< PreviousBLEU BLANC OYSTERS & GRILL This Southern French farmhouse-style bistro’s signature rustic blue doors, fl oor-to-ceiling lavender garden, wood-fi red hearth and vintage-inspired décor is complemented by clean, fuss-free and wholesome dishes. In their The La Belle Vie Brunch, taking place from 1pm to 4pm on Fridays, the space hosts an array of food and beverage packages, while on Wednesday nights, diners can enjoy a three-course meal with grape pairing. The menu features a selection of premium meat cuts and delicacies from the sea, from Oysters, Mussel pots and Charred King Prawns to Beef Tenderloin Tartare, Celery, Apple Salad and Wood-Roasted Salmon. +971 4 512 5555, bleublanc-dubai.com LIFESTYLE The 100 HarpersBazaarArabia.com/Culture/Interiors Autumn 2020 GRÉGOIRE’S KITCHEN BY OSSIANO Dubai’s award-winning underwater European restaurant, temporarily named Grégoire’s Kitchen by Ossiano, has taken fi ne dining to another level. The space recently reopened in late July. Diners can immerse themselves into a dreamlike underwater world surrounded by sea life. Priced at Dhs475, the restaurant is set to dish out a modern tapas- inspired menu, headed by Chef Grégoire Berger, highlighting 18 individual dishes that are themed around scouting world-renowned fl avours and ingredients. The dishes are reconstructed each week. +971 4 426 0800, atlantis.com FLAMINGO ROOM BY TASHAS A local favourite, this lively hotspot is a more refi ned concept by the well-known brand tashas, whose series of unique and attention-to-detail cafés are redefi ning the idea of a chain restaurant. Founded by restaurateur Natasha Sideris, Flamingo Room’s velvet chairs, sweeping curtains and Art Deco-esque gold detailing, as well as its statement lavish baobab-inspired chandelier exude African glamour, making the restaurant an ideal nightlife destination. Located by Jumeirah Al Naseem’s turtle sanctuary, to which a portion of the restaurant’s profi ts go to, the menu features a roster of contemporary classics with quality ingredients. +971 4 244 7278, fl amingoroombytashas.com HBI_047_100-101_Top Tables_11371827.indd 10004/10/2020 06:44:10 PMCOYA DUBAI Vegans can rejoice, as the fi ne dining establishment, a sister property of Zuma and La Petite Maison, has conjured up meat-free Latin American fl avours, with several gluten-free options through a newly- launched Sunday lunch menu. Turning towards healthy eating and creating a family-friendly environment, dishes such as Papa Seca Colifl or and Esparragos a la Brasa, as well as vegan desserts are now on offer, alongside the restaurant’s signature dishes. +971 4 316 9600, coyarestaurant.com LIFESTYLE The We round up fi ve of the chicest dining spots to try this fall in Dubai, serving exquisite cuisine amidst beautiful décor Words by: IMAN VAKIL & ATHWIFA SALEEM THE LONDON PROJECT With expert mixologists onsite, the trendy Bluewaters Island restaurant The London Project is launching a buy-one-get-two deal on their Tuesday ‘Juniper Nights’, which includes a diverse selection of tonic-infused beverages, fi nished with a fl ourish of fruit and botanical fl avours. The Juniper Nights will also offer visitors the chance to participate in a Dhs10,000 beverage credit raffl e prize, in an ode to the quintessential British refreshment. thelondonproject.com, +971 5 4 306 1822 TOP TABLES HBI_047_100-101_Top Tables_11371827.indd 10104/10/2020 06:44:19 PMTHAI IN DUBAI On the secluded East Crescent of the Palm Jumeirah, Thai luxury resort Anantara The Palm instantly transports visitors to Thailand’s coasts. Arranged around several lagoon pools, white Siam-style low-rise buildings feature red pagoda roofs and evoke the country’s beloved tranquil temples. With true attention to detail, the ornate carvings, fi gurine statues, lotus-fl ower water features and gardens full of exotic fl owers complete the experience. Rickshaws and boats dot the property. It’s the perfect getaway that doesn’t require getting away at all. Room designs are a contemporary take on traditional Thai interiors, with smart and simple dark-wood furnishings, natural wood fl oors and the odd swatch of colour against white linens. All rooms overlook the resort’s lush landscaped gardens and the surrounding serene waters, with ‘Lagoon Access’ rooms even offering direct access. +971 4 567 8888, anantara.com 102 HarpersBazaarArabia.com/Culture/Interiors Autumn 2020 ESCAPEThe HBI_047_102-103_ESCAPE News_11371726.indd 10204/10/2020 06:45:23 PMOur top picks to whet your appetite for travel, fashion and beauty NEWS escape W o rds b y : R eef a y a Noortaj and Iman V akil FLOWY WHITE An elegant white dress remains a classic staple for every woman, one with a contemporary touch. Self- Portrait’s signature light fl owy silhouettes are perfect for the fall season. Self-Portrait. Dhs1,581, self-portrait-studio.com MALAYSIAN HIDEAWAY Nestled on the south-eastern shoreline of Malaysia between lush rainforests and the South China Sea, One&Only Desaru Coast stretches across 128 acres of wild fl ora and a faultless sweep of a private white sandy