< PreviousIS L A N D CO U T U R E Contemporary architecture inspired by fashion and art welcomes travellers to SO/ Maldives – a new private island destination where personalisation and culture remain at the heart of the sensorial experience WORDS BY ODELIA MA THEWS, IMAGES COUR TESY OF SO/ MALDIVES Crystalline waters, luscious green foliage and powdery sands capture the senses at SO/ Maldives HBI_060_30-31_Latest So Maldives_13197324.indd 3019/03/2024 13:01 The LATEST Fashion and art are known to inspire cinema, décor, and events, to a level that astounds the senses, and such is the experience when visiting SO/ Maldives. Whether you dream of a destination wedding, a ladies-only getaway, or a lover’s escape to paradise – there’s nothing you can’t do in style at the latest all-villa destination overlooking the Emboodhoo Lagoon. Designed by Ennismore and Accor, under the umbrella of fashion-forward hotels, SO/ Maldives is a luxurious 15-acre enclave kissed by powder-white sands, and cradled by turquoise waters. Eighty overwater villas positioned along jetties look out into the blue ocean. Maldivian culture is magnifi cently interwoven into the décor. “At SO/ Maldives, the integration of Maldivian culture into the experience of art and fashion is a deliberate and thoughtful process,” explains Jesper Soerensen, General Manager of SO/ Maldives. “For instance, the villas have been designed with a keen focus on fashion, reminiscent of celebrity trailers. Th e design is crafted to appreciate the breathtaking beauty of the Maldives, with glass walls and doors that provide an uninterrupted view of the Indian Ocean. Th is architectural choice ensures guests immerse themselves in the stunning landscape, creating a seamless connection between the interior space and the natural surroundings.” And that’s just the beginning. Th e stunning arrival pavilion sets expectations high with a red-carpet worthy welcome experience, and guests are swept over with everything else that unfolds. Th ink ‘sleep pods’ in the family beach-pool villa, sustainably sourced toiletries, plush robes, and concierge service for that extra mile of pampering pleasure. Each of the villas boast an open-plan design, inclusive of a private pool and deck, with a selection of one, three, and eight rooms to choose from to suit the occasion and the size of the party. One of the most visually stunning highlights of the island includes the Lazuli Beach Club. Th e French Riviera-inspired club, with its multi-coloured mosaic pool, gives guests a chance to lounge in the fashion and art-infused décor. “Th e fashion aspect at SO/ Maldives embraces the laid-back island lifestyle,” says Jesper. “Guests are welcomed with their island fashion in mind, encouraging a relaxed and carefree atmosphere. Th e emphasis on freedom to fl aunt one’s fashion and express individual personalities, aligns with the evolving preferences of modern travellers.” And he’s right on the pulse of emerging travel trends that indicate a shift towards properties which give guests a chance to fl aunt their individual style. Th e trio of restaurants creates a well-rounded off ering of cuisine. From casual all-day, Asian-inspired dining at Th e Citronelle Club, to the Mediterranean menu at the Lazuli Beach Club and the Levantine cuisine at Hadaba, there’s much to enjoy for gourmet lovers. For those wanting to rest and rejuvenate, the East-meets-West Wellness Camp is designed with ancient wisdom, modern choices, and maximum personalisation. LED and quartz beds, a Vichy rainforest shower, and a state-of-the-art gym are just some more elements that add to the incredible experience off ered at SO/ Maldives. so-hotels.com/maldives From left: Glass elements ensure the vistas encapsulate guests in amazing beauty; Curated to perfection, the spa is set to rejuvenate guests From top: Repose in the chic overwater and beachfront villas; Arty appreciation through sculptural lighting pops against nature’s sparkle; The villas’ placement ensures sunshine is delivered to your doorstep 31 HarpersBazaarArabia.com/Culture/Interiors Spring 2024 HBI_060_30-31_Latest So Maldives_13197324.indd 3119/03/2024 13:01Clockwise from top: The award-winning Aor chaise lends an edgy accent seating against the smooth bend of the Agogo sofa; Circular layered coff ee table by Reinaldo Lourenço for Breton; Cadeira Maxx chairs bring textural elevation HBI_060_32-33_Latest_ Breton_13211322.indd 3219/03/2024 13:0333 HarpersBazaarArabia.com/Culture/Interiors Spring 2024 WORDS BY ODELIA MA