Exquisite May 2017

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DesirablesWAtches 

LONGINES 

Official timekeeper 

for Gold Coast 2018 

Commonwealth Games 

www.longines.com 

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desirablesCOGNAC 

PROFESSIONAL 3 VG COLLECTION 

– FULL OF COLORS 

WHERE WILL YOUR VOYAGE TAKE YOU 

Begin your voyage with the Professional 3 VG. A voyage is not a trip or a 

vacation. It is a process of self-discovery, showing us not only the world but how 

we fit within it. The Professional 3 VG frame is carved from solid aluminum and 

then finished with an anodized coating fit for the most demanding journey. Large 

sapphire crystal plates and sapphire buttons are precision inset into the body. 

The battery cover is machine engraved with the heritage Mobiado signature and 

the corners of the body are reinforced with golden brackets. 

Professional 3 VG - Rubis 

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EXQUISITE | 3

desirablesCARS 

20 years on from the birth of its segment, the archetypal compact roadster is to be 

relaunched with a new name – the SLC – significantly optimised technology and an 

enhanced look. The name change acknowledges the traditionally close relationship with 

the C-Class, from which much of the roadster’s technology is derived. There are new 

additions to the model line-up – the sporty top-of-the-line Mercedes-AMG SLC 43 and the 

entry-level SLC 180. In visual terms, stand-out features include the standard-fit diamond 

radiator grille and the LED Intelligent Light System (optional extra). 

MERCEDES-BENZ 

The new SLC has an impressive heritage to live up to 

Its predecessor, the SLK, which was launched in 1996, won fans around the world and 

achieved sales of around 670,000 units. Comprehensively refined and with a model lineup 

ranging from the high-torque and economical SLC 200 to the sporty, high-performance 

Mercedes-AMG SLC 43, the new model has what it takes to build on that success. The 

SLC 180, SLC 200, SLC 300 and SLC 43 feature the sport/comfort-oriented 9G-TRONIC 

automatic transmission as standard. 

Driving Performance is the AMG brand promise - and the Mercedes-AMG SLC 43 lives up 

to it in impressive style. The new model combines a 270 kW (367 hp), 520 Nm, 3.0-litre 

V6 biturbo engine with a modified version of the AMG sports suspension familiar from 

the Mercedes-AMG SLK 55, and the combination is reflected in the sporty performance 

figures, with the SLC 43 accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.7 seconds. More at: 

www.mercedes-benz.com.sg 

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EXQUISITE | 5

Have fun 

on the job 

Some of the most successful creative people I know 

from writers to architects to musicians – have fun on 

the job. You cannot be successful at what you do if 

you do not have fun, they claim. Once the fire dies out 

and it starts becoming a chore, forcing yourself to wake up and 

dreading work, it’s time to change your profession and life. 

Take Paula O’Callaghan, who is on our cover, for example. 

She is a highly sought-after interior designer at Hirsch Bedner 

Associates – and always remembers what her mentor advised 

when she started out as a young fledgeling: 

“If you are in this business just for the money, get out now and 

become a banker or a lawyer. Design should be fun, never a 

chore! Have fun and be passionate about what you do, and you 

will go far here.” 

CAROL KRAAL 

Editor 

PUBLISHER 

Eren Zheng 

eren@euplus.com.sg 

EDITOR 

Carol Kraal 

carol@euplus.com.sg 

WRITERS 

Carissa Cheng 

Lim Hui Ling 

Rael Yip 

Celeste Cheng 

Wong Yen San 

Susanna Ping 

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS 

Anitha Reku 

Remus Kwok 

J. Song 

VIDEOGRAPHER 

Lim Jing Ri 

PHOTOGRAPHER 

Lim Wei Xiang 

Hongray Photography 

Make-up artist 

Michelle Gait 

ADVERTISING & 

MARKETING 

Elice Kwok (Sales Director) 

elice@euplus.com.sg 

ENQUIRIES SALES 

sales@euplus.com.sg 

For Editorial matters, please direct 

your enquiries to 

enquiries@euplus.com.sg 

ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER 

Neeta Sachdev 

PUBLISHED BI-MONTHLY BY 

EuPlus Pte Ltd 

16 Shaw Road 

#04-07 Kin Building 

Singapore 367954 

Tel: 6282 1287 

Fax: 6282 0687 

sales@euplus.com.sg 

www.euplus.com 

Send all letters to the editorial department at 

enquiries@euplus.com.sg 

MICA (P) 001/09/2015 

ISSN: 1793-5604 

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All rights reserved. Opinions and advertisements produced in the publication 

are solely those of the contributors and advertisers. EuPlus Pte Ltd is not liable 

for any mistake, error, omission and misprint. 

Exquisite Life and Exquisite Food & Wine are high-end lifestyle magazines 

with a circulation of 20,000 which is distributed to landed properties in 

Singapore.The bi-monthly publication has topics which include food, 

education, spas, personalities, travel, home décor and special features. 

Full page photography and graphics create an aesthetic and professional 

outlook. 

Contests with prizes enhance our relationship with readers while giving 

advertisers the chance to gather statistics and important data. 

6 | EXQUISITE

CONTENTS 

FEATURE 

32 A Chat with PAULA O’CALLAGHAN 

06 EDITOR’S NOTE 

STYLE 

14 BOVET 1822 

16 RJ-ROMAIN JEROME 

18 MB&F 

20 HUBLOT 

22 FENDI 

24 ROLLS-ROYCE 

26 PORSCHE 

28 POH SENG 

NEW CERCA TROVA COLLECTIONS 

30 THOMAS SABO 

PERSONALITY 

38 It All Depends on the End 

Industrial designer NAOTO FUKASAWA talks 

about the purpose of design 

42 IWC SCHAFFHAUSEN TALKS TO: 

SIR PATRICK STEWART 

44 Hublot 

Haute Cuisine Fusion: Andreas Caminada is 

the new chef in the Hublot brigade 

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CONTENTS 

STYLE 

46 DIOR 

48 FENDI 

49 Carrera 

50 BALLY WOMEN’S RESORT 2017 COLLECTION 

52 Chloé 

64 PRADA 

68 SHANGHAI TANG 

EVENTS 

76 Strong Art Performance 

80 Rediscovering the Bon Experience: 

Beyond Singapore 

WELLNESS 

86 creating a healthy, strong and inspired 

singapore 

88 BURBERRY London, England 

90 BEST BETS 

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travel 

92 BREATHLESSLY ELEGANT IN 

LUXURY 

94 Luxury on the Beach 

98 Sail the Indonesian 

Archipelago in Style 

102 SINGAPORE HIGHEST 

VISA-FREE ACCESS 

DESIGN 

106 UP IN THE TREES 

112 Chainsaw Creations 

114 Layers of Design 

Excellence 

CONTENTS 

FOOD & WINE 

118 A True Artisan 

Philosophy 

120 WHITEGRASS 

122 RAVING ABOUT 

RANGPUR GIN 

124 MONTI – JAZZ WITH A VIEW 

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DESIRABLEStimepieces 

BOVET 1822 

Celebrating the Year of the Rooster 

BOVET 1822 has created two unique timepieces for the Year 

of the Rooster. The magnificent paintings adorn the motherof-pearl 

dial of the Monsieur BOVET in the two new unique 

pieces: one 18K red gold timepiece and one 18K white gold 

timepiece. 

The reversible Amadeo Fleurier convertible case system 

enables the wearer to enjoy the symmetry and mechanical 

wonder of its 7-day hand-wound movement on its reverse 

side. The striking Swiss-made timepiece is equipped with a 

power-reserve indicator and reversed hand-fitting. The Year of 

the Rooster timepieces are the latest edition of Chinese zodiac 

inspired timepieces released by BOVET, which has become a 

much-anticipated yearly release by collectors around the world. 

www.bovet.com 

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DesirablesJEWELLERY 

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RJ-ROMAIN JEROME 

THE DEEP BLUE OCTOPUS 

Undeniably the most steampunk-like sea 

animal, RJ-Romain Jerome is dedicating 

its latest collection to the octopus, a 

fascinating marine creature from the 

collective imagination. 

With this 25-piece limited edition, the 

Swiss watchmaking Maison introduces 

a truly marine and highly crafted 

timepiece, the Deep Blue Octopus, 

incorporating all characteristics and 

aesthetical features of the animal with a 

meticulous care devoted to each detail 

The timepiece has also been built 

around the number eight to recall the 

8 legs of the Octopus: there are 8 head 

screws on the case, 8 screws holding 

the case back as well as 8 rivets on 

each crown. And finally, the Deep Blue 

Octopus is water resistant down to 888 

feet to explore the seabed. To finish 

off this Octopus infused timepiece, the 

bezel is a reminder that this collection 

rightly belongs to RJ’s SEA universe. 

The Hour Glass is the exclusive retailer 

of RJ-Romain Jerome in Singapore. 

www.romainjerome.ch 

“The timepiece has also 

been built around the 

number eight to recall the 

8 legs of the Octopus.” 

16 | EXQUISITE

Jan 2016.pdf 1 4/1/16 3:35 PM


MB&F 

Legacy Machine Perpetual - reinventing the perpetual calendar 

The MB&F Legacy Machine Perpetual recently won a GRAND 

PRIX D’HORLOGERIE DE GENEVE – the most prestigious, 

coveted prize in the watchmaking world. The award was 

the result of a long and merciless selection process by a 

respected international jury, which first considered more 

than a dozen calendar watches, then nominated a shortlist of 

just 6 outstanding finalists, and finally awarded us with their 

highest distinction. 

As such, MB&F has launched TWO NEW EDITIONS of the 

Legacy Machine Perpetual in 18K WHITE GOLD. After last 

year’s launch editions in platinum and rose gold, both 

limited to 25 pieces and sold out within just a few months, 

MB&F is introducing a new 25-piece limited edition in white 

gold – instantly recognisable thanks to its striking purple face 

– as well as a non-limited edition, also in white gold, with a 

more understated dark grey face. 

Among other innovations, the Legacy Machine Perpetual 

movement is based on a default month of 28 days – 

instead of the usual 31 – and is controlled by a patented 

“mechanical processor” which adds days only as required. 

The result is a robust, fool-proof mechanism that is 

also extremely user-friendly, allowing quick and easy 

adjustments. 

Legacy Machine Perpetual is available in three limited 

editions of 25 pieces each in platinum 950 (blue face), 

18k red gold (grey face) and 18k white gold (purple face); 

and in a non-limited edition in 18k white gold with grey 

face. The Hour Glass is the exclusive retailer of MB&F in 

Singapore. 

The Legacy Machine Perpetual retails at S$242,300. 

www.mbandf.com 

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CS Travel is an established 

Travel Agency that primarily 

provides Worldwide Travel Packages 

CS Travel caters a variety of travel packages to ASEAN, Asia ( Japan, Korea, Taiwan, China etc.), USA, 

Europe, Australia, New Zealand and other exotic countries. With customer service in high regard, 

CS Travel’s experienced operators pride themselves in providing the best service for customers. 

We provide incentive and custom-made tour group packages along with reasonable, competitive and 

value for money tour packages. Pay less for the same quality tour. 

