The mood is certainly festive at Ponsonby Central, the restaurants abuzz with jovial gatherings and the precinct’s infamous Santa statue gracing us with his cheeky presence. To top it all off, newcomer and boutique cinema Silky Otter has just opened its doors, promising to entertain and delight its patrons in serious style.
Silky Otter is more than just a movie theatre, boasting a sleek restaurant and bar area, ‘So Lounge’, which serves fresh fare, barista-made coffee, and delectable cocktails. There’s never been a better reason to make a night of it, and you can even have food and drinks delivered to your luxurious theatre recliner as you indulge in your film of choice.
Movies currently showing at Silky Otter Ponsonby include the highly anticipated Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, The Menu, and to entertain the children, the newly released animation Strange World. With state-of-the-art auditoriums, each seating 28 people, and the opportunity to hire out a specially-designed space with its very own bar, lounge and Laurent-Perrier screen, Silky Otter will undoubtedly elevate your cinema experience to new heights.
To welcome Silky Otter to Ponsonby Central, we’re giving away the ultimate evening experience for four people — dinner at Inca and a Silky Otter movie experience. Your evening will kick off with Inca’s ‘Let Us Feed You’ tasting menu — a selection of the restaurant’s greatest hits designed for sharing. Then, you’ll head to Silky Otter, where you’ll enjoy a movie and dessert. To enter, fill out the form below. Good luck!
As the weekend rolls around again and we are left wondering how exactly to get the most out of our days off, it is to Auckland’s vast and varied dining scene that we turn, sure to find something convivial or delicious in which to indulge. From celebratory parties to wine pop-ups to chefs in residence, here are all the best foodie happenings to know about (and book into) over the weekend ahead.
Party at Soul Bar & Bistro on Friday and Saturday Viaduct Harbour stalwart Soul Bar & Bistro is marking its milestone 21st birthday with an all-week party that kicked off on Monday and runs until this weekend. Inviting everyone to come down and celebrate with them, on Friday, Soul will be upgrading bottles of Mumm Champagne to magnums (although only 21 magnums are available, so don’t miss out), while on Saturday, it’s bottles of Mt Difficulty’s Roaring Meg rosé that will be given the upgrade treatment.
Roses Dining Room
Imbibe the best at Ashleigh Barrowman’s takeover at Roses Dining Room For its inaugural Winemaker In Residence event, Roses Dining Room has called on Ashleigh Barrowman (of Wine Diamonds and Still Life Wine) to curate a dining event anchored by a dream wine list full of her favourite tipples. Set to take place this Sunday (for one night only), Bowerman’s delectable wine list (which even includes some of her own bottles from her now sold-out new release) will be perfectly accompanied by a selection of tasty plates whipped up by Roses Co-Owner and Chef, Karl Bayly. Walk-ins are welcome from 4:30pm, but bookings are recommended (here).
Enjoy a taste sensation at Pickled Plates’ pop-up at Annabel’s Wine Bar This Saturday (26th November), renowned food writer, author, cook, and preserver Kylie Newton (@themodernpreserver) will be taking over Annabel’s Wine Bar for another round of her popular series, Pickled Plates. Here, she will be creating a variety of delicious small bites based around pickled or fermented ingredients, which will be served alongside Bare Wines’ best new Beaujolais of the season, from sparkling varietals to reds. And with Newton recently releasing an early teaser of what to expect on the menu (think home-cured salmon with pickled pea potato salad, and charred pickled beetroot carpaccio with horseradish rare beef), we couldn’t be more excited for this gastronomic affair. Note, there will be two seatings available, one at 5pm, and the other at 7:30 — bookings are strongly recommended and can be made by emailing Annabel’s here.
Free range chicken schnitzel with whipped feta, zucchini, peas, lemon and anchovy butter and dill from Jervois Steak House
Indulge in Jervois Steak House’s new summer menu One of our most beloved restaurants has just given its menu a seasonal shake-up, with Jervois Steak House adding a raft of fresh, enticing fare to its already-lauded offering. From Skull Island prawns with n’duja butter, lime salt and soft house-made bread to Free range chicken schnitzel with whipped feta, zucchini, peas, lemon and anchovy butter and dill, the new dishes are utterly mouth-watering and perfect for the season ahead. And if that wasn’t enough, we are giving one lucky Denizen the chance to win dinner for four. See here to read more and to enter.
