New Tiffany & Co. Shanghai at the Hong Kong Plaza opens amidst higher Sales Growth in China 2020

The brand’s new flagship in Hong Kong Plaza also brings mainland China’s first Tiffany Blue Box cafe and an unforgettable dining experience

By PRINCE CHAHAL

Since Alessandro Bogliolo took the helm as Tiffany & Co’s Chief Executive in 2017, he’s been seriously ramping up the jeweller’s presence in China. From launching new stores within the mainland to commissioning jewellery inspired by Chinese motifs, CEO Bogliolo’s strategy appears to be working when it reported estimated sales growth of 1 – 3% on 26 December 2019 with growth largely contributed by China.

Announced within the week following the re-opening of Tiffany & Co.’s Shanghai flagship at Hong Kong Plaza, Bogliolo officiated the celebrations, commenting to media present that “the Chinese Mainland drove overall sales growth with a robust double-digit increase, offsetting persisting declines within the Hong Kong market.”

New Tiffany & Co. Shanghai at the Hong Kong Plaza opens amidst reports of upper Sales Growth in China
The 182-year-old ny jeweller was recently acquired by LVMH as competition within the luxury industry between conglomerates continues to accentuate amidst tepid consumer demand in traditional US and Eurozone markets and heated battlegrounds Eastward particularly in China and therefore the Asia Pacific region.

The improvement of Tiffany & Co.’s estimated sales growth is encouraging as long as prolonged trade war between the us and therefore the second largest economy within the world has impacted specialist watch and jewellery brands including Tiffany for the last two years.

The completely renovated Tiffany & Co. Shanghai flagship store boasts a replacement prominent street facing location and around 10,000 square fee of retail space, almost double its previous boutique within Hong Kong Plaza, making it the most important Tiffany store in North Asia.

A transparent, blue-lit glass facade fronts the spacious temple to jewellery, home to haute joallerie just like the famed Tiffany & Co. Schlumberger Bird on a Rock, only one of several high-end bijoux starting from $100,000 to millions. Tiffany’s new Shanghai boutique exhibits contemporary expressions of timeless brand elements, from Amazonite features and white marble detailing, to expansive elegant glass showcases displaying a full range of jewelry . Tiffany & Co’s Shanghai flagship in Hong Kong Plaza stands akin a beacon of hope as income for the Nov. 1 to Christmas Eve period rose 5 to 7% within the Asia-Pacific.

Tiffany & Co. Schlumberger® Bird on a Rock clip in platinum and 18k gold with an emerald-cut tanzanite and diamonds.

“Designed with our clients in mind, this new store may be a testament of our commitment to our clientele in Greater China. By expanding our Shanghai flagship store, we still grow with this global city,” – Philippe Galtié, Tiffany & Co.’s Executive vice chairman of worldwide Sales

Introducing China’s second Tiffany Blue Box Cafe
A mix of classic and modern aesthetics, Tiffany also introduces an in-store novelty: China’s second Tiffany Blue Box Cafe (the first opened on One Peking Road in Hong Kong). Situated on the upper level of the Hong Kong Plaza flagship, the Tiffany Blue Box Cafe offers a one-of-a-kind dining experience.

The first Tiffany Blue Box Cafe opened in Hong Kong China.

“80% of consumers of luxury in China are millennials. i actually wanted to bring back China, to Shanghai … the flagship experience you’ll have in ny .” – Bogliolo to CNN Business

Floor-to-ceiling glass windows offer views into the long-lasting Tiffany Blue dining room, bringing the Tiffany Blue Box experience to life. A glass-enclosed circular opening onto the atrium entrance and a handcrafted two-story chandelier suspended from the carved circular ceiling cove visually connect the cafe with the shop below.

Shanghai’s Tiffany Blue Box Cafe may be a first for the mainland

The new Tiffany Shanghai flagship brings together cutting-edge technology with sustainable interior design—incorporating special materials and energy-saving elements that make the space LEED compliant, an indistrial benchmark for sustainability and eco-friendliness.

Much like Jeff Goldblum’s irrepressible joy at discovering the hidden wonders of the Tiffany Men’s collection pop-up, the new Tiffany & Co Shanghai boutique emphasises playfulness, introducing personalisation counters and Blue Box wrapping stations additionally to the newly launched men’s collections and residential & Accessories lines.

McKinsey reported that Chinese shoppers accounted for a 3rd of worldwide consumption on luxury goods to a tune of $115 billion and with the Chinese govt lowering tariffs and taxes to scale back the daigou strategy where travellers imported and sold luxury goods into the mainland, Chinese consumers are making more purchases reception instead of shopping overseas. Bain reported that Chinese consumers made 27% of their luxury purchases in China in 2018, up from 23% in 2015.

Get Into Vacation Mode With Palace 25

PALACE 25 paves the way for you to have your very own dwelling in key countries like Singapore, Malaysia, uk , Switzerland, and Thailand.