10/11/12 Days 

WINTER SANTA 

CLAUS LAPLAND 

6/8 Days 

WINTER OR 

ROMANTIC KOREA + 

JEJU ISLAND 

1 x Snowmobile adventures 

Santa Claus Village 

Crossing Artic Circle certificate 

Campfire Snacks 

• Aurora Borealis** • Snow Igloo visit** 

Visit reindeer farm with Lappish Lunch 

• Special visit to Tallinn ~ Capital of Estonia 

• Visit Husky farm to enjoy 2KM sledge • Upgrade to Glass Igloo* 

More Departure Date: From Now – December 2017 

Nanta Show Entrance ticket 

Hot Spring Experience 

Basic Skiing Equipment provided* 

Hanbok Wearing 

• Lotte World or Everland Theme Park Day pass 


10/13/15 Days 

EASTERN EUROPE 

DISCOVERY 

(CZECH REPUBLIC / POLAND / 

HUNGARY / SLOVAKIA / 

AUSTRIA / GERMANY) 

7/8 Days 

HOKKAIDO TOUR 

• 100% Meals provided 

• Entrance ticket to Wieliczka Salt Mine* 

• Hungarian Folklore Show & Dinner with Wine 


VALUE 

For 

MONEY 

One Day Free and Easy 

Otaru Canal 

Free upgrade to Hot Spring Hotel 

Beer Factory 

Tanukikoji Shopping Street 

• Mitsui Outlet Park Sapporo Kita-Hiroshima 


7/8 Days 

CHARMING 

TAIWAN 

5/6/7/8 Days 

SYDNEY / 

MELBOURNE / 

PERTH / GOLD 

GOAST 

Stay in City central Hotel 

Hot Spring Experience 

Night Markets and Eating Streets 

• Leisure Farm Stay* 


Return Air ticket 

SIC Airport Transfer between Airport – Hotel - Airport 

Accommodations with breakfast 

• City Tour and Attraction ticket as per itinerary 

More Departure Date: Daily Departure 2 to go packages 

*T&C Apply *Photos for Illustration only 

Main Office: 

133 New Bridge Road #03-09/10 Chinatown Point Singapore 059413 

Email: enquiry@cstravel.com.sg Website: www.cstravel.com.sg 

CUSTOMER CARE HOTLINE: 

+65 6534 1188 

at your service, always!


HUBLOT 

SPIRIT OF BIG BANG MOONPHASE 

Hublot’s love of colour infuses the Spirit of Big Bang 

Moonphase with four new models in shades of blue, 

purple, orange and pink. Matching strap, quartz dial, sandblasted 

moon phase disc, hands, indices and stone-set bezel 

all set the tone of this vivid monochrome collection. Inside 

the iconic 42mm tonneau case, beneath its sapphire 

crystal, the openworked architecture of the HUB1770 

hand-wound skeleton movement is enhanced by a quartz 

dial made from silicon dioxide (SiO2) and aluminium oxide 

(AI2O3) melted at high temperature. 

The quartz is coloured by the addition of a mixture of 

“rare earth elements”. With a hardness of 7 on the 

Mohs scale, the dial requires specific cutting technology. 

Accentuating the piece’s impression of depth and 

geometry, the Spirit of Big Bang Moonphase alternates 

polished, satin-finished titanium or King Gold with coloured 

flat surfaces. Its bezel is set with 48 blue, orange or 

pink sapphires, or amethysts. The strap, in alligator 

stitched onto natural black rubber, perfectly matches the 

four colours of the watch. Water-resistant to 100 metres, 

the Spirit of Big Bang Moonphase has a power reserve 

of 50 hours. 

www.hublot.com 

20 | EXQUISITE

Styleeyewear 

Fendi 

Fall Winter 2017/18 

US singer Caroline Vreeland wearing Fendi CAN EYE sunglasses (FF 0259/S) at 

Fendi FW17/18 Women’s Fashion Show in Milan 

www.fendi.com 

22 | EXQUISITE

GOOD 

HEALTH 

STARTS 

WITH 

HUROM 

HUROM AMBASSADOR 

韩星李英愛 

LEE YOUNG AE 

Utilising the latest patented slow juicing technology, this second 

generation Hurom Slow Juicer H-AA2600 spins at 43 rotations per 

minute (RPM) - making it the slowest rotation juicer in the market 

- to produce the healthiest juice closest to what nature has to offer. 

Efficiency is not compromised, as Hurom uses a redesigned double 

-winged auger that’s a cut above the competitor’s single winged one. 

lt is better at pulp separation, resulting in less damage to the produce 

and less oxidation. The juicer also comes with on additional coarse strainer 

for making smoothies, organic tofu and jam. 

A recipient of the prestigious iF Design Award 2015, the Hurom Slow 

Juicer H-AA2600 is made in Korea. 

10 

YEARS 

AC MOTOR 

WARRANTY 

MODEL 

HUROM H-AA2600 

GLOBAL LEADER IN JUICING SOLUTIONS SINCE 1974 

Exclusive Distributor: Modern Link Pte Ltd Tel: 6289 6515 

Available in major departmental stores 

www.hurom.com.sg


ROLLS-ROYCE 

Black Badge makes debut in Southeast Asia 

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars brought a bolder and edgier 

presence to the 38th Bangkok International Motor Show as 

it showcased its most powerful model, the 624bhp, 870Nm 

twin-turbocharged V12 Wraith Black Badge for the first time in 

Southeast Asia. 

An alter-ego for a new breed of 

customer 

Black Badge is an attitude to life, a new aspect of the 

Rolls-Royce brand that appeals to people who are elusive 

and defiant, the risk takers and disruptors who break the 

rules and laugh in the face of convention. 

Technically and aesthetically, Black Badge is the alter ego 

of Rolls-Royce: darker, more assertive, more confident 

and powerful, and more demanding. Wraith Black Badge, 

the most powerful expression of this new ethos, made 

its first public appearance in Southeast Asia at the 38th 

Bangkok International Motor Show 2017. 

www.rolls-roycemotorcars.com 

“The 624bhp, 870Nm 

twin-turbocharged V12 

Wraith Black Badge 

is Rolls-Royce’ most 

powerful model.” 

24 | EXQUISITE 

EXQUISITE | 25


Porsche has introduced the new Cayenne Platinum Edition in Singapore. 

Easily recognisable at first glance by their distinctively sporty appearance, 

this new limited-run series feature an extensive range of options at a 

highly attractive price package. Three variants are available—the Cayenne 

Platinum Edition, Cayenne Diesel Platinum Edition, and Cayenne S E-Hybrid 

Platinum Edition. 

The special edition models come with an expanded selection of standard 

features to improve comfort and safety in particular. For example, standard 

equipment in the Cayenne Platinum Edition includes Power Steering Plus 

and Bi-Xenon headlights with the Porsche Dynamic Light System (PDLS). 

PORSCHE 

The new Cayenne Platinum Edition 

As with all Porsche models, non-metallic black and white exterior paint 

colours come at no additional cost, with Deep Black, Mahogany, Carrara 

White and Rhodium Silver metallic paints available as an option along with 

a special shade - Purpurite Metallic. The broadened wheel arches also come 

in the chosen colour scheme. The athletic appearance of this exclusive 

model is further highlighted by a Black high-gloss exterior package. 

www.porsche.com 

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EXQUISITE | 5

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DesirablesJEWELLERY 

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Desirablesstyle 

“The new Rebel at 

Heart collection 

contains many fierce, 

strong designs that 

carry meaningful 

messages.” 

THOMAS SABO’s recent Collection highlighted 

its strong cultural and graphical influences, 

empowered by the overall message 

of ‘together’. Every jewellery item uniquely 

represents an intimate feeling of happiness 

and love. 

Key highlight of the new collection is the 

Glam & Soul range, which was inspired by 

the vibrant culture of Africa. The design 

language interpreted the patterns of the 

continent, with the usage of earthy and 

warm colour tones. Other sources of inspiration 

for Glam & Soul include the ocean, 

mandalas and the concept of minimalism. 

With each piece embellished with faceted 

diamonds, the inspirations behind the collection 

are exquisitely expressed. 

The new Rebel at Heart collection contains 

many fierce, strong designs that carry meaningful 

messages. The new power bracelets 

are true XXL statements, inspired by the 

iconic Buddhist prayer bracelet. Graphic 

abstract designs and the usage of symbols 

for strength, healing powers and emotional 

development are the main focus of the 

Maori-influenced collection. 

A new range of colourful glass Karma Beads 

are produced by hand, making each bead 

unique and special. The signature skull, one 

of the most iconic design codes of THOMAS 

SABO, has been reinterpreted in a minimalistic 

manner, with each skull embellished 

with filigree, faceted diamonds. 

www.thomassabo.com 

THOMAS SABO 

A Collection inspired by cultural influences 


EXQUISITE | 31

COVERFEATURE 

The whole point of travel, even on business, is to experience the cultural soul of the place. 

That begins with your hotel – its design, spaces and ambience. 

While ethnic style may seem primitive to some, local traditions represent who we are today. 

Architecture and interior design that use ethnic elements connect a site’s past to the present 

while respecting its spirit and history. 

One of the most sought-after interior designers in the hospitality sector is Paula O’Callaghan, a 

senior associate at Hirsch Bedner Associates (HBA). Transforming hotel and resort spaces into 

elegant ethnic havens is a large part of the American’s expertise, requiring lots of research; 

listening to locals’ views, and observing their arts and customs. 

Based in Singapore, Paula’s extensive living and working experience around the world makes her 

a culturally sensitive designer, ideally atuned to the many challenges that working on international 

projects present. Having an arts background coupled with an architecturally-oriented design 

education, Paula has the unique capability of working in both the decorative and technical aspects 

of a project. 

Some of her high-profile hotel, new-build, renovation and historic restoration projects include 

the Ritz-Carlton San Francisco, Marriott Copenhagen, Ritz-Carlton Jakarta, Fairmont Peace Hotel 

Shanghai, and Waldorf Astoria Shanghai. 

Two projects of ethnic beauty include: 

Siam Kempinski Bangkok, Thailand – Designed around its historical site as royal lotus 

gardens, it exudes comfort and modern Thai beauty amidst the bustle of Bangkok. 

Jiang-Nan Chun restaurant, Four Seasons Singapore – Inspired by the verdant land south 

of the Yangtze, the longest river in China, and the culturally rich lifestyle of the people living there. 

The carpet, the richly handcrafted carved millwork accents, a flock of plump ceramic songbirds 

and the fish net light fixtures capture the colours and energy of the natural elements that define 

this land and its culture. 

It takes a lot of experience, expertise, passion and hardwork to complete such high-level design 

projects the way Paula O’Callaghan does with such dazzling success. 

It also takes a lot of energy. Being a passionate foodie helps. 

ETHNIC 

“Design should be fun, 

never a chore! Have 

fun and be passionate 

about what you do, 

and you will go far...” 

— Paula O’Callaghan, senior associate, Hirsch Bedner 

Associates; one of the most sought-after interior 

designers in the high-end hospitality sector. 

EXPERIENCES 

Paula O’Callaghan designs beautiful hospitality spaces that 

exude cultural authenticity and luxury 

Writers Sara Graav (Architectural & Design Consultant) and Carol Kraal delve into 

the creative mind of one of the world’s most respected interior designers 


EXQUISITE | 33

COVERFEATURE 

A CHAT WITH PAULA O’CALLAGHAN, 

SENIOR ASSOCIATE, Hirsch Bedner Associates 

On Siam Kempinski, Bangkok, Thailand: 

In what way does Siam Kempiniski Hotel, 

Bangkok, Thailand, represent the natural 

beauty of Thailand? 

I would say the “natural beauty” of Thailand lies not only in 

its lush, tropical geography, but in its diverse and rich culture. 

The Thais have a high regard to arts, culture and ceremony, 

expressed in almost every manner of daily living. From a 

humble but exquisitely delicious roadside meal of khao lao to 

the majestic nagas perched upon their temple rooftops, there 

is an acknowledgment and care ingrained within Thai culture 

towards the beauty in life, be it natural or man-made. It is this 

essence of Thai “natural beauty” that is celebrated in the design 

of the Siam Kempinski. The hotel sits upon former royal lotus 

gardens. 

On Jiang-Nan Chun restaurant, Four Seasons Singapore: 

How long was the design process – seeing 

that it has rich ethnic elements? 

