pandemic hurdles, then here’s another piece of good tidings. The exquisitely exclusive LVMH Hotel – Cheval Blanc Randheli has re-opened its doors to travellers. Located in the impossibly tranquil Noonu Atoll, Maldives, Cheval Blanc Randheli is a spacious hideaway made-up of islands, each offering a unique and dedicated experience. With 45 loft villas all feature a private 12.5m infinity pool, dining pergola, a private beach and spacious overwater decking, this tranquil hideaway has been designed for stylish barefoot living. Each villa is a spacious haven with lofty cathedral-style ceilings, which are framed by seven-metre-high handcrafted doors that create a strong sense of openness or when closed, an intimate atmosphere. Of course, for the ultimate in privacy, Cheval Blanc Randheli Private Island Villa, with over 1,000 sqm of space is the epitome of lush, modern island living with exceptional indoor and outdoor spaces, a private spa, a dedicated team of Ambassadeurs and a vibrant array of tailored services and amenities.

Samsung Gulf Electronics’ new power devices, which have enhanced the Galaxy ecosystem and together form the brand’s new suite of flagship devices, are now available in Oman. The highly anticipated range consists of the Galaxy Note20 and Galaxy Note20 Ultra, the most powerful Note series ever; Galaxy Tab S7 and S7+, the next generation of versatile tablets; Galaxy Watch3, the latest and most advanced edition to the wearables segments; Galaxy Buds Live, stylish and elegant wireless earbuds with outstanding audio capabilities; and the Galaxy Z Fold2, the next generation foldable smartphone with enhanced refinements. Introduced to empower consumers in their work and play endeavours, the innovative products seamlessly integrate to deliver greater meaning to consumer experiences and drive a new chapter in productivity and creativity.

Rounded Perfection The HUAWEI WATCH FIT is Huawei’s first ever smart sports watch with a rounded rectangular face and a 10-day battery life. Measuring 1.64 inches, the large yet perfectly proportioned AMOLED HD display allows consumers to engage with the HUAWEI WATCH FIT’s animated fitness courses and other unique features. With ultra-slim bezels, users can enjoy the dazzling and colourful display with minimal distractions.

The display also boasts 326 PPI and 16.7 million colour gamut for an immersive visual experience.

It also packs some smart and interesting features that make everyday life more convenient.

Incoming call and message reminders, remote camera shutter which allows you to snap photos when you are not carrying your phone and even music playback control. The HUAWEI WATCH FIT is available for pre-order from Huawei website for OMR 39.900 with a 6-month screen insurance.

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2020

Coffee Bliss

Fit Innovation

Coffee lovers rejoice! For, Nespresso has brought back its highly exclusive Special Reserve Hawaii Kona coffee. Hawaii Kona coffee has earned a global reputation as one of the world's most prestigious coffees, beloved by true connoisseurs. Nespresso's coffee experts challenged themselves to bring Hawaii Kona's remarkable sensory experience to its UAE consumers as a Special Reserve after a successful initial launch in the US back in 2012. Nespresso's coffee experts carefully controlled the roasting and the grinding of this coffee to enhanced its aromatic notes and finest flavours when consumers extract the cup. Nespresso’s Special Reserve Hawaii Kona will captivate coffee lovers as it gradually releases its exceptional roundness and richness alongside an array of delicate flavors and aromas. Made of pure Hawaii Kona Arabica, it is infinitely rich and smooth, with a velvety body.

Fitbit SenseTM is arguably the brand’s most advanced health smartwatch that uses innovative sensor and software technology with the world’s first electrodermal activity (EDA) sensor on a smartwatch to help manage stress, along with advanced heart rate tracking technology, new ECG app, and an on-wrist skin temperature sensor, all powered by 6+ days of battery life. The brand has also introduced the Fitbit Versa 3TM , with exciting new health, fitness, and convenience features, including GPS and the addition of Google Assistant. The Fitbit Inspire 2TM also gets an enhancement with increased battery life up to 10 days, more health and fitness features like AZM, and more.

Hijab Chic TOMMY HILFIGER’S first hijab is a sartorial masterpiece. Crafted from a fine, woven jacquard with a light shimmer of soft lurex thread, the hijab’s lightweight material allows for ultimate breathability and elegant comfort. The TOMMY HILFIGER hijab builds on the brand’s ongoing philosophy of inclusivity and diversity. Since opening his first store, People’s Place, in 1969 in his hometown of Elmira, New York, Tommy Hilfiger has brought people of all backgrounds together to share exciting pop culture experiences. As the brand has evolved over the years, it remained driven by this inclusive spirit. Today, TOMMY HILFIGER seeks to work for every fan, each season offering styles that honour the brand’s vision of creating fashion that welcomes all. with the hijab launch joining the brand’s expanded curve sizing, adaptive features and gender-neutral design.

Contemporary Coverings Launching exclusively on MATCHESFASHION, Wedel Art Collective’s collaboration with six international leading artists draws upon the power of contemporary art to encourage more people to wear face masks to protect, and support. These unique set of art-designed face masks are for a good cause with sale proceeds will be donated to international relief efforts and artist support for those affected by COVID-19. Each of the participating artists are internationally celebrated for their work addressing some of the most important social and political issues of our times. Through the inspiration of these artists’ work, the limited-edition face masks reflect the artists passionate and urgent response to the pandemic, highlighting the need for community action. Artists include: Jenny Holzer, Rashid Johnson, Barbara Kruger, Raymond Pettibon, Lorna Simpson, and Rosemarie Trockel.

CELEBRATE

LUXURY THAT ENDURES ...

Signature, Oman’s luxury lifestyle magazine, presents ‘Signature Luxury 100’, a special publication and Awards ceremony that commemorates the top 100 luxury brands that stood out this year for lasting qualities like craftsmanship, innovation and exclusivity.

To be a part of this unique event, Contact Krupali at krupali@umsoman.com or 96098811

COMING SOON | DECEMBER 2020

EXCLUSIVE

THE COLOUR WHISPERER

Deepa Rajan feels like Tim Burton's Alice in Wonderland as she explores the magic of interior design and colours that designer Matthew Williamson casts into his creations. In an exclusive interview with Signature, the designer talks about his career, love for colours & more ...

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O

ne of my most prized possessions was a Matthew Williamson notebook that I bought, but never used. The vibrance of the print that adorned the notebook was my little escape into a ritual that brought me that unadulterated thrill. Unfortunately, this secret joy giver of mine got lost in a house move and I have never been able to quite recover from that. The joy it gave me was one of transporting myself into a Fauvist painting, abundance of colour in forms that are equally ethereal.

No one understands colour and its nuances better than Matthew Williamson.

Williamson is the colour whisperer. Once a celebrated fashion designer and now an equally revered interior designer, Williamson has the secret key to unlocking the kaleidoscopic world of hues, patterns, and designs and turning them into objects of fascination, be it clothes or Coca-Cola bottles.

Williamson, whose alma-mater is Central Saint Martins – an educational shine of arts and design – first bestowed his brilliance upon the fashion world with ‘Electric Angels’ at the London Fashion Week in 1997. Fourteen vibrant looks found muses in models that included Kate Moss, Helena Christensen and Jade Jagger, giving the world into a peek of what was to follow.

Over the years, what has set Williamson apart from his ilk has been his ability to create unique design conversations with colour and his willingness to throw caution to the wind. At the top of his fashion game, Williamson was constantly seeking avenues to channel his design

“Colour is the greatest, most transformative tool in any designer’s kit. My work falls towards the bolder end of the spectrum of colour and definitely encapsulates the quintessentially Indian appreciation for brightness and joy in interior design.” ethos and infuse his love for colours into handbags, rugs, wallpapers, stationery and more. The Williamson ‘je ne sais quoi’ that won him awards and A-List celebrity admirers has seamlessly transitioned to his interior designing skills. After all, as Williamson himself puts it, “Dressing a room and dressing a person involve

different practicalities, of course, but similar principles.”