Dec 30, 2019 | By PRINCE CHAHAL

PALACE 25 gears you up for the simplest vacation homes that cash can purchase . From our very tiny red dot to luxurious homes within the Swiss alps, we present some very exciting homes in key countries which also includes Malaysia, Thailand, Australia, uk to call a couple of . On the duvet is that the chic Conlay project located at the guts of Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia.

Palace 25 – Vacation Homes

Our Special Report puts the spotlight on Vacation Homes – think sprawling resort homes in Phuket or enjoy skiing on the snow-capped mountains within the Swiss alps where a home awaits you after your wintry adventure. Olha Romanuik, our architecture-trained journalist, writes about the important features in vacation abodes – from must-have amenities to striking architectural features. Our Editor-At-Large Sophie Kalkreuth presents a Top 10 pick of dwelling developments across the planet with views and amenities you can’t say no to. Her choice includes Kukui’ula in Hawaii where verdant landscapes and sugar plantations greet a four-bedroom villa designed by Olson Kundig Architects, or enjoys an expansive property offering five en-suite bedrooms, 12-seat media room during a development called Luxueux in Australia where cattle roam in pastures with a 180-tree avocado orchard to beckon you to urge into harvest mode.

Luxueux, Australia

As with all our Features spreads, we present interesting architecture and interior design trends that feature iconic creations in Asia where our roving reporter Philipp Kristian Diekhöner discovers a up to date Oriental tea house in Bangkok called Peace Oriental Tea House. He also sets foot on a Bill Bensley-designed hospitality project Capella Ubud where locally-made furniture and fixtures create a country but luxurious pity guests to reap the spoils. Olha Romanuik dives into the spectacular works of how tropical-designed homes – one in Brazil and another in Spain – can blend with their climate, endure the weather and absorb the absorbing views altogether. examine this Hollywood dwelling here.

Jungle House by Studio MK27

Our revered section PALACE Lifestyle is spot on to spot a number of the furniture trends from big brands like Minotti, Boffi and B&B Italia. We get to know the master designers behind these brands and the way their timeless designs still introduce panache in many luxury homes across the planet . Jonathan Ho revs up the new Range Rover’s Evoque to get how its latest vehicular iteration shines in refinement, power and opulent details.

Lawson sofa system by Rodolfo Dordoni for Minotti

We also present a number of the more enthralling river cruises offered by Uniworld whose “hotel on boats” are decorated to a hilt to supply guests an enticing and pampered cruise in renowned rivers like the River Rhine in Germany where you’ll absorb the Teutonic and Gallic views all directly .

Tottenham Court Road West

So let Palace 25’s pages prep you for an additional insightful read to empower you thru 2020. load with the knowledge to take a position in another category of luxury properties – vacation homes – and you’ll probably include it in your investment portfolio. Lastly, don’t forget to see out one among London’s most sought-after luxury properties – Tottenham Court Road West. This beguiling property is smacked within the heart of London’s rich theater precinct!

Prana Breathes New Life into Indonesia Charter Market

Inspired by the Sanskrit word for all times force, Prana breathes new life into Indonesia’s luxury charter market with nine suites and 900sqm of lebensraum , as Michael Howorth discovers

By PRINCE CHAHAL

If proof was needed that traditionally built craft are playing an increasingly significant part in Asia’s luxury charter market, then you would like look no further than Prana by Atzaro, launched within the middle of 2018.
Prana by Atzaro's four decks offer 900sqm of living space
Prana by Atzaro’s four decks offer 900sqm of lebensraum
Prana by Atzaro’s four decks offer 900sqm of lebensraum

The Atzaro Group, whose other ventures include a luxury hotel in Ibiza, took great pride in both the inside and exterior details of this majestic ironwood and teak phinisi that was built by Yacht Sourcing in southeast Sulawesi – on the beach, even as her cargo-carrying ancestors were.

With a design inspired by the traditional boat-building traditions of the seafaring Bugis tribe, this two-masted ketch was constructed using those self same time-honoured techniques. The yacht took 21 months to finish , from the laying of the keel, hull and bulkheads to finishing the superstructure, decks and soft furnishing.

Designed with luxury and space in mind, this remarkable phinisi superyacht offers guests comfort and facilities across quite 900sqm of useable space on four decks.

Guest accommodation comprises an astonishing nine suites, each with its own private en-suite bathroom. Fully soundproofed, the elegant suites are decorated with sumptuous vintage fabrics and contemporary linens during a sophisticated palette.

The Batavia main bedroom , arguably the yacht’s flagship room
The Batavia master suite, arguably the yacht’s flagship room The Batavia main bedroom , arguably the yacht’s flagship room

Wellness may be a key element within the Prana by Atzaro ethos, therefore the yacht even has its own yoga deck and two spa therapists to administer treatments outside, in-room or inside the peaceful Atelier de Beauté, using Anne Sémonin products.

Her charter appeal is enhanced by the immense social areas, including formal dining both indoors and out of doors , while the yoga terrace, a fanatical spa, a watersports platform and a cinema under the celebs also help make her one among the foremost in-demand charter yachts in eastern Indonesia.