Bivacco
Try something new at one of Auckland’s newest openings Switch up your weekend routine by paying a visit to one of Auckland’s new openings. For a flavour sensation and some seriously moreish noodles, head to David Lee’s Aigo on Ponsonby Road. For casual but delicious cafe fare and perfectly elevated Bruch, drop into Huddle in Glen Innes. For an intimate but bustling vibe, great drinks and tasty, seafood-centric food, try Underground Bistro — the new restaurant and bar that has just opened in K’Road’s St Kevin’s Arcade. For comforting Italian (just like Nonna makes) be one of the first to book a table at Bossi — which officially opens next Friday (we are also giving away two tickets to its opening party, see here). Or, for a fun atmosphere, a spectacular view, flowing drinks and a selection of relaxed Italian bites and mouthwatering, made-to-share dishes, look no further than Bivacco — the epic new opening in Viaduct Harbour.
It is around this time of year that we start to think more and more about our outdoor areas, from their layouts and functionality to their furniture. It’s hardly surprising really, given the amount of time we are likely to be spending outside in the coming months. But this year, we think it’s time to look beyond simply adding a new outdoor sofa or coffee table to the terrace and calling it a day. After all, why not create a space that truly gives meaning to the idea of outdoor living?
That is the essence of what Kettal’s Pavilion H offers. A space designed on the same principles of any good interior, but built to withstand the elements, it puts outdoor living on a whole new scale and will provide the perfect place to while away summer days.
Pavilion H is a fully customisable (from dimensions to material finishes), standalone, covered space that is anchored by a solid, aluminium frame. Side panels (available in a range of finishes) help to define its areas and shape its layout — whether realised as wooden slats or sliding partitions or sheer curtains or grid planters — while sliding glass doors work to keep the interior space connected to its surrounding environment.
The ceiling is able to be made in a range of materials too — each offering different degrees of weather-proofing — and is fully equipped with integrated lighting solutions that can be designed to curate the perfect atmosphere. Pavilion H is also fitted with power outlets and the ability to house a TV, should that be deemed necessary. (And considering that the structure can be made to house a full dining room or living room set-up, this may very well be the case.)
Available locally from Studio Italia and promising to take any kind of outdoor space to a whole new level, Kettal’s Pavilion H will make days in the garden, or drinks by the pool, or barbecues with friends more comfortable yes, but a whole lot more chic, too.
If someone special in your life is passionate about cooking or just considers themselves a dedicated ‘foodie,’ treat them to a selection of sleek kitchen accoutrements that are as practical as they are polished. From elevated tableware to precise chefs knives to sculptural salt-and-pepper shakers, these are the essential kitchen-adjacent accessories and tools that the gourmand in your life will simply love this Christmas.
Ginori 1735 Oriente Italiano tableware from Faradays Beautiful tableware (particularly of the Italian-made variety) is such a luxury that it always makes for a good present come Christmas time. Ginori 1735 is a brand that has honed its craft over nearly 300 years, and everything about it oozes Italian sophistication and charm — from its exquisite craftsmanship to its artisanal designs. Available locally from Faradays, each Ginori 1735 piece is precious and totally unique, which makes this brand the obvious go-to for anyone who loves to host.
Kai Shun knives from The Studio of Tableware Very few kitchen tools are as satisfying to use, or as sleek in appearance as a Japanese chef’s knife. Svelte, smooth and meticulously handmade to offer unmatched precision, these Kai Shun Knives from The Studio of Tableware are the perfect gift for anyone who loves to spend time cooking and offer something that the recipient can cherish and use for many many years.
Isosceles Book & iPad stand from Powersurge If you are looking to buy something for someone who loves a cookbook, look no further than Powersurge’s elegant Isosceles book and iPad stand. Made in New Zealand from pure brass before being hand-finished with a clear satin lacquer, this minimalist stand might be multi-purpose but will look damn fine atop a kitchen bench. It’s the perfect way for your recipient to keep their favourite recipe book at an arm’s length, always.
Junto by Rosenthal Soft Shell Deep Plate from The Studio of Tableware An ideal gift for the person who just loves to have people round for a drink and a bite, this beautiful plate, part of the Junto by Rosenthal collection from The Studio of Tableware, is a simple but useful addition to anyone’s kitchen set-up.