THEWS, IMAGES COUR TESY OF BRETON R E SP ON SI BL E LU X U RY Sustainability, premium quality, and contemporary design set the scene for Brazilian brand Breton’s global expansion Founded in 1967 with a signature style that pays homage to its South American roots, Breton’s legacy spans over fi ve decades. Best known for its contemporary blend of Brazilian design, sustainability, and exquisite craftsmanship, the renowned furniture brand is all set to expand to the Middle East, opening its fi rst international fl agship store in Dubai this month. Located in the premium residential district on Al Wasl Road, the 2,300 square-metre showroom is designed as a home for architects, designers, and creators to experience the essence of curated décor. Encompassing three fl oors, a courtyard garden, and open outdoors areas, this fl agship highlights the family-owned legacy of design through Breton’s range of displayed products. “It is very important for the brand to spread its ideals and values internationally, as well as to carry the name of Brazil and its national design, linked to the quality and sophistication of our products,” says André Rivkind, CEO of Breton. A signature feature of the new fl agship is a glass gallery designed by Brazilian architect Fernanda Marques, which will house the unveiling of her latest furniture collection. With personalisation and distinctive design at the core of all its collections, Breton’s Dubai debut off ers clients the choice to customise every detail, from measurements to fabrics and fi nishes. “Brazilian design is highly appreciated worldwide; our products are well recognised in the architecture and décor universe for their creativity and expression,” says Daniel Pegoraro, Director of Product, Style, and Image for Breton. Adding value to the production process is the brand’s carbon-neutral policy and sustainable practices, which make it the only Brazilian brand of carbon negative furniture. Over a span of fi ve years, Breton’s expansion across the Middle East, Asia, and North America will add to the existing 19 stores in Brazil. Furthering its commitment to environmental and social responsibility, Breton’s Dubai unit will adhere to sustainability practices which are followed in Brazil, including waste recycling, and a reverse logistics programme for packaging. Th is also includes the commitment that for every order placed at the Breton store in Dubai, a tree will be planted in the Atlantic Forest according to the brand’s partnership with the SOS Mata Atlântica Foundation. Featuring muted tones complemented impeccably by natural elements such as marble, stone, and wood, the fl agship showroom represents Breton’s eco-conscious approach to design and is a testament to the elegance of Brazilian fl air, meticulous craftsmanship, and indeed the work of prominent Brazilian designers. If responsible design, sophistication, luxury, as well as comfort is what you’re looking for, Breton’s innovative approach is a refreshing promise of quality and delivery that makes for a true win when it comes to people, the planet, and purposeful consumption. breton-middleeast.com Breton’s commitment to sustainable practices embodies planet-conscious wisdom HBI_060_32-33_Latest_ Breton_13211322.indd 3319/03/2024 13:03AR AB IAN HA V E N Raffl es Al Areen Palace Bahrain is a serene sanctuary that connects the heart with nature in a grand way A space to pause, the writer’s lounge invites one to dive into pages amidst a fairy-tale settingWORDS BY ODELIA MATHEWS IMAGES COURTESY OF RAFFLES AL AREEN PALACE BAHRAIN HBI_060_34-35_Latest Raffles_13202618.indd 3421/03/2024 12:49There are just a few places that can refresh your mind, body and soul all at once, and the Raffl es Al Areen Palace in Bahrain happens to be one such gem. Cocooned within the lush surrounding on the Island of a Million Palm Trees, this resplendent palace with 78 private pool villas doesn’t miss a detail. Right from the greeting by the palace’s doormen to the legendary butler service that Raffl es is best known for, guests are spoiled for choice at Bahrain’s fi rst and only all-villa property. Arabian hospitality becomes the calling card for an unforgettable stay here, where design, art, intricate patterns, regional motifs, and the celestial mashrabiya- inspired 360-degree ceiling design all meet to refl ect a taste of Arabian architecture. Th e most stunning aspect of the property is without doubt, the natural horticulture, exotic plants and fi ne fl ora that accentuate the experience to resemble a secret