A SOURCE OF PRIDE

Prana is that the Central Agency flagship of Voyage by Yacht Sourcing, the builder’s charter division, which hired and trained the crew, and manages the boat’s day-to-day operations. Voyage won Best Asia- Based Charter Company (Phinisi) at the 2019 Christofle Yacht Style Awards in Phuket due in large to the recognition of the new vessel.

The charter company’s impressive range of phinisis also included Lamima, Zen, Silolona, Alexa, Adelaar and Samata, plus motor yachts including the 50m Kudanil Explorer. However, Prana holds a special place within the company’s heart for obvious reasons.

Prana offers its famous fine dining and five-star service on the beach of your choice
Prana can offer its famous fine dining and five-star service on the beach of your choice
Prana offers its famous fine dining and five-star service on the beach of your choice

“Prana is that the biggest yacht we’ve built and may be a special project due to our ongoing relationship with Atzaro. and since we manage the crew and therefore the boat, we confirm Prana and therefore the experience on board reflects Yacht Sourcing’s principles,” said Boum Senous, co- founding father of Yacht Sourcing and its Director of Operations.

“We brought tons of recent engineering to a standard design, so focused tons on fuel economy, waste management – even the kinds of toiletries used – to scale back the impact. I also just like the incontrovertible fact that a number of the revenue are going to be wont to help replant trees in Sulawesi. All folks are committed to growing this industry in Indonesia within the right way.”

At 411GT, Prana is larger than most luxury phinisis and measures over 55m overall long including her elegant bowsprit and overhanging stern, yet this flat-bottomed craft draws just 3.7m.

Admittedly, her massive, 11.6m beam gives her a ‘fat lady’ look on the water and her big boxy accommodation makes her look a touch top heavy as she sails along, but tread on board and you’ll soon see that she’s is made for comfort, as you wander through the well-appointed interior.

To be a phinisi, the craft should carry seven sails, only two of which are carried on the mizzen or aft mast.

Spa therapists can work indoors or out, and even on the beach

Spa therapists can work indoors or out, and even on the beach

Made of white cotton duck canvas, the sails are now often more for show than action, but fortunately the only Yanmar 850 engine and four-bladed propeller push Prana along at a handsome eight knots, which is fast enough around this a part of the planet .

We enjoyed a week-long charter in Raja Ampat, a foreign archipelago covering quite 40,000sqkm and featuring over 1,500 rambling Indonesian islets. Famous for his or her Jurassic-like beauty, these islands are set among cays, coral reefs and shoals like rough jewels during a cerulean sea.

Located off the northwest tip of the island of Papua within the Far East of Indonesia, they lie at the purpose where the Pacific becomes the Indian Ocean . The resulting currents fire up nutrient-rich water within the tropical climate, nurturing magnificent coral reefs and unparalleled marine life.

SPACE, LUXURY AND VIEWS GALORE

Prana may be a sensational choice for an outsized group of family or friends, with accommodation for up to twenty guests in its nine lavish cabins, all air-conditioned.

On the deck behind the bridge is that the sumptuous Batavia main bedroom , with its super king-size bed, double wardrobe, lounge and writing desk. Huge wrap-around, floor-to-ceiling windows open out on to its spacious 20sqm private deck overlooking the strict . The en-suite bathroom features a double shower and twin vanities.

Arguably the yacht’s flagship room, the Batavia main bedroom and its private terrace are situated at the aft end of the deck
The main bedroom and its private terrace are situated at the aft end of the deck

Also on the deck is that the 37sqm Uluwatu VIP suite, which we occupied and features a super king-size bed, dramatically large windows on each side and an en-suite bathroom. We were very comfortable living here!

As if more lounging area is required , forward of the Captain’s cabin and therefore the wheelhouse are four large king-size daybeds.

To starboard are the steps up to the yoga deck, which is that the equivalent of the sundeck and may even be converted into a cinema under the celebs . Oversize sun loungers over here catch the ocean breeze and offer the simplest view of the passing scenery.

The main deck features a vast open-plan saloon with a powerful board for entertaining. There’s also al fresco dining for up to 18 on two long tables outside on the foredeck, which also features large daybeds, ideal for lounging day or night.

Prana offers enormous living areas and has formal dining for 20 both inside and outdoors
Prana has formal dining for 20, both inside and outdoors

There’s also another guest suite, Ambon, on the most deck, while at the aft end may be a water sports centre equipped for diving, snorkelling, kayaking, paddleboarding, waterskiing and wakeboarding.

There are six double suites on the third deck featuring private en- suite bathrooms, mini fridges, Smart TV and sound systems, although quite what the TVs are used for, nobody on our charter ever found out!

Each deck features oversized gangways and enormous daybeds scattered around all the open areas, offering abundant places to retreat and relax.

A WINNING COMBINATION

Prana may be a winner, not only in terms of yacht design but also in terms of crew and activities. The chef, Fauzi, creates Western and Asian fusion dishes with fresh local ingredients, paired with fine wines from the extensive cellar selection.