The designer’s oeuvre of interiors, furniture, and more offers transcendental experiences that one wants to cherish forever. Ahead of Williamon’s latest launch in collaboration with Pooky, a UK-based

decorative lighting brand, Signature caught up with the magician to talk alchemy of design, colours and more …

You exited the world of fashion at the top of your game and channelled your creativity into interior design. How does one arrive at that decision? Was it a gradual process or just the spirit of inspired spontaneity?

“My transition from fashion design to interior design was definitely a gradual process. Five years into my 20-year career in fashion design was when the fork in the road began to appear. Since then, I have been attuned to the interior design community and aware that I wanted to make that sideways step into the distinct but similar industry. In my career as a fashion designer, I was always interested in the homes of the people I was designing for. Dressing a room and dressing a person involves different practicalities, of course, but very similar principles. Diversity in scale, attention to silhouettes, colours and an expression of the self. The two disciplines

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are so entwined.”

In one of your talks, you said that your mother was your key style influencer when designing dresses. How would you describe her style, and does she still remain your muse when designing homes and interiors?

“My Mother is very much a muse for me in my design work. She has always been such a stylish figure in my life. She was as meticulous a dresser as she was a homeowner, taking much pride in how she looks as well as how she furnishes each room in the house. Both her wardrobe and her home are full of colour and optimism.

My mother really nurtured my skills as a child and a young adult, introducing me to experimentation with colour and form, being brave, vibrant and optimistic. These qualities made people gravitate towards her and I saw the effect she had on people.”

When designing, how do you find ways marry flamboyance and function? What else (apart from your mother) inspires you and your creative process?

“All design is personal and dressing yourself and your home share in the expression of your individuality.”

“The relationship between beauty and function is the root of all great design. The influences and inspirations in my design work are not down to one or two distinct things but are more nebulous and organic.

The first is my geography, where I am and the colours and atmosphere of the place.

I have spent most of my life living and working in England, India and Spain and I adore the diversity of the aesthetics of these places. In my home and the homes of my clients, you will see very formal English antiques paired with exquisite Paisley fabrics or wallcoverings with roots in Indian printmaking and light, fluidity in the space characterised in Spanish fincas.

“The second inspiration is craftsmanship itself. I have always wanted to make things and am fascinated by the skills of craftspeople all over the world, whether that’s weaving, metalworking or handturning wooden legs for a sofa. The conjuring of a piece of art or furniture from raw materials is pure alchemy and there is magic in the process.”

As an Indian, I love the fact that you are generous with colours. According to you,

how do colours contribute to the look of a room?

“Colour is the greatest, most transformative tool in any designer’s kit.

My work falls towards the bolder end of the spectrum of colour and definitely encapsulates the quintessentially Indian appreciation for brightness and joy in interior design. These joyful colours are certainly used less in the West because people tend to dress themselves and their home like their environments. So, in England homes involve lots of neutrals, beiges and grey - something I am trying to combat.”

As someone who has worked in both the industries, would you say there is a nexus between fashion and interior design? Can they be mutually exclusive of each other?

“I don’t think fashion design and interior

design are mutually exclusive. I think they share in something so fundamental to people who care about aesthetics. If you are considerate and discerning about the way you dress, the chances are you have a beautiful home, and vice versa.

“All design is personal and dressing yourself and your home share in the expression of your individuality.”

You have been in the industry for 20 years now and we are living in times where the current crisis has given impetus to the WFH movement. With more people choosing to spend time at home, how do you see the need for interior design evolving over the years?

“There is a broad notion that people are becoming more discerning about their homes and what they bring into them, and there is some truth in that.

At a practical level, people will need to ensure their homes are working hard for them, allowing for work and play (and sleep!). Reconfiguring your space to ensure that the hours we spend at home are comfortable and functional is key to interior design of 2020 and beyond.”

QUICK TAKES • Three design elements that never fail any room – “Lighting, colour, and the contrast between old and new.”

• Your definition of a good interior design – “Design that brings optimism and joy to the everyday.”

• A Matthew Williamson design always has … “Intelligent use of colour.”

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LUXE LIVING – INSPIRATIONS

DÉCOR INSPIRATIONS

When it comes to stylish living, no one does is better than the star-power couple John Legend and Chrissy Teigen. Their latest family designer home is up for sale at $23.95 million! You could either buy it or simply take some serious design inspirations from it!

T

he A-Lister couple of singer John Legend and his modelturned-cookbookauthor wife, Chrissy Teigen, have been everywhere lately making a huge splash between recording songs for John, such as his new Wild, and Chrissy’s

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2020

cookbooks and associated engagements. Now with one of the most stylish homes in Beverly Hills and a third child on the way, they’re listing their beautiful home at $23.95 million and moving on up.

The busy couple has a talent for selecting exquisite real estate and their homes are routinely featured in Architectural Digest.

This one is certainly no exception. Built in 1966 and brought up to the highest

contemporary standard, the 8,520-squarefoot home has seven bedrooms and eight baths. The high drama of the entry, with its 33-foot ceilings, curving stairwell leading to a second-floor catwalk and purple grand piano, is only a taste of what is to come. It leads into a large living room with a floor-to-ceiling glass wall with views over the canyon. The chef’s kitchen is the ideal venue for a chef-author to test sumptuous recipes and leads into a

spacious family room. The master suite has a brass, concrete and clay fireplace, a balcony with far-reaching views and his-and-her dressing room and walk-in closets that are more like fashion showrooms and Italianinspired “Glam Room.” All seven bedrooms are ensuite and have balconies. Also included is a gym and comfy home theater. Special finishes and decor include mandala-patterned ceilings from Thailand, ebonized cerused oak floors, clay and steel-rolled walls, onyx sinks and Italian quartz countertops.

Outside, the entertainment area includes fabulous canyon views from the pool terrace, which has a heated saltwater pool, jacuzzi, chef’s grill and wood-fired oven. A grapevineshaded pergola is perfect for alfresco dining.

Super celebs John Legend and Chrissy Teigen are at the top of their game careers and a talent for picking real estate that they turn into modern contemporary palaces.

Now on the market is their exceptional Beverly Hills home.

Hard to top this one, it will be interesting to see where they go from here. Priced at US$23.95 million and in case you have your heart set on buying this super luxury home, then the listing agent is Marshall Peck of Douglas Elliman, Beverly Hills!

Editorial credit: DFree / Shutterstock.com | Caption: John Legend and Chrissy Teigen

PHOTO CREDIT: Anthony Barcelo, Courtesy of Douglas Elliman. This article has been sourced via TopTenRealEstateDeals.com.

LUXE LIVING - SHOWCASE

An Ode to Arab Culture

Jotun has recently launched the Exterior Colour Collection, that features a spectacular array of 17 hues that bring together the glorious past, present and future of the region.

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Jotun, the region’s leading paint brand, embraces the legacy and culture of the Arab world with the launch of their new Exterior Colour Collection. Inspired by the Arab world, this newest collection ‘One Colour’ encompasses four main colour themes Heritage, Nostalgia, Tomorrow and Somewhere. Each of the collection themes celebrates the past, present and future of Arab culture.

The Exterior Colour Collection is creatively influenced by the region that is a treasure trove of inspiration to the world. It captures the four multi-coloured facets of lives in the Middle East tailored for the exterior walls of homes, combining luxury and superior quality.