Mono Germany Zeug cutlery set from Simon James Step up your cutlery game with this exceptional Zeug cutlery set by Mono Germany, putting a creative spin on staple styles of the old. Originally designed by Michael Schneider and released on the occasion of the brand’s 100th anniversary in 1995, this set’s ultra-modern design was actually inspired by prehistoric tools (the knife after a hand axe, the thin fork after early spit tools and the spoon after a scooping hand), and has remained a covetable cutlery set for over two decades.
Vertuo Next White & Barista from Nespresso The next step-up in innovative, coffee-making capability, Nespresso’s Vertuo Next White & Barista machine is able to make a vast array of coffee, whether the user is a staunch long-black drinker, or can’t go past a topping of frothy milk. In fact, this machine can create over 20 types of coffee, and delivers them café-quality, at the touch of a button. Moreover, the Vertuo Next machine is made using 54% recycled materials, has Bluetooth smart technology and is Wi-Fi enabled. Trust us, any coffee-lover will be proud to display this in their kitchen. And if you want to take your gifting game to the next level, add Nespresso’s Barista milk frother in for good measure. Beyond the classic cappuccinos, lattes and flat whites, this handy tool will see the recipient making affogatos, iced frappes, mochas and latte macchiatos (to name a few). Its integrated touch screen and connected app will allow them to navigate through recipes and personalise their own recipe with ease.
Anissa Kermiche Tit for Tat ceramic salt and pepper shakers from Matches Fashion These are the perfect gift for the person who is always seeking out something different with which to dress their dining table. Ceramicist Anissa Kermiche has made quite a name for herself with pieces that are practical but that play with ideas of the human form in their aesthetic, and these salt and pepper shakers are no exception. Designed after the curvy torso of the female form, they are sure to draw comment at any dinner party and offer the perfect injection of personality into any table setting.
Bundles of Iron Bundle in Bronzed from The Ironclad Pan Co. Buy the foodie in your life something that they can get years and years of use out of with a line-up of premium iron skillets and pans from The Ironclad Pan Co. The Bundles of Iron Bundle includes the brand’s Legacy Pan, Lil’ Legacy and Old Dutch, and is the ultimate package for someone who loves to cook. Oh, and every one of The Ironclad Pan Co.’s products comes with a three-generation guarantee — so you know you’re buying unmatched quality. (You can also opt to have the pans expertly pre-seasoned, to take the gourmet element to another level.)
Aarke Carbonator 3 in Steel from Paper Plane Store While one might not immediately think of a sparkling water as a typical Christmas gift, this particular iteration is utterly perfect for that practical person in your life. The Aarke Carbonator 3 is designed to be the slimmest, most compact sparkling water maker on the market and makes accessing perfectly-carbonated water easier than ever before.
Serax Surface Casserole Dishes from ECC Buy your gourmand friend some luxurious casserole dishes by Serax from ECC. Made from cast-iron, with coloured glazing designed specifically to withstand high temperatures and retain heat, these dishes also boast cleverly-designed lids that will moisten a stew or simmer a dish with condensation so that the dish can reduce without drying up. Not only are these dishes some of the highest quality iterations of their kind, but they look the part too, with sleek lines and contemporary finishes.
Few things delight us more than a meal at Remuera’s neighbourhood favourite, Sìso. Thanks to its cosy interiors and its fresh Mediterranean fare, this is one eatery we find ourselves rebooking time and time again, whether it be for a romantic date night or an indulgent long lunch or dinner with friends (and everything in between).
Now, with the summer season heating up, it is to Sìso that we turn once again as the perfect place for the convivial get-togethers that inevitably take precedence at this time of year. And given that this stellar eatery has recently launched a delicious summer menu, the prospect of a visit here is even more appealing than ever before.
The new menu reads as an array of bold, contemporary dishes that capture the mouth-watering flavours of the Mediterranean and highlight seasonal ingredients. Those seeking a light, refreshing bite will find it in the grilled local octopus with tzatziki, baby cucumber and dill, the delicate yellow tail kingfish crudo with fermented fennel, chilli and pomegranate or the creamy burrata served with chopped peas, grilled asparagus and almond butter.
