Latest Posts by visionofsplendor - Page 5

Aman Greece

On the Peloponnese Coast of Greece on the outskirts of Porto Heli, the new Aman will be opening this Summer. Amanzoe meaning peaceful life , the Sanskrit word Aman meaning Peace and the Greek word for life Zoe (pronounced zoi).

The Amanzoe has 38 Suites, The Pool Pavillion comes with Six Meter Pools and Deluxe Pavillion with 12 Meter Pools, high ceiling big living and sleeping areas all with large terraces with lounge , sunbathing and dining areas.

Surrounded by Olive Groves and views over Spetses and the Argosaronic Gulf, this Ed Tuttle designed Aman also has bigger villas for sale, Beach Club, Spa, Dinning, Lounge and a main swimming pool.The other activities will include visits to Ancient Sites surrounding the area, boat excursions to nearby Islands on the Hotels' Wally Powerboat (see archive on a post them) or a traditional Kaiki, trekking, riding, olive picking and make your own olive oil.

Only a 2 1/2 hour drive from Athens or 2 Hour boat ride, or even if you prefer 25 minutes by helicopter, Amanzoe is perfectly situated, am sure it will be a huge success.

Am open to invitations! Hint hint.

Kalosilthate Amanzoe xo

Content via,Amanzoe , Pinterest and Flickr

This is Not A Hippie Bag

 One day a lovely friend of mine walked in carrying an incredibly beautiful piece of work, a handbag with such beautiful fabric and detail that I had to ask her where in the world she found this, from a designer in LA she said, you have to look at her collection you won't know which one to pick. Am not a big handbag person, but am into craftsmanship and unique pieces that have a story.

Fast as flash I looked her up, Simone Harouche a wardrobe stylist had been over the years collecting 19th  dowry textiles, to antique tribal costumes, wall hangings, beading, coins, Afghan bridal jewellery and more from countries such as Nepal, India, Morocco, Peru, Pakistan and Egypt.  With such a exquisite collection she was inspired to create for herself a handbag made out of some of these findings, the bag was so eye catching that a friend saw it and commissioned one for herself and from there the orders started to come in, thus the line Simone Camille was born. 

All the bags are handmade and unique so you will not see anyone wearing the exact same one as you they come in different shapes and sizes, I always stopped when I wear mine, these are not your average Hippie Market bag, more like luxury Bohemian.

Have a look at the Website on where to buy and a huge array of choices, perfect for the summer,

I Just love xo

Photos via ,

www.simonecamille.com

www.c-a-n-o-p-y.tumblr.com

www.sisterhimalaya.tumblr.com

www.earth-age.blogspot.co.uk

Sinatra's Twin Palms

One fine day in May 1947 Frank Sinatra walked into the office of Architect E. Stewart Williams  and stated that he wanted him to build him a house but it had to be done by Christmas, and wanted to be done in a Georgian Style. This style was not suited to the Palm Springs climate, so Stewart Williams presented him with two designs one in the Georgian style he had requested and another more modern, low built, that blended in with the Desert surroundings and colours.

Thankfully Sinatra choose this design and incredibly Williams built the House in time for Christmas, it was the family run firm Williams, Williams & Williams first private home commission and would become the house to set the trend for architecture in Palm Springs.

What a great history, would have loved to have been at one of Sinatra's Legendary parties in that house, as we all know that Dean Martin, Ava Gardner and all of Old Hollywood would come and stay, he would cut some of his records there using the wonderfully named Valentino Electronics of Hollywood.

The Twin Palms Estate as it was named can be rented, shame Frank Sinatra and friends don't come with the house, those were the days.

That's Life, xo

Sources via,

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=avU2aarQUiU

www.sinatrahouse.com

www.beaumondevillas.com/california/palm-springs/twin-palms/index.html

www.flickr.com

www.wikipedia.org

I Loewe You

Clockwise: Founder, Enrique Loewe Roessberg (1844-1929); Enrique Loewe Hilton (1879-1934), charmed high society to Loewe; Enrique Loewe Knappe (1912) pioneered international expansion; Enrique Loewe Lynch (1941) launched ready-to- wear in the 60’s, and created the Loewe Foundation, 1988.