sanctuary nestled within historic date palms and sprawling gardens. Just a stone’s throw away is a wildlife reserve beckoning guests to explore exotic animals, rare birds, and desert plants. Once checked in at either of the one, two and three-bedroom villas which boast private pools and personal butlers, guests can enjoy in-villa spa treatments exuding the true Arabian night ambience featuring special lights, Arabic scents, and natural ingredients from Bahrain. Activities that highlight the culture and heritage of the land include basket weaving, garden cooking, date harvesting, herbal workshops, and pearl diving to immerse one fully into the history of the country. A highlight of the hotel includes the expansive library, a writer’s lounge which is Bahrain’s iteration of Raffl es’ signature writers bar, and a spectacular art collection celebrating the works of local artists. For those with a keen interest in gastronomy, Raffl es Al Areen Palace does not disappoint, thanks to Executive Chef Ruchi Th ammitage who incorporates Bahraini culture into every meal. Palma, the all-day Mediterranean restaurant sources herbs and vegetables from local farms, while private dining experiences become the cherry on top. Th ink a unique romantic dining experience for two, including an intimate set-up with 200 candles, or choose between a range of options such as farm-to-table, blindfold dining, or nomad dining and more – all of which include curated menus and complete attention to detail. Th e world-famous pastry Chef Yazid Ichemrahen from Ycone Paris is another highlight that will delight those with a sweet tooth. Located to the South of Manama, which is less than an hour away from the Bahrain airport, Raffl es Al Areen Palace is surrounded by the Bahrain International F1 Circuit, the Lost Paradise of Dilmun Waterpark, Sports City Bahrain and the Al Dana amphitheatre. Whether you’re looking for a destination wedding or private event, the manicured gardens and decorated canopies set against tropical greenery and Arabian architecture are sure to leave one mesmerised. raffl es.com/bahrain Above and below: Pools for cool repose, trees aplenty, geometric motif-lined surfaces and a clean, white-dominated palette meld to bring forth a soothing oasis steeped in culture and nature The LATEST 35 HarpersBazaarArabia.com/Culture/Interiors Spring 2024 HBI_060_34-35_Latest Raffles_13202618.indd 3521/03/2024 12:48CU ST O M CLO S E TS A trendsetter in the UAE’s furniture industry, Al Huzaifa has unveiled its latest vertical, designed to elevate the living experience like never before HBI_060_36-37_Latest_Huzaifa_13220256.indd 3619/03/2024 13:1037 HarpersBazaarArabia.com/Culture/Interiors Spring 2024 WORDS BY DANA SHARA WNEH, IMAGES COUR TESY OF AL HUZAIF A Below: Al Huzaifa’s Design Studio envelopes a scope of customisation based on the wealth of experience garnered over decades, translated into turning a living space into a fashion statement. From joinery with advanced CNC capabilities to metalworking, the possibilities are endless Luxury furniture house Al Huzaifa has revealed its new design studio – translating visions into highly personalised and cutting-edge living spaces. Th e studio’s overarching mission is to create, compose, and curate dream homes. “With a wealth of insight gained over decades of working closely with our customers, we were inspired to paint a larger picture – furniture and beyond,” shares Saif Nensey, CEO of Al Huzaifa. “Th is vision shapes our growth, as we add verticals, expand our off erings to deliver a comprehensive solution and enrich the customer experience.” Th e design studio is one such vertical, embodying Al Huzaifa’s innovative ‘furniture and beyond’ philosophy. Th e bold and advanced unit is committed to creating customised living spaces in accordance with its clients’ signature styles and wishes. Harnessing the power of in-house manufacturing excellence, the studio off ers a seamlessly integrated experience – from inspiration down to installation – creating, composing, and curating ideal spaces. Spanning 12,000 square feet, the space features a vast gallery of signature closets – including reconfi gurable winery cabinets, TV cabinets and teenage bedroom solutions – translating customers’ needs into bespoke solutions courtesy of Al Huzaifa’s expert team of design consultants. Boasting meeting rooms where customers can browse a vast library of materials, the closets, characterised by an innovative and diverse repertoire of closet systems, represent the