Commenting on the launch, Rana Khadra, Colour and Creative Manager at Jotun Middle East, India and Africa said, “The Exterior Colour Collection is inspired by our lands, our people, our food, and our beautiful history. It is a reflection of the warmth and hospitality that play a very important role in the lives of every Arab and we at Jotun have been inspired by these pillars in the creation of our collection. It has been inspired by the Arab World, for the Arab World.

“The palette is a proud expression of the personalities and lives from the region. It is based on warm, inspiring, earthy and welcoming hues that bring what is on the inside to the outdoors.”

LUXE LIVING - SHOWCASE SPOTLIGHT ONE COLOUR Created by Jotun’s team of experts, this new shade is an embodiment on our region. This colour is a celebration of the warm, inspiring, earthy and welcoming reflections of this region’s memories, its lands, it’s past and future.

Jotashield ColourXtreme is an ultra-premium quality exterior paint that provides the best colour experience with an unparalleled resistance to dirt. With these properties it offers the lowest maintenance and lasting colour performance making your home look new for many years to come.

COLLECTION THEMES

Jotashield Décor Travertine provides a majestic stone finish inspired by the regionally famous Travertine Rock. A beautiful textured look that is authentic, making it the ideal finish for both modern and traditional homes.

NOSTALGIA – a charming collection of colours inspired by the fondest memories of the yesteryear. These shades are sentimental hues of reminiscence from the region and its nostalgic places.

HERITAGE – a tribute to everything that has out lived time. This palette is a tribute to our traditions. Colours that reflect the rich legacy of antique and ancient crafts, taking a step back in time to bring back the beautiful aspects of our heritage.

TOMORROW – captures the curiosity of what really lies ahead.

This theme brings a forward-thinking look through interesting bold shades; colours inspired by the trends of tomorrow.

Jotun’s newest Exterior Colour Collection is a truly inspiring and innovative palette formulated by a team of experts giving everyone the freedom to choose without compromising on style, functionality and maintaining the culture and heritage that they are proud of. While the interior of the homes reflect the personality of the consumer, the exterior also portrays the lineage and character of the entire house.

SOMEWHERE – represents the diverse landscapes of the special places. A selection of earthy tones designed to bring places we love to our everyday lives.

Complementing the vibrant colour collection are two main Jotun exterior products – Jotashield ColourXtreme and Jotashield Décor.

Exterior Colour Collection is available in all Jotun stores across the region.

For more information visit: https://www.jotun.com/me/en/b2c/products/jotun-jotashield/

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Jotun Colour Academy:

Continuous Learning for Architects & Interior Designers In the 21st century, we never stop learning. To help interior designers and architects build their skills, Jotun launched its Colour Academy in 2018.

If you are an Interior Designer & you would like to attend the upcoming Colour Academy or Workshop please contact Mahira Saqib on mahira.saqib@jotun.com

T

he Colour Academy is an an intensive training course specifically developed to teach designers, architects, specifiers and consultants about the art and science of colour.

“Colour Academy offers participants valuable insights on how the language of colour can be used to create dynamic interior and exterior spaces,” says Mahira Saqib, Retail Development Manager & Jotun’s certified colour teacher. “So far, we have conducted two exclusive workshops for top interior designers and architects in Oman and based on positive feedback from the participants we will soon be conducting more trainings as it has become very much in demand and designers & architects are now requesting to join this academy.”

LUXE LIVING - DECOR

ECLECTIC HEAD TURNERS!

Remarkable designs meet the finest of craftsmanship to create these stunning head turners from BOCA DO LOBO, a brand that is a pinnacle of luxury and style

VERSAILLES ARMCHAIR Inspired by the extravagance that is the Versailles Palace, this armchair can make a stunning statement piece in any room. It has been created in a wood structure and panels in a manual sculpture, produced in resin and finished with restoration techniques similar to stone. The upholstery fabric is made up of velvety and removable pillows. The legs are produced in acrylic.

PIXEL SIDEBOARD

MONOCHROME FAUXMARBLE SIDEBOARD A demonstration of both imagination and strong design skills, the Monochrome console table stands out with its daring curvy shapes and dark tones. Carefully built from resin, the Monochrome is composed of three separate modules, embellished with hand-painted faux-marble and finished with a high gloss varnish coat.

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Iconic and unparalleled, the Pixel Sideboard presents a groundbreaking work of pioneering design.

Its playful character is captured in shape and colour palette, challenging design and finest craftsmanship. The double-sided sideboard comes with three doors covered by triangles made from anodized aluminium.

WAVE CENTER TABLE Wave is an original and a stylish coffee table for a modern living room as it is also an unconventional centre table for your sitting room. With great style and elegance it creates an exclusive ambiance to your modern interiors. Developed by a Portuguese jewellery artisan, this piece is made of hand hammered copper with a black mirror top. The base is lacquered in black finished with a high gloss varnish.

METAMORPHOSIS CONSOLE The Metamorphosis console table has come to symbolise the evolutionary history of life, representing the last stage of the cycle through the usage of sculpted fossils on display at the top of the table. The Console is composed by a top and base finished in polished inox and brass beautified by the presence of golden creatures. The two brass plated feet are finished with casted brass details.

GOLD MARQUETRY FOLDING SCREEN Once a status symbol, the folding screen finds itself reinterpreted in modern form by furniture makers, who adopted the concept of marquetry. The folding screen comes with three tabs made from fiberglass, finished with wood veneer.

SKYSCRAPER BLUE FLOOR LAMP This statement home accessory can light up the focal point of a room. The Skyscraper lamp is one of the brand’s original and exquisite décor pieces.

Delicately hand carved mahogany base with a fringe lamp’s shade, Skyscraper’s base is brilliantly finished in a white lacquer with a gradual colour transition to blue.

GUGGENHEIM EBONY ROYAL CABINET Inspired by Guggenheim Museum, this handcrafted, extremely versatile and unique piece is ideal for storing glassware and fine silver collectibles - a great complement to any classic or modern interior setting. This ebony royal edition revealing the most detailed handmade woodwork, makes this cabinet a special possession to own.

STONEHENGE LAPONIA GREEN SIDE TABLE Evoking the essence of the prehistoric monument Stonehenge, positioned asymmetrically and composed by a striking variety of finishes and materials such as brass and marble, this side table could easily become the centre of attention in your living space.

The metallic hues add an elegant contrast and yet combine to pay tribute to the Neolithic and Bronze Age.

LUXE LIVING - DECOR

Where Nature Meets Fashion

FENDI Casa’s latest collection takes inspiration from nature and the colours of the earth, introducing unique and elegant elements and details.

In tune with modern needs, everything from the design to the colours find themselves emboldened in versatile forms. New style elements flow in harmony with colours of nature that range from syellow to orange and deep red that invoke the sunrises and sunsets. You also find the deep green of tropical forests and ultramarine blue, enhanced by mixing tobacco and black, leather and amber, variations of the Maison’s iconic colours. A collection that includes exquisite products, offering a lifestyle capable to stand out in different times and places to live the home in an elegant and sophisticated way.

MARGARET ARMCHAIR Iconic armchair of the new collection, it shows a padded frame with metal details in gunmetal, Bronze Shadow or Palladium finishes.

BOOGIE COFFEE AND SIDE TABLES Play of colour and geometric references to the patterns of the Roman Maison in the Boogie coffee and side tables. The frame is in steel with Bronze Shadow or Palladium finishes. The top is available in glass or marble. In glass the options include transparent laminated and beveled bronze; extra-clear tempered, monochromatic back decorated; extra-clear tempered, handdecorated with Linear shaded decoration. In marble, the options include Calacatta Warm Gold or Portoro Palladium with matte finish, or Rosso Lepanto or Verde Alpi with smooth finish.

