Often overlooked, particularly when it comes to the finer details, bathrooms are arguably the room of the home that we turn to most frequently to find solace and repose. From sinking into a hot bath after a long day, to washing the day away in a striking shower, a well-designed bathroom should sit as a refined retreat within the home — reflecting the needs of its inhabitants.
Matisse, who we have long turned to for all things bathroom design, particularly when it comes to bespoke tapware, have recently welcomed Gessi to the fold — further building on its extensive offering, offering 20% off the entire range for the month of October*. Gessi, specialists in Italian-made designs, have been synonymous with innovation and luxury for over three decades, revolutionising bathroom design with a unique ‘Haute Culture’ approach. From tapware to mixers and fixtures, Gessi is renowned for their luxurious, innovative textures and a wide variety of finishes, blending material, form, and technique to create cultural value.
With a design philosophy which combines traditional craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology, Gessi’s products, from sleek faucets to sculptural bathtubs, embody artistic expression and practical elegance. Sustainability is key, with eco-friendly practices and water-saving technologies integrated into every design, making Gessi a favourite in luxury hotels and residences worldwide.
With myriad finishes to select from, from woven stainless steel to imprinted surfaces and polished or matte options, Gessi offers the versatility to easily upgrade any bathroom without the need for a complete overhaul.
The brand’s Origini Collection draws inspiration from the pristine beauty of untouched landscapes and the rhythmic flow of water, transporting the essence of nature into the heart of modern bathroom design, while, for those seeking something precious that plays on customisation, the geometric and sinuous volumes of the Anello Collection are sure to add a elegant and feminine touch to any design-led space.
With an innate ability to instil beauty into everyday objects, Gessi’s striking products are crafted with exclusive techniques and highly artisanal processes. From textured applications to Lacquered, Galvanic, PVD and GHRC, the maker’s materiality is distinct and incomparable.
The Venti20 Collection captures this essence wholly, inviting rediscovery of the grace and invigorating spirit of the Roaring Twenties, drawing inspiration from the remarkable era with its unrivalled elegance and decadence.
Whether you’re seeking to make a full-scale change, or a small-scale upgrade, Gessi is the obvious choice — with some of the most statement-making and high-quality fixtures and finishes on offer, merging art, technology, and sustainability in an extensive collection sure to transform even the simplest of bathroom into a luxurious retreat.
In a show of defiance against luxury’s economic slowdown, Milan Fashion Week SS25 delivered a delightful surprise: a resurgence of playfulness. From Madonna-inspired looks to animal-shaped beanbags, the city that often prioritises commerciality embraced a spirit of lighthearted ease. This season, Milan proved that luxury and playfulness can coexist, creating a memorable and exciting fashion week.
Spring 2025 Read-To-Wear
Gucci
This seasonSebato De Sano took complete ownership of his creative responsibilities as Gucci’s soil and took a confident stride forward with a show that celebrated iconic Gucci elements reimagined for a new era. With a firm commitment to the brand’s Italian design heritage, De Sarno forged a new path. The runway reflected this evolution, a colour-drenched tunnel mirroring De Sarno’s journey with the brand, culminating in a bold Gucci red.
The opening looks were pure 90s nostalgia, with classic tailoring twisted into unexpected silhouettes reminiscent of a cool, modern Caroline Bessette. De Sarno’s signature evening wear took centre stage — spaghetti straps, textured lace, and geometric seaming breathed new life into the ‘underwear-as-outerwear’ trend.
The iconic horse-bit and bamboo motifs have also been reborn in a playful, tropical palette adorning mini sets, perfect for that Palm Royale Palm Springs state of mind. The bamboo, celebrated in an upcoming Japan exhibition, is woven into the narrative, linking the collection to cultural context.
The finale was a powerful statement. Four oversized coats, a trench, utility, cocoon, and s robe strode confidently down the runway. Each felt like a break from the archive, a glimpse of De Sarno’s own design language emerging.