The whole process from start to final installation was about 

8-9 months. We had about two weeks to pull together the 

concept story and about another two/three weeks for the actual 

schematic design development and re-planning, followed by 

a few weeks for design documentation. Thereafter, the design 

was further refined in collaboration with the contractor (Intek) 

through shopdrawing, and material/prototype reviews. Some 

of the details, such as the carved panels, could not be drawn 

or documented traditionally, as they are meant to appear like 

genuine, handcrafted, “found” elements. For these, we had to 

work closely with the contractor who sourced them in China. 

On designing ethnic projects – 

“Do your research 

and do not be afraid 

to bounce ideas off of 

people who are of that 

particular ethnicity or 

culture to see what 

their perception of 

your idea is.” 

HBA was asked to create an interior that paid homage to this 

legacy but reflected in a modern and sophisticated manner. You 

will note many of the carpet patterns and artwork in this hotel 

are inspired by the lotus, along with the purple and chartreuse 

colour scheme. Centrally located water features symbolise the 

lotus ponds, their stepped forms recalling the unique features 

of a temple roof. A nod to Thai high culture and ceremony is 

also made with the appearance of the sinewy, metal-filigree 

wall sconces that line the marbled halls of the public areas, 

recalling the delicate jewelled finger accessories worn by 

apsara dancers. 

How do you engage the botanical garden 

around the hotel in the design? 

Inspired by the property’s history as a royal lotus garden, 

BBGM’s architectural concept for this property was based upon 

an “urban oasis” which fully engages with a landscaped zone 

with low-rise guestroom wings that encompass a centrally 

located pool deck and lush garden. This allows the orientation 

of the architecture away from the surrounding urban bustle of 

Bangkok, creating an insular, peaceful experience. One wing 

features direct guestroom access into the swimming pool from 

the ground floor balcony. Inset seating pods dot the pool and 

garden, with a sala bar anchoring the garden and pool. HBA’s 

exterior scope was purely decorative, to soften a rather austere 

architectural surround with the same stylistic elements as 

within the hotel interior. 

Did you add any of your personality to the 

design? 

Since the design really follows a strong, nostalgic story line of 

rural China, any personality of me or of my design team within 

it is rather subtle. I guess the transitional style of the decoration 

does somewhat align with my personal design sense, but I 

am also quite a sentimental type of person too. This may have 

contributed to conceiving the idea of celebrating a nostalgic 

“memory” of China in the space and the design motifs 

associated with it. The ceramic birds perched upon the lattice, 

for example, remind me of the provincial fields in which I used 

to play in Spain as a young child, where birds would often 

appear as guests in my make-shift fig “treehouse”. 

On interior design: 

Can you give design tips to architecture and 

interior students on how to approach an 

ethnic and culture-rich project without being 

cliche, jarring and predictable? 

Do your research and do not be afraid to bounce ideas off 

of people who are of that particular ethnicity or culture to 

see what their perception of your idea is. If they tell you 

something is too themed or cliche, you have to be sensitive 

enough to listen, learn and amend the design. On the Siam 

Kempinski project, I constantly sought the judgement of the 

Thai project manager and local furniture contractor during the 

numerous prototype reviews. After they realised that I was 

genuinely interested in their opinion, they openly offered their 

perspective. There were many candid, fruitful discussions on 

what elements were uniquely Thai versus Chinese, Indonesian, 

etc or simply generically “Asian”. 


EXQUISITE | 35

COVERFEATURE 

(From left to right) Michael San Pedro, Crisanto Raneses, Arlene Valdez, Melissa Peh, 

Cholatorn Jamjan, Tran Thi 

1 

How do you usually solve disagreements in 

your design team during a project? 

We rarely have disagreements within the HBA design team. Our 

projects are often very large, so we cannot afford big, primadonna 

designer egos to get in the way. We respect each other’s 

input and skill set, augmenting off of each other’s strengths to 

achieve a united vision. Anyone who is so stubborn to insist 

their idea is the only best solution to pursue typically does not 

last too long at HBA. The greater and more frequent challenge 

is actually resolving disagreements between the owner and 

the operator in their vision of the property! In such cases, HBA 

is sometimes caught in the middle, being forced to side with 

one or another. We therefore try to keep our communication as 

transparent and open as possible between both parties to avoid 

this problem. 

What advice would you give a young girl who 

wants to become a senior associate interior 

designer at a well-respected global design 

company such as HBA like you? 

The exact same nugget of wisdom that Michael Bedner (HBA 

co-founder & former chairman) gave me when I was a young 

intern at HBA San Francisco 20 years ago, yearning to become 

an HBA associate one day: 

If you are in this business just for the money, get out now and 

become a banker or a lawyer. Design should be fun, never a 

chore! Have fun and be passionate about what you do, and you 

will go far here. 

And nothing could be more true. 

2 

3 

4 

What questions would you ask to discover 

your client’s requirements? 

Most major hotel operators have very clear brand standards 

and area programme requirements, which eliminates the 

mystery of their expectations. For F&B outlets, they will often 

also have a design brief. HBA often requests for this information 

at the start of every project. For owner’s requirements, it is a 

bit different and very project-specific. On some projects, the 

owners can be very involved, as if the hotel is their personal 

home. We usually show different mood and style options to 

gauge their taste while still engaging with the operator to see if 

their taste aligns with their brand identity. On other projects, the 

owners may only be interested in the bottom line and achieving 

the highest return on their investment, in which case, we work 

very closely with the appointed hotel operator. 

As you are based in Singapore, and have 

been living here for some time what are your 

favourite local foods? 

Oh, I am such a foodie! So the list is rather long. Here are some 

of my favourite local foods: 

Chicken rice (roasted, breast cut preferred) 

Kway chap (“angmo” style – without spare parts) 

Bak ku the 

Mee siam 

Char kway teow 

Laksa (Singapore version) 

Duck rice (dry, without sauce) 

Char siew rice (dry, without sauce) 

Tsu-yok (dry – Hong Kong style with hot mustard) 

Yong tau fu (soup with beehoon) 

Popiah 

Fried beehoon 

Nasi lemak 

Chilli crab 

Roti prata 

Sardine puff (extra spicy) 

(Top) Paula’s design team at HBA; It has to be the 

Singapore version of laksa. 

(Left) Photo 1,4,5: Four Seasons Singapore’s 

Jiang-Nan Chun restaurant is inspired by the 

verdant land south of the Yangtze river in China. 

Photo 2,3,6: Siam Kempinski Bangkok is designed 

around the historical royal lotus gardens. 

www.hba.com 

Photographs courtesy of Hirsch Bedner Associates; 

laksa photo by Susanna Fong 

5 6 


EXQUISITE | 37

DesignPersonality 

It All Depends on the End 

Industrial designer Naoto Fukasawa talks about the purpose of design 

As a child, I often had the task of peeling potatoes, and I 

could never get rid of every last trace of soil on them. 

No matter how hard I tried, the potatoes were always 

still a little dirty. But as soon as I immersed them in 

water, they were clean—and suddenly became sculptures 

that fit beautifully in my hand. That’s something I have never 

forgotten. Decades later, when designing a cell phone, I 

pictured users reaching for it in their pockets. That reminded 

me of my experience with potatoes, so I deliberately chose not 

to draw aerodynamic lines. Our hands instinctively seek edges; 

they want to feel textures, to play with them or use them for 

orientation. Cars are no different in this respect, even though 

we use our eyes instead of our hands to constantly trace their 

lines and edges. It’s our way of playing with what is beautiful. 

The world of design has changed dramatically. Graphics, 

products, interior decoration, sound, film, and art influence one 

another all the time. We live in a world of walls. Between us and 

the walls are objects that we have created. The current trend is 

for these objects to wander, either toward the walls or toward 

us. The bulky television sets of the past have been replaced by 

flat screens that we hang on the walls. 

In contrast, those heavy old phones have migrated toward us 

and now nestle in our hands. Audio systems? They’ve moved 

either to the walls or to our ears. Lights, air-conditioning 

systems, refrigerators—they’ve moved closer to the walls than 

ever before. Our world is becoming cleaner, tidier, and more 

streamlined. That is a key aspect of the work of a designer. 

There are, of course, quintessential objects like tables, chairs, 

pots, and plates that will continue to be what they always were. 

A car will always remain a quintessential object. And the form 

of a Porsche is something like a quintessential form: beautifully 

orderedfrom the start, streamlined, and flawless. An oasis of 

beauty for our eyes in an overwhelming world. 

Harmonious overall picture 

The term “interface” used to refer to software and screens. 

Today, every successful product is an interface—a hinge, so to 

speak, between people and the environment. Cars have long 

had this quality, thanks to their clear purpose. As a designer, I 

spend my time observing our everyday lives. It’s the only way 

I can come up with the right results and find the forms that live 

in the culture, habits, memories, and histories that connect us. 

What I’m looking for are whimsical moments in urban life that 

arise as if by chance. They give me insight into human behavior. 

And I use them to develop products. For example, if someone 

doesn’t have a doorstop, they might use a rubber boot instead. 

This is a perfect impromptu solution—the door won’t close and 

the rubber will protect the wood. So why not create doorstops 

that look like boots? Another example: a woman stands at an 

intersection holding a shopping bag and an umbrella. The rain 

has stopped, so she leans on the umbrella and hangs the bag 

on the umbrella’s handle, but it slips off. That gave me the idea 

of making an umbrella with a groove in its handle. People carry 

solutions like these around with them all the time without giving 

them a thought. That’s why they often tell me they’ve seen my 

designs somewhere before. They haven’t, of course; I tell them 

they’ve just rediscovered them in my work. 

Once, I saw a girl sitting on a fallen tree trunk, utterly absorbed 

in reading a book. I thought to myself, “Wow! If this girl can 

be so comfortable, I should design a bench that looks like a 

tree trunk.” And this piece of furniture was indeed a success— 

although not as much as my CD player for the Muji company. 

It hangs on the wall like a ventilation system. You turn it on by 

pulling a cord. The CD spins like the blades of a fan, but emits 

music instead of air. That’s a perfect interface. The design 

blends into our world of experience, playing with associations 

like a clock, a shoelace, and a fan. It’s humorous and, of course, 

functional. 

“Once, I saw a girl sitting on a fallen tree trunk, 

utterly absorbed in reading a book. I thought to 

myself – Wow! If this girl can be so comfortable, I 

should design a bench that looks like a tree trunk.” 


EXQUISITE | 39

DesignPersonality 

“People want to touch 

things. With their hands and 

with their eyes, constantly.” 

The rear determines the character of the 

car 

If you spend too much time too close to an object, you 

won’t see its context and won’t come up with a practical 

solution. I’m not the type of product designer who starts 

by sitting down at a table and sketching, who plays with 

shapes, surfaces, and colours in an attempt to create the 

best possible result—divorced from the outside world and 

oblivious to its connections. If you work like this, you’re not 

really in the world. 

Imagine a puzzle: you’ve got a hundred individual parts 

that represent the product’s environment. But the last 

piece is missing: the product itself. If you study all of the 

pieces of the puzzle, you’ll eventually find a shape that fits 

in perfectly with all of the others. But if you ignore all of 

the others while you sketch the last fragment, how can it 

possibly fit into the overall picture? The harmony would 

be destroyed. Something similar happens with a sports 

car. Its purpose is acceleration, which is why all of its lines 

reflect its form and come together at the rear. A Porsche 

and its characteristic contours yield a rear that is as natural 

as the last piece of a puzzle fitting perfectly into the overall 

picture. The front of a car might be its face – but the rear 

determines its character. 

Naoto Fukasawa, 61, is one of the world’s 

most sought-after industrial and product 

designers 

Toasters, refrigerators, lamps, cell phones, folding chairs 

–there is hardly an object of everyday life that has not been 

reinterpreted by this Japanese designer. “People want to 

touch things,” he says. “With their hands and with their 

eyes, constantly.” 

This approach, which is the basis for all of Fukasawa’s 

designs, has won him more than 50 awards. He sees 

himself not as an artist who shapes objects, but rather as 

a designer who shapes interfaces – who influences that 

which lies between people, objects, and their environment. 