Most people when they see the name Espagana , they think of Flamenco, bullfights, passion, paella, sangria, tortilla and Ibiza.

Let us not forget the incredible history of this country that brought these worldwide famous painters like Velazquez, Picasso, Goya and Dali and the legendary story of Don Quixote de la Mancha written by Miguel de Cervantes to name a few of the top of my head. The other well known Spanish expertise comes from craftsmanship and leather.

This is where the House of Loewe (lo-ay-ve) comes in, in 1846 a leather goods workshop was created  by  a group pf craftsmen on the year of two royal marriages, that of Her Majesty Isabel II of Bourbon to the Duke of Cadiz and that of Princess Maria Luisa Fernanda to the Duke of Montpensier. In 1872 Enrique Loewe Roessberg, a German craftsman specializing in leather working arrived in Madrid and decided to join forces with the these craftsmen and established the Loewe brand. With the precision and technique of Enrique Loewe and the creativity, leather and sensuality of Spain the house of Loewe rose in popularity becoming the Official Supplier to the Spanish Royal Crown in 1905. Famous stars such as Ava Gardner, Cary Grant, Sophia Loren, Maria Callas and Ernest Hemingway would all purchase from the Gran Via store in Madrid.

Loewe started expanding all over Spain and in 1963 opened its first boutique in London's New Bond Street. Loewe then branched out into the Fashion Industry, Karl Lagerfeld, Giorgio Armani and Laura Biagiotti were behind the first Women's Ready to Wear Collections. From there they created perfumes, Men's ready to wear and opened shops all over the world, in 1988 the Loewe Foundation was created including the Annual International Poetry Prize . In 1996 on the 150th Anniversary of the House of Loewe  LVMH took over the ownership of the brand, now with by Stuart Vevers as the Artistic Director of the brand.

What wonderful history this brand has, and if you ever get a chance to pass by their store go and view their collection "Clothing as Light as Air, as Soft as Silk", the leather is so so soft you can't believe it , the quality is just perfection.

Ole! xo

All photos via,

www.loewe.com

Research via,

www.wikipedia.org

Nomadic Airstream

This wonderful 1969's Airstream trailer owned by Designer Rachel Horn and her husband  Justin Kreizel , who were inspired when they deiced to attend the Burning Man Festival.

Found on Craig's List fro $5000 , they gutted and totally renovated the trailer into this beautiful Moorish Inspired design. Beautiful Kitchen with stainless steel appliances and Corian counter tops. Living area with a day bed using luxurious fabrics from Nobilis, Donghia, Larsen , tribal inspired rugs in shades of blue and grey. The bedroom is separated by curtains and Moorish arches and clever storage under the beds.

What a beautiful and well designed Trailer, in this small space they thought of everything, there is even air conditioning and a Cappucino maker. I would not mind going anywhere in one of these! They should be the official designers of Trailer Chic or  Nomadic Trailer Hotel were you can rent them and have room service and depending the season be in different locations....

Happy Trails! xo

All photos via www.nytimes.com

Colour Me LULU

Should your glance on mornings lovely

Lift to drink the heaven's blue

Or when sun, veiled by sirocco, Royal red sinks out of view,

Give to nature praise and honour.

Blithe of heart and sound of eye,

Knowing for the world of colour, where its broad foundations lie.

Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

The lovely Lulu de Kwiatkowski, She paints, she designs fabrics,wallpapers, dinnerware, pillows , rugs, bedding and my favourite of all are her collages that she transformed into a handwritten and hand painted journal, travelogue, bio, titled LULU all created on from her kitchen floor.

All this amazing work and a mother to three boys, I should have paid more attention when we were in art an sculpture class together at school!

To view more of her work go to her website and wonderful blog where I was inspired to do this post,

Brava xo

www.luludk.com

Images via Luludk, 1stdibs & ClicGallery

Cathleen Naundorf

Hamiltons Gallery in London is Exhibiting for the first time the works by German Cathleen Naundorf. Her Haute Couture series titled  "Un Rêve de Mode", Cathleen had the incredible opportunity to work with the greatest couture houses, Dior, Chanel, Valentino, Elie Saab, Lacroix & Gaultier. her work is so outstanding that the she was given complete access to choose gowns from their archives for her production of this series.