pinnacle of customisation and functionality – opening up a world of possibilities for the living space. “Precision meets personalisation in our design studio, where innovation isn’t just a buzzword – it’s what we do,” declares Saif. “We’ve leveraged our robust manufacturing platform to redefi ne the art of customised interiors.” Featuring everything from walk-in closets to pole-system minimalism, the closets and studio at large are synonymous with Al Huzaifa’s refi ned sense of luxury and consistent commitment to artisanal excellence. Conceptualised by Nissa Nensey, Al Huzaifa’s co-founder, the studio is a stone’s throw away from the Al Wasl showroom. Th e signature closets portion leads into a vast space within the same showroom, where Al Huzaifa’s exquisite outdoor furniture collection can be viewed. Illuminated with natural light, the outdoor furniture section was designed to bring the outdoors inside, creating a warm, inviting, and airy ambience to sit back and relax. “Th is isn’t just about furniture; it’s about crafting your signature style at a whole new level,” expresses Saif. “Signature closets represent the fusion of manufacturing excellence and bold customisation. Luxury tailored to you, quite literally.” alhuzaifa.com HBI_060_36-37_Latest_Huzaifa_13220256.indd 3719/03/2024 16:3638 HarpersBazaarArabia.com/Culture/Interiors Winter 2023 Italian interior artist Gio Bressana’s inaugural Middle East showroom is a testament to his mission of bringing beauty through tailored design THE HIDDEN GARDEN The Hidden Garden shows Gio Bressana’s design prowess in melding classic painting techniques with pieces for living spaces HBI_060_38-39_Latest_ Gio bressana_13180476.indd 3819/03/2024 13:12 The LATEST 39 HarpersBazaarArabia.com/Culture/Interiors Spring 2024 “Each piece is a signed work of art, a unique fusion of functionality as well as aesthetics” Gi o B r e s s a n a Known for pushing the boundaries of creative expression, renowned Italian interior artist Gio Bressana has, this time, brought his mastery to the Middle East with ‘Th e Hidden Garden’ – his very fi rst art and design showroom in the region. Noting inspiration from nature, the immersive studio located in Dubai Design District (D3) eff ortlessly merges luxury with creativity, and off ers discerning clients a design story that is completely curated and authentically personalised. “My D3 showroom is more than a space, it's a canvas with crafted furniture that transcends function – each piece is a signed work of art, a unique fusion of functionality as well as aesthetics, that invites you to savour every detail,” explains Gio. Th rough his early work with internationally renowned masters, Gio specialised in multiple painting methods and arts. Artistically emulating the Renaissance, Gothic, Baroque, and Neoclassical styles, Gio now paints on furniture, walls and fabrics using ancient techniques and modern tools. A tranquil garden fresco mural that creates an ethereal environment is Clockwise from top: A distinct fl oral mural captures attention and sets the tone for the space; The Hidden Garden in Dubai draws inspiration from 19th-century tea gatherings which took place in winter gardens; Each feature is imbued with artistic fl air WORDS BY SAIRA MALIK, IMAGES COUR TESY OF GIO BRESSANA the focal point in the studio, and is contrasted with a bold bull sculpture and a lighting fi xture that resembles a fl owering tree. Th e sustainable capsule furniture line is designed by Gio and his creative partner, Simonne Chevalier. With a knack for surrealism, the unconventionally curated yet functional design pieces by the Italian artisans, are all handcrafted through the use of natural materials. Gio enthuses, “Th e narrative behind Th e Hidden Garden in Dubai is a journey back to the 19th century, where exclusive winter gardens hosted tea gatherings. Beyond nostalgia, my concept goes on to embrace eco-sustainability and the allowance for nature to be able to truly reclaim its space.” A master of interior art, Gio’s approach to design is about personalisation and crafting extraordinary living spaces that cannot be replicated; as each one harbours a unique essence. “In Dubai, I sense a genuine desire to embrace the new and exclusive, a profound love for art. My goal here is to infuse my passion into creating beautiful spaces and exchanging styles and energies, ushering in new concepts and trends in a region hungry for creativity.” giobressana.com HBI_060_38-39_Latest_ Gio bressana_13180476.indd 3919/03/2024 13:13Next >