All are served by discreet staff, either outside under the celebs , within the cool of the air-conditioned dining room or maybe on a white-sand beach, Robinson-Crusoe style, for true barefoot luxury.

After dinner, guests can relax at the open-air cinema or enjoys a pampering spa treatment. within the morning, because the wind catches the sails, take a yoga class on the highest deck. Sun salutations will never be an equivalent again.

Guests can enjoy stunning views as they practise yoga on the highest deck

Guests can enjoy stunning views as they practise yoga on the highest deck

The 18-man crew includes a Cruise Director, Dive Instructor, several chefs, stewards and expert spa therapists; all available to deliver a seamless experience and to make sure all of your needs are met.

A voyage on Prana by Atzaro offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience during a truly special a part of Asia, with the chance to explore one among the world’s most exquisite coral reefs at Komodo park , a UNESCO World Heritage Site, from June to October.

December to April is that the season to go to the 1,500 islands that structure Raja Ampat, which incorporates world-class diving, prehistoric caves and primordial tribes, while trips are offered to the Banda Islands (‘Spice Islands’) in May and November.

With fine dining, on-board spa treatments, unlimited water sports, unforgettable diving and therefore the chance to go to a number of the world’s most beautiful heritage sites, Prana encapsulates a special unison between ancient craftsmanship and contemporary luxury.

charter@yachtsourcing.com

Rolls-Royce Presents one among This Generation’s Greatest Phantoms

Launched in December 2019, The Rolls-Royce Phantom features a million hand-stitched designs of an immersive and beguiling floral scene.

By Prince Chahal

A million stitches and innumerable bouquets later… British multinational engineering company, Rolls-Royce proudly presented its latest bespoke automobile, this past December 2019. Challenged and commissioned by a Stockholm-based entrepreneur with a unprecedented fixation for flowers, the brand’s designers, craftsmen, and engineers worked tirelessly to see a car with a beguiling floral scene. The result? one among the best Rolls-Royce Phantoms of this generation.

Rolls-Royce Presents one among This Generation’s Greatest Phantoms

Inspired by the Rolls-Royce garden in Goodwood, West Sussex , designer Ieuan Hatherall, aimed to both materialize and recreate the innate feelings of admiration whilst witnessing a garden’s full bloom. In his comments, Hatherall added, “There may be a transcendent beauty when a garden is fully bloom. The patron wanted to make that very same feeling of awe; an abundance of flowers to lift the spirit and celebrate nature’s decadent beauty, within the Rose Phantom’s serene interior.”

Featuring a greenish blue exterior, the Phantom is punctuated with a Charles Blue twinned-coachline. Intertwining seamlessly just like the stem of a rose – the mixture , itself, alludes to the car’s intended rose motif, while indicating the colours and therefore the treatment within.

Embellished with a Charles Blue twinned pinstripe, the wheels of this beauty echo the general design, as more floral surprises await inside.

Upon entrance, passengers are met with meticulously embroidered rear doors, and illustrations of the Phantom Rose in its varying stages of maturity on the rear cabin. From bud to full bloom, the asymmetrical design appears to stretch beyond the rear and across the roof lining. Illuminated by the marque’s fabled starlight headliner, the roses are interspersed with individually placed fibre-optic lights.

Featuring Serenity Seating with a soft calf rest cushion during a sumptuous Charles Blue leather, accented by greenish blue piping – passengers are treated to a front row seat of the Phantom’s interior centerpiece, where a spectacle of embroidered rose stems climb through the glass fronted fascia and color the shape of Peacock and Adonis Blue butterflies are introduced on command.

In a collaborative effort, the Phantom’s umbrellas and exterior hue were designed and determined by the patron and his family – producing a product, Chief Executive of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, Torsten Müller Ötvös proudly deems irreplicable.

New Richard Mille RM 33-02 showcases brand’s Evolutionary and Experimental Boldness

Almost 10 years on, Richard Mille’s first Extra Flat round watch undergoes a change with the utilization of Carbon TPT under Directeur technique Julien Boillat

Jan 06, 2020 | By Prince Chahal

First introduced in 2011, the Richard Mille RM 033 extra flat was unconventional for a maison which had made its signature timepieces within the sort of an industrial looking, yet aesthetically sumptuous curvaceous tonneau-shaped case with a totally exposed, three-dimensional skeletonised movement from launch till 2006.

Since its founding in 2001, Richard Mille’s “Racing machine on wrist” ethos was exemplified in its state-of-the-art horological swagger, ushering a replacement phase for horology with its ultra-light high performance mechanisms synonymous with the Formula 1 instead of luxury watch industry. By 2007, Richard Mille finally departed from the shape which made it famous, introducing a replacement collection of curved, rectangular case called the RM 016. it had been only a matter of your time before the fashionable horologists deigned to allow us to witness their interpretation of the normal round watch.