beach. Each suite is blissfully surrounded by greenery, faces the ocean and features abundant indoor and outdoor spaces. One&Only. +60 7 878 3400, oneandonlyresorts.com Glitzy Strut into 2021 in these gorgeous blue ‘Petal’ pumps, sure to catch everyone’s attention with their captivating structure. Le Silla. Dhs2,622, lesilla.com Vintage Luxury A must-have in your wardrobe this season, the 30 Montaigne sunglasses are inspired by the square 70s-style frames and accentuated by the iconic ‘CD’ signature. Dior. Dhs1,950, dior.com Sunny Vibes Issimo x Solid & Striped Juliana one-shoulder swimsuit at MATCHESFASHION. Dhs750, matchesfashion.com EDITOR’S PICK 103 HarpersBazaarArabia.com/Culture/Interiors Autumn 2020 HBI_047_102-103_ESCAPE News_11371726.indd 10304/10/2020 06:45:33 PMUTTER CALM A seamless blend of luxury and relaxation, Mandarin Oriental Jumeira, Dubai has caught our eye for its gliterring views and inviting décor 104 HarpersBazaarArabia.com/Culture/Interiors Autumn 2020 HBI_047_104-105_ESCAPE_Mandarin Oriental_11371360.indd 10404/10/2020 06:46:59 PMFrom top: A pool view; an interior view of a Mandarin Seafront bathroom; the hotel lobby W ORD S B Y A YESHA SHEHMIR, IMA GES C OUR TES Y OF MAND ARIN ORIENT AL An interior view of a Deluxe Sea View room 105 HarpersBazaarArabia.com/Culture/Interiors Autumn 2020 ESCAPE The panning sweeping vistas of the Arabian Gulf and Dubai’s glittering skyline, every suite at Mandarin Oriental Jumeira, Dubai is designed to transport guests to a world of rejuvenation and luxury. Thoughtfully styled with contemporary décor, handpicked artwork and guest- centric technology, the spacious rooms emanate a sense of timelessness. Featuring fl oor-to-ceiling windows, a beautiful oak-panelled foyer and furnishings comprising a mother-of-pearl inlayed black lacquer chair, the junior suite exudes beauty at every corner. Including a gorgeous open-plan bedroom, a generous living area and bathroom, the design has intertwined comfort with understated luxury, seamlessly. One of the highlights is the elegant marble bathroom, comprising dim lighting, surround sound speakers, a nature- inspired bathtub and Persian travertine fi nishing. And, just a warning, prepare to cancel all plans once you experience the softness of the king-size bed - you’re not getting up anytime soon. Every element, from the meditation music playing at your entrance to the dim lighting, is thoughtfully carried out to awaken the senses and instil a sense of undying peace. While it may be tempting to spend all day lurking inside, the hotel has plenty to explore. The signature contemporary Japanese restaurant Netsu, headed by Chef Ross Shonhan, is ideal for a buzzing ambience and exquisite Japanese cuisine. Made using the traditional warayaki cooking technique, the menu includes an array of favourites by the likes of Spicy Miso Chilean Seabrass and Salmon Teriyaki. Diners also have a choice of maki rolls, steaks and wagyu. For brunch, the famed spot Tasca, headed by Michelin- starred chef José Avillez, boasts fl avours from the streets of Portugal with a contemporary twist, complemented by the al fresco views by the infi nity pool. Luxury designs, a spa-inspired ambience, delectable cuisine and warm hospitality? I think we’ve found the ideal hotel to unwind when looking to escape the daily hustle and bustle of city life. mandarinoriental.com HBI_047_104-105_ESCAPE_Mandarin Oriental_11371360.indd 10504/10/2020 06:47:10 PMA hotspot of the Athenian Riviera, the Vouliagmeni peninsula is the luxe epicentre of a Hellenic lifestyle. Celebrating a triumphant comeback, blending just enough nostalgia with a hefty dose of contempo-glamour, the revamped Four Seasons Astir Palace steps forward as the ultimate Greek odyssey Rebirth of A LEGEND Words by STEFAN HOTTINGER-BEHMER 106 HarpersBazaarArabia.com/Culture/Interiors Autumn 2020 HBI_047_106-107_ESCAPE_Athens_11378737.indd 10604/10/2020 06:48:13 PMhe seaside suburb of Vouliagmeni in Athens has been attracting well- heeled crowds since the 1960s when the legendary Astir Palace fi rst opened its doors to the likes of Frank Sinatra, Brigitte Bardot, Liza Minnelli, Roger Moore and Aristotle Onassis. In its heyday, it was the meeting place of the international jet-set. Fast forward a few decades, add a two-year overhaul close to AED 3 billion, and an army of 700 employees now looks after a modern-day glitterati under the auspices of Four Seasons management, in what has become the beating heart of Athenian social circles, with breathtaking vistas of the Aegean thrown in for good measure. Spread over 30 hectares of prime real estate, the tripartite complex of edifi ces - Arion, Nafsika and the original ‘60s bungalows - unveil a sumptuous urban retreat, courtesy of Greek architecture studio AETER, K-Studio and American architect Meyer Davis. They co-sign the design of the polished décor, while the main restaurants and bar areas have been consigned to Swedish interior architect, Martin Brudnizki. Following the construction of the seaside bungalows in 1961, the Arion building