Her attention to detail is obvious as she researches her work thoroughly , cataloging her journey in handmade journals that develop into her storyboard. Including text, sketches, composition, everything carefully thought of, the models, hair, makeup, locations. Would love to see that journal, there will be a book published on her work sometime this year.

I have seen two of her images at Hamiltons stand in the PAD Fair London and they were breathtaking , they really are from another era, I believe that Cathleen Naundorf is going to rise as fast as a Shooting Star.

Dast ist Wunderbar xo

Exhibition is on from 1-31 March 2012

Hamiltons Gallery

13 Carlos Place

London

W1K 2EU

Images via ,

www.cathleennaundorf.com

www.hamiltonsgallery.com

Amaridian

Amaridian is the symbolic combination of two words, the Zulu word " Amadlozi" meaning "Ancestral Spirit" and the word "Meridian" the imaginary lines that traverse the Globe.

This wonderfully named Gallery by South Africans Mary Slack and Fraser Conlon is based in New York city. Their vision  educates us on the immense talent of the African Continent, very tribal yet modern at the same time.

Anyone who has ever been to Africa falls in love with the place, the magic, the people, the colours, the animals, the music and now you can also fall in love with these artists thanks to Amaridian.

Thank you Africa for all your wonderful gifts. xo

All Photos  and more information on all the artists via,                   www.amaridianusa.com

The Great David Hockney

The Royal Academy of Arts in London presents David Hockney's The Bigger Picture, featuring very Large scale paintings inspired by the East Yorkshire Landscape, these works were made especially for the galleries of The Royal Academy. What a lovely marriage, I cannot wait to see David Hockney's brilliance in such a way.

Am not going to compete with Art Critics in writing something very clever and intellectual, for me his work visually says it all, so here are some resources if you want to know more on David Hockney...

Cheerio xo

Click on the video on Royal Academy link below

http://www.royalacademy.org.uk/exhibitions/hockney/

http://www.vintageseekers.com/vantage-point/vs-reviews-hockney-at-the-royal-academy?image=5

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/destinations/europe/uk/london/exhibition-in-focus/9026080/Exhibition-in-focus-David-Hockney-RA-A-Bigger-Picture-Royal-Academy-of-Arts.html

Totally Crazy for Elise Dray

Bo Goia Dragon Earring in White gold, White, Grey & Black diamonds.

Bo Aigle Earrings, White Gold and White & Black Diamonds.

Hypocampe Ring , Black gold, Grey & Black Diamonds.

Bracelet Black Leaf, White Gold , White Diamonds & Onyx.

Bague Siamoise, Black Gold, White & Black Diamonds & Blue Sapphires.

Bracelet Peace Flower, White Gold & Black Diamonds.

Bague Hibou, Black Gold , Onyx , Black Diamonds & Rubies.

Bague Muguet, Black Gold , Black Diamonds & Red Sapphires.

Collier Aigle. Yellow Gold, Black & White Diamonds.

Bo Feuille de Latanier Earrings, Yellow Gold, Tigers Eye and White Diamonds.

Bague Serpentine, Rose Golds and Brown & Black Diamonds.

Bo Leaf Earrings, Yellow Gold, Malachite & White Diamonds.

Bague Papillion, Rose Gold & White Diamonds.

Bague Hippie Croix , Yellow Gold & White Diamonds.

As I was browsing for jewellery to drool over I stumbled upon a piece that made me blink a couple of times in rapid succession. What was this ? A Dragon Earring made of Black and White Diamonds.

I quickly researched this genius designer and fell totally in love with the world of Elise Day. Dragons, Wings, Leafs, Serpents, the Mythical World,  are some of her subjects for her pieces, yes we have seen some of these used before but the design is done in such a clever and beautiful way that I had such a hard time picking a few to chose for this post.

Based out of Paris her shop is located in 7 Rue de La Paix, How come I never saw it before! How wonderful to find someone as unique as her. Can't believe no one stocks her here in London and only one shop in the US.

Get on her website to see even more choice,

J'Adore Elise Dray xo

All Photos via www.elisedray.com

Oh Herve!

I would kill for a Herve Van Der Straeten piece, I know its a bit extreme but anyone that sees his work feels the same way.