He is a professor at Tama Art University (approximately 

twelve and a half miles southwest of Tokyo) and is a 

prominent presence every year at the Salone del Mobile 

furniture fair in Milan. His design office advises companies 

throughout the world. More at: www.naotofukasawa.com 

Text first published in the Porsche customer magazine Christophorus, Nr. 380 Text by Naoto Fukasawa; 

Photos by Markus Bolsinger 

Courtesy of www.porsche.com/germany/aboutporsche/christophorusmagazine/ 


EXQUISITE | 41

Personality 

“Everybody told me that Star 

Trek would never work, and 

that I would be lucky to make it 

through the first season.” 

IWC SCHAFFHAUSEN TALKS TO: 

SIR PATRICK STEWART 

Stewart rose to worldwide fame with leading roles in Star Trek: 

The Next Generation 

These roles also included the X-Men superhero movie 

franchise. In this IWC Talks To interview, he confesses 

that as a young journalist, he used little white lies to 

attend his amateur theatre rehearsals. He also reveals 

which important person in his life planted the first seeds of his 

acting career, and why googling his name brings up news of 

Stewart coming out. 

ON STAR TREK: 

— When I was offered the role of Jean-Luc Picard, I knew 

nothing about the history of Star Trek, and I didn’t have any 

ambitions to go to Hollywood. 

— Everybody told me that Star Trek would never work, and that 

I would be lucky to make it through the first season. 

— 7 years and 178 hours of television later, I went back to a 

relatively normal, although somewhat transformed 

existence. 

ON WORKING WITH AMATEUR THEATRICAL 

COMPANIES: 

— By the time I was 16, I worked with five different amateur 

theatrical companies in my neighbourhood. 

— I put in place a rather elaborate system of journalist 

colleagues who would deputize for me at events for half a 

bottle of whisky. 

ON STUBBORN RUMOURS ON THE INTERNET: 

— When you google me, the news will either be that I am dead, 

or that I have come out. 

— My friend Ian McKellan has to carry a lot of the responsibility 

for that – most famously when I kissed him on the lips on a 

red carpet at some premiere. 

The entire interview can be viewed on the following links: 

http://www.iwc.com/en/iwc-talks-to/patrick-stewart www.youtube.com/watch?v=DSt0sLRli14 

Hashtags: #patrickstewart #jeanlucpicard #startrek:thenextgeneration #professorcharlesxavier #x-men #williamshakespeare 


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Styletimepieces 

Haute Cuisine Fusion: Andreas Caminada is the new 

chef in the Hublot brigade 

“A prodigy whose cuisine has seduced the world 

Caminada works with local produce, and grows some 

of it. His talent and culinary brilliance have absolute 

watchmaking precision.” 

To announce this new partnership CEO of Hublot, 

Ricardo Guadalupe, met renowned chef Andreas 

Caminada, in Fürstenau, Switzerland, the smallest 

village in Europe. A prodigy whose cuisine has seduced 

the world Caminada works with local produce, and grows 

some of it. His talent and culinary brilliance have absolute 

watchmaking precision. 

The Swiss chef likes simple and natural things. His awards and 

accolades are impressive: he is the youngest chef in Europe to 

have won a third Michelin star, which he did 7 years ago, and 

his 19 Gault & Millau points and stars have launched him to 

the firmament of gastronomy. He skilfully combines audacity, 

innovation and tradition. Eating at his table is like sitting down 

at the family table, so convivial is the atmosphere he cultivates. 

Andreas Caminada’s castle in Fürstenau – a small village in the 

Grisons canton – is where time appears to be standing still. 

A place that lives and breathes the ‘Swissitude’ held dear by 

the watchmaker. His castle in Fürstenau speaks volumes on 

the philosophy that preoccupies him. A building that retains 

all the assets of its history and finds new life through the 

features of its refined and highly contemporary interior. A little 

like his dishes – paced like the dial of a watch – where each 

ingredient has a specific function, each engaging with another 

to offer an explosion of unique tastes – mixing authenticity 

and innovation. The Hour Glass is proud to be the exclusive 

distributor for Hublot in Southeast Asia. 

www.hublot.com 

44 | EXQUISITE

Styleeyewear 

DIOR 

Dior(E)volution 

sunglasses offer 

a modern take on 

some iconic codes 

“Recalling the outlines 

of a mask, a small star 

placed over the gray 

lenses symbolises 

one of Christian Dior’s 

lucky charms.” 

The Dior(E)volution sunglasses revisit the pilot shape with a frame composed of a resolutely contemporary 

mix of materials, acetate and metal, in a gold or silver finish. Recalling the outlines of a mask, a small star 

placed over the gray lenses symbolises one of Christian Dior’s lucky charms. Having been hugely superstitious, 

the couturier always kept a number of talismanic objects in his pockets, with a star being among them. 

www.dior.com 


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Styleeyewear 

Styleeyewear 

Carrera 

FENDI 

The ROMA Optical Collection plays with classic shapes and 

materials combining them in a unique and surprising way 

The shapes range from modern and easy-to-wear rectangular models to cat-eye and round retroinspired 

styles, all conveying the FENDI femininity through subtle nuances and distinctive details, 

such as the iconic triangle element in metal. 

The collection includes six optical frames with international fitting and two with Asian fitting: they 

are all in full acetate with bi-layer or three-layer colour-block structure, shaping the new FENDI 

styles with a refined yet playful touch. 

The colour palette is elegant and subtle, including black, blue, red and havana, paired with the soft 

tones of pink, violet, green, azure, white. 

Each piece embodies the highest craftsmanship and savoir-faire of FENDI featuring unique 

workmanship techniques in a perfect balance between tradition and innovation, enhancing the new 

collection’s premium quality and highest functionality. 

www.fendi.com 

Kendall Jenner seen wearing Carrera 124/S sunglasses in Paris 


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Stylewomen 

PRESENT NOSTALGIA 

KARLHEINZ WEINBERGER’S SWISS REBELS 

THE JUXTAPOSED REALITY OF THE 80S “TEEN WOLF” (1985) 

EDELWEISS FLOWER ON A WESTERN SHIRT 

DISCO PLATFORMS 

AT THE GYM 

FRANCIS FORD COPPOLA’S “THE OUTSIDERS” LOOKING TO BELONG... 

DAVID HICKS BOLD COLOURS ON JAPANESE KIMONOS 

PLAYFUL ARCHIVE PRINTS COME TO LIFE... 

LEISURE SUITS FOR EVERYDAY / BALLY VIA MOUNT FUJI 

RETRO ALPINE 

RESORT MEMORIES 

OPPOSITES ATTRACT / HAPPY GRUNGE / MTV GENERATION 

Bally 

Women’s Resort 2017 

Collection 

SOUVENIR ITEMS OF NOMADIC COLLECTOR 

VARSITY JACKETS DEFY FORMALITY / 

DAIDO MORIYAMA’S GRAPHIC WORK 

SAME HISTORY/ DIFFERENT STORY 

BROKEN RULES 

BALLY REIMAGINED 

www.bally.com 


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StyleWomen 

Chloé 

Fall Winter 2017 Collection – 

For her final Chloé collection, 

Clare Waight Keller delves 

into an edgy dream world of 

psychedelic optimism 


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StyleWomen 

The Chloé Girl escapes down a rabbit hole of decades. around her, colours swirl through 

icy pastel shades of mint, peach and lilac into earthy brights like ochre, tobacco and vivid 

scarlet. 

From a broad rounded shoulder, straight cabans with bombay buttons and boxy shirt 

coats underpin the collection in brushed check wool, striped shearling, and golden fleece. 

Lengthening the silhouette, low slung pleated trousers cut in sartorial patterns hug the 

hips and curve to a tapered pleat. Lace trim slipdresses peek out beneath ribbed stripe 

and mohair intarsia knits, whilst geometric shell suit shapes are cut in silk and suede. 

Accented by the season’s ‘butterfly wing’ collar and lavalliere bow, smocked silk blouses 

are worn under flared v-neck pinafores in bouclé and glazed leather. Short dresses bloom 

with organza puff sleeves or come traced with star lace, zig zag edging, and cloud forest 

embroideries on tulle. 

The Fall Winter 2017 collection is worn with brogued mary janes and t-bar pumps or 

brass-trimmed loafers in suede and patent leather. The new rounded ‘pixie’ bag features 

faceted bracelet handles and a two-tone inlay of goatskin and suede. 

www.chloe.com 


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Stylewomen 

prada 

Fall Winter 2017 – Fashion 

is about the everyday and 

the everyday is the political 

stage of our freedoms 

The 2017 Fall Winter show, looks at the role that 

women have in shaping modern society, their 

political participation and social achievements. In 

the current moment – one where we are confronted 

with several cultural uncertainties – it is hard to think 

that any form of creative production will be exiled 

from taking a position in favour of the liberal values 

we share. The scenography identifies the intangible 

centrality of the contemporary female role both at 

the domestic and public scale. 

www.prada.com 


EXQUISITE | 65

Stylewomen 

“It is hard 

to think that 

any form 

of creative 

production 

will be exiled 

from taking 

a position in 

favour of the 

liberal values 

we share.” 


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StyleWomen 

SHANGHAI TANG 

The Spring Summer 2017 Collection embraces a 

carefree, bohemian direction 

This spring summer 2017 collection embraces a carefree, bohemian direction with 

an enchanting vision of fresh blooms, delicate hues and fluid shapes. 

Recalling imperial Suzhou gardens, romantic Wisteria or Chinese blossoms cascade 

along outfits – either a breezy summer shift, light poly-silk parka or a dramatic long 

silk gown. Inspiring peace and serenity, this collection is light in touch so features 

delicate sheers, wispy silk, lace and fabrics like peony jacquard and chrysanthemum 

cloque. Even pieces like the palm jacquard cotton knit coat, pullovers and parkas are 

kept summery through airy construction. 

Punchy floral accents and 3D wild flower embellishments adorn corners of simple 

separates or on the back of a qipao where intricate detailing compliments the fresh 

shape of the range. 

Select pieces are inspired by fine Chinese ceramics – a translucent mint green 

porcelain is taken from the distinctive glaze of Celadon vases – highly valued in 

Chinese Imperial courts. Then antique Wedgewood ceramic patterns influence a 

range of colour contrast prints. 

www.shanghaitang.com 


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Artauction 

Strong Art 

Performance 

“Innovative in its composition and jewel-like in its 

exquisite blaze of colours, it is one of the artist’s 

greatest masterpieces ever to come to auction.” 

– Helena Newman, global co-head of Sotheby’s 

Impressionist & Modern Art Department, and chairman 

of Sotheby’s Europe, on Gustave Klimt’s Bauerngarten. 

GUSTAV KLIMT’S 

BAUERNGARTEN soars 

at Sotheby’s auction in 

London that sees other 

great works by Picasso, 

Modigliani and Gauguin 

Femme assise dans un fauteuil sur fond blanc 

Oil on board, 100.5 x 81cm 

Painted on 25 March 1953 

Estimate: US$7,985,900-11,671,700 

Sold: US$14,846,095 

Gustav Klimt (1862-1918) 

Bauerngarten (Blumengarten) 

Oil on canvas, 110 x 110cm 

Painted in 1907 

Estimate: upon request 

Sold: US$59,300,000 

Femme nue assise 


Painted in January 1965 

Estimate: US$11,671,700-15,357,500 

Sold: US$16,781,140 


EXQUISITE | 77

Artauction 

Paul Gauguin (1848-1903) 

Te Arii Vahine – La Femme Aux Mangos (ll) 

Oil on canvas, 26.2 x 32.7cm 


Estimate: US$8,600,200-12,286,000 

Sold: US$10,284, 918 

Amedeo Modigliani (1884-1920) 

Portrait de Baranowski 



Estimate: US$12,286,000-18,429,000 

Sold: US$19,683,708 

www.sothebys.com 

Pablo Picasso (1881-1973) 

Plant de tomate 


Painted between 6-9 August 1944 

Estimate: US$12,286,000-18,429,000 

Sold: US$20,927,665 


EXQUISITE | 79

events 

Rediscovering the Bon 

Experience: 

Beyond Singapore 

Boncafé reaches greater heights with the recent relocation of 

Vietnam Corporate office & showroom along with 

Malaysia’s Headquarters in Kuala Lumpur 

Boncafé Vietnam Company Limited is proud to announce 

the relocation of its Corporate Office and Showroom to 

a state-of-the-art 8-storey commercial building on 9th 

March 2017 in District 2 of Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam 

located just right next to the iconic Saigon River and just minutes 

away from the city centre. 