That said, the new main dishes do a good job of stealing the limelight here, with options like market fish with Southland clams, saffron risoni, green chilli and lemon, or hand cut linguine with Skull Island prawns, fermented chilli and semi-dried tomato, sitting alongside slightly heavier dishes like scaloppini of veal served with pickled golden beetroot, ras el hanout butter and toasted almonds, and a seriously tender Speckle Park beef scotch with eggplant caviar, whipped tahini and smoked bone marrow jus.
So, when considering where to book for your end-of-year dining affair, or simply for a delicious bite, we suggest that Sìso is one of your first calls. In fact, in light of its recent menu revamp, we have decided to give one lucky Denizen the chance to win a table for six (valued at $600), in order to experience it for themselves.
The iconic mini skirt is back at the forefront of fashion once more, with super-short skirts and thigh-grazing dresses daring us to show a little leg. Aside from their obvious appropriateness for combating summer heat, these styles offer super chic, feminine silhouettes that honestly go with anything. Whether you plan on pairing yours with heels and a tailored jacket or simply throwing it over your swimsuit with an oversized shirt — there is a style here to suit any shape or taste.
From left: ALAÏA Hinge Skirt from Faradays, THE GARMENT Manhattan mini skirt from Workshop, Flared miniskirt from Christian Dior.
From left: Lurex tweed mini skirt from Louis Vuitton, Kid mohair and satin miniskirt from Prada, GG tweed skirt from Gucci.
There is a reason why New Zealanders have long chosen Fiji as their family escape of choice. Beyond the incredible natural beauty and gorgeous weather of this island nation, its fascinating culture and wonderfully welcoming people are really what has us returning time and time again, each trip a chance to create lasting memories.
This has long been the case for renowned fashion designer, Karen Walker, who first visited Fiji when she was four years old, and counts it as a cherished destination of her childhood. She has since returned over 20 times as an adult, and as such, has become something of an expert in where to go, what to see and (crucially) the perfect things to pack.
Given that Walker recently returned from her latest trip, with husband Mikhail and daughter Valentina in tow, we called on her knowledge to deliver an insider’s guide on everything to consider when planning a trip to Fiji — essential for anyone thinking about making this tropical pilgrimage themselves.
How to get there
One of the biggest drawcards of Fiji for New Zealanders (particularly those with young families) is the ease of travelling there. There are over 20 flights from New Zealand to Fiji every week, with flights taking around three hours and crucially, no time difference to adjust to when you arrive. In fact, you can leave New Zealand in the afternoon and land in Fiji just in time for cocktail hour, set against an exquisite sunset over one of Fiji’s coral atolls.
If you opt to fly Fiji Airways, expect a delectable in-flight service, created by award-winning Kiwi-Fijian chef, Richard Cross, who designed the on-board menu using local ingredients in innovative ways. (Think cinnamon ice cream, Kava and more.)
Once you have landed in Fiji, the process of getting to your resort usually means more than just a simple taxi ride. If you are staying on one of Fiji’s 333 islands, getting to your final destination could mean either a helicopter or seaplane fight or a speedboat ride, all of which allow you to soak in the stunning beauty of your surrounds before disembarking on the doorstep of your resort to be immediately immersed in a traditional Fijian welcome.
As Walker says, “Arriving in Fiji and hearing Bula Maleya (the Fijian welcome song) sung and smelling the syrupy sweetness of white frangipani is one of the best feelings I know.”
Dolphin Island Resort
Where to stay
On her most recent trip, Walker revisited a favourite island — the Dolphin Island Resort — on which she had three new experiences: The Wakaya Club & Spa, Sofitel Fiji Resort & Spa and Six Senses Fiji.
Dolphin Island Resort On this private island, the sleek, luxury accommodation is run by a matronly resort manager, Dawn, who is famous for her hospitality that wraps guests in love and laughter, and has long made this resort one of the most special and memorable you are likely to experience. As Walker explains, it’s the reason she keeps going back. Only able to accommodate a maximum of eight guests, Dolphin Island feels more like being in a lovely home than a resort, and will feel like coming home every time you visit.
Wakaya Club and Spa
Wakaya Club and Spa Discover another luxurious hideaway at Wakaya Club and Spa, set on a picture-perfect private island paradise and offering accommodation for only 28 guests at a time. Boasting a beautiful, golden-sand beach (right on the doorstep of your bure), incredible snorkelling (thanks to the rich coral reef surrounding the resort) and a spectacularly lush garden from which food is harvested and which can be enjoyed by guests, the resort is truly second to none. As Walker says “[this is] without a doubt the best example of a lush, tropical environment that I’ve ever seen in Fiji”.