These robust RM 025 Chronograph and therefore the RM 028 Diver watches eventually led to the refined Extra Flat series

New Richard Mille RM 33-02 showcases brand’s Evolutionary and Experimental Boldness
By 2009, Richard Mille’s first round watch came within the sort of two robust diving watches – the RM 025 Chronograph and therefore the RM 028 Diver – at 50.7 mm wide and a thickness of 19.2 mm, these timepieces were absolutely behemoth keep with the days . Hence, when Richard Mille released the RM 033 extra flat in 2011, with a thickness of just 6.3 mm, shaving off 2mm from their first dress watch, the RM 016, the 45mm Richard Mille RM 033 Extra Flat with ultra lightweight titanium case and exclusive Vaucher movement (re-christened RMXP1) combined with sensuously curved case-back and tapered lugs, was finally the sports luxury timepiece that didn’t require a Stallonesque physique to tug off.

With the Richard Mille RM 033, the maison re-imagined their quintessential sports luxury watch into a stunning chic sports model using the gorgeous , subdued aesthetics of the circle then bound morpheme with functional elegance of a curved, slim profile with a contrasting strictly horizontal bezel depart with eight high-polished spline screws.

Another eight spline screws, chosen for precision torque control (english: reduces probability of over-screwing) secures the exhibition case-back which exposes the exquisite 2.6mm thin Vaucher movement. multiple iterations and eight years on, the Richard Mille RM 33-02 overseen by Directeur technique Julien Boillat, the atelier’s slimmest, dressiest timepiece finds new interpretation of the brand’s first ultra-thin round watch. Returning in gold another time , the outside decoration, case and dial are reworked to project a sportier vibe.

Limited Edition Richard Mille RM 33-02 Automatic now in Carbon TPT
Juxtaposing soft gold with the strength of Carbon TPT, the new Richard Mille RM 33-02 is additionally the brand’s first round Carbon TPT automatic watch. The new aesthetics are bold to mention the smallest amount , the textures of woven carbon leave behind the quiet refinement of brushed and satinated surface treatments on previous editions of the RM 33 Extra Flat. This new design is amid an equally bold face like a computer circuit board. Suffice it to mention , the newest Richard Mille RM 33-02 conjures mixed emotions.

Nevertheless, the treatment of the movement is everything you’ve come to expect from a brand which makes racing machines from the wrist – observing the wet sandblasted and Titalyt-treated baseplate may be a joy, as are the microblasted, stretched and satin-finished surfaces, and therefore the anglage—all produced entirely by hand – accentuating depth and volume by twiddling with shadow and lightweight because of the highly graphic skeletonisation. Again, the design of the new Richard Mille RM 33-02 won’t be everyone’s cup of tea, considering previous, more understated variations of the additional Flat. The RM 33-02 Automatic is out there as
a edition of 140 timepieces.

New Richard Mille RM 33-02 Price and Specs
Movement Self winding RMXP1 with 45 hours power reserve
Case 45.7mm Carbon TPT and rose gold case with 30 metres water resistance
Strap Rubber
Price On Application

The Exquisite Splendour of Aishwarya’s Longines DolceVita Elegance Celebration

Eastern Sanskrit Mandala engraved upon Turquoise mother of pearl elevates this rose gold Longines DolceVita edition into a realm of rare handicrafts

Jan 6, 2020 | By Prince Chahal

aishwarya Rai Bachchan

Aishwarya Rai Bachchan has been Longines Ambassador of Elegance since 1999 and it had been only a matter time before the embrace of St Imier’s ethos for “Elegance is an attitude” was fully incorporated with the Indian model-actress’s cultural heritage in their ladies Longines DolceVita collection.

The latest Longines DolceVita Elegance edition inspired by Aishwarya marries the elegance of the1920s art movement rectangular form, the refinement of Italian sprezzatura and irrepressible che gioia vivere with the ornate artistry of Indian mandala motifs finely engraved in white mother of pearl and accessorised with diamond indexes.

The Exquisite Splendour of Aishwarya’s Longines DolceVita Elegance Celebration
In the Indian religions of Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, a mandala bears spiritual connotations as representations of deities and employed by monastic adepts and holy men for focusing attention or as a spiritual aid for meditation. In contemporary times, the appropriation of these mesmerising geometric diagrams and thus the shortage of cultural or religious understanding has seen a more global understanding of this Eastern artform together representative of the metaphysical cosmos. On Aishwarya’s Longines DolceVita Elegance Celebration, the edition watch could also be a logo of classic modernity embellished with 68 diamonds set within the frame of its rose gold case.

It’s perhaps a missed opportunity by St Imier that this edition is technically speaking (via case dimensions 23mm x 37mm) for girls , but consider that a classic JLC Reverso or Cartier Basculante was only slightly bigger at 24mm x 38mm, making the argument that if a gentleman so desired (and indeed, the collectors at The Watch Club Asia will attest), Aishwarya’s DolceVita Elegance Celebration concocted with Longines could potentially be an exquisite men’s dress watch also , much to what one presumes to be the chagrin of feminists and yet another example of “men taking what should rightfully belong to women” but World of Watches features a more enlightened view – acquisition of the edition Aishwarya’s Longines DolceVita Elegance Celebration are often a mutual passion shared by two and thus the mandala, a logo of spiritual unity with the deific source.