Boncafé is renowned to be the market pioneer in premium 

gourmet roasted, ground coffee supply and coffee machine 

systems distribution to luxury hotels, restaurants, membership 

clubs and cafes. Boncafé products are also widely distributed in 

major retail gourmet supermarkets. 

The edgy industrial retail showroom stands out with its dark 

wooden fittings and specially chosen lightings. The ground level 

features domestic bean-to-cup and capsule machines ideally 

for home or small office use. On the mezzanine level, the art 

of serving a good cup of coffee starts with the right equipment 

and reputable brands such as La San Marco, La Marzocco and 

Thermoplan will excite you further with its individual unique 

selling features. 


EXQUISITE | 81

events 

BONCAFÉ MALAYSIA unveils state-of-the-art 

premises 

Boncafé Malaysia Sdn Bhd relocated its Corporate Office, 

Showroom and Etré Bon Coffee Academy to their brand 

new state-of-the-art 4-storey commercial building located in 

Glenmarie, Shah Alam in Malaysia. 

The premises is just a stone’s throw away from the main city of 

Kuala Lumpur and nestles within the premium car showrooms 

zone in Temasya Industrial area. 

“We are thrilled to open our new state-of-the-art showroom and 

coffee training centre here in Malaysia and offer our customers 

the full Boncafe brand experience,” said Pascal Heritier, Group 

Chairman of Boncafe Group of Companies. 

CHIC DESIGN, EXCELLENT COFFEE 

The Mezzanine floor of the new Boncafé Office/Showroom 

inspires a minimalist industrial look coupled with dark wooden 

fittings and specially chosen lighting – all symbolising the rebirth 

of Boncafé Malaysia. 

The art of making a good cup of coffee revolves around the right 

equipment and reputable brands such as La San Marco, Rancilio, 

La Marzocco, Thermoplan and Egro to name a few. Their unique 

selling features reinforce good branding and quality in the world 

of coffee. 

PICK UP BARISTA SKILLS AND COFFEE KNOWLEDGE 

Apart from the showroom, the Mezzanine floor also houses a 

“French Glass-door see-through Training Facility” where training 

sessions will be held for customers. Tips on perfecting that cup 

of Espresso, machine cleaning and maintenance and how to 

make that Iced Frappe that you get in speciality cafes will also 

be introduced here. 

Advance to the Rooftop Terrace for a “Crop to Cup Journey” 

and learn how coffee is cultivated and harvested, as well as the 

meticulous processes involved before we get that coffee in the 

cup! Pick up coffee skills and knowledge from in-house barista 

trainers & roast masters on coffee roasting, single origins 

produce and live cupping demonstrations. 

ORDER YOUR PREMIUM SINGLE ORIGIN COFFEE 

Why settle for less? You can also place orders for premium 

single origin coffee via the “Roast on Demand” Service (ROD). 

This specialty roasting service is specially curated for coffee 

connoisseurs and enthusiasts who like to have their coffee fresh 

and prefer cleaner profiles than coffee blends. 

Anything and everything that’s brewed – that’s Boncafe’s 

business. With bespoke coffee consultants on hand to assist 

with your needs, Boncafé offers the very best in everything Bon. 


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Doctors 

Dr Chung Kong Mun 

Dr Chng Hui Kheng 

Dr Johanna Choo 

Dr Lewis Lee Kim Chuan 

Our Services 

General Dentistry 

Fillings, Bleaching, Tooth Whitening, Veneers, etc. 

Orthodontics 

Braces 

Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery 

Wisdom Teeth Removal, Dental Implants, Jaw & Reconstructive 

Surgery 

Endodontics 

Root Canal and Pulpa Therapy, Management of Dental Pain 

and Dental Trauma 

Periodontics 

Gum Conditions & Disease, Dental Implants 

Prosthodontics 

Crowns, Fixed Bridges, Dentures, Dental Implant 

A multi-dental specialist group 

at your service 

T: (65) 6737 3833 l W: www.rcolldentist.com.sg l E: rcolldentist@pachealthholdings.com

MAY 2017

Beautywomen 

BURBERRY 

London, England 

The Essentials Collection 

Burberry The Essentials: an effortless beauty collection 

designed around their core make-up philosophy – 

prime, contour and highlight – with a new campaign 

starring British model and Burberry Beauty Ambassador 

Iris Law. The Essentials comprises of signature products that 

create a glowing complexion, sculptured features with subtle, 

flattering highlights, and the perfect nude lip. 

Burberry is known for its signature nudes and natural, glowing 

skin. The Essentials is an edit of must-have products that 

everyone can use to effortlessly enhance their features and 

achieve a flawless Burberry glow. It includes new Fresh Glow 

Highlighter and the new, innovative Lip Colour Contour Pen, as 

well as existing Burberry Fresh Glow favourites. The Essentials 

are ideal for creating subtle highlights and contours on the face 

and are super easy to use for everybody, at any age. 

The Essentials Collection includes: 

BURBERRY FACE CONTOUR 

– The unique, runway-inspired Face Contour creates 

soft shadows to enhance, define and sculpt the face for a 

professional result every day. 

– The creamy, lightweight texture blends seamlessly to a 

subtle natural shadow. 

– Sweep the precision dome tip along the cheekbones and 

jawline, and down the nose to sculpt, shade and define, or 

apply to the eye socket for a bigger eye effect. 

– Face Contour is one of our runway icons always used 

backstage by Wendy Rowe, Burberry Make-Up Artistic 

Consultant. 

– It complements both the Fresh Glow Luminous Fluid Base 

and Fresh Glow Highlighting Luminous Pen perfectly for 

extra definition. 

– Available in two shades to suit all skin tones: one for light 

to medium complexions and a darker one for medium to 

dark complexions. 

Price: S$54 

The Essentials Collection is available via: Sephora ION, 

Sephora.sg, TANGS@Tang Plaza and Tangs.com 

sg.burberry.com 


EXQUISITE | 89

Services 

Best Bets 

Spotlighting great (or under-the-radar) beauty places and services. BY Rael Yip 

Tailoring and 

Alteration Service 

Alt-To-Fit 

Blk 449, Clementi Ave 3, #01-265 

Tel: 9835 5731 

www.alttofit.com 

Sometimes there are some outfits you 

have that you love that works, but 

don’t fit quite right. That’s when giving 

them a new lease of life with alteration 

might be a good option to buying 

something new. Not all tailoring and 

alteration services are created equal. It 

can get tricky finding a good one that 

delivers decent workmanship, is creative 

enough at refashioning the garment into 

something you would be happy to wear, 

and to do all this at a reasonable price. 

I found what I wanted at this small shop 

in Clementi central, where the personal 

attention from the owner Mdm Choo and 

the expertise of the seamstresses make 

for a professional, efficient experience. 

Frequented mostly by those living 

in the vicinity, customers usually 

turn up through word of mouth. 

The shop offers the usual alteration 

service such as shortening hemlines 

to more sophisticated requests like 

custom-making dresses. Mdm Choo 

suggested various ways and materials 

for refashioning the pants and skirts 

I had brought in for her attention, 

which turned out pretty much to my 

satisfaction. Attention to details like wellstitched 

pants cuffs and lace tastefully 

added onto a skirt for embellishment 

created whole new looks for my clothes 

– and makes this shop a hidden gem. 

ZONE-OUT 

St. Gregory Spa at Pan Pacific 

Orchard 

10 Claymore Road, Level Four 

Tel: 6831 6797 

www.panpacific.com/orchard 

Privacy and tranquility are the buzzwords 

at this intimate spa. There’s a relaxation 

lounge in the back where you can 

relax pre- and post-treatment, and a 

gym. A bounty of natural light beaming 

through large windows leads you along 

a corridor to the outdoor swimming 

pool. Dim lights, candles and soft music 

create a relaxing setting for massage 

and skin services. The menu of body 

and facial treatments reflects a mix of 

traditional Asian and Western therapies 

and modern skincare. If you book the 

couple suite, the spacious room comes 

with a massive tub, so the both of you 

can soak in bliss. 

My session begins with the Indonesian 

Balinese Massage where areas of 

soreness were eased by firm, rolling 

strokes. This is followed by a stressrelieving 

traditional Chinese foot 

reflexology – my therapist used to work 

in a foot reflexology centre, so her 

skills were solid. For facial treatments, 

therapists will draw from an array of 

products from spa beauty brands Elemis 

and Thalion, to target different skin types 

or problems. 

HEAD MASSAGE AND 

HAIRCUT 

Artisan Hair 

42A Lorong Mambong Holland Village 

Tel: 6469 2059 

The cosy space hosts dark leather chairs 

and dramatic huge mirrors, further 

accented with eclectic wall decals and 

framed wall pictures. The hair stylists 

deliver their laid-back charm, kick-ass 

hairdressing expertise and love of music 

to a regular clientele. The long, relaxing 

head and neck massages during the 

shampoo and hair treatment were divine 

treats. Clients come for styles ranging 

from traditional cuts and colours to 

bolder hues and asymmetrical layers, 

each carefully coiffed with an artistic 

touch. Clients return for the personable, 

attentive experience and reasonablypriced 

services. 

90 | EXQUISITE


TRAVELcruises 

Breathlessly Elegant in Luxury 

Seven Seas Explorer is everything you dream of in a cruise that is 

elegant and luxurious 

Round the world voyages are very popular and sell out 

fast. So don’t wait! Embark on your very own grand 

world voyage or a shorter 36-night voyage to alluring 

Buenos Aires or the breathtaking Mediterranean. The 

Regent Seven Seas Cruises promises enticing voyages to nearly 

350 ports around the world, including locations that larger 

vessels cannot reach. 

It’s new and luxurious 

Be among the first to embark on the newest and the most 

luxurious ship ever built: the Regent Seven Seas Explorer®. It is 

a wonderful experience even before your journey begins! 

Here’s what you can enjoy: professional concierge and service, 

a special brand of all-inclusive luxury; stunning sea and 

destination views with the largest balconies at sea with 375 allsuite, 

all-balcony accommodations; exquisite dining options 

that rival the finest restaurants ashore. 

Exclusive culinary adventures 

After revelling in the delicious food and if you love to cook, you’ll 

be glad to know that exclusively aboard Seven Seas Explorer, 

the Culinary Arts Kitchen teaches a variety of impressive dishes 

in a classy environment reminiscent of the most prestigious 

cooking schools. The 18 culinary workstations are fully equipped 

with state-of-the-art equipment, that even master chefs use. 

Ultimate luxury in comfort, amenities and 

adventures 

The Seven Seas Explorer is worthy of bragging rights. The 

375 all-suite ship, even from the starter Veranda Suites, come 

with deep walk-in closets, double sinks, L’Occitane® Amenities, 

large king beds and spacious balcony to enjoy comfortably. The 

higher-end rooms include 1-night pre-cruise hotel package and 

other services to let you travel in style. 

Free unlimited shore excursions and endless 

indulgences 

This is the only cruise line that offers free unlimited shore 

excursions in every port of call, which allows you to explore 

various destinations as many times as you like. With so many 

activities on board, from reading in the well-stocked library to 

indulging in spa treatments, and entertaining nights at the theatre 

and more, the fun never ends aboad the Seven Seas Explorer. 