De Sarno’s Gucci is a tapestry woven from legacy and reinvention. He revisits the brand’s past, not with nostalgia, but with a keen eye for reimagining iconic looks for a new era. De Sarno-defined silhouettes, from the supersized coats to the lace-paneled dresses, all solidify his position as a designer shaping Gucci’s future.
Spring 2025 Read-To-Wear
Fendi
With Fendi’s approaching centenary on the horizon, this collection bridged the past and present. Kim Jones delved into the brand’s modernist roots, seamlessly merging couture and ready-to-wear. Bringing together hand and machine-made evening and daywear, this was a celebration of the every day with a touch of luxury.
Post-pandemic realities inform Jones’ vision. Our homes, now multi-functional spaces, seem to have driven the rise of elevated loungewear. Fendi embraces this shift, with Jones dissecting lingerie details and textiles for more than just slip dresses. Think dove grey shearling coats that double as robes, deconstructed nightgown dresses, and playful upside-down tank tops.
While the Roaring Twenties revival predicted pre-pandemic has stalled, whispers of hedonism and artistic freedom linger. Jones acknowledges this, keeping the Fendi woman in mind — a woman of action, not just appearances. The collection offers excellence and ease, garments built for movement and lightness. Perhaps this explains the practical yet unexpected collaboration with Red Wing for rugged footwear, grounding the delicate looks in reality.
Fendi SS25 celebrated heritage infused with a modern perspective, where Jones reimagined the brand’s DNA, offering luxurious comfort for the Fendi woman of today.
Spring 2025 Read-To-Wear
Prada
Prada’s SS25 show threw convention out the window. Forget uniformity — gender-nonconforming models bookended the runway, a bold statement on the multifaceted nature of the Prada woman.
This season, cohesion takes a backseat to individuality. Each look reflects its wearer’s unique personality, a refreshing antidote to the homogenised trends dominating fashion. The collection plays to different personality types, offering a vibrant spectrum of styles.
Superheroes, those flawed yet powerful individuals, serve as a metaphor for this celebration of self. Bug-eyed sunglasses hint at a playful nod to comic book heroes, perhaps destined for future cosplay conventions.
Prada defies expectations of chronology, seamlessly weaving past and future influences. A revival of beloved designs, a move sure to spark a frenzy among fans. But beyond nostalgia, Prada tackles the algorithm-driven present. The vast internet knowledge at our fingertips ironically restricts discovery through curated feeds. Algorithms filter out infinite possibilities, leaving no room for genuine exploration.
Miuccia Prada and Raf Simons propose a rebellion – a return to the unpredictability of the human spirit. They acknowledge that change, the adversary of algorithms, is the lifeblood of creativity. Standing out in an age of information overload is a fight against the algorithm. In an era of trend-driven consumption, do we even know what we like anymore?
Prada asks these existential questions through their themeless collection. This season celebrates the individual, a superhero forging their own path through the fashion landscape.
Spring 2025 Read-To-Wear
Max Mara
The original quiet luxury brand returns with a masterclass in timeless elegance for SS25. Creative Director Ian Griffiths celebrated the label’s core strength — empowering women to be their best selves without chasing trends.
This season, Griffiths took inspiration from the unwavering certainty of mathematicians and scientists. Experimenting with darts, layering them to create an origami-like effect on classic silhouettes like the pencil skirt and cocoon coat. It’s innovative without being intimidating, a perfect balance for the Max Mara woman who values polish and control.
A touch of imperfection adds intrigue — crinkled fabrics and random splicing update familiar pieces. Griffiths understands that the Max Mara woman isn’t afraid to be comfortable while always looking impeccably put together.
The colour palette is anchored by a rich cocoa brown, a simple yet impactful choice. But Griffiths’ genius lies deeper. He draws a surprising connection between fashion and science, specifically the work of mathematician Hypatia.
Griffiths’ magic touch transformed even a modest poplin shirt into a statement piece, reversing button fastenings and employing origami-inspired folds, all executed with the precision of mathematical lines.
Max Mara SS25 is an evolution – a fusion of scientific thinking and unwavering polish. It empowers the modern woman to navigate the world with confidence and effortless style.