The Longines DolceVita Elegance Celebration is numbered and limited to five pieces, edition #1 is kept at the brand’s Museum in St-Imier while edition #5 is worn by Ms. Aishwarya Rai Bachchan herself.

Limited Edition Longines DolceVita Elegance Celebration Price & Specs
Movement L176.2 ETA Quartz
Case 23mm rose gold with 30 metres water resistance
Strap Matching turquoise leather
Price On application

The Aviary, Siem Reap’s designer Boutique Hotel with a love for Cambodian artists

Siem Reap has been growing popular with the tourists and now the newly renovated Aviary is the perfect blend of French aesthetics, traditional Khmer crafts and impeccable customer service

Dec 27, 2019 | By Prince chahal

Many hotels call themselves urban escapes but when you’re in the heart of Siem Reap, not quite a sprawling urban commercial jungle, does it really necessitate an escape? Hence, when it comes The Aviary Hotel, a boutique hotel inspired by nature and Cambodia’s rich heritage of traditional crafts, the luxuriousness of this sophisticated Cambodian oasis is purely incidental, coming by way of celebrating the beauty and diversity of the kingdom’s avian creatures and the immensely talented artisans residing within the 20 kilometre radii of the Old Market (aka city centre).

Siem Reap was little more than a village when French explorers such as Henri Mouhot “re-discovered” Angkor in the 19th century, and it still remains relatively unchanged today – even if a growing body of tourists have made the existence of Pub Street a contemporary contrivance; it takes nothing away from the city nor the hotel in which it resides.

AVIARY HOTEL- May 2016

The Aviary, Siem Reap’s designer Boutique Hotel with a love for Cambodian artists

Similar to but quite unlike the Park Hyatt Siem Reap which sits merely across a shared traffic intersection, The Aviary Hotel is polished like many of the 5-star hotels LUXUO has experienced during our travels, yet down-to-earth thanks to a gorgeously appointed interior filled with locally commissioned artworks.

A turquoise salt-water pool at the heart of The Aviary, hidden behind the lobby and adjacent to the restaurant, lending itself to the general atmospherics as a relaxing sanctuary in the heart of a rapidly gentrifying Siem Reap. Ably supported by picturesque vines and flowers that drape over the balconies in the boutique hotel’s central “air well” (really the hotel’s two separate wings) rising above the pristine waters.

43 eco-friendly rooms await guests to The Aviary, the entirety of the hotel is thematically decorated according to the reputation of Siem Reap’s Prek Toal bird sanctuary located within the Tonlé Sap Reserve, a birdwatcher’s dream given the area’s rich biodiversity and rare waterbirds. Designed with a Franco-European aesthetic with a uniquely Cambodian twist, The Aviary is designed as a reprieve from the heat and perhaps, the overbearing tourist traps that sprung up at a result of Cambodia’s fast growing tourist industry.

That Peaceful Aviary Vibe…

LUXUO called the Sarus Crane Suite, one of three luxurious suites situated on the top floor of The Aviary, home for three days. Naturally light filled and airy (should one deign to leave the windows and balcony doors open – though one wouldn’t advise that given the natural abundance of mosquitos in a developing city), the 60 square metre suite is warm in its welcome and intuitively laid out – a large bedroom upon a platform, a living area, a private balcony and a large en-suite bathroom with his and hers wash basins and mirrors. Again, while the experience is luxurious, its not central to The Aviary, the true pull of the hotel is its serene, relaxed atmosphere. It begs to be explored but the focus your peace of mind (supported by the cutest kitten who often sought me out for snuggles) and comfort (from the snuggness and tactility) of the high backed armchairs and the fluffy throw pillows complete the sensation of utter relaxation.

Can you believe this is papier mache? This is the work of French artist Philippe Brousseau who heads up Jayav Art Gallery.

If one is of the prayerful or meditative variety, the balcony overlooking the fabulous pool area simply sets you in a state of exquisite zen. Balcony and wall planter gardens similar to those of the hanging gardens of Babylon bustle with the peaceful chirping of insect life accompanying your mantra, yoga or rosary, evoking a spiritual commune unlike any other. When other hotels tout eco-friendliness, they usually mean sustainably sourced materials and organic food. The Aviary embodies this ethos right down to its art, decorations and fittings. Case in point: avian statues are papier-mâché treated and finished to look like ceramics and the various bronze-cast bird cages and assorted knick knacks are actually up-cycled materials from the local artisan community like French artist Philippe Brousseau who heads up Jayav Art Gallery.