So what are you waiting for? 

Let the experienced team of cruise enthusiasts at Port & Porters 

help to curate an unforgettable voyage. Simply contact Port 

& Porters at Tel: +65 6225 1322 / +65 6225 2322 or check out 

http://portandporters.com for more details. 

Extend your food experience to Gourmet Explorer Tours. Offered 

exclusively aboard Seven Seas Explorer you can experience 

the culinary cultures of the world’s most delicious destinations. 

Imagine shopping at local markets with local food experts or 

touring the kitchens of renowned chefs. Dine at award-winning 

restaurants, and sample delicious wines at breathtaking estates. 

Onboard, your food experience is a delight just the same. You’ll 

never go hungry on the Explorer with so many options to fill your 

bellies: two main lunch restaurants and six for dinner offering 

shrimp cocktail, caviar canapés, lobster and other irresistible 

options; for Asian fare head to Pacific Rim to enjoy a wide 

selection of Pan-Asian delights such as grilled Korean barbecue 

lamb chops, eryngii mushroom and gochujang dressing. 

92 | EXQUISITE

15NMAJESTICMIDNIGHTSUN 

~Dartmouth,UnitedKingdom -Dublin,Ireland-CruisingTheNorthAtlanticOcean- 

Torshavn,Denmark-CruisingTheNorthAtlanticOcean-Akureyri,Iceland-Isafjordur, 

Iceland-CruisingTheNorthAtlanticOcean-CruisingPrinceChristianSound-Nuuk, 

Greenland -Paamiut(Frderiskshab),Greenland-Qaqortoq,Greenland~ 

SailingDate:25July2017 

10NNORDICSPLENDORS 

~Berlin(Warnemunde),Germany-CruisingTheBalticSea-Klaipéda,Lithuania- 

Riga,Latvia-Helsinki,Finland-St.Petersburg,Rusia-Talinn,Estonia~ 

SailingDate:21Aug2017 

7NMEDITERRANEANPALETTE 

~Umbria(Ancona),Italy-Dubrovnik,Croatia-Kotor,Montenegro-Corfu,Greece- 

Mesina(Sicily),Italy-Naples/pompei,Italy~ 

SailingDate:14Oct2017 

12NPLAZAS& CATHEDRALS 

~Florence/pisa(Livorno),Italy-Portofino,Italy-MonteCarlo,Monaco-Provence 

(Marseile),France-Barcelona,Spain-PalmaDeMalorca,Spain-Cartagena,Spain 

-Málaga(Granada),Spain-Sevile(Cádiz),Spain~ 

SailingDate:12Nov2017 

12NPARADISEAWAITS 

~CruisingTheBahamianWaters-CruisingTheAtlanticOcean-SanJuan,Puerto 

Rico-St.John's,Antigua-FortDeFrance,Martinique-St.George's,Grenada- 

Bridgetown,Barbados-Castries,St.Lucia-Gustavia,St.Barts~ 

SailingDate:08Dec2017 

FARESINCLUDE:UnlimitedShoreExcursions,UnlimitedBeveragesIncludingFineWinesandPremium Spirits,OpenBars 

andLoungesPlusIn-SuiteMini-BarReplenishedDaily,Pre-PaidGratuities,SpecialtyRestaurants, 

UnlimitedWiFi 

TERMS& CONDITIONS:PricesareinUSD.PromotionsmaybewithdrawnatanytimebyCruiseLine.Pricing/availability 

arenotguaranteeduntilpaymentismade.Alitinerariesandmapsaresubjecttochange. 

Contactus@ +6562251322formoresailings

TravelIbiza 

Luxury on 

the Beach 

“Ibiza means “party 

till you drop” in Old 

Spanish.” 

Nobu Hotel Ibiza Bay set to open June 2017 

The Balearic Island’s new luxury five-star resort, Nobu 

Hotel Ibiza Bay, a member of the Small Luxury Hotels 

of the World (SLH), is set to open on 30 June 

2017. Located on the shores of Talamanca Bay, the 

sophisticated yet fun loving beach retreat will be like nowhere 

else in Ibiza. 

Ibiza means “party till you drop” in Old Spanish. It is one of the 

Balearic islands, an archipelago of Spain in the Mediterranean 

Sea, known for its electric nightlife in Ibiza Town and Sant 

Antoni. It’s also home to quaint villages, yoga retreats and 

beaches, from Platja d’en Bossa. Quieter sandy coves below 

green hills are found all around the coast. 

Ibiza Bay is designed to be the ultimate playground for grownups. 

The Ibizan style rooms and suites, two private seafront 

pools, restaurants, spa, boutique, adult and family experiences 

have been carefully curated to provide guests with the finest, 

authentic island escape, without ever having to leave the 

resort. 

Nestling on the white sandy beaches of Talamanca Bay, two 

kilometres north of Ibiza Town (a UNESCO World Heritage site) 

and a leisurely fifteen minutes’ walk from trendy boutiques and 

clubs of Marina Botafoch; Nobu Hotel Ibiza Bay offers stunning 

views of the Mediterranean Sea. 


EXQUISITE | 95

TravelIbiza 

Rooms and design – 152 rooms and suites 

Inspired by the colours of the island, rooms are decorated with 

soft furnishings, natural wood, and artisan ceramics, using 

a colour palette of whites, golds and blues. Tasteful details 

like mother-of-pearl inlay and hand-blown pendant lights lend 

a lavish yet comfortable feel to the rooms. Floor-to-ceiling 

windows and open terraces mean guests will wake to the scent 

of wild jasmine and fall asleep to the sound of the crashing 

waves, whilst luxurious Natura Bisse amenities offer pre-and 

post-beach pampering. 

Food – Four restaurants and a pool bar 

Savour Nobu Matsuhisa’s signature Japanese fusion dishes, 

as well as special creations inspired by Ibiza itself at Nobu, the 

resort’s signature restaurant. Chambao, in collaboration with 

El Chiringuito de Es Cavallet is Ibiza Bay’s laidback chiringuito. 

The freshly prepared seafood is as much of the attraction as the 

cocktails and beach vibe. At night, Chambao is the place to be 

for chilled-out parties with family and friends. The Peyote Group 

is bringing the vibrant spirit of modern Mexico City to Ibiza with 

its contemporary and refined take on renowned Mexican food. 

For those looking for healthy fare, the deliciously wholesome 

café Celicioso will recharge guests with mouth-watering glutenfree 

cuisine, nourishing juices and superfood salads. 

The expansive Presidential and Royal Suites boast grand 

terraces overlooking the Mediterranean, an outdoor Jacuzzi, 

sprawling living room and private bar. Accommodation options 

vary from Cool and Deluxe rooms to Junior and Grand Suites. 

Spa and leisure – Ibiza Bay brings the first Six 

Senses Spa to the island 

There will be signature journeys, anti-aging treatments, 

innovative fitness workouts and top-notch manicures at the 

healthy juice and nail bar, where guests can enjoy some TLC 

over a glass of delicious smoothie or juice. 

Nobu Hotel Ibiza Bay’s Kids Club is engaging and exploratory, 

so much so that grown-ups will want to become kids again. 

From bohemian foraging sessions to a cookery school 

and Ibizan inspired programmes; Ibiza Bay’s Kids Club is 

imaginative and innovative. 

Rates start from €490 per night (approx S$740), based on 

double occupancy. 

www.slh.com/nobuibizabay 


EXQUISITE | 97

TravelIndonesia 

Sail the Indonesian 

Archipelago in Style 

Rascal is a new breed of superyacht. Chilled out, carefree 

and unpretentious luxury cruising with relaxed world-class 

service and a tropical-chic design. Available for private charter 

around the Indonesian Archipelago, here are 10 reasons why 

everyone should make a Rascal voyage top of their travel plans. 

10 reasons why Rascal is the luxury trip of 2017 


EXQUISITE | 99

TravelIndonesia 

1. The only Phinisi superyacht to have all 

five cabins above deck, providing an entirely 

above water accommodation experience 

Rascal was designed to emulate a ‘floating Hamptons 

beach house’. With five spacious double cabins, Rascal can 

accommodate up to 10 adults. All bedrooms have ensuite 

bathrooms, 2.3m-high ceilings, outdoor terraces and stunning 

sea views. 

2. Remote discoveries 

Venture beyond Bali and Lombok. An hour’s flight from Bali 

takes you to some of Rascal’s more remote bases. Komodo 

National Park, last sanctuary for the Komodo dragon and 

UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the world’s finest 

destinations for scuba divers; Sumba Island with its local hilltop 

villages, thatched clan houses and distinctive flora and fauna is 

a World Wildlife Fund eco region; and Raja Ampat has the most 

biodiverse marine habitat on earth. 

3. Unforgettable beaches 

Outstanding white-sand beaches and lush volcanic landscapes, 

the Indonesian archipelago offers the world’s most crystal clear 

waters and unique local cultures. A voyage on Rascal will go 

down as the trip of a lifetime. 

4. Tailor-made cruising 

Rascal operates with just one rule - if coconuts don’t grow 

there, she won’t go there! Each itinerary is bespoke and 

flexible, enabling you to design your dream voyage from 

start to finish. Every day brings unlimited new possibilities for 

Rascals, from the soundtracks to the menus. Off-radar island 

destinations, under surface marine life immersions, on-deck 

degustation and rooftop midnight stargazing, everything is 

provided with casual, barefoot freedom and fun. 

5. One of the region’s best dive masters 

Expert or not, diving and snorkelling are included for all Rascals 

to explore some of the region’s most undiscovered marine-life. 

Having held positions at Nihiwatu, Amanwana in the Flores 

Sea and Aman’s luxurious Amanikan cruiser, Rascal Superstar 

Cruise Director and Dive Master Garry (Gaz) Phillips comes with 

an impressive portfolio. With over 3500 dives under his belt, he 

is one of Indonesia’s travel and diving elites. 

6. A boat for foodies 

Dining on board Rascal is an experience on its own, with 

nutritious food made fresh to order 24 hours a day. The 

passionately created menus come from The Good Food 

Brotherhood, the pioneering team behind Bali’s Watercress, 

Milk and Madu and Shmurger Burger restaurants – renowned 

for delivering healthful lifestyle-cafe concepts to the island’s 

international jet set. The days kick-start with the famous 

Watercress Bloody Mary, beachfront BBQs are fired up for 

private cove lunches and dining under the stars at night brings 

you fresh seafood catches before a curated collection of fine 

wine and cheese. 

7. Toys! 

Rascal both by name and nature – there are endless 

opportunities for all ages and all abilities to get out on the 

water. Two speedboat tenders are on hand for thrill seekers to 

take for a spin, with an inflatable jumbo to be towed behind. 

SUP Boards, two sea kayaks, fishing and snorkelling equipment 

are available for the slow-paced days, where Rascal can drop 

anchor in a secluded bay to enable you to explore the countless 

reefs with paddle in hand. 

8. Digital Detox 

Switch off in style. The more remote regions of Komodo and 

Raja Ampat are the perfect excuse to disconnect from the 

pressures of corporate life and embrace a full digital detox. 

Days can go past where no boat crosses Rascal’s path, giving 

you a rare feeling that they’re in a world of their own. Soak in 

the panoramic views, iconic sunsets and peaceful surroundings 

and save the uploads for later. 

9. Laidback luxury 

Rascal is a superyacht you can settle into. Eclectic and chic, 

with brass hardware, rattan ceilings, crisp white linens, playful 

nautical touches, cabins with their own individual charm – 

make the hospitality experience of Rascal feel contemporary, 

comfortable and homely. Groups of friends, families have 

complete private charter of Rascal to use how they wish – relax, 

party or explore. 

