Archive for the 'Design' Category

Opulent by design

Wednesday, February 24th, 2010

Gibraltar, a British territory at the southern tip of Spain, is not the first place you would expect to find an exclusive members club, but thanks to the enclave’s status as an offshore haven and a leading financial centre it has one of the highest concentrations of millionaires in Europe.

Plush eleganceGibraltar is a true product of history. Captured by an Anglo-Dutch force during the 18th century Wars of Spanish Succession, it has been a British crown dependency ever since. In this tiny territory, perched upon a spectacular rocky peninsula half an hour west of Marbella, a cosmopolitan population of traders and financiers thrive. Property is at a premium, luxury cars a common sight and in the marinas large yachts lie alongside visiting frigates and cruise ships. Drawn above all by its banking facilities and offshore status, Gibraltar is also home to a community of international millionaires. (more…)

Brilliant designs

Tuesday, February 2nd, 2010

Many of the world’s famous brands may come from Paris, Milan and London, but whilst in many cases iconic, much of what they make is actually produced on a considerable scale. For one-off pieces designed and made by master craftsmen, smaller bespoke jewellers are making a welcome comeback. (more…)

New Paris Interiors

Monday, March 2nd, 2009

A new take on the capital of chic

New Paris InteriorsThe city of light, romance and revolution is also a leading centre of style, elegance, design and architecture. With so many beautiful buildings to inspire and work with, it’s hardly surprising that the Parisian interior décor scene has always been so vibrant. The city and its famous icons have provided a rich backdrop for artists, artisans, couturiers and creators of interiors that range from superbly tasteful to outrageously outlandish. (more…)

Seaside living

Friday, January 23rd, 2009

Seaside living
The salty air of the sea practically leaps off the pages as you open this new tome by Taschen, carrying images of littoral idyll on a fresh sea breeze. A perfect inspiration for those rainy days when you need a little daydream to help you through, New Seaside Interiors celebrates homes in stunning seaside locations and the decors that go with them.
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Soft, Sensual and Sexy

Monday, December 22nd, 2008

By the PTMD® collection
PTMD Yvonne van OpdorpWhen it comes to creating the kind of ambience you’d love to call home Yvonne van Opdorp has a knowing touch. As styling and art director of the PTMD® collection, the haute couture accessories and design firm she runs with her husband Jos, Yvonne’s winning combinations of colour, texture and form set the tone for living environments that can justly be described as eye-catching. Not surprisingly, this select family business founded 15 years ago has made a name for itself far beyond its native Holland. (more…)