Sofitel Fiji Resort & Spa
Sofitel Fiji Resort & Spa Set on the sheltered western side of Viti Levu, the Sofitel Fiji Resort and Spa offers a tranquil escape on the main Denarau Island in Nadi — which makes it one of the easiest places to get to once you leave the airport. The Waitui Beach Club offers adults-only luxury like nowhere else, with lagoon-style infinity pools, a swim-up bar and cabanas galore. But beyond all of that, the Sofitel really leans into its French heritage by offering a gastronomic experience unlike anywhere else in Fiji. Offering stunning experiences such as barefoot dining in the sand, sipping house-infused rum on the Suka Bar swings, taking a walk through the on-site herb and vegetable gardens, or immersing yourself in the Fijian Night at Bazaar Kitchen & Bar, the resort is a foodie destination not to be missed.
Six Senses Fiji
Six Senses Fiji Operating with health, wellbeing and sustainability at its heart, Six Senses Fiji is a calm, luxurious escape that offers an incredible spa and astonishing villas but that also places a strong emphasis on caring for the natural environment. In fact, Six Senses Fiji is home to 39 Fijian crested iguanas, a critically endangered species with less than 5,000 remaining in the world. Karen, Mikhail and Valentina enjoyed a double villa, which offered over 300 square meters of space and not one, but two, private pools.
“Bad lighting is a pet peeve when I travel,” Karen explains, “so I especially loved the care given to the interior and the lighting at Six Senses Fiji and to know it was designed by Kiwi architect Richard Priest is even better.” She adds, “and having dozens of critically endangered Fijian crested iguanas in the rainforest near our villa was pretty darn special too.”
What to pack
In Fiji, make the most of barefoot luxury and the casual, laid-back vibe with a suitcase full of easy, breezy pieces that keep comfort front of mind. Here, Karen Walker delivers her top tips, as a seasoned Fiji holiday-goer.
Pack light — at a lot of resorts, laundry is generally included or at a small cost, so it’s really easy to re-wear your favourite holiday outfits!
Don’t overcomplicate it — Most resorts also have all the gear for activities like yoga, snorkelling, water sports and even quite often have an excellent library consisting of many of the greatest Penguin Classics so that’s half a suitcase freed up right there. My favourite holiday reads right now are Let Me Tell You What I Mean by Joan Didion and Busy Being Free by Emma Forrest.
Multiple pairs of shades, Karen Walker ones (obviously) and a spare pair of spectacles in case of any accidents. Some of my favourite shades right now are the Blow Wave Two Torts (for a classic mood), the Wavy Ultra Two Torts (for a bit more fun) and the True North Wave Sundown Triple (for a LOT more fun).
Don’t forget sun protection — I never travel in summer or to the tropics without a big hat, a paper parasol (which you can get from Wah Lee in Albert Street) and of course, my preferred sunblock, Osmosis’ Protect.
On the ground floor of Auckland’s downtown residential skyscraper, The Pacifica, sits a new Italian restaurant Bossi. Simply step off the bustling sidewalk into its inviting space, and you’ll be instantly transported to a restaurant in Rome, as you take in the sophisticated surroundings, from luscious velvet furnishings to a sleek, curved marble-top bar. In fact, the space is as fitting for an intimate date as it is for an outing with family, lunch with colleagues or a spirited gathering with friends. After all, Italian cuisine is fit for the whole family, and owner Jenna Carter intends Bossi to be a welcoming experience.
Carter had a strong vision for Bossi from the outset. She wants guests to feel like they’ve entered her home for a delicious meal — one that is reminiscent of her experience growing up within a tight-knit Italian community in Melbourne, and time spent with her late Nonna, whose portrait is proudly displayed on Bossi’s wall.
“Opening a space like Bossi has been a dream of mine for years. Born out of pure passion and fond memories cooking with my Nonna, this is an ode to her and her legacy. I’m delighted to finally welcome Aucklanders and visitors alike to enjoy the many dishes my family has grown up with for decades”, says Carter.