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RIPPLE PEQUIN COFFEE TABLE The strong reference to the Roman Maison stands out in the Pequin motif of the top. The frame is in steel with gunmetal, Bronze Shadow or Palladium finishes. The removable top is in extra-clear tempered glass, back decorated by hand with Pequin design and shades in ultramarine blue, saffron and light orange.

Special FENDI logo with letters in polished brass effect finish.

PRIVATE GARDEN VASES Compositional and geometric elements, they reveal a coloured glass frame in ultramarine blue, saffron, light orange or green. The decorative grid is in steel in the Bronze Shadow or Palladium finishes.

For more details log on to: luxurylivinggroup.com

LUXE LIVING - DECOR

Hygge Chic The IDdesign is characterised by furniture and home accessories that have been handpicked and designed with the well-known Scandinavian sense of detail and quality in mind

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In IDdesign’s latest collection, you can find items that match your personal interior style in the engaging housing sections with great inspiration and affordable designs. Mix and match the styles and items that reflect your personality and find new ways to make your house your home.

Design, comfort and craftsmanship are united in IDdesign’s furniture. The brand carries a full range for products that are vital to good living – from dining to sleeping comfortably and lighting to other accessories.

What is more that the brand has now introduced an IDRewards Loyalty Program where you can shop online to earn IDRewards points for every purchase of furniture and accessories. You can redeem these points for free furniture and accessories.

Shop online at www. iddesignoman.com and get your favourite pieces of furniture and accessories delivered right at your doorsteps.

LUXE LIVING - DECOR

Dynamic Forms A casual and spontaneous mood that inspires the entire 2020 collection, starting with the new Oval armchair presented in the Tru Damas fabric version. The inspiration comes from the classic damask fabrics, decorative designs made with the Jaquard technique, mixing different fibres. References of an informal and geometric style that connects the house to the world of Trussardi fashion more than ever. The distinguishing marks of the Milanese brand inspire the furnishings designed by Carlo Colombo, bringing the leather goods traditions of the Greyhound into the Trussardi Casa craft laboratories. Made in Italy remains in the background of the entire Trussardi Casa line, an intangible value that never been so concrete. The new refined dark matte bronze and bronze sandblasted smalto finishes, accentuate the discreet and contemporary luxury of the 2020 collection.

DEVEN CHEST OF DRAWERS AND BEDSIDE TABLE

OVAL ARMCHAIR Designed by Carlo Colombo, the Oval family reflects the heart of the Trussardi Casa 2020 collection. The new Tru Damas fabric accentuates the iconicity of the armchair, emblem of informal, young and dynamic elegance inspired by Trussardi understatement. The central element of the project is the metal oval, profile of the Trussardi logo: like an ancient medieval emblem, it recalls the iconic Italian spirit of the Milanese brand.

Made of steel in the new dark matte bronze galvanic finish, it features dark chocolate Vermont leather details with Greyhound logo print.

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Inspired by Trussardi’s iconic Lovy Bag, the Deven line is enriched with a chest of drawers and night tables. Carlo Colombo reinterprets the working technique applied to the bag in the vertical quilting in leather, playfully alternating between full and empty spaces, open compartments, drawers and doors with varying storage functions. The frame is in Brazilian Rosewood, bronze colour sandblasted enamel finish. Coordinated interior and backrest. Wooden drawer with front covered in Nuvola leather, vertical quilting.

BAND LITE SOFA A best seller of the Trussardi Casa collection since the beginning, the Band sofa is renewed in the Lite version, lighter and more contemporary. A metal detail, which in the particular 45 ° cut rises from the foot and becomes the frame of the armrest, enhances the design of the sofa: a clear and defined sign that outlines the structure in an extremely original and recognizable way. The feather seat cushions offer utmost comfort, thanks to the insertion of the new roller (optional). Steel frame and details in the new matte dark bronze finishes, a matte galvanic finish with a slight translucent effect, and bronze coloured sandblasted enamel, finished with a hand brushing that accentuates the shine.

BAND COFFEE TABLE The new coffee and side table Band presents a steel structure in gunmetal or brushed bronze finishes. The frame is covered in Vermont or TT printed leather, which reproduces the brand’s “T” all over in the version with mirror top. The top is in white Carrara marble, Emperador dark or mirror, smoked grey for the version with gunmetal legs or bronze in the version with brushed bronze legs.

For more details log on to: luxurylivinggroup.com

LUXE LIVING – COVETABLES

SOUND INVESTMENT Persy Booths are the perfect tools to enhance your office space, be it an actual office or even your home one, with vibrant colours and at the same time offer you the sound-proof solitude that is needed to accomplish work!

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s we often do, in our mission to curate only the best products that will add a bit of luxurious edge to your lifestyle, we chance across products that may not be available in the region or Oman but are well worth putting on the wish list!

Persy Booths are one such marvellous piece of innovation that we thought would fit in right with the Signature crowd that cherishes its solitude as much as it enjoys the vibrance of noise.

Persy Booths were born from a lack of silence. Founded by two young professionals, Persy Booths discovered a way to create affordable private spaces that are comfortable for people to use.

The Persy ONE, called so because it is a compact space for one, is a focused design that offers soundproofing, ventilation, and comfort to do your work in peace! So much so that you could be sat in the middle of a bustling office environment or even noisy children and yet manage to get your work done!

Available in over 25,000 possible colour combinations that will appeal to your office design aesthetics, and your home décor choices, Persy Booth is indeed something that will fit in well.

Let’s begin with its most interesting feature: The

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Soundproofing. The booth uses 4 layers of soundproofing materials to absorb different sound frequencies and offer you the quiet you need.

Three layers of soundproofing materials line the walls, each absorbing different sounds and as their commitment to sustainability, the makers have chosen to use around 800 recycled PET bottles to create an acoustic PET felt finishing for the interior walls, which absorbs any echo inside the phone booth.

Glass with an acoustic laminate limits sound entering or leaving the booth and special sound-traps are used to limit the sound entering through ventilation channels, which ensure that the space is anything but claustrophobic. The superb ventilation, offered by 7 ultra-quiet fans, works to circulate fresh air into the booth and warm air out. All fans operate at 19 dBa or less, making them each as quiet as a whisper. The energy consumed by the ultra-quiet fans makes them up to 8 times more energy efficient than traditional ventilation fans, which are motion activated.

The magnetic door allows you ease of access even with your hands full.

Inside, you will find a spacious oak table, an electricity outlet and 2 USB charging ports keep your devices charged.

Designed to ensure comfort of the user, the Persy One booth is an optimum space saving tool that will fit in to the environment you want it to!

As of now the Persy One is only sold with the EU and if you do have any queries you can always reach out to them!

For more information log on to: https://www.persybooths.com

LEISURE - INTERVIEW we decided to come up with a plan that would secure our future in the new normal and allow us to maintain our integrity as a hotel group.”

To this end, Radisson Hotels hired the services of Swiss - based SGS, the world’s leading inspection, verification, testing and certification company, which reviewed its best health and safety practices from top to bottom. “Following this, Radisson Hotel Group came up with a 10-step and 20-step protocol, which ensures that all aspects of both the staff and guests’ lives in the hotel continue to be safeguarded.”

Dynamic & Agile Leadership In conversation with Panos Panagis – General Manager of Hormuz Grand Muscat, A Radisson Collection Hotel and the District Director for Radisson Hotels, Oman – on his career and experiences, mitigating and navigating the pandemic, and giving people a safe space to relax and unwind in Hormuz Grand Muscat …

With nearly 30 years of experience in the hospitality sector across countries and continents, Panos Panagis – General Manager of Hormuz Grand Muscat, A Radisson Collection Hotel and the District Director for Radisson Hotels, Oman – is likely no stranger in overcoming the challenges the industry has previously faced, working to ensure that the customer’s wellbeing is at the heart of every decision.