Spring 2025 Read-To-Wear
Bottega Veneta
Matthieu Blazy’s SS25 collection for Bottega Veneta was a joyful rebellion against grown-up expectations — a nostalgic nod to childhood, where every day was an adventure and clothing was a playground.
The oversized trend takes on new meaning here, a response to the world’s anxieties and a desire for comfort. Blazy invites us to revisit the fun of dress-up, where mismatched pieces and borrowed clothes fueled our imaginations. Think oversized bomber jackets, crumpled tailoring, and chic awkwardness — a new kind of power dressing.
Blazy encouraged us to embrace the whimsical, from bunny ear buckles to grocery-basket bags transformed into luxurious metallic carriers. Animals, a constant presence in our childhoods, were woven into the collection — from the set design of playful beanbag chairs to delicate frog jewellery.
This is a collection that asks, ‘Can you find power in sweetness?’ The answer is a resounding yes. Blazy taps into the simple joy of dressing up, reminding us of the wonder we once found in everyday acts.
Supersized silhouettes, playful animal accents, and impeccable craftsmanship created a whimsical yet undeniably Bottega Veneta collection. Blazy proved that embracing our inner child and finding joy in fashion can be a powerful statement.
Spring 2025 Read-To-Wear
Jil Sander
Defying seasonal expectations, Jil Sander SS25 by Lucie and Luke Meier is a collection built for longevity, with each piece designed to integrate seamlessly into your existing wardrobe.
Think investment pieces, like furniture or art, meant to be cherished and worn for years to come. Gone are the predictable florals and brights; instead, a sophisticated palette of pastels and, of course, Jil Sander’s signature black.
This season’s darkness was inspired by a collaboration with photographer Greg Girard. His haunting images of Vancouver nightlife — motel lobbies, back alleys, grocery stores – are superimposed onto blazers, skirts, and dresses like cinematic billboards.
The collection celebrates the beauty of contrasts — casual juxtaposed with eveningwear, feminine alongside masculine. These are clothes for real people, with a touch of unexpectedness.
The Meiers have moved beyond minimalism, finding inspiration in the fringes of society. They used Girard’s atmospheric imagery and a play between light and dark to create a collection that is both beautiful and thought-provoking.
Jil Sander SS25 is a celebration of reality, offering a fresh perspective on familiar silhouettes and a departure from predictable summer trends.
Spring 2025 Read-To-Wear
Ferragamo
Maximilian Davis’ SS25 collection for Ferragamo celebrated movement and heritage, inspired by African-American dancer Katherine Dunham. Dunham’s Caribbean roots resonate with Davis’ own background, highlighting the importance of diverse perspectives in fashion.
Drawing on the grace of ballet, Davis created a luxurious update to base layers in vegetal shades and ballet slipper pink. Think leotards, leggings, and wraps — perfect for the aspiring dancer or a chic everyday look.
Shoes are a highlight. Davis avoids the overdone ballet flat trend, reinterpreting Ferragamo’s archival Opanke Shoes into a lace-up sandal with a playful satin ribbon detail.
Davis continues to develop signature Ferragamo shapes. Organic curves define hemlines and necklines, while a new woven gancho texture added depth to coats and dresses. Parachute nylons offer a fresh take on the bubble-hem trend, perfect for the fashion-forward older demographic.
Davis’ focus on his vision resulted in a collection that prioritised freedom of movement and celebrated heritage with a modern twist. The ballet-inspired layers and innovative silhouettes are sure to be coveted by Ferragamo’s discerning clientele.
Words Sjaan Askwith | PHOTOS Mark Leedom | 25 Sep 2024
Prepare for delightful, unexpected twists in a wondrously inventive telling of J. M. Barrie’s classic tale, Peter Pan, by the magical team at Nightsong, presented by Auckland Theatre Company this spring.