Experience Siem Reap with The Aviary at its heart

Located a stone’s throw from the fore-mentioned Pub Street, Kandal village, Night Markets and the river. most of the city’s main attractions are either located within walking distance or affordably within tuk-tuk reach through ride-hailing apps like Grab. Suffice it to say, there is an abundance of local Khmer cuisine – both of the stir-fried and grilled variety but the real surprise is the existence of some of the finest French, fusion cuisine and croissant pastries outside of Paris, a throwback to some 82 years as a French colony (tip: Do ask General Manager Joffrey Thin-Gris for dining and sightseeing recommendations – he was spot on for Chanrey Tree, a French-Khmer fusion restaurant).

Thoughtfully designed, the beauty and diversity of birdlife native to the Kingdom of Cambodia are celebrated through decorative interior motifs found in all tiers of rooms (there are fo.ur: Tailorbird, Kingfisher, Sambok, Sarus) at The Aviary, from the standard to the suite, each room is fitted modern mods & cons like flat-screen satellite TVs and air conditioning but charmingly, instead of an espresso machine, you get a French press coffeemaker. Some units offer a balcony while other units like the Sarus Crane suite have a private patio.

In house wellness and hospitality

We would like to report that Siem Reap has more than just temples (wats) but beyond its main attraction, Angkor, each subsequent wat that you would visit is a unique but ultimately indistinct (to civilian eyes) temple from the tens to hundreds that you can potentially visit. Beyond the various night markets and the market square, once you’re done shopping, there’s really little else to do and see; thankfully, The Aviary has quite a few features of its own.

Breakfasts at Plumage Restaurant

Adjacent the brilliant blue waters of the pool, Plumage serves guests from 6:30 to 10:30 in the morning and the service is attentive – while the spread appears limited, the menu offers a variety of main courses (the beef stew is a definite must try – lightly petter spiced and sweet) and the egg station offers all manner of eggs including a delicious, high difficulty level benedict variety topped with hollandaise sauce. The coffee and fresh fruit platter is excellent and aromatic.

: AVIARY HOTEL- May 2016

: AVIARY HOTEL- May 2016

: AVIARY HOTEL- May 2016

The Aviary’s rooftop bar: The Glide

On the same floor as the Sarus suite, the Glide Bar offers a rooftop view of Preah Sangreach Tep Vong Street and while there isn’t much to see now as the road undergoes urban rejuvenation, its the perfect venue to watch the sun set upon Siem Reap, the only other place better to experience dusk would be at the temples located just 6km away from the hotel. Its a sophisticated place for drinking and bar grubs.

Try the smoothies at The Flock Café

Relaxing by the salt-water pool, LUXUO managed to try a selection of smoothies and iced lattes from the Flock cafe and while there might be well warranted concerns of overpriced drinks from an in-house cafe, the quality and standards of what The Aviary serves up makes it well-worth the bill. It’s a welcome respite from the heat as you plan your day’s itinerary.

Wellness at Amret Spa

Run by the same guys who manage Sokkhak Spa River Side (a famed Siem Reap wellness centre), the Amret Spa at The Aviary provides a wellness experience unexpected of most boutique hotels. Equipped with two beautiful massage rooms, and one salon room, Amret Spa is great for an hour or two of pampering. Indulge in a variety of massages, wraps, scrubs, facials & spa packages, these treatments are professional executed by trained, and highly experienced therapists perfect after a long day of temple adventures..

Guests can approach the 24-hour front desk at the property for tour and ticketing services, currency exchange and car rentals.

Angkor Wat is 6 km from The Aviary Hotel, while Angkor Night Market is 400 m from the property. Siem Reap – Angkor International Airport is 7 km away. Shuttle services can be arranged at an additional charge but are unnecessary.

Wow Thailand Festive 2019 Delivers the Right Vibe to Finish the Year

The 21st issue of World of Watches Thailand presents a great variety of timepieces that bring joy to the festive months from December to February. Expect a healthy dose of colours!
Dec 27, 2019 | By Prince Chahal

“It has been a good year for us here at World of Watches Thailand. We maintained our demand in print and surpassed the 200,000 followers mark on Facebook. The group has also grown stronger with the addition of Luxuo Thailand to our collection of titles, which include heavyweights like L’Officiel Thailand and L’Officiel Hommes Thailand,” says Editor-in-Chief Ruckdee Chotjinda.https://amzn.to/2Qq4hgf

“As for WOW, we want to make this issue more light-hearted than the others to coincide with the festive celebrations. As we already provided our gift guide earlier in the September issue, we nevertheless try to show more fanciful images like those of the Bulgari Serpenti Seduttori (Pages 76-79), the millefiori crystal art dials of Hermès (Pages 80-85), and the new Lady Arpels Pont des Amoureux collection from Van Cleef & Arpels (Pages 86-91). Also, turn to Page 128 and you will see a colourful photo spread themed after the nostalgic monopoly boardgame.”

Other readings of interest include the refreshed Cartier boutique at Iconsiam, top dining choices for your special occasions at Waldorf Astoria Bangkok Hotel, and, a thorough look at Geneva as a destination to be enjoyed by watch collectors and regular travellers alike. These elements combine to make WOW a truly unique publication and an authoritative guide for watch purchases. Check out this latest issue at leading bookstores and newsstands nationwide.