Armed with a formidable experience, Panos has been able to meet the challenges and impact of the pandemic head on and work to implement Radisson’s roadmap towards ensuring the short-term future and long-term success of the business in Oman.

“I have been in this industry for nearly 30 years having worked across the sector in seven different countries, some of which were developing economies,” Panos

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says, detailing the “unprecedented” challenges caused by the pandemic as something he has “never faced before” and hopes never to face again.

“I do think we need to remain positive.

Having done extensive reading on this, I feel that there are similarities between what the world faced with the Spanish Flu in the early 20th century and the situation now. However, then it took a while for the world to recover, but now our recovery process will be quicker because of the progress we have made in the information age,” he says.

At the outset of the pandemic, he conducted a strategic review of what the hotel could do as a business, coming to the conclusion that it would have to be a lot more “dynamic and agile” in the way it moved forward.

“When our hotels restarted in March,

Panos, whose regular presence at the hotel led the way in maintaining staff morale and continued operations, says that domestic tourism has become a key demographic with the lack of foreign visitors due to air travel restrictions. “I would say we've been quite successful because our hotel has managed to remain open throughout. The hotel has been able to provide people, who were cooped up in their homes, a place to relax and unwind. The hotel created luxury takeaway menus that offered the best of fine dining. Our staycation offer has proved to be popular after the lockdown was lifted.”

Ever the resourceful thinker, Panos has ensured that people can continue to enjoy the famed Radisson hospitality and is overseeing the introduction of new services such as an in-house bakery, which will deliver delectable freshly baked bread & pastries to your doorstep.

He adds, “We are also working currently to bring out a special dining offer for September. Apart from that, our recently reopened gym, pool, spa and meeting venues also meet the necessary the guidelines of the government of the Sultanate of Oman as well as those of the World Health Organization and Radisson Hotel Group.”

Panos’ optimism is positively infectious, and his wealth of experience gives him a unique perspective into what the future holds. “I am optimistic and hope that as a global community, we will leave this behind us soon and become hopefully wiser about the way we live our life and what is important. My experience has taught me to be resilient and to be hopeful of making it through to the other side, no matter what the situation and my aim has always been to come out of any crisis as a better individual and business leader.”

Words and wisdom that will resonate not just through the hospitality sector, but the wider business leadership as a whole.

Pushing new frontiers in Oman’s e-commerce landscape

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the Sultanate’s newly launched home-grown portal

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Shopping. Simple

GOOD FOOD

ON TRAIL OF FINE FLAVOURS We all enjoy good food and we all know that the Michelin star and guide are the most coveted title and tome in the hospitality industry. So, what goes behind making of the Michelin Guide?

Deepa Rajan had the opportunity to interview Gwendal Poullenec, International Director of the Michelin Guides recently. Presenting the excerpts‌

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HOW DOES A RESTAURANT FALL UNDER THE RADAR OF THE MICHELIN GUIDE? “All our inspectors develop an intelligence network both regionally and internationally over time. Of course, they are always reading reviews as well and they are always on the lookout for stories about new openings and chefs who are on the move. It’s also about getting to know your patch well, and when you combine these things there isn’t much that gets past them. And don’t forget – restaurants can always contact us directly, and we actively encourage people to get in touch with recommendations. Social media is ideal for that, and it’s becoming an important tool for us.”

HOW DOES THE INSPECTION PROCESS TAKE PLACE? WHAT PARAMETERS ARE THE RESTAURANTS JUDGED ON? DO THE INSPECTORS GET TO CHOOSE WHAT THEY EAT? “It’s all about the quality and consistency of the food. It doesn’t matter if the restaurant is the swankiest place in town or totally informal. If the food is good enough, it’s in. To make sure our inspectors get the same experience as everyone else, they book anonymously, and they always pay their own bills – and we will return to an establishment as many times as we need to be sure it’s at Michelin Star level.

“Because they book anonymously, they can choose whatever they like – or whatever they feel will tell them most about the overall standard of the offer.”

ACCORDING TO YOU, DO PEOPLE CHOOSE FOOD BASED ON HOW IT LOOKS? HOW IMPORTANT IS A PRESENTATION TO A MEAL? “I think that depends on the person, the restaurant and the context. Menus are still mainly text-driven, so often words are more important than pictures. But how often

do you see another table’s dishes and make a choice that is at least partly based on aesthetics? And then there are so many images of food on social media these days, and I’m certain these can sway people to visit a given restaurant – if not choose specific dishes. So, it wouldn’t surprise me if presentation was becoming a more important factor for consumer choice, but for us it’s still all about the flavour and the quality – not the aesthetics.”

HOW IMPORTANT ARE FOOD TRENDS IN TODAY’S CULINARY WORLD? ANY INTERESTING ONES, ACCORDING TO YOU, THAT WILL RULE THE DINING TABLES THIS YEAR? “That’s difficult as there is such variety internationally.

Having said that, the interest in vegetarian and vegan food seems to be crossing many boundaries, as does a real focus on using ingredients that have been grown and processed sustainably.”

WHAT ARE THE FIVE THINGS SOMEONE SHOULD KEEP IN MIND CHOOSING A RESTAURANT AND WHY ARE THESE FIVE THINGS IMPORTANT? “I’m tempted to say: the food, the food, the food, the food and the food, but it’s not quite that simple for most people. It’s impossible to pinpoint five criteria. Eating out is different things to different people at different times. Should the person booking a business lunch look for exactly the same experience when he or she is organising a family celebration? Probably not. “It largely depends on context. If you are on holiday, the location and views could be critical, for example. Or if you just want to make memories with your family, the informality or quality of the service could turn out to be vital. Whatever the occasion, though, the Michelin Guide is there so that when people are making a decision, they have access to an informed and independent judgement on the food.”

LUXE WHEELS

Crafted to Bond Perfection There is no other way to celebrate the release of a 25th James Bond film other than with two spectacular 007 limited edition sports cars and when it is Bond, the cars have to be from the stable of Aston Martin! Read on to find out more

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t is a momentous occasion and it deserves a magnificent celebration. What are we talking about? Well, the 25th James Bond film, ‘No Time to Die’, is all set for its release in November 2020. To celebrate this, Aston Martin and EON Productions, which produces James Bond films with Metro Goldwyn Mayer Studios, have come together to create two very exclusive 007 special editions of the Aston Martin Vantage and DBS Superleggera.

Both the special editions are being offered in limited numbers and have been designed and crafted by Aston Martin’s bespoke division: Q by Aston Martin.

VANTAGE 007 EDITION Inspired by the original Aston Martin V8, which made its 007 debut in The Living Daylights in 1987 and also features in No Time to Die, the Vantage 007 builds on the formidable sporting style and performance of the regular Vantage.

A bespoke mesh grille with chrome bezel references the look of the brand’s classic V8 along with other unique styling details that include a dashed yellow diffuser inspired by the hazard stripes on the film car’s rockets.

Authentic Cumberland Grey exterior makes a style statement that is expertly complemented inside with obsidian black leather and dark chrome with 007 branding applied on the centre console of cars equipped with a manual gearbox. The sun visors of all the cars will carry another subtle film reference in the shape of an embroidered radio station frequency – 96.60 (FM) – which 007 buffs will know was the Russian police frequency Bond used to aid his escape in The Living Daylights.

Apart from plush seats full of nods to the heritage of both the V8 and the film, you can also indulge in laser-etched gadget

plaque that references the various weapons and devices seen on the original film car. Available as a manual or automatic, the Vantage 007 Edition also boasts a side strake Vantage badge and is limited to 100 units globally.

DBS SUPERLEGGERA 007 EDITION This Bond edition evokes the same formidable presence as the muscular DBS Superleggera that features in the upcoming film.