Studied painting at Le Ecoles des Beaux Arts, he started his career with jewellery design which am a collector of and always get such nice compliments on. His jewellery have a very architectural and geometric look to them , made of bronze or gold which give a beautiful glow against the skin.

He then transitioned on to Furniture and lightning , made in house by his highly skilled craftsmen , with such exquisite precision and meticulous attention to detail , I am sure that his work will be a future classic.

Herve has received numerous awards including the esteemed Chevalier des Art et des  Lettres and the L’Entreprise de Patrimoine Vivant .

His line is represented by the wonderful Ralph Pucci International with location both in New York or LA, or you can make an appointment at Herve Van Der Straeten Gallery in Paris. For the Jewellery you can buy it at Neiman Marcus , Bergdorf Goodman in the USA or Erickson Beamon in London.

Just Splendid xo

Image Sources and where to buy,

www.vanderstraeten.fr

www.ralphpucci.net

www.bergdorfgoodman.com/search.jhtml?N=0&Ntt=Herve+Van+Der+Straeten&_requestid=1541

www.ericksonbeamon.com

Back at The Ranch

Howdy!

The Double RL Ranch outside of Tulleride Colorado is not your average ranch, No Sir it is not.

One of the many homes of Ralph & Ricky Lauren the ranch is set in a mere 16,000 acres of beautiful land. With a barn that's over 200 years old, Tepees hand painted by Native Indians, with Cabins named Little Bear & Elkmeadow and a 1960's Silver airstream trailer, the choice of accommodations is vast and charming.The Spirit of the Old West Americana that Ralph Lauren does so well, for me the Lauren Family got this so spot on.

Last August the Double RL Ranch was the perfect backdrop for the wedding of David Lauren and his bride Lauren Bush who transported everyone in time with the fantastic  traditional Old West/Meets Little House in the Prairie theme in Lauren style and yes of course the wedding dress was designed by Ralph.

Ralph and Ricky can you be my in-laws too?? xo

Photos Via Architectural Digest and Vogue

Carl Kapp

South African born , Australian based Carl Kapp has designed a beautiful and fresh Summer 2012 collection . Having worked at Kenzo and Donna Karan to name a few, his pieces are draped sensually but elegantly on the body.

With a customer base of Nicole Kidman, Cate Blanchett and Rose Byrne who all wear his dresses with style, this young man has a  a gained a good following. The lucky people of Sydney were is shop and atelier is based can have his dresses made to order.

One on my list of must haves... shame Australia is not round the corner.

G'Day xo

www.carlkapp.com

The Imagination of Eva Menz

Born and Raised in Munich Germany Eva Menz chandeliers and installations are out of this world. Pieces can are customized in different sizes and materials to best suit your space. Crystal waterfalls and birds flying into the sky all with names like Free as Bird , Galaxy and Vortex, her work is unique and ethereal.

Trained at the Prestigious Central Saint Martins in London, Eva has accomplished a spectacular portfolio of work. Now I just need to find a bigger home to fit one of the pieces or hang one outside of my building if all else fails.

You can find her workshop in Notting Hill, or Browse her website to see more of her designs in different spaces such as Hotels, Restaurants , Yachts and private homes.

Let there be light xo

Eva Menz Design

10 Claredon Cross

London , W11 4AP

Tel +44 (0)20 7243 8292

www.evamenz.com

A Universe In The Ocean

  “That was the most amazing, the most incredible moment of my life; as if I had been offered a trip to the moon … I thought of nothing else for months before it happened. Afterwards, for weeks I couldn’t talk about it without crying. I’m still not entirely over it … It was so beautiful and so intense, it changed me forever.”

Producer, journalist and film director of wildlife documentaries Claire Nouvain's speaking of her experience when she was invited on board the submersible Johnson Link-1 to travel down 1000 meters below the ocean in the Gulf of Maine part of the Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institution.

From this life changing experience she set out to produce this beautiful book on the incredible universe that lies in the Abyss of our Oceans. A mind opening book of 220 mesmerizing photographs of marine life that has never seen before by most of us.

With an average of depth of 3800 Meters, the oceans offer 99 per cent of the space where life can develop on Earth. The Deep Sea occupies 85 per cent of this space, and thus forms the planets largest habitat. " And what do we know about it? Compared to what remains to be discovered practically nothing."