One of the most highly-anticipated theatre productions of the year, and for good reason, this modern day reimagining of Peter Pan transports audiences into the spellbinding story of the boy who never grows up. As a headstrong Wendy helps Peter to reattach his lost shadow, riotous make-believe music, and mayhem ensues, as she and her brother John fly out of their bedroom window with Peter and follow him to Neverland. Here, Captain Hook, Tinkerbell and the Lost Boys await to take them on the greatest adventure yet.
actor Theo Shakes, playing Peter Pan
This timeless story is guaranteed to delight anyone young at heart, deftly exploring both hidden and overt themes — from the blissful ignorance of childhood to chasing eternal youth — in bold new ways. Acclaimed playwright Carl Bland transforms the beloved narrative into a big, bold, and heart-warming performance for the ages — with TikTok sensation, actor, writer and director Theo Shakes in the starring role as Pan.
Here, we sit down with Shakes as he gears up for his four-week run, discussing the joys of live theatre, online versus offline performance, and the magic of stepping outside of your comfort zone.
Peter Pan is on from October 8th until the 3rd of November at ASB Waterfront Theatre. Book tickets here.
Exclusive Q&A
Theo Shakes
Firstly, tell me about Peter Pan — we all know the story from childhood, but in your words, what’s the play about?
Peter Pan is truly timeless. It’s all about staying young and believing in the joy, mess and chaos that childhood invites. It asks us to live with bravery and stand proud in who we are before the world puts us in a box.
What drew you to the play initially? How did your casting come about?
The directors Ben Crowder and Carl Bland reached out with interest. They held a workshop last year and felt I stood out when we ran old scenes from Nightsong (their theatre company). I’ve only ever played side characters or supporting roles. One of my requests at drama school was to experience a full character arc, which I never got in the end. When Peter Pan came along, the idea of playing a lead felt like a great challenge and an iconic character to serve.
You’ve become quite prolific on TikTok for your comedy skits, has comedy always been something you were drawn to? And will we see some of this in Peter Pan?
I’ve always enjoyed comedy but every genre excites me. I don’t make a TikTok with the intention to be funny, but I’m aware of the humour needed. I’m more interested in capturing life. What I do on TikTok is always informing my creative practice, however I want to isolate the character building experience with Peter Pan and try new things. The stage is much different from the little iPhone screen. A boldness is needed to give every audience member a slice of the pie.
In your TikToks (and with the characters you’re creating within them), you’re essentially reflecting humanity back to itself. Did you approach playing a fictional character — Peter Pan — in the same way?
Peter Pan mirrors many children today. I have stumbled upon people in life who encapsulate similar qualities however, Peter’s not ageing by the minute. He’s a particularly rare case. There’s questions around what that’s doing to him internally. I’ve had conversations with people who have worked the story for years. Perhaps he’s over 100 years old and denying his true age. There’s a lot more that goes into exploring his different moods and emotions than what goes into filming a TikTok. Inside Out on steroids is in this boy’s head.
In crafting your own version of Peter, did you draw on personal experience from childhood, or seek inspiration elsewhere?
I’ve definitely been thinking about my own life. There’s flashbacks I get in rehearsal of moments in my life where I’ve been small and curled in a ball. There’s also been the opposite, like the feeling of: “This is my part nobody else speak”. Those moments of proudness and exuberance. I like to get nostalgic, but Peter doesn’t because he’s forgotten his past. The present is enough for him. I’m reminding myself to live in the now and enjoy what’s in front of me, because this world moves fast man.
What was your personal relationship with the story, ahead of being cast in the play?
Peter Pan runs deep in the corners of my mind. It’s the first play I ever performed in year nine. I was only 13. I was new to experiencing all the different moving parts to a show. I was a part of the ‘indigenous crew’ and wrote a bunch of songs and raps. Oh, how times have changed. And so, this story continues to follow me. It’s not done with me and I’m not done with it. I’m also a 2000s kid. You had a set amount of DVDs in your childhood and so you’d repeat the same films. One of those was the 2004 Peter Pan. I always wanted to be Peter Pan. I always wanted to fly. I always dreamt of living on an island without any rules or parents to control me.
Peter Pan is a story of whimsy and magic, and the notion of eternal boyhood — but there’s much more to it beneath the surface, what’s your take on the story’s moral lessons?