World’s Best Designed Luxury Bicycle – Extans Akhal Shadow and Shine with Carbon Monocoque frame

Inspired by the metallic majesty of the world’s rarest purebred Akhal-Teke horses, Extans design house has created the carbon monocoque Akhal luxury bicycle

Dec 10, 2019 | By LUXUO

Design house Extans has launched the Akhal, a new luxury bicycle showcasing stunning craftsmanship and beautiful design in two limited editions, the Shadow and Shine.

The aim was to create a well designed luxury bicycle that expresses a modern, simplistic and elegant style, with a focus on the use of quality lightweight materials to create an iconic object that lasts.

World’s Best Designed Luxury Bicycle – Extans Akhal Shadow and Shine with Carbon Monocoque frame

The Akhal bike was inspired by the Akhal-Teke horse, one of the rarest purebred horses in the world, known for their endurance, intelligence and distinctive metallic sheen. The pure form aesthetic of the designer bike reflects its namesake, with the black and shimmering cremello coat of these horses inspiring the volcano black and silver-sand white finishes on the Shadow and Shine editions respectively. Like these beautiful creatures, the Akhal has been shaped with energy, harmony, and balance, poised with elegance yet employing a design language that embodies movement and finesse.

Featuring a carbon monocoque frame, both Akhal Shadow and Akhal Shine sport a CNC machined head, dropouts and seat clamp all from a single solid aluminium billet, and is handmade in England. There are ninety-nine limited editions of the black chrome plated Shadow and the bright chrome plated Shine available, made to order.

The forged carbon bike stand features a CNC machined aluminium base and is a sculptural piece in its own right, perfectly marrying functionality with a beautifully minimal aesthetic, allowing the bike to be displayed as a piece of art when not in use.

Presenting a bold personal statement in biking, Extans offers a bespoke customisation of the Akhal to allow the rider to co-create a one-off piece that expresses their individuality.

Devoted to creating artistry in personal biking, The Akhal hopes to inspire a strong emotional connection between rider and bike, with a refined beauty designed to elevate the riding experience.

Racing Ahead with the Bell & Ross BR 03-94 R.S.19

Bell & Ross continues its colourful motor racing-themed collection with the BR 03-94 R.S.19

Dec 25, 2019 | By Prince Chahal

Though the worlds of aviation and motor racing may be miles apart, literally, both share figurative similarities in their requirements for high performance and precision instruments. For a watchmaker such as Bell & Ross, whose roots are mantle-deep in aviation, the difficulties in producing a collection away from its forte are not as challenging as that mixed metaphor we came up with. While Bell & Ross may not elicit the same sort of response as other esteemed brands with closer associations with motor racing, its race-inspired collection is forged with the know-how of the Formula 1 Renault F1 Team. Launched during BaselWorld 2019, the BR 03-94 R.S.19 celebrates Bell & Ross’ partnership with the Renault F1 Team, now into its fourth year.

The driving force behind the partnership is passion, which underpins both forward-looking organisations. For this chronograph, Bell & Ross melds its history in aviation and military specifications with motor racing-inspired elements, producing an instrument of the highest quality.

Nico Hulkenberg (GER) Renault Sport F1 Team RS19

The BR 03-94 R.S.19 is based on Bell & Ross’ iconic chassis of the Instrument collection, measuring 42mm across in stainless steel. It forgoes the typical codes of stealth and ruggedness with an eye-catching array of green, red and orange colours inspired by the steering wheels of Formula 1 race cars. Shaped by Bell & Ross’ expertise in crafting ultra-functional tool watches for professionals, it races ahead with a black carbon fibre dial, an essential high-tech material for Formula 1. A yellow tachymetre chapter ring adds the finishing touches to the Renault F1 Team’s signature yellow and black colour codes.

Powering the watch is Bell & Ross’ automatic chronograph calibre BR-CAL.301, which is based on the ETA 2894-2 calibre. The chronograph configuration is pretty standard – aside from the riotous colours – with a central chronograph second hand, 30-minute counter at 9 o’clock, and small second counter at 3 o’clock. What are decidedly not standard are the chronograph start/stop and reset actuators, which resemble the gear-shifting pedals found on motor racing steering wheels.

Various angles of the BR 03-94 R.S.19

An interesting addition to the watch is the bi-directional anodised aluminium countdown bezel. The knurled bezel is used to set the remaining time before or during an event. It works like this: rotate the bezel so that the time remaining is set to the minute hand. When the minute hand reaches zero on the scale your timing event is done. The 999-piece limited-edition BR 03-94 R.S.19 is paired with a perforated black rubber and is water-resistant to 100 metres.

Bell & Ross BR 03-94 R.S.19 Specs and Price

Movement Automatic Calibre BR-CAL.301; 42-hour power reserve

Case 42mm in stainless steel; water-resistant to 100m

Strap Perforated black rubber strap

Price $9,500