One of the major discoveries is that the depth is full of lights. There is no light from the surface,  so creatures make their own, as many as 80-90 per cent of the animals are bio luminescent. Like fireflies they light themselves to collect food, to attract pray, to confuse predators and to signal potential mates.

Wow how fascinating is all this, am sure we won't find Nemo down here. This book will be a future classic, thank you Claire Nouvain  and all the scientists for opening our eyes to the magic of this planet.

Enjoy xo

Sources,

www.thedeepbook.org

www.literaryreview.co.uk/robinson_05_07.html

Francis Sultana Vision's

London Based Maltese Interior Designer Francis Sultana has created a elegant line of furniture. With his incredible vision which he honed at the wonderful David Gill Gallery over 19 years working there, his line is made with great attention to detail , clean lines and luxurious fabrics. Modern but yet traditional, the crafstmanship of his pieces stand out in this world of mass market furniture.

His collection can be viewed at David Gills former gallery on Fulham Road London. You must go and visit.

www.francissultana.com

Divine xo

P.s David Gill has moved to his new  gallery to Mayfair, also wonderful and on another posting will do a piece on him.

All photos via Francis Sultana website,1stDibs and Robb Report.

Cabin Fever

Snow Cabin via Sister Himalaya

Winter Home via Architectural Digest

Modern Mountain home via Pinterest

Rustic Bathroom via Pinterest

The Peak of Rustic Chic Idaho via Elle Decor

Rustic Bathroom via Sisson Designs

Jackson Hole , Wyoming via Elle Decor

Le Chalet Chatel via Les Fermes de Marie

Wild White Horses via Sister Himalaya

Chalet Table scape via Pinterest

Fairy Trees in The Snow Via Pinterest

Am off to the Swiss Alps for a couple of days to enjoy some Nature and fresh Air, can't wait after 2 months in the city.

Yodel Away xo

Happy New Year 2012

A new dawn is here, may it be  blessed, may you have the strength and courage to make the changes you always wanted to make, may your dreams come true and your spirit soar. Remember you are not alone, 2012 here we come! Happy Happy New Year to you all! With Love xoxo

"Yesterday I was clever, so I wanted to change the world. Today I am wise, so I am changing myself."

Rumi

Hacienda de San Antonio

Set on the outskirts of the Municpio de Comala one of Mexico's Pueblos Magicos (Magical Towns) Hacienda de San Antonio  is another of Sir James Goldsmith properties , who obviously had very good instinct for magnificent properties. My previous post was on his beach property Cuixmala, this 19th Century Hacienda is built on a plantation estate on the foothills of Volcan de Fuego. This two story hacienda sits on a 470 acre expanse within a 5000 acre working ranch, coffee plantation and organic farm.

Originally completed in the 1890's by Don Arnoldo Vogel an immigrant from Germany who found that the cool highland was ideal for growing Arabica coffee, which was so successful that it was exported to the German Imperial family. The Vogels built a chapel dedicated to San Antonio when in 1913 the Volcano erupted but spared the plantation.

Works in the hacienda come from Mexico's leading artisans, rich in tradition that make you feel at home, the beautiful rooms come  views and fireplaces for the cooler nights. Dinning on Mexico's traditional recipes, a wide range of organically grown fruits,vegetables, cheeses and meats all provided by their farm El Jabali . For me it would be drinking the fresh coffee straight from the plantation that you can also visit, with views on the volcano.

The activities are special , archeological sites visit , Volcano Excursions , horse back riding , Ariel tours, cheese factory , Coffee roasting tour, Colonial Towns and Museums and Galleries. Phew!

You can also visit the town were you can watch a traditional rodeo, shop some artisan crafts or you can drink some of the local drinks made from tamarind, and other fruits called Ponche or La Tuba a fermented semi alcoholic drink made from palm tree sap, which originates from the Philippines.

Cielito Lindo xo

Click below to Listen to this beautiful famous Ranchera song

Cielito Lindo Lola Beltan

www.haciendadesanantonio.com

www.comalamexico.com

Cuixmala

This stunning and vast estate of 25,000 acres of land, beaches , lagoons was the private home of the late Sir James Goldsmith. Set on the Mexican Pacific coast near Careyes Cuixmala is a special place. The land is dotted with  villas , casitas and bungalows all in different locations and sizes.