I feel like there’s a lot of commentary around people struggling to love themselves and therefore not loving others. Love is complicated, yet it’s a force that runs through everyone’s lives. Are we really listening to each other? If you don’t listen to the ones you love, you’ll miss the importance of who they are. Sometimes we get in our own heads about how precisely we have to live our lives, to the point where it leaks onto others. Then, every so often, someone comes along and gives us a new perspective. That someone can set you free.
For you, what is the play’s single most important and impactful message?
Time waits for nobody, so it’s only a matter of time before you unlock how to use it wisely.
As an actor, what’s the most challenging part of playing such a well-known character? And what do you enjoy the most about it?
The challenging part is not falling into the cliches. For example, Peter has distinct poses like the arms crossed or the hands on the hips. I want to shape his mannerisms and body language with purpose. If it means taking inspiration from prior adaptations then so be it, but there’s importance in finding a point of difference when retelling a story that’s been done over and over again. I want to allow people into what’s already dear to their hearts, but also give them a dash of originality.
Having worked across TV, film, and the theatre, both in front of the scenes and behind them, what’s unique about plays? What do you love most about performing for a live audience?
The rush. There’s an absolutely thrilling feeling of hiding in the shadows of the wings, knowing you’re about to step into the hot zone. In the hot zone there’s the notion that you’re about to dance on a stage where legends before you have poured it all out. There’s also nothing like clocking an audience member and connecting, for a split second, with a face in the crowd. You’re exchanging something very, very real which won’t always be around — in fact, it’ll disappear within an instant and never be the same again. Magicians would call this magic. The best bit is, you’ll never forget how it made you feel. Both the performer and the viewer make the story up each night.
How do you build trust and creative chemistry with cast and crew members who you haven’t necessarily worked with before?
It helps when everyone’s nice. And everyone is a joy to work with in this company. There’s also a buzz of laughter in the air. We’re in a lighthearted story so you can’t take yourself too seriously. Between moments of action you get to catch up with a cast mate, learn about their story and who they are. That’s what connecting in with your fellow actors looks like. You trust people when you get to know them. In acting its gotta be on double time because of the speed at which things move, but when you remember everyone’s here for the same reason, you know the tethered spirit is closer than you think.
Nerves — do you get them? If so, how do you move past them to deliver a great performance?
Who doesn’t. I yawn. I don’t like saying that either because if you see me yawn you’ll know I’m nervous as f**k, but there you go. I don’t always get past nerves, I use them. The ‘Actor in instinct’ was part of my training — it’s the idea that you can lean into everything you’re feeling because it’s true. Your body is already alive and active, so it doesn’t have to work hard to find real feelings. For me, ‘nerves’ were a reason to cross over from directing into acting. The stakes are higher, which means it’s hard. It’s a good challenge. Why would I do something that’s easy? BORING. The feeling of adrenaline and overcoming your nerves feels like climbing to the top of the loftiest mountain. Yessir!
What exciting things are on the horizon for you? What are you most looking forward to right now?
I’ve written a play called ‘The Play That Gets Louder’ which myself and a group of awesome creatives will be performing at Basement Theatre in 2025. You should come watch. Here’s a piece of theatre you will have never seen before. The experimental sound design of the play offers its X-factor. I’d love to get some younger guys to come watch theatre, and I think this is the show for them.
Finally, tell us why we need to see Peter Pan…
We’re going to give you not just a slice of imagination, but the whole cake. No, the whole bakery. There’s treats in this show you’ve never seen before. There’s a set and music you’ve never experienced. This show is gonna be fly. Yes, pun intended.
This Thursday, the creative residents of Faraday Street — My Exhibition, Föenander Galleries, and Ne Geurra are coming together for an evening of drinks and conversation over objects of intrigue.
Gallery Ne Geurra
Gallery Ne Geurra — a gallery for 20th century design holding an ever-evolving collection of rare and unique pieces from the likes of Le Corbusier, Pierre Jeanneret, and Pierre Paulin, will be pouring Franck Bonville champagne and showcasing their latest edit of rare and iconic furniture.
My Exhibition
The neighbouring My Exhibition — known for their rare and covetable collectables and curios from across the globe, will be serving Exhibit A Gin and showcasing found treasures from near and far.