Even more exclusive than the Vantage 007 Edition, this sports beast is limited to just 25 production cars available worldwide.

LUXE WHEELS

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No Time To Die will feature no fewer than four iconic Aston Martin sports cars: the iconic DB5; the classic Aston Martin V8; the brand’s latest super GT, DBS Superleggera; and the exceptional Aston Martin Valhalla – the company’s forthcoming midengined hypercar.

As things currently stand, the car’s 5.2L V12 twin-turbocharged engine produces the greatest torque figure (Torque peak: 900Nm) any roadgoing Aston Martin yet produced. The 715bhp is befitting of the car’s range-topping status.

A beast on the road, the car is a stunner too. The DBS Superleggera 007 Edition comes with a styling and design enhancements that add panache to performance. The car sports special Ceramic Grey exterior paint with the roof, mirror caps, splitter, diffuser and rear Aeroblade IITM featured in black tinted carbon fibre. Also unique to the 007 Edition are visually striking Gloss Black diamond-turned Y-Spoke 21” wheels.

This special edition also features a 007 fender badge, finished in chrome with a black enamel infill and Stainless-Steel Silver 007 foil applied to the rear spoiler blade. Inside, the cockpit of this DBS Superleggera is a dark, brooding, leatherclad environment with flashes of red detailing the outline of the seats. Subtle 007 branding can be found on the door cards, armrest buckle badge and on the rear sub-woofer cover. The car is finished with a sill plaque that recognises it is one of just 25 DBS Superleggera 007 Editions.

JEWELLERY – Q&A

Geometrical Elegance Thierry Vasseur, Dinh Van’s General Manager, speaks with Signature on what makes dinh van Paris stand apart

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s French fashion was finding its voice through readyto-wear collections and designers such as Yves Saint Laurent and Pierre Cardin became names to reckon with, a quiet revolutionary idea was brewing.

If fashion could walk the streets of Paris, so could jewellery, thought a young jeweller and that sowed the idea for contemporary jewellery that could still make head turns without the fuss of flamboyance. In “In this atmosphere of bubbling creativity and liberation of woman, Jean Dinh Van,

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himself as the free spirit of jewellery.

Jean Dinh Van left Cartier, his workplace of ten years, to start his own brand in 1965. He reinvented the codes of jewellery-making and found a pure approach to design and brought out the free, unfettered spirit of jewellery that lives today in the marvellous dinh van creations, capably steering by its General Manager Thierry Vasseur.

who worked for ten years as craftsman at the House of Cartier, began to dream of a new jewellery. If fashion was brought out onto the streets, why wouldn’t jewellery leap out of its safes? The young troublemaker immortalised his first ideas in 1965, distancing himself from tradition to consider a pure approach to design, he reinvented the precious gem and asserted

A jewellery expert, with over 20 years of experience under his belt, Vasseur has found new ways to strengthen dinh van’s brand identity – ‘the free spirit of French jewellery’ – and take it to new heights by expanding the brand’s presence across the globe, including places such as Dubai, Paris, New York, London, Tokyo, Geneva, Beirut, Miami, Bahrain, Morocco, and Toronto.

Like dinh van’s founder, Vasseur also worked in Cartier, for over 14 years, where he acquired a fine eye for jewellery as the

International Marketing Director before he left to join a French fashion label, Comptoir des Cotonniers as Deputy Chief Operating Officer.

Signature spoke to Vasseur on how the brand has continued to keep true to its ethos and found ways to reach out to the customer even as the world battles a crisis…

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE THE BRAND’S DESIGN ETHOS? WHAT MAKES THE COLLECTIONS STAND APART? “In the mid-Sixties, French jewellery was prisoner of its tradition. Meanwhile, the

fashion industry like the design industry were exploring new territories. They expressed the transformation of the society that was entering a new age: Courrèges designed the first mini-skirt, Cardin created the first line of unisex clothes and Yves Saint Laurent invented the ready-to-wear with Saint Laurent Rive Gauche. Thanks to the development of plastics, Knoll began mass production and democratised design pieces of furniture.

JEWELLERY – Q&A

“In this atmosphere of bubbling creativity and liberation of woman, Jean Dinh Van, who worked for ten years as craftsman at the House of Cartier, began to dream of a new jewellery. If fashion was brought out onto the streets, why wouldn’t jewellery leap out of its safes? The young troublemaker immortalised his first ideas in 1965, distancing himself from tradition to consider a pure approach to design, he reinvented the precious gem and asserted himself as the free spirit of jewellery.

“Born in Paris, in 1965, Dinh Van has been the first to introduce design and

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minimalism in its creations. Indeed, traditional jewellers took their inspirations from fauna and flora and religious symbols. Dinh Van is inspired by design, especially Bauhaus movement, takes its inspiration from essential and geometric shapes (round and square) and plays with empty and full spaces.

“Moreover, jewellery is often a matter of showing off, whereas dinh van seeks for minimalism and simplicity. We believe, from the beginning, in the power of ‘Less is More’ to sublimate men and women who wear dinh van’s pieces of jewellery.

of daily life, and to accompany women in every situation. Since then, dinh van keeps on following the same will: create an everyday jewellery easy to wear on every occasion through the day. Our creations match with each style.”

GIVEN THE CURRENT MARKET SCENARIO, HOW WOULD YOU SAY THE BRAND HAS EVOLVED TO SUIT ITS CLIENTS’ NEEDS? “During last Spring, all our markets experienced the lockdown. All our boutiques and retailers were closed for more than two months, some of them for a trimester. We had to adapt ourselves quickly to respond our clients’ needs.

“Our e-shop was the only boutique still open. We re-enforced the digital and eCRM team to respond to the client's questions and needs. Even during those turbulent times, happy moments such as births and anniversaries still exist. Our clients were still willing to purchase and offer jewellery and we were available to reassure and serve them.

“Even now, that the situation is better, and our boutiques have reopened, we’ve adapted our CRM. We don’t organise in-store events to present our novelties to our clients, but we use new tools of communications, we do facetime, videos, and send photos via WhatsApp. Our store manager is still in contact with the customers and we provide deliveries.”

“A dinh van piece of jewellery is easily recognisable among a thousand. Our design is pure, essential, one could say “simple”, but this is more about signature.

As heir of Bauhaus, design is the keystone of the creative process. The brand invents contemporary fine jewellery with a single thought in mind: true luxury means simplicity.”

BALANCING A TRADITIONAL ARTFORM WITH NEEDS OF THE MODERN CONSUMER IS NOT AN EASY TASK. HOW DOES THE BRAND ACHIEVE THAT? “The dinh van House was precisely created in opposition the traditional artform of jewellery. The original idea of the House was to follow the mutations of the society, and to follow the new rhythms

HOW DO YOU SEE THE JEWELLERY INDUSTRY BOTH REGIONALLY AND LOCALLY MOVING FORWARD FROM THIS CRISIS? DO YOU SEE A SHIFT IN TRENDS AND IF SO, WHAT WOULD THEY BE? “Our business model and ways of growth are different from most of the brands

of the luxury industry and from our competitors. We’ve always focused on local clients in each market.

The current difficulties of the industry are due to the impossibility of travelling, stopping the international tourism. For some brands, tourists represent more than 70 per cent of their clients. This isn't the case for dinh van, as our stores create a continuous bond with the local clientele. Resulting in the fact that in times of international difficulties, our business is not impacted. This Summer, we are currently experiencing a period of great growth!”

PERSONALLY, HOW WOULD YOU SAY THE PANDEMIC HAS CHANGED YOUR LIFESTYLE AND APPROACH TO IT? “During the lockdown, while working from home, I took time to enjoy being with my family. Now that we are back at work, I take good care to respect distancing and follow the government sanitary recommendations. And I go walk to work, which allows me to enjoy the beauty of the streets of Paris.”