From left: Bossi interior, Bossi Lasagne.
Complementing Carter’s nearby Italian deli Deli di Bossi, the Bossi restaurant offers an elevated take on contemporary Italian cuisine. Headed by Executive Chef Shaun Dowling, the passionate kitchen team all have Italian ties in some way or another, and we can firmly say their handmade pasta is nothing short of exceptional. The menu features crowd-pleasers like polenta with mushroom ragu and raviolo filled with egg yolk, the latter a divine and saucy creation cooked to perfection. Dowling’s house-made limoncello is also featured on the cocktail menu and infused into creamy gelato (trust us when we say, you will savour every spoonful). As Dowling puts it, the team have spent months curating Italian dishes that are “synonymous with luxury, without losing their timeless charm”.
From left: Culurgiones with potato, gorgonzola and mushroom ragu, Bossi private dining space.
At Bossi, you may find yourself in an alluring booth, at a table, seated in the upstairs mezzanine (which can also be booked for large gatherings), or in the private dining space (which seats 10). The cherry on top is perhaps the inspired rendition of Michelangelo’s ‘The Creation of Adam’, masterfully painted by mural artist Ross Lewis. And as you revel in Bossi’s elegant setting, if you look hard enough, you may discover other Renaissance-style surprises, like the golden cherubs tucked behind the bathroom doors.
From left: Limoncello Baba, Bossi Exterior.
In our eyes, Bossi is the perfect execution of Carter’s vision, bringing an air of much-needed romance to downtown Auckland. Set to open on Friday the 2nd of December, we suggest you book a table now, as hungry Aucklanders (including the hundreds of residents in The Pacifica above) flock to this delectable new destination.
As Superette celebrates the arrival of Dyson’s innovative hair range into its online store, we sought out the guidance and stylish eye of Superette’s Rickie Dee to uncover her favourite, go-to hairstyles. Using a line-up of Dyson’s pioneering hair care technology (in the new limited-edition vinca blue & rose colours), Rickie creates a series of simple but effective looks that are timeless, effortlessly chic and suitable for any kind of occasion. More importantly, each hairstyle can be easily recreated at home. “If I’m under time pressure I can get away with a quick blow dry and then just use the Dyson Flyaway attachment,” Rickie explains, “it has a similar effect on my hair as when I straighten it and also helps with controlling frizz.”
So, whether you’re heading to a formal event, a daytime soirée or simply wanting to step up your everyday look, these three hairstyles cover all the necessary bases.
A smooth and straight hairstyle is a classic, enduring look for an evening event or dinner out. This look was achieved using the Dyson Supersonic hair dryer with the Flyaway attachment and the Dyson Corrale cordless straightener.
“My hair is naturally wavy and it takes a little more effort to get it feeling sleek… but I love styling my hair like this. I achieve this sleek look by drying my hair with the Dyson Supersonic hair dryer (it doesn’t take long to dry compared to a regular hair dryer). I then use the Dyson Corrale cordless straightener on the lowest setting to perfect the look without damaging my blonde hair. I love pairing this look with wide-leg pants, heels and a blazer”, Rickie reveals. “The Dyson Corrale cordless straightener really is streets ahead of anything I have ever used… and it’s cordless, so I can pop it in my bag to do touchups if need be and ensure my hair stays sleek all day”.
Elevate the every day with a sleek low bun, matching your effortlessly chic attire. This look was achieved using the Dyson Supersonic hair dryer with the Flyaway attachment.
“This really is my go-to, everyday office look. It’s super quick and easy, and ideal for when I’m busy and I don’t have time to wash my hair” Rickie tells us. “I start by styling my hair into a low bun. I run the Dyson Supersonic hair dryer with the Flyaway attachment down the bun before securing it into position to remove any frizz and flyaways to execute a polished, effortless look. I pair my look with a relaxed pant and shirt combo, or with jeans and a t-shirt. It’s my staple outfit.”
Take your look from day to night with soft, beachy waves — a hairstyle you’ll achieve with ease using the Dyson Airwrap multi styler.
“I use the Dyson Airwrap multi styler in the long version as my hair sits just below my shoulders. It helps create a more defined beach wave, and a salon-style blow-dry at home. Because the Dyson Airwrap multi styler dries and styles at the same time, it makes my routine so much simpler”, Rickie says. “My hair is naturally a little wavy so I like that it looks effortless and uncomplicated…a little like my natural hair. It feels understated, yet still put together.”