Nick Herd with Föenander Galleries
And Föenander Galleries will be offering a short introduction to Nick Herd’s show — as well as a preview of Michael Dell’s upcoming exhibition, alongside Campari.
Kicking off at 4.30pm, and running until 7pm on Thursday, September 26th on Faraday Street, Open Studio is an opportunity to explore three of the city’s premier design destinations.
As one of New Zealand’s most revered hair stylists and makeup artists, Kiekie Stanners is well-versed in the art of using hair styling tools to effortlessly achieve the most glamorous of looks. For this issue’s cover shoot with actress Lydia Peckham, Stanners opted for two contrasting but equally stunning looks — styled using Shark’s range of powerful and versatile hair tools. Here, she talks us through the easy recreation of Lydia’s slick and straight look, using Shark’s styling tools at home.
Slick and Straight
Achieve The Look
Kiekie Stanners, hair stylist and makeup artist
“To achieve Lydia’s slick, straight look, I spritzed the hair to dampen. Following this, I used the Shark SpeedStyle with the Styling Concentrator attachment to blowout the hair in small sections, starting with lower layers first, followed by sectioning and parting the hair at the front to ensure a smooth, sleek finish. Once the hair was sleek and straight, I switched attachments to the RapidGloss Finisher for the ultimate smooth and shiny finish. Here, I took small, 5cm sections of hair, gently lifted it with a tail comb, and ran the tool over the section from the scalp down, smoothing the hair downwards from roots to ends. To finish, I ran a smoothing cream over the hair to highlight the shine, focusing on the parting and smoothing over the crown.”
Slick and Straight
Get The Look
SpeedStyle RapidGloss Finisher & High-Velocity Dryer from Shark
ORIBE Supershine Moisturizing Cream from net-a-porter
PHILIP KINGSLEY Finishing Touch Flexible Hold Mist from Sephora
From the sun-soaked shores of Waiheke Island to the dramatic peaks of Marlborough and Bannockburn, Swiftsure is an adventurous new collection of exceptional wines from the makers of Man O’ War. Embodying the same ethos as the storied, Waiheke-based vineyard, Swiftsure wines are bold, confident, and unconventional — showcasing the innovative winemaking Man O’ War is acclaimed for.
Swiftsure’s lush Sauvignon Blanc
With a reputation for producing wines that celebrate and capture the location from which they originate, and with this new venture, it’s to the South Island’s rugged and rocky terroir that the team have turned — establishing vineyards in the iconic, nuanced regions of Bannockburn and Marlborough.
“Wild yet graceful, untamed yet refined, Swiftsure are wines of purity and power, mirroring the majesty of the South.”
Swiftsure’s lush Sauvignon Blanc is blended from carefully selected sites to capture the essence of Marlborough. Youthful and vibrant, yet with a sophisticated edge, this multi-faceted wine bursts with aromas; an abundance of tropical fruits, crisp citrus and fresh herbs, showcasing the intensity that has made Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc famous the world over. Swiftsure’s southern coast vineyard is situated in Marlborough’s southernmost sub-region in the shadow of the Kaikoura Ranges, and as such, the wine produced here takes on a stunning salinity, with a rich minerality — bursting with fresh, ripe layers.
Swiftsure’s bold and brilliant Pinot Noir
From Swiftsure Bannockburn comes a wine on the other end of the stylistic spectrum — a bold and brilliant Pinot Noir. From a single vineyard entirely dedicated to producing this varietal, set across gentle, north-facing slopes on a natural river terrace, this wine is poised with a wild edge, rich in aromatics. Both fruitful and savoury, boysenberry, rhubarb, and cherry blossom are interwoven with tendrils of smoke and a faint scent of nori, in a wine as well suited to cellaring as it is savouring immediately — it’s youthful exuberance making for a delightful springtime sipper.