10. Cocktail menu from Asia’s award-winning 

mixologists 

Sailing wouldn’t be complete without sharing a sunset rum 

cocktail with friends. The team behind Asia’s Number 1 Bar, 28 

Hong Kong Street have curated a bespoke Rascal Rum and an 

exclusive refreshing cocktail menu. From a contemporary twist 

on the traditional Dark N Stormy, to a tropical Frozen Banana 

Daiquiri and Painkiller – a reimagined Pina Colada, there’s a 

drink for everyone to toast with at the end of a long day. 

Rascal is available for private charter only - each charter is tailor 

made 

Nightly rates start at US$8,500 (full board) and vary depending 

on itinerary and season 

Website: www.rascal-charters.com | Bookings: enquiries@ 

rascal-charters.com Instagram: @Rascal_Charters 

#WeAreRascals 

www.rascal-charters.com 


EXQUISITE | 101

Travelinterest 

SINGAPORE HIGHEST 

VISA-FREE ACCESS 

The Lion City achieves its highest ranking in the 2017 Henley & Partners Visa 

Restrictions Index 

Singapore has kept its top spot amidst Southeast Asia as 

the country with the highest visa-free access, revealed 

the 2017 Visa Restrictions Index, an annual travel 

freedom ranking published by the global residence 

and citizenship advisory firm, Henley & Partners. The index is 

produced in partnership with the International Air Transport 

Association (IATA), which maintains the world’s largest and 

most authoritative database of travel information. 

Climbing one spot from last year, Singapore ranks 4th globally 

– its highest ranking on the Index in 10 years – with visa-free 

access to 173 countries. The lion city remains number one 

in Southeast Asia, followed closely by neighbours Malaysia 

and Brunei Darussalam with visa-free accesss to 164 and 151 

countries respectively. Malaysia ranks 2nd regionally and 

13th globally, dropping one place from last year while Brunei 

Darussalam retains its 23rd global ranking. 

The biggest climbers in the region were Laos (8th regionally, 

88th globally) and Myanmar (9th regionally, 93rd globally) 

rising two spots each from last year. Laos added one country 

to take its visa-free access total to 48 whilst Myanmar brought 

down its total to 42, one less than last year. 

According to Dominic Volek, Managing Partner of Henley & 

Partners Singapore and Head Southeast Asia, although the size 

and make-up of the ‘Top 10’ remains the same as last year, the 

changing geopolitical climate could well affect the rankings 

over the next 12 months. 

“Over the last year alone, we have seen several major changes 

to the global political landscape – such as Brexit and US 

President Donald Trump’s travel ban – that will likely change 

global mobility as we know now. This year’s Visa Restriction 

Index is a reflection of the global shift in travel freedom, 

highlighting the impact of entry barriers and movement 

restrictions” said Volek. 

In total, 48 countries lost ground over the past year, dropping 

between one and three places, and only 42 countries showed 

no movement at all. Germany holds on to its top spot on the 

index for the fourth consecutive year, with access to 176 

countries in total. Sweden also remains static in second place 

with 175 countries, and Denmark, Finland, Italy, Spain and the 

US jointly rank third, with their nationals enjoying access to 174 

countries without a visa. 

The UK, however, has slipped down yet another position this 

year to fourth, having shared first place with Germany for three 

consecutive years from 2013–2015. Syria, Pakistan, Iraq and 

Afghanistan sit at the very bottom of the Henley & Partners Visa 

Restrictions Index, each with visa-free access to less than 30 

countries worldwide. 

The biggest movers in this year’s index were Peru and Ghana. 

Peru was the highest individual mover, gaining 15 places. Island 

nations also made a strong showing, with the Marshall Islands, 

the Solomon Islands, Micronesia, Kiribati and Tuvalu all gaining 

over nine places. In contrast, Ghana showed the most negative 

movement, losing four places in one year. 

The fortunes of the emerging economies of the BRICS nations 

were varied. Brazil and China both increased their standing 

on the index, moving up three and two ranks respectively. 

However, the other three all lost ground: Russia dropping three 

places, India two, and South Africa one. 


EXQUISITE | 103

2.0


Architecture&Design 

Up in the Trees 

You’ve always wanted to stay in a tree house, surrounded by treetops, 

singing birds and dancing sunlight. Now you can at these two new 

hotel projects in Mexico and Sweden 

By Carol Kraal 


EXQUISITE | 107


TULUM, MEXICO – PAPAYA PLAYA PROJECT 

TREEHOUSE 

Spread out over a 900-m stretch of the Caribbean coast of 

Tulum, Papaya Playa Project, represented by Design Hotels, 

is a sustainable boutique hotel with a rustic charm and a 

sophisticated natural luxury. 

Recently a luxury treehouse was added to the mix, affording 

lovely views of the sea and surrounding nature. 

Owner Emilio Heredia was adamant in adhering to sustainable 

features in design and construction, which was carried out by 

the Design Hotels creative team. 

“Sustainability means life for future generations and integrity 

for the current one,” said Heredia. “Elevating the structure 

encourages the growth of jungle plants around the treehouse 

and ensures the building does not interfere with nature. We 

wanted to show the utmost respect to all the wildlife living in 

the jungle when building the treehouse.” 

Ecologically built with indigenous materials and age-old Mayan 

construction techniques, you get 300-degree views of the sea 

Architecture and design – Design Hotels Creative Team 

Placing the structure on wooden stilts not only transports you 

to the very heart of the jungle—both physically and mentally— 

but also ensured local flora and fauna went untouched in the 

construction process. 

The interiors of the treehouse mirror the visual identity of 

the resort’s other accommodation and public spaces. Locally 

sourced materials and recycled wood mingle with simple, 

no-frills furnishings, while white macramé detailing gives the 

structure a special charm and unique appearance. The windows 

offer 360-degree views over the lush jungle and the jade-blue 

waters of the Caribbean Ocean. 

Fusing the beach with the jungle was an important element 

to the location of the structure. The mission is to promote a 

holistic and spiritual life, consciously responsible with nature 

and with the community; and also to create spaces where you 

experience the beauty all around - physically and emotionally. 

www.papayaplayaproject.com 

www.designhotels.com 

As with the resort’s 85 casitas and cabanas, the Treehouse has 

been ecologically built with indigenous materials and age-old 

Mayan construction techniques. 


EXQUISITE | 109


HARADS, SWEDEN – 

THE 7TH ROOM 

Built as a traditional Nordic cabin, you get idyllic views of the 

Lapland treetops and the Lule River, while a floor-to-ceiling 

window gives you the best chance to see the Aurora Borealis on a 

clear day 

Architecture and design - Snøhetta 

In the tall pine forest of Northern Sweden, where the tricolored tree trunks stretch 

up to the soaring crowns, a new addition to the renowned Treehotel has opened. 

Hovering 10m above the ground within the tree canopy, the Snøhetta-designed 7th 

room provides breathtaking views of the Lapland treetops and the Lule River. With 

focus on the surrounding nature, the design features large windows, a netted terrace 

suspended above the forest floor, and a tree stretching up through the cabin. The 

boundaries between indoors and outdoors are blurred, making the cabin part of the 

forest. 

Twelve columns carry the cabin, reducing the load borne by the trees and its impact 

on the surrounding forest. This gives a feeling of height and weightlessness, as well 

as stability. Built as a traditional Nordic cabin, the wooden facade is clad with pine 

boards, and the surface is burnt to create a dark and maintenance-free exterior. The 

indoor flooring is made from ash wood, while birch plywood is used for the interior 

walls. Complementing the light wooden furniture, the blonde Nordic interior contrasts 

appealingly to the dark exterior. 

The 55-sqm space is designed to create a place for living. With two bedrooms, a 

social lounge area, bathroom, and the airy terrace, the cabin accommodates up to five 

guests. The varying floor heights creates an efficient and playful interior design. The 

space is laid out on two levels with only 30cm difference in height. The lounge area is 

located on the lower floor, while the bedrooms are on the upper level with the beds 

embedded in the floor. 

The design of the 7th room aims to bring people and nature closer together, 

extending the cabin’s social spaces to the outside and further blending the distinction 

between indoor and outdoor. Entering the cabin, you arrive into the lounge area. A 

north-facing floor-to-ceiling window gives you the best chance to see the Aurora 

Borealis on a clear day, bestowing this social space the name the Northern Light 

lounge. A large glass door leads from the lounge area out on the netted terrace. 

With large, generous windows in all rooms, natural light is the primary source of light 

in the cabin. With its wooden characteristics and unique location in the treetops, the 

7th room is a celebration of the Nordic cabin and the pine tree forest. 

www.treehotel.se 

www.snohetta.com 

Photography credits: Papaya Playa Project Treehouse courtesy of Design Hotels. The 

7th room by Johan Jansson, courtesy of Snøhetta 


EXQUISITE | 111

Designsculpture 

French sculptor Etienne Moyat uses 

the noisy tool to create a wide range of 

wooden masterpieces from small circular 

leaf discs to monumental wall panels and 

custom made furniture 

Chainsaw 

Creations 

You would be forgiven for being a little alarmed when 

walking into Etienne Moyat’s studio. The scream of a 

chainsaw is not what we conventionally associate with 

sculpture. Yet this is Moyat’s unique and innovative 

approach which adds a fearless and raw edge to his work. 

Following a successful career in interior architecture, Moyat set 

up his namesake workshop in 2004 and in 2005 was awarded 

the ‘Young Designers Award’ from Ateliers d’Art de France. 

Moyat’s sculptures are installed in the most prestigious hotels 

worldwide, as well as private residences and luxury yachts. 

Made from the wood of Douglas Fir trees, Moyat’s creations 

span from 15cm high decorative Circular Leaf sculptures to 

dazzling 4m high Totems. His unconventional approach means 

that each piece takes on a personality of its own. Moyat hand 

picks the best tree for each sculpture, draws on the lines by 

hand before then systematically carving the indentations into 

the surface with his chainsaw, a rather dangerous and bold 

method. 

He loves to explore the different textures and shape of each 

piece of wood. Finally, the panel is burnt or torched, brushed 

and polished and then painted with an array of different colours 

from varying shades of silver and brown to more playful reds 

and blues. 

“Wall panels are my favourite works. To me, they are like 

freedom spaces where I can explore and search what connects 

myself to wood,” says Moyat. 

Etienne Moyat is now available in Singapore for the very first 

time at Vanilla Home. 

Vanilla Home 

63 Club Street, Singapore 069437 

Tel: +65 6324 6206 

www.vanilla-home.com 


EXQUISITE | 113

ArchitectureAwards 

“Women architects need some 

support from others who have 

made that journey.” 

— Explained the late Zaha Hadid on receiving the 2012 Jane Drew Prize. 

Layers of 

Design 

Excellence 

Gabriela Carrillo seeks balance 

between the language of existing 

buildings and contemporary 

architectural expression 

Sourced By Carol Kraal 

Architectural & Design Consultant Sara Graav 

Gabriela Carrillo, co-founder of Taller Mauricio Rocha + 

Gabriela Carrillo, was named Architect of the Year at 

the 2017 Women in Architecture Awards presented by 

The Architectural Review and The Architects’ Journal. 

The Mexican was selected for demonstrating excellence in 

design and a commitment to working both sustainably and 

democratically with local communities. 

Judges were particularly impressed with Carrillo’s Criminal 

Courts for Oral trials in Pátzcuaro, Michoacán in Mexico – which 

skilfully answers a brief to design flexible spaces, comply with 

strict security rules and improve transparency in the judicial 

process. 

Carrillo seeks to find a balance between the language of 

existing buildings and contemporary architectural expression – 

considering how to insert a new building in the historic layers 

of a city without destroying these layers, and still make an 

impact. 

The stone oval building of the criminal courts surrounds an 

arrangement of rectangular brick constructions with sloped 

tiled roofs that respond to the climatic conditions of a region 

where rain is abundant. Gardens overlook the buildings. 

Zaha Hadid Architects (ZHA) recently joined the Women in 

Architecture partner programme, in association with the 

Architects’ Journal and The Architectural Review. 