With an incredible range of activities from horse riding, mountain biking , tennis , volley ball , kayaking, fishing , surfing to name just a few. The most interesting is that Cuixmala is set on nature reserve , home to 270 types of birds, wild boar , deer , foxes , crocodiles and the endangered Jaguar. Not to leave out the Zebras and the Turtle Protection Programme, the giant sea turtle comes to lay their eggs every year were the staff gathered them to protect them from predators and poachers until they hatch and then are returned to the sea. Guests are able to assist with the guidance of biologists, have look at the wonderful Eco Cuixmala Foundation Website for more information.

There is also a club house and a boutique and of course spa services. At Cuixmala you can rent individual rooms at the various locations or rent the whole estate for a big party or wedding. How amazing would that be.

So wish I was there right now, missing the sun and nature.

Que padre x

www.cuixmala.com

www.ecocuixmala.org

All photos via Cuixmala

Happy Winter Solstice

"In the depth of Winter, I finally learned that within me lay an an invincible Summer"

Albert Camus           

Winter Solstice occurs in the Northern Hemisphere between the 21st-22nd of December depending on your time zone. This is officially the first day of Winter, it happens when the North Pole tilts 23.5 degrees away from the sun, it is the longest night of the year. On a very good note, after this event the days will slowly get longer until the Summer Solstice!

Pictures via National Geographic, Flickr, Tumblr and Pinterest,

Let The Music Play

Edition10 Headphones via Ultrasone

Edition8 Headphones via Ultrasone

Organic Harmony Sculpture Speaker via Shape Audio

Momentum Monoblock Amplifier via D'Agostino

Soprano Music Maestro Trunk via Pinel et Pinel

JAMBOX Wireless Speaker Big Sound Small Package via Jawbone

Sovereign MKII Turntable via Origin Live

Bight Stingray Earphones via Molami

BeoLab 5 Speakers via Bang & Olufsen.

CrystalDock via Calypso Crystal

Krystaline Niagara Glass Speakers via Waterfall Audio

Shagreen I-Case Music On The Run via Pinel et Pinel

Megaphone Speakers via en&is

Pleat Black & Gold Napa Leather Headphones via Molami

Eklipse Music Multi System via Sonoro

Endorphin CD Player via Pathos Acoustics

Yes that is a real size iPod! iNuke Boom via Behringer. 10,000 Watts weighing 700 pounds. Now that's what I call an iPod dock!

Happy Listening! xo

Food is Art

Pictures via Daft Punk, Fulvio Bonavia and Trendland

Wear it , Eat it , Smell it , Enjoy it xo

Murray Fredericks

" The Photography is not a documentary, I don't even call it landscapes as such. It's about space, it's about the mind's relationship to emptiness and a visual representations of that" Murray Fredericks

 Australian born Murray Fredericks is no ordinary photographer, he sets of on solo journeys to remote locations for weeks at a time, with only the horizon line as his point of reference, using time-lapse sequences to shoot these surreal and magical images.

He deliberately avoids any animal, natural or human features that would give his work a sense of scale to his pictures. His work connects you to earth and draws your vision to infinity, solitude and fortitude, it is yet very human and otherworldly at the same time.

Whether shooting in Lake Eyre Australia or a remote glacial vastness of Greenland, both with constantly changing weather, storms, rain, Aurora Borelis , the Sun, the Stars and the Moon are what keeps him company.

Watch the Salt Documentary a fascinating look into his journey that the final product speaks volumes of. I encountered his work in London Hamilton's Gallery Murray's where owner Tim Jeffrey's had hosted his first solo UK exhibition, I was so enchanted that I bought a piece on the spot, not something I have ever done, but oh so worth it, I stare at the beautiful horizon everyday and it brings me a sense of peace and lightness.

Click on the Short TimeLapse sequence called Iridium it is mesmerizing, he also has been featured in National Geographic and his works sit in the private collection of Elton John,Valentino and National Portrait Gallery amongst many others.

www.murrayfredericks.com.au/projects/salt/video/Iridium_733.webm

www.murrayfredericks.com.au

To buy or view his work contact Hamiltons Gallery his representative in London,

www.hamiltonsgallery.com

Hassan Hajjaj

I fell in Love with Morocco when I went on holiday as a child to Tangiers, the mysterious and exotic fragrances filled my young senses, the colours , hustle and bustle, charming people and food stayed with me forever. I always have a soft spot for artisans from that region and one of these has caught my imagination.