No stranger to challenging conditions, winemaker Duncan McTavish has spent over a decade at the helm of Man O’ War Vineyards — making iconic wines in one of the country’s most unique environments: Waiheke Island. Having studied in Canterbury, he is relishing the opportunity to return to the south where he learnt his craft, complementing the Man O’ War collection with the introduction of Swiftsure. Likewise, longstanding Man O’ War Viticulturist Sam Taylor has fully embraced the southern venture, relocating with his family from Waiheke Island to lead Swiftsure’s viticultural operations in the iconic Marlborough region — while continuing to maintain a guiding eye over Man O’ War.
Man O’ War’s restaurant and tasting room on Waiheke Island
And, as much as Man O’ War is revered for its wines, the vineyard’s restaurant and tasting room, along with their brand new Forest Flight experience, has become a renowned escape and unmissable experience on Waiheke Island, something the team is primed to replicate in the South. Drawing on his impressive background in global hospitality and sales, Paul Franich will spearhead the opening of a vibrant new restaurant in Arrowtown next year, offering oenophiles and novices alike the chance to explore the world of Swiftsure in one of the country’s most picturesque settings.
Enjoy a long lunch and private, guided tasting for two on Waiheke Island
Inspired by the South Island’s rugged beauty and the adventurous Kiwi spirit it fosters, Swiftsure celebrates those that embrace epic journeys and the wines that mark the moment.
Only at the beginning of their journey, with a host of exciting plans in the pipeline, Swiftsure is certainly one to watch. Keep up to date with new releases, events, bespoke offers, and the launch of their Arrowtown eatery here.
Frequently touted as ‘the world’s hippest DJ,’ Peggy Gou’s stratospheric rise has seen her go from underground sensation to the A-list artist that everyone wants a piece of. Her music is dream-like and demanding, her fashion choices bold and brilliant, and, while she’s seemingly on top of the world, the South Korean DJ, producer, and vocalist is clearly just getting started.
Over the past six months, it seems everywhere you turn, there she is. Peggy Gou, the trailblazing DJ and music artist, has quickly shot into cultural consciousness and mainstream media. From Coachella performances to private fashion shows, big-time brand partnerships to Cannes red carpets, Gou has gone from underground sensation to global icon — seemingly overnight.
Peggy Gou was born in Incheon, Korea, growing up in a traditional Korean household before relocating to London in her teens for schooling. Moving around three different sets of guardians during those early years (she wasn’t exactly a stickler for the rules), Gou’s parents eventually moved her back to South Korea, but the return was short-lived. Desperate to return to London (and regain the freedom she’d found while there), Gou begged her mum for a second chance, applying for a foundation course at the London College of Fashion (LCF). She was accepted and found her way back to the city, and while it wasn’t all smooth sailing, Gou found her way, and herself, in music. The rest, you can probably piece together.
Having been taught to beat match by a friend back in Korea, Gou taught herself to produce and started DJing, landing a few gigs in London before eventually relocating to Berlin in 2013, where she now ostensibly lives (world-straddling DJs such as Gou don’t really live anywhere, spending every other weekend playing at a different stop on her constant world loop). And it was here, in the world’s epicentre of electronica, where she earned her mantle as one of dance music’s biggest names. Ever-ambitious, Gou pushed hard for opportunities, becoming the first Asian female DJ to play at the iconic Berghain in 2016 — a feat she takes great pride in.
Since her first official release in 2016 — a debut EP titled Art of War, Gou has quickly and impressively gone from strength to strength, now boasting her own record label (Gudu Records), a mini festival in London, more than four million followers on Instagram, and an impressive standing in the fashion world — previously running her own fashion label, Kirin, supported by the late Virgil Abloh, and landing a steady stream of high profile partnerships. She’s played everywhere from Coachella to Glastonbury, but despite all that she’s achieved at an impressively young age (Gou turned 33 in July), she’s far from ready to rest on her laurels. In fact, it seems as if she’s just getting started, “I’ve far from achieved everything I want to,” she said in a recent interview, “I’m ambitious and haven’t done half of what I’ve got planned.”