was erected shortly after in 1964, rising elegantly above the half moon-shaped bay in full ‘60s splendour with its clean-lined façade. In 1979 the terraced structure of Nafsika, the preponderant and bouncier part of the resort, was added only a short walk away, impressing with its geometric lines in a construction that cascades down the hillside onto a carefully landscaped pool area. While the original structures have remained relatively untouched, the interiors tell a completely new story. Slathers of refi ned marble fl ooring, a compelling mix of textures in pastel tones and around 2,000 works by contemporary Greek artists create a winning design mix that is both fresh and novel, while respecting the property’s modernist heritage. At the snazzier Nafsika, the rooms bring out all the tricks of modern hospitality including mirrored-walls that masquerade large TV screens, glass-fronted bathrooms and mood lighting. In contrast, the slightly more sober Arion rooms and suites wrap guests into a more grown-up aesthetic of muted beiges, blues and greys. This top-drawer facelift heralds a new era in the long history of this legendary resort, inspired by the grandeur of the original Astir Palace Hotel on the Athenian Riviera and its splendid coastal panorama. ■ fourseasons.com/athens Images c ourt es y of F our Seasons R esorts, Richar d W ait e , K en Seet and the author An exterior view of Four Seasons Astir Palace Exterior and interior views of Four Seasons Astir Palace Stunning water views from Four Seasons Astir Palace 107 HarpersBazaarArabia.com/Culture/Interiors Autumn 2020 ESCAPE The HBI_047_106-107_ESCAPE_Athens_11378737.indd 10704/10/2020 06:48:50 PMA marriage between contemporary Arab art, design and local culture-inspired décor, Andaz Dubai The Palm’s new luxury Premium Suite Collection is designed to melt away all vestiges of stress The bathroom of a Prince Suite at Andaz Dubai The Palm houghtfully designed to evoke all fi ve senses, Palm Jumeirah’s hip beachfront boutique hotel Andaz Dubai The Palm has just unveiled its brand new premium suites, boasting a tech-focused design, lavish, Emirati-inspired interiors and mesmerising panoramic, Arabian Gulf views. The hotel, located in various spots around the world including London, Shanghai and New York, notes inspiration from each region’s culture, hence the motto, “Arrive a visitor and depart a local!” The Dubai destination, placed atop a tranquil private beach and a stone’s throw from Nakheel Mall, is home to a local culture- inspired art collection by Emirati artist Mahmood Alabadi, Japanese restaurant Hanami, organic breakfast spot The Locale AR ABIAN GR A NDEUR 108 HarpersBazaarArabia.com/Culture/Interiors Autumn 2020 HBI_047_108-109_ESCAPE_Andaz_11371557.indd 10804/10/2020 06:51:21 PMWORDS BY A YESHA SHEHMIR, IMAGES COUR TESY OF ANDAZ DUBAI THE P ALM Complete with pale grey and white shades, the master bedroom includes the hotel’s signature curved canopy bed in a pearl fi nish, along with a spacious dressing room. Adorned in a shade of dark grey, the marble bathroom features Island Collection fi ttings by Armani Roca, an ‘I’ll-be-here-all-day’ Jacuzzi and two large experience showers. A balanced blend of Middle Eastern heritage, local culture and modern luxury, there’s a reason Andaz Dubai The Palm has fast become renowned for crafting memorable, tailor-made experiences. With a fresh take on design and art coupled with the generous hospitality, the hotel is designed to be a home away from home. hyatt.com and a serene, cabana pool. Boasting gorgeous skyline views, Hanami serves fresh, Tokyo street food-inspired favourites by the likes of takoyaki, nori tacos, tempura, sushi, moriawase platters, maki rolls and charcoal grill- skewers, while The Locale refl ects the UAE’s identity, boasting organic fl avours and a health-oriented approach. The staycation experience is tailor-made for each guest, with the warm welcome and friendly staff being a highlight. From the moment of stepping inside the elegant lobby, each sense from sight to sense is awakened. Designed with the luxury traveller in mind, the new Premium Suite Collection has intertwined modern comfort with a nod to local design. Each suite, namely the Royal, Prince and Terrace, features ample living and dining space, a kitchen and a wrap- around terrace spanning stunning shoreline vistas. The Royal Suite is home to colourful, vibrant interiors, modern furniture, original artworks and an evocative sculpture and paint installation featuring Arabic calligraphy. The deep, purple leather and forest-green velvet sofas are complemented by the luxury- chic, large dining table coupled with lime leather chairs, which can seat up to twelve guests. The contemporary kitchen is equipped with Gaggenau appliances and grey marble worktops, ideal for entertaining. An interior view of the dining room at a Royal Suite An interior view of a Royal Suite living room 109 HarpersBazaarArabia.com/Culture/Interiors Autumn 2020 ESCAPE The HBI_047_108-109_ESCAPE_Andaz_11371557.indd 10904/10/2020 06:51:30 PMNext >