A mix of Andy Warhol and North African sense of humour with streetstyle makes Hassan Hajjaj's work unique and wonderful. Born in Larache Morocco in the 60's and moved to London in the 1970's were he found his creativity of mixing his North African vibe with the western world.

Hassan has an incredible amount of talents photographer, artist , furniture designer, think recycled tables out of street signs, fashion and the list goes on.He has decorated Riad Yima in Marrakesh and the hilariously named  Andy Wahloo in Paris owned by Mourad Mazouz of Momo's and Sketch in London who is a big supporter of unique talent and thanks to him I discovered Hassan's work.

If you are in London you can see one of Hassan's pieces in Harrods were at the moment there is a pop up exhibition called Inspiring Morocco or go to his studio in East London.

Click below to Play Thé a La Menthe by La Caution.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_detailpage&v=crrKWEVetUM

www.hassanhajjaj.com

www.riadyima.com

www.momoresto.com/restaurant/paris/andy-wahloo/about/

A Wally Of A Dream

"A man is never Lost at Sea " Ernest Hemingway

Darkness has set in here in England, and am craving the sun and the sea like crazy, for me there is nothing like that first dip in the ocean after cold winter months. As I live in London I try and escape by looking at images of islands , beaches and boats. I stumbled on this incredible image of  the sea and in it this unique beauty of a  power boat, what was it? The razor sharp perfect lines looked it had come from the future , am usually more old school but this boat has soul and spectacular craftsmanship.

Luca Bassani Antivari  a man with 40 years of sailing experience created his masterpiece when he could not find a boat that fit into all his requirements, so he decided to craft his dream into a reality. Combining his passion for design, performence and his passion for the sea Wally Boats was born. Whether its a speed power boat, a sailing boat or a yacht the Wally World of boats are innovative and intriguing.

Wally has a project in collaboration with Hermes called the WHY, is it boat, an island, a house on the sea? I think its all of them, what genius!!  The Wally Company are also famous for their phenomenal racing engineering , in the summer they stage more than 30 races called FT Wally Grand Prix Series. At the moment some of their boats are taking part in the Transatlantic Maxi Yacht Regatta from Tenerife to Virgin Gorda.

Wally Designs are the two time winners of The Compasso D'Oro the world's most prestigious prize fro industrial design.  

Luca Bassani Antivari followed his vision and turned into a reality and boy am I glad he did, Would be perfect in a Bond movie. 

Have a look at the website there are so many choices to look at, more technical information for those who want it and a lot of interesting projects.

Ship Ahoy! xo    

All Images via  www.wally.com                 

The Splendor of Motu Tane

" Never before had I seen waters the color of the rainbow or like fireworks, springing right out of some maddened imagination, or from Gaugin's own palette. Waters the color of bronze, of copper, gold, silver, mother-of-pearl, pearl, jade, emeralds, moonlight or the aurora borealis. The stars themselves seemed to have fallen to the sea, scintillating brilliantly on the lagoon's surface, in bright sunlight, who could find the right words,what poet images,what painter even colors , to describe the scene? I give up."

Paul Emile Victor, a French Explorer's impression on seeing Bora Bora for the first time from the cockpit of an airplane in 1958. He retired to Bora Bora and lived in Motu Tane.

Motu Tane island lies across the channel from Bora Bora, owned by renowned french make-up artist François Nars with interiors by Christian Liagre. This stunning island can accommodate up to 20 guests and is rented to only one party of guests at a time.

The island has all that you would expect, a chef to cook divine and fresh meals, in the garden under hundreds of coconut tress, beach barbeque's, torch-lit dinners and Tahitian feasts with those incredible dance groups. Snorkeling the crystal clear waters to discover the phenomenal array of colors, local massages with the unforgettable fragrance of Monoi oil, paddle board, windsurf and even for those who can't bear to live without there is a gym and flat screen tv's in the rooms.