At the 2012 Women in Architecture awards, the late Zaha Hadid 

received the Jane Drew Prize for her contribution to the status 

of women in architecture. 

“Women architects need some support from others who 

have made that journey,” explained Zaha Hadid on receiving 

the 2012 Jane Drew Prize. “You now see more established, 

respected female architects all the time. That doesn’t mean it’s 

easy. Sometimes the difficulties are incomprehensible.” 

Photographs and copyright: Gabriela Carrillo,Taller de 

Arquitectura Mauricio Rocha + Gabriela Carrillo, Criminal 

Courts for Oral Trials, Pátzcuaro, Mexico by Onnis Luque; Zaha 

Hadid by Steve Double courtesy of Zaha Hadid Architects. 


EXQUISITE | 115

A Legendary Dining Experience 

Indulge in our signature bone-in slow roasted Prime Ribs of Beef, carved from the iconic “Silver Cart” and 

served with Yorkshire Pudding alongside table showmanship of the famous Original Spinning Bowl Salad. 

With six elegant Private Dining Rooms that offer areas of exclusivity for all celebrations, Lawry’s is ever ready 

to continue our legacy of providing world-class service and dining experience for you and your loved ones. 

Visit www.lawrys.com.sg to view our latest menus and events. 

333A Orchard Road #04-01/31 Mandarin Gallery, Mandarin Orchard Singapore 238897 

Tel: 6836 3333 Email: reservations@lawrys.com.sg Website: www.lawrys.com.sg


DRinkappliances 

A True Artisan 

Philosophy 

Linea PB A heavy-duty workhorse, is equipped 

with a lower profile and exclusive user-friendly 

interface software that gives the barista direct 

functional control over boiler temperature, 

brewing volume and a scale technology to ensure 

hot water tap dose among other options. 

Boncafé introduces the superbly handcrafted, uniquely designed 

high performance traditional coffee machines from 

Italy’s leading coffee machine innovator – La Marzocco 

Marketed by Boncafé Group, the La Marzocco Coffee 

Experience can now be enjoyed through the 

Singapore, Malaysia, Vietnam, and Cambodia offices 

following the success stories being exclusively 

distributed by both Boncafé Middle East and Thailand offices. 

The array of La Marzocco machines offer unparalleled options 

for everyone from businesses to professional baristas to home 

users. Featuring its signature dual-boiler system to optimize 

espresso brewing and steam production, the high-performance 

machines provide an exceptional coffee experience with every 

cup. For a touch of individuality, customization options for the 

side panels and portafilter handles are available. 

Everyone from businesses to professional baristas to home 

users. Featuring its signature dual-boiler system to optimize 

espresso brewing and steam production, the high-performance 

machines provide an exceptional coffee experience with every 

cup. For a touch of individuality, customization options for the 

side panels and portafilter handles are available. 

GS3 A ideal model for those who wish to 

extend excellence to include a supreme cup of 

coffee – whether in small restaurants, boutique 

hotels or at home in the kitchen. A must for the 

perfectionist and espresso coffee enthusiast. It 

also features the thermal stability system used 

in the Strada, including a preheating system, 

digital PID controller, saturated groups, a dualboiler 

system, and digital display. 

Linea Mini Ideal for coffee enthusiasts who enjoy 

making their own cup of coffee in the comfort of their 

home, it offers the same durability as commercial 

machines in a more compact form. An integrated brew 

group allows the machine to achieve temperature 

stability and energy efficiency of the saturated brew 

group in reduced footprint. 

Available in stainless steel, black, light blue, 

red, white and yellow. 

Strada MP This most advanced model is designed to 

encourage creativity and customization. Featuring individual 

brew boilers, preheater assembly and dedicated Proportional– 

Integral–Derivative (PID) controls for each boiler and easy 

access for preventive maintenance, it provides the barista the 

ability to individualize each brew. 

Marketed and distributed by 

208 Pandan Loop | Tel: 6776 2216 | www.boncafe.com 


EXQUISITE | 119

Reviews 

Chef-Owner Sam Aisbett 

WHITEGRASS 

An exciting new menu of popular modern Australian cuisine 

with a unique Asian touch 

Chef-Owner Sam Aisbett enthralls diners with his 

interpretation of inspired Modern Australian cuisine 

with a distinctly Asian touch. The former Head Chef 

of Quay showcases creations free of geographical 

limitations and boundaries. For his new menu, Chef Sam 

Aisbett has drawn inspiration for some of his dishes from 

the local flavours and unique ingredients of his adopted 

home - Singapore. Several of Chef Sam’s dishes also reflect a 

heavy Japanese leaning, showcasing original combinations in 

unostentatious, yet layered, ways. 

Savour Chef Sam’s Australian Jade Tiger Abalone with Three 

Treasures, inspired by a dim sum experience. The abalone 

is baked in a wakame and a salt crust for 6 minutes. It is 

then plated with three treasures that take the form of shitake 

mushrooms, delicately sliced eggplant laced with ginger and 

shallot oil, and green peppercorns for a light peppery taste. 

The meal progresses with a White Cut Free-Range Organic 

Chicken, an homage to Chef Sam’s favourite local dish of 

chicken rice. The chicken is paired with a trio of artichokespickled 

Chinese artichokes, pureed globe artichoke with 

smoked eel oil and fried Jerusalem artichokes for an additional 

crisp layer. House made salted egg yolks, shaved Manjimup 

truffles, salted jelly fish slivers and fresh cobnuts find their way 

onto the plate, adding differing layers of flavours and textures. 

Sashimi of Yellowtail Amberjack. Thin slices of yellowtail 

amberjack encase a delicate horseradish cream. It is paired with 

a green apple dashi jelly before being garnished with pickled 

choko, thinly sliced Japanese cucumbers and sea succulents 

freshly grown in the restaurant’s very own cultivator. The dish 

is finished at the table with a frozen wasabi snow. 

A new main course item of Line Caught Red Sea Bream, is 

served with gently steamed razor clams warmed through with 

kombu butter. The dish receives an accompaniment of sago 

pearl porridge enriched with white turnip puree, chopped 

chives and white quinoa. It is garnished with toasted seaweed 

oil, white turnip discs and nasturtium leaves. 

Dessert highlights include Japanese Niitaka Pear. The pear is 

prepared two ways- compressed and in the form of a granita 

enhanced with a splash of moscato d’ asti. It is accompanied 

with a fresh cultured cream, shiso leaf ice cream and an 

amazaki milk jelly, made from sake lees, milk and sugar. 

Whitegrass 

30 Victoria Street #01-26/27, Singapore 187996 

CHIJMES 

Tel: 6837 0402 

Hours: Lunch Wed - Sat; Dinner Tues - Sat; 

Closed on Sun and Mon. 

www.whitegrass.com.sg 


EXQUISITE | 121

Drinks 

RAVING ABOUT 

RANGPUR GIN 

Tanqueray launches its Rangpur Gin in Asia with 

Singapore the first to enjoy its zesty flavours 

Tanqueray recently launched the Tanqueray Rangpur Gin in Asia, a distilled gin with a zesty citrus 

twist. It is now available across selected bars and restaurants in Singapore, its first Asian city. 

Tanqueray Rangpur Gin takes its name from the Rangpur lime, a unique fruit of the native Indian 

Rangpur tree that blends the zestiness of lime and the juiciness of a Mandarin orange. Distilling 

the Rangpur lime with other botanicals – including bay leaf, ginger and of course juniper – gives 

Tanqueray Rangpur Gin a subtle, yet memorably Asian twist that makes it ideal for a classic 

martini, a highball, or an invigorating shot on the rocks. 

Since its global launch in 2006, Rangpur has won gold, double gold and platinum awards at the 

San Francisco World Spirits Competition in 2007, 2008 and 2009. 

Tanqueray Rangpur Gin achieves the perfect balance of Rangpur lime and other botanicals. On 

the nose, it is highlighted with lots of zest, fresh citrus peel and just-cut botanicals. On the palate, 

it is smooth offering a pleasantly balanced gin flavour that’s instantly recognisable as Tanqueray. 

The finish is smooth, crisp and lemony with the peppery heat from the juniper. 

The new Tanqueray Rangpur Gin retails at S$80 and is sold at Cellarbration retail stores, 

distributed by Singapore Beverages Pte Ltd. www.tanqueray.com 

Cocktails 

David Rios, winner of the 2013 Diageo World Class mixology competition, created a few 

signatures using Tanqueray Rangpur Gin for the launch event 

Bitter Sweet Fizz 

50ml Tanqueray Rangpur 

20ml campari 

15ml pink grapefruit juice 

Top soda water 

Ganish with pink grapefruit 

and mint leaves, and 

serve in a highball or old 

fashioned glass 

Remember the Year 

45ml Tanqueray Rangpur 

30ml pineapple juice 

10ml lemon juice 

10ml simple syrup 

1 barspoon mandarin 

marmalade 

Garnish with lime twist and 

mint leaves, and serve in a 

martini/coupe glass 

122 | EXQUISITE

Our Promise 

100% Australian Grain Fed Fresh Pork 

100% Free from Artificial Colours 

Premium Shoulder Cut 

No Added Preservatives 

kim joo guan traditional bbq sliced pork 

gourmet quality. handmade. 

Flagship Store: 257 South Bridge Road Singapore 058806. Tel: 6225 5257 

www.kimjooguan.com

Reviews 

MONTI – JAZZ WITH A VIEW 

The jazz lounge at The Fullerton Pavilion overlooks Marina Bay and hosts 

intermittent sessions with Jeremy Monteiro 

Monti jazz lounge with an open-air rooftop terrace on 

the Fullerton Waterfront has a musical repertoire that 

includes Monday Blues, Sunday J@M Sessions and 

Postmodern Jukebox style on Thursday nights. 

While most of the musicians may be familiar faces, jazz 

aficionados can expect international, regional and new 

local acts on stage. There are also plans for special guest 

performances by big name international jazz artists in an 

intimate setting that calls to mind the iconic jazz venues such as 

Birdland or Village Vanguard in New York City and Blue Note in 

Tokyo. 

Seasoned industry veterans who are familiar faces in the local 

lounge circuit play live jazz music every night, mixing Classic 

Jazz with Blues, Soul and even more esoteric styles such as 

Skunk Jive. Expect to see the likes of Louis Soliano, Tama Goh, 

Rick Smith, Andrew Lim and Melissa Tham as band regulars. 

Leading the rat pack is Jeremy Monteiro, who curates the 

Monti’s music programme and performs as often as he can. 

On the menu are modern interpretations of Italian fare, and jazzinspired 

cocktails. 

Monti 

82 Collyer Quay, The Fullerton Pavilion, Singapore 049327 

Tel: 6535 0724 

Hours: Mon-Fri: 12pm-1am; Sat & PH: 6pm-1am; 

Sun (Bar and Lounge Only): 6pm to 1am 

www.monti.sg 

124 | EXQUISITE

TEL: 6257 1843 / 6457 3081 

Email: Famouskitchen@singnet.com.sg | Fax: 6455 8619 

No 54 Sembawang Road | #01-01 Hong Heng Mansions | Singapore 779085.

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TEKA SINGAPORE PTE LTD 83, Clemenceau Avenue, #01-33/34, UE Square, Singapore 239920 

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Villa Maria named 4th most 

admired wine brand in the world 

and 1st in New Zealand. 

The highest ranking achieved by a New Zealand winery as voted 

by a poll of more than 200 top international buyers, sommeliers, 

journalists and Masters of Wine from more than 20 countries. 

VILLA MARIA 

MARLBOROUGH VINEYARD 

New Zealand’s Most Awarded Winery 

and now the 4th Most Admired Globally 

VILLAMARIA.CO.NZ

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PARMIGIANI FLEURIER 

Ovale Pantographe: “Guilloché ” 

barley grain dial and gold movement 

www.parmigiani.com 

20 | EXQUISITE

Exquisite May 2017

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