Gou’s first EPs in 2016 were met with fervour, but it was her 2018 releases that put her on the map and solidified her standing as one of the world’s most highly regarded and sought-after DJs. Gou has playfully described her music as ‘K-house’ (the star sings in Korean), but a specific genre can’t define her music. In fact, the only word that would accurately sum it up is unpredictable. And that’s exactly how she likes it, “I want to release my own music to have freedom of genre, and I wanted to have control over when I release, artwork, everything,” she told The Guardian in an interview in 2019 after stepping away from her label to self-manage. Punchy, dreamy, and one-of-a-kind, Gou’s sound is nothing if not unique. “Music is my passion. It’s a feeling,” she was quoted saying recently, “If you ask what music means to me, it’s like you asking what love means to me. It’s not a rational thing.”
Her debut album, I Hear You, was released only a few months ago but has quickly solidified Gou’s standing as the multi-talented and world-straddling artist she has fast become. The long-awaited LP sees Gou stepping into the next level of her artistry and boldly claiming her voice through the kaleidoscopic lens of ‘90s house music, embodying the spirit of connection and the timeless artistry she is now renowned for.
Gou’s authenticity and artistry shine through in everything she does, all of which seemingly turns to gold. And, given her track record across the past decade, it is clear we are yet to see the extent of Gou’s power — both within the music world and beyond.
It’s always exciting when one of our go-tos shake things up on the menu, and Herne Bay stalwart Andiamo very much falls under the ‘go-to’ category here in the Denizen office. In celebration of spring, and all of the delightful produce that comes with the changing of seasons, the clever team in the Andiamo kitchen have crafted an exceptional new menu, sure to surprise, delight, and satisfy even the most frequent of diners.
Right: House-made ricotta filled ravioli
The house-made ricotta-filled ravioli is about as perfect a springtime dish as you can get, with delightfully al dente flower-shaped pockets stuffed with a decadent yet light, creamy filling, served with fresh herbs and pecorino. Simply sublime.
Stracciatella with charred sourdough
The Stracciatella, served with peas, crisp whitloof, herb oil, and charred sourdough, follows a similar spring theme, and is a delightful dish to share at the beginning of a meal, or pair with a glass of bubbles on a sun-soaked afternoon.
And, if you’re looking to add to a shared smorgasbord, the bruschetta served with taleggio, artichoke, and watercress pesto is a crowd-pleasing delight, while the delicate market fish crudo with blood orange ponzu, ‘nduja caramel, and a spring onion dip is a must-have on any table.
Left: Crab risotto
For those partial to Andiamo’s elevated take on more classic Italian dishes, the crab risotto is a must. Topped with preserved lemon and sugar snap peas, this rich, flavourful dish beautifully balances the subtle sweetness of the crab with savoury elements to offer a masterclass in spring satisfaction.
Slow-cooked lamb shoulder
Last, but certainly not least, the slow-cooked lamb shoulder for two, paired with green harissa and pistachio and served with flatbread, is a mouth-watering delight. Full of flavour and falling off the bone, this moreish sharing plate is the best of the season.
So, whether you’re an Andiamo devotee or simply looking to elevate your weekend plans, this springtime menu is worthy of your attention. Book a table now.
Vincent Van Duysen’s modern kitchen masterpiece for Molteni&C epitomises the star designer’s sophisticated and refined signature aesthetic.
Creating a dynamic and elegant kitchen environment, Vincent Van Duysen’s VVD Kitchen showcases the interplay of alternating materials and the balance of solids and voids that contribute to a sophisticated yet lively space.
Details such as the reimagining of the recessed handle with a modern and sophisticated twist, and emphasising the contrast between slim side and end units, along with using substantial, thick worktops that feature stone sink bowls, break the linearity of the design.
Generous pull-out trays, open-ended drawers, and under-top trolleys enhance functionality, while an aluminium, load-bearing structure allows for compositions that are completely suspended from the floor.
Innovation is a hallmark of this design, seen in the technological details such as the built-in LED strip light and the aluminium profile that discreetly shapes the door handle for improved grip. The innovative pivot hinge enables doors to open 180°, maximising the usability of internal spaces. The addition of Bright wall units, featuring transparent glass doors and soft-closing micro-hinges, gives the kitchen a new architectural look, combining practicality with refined aesthetics.
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