From the pictures you can just use your imagination on how unforgettable this place would be. I would just stare at the the beauty all day long, swim,eat, sleep and have a big perma smile all day and night. One on my list of places to see, still have not done Polynesia and this would be just perfect, anyone interested in renting it? The only shock is the price but understandably, its a trip of a lifetime, see the website for more info.

Bon Voyage xo

Resources,

www.motutaneisland.com

www.narscosmetics.com

www.vogue.com

Happy Thanksgiving

Autumn Via Flickr

Turkey Spread via Country Living

Autumn Wreath via lost the credit.

Cheese Twirls and Wine via Martha Stewart

Autumn Decor Via Pottery Barn

Thanksgiving Rustic Decor via Lost the credit again.

Gilded Pears via Martha Stewart Living

Warm Spiced Cider via Country Living

Autumn Flower Bouquet via Project Wedding

Suzani Table Linens via Pottery Barn

Harvest Tablescape via Martha Stewart Living

Rustic Bar via Project Wedding

Nutty Name Settings via Martha Stewart living

Turner Falls Massachusetts

Berry Red Tablescape via Country Living

Petrus via Petrus

Blue and Gold via Martha Stewart Living

Rustic Chic via Elle Decor

Roasted Marshmallows via Slim Paley

Grape Decor via Martha Stewart

Fall Decor via Preston Bailey

Happy Thanksgiving America, love this holiday, the food , colours , wine and if you are lucky a nice fireplace, keep cosy. Enjoy it for me here in England. xo

Dior Couture by Patrick Demarchelier

This is the book of the year! Published by Rizzoli Dior Couture photographed by Patrick Demarchelier what a perfect collaboration. These are just a few pictures that have been released. The text is written by Ingrid Sischy ex editor-in-chief of Interview Magazine and International Editor to Vanity Fair's European editions.

Hundreds of portraits in incredible gowns from the entire era of Christian Dior Haute Couture designed by Dior ,Yves Saint Laurent , Marc Bohan and John Galliano. Shot all over the world with some of the greatest models.

Fashion History that should be on everyone's coffee tables , a perfect Christmas gift! C'est Magnifique

Order from Amazon

www.demarchelier.net

The Creative Duo Anndra Neen

Annette and Phoebe Stephens of Anndra Neen Via Dossier Journal

Anndra Neen Collection via Fallow

Coral Necklace via Couturelab London

Hiroshi Suzuki via Adrian Sassoon London

Shell Choker via Couturelab London

 Pieces by Modernist Jeweller Art Smith 1917-1982

Anndra Neen Birdcage Brass & Alpaca via Milk Made

Tequila Shot Spiking The Sun via Chris Knight

Anndra Neen Clutch via Fallow

Aztec Inspired Patters at Balmain

Trojan Horse Anndra Neen Show

Anndra Neen Telescope via Shop Grey Area

Hiroshi Suzuki via Adrian Sassoon

Anndra Neen Cage 2

Andraa Neen via Erin Jeen

Pre- Colombian Nose Ring

On my Birthday I received a beautiful piece from Anndra Neen,  I wear all the time and get so many compliments.I had seen the pieces before and really admired them, there is a native and modern feel about them which marry together exceptionally well.

You can see their influences of their own culture, the Beautiful and stylish Sisters Annette and Phoebe Stephens were born and raised in Mexico City where they have their pieces made in their workshop by artisans , Mexico is known for its ancient craftsmanship especially in silver, but these pieces are not made out of sterling silver which would weigh a ton and be extremely expensive, Anndra Neen collection is made of Alpaca a alloy metal that is coated in silver , it is light but yet has substance and has a beautiful finish to it. So much better than feeling like you have a ton of bricks around your neck.

The sisters have a very mixed and creative cultural family , their grandmother was a well known artist and their grandfather was a avant-garde composer, so they grew up a home filled with creative people. The influence of these collections come from all their travels especially Japan where their idea was born into fruition, the Japanese are gifted with creating incredible work with silver, but you can also see their inspiration of Pre-Colombian , Tribal , French Medieval Armour and Modernist jewellery as I have shown in some of the pictures.

Keep it up ladies and Viva Mexico  xo

You can buy Anndra Neen at www.couturelab.com which based out of London and ships worldwide.