THE BRAND: COLLECTIONS “The brand has four main iconic collections: Menottes dinh van, Pulse dinh van, Le Cube diamant and Serrure. We regularly launch novelties in each of these collections. Le Cube diamant collection is one of our most emblematic collection of the House. Indeed, it embodies perfectly the dinh van design: It combines two geometric shapes; the circle, a symbol of spirituality, and the square, a symbol of stability. The two opposite figures unite to greet a beautiful diamond. This collection was originally thought in white gold. Now we’ve declined the large bracelet in yellow and pink gold to fit to the tendency: the stacking.”

TO DISCOVER DINH VAN COLLECTIONS AND NOVELTIES, YOU CAN VISIT THEIR ICONIC STORE AT THE DUBAI MALL!

STYLE - EXCLSUIVE

Of Spies & Sartorial Flair MR PORTER and acclaimed filmmaker Matthew Vaughn have got together yet again to launch the third ‘costume to collection’ collaboration of luxury menswear label, Kingsman, developed and inspired by the forthcoming 20th Century Studios film, The King’s Man, in theatres this month. Presenting an exclusive Q&A with Sam Kershaw, Buying Director, Mr Porter, on Kingsman, and what inspired the latest collection.

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Let’s start from the beginning, how did the project come about?

“The initial project came about in 2013 after a conference call took place between director Matthew Vaughn and the MR PORTER Executive team. Matthew explained he was developing a film, Kingsman: The Secret Service, and how as a fan of cinema’s most iconic, stylish films, he noticed how often the costume design played a pivotal role in his memory of the film and yet the clothes or accessories were never available for viewers to purchase. He was developing a script centered around sharply dressed spies, and was looking for a partner to produce and develop a collection in which art imitates life – also, he was seeking a partner that had both style gravitas and a modern, global approach to marketing and story-telling - this is where MR PORTER naturally came in.

“Developed in collaboration with then Costume Designer Arianne Phillips, the process to design the collection and choose the brands to work with was very organic.

Arianne worked alongside Matthew and MR PORTER to create a collection valid in a retail environment.

“Since then, we released another ‘Costume to Collection’ Collaboration coinciding with the 2017 film Kingsman: The Golden Circle,

STYLE - EXCLUSIVE

as well as 12 seasonal collections from the Kingsman brand on site.

“Now seven years later, we have collaborated with award-winning Costume Designer Michele Clapton on a third ‘costume to collection’ developed and inspired by the forthcoming 20th Century Studios film, ‘The King’s Man’.”

Tell us more about how the Kingsman brand has performed since the first collection for Kingsman: The Secret Service.

“When we first launched Kingsman in 2015, the whole concept was a bit of a gamble. We

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had confidence in what we had created and collaborated on with Matthew, but you can only do so much until you gauge its response in the outside world. Needless to say, we were happily surprised by the immediate success with our customers and with the reception from media. At MR PORTER, the proof is in the product, and we created a truly compelling luxury tailoring line, with the support of esteemed, ongoing partners such as George Cleverley for shoes, Turnbull & Asser for shirting, Drake’s ties and pockets squares, so on and so forth. Since our launch, Kingsman has grown in depth

and breadth and has become one of MR PORTER best-performing luxury labels, now in its 13th commercial season. Consistently, the original suiting, ties and shoes perform particularly well.”

What is different about the current collection compared to previous collections?

“The key difference and distinction of this collection is influenced by the time period of ‘The King’s Man’, and its setting of World War 1. It’s an origin story, and the costumes reflect the tailoring and way of dress of

the time period, with an introduction to classic military styles, a trope in menswear that remains as relevant today. We took special consideration to accurately reflect the period, while also modernising these menswear modes of dress for our MR PORTER customer. Michele did a tremendous job in creating costumes that reflect both the story and its characters, while incorporating that elegant and wearable Kingsman touch that is synonymous with the collections to date.”

New brands have been added to this collection, how did you decide which brands to work with?

“We approach partner brands with the same sense of storytelling and character development that goes into the filmmaking process. We ask ourselves, which brands make sense for a MR PORTER customer, and which make sense for the storyline of the film.

“For Kingsman: The Secret Service, many of the pivotal scenes were set on Savile Row, in the stealth Kingsman HQ located in a tailoring shop. MR PORTER led with the development of original Kingsman tailoring, and we rounded-out the first collection with the best of British partners – Turnbull & Asser, Cutler & Gross, George Cleverley, and Drake’s all of which remain staples in the collection.

“For ‘The King’s Man’, we sought heritage partners with histories that date back to the era. This season, I’m particularly excited about our collaboration with Jaeger LeCoultre, who looked into its archives for inspiration. The renowned watchmaker developed a new timepiece inspired by its celebrated 1907 ‘Couteau’ pocket watch. The new Master Ultra-Thin Knife, which is worn

by The Duke of Oxford (Ralph Fiennes), is a refined dress watch that blends tradition and modernity in a manner perfectly suited to both ‘The King’s Man’ and to contemporary style. The collection also includes a writing instrument from Montblanc.”

Tell us more about the context of the costume within the film and how it relates to the Collection?

“Nineteen-ten style and dress played a critical role in the costumes in the film.

Knowing that authenticity was critical to the film, we wanted to ensure that that aesthetic was translated into the actual collection.

“Certain items like Conrad’s (Harris Dickinson) three-piece suit, Shola’s (Djimon

Honsou) military-inspired Oxford coat or the Duke of Oxford’s (Ralph Fiennes) pocket watch are near replicas from the film and are firmly rooted in early 20th century style and were tweaked ever so slightly for the modern man. As Matthew Vaughn said, “This time period is where the tradition of ‘Manners Maketh Man’ was formed.” It’s that spirit that we aimed to communicate through this collection.”

What makes the brand different from anything else in the market?

“Kingsman remains a one-of-a-kind industry-merging partnership and is a wildly successful standalone brand that functions with each film, with the development of new ‘costume to collections,’ and on its own seasonally on MR PORTER. It’s as much a part of Matthew’s cinematic language and story-telling, as it is a well-regarded and popular-selling luxury label that sits alongside MR PORTER’s finest offering.”

THE KING’S MAN COLLECTION The entire luxury The King’s Man collection, collaborated on with award-winning costume designer Michele Clapton, encompasses 170 pieces. Many of the original Kingsman categories and partner brands feature within the collection, including: Kingsman original tailoring and knitwear; Turnbull & Asser shirting; Cutler & Gross eyewear; George Cleverley shoes; Drake’s ties and pocket squares; London Undercover umbrellas; Deakin & Francis cufflinks and small accessories; Corgi socks; William Lockie knitwear; Lock & Co. Hatters; Higgs & Crick glassware and desk accessories by Smythson of Bond Street. Additionally, MR PORTER has also debuted new products and partner brands including a writing instrument from Montblanc and a limited-edition timepiece from Jaeger-LeCoultre, exclusive to MR PORTER through to the film’s release in September.

To view the latest season of Kingsman on MR PORTER alongside original ‘costume to collection’ core pieces, visit: www.mrporter.com/kingsman.

STYLE - INTERVIEW

FEMININE AESTHETICS

Signature speaks to Noor Al Bahrani, who launched her fashion brand at the start of this year. We ask her how she has weathered the pandemic storm and found ways to stay relevant in the New Normal …

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Noor Anwar Al Bahrani studied Electronic Engineering before she decided that fashion was her calling. The birth of her first daughter cemented her belief and lifelong passion for fashion and led Noor to launch her eponymous label at the start of this year.

A brave move as it would turn out for Oman born and raised Noor, given that the year brought along with it a health crisis that has seen far-reaching consequences across the globe.

However, Noor chose to look upon this as an opportunity and focused on building her brand presence through social media.

Noor’s clothes are a reflection of her personal style and unwavering vision and take inspiration from nature and timeless storytelling. Her most recent Autum/Winter 2020 collection, featured here, explores the essence of Laurel Clockvine plants and her next collection promises to be an ode to travelling, something she misses doing as much as we all do.

In an interview with us, Noor talks about her brand, how it weathered the storm and how she has been moving forward in the New Normal as she continues to create ethereal and dreamy designs that are a reflection into her calm soul and positive disposition.

FLORAL ODE Inspired by the beauty of Laurel Clockvine flowers, Noor Al Bahrani’s Autumn/Winter Collection tastefully references the petals through graceful silhouettes of long dresses, jalabiyas, capes and separates, ruffled skirts, and kaftans that use fabrics such as crepe, chiffon and velvet crepe to accentuate the richness of the embroidered flowers. Colours leap out in ethereal abundance in warm tones of petal, mauve, burgundy and dusty rose with hints of gold and sand.

HOW HAS YOUR BRAND PRIORITISED ITS TIME DURING LOCKDOWN? DID YOU HAVE A BUSINESS CONTINUITY PLAN? IF SO, DID IT WORK AS HOPED? “I launched my brand in January 2020, so it was quite a shock to go into lockdown not long after the launch! However, I perceived the lockdown as an opportunity to build my brand presence on social media and create a strong sense of brand identity. It also

allowed me the time to design and focus on future collections. I believe I did the best I could in the situation and I’m now ready to continue building my brand and expanding to new markets.”

HOW HAS THIS PANDEMIC CHANGED THE WAY YOU INTERACT WITH CLIENTS? WHAT PRACTICES HAVE YOU IMPLEMENTED THAT MIGHT CONTINUE

POST THIS SCENARIO? “It is very important for us to stay in touch with our clients. We constantly keep in contact with them via WhatsApp and social media and ask them for their favourite looks and colours. We then take this feedback and see how we can incorporate such details into future collections.”

HOW HAS YOUR DESIGN PROCESS CHANGED TO SUIT THE CURRENT ENVIRONMENT? GIVEN THAT WORK-FROM-HOME CULTURE IS PROBABLY GOING TO BE PART OF THE NEW NORMAL, DO YOU SEE YOURSELF DESIGNING PIECES THAT WILL LEND TOWARDS MORE RELAXED YET FORMAL CUTS? “My designs always have a feminine aesthetic fused with flowy silhouettes, making it comfortable. I have seen that as a way of adapting to the ‘new normal,’ people are taking the effort to dress more elegantly even while at home and I believe Noor Al Bahrani styles are perfect for that!”

HOW DO YOU SEE THE FASHION INDUSTRY BOTH REGIONALLY AND LOCALLY MOVING FORWARD FROM THIS CRISIS? “The current crisis has given everyone a chance to take stock and incorporate more thoughtful and meaningful steps. Moving

forward I think we are going to see the industry slow down with brands releasing more seasonless collections. However, I believe the creativity and craftsmanship involved in fashion wouldn’t be affected by the pandemic.”

PERSONALLY, HOW WOULD YOU SAY THE PANDEMIC HAS CHANGED YOUR LIFESTYLE AND APPROACH TO IT? “The pandemic has challenged me in all parts of my life - both personally and professionally. It has allowed me to reflect and re-evaluate my strengths and weaknesses and to grow. I also appreciate the slower pace of life which I hope to continue in the future.”

FINALLY, WHAT DOES YOUR NEXT COLLECTION LOOK LIKE? “I miss travelling and exploring new places that fuels my creativity, so my next collection is inspired by one of my favourite places in the world.”

BEAUTY

Your Monthly Fix A delectable fragrance, luxurious skin care, and more …Our Beauty editors pick their favourites this month!

CARTIER LES ÉPURES DE PARFUM Cartier perfumer, Mathilde Laurent, has created the first trio of Les Épures de Parfum — as three irresistible pieces of living high jewellery. The collection consists of Pur Muguet, Pur Kinkan, Pur Magnolia: Three ultra-realistic, striking, and vibrant olfactory pieces. While the Pur Magnolia evokes freshness and radiance, the Pur Muguet channels the contemporary scent of Lily of the Valley. The Pur Kinkan is a light fragrance that invokes the purest form of citrus.

ODIST MAKEUP BRUSHES Looking for brushes to perfect your makeup strokes and do someting for the climate?

Then look no further that Odist, an ethical and climate-conscious beauty brand, which has recently launched a collection consisting of 10 premium makeup brushes, which is good for the skin and soul. The clean, minimalistic, and luxurious makeup brushes include 5 face and 5 eye brushes all made from three high-performing vegan hair types, each engineered to work with specific textures and formulas.

CHANEL LE LIFT CRÈME DE NUIT

Your skin needs pampering 24x7 and the Le Lift Crème De Nuit does just that to give your skin the rest it deserves in the night.

Formulated with 94 per cent natural-origin ingredients, botanical alfalfa extract — the signature of the LE LIFT line — joins forces with the new Neuractive Night complex, which comforts skin and stimulates its renewal; all in an enveloping texture that soothes skin at night so that it can glow during the day.

NATASHA DENONA BRONZE COLLECTION Available exclusively at Sephora Middle East, Natasha Denona Bronze Collection is packed with hydrating formulas, pure colour pigments and irresistible textures to complement your summer glow. This collection is all you need for a perfect summery bronze look.

Choose from the 15 new shades for the Bronze Palette for the eyes, Bronze Cheek and Lip Oh-phoria gloss & balm new shades.

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GROOMING

Up Your Game Looking for a razor or maybe a fragrance? Our Grooming editors pick their favourites this month!

FOREO LUNA 2

A good cleansing routine is only as good as the cleansing tools you use! Enter the FOREO LUNA 2 for MEN. Its cleansing mode channels T-Sonic pulsations to provide a much deeper clean than washing by hand, lifting away 99.5 per cent of dirt, oil and dead skin cells to reduce breakouts, remove ingrown hairs, prevent razor burn, and help razor blades last up to 2x longer!

GILLETTE HEATED RAZOR Amp up the heat with the Gillette Heated Razor. The winner of Time magazine’s Best Inventions of 2019, this heated razor is your tech genius answer to the hot-towel routine.

The stainless-steel heating bar comes with two settings (43 degrees and 50 degrees) and four sensors ensure that the temperature is evenly distributed. The five blades used are equipped with the superbly crafted Gillette FlexDisc Technology. The waterproof razor comes with a rechargeable lithium ion battery that lasts for up to six shaves.

AMOUAGE INTERLUDE BLACK IRIS The latest creative Interlude interpretation from Amouage has been brought to life by by master perfumer Pierre Negrin in the form of Interlude Black Iris, which has been inspired by Georgia O’Keeffe’s famous painting of the eponymous name. A spicy, woody Eau de Parfum, it evokes an air of disorder while maintaining a sense of balance and tranquility through the inventive use of Orris, Frankincense and Myrrh.

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ORAL-B IO™ TOOBRUSH

Teeth have never had it this good, thanks to the latest innovation from Oral-B. Oral-B iO™ is the latest to join the impressive line of power toothbrushes from the brand.

Winner of the CES Innovation Award this year, this series has been reimagined and redesigned from the inside out, combining best-ever clinical performance with a superior user experience. The Oral-B iO™ features a frictionless magnetic drive and a redesigned iO brush head, which has been engineered to combine oscillating and rotating cleaning motions with microvibrations for a professional clean feel.

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