Lovers of design can be some of the most difficult people to buy for come Christmas time, simply because they tend to have very particular tastes. That said, we have been careful to curate a lineup of design-forward items that are sure to tick any box. From objets d’art to fine furniture, these pieces will impress even the most discerning design collector. You’re welcome.
Reverse Table Lamp by Aleksandar Lazic for Menu from Tim Webber Designed to highlight the beauty of natural materials, Menu’s Reverse Table Lamp, designed by Danish designer Aleksandar Lazic, is an exquisite ode to simplicity. Inspired by Italian marble tables from the 1970s and a play on structures created by geometric constraints, Lazic conceived the lamp with a conical travertine base and curved, bronzed aluminium shade, offering a perfectly-balanced silhouette and practical but sophisticated lighting solution for any space.
Haller Bedside Unit by Paul Schaerer & Fritz Haller for USM from ECC Utter simplicity sits at the heart of Haller’s USM system, something that is particularly true when it comes to the most practical piece in any private space — the bedside table. Available in a range of variations to suit any desire, need, or specific aesthetic, this particular bedside unit is sleek, understated and able to be made to exacting dimensions, making it perfect for those with unique requirements or especially discerning tastes.
Vase ZZ66A-503 and Vase ZZ66A-502 by Ettore Sottsass for Bitossi from Matisse Give the design-lover in your life something eye-catching for their dining table, kitchen bench or living room with these geometric vases. Designed by Ettore Sottsass for Bitossi, these two black and white pieces are made from hand-turned white clay and are finished in a modern, matte, black-and-white pattern that is undeniably head-turning.
Zig Zag pouf by Kettal fromStudio Italia Perfect for someone with an outdoor space in need of dressing, the Zig Zag Pouf by Kettal is an easy, contemporary design piece that is as practical as it is easy on the eye. Made from hardy rope that has been cleverly fixed over a subtly geometric aluminium frame, this piece is something the recipient is sure to find useful over the summer season.
Pumpkin Swivelling armchair by Pierre Paulin from Ligne Roset If you want to splash out on someone particularly special, why not treat them to a true investment piece? The iconic Pumpkin Swivelling Armchair by Pierre Paulin from Ligne Roset (originally designed in 1971 for the private collection of a former French president) is not only a universally-loved, truly exceptional piece of design, but is something that any lucky recipient will cherish in their homes for the rest of their lives. From its gently-curved shape to the way in which it welcomes hours of relaxed lounging, this chair is one that every design aficionado will want to tick off their list.
Opal Glass Bowl by Kristina Dam from Frobisher The perfect stocking stuffer for any design lover, the beautifully-crafted Opal Glass Bowl by Kristina Dam boasts soft, rounded curves and a minimalist, almost-retro finish. Made from double-layered, hand-blown glass, it is destined to fit right in on any well-curated bookshelf or coffee table.
Galaxy Z Flip4 from Samsung Strike the right balance for someone who likes good design as much as they enjoy innovative technology with Samsung’s new Galaxy Z Flip4 — the bold new take on the classic flip phone. From its slim-line design, its subtle but versatile colour options and its 6.7-inch display on Ultra Thin Glass to its superior photo quality, this phone really is a design lover’s dream. It also boasts advanced durability thanks to its screen made from exclusive Corning Gorilla Glass Victus, a hinge protected by Armor Aluminum (Samsung’s toughest aluminium frame) and its ability to sit in 1.5-metres of water for up to 30 minutes without being affected at all. Perfect for beach season, we think.
Gyselle Mirror by Opera Contemporary from Sarsfield Brooke Proving that sometimes, it’s the simple, practical things that make the best presents, Opera Contemporary’s Gyselle Mirror is the kind of gift that your design-conscious friend might not be expecting but is sure to absolutely love. Made in an elegant oval shape and finished with a sleek, metal frame, this chic mirror is available in a range of sizes and finishes to suit any space.
Jackson Easy chair from Devon The perfect gift for anyone with an epic outdoor area, the Jackson Easy Chair from Devon is a cool, contemporary piece that your recipient will get plenty of use out of over the summer months. Finished in fine sanded teak and a durable, handwoven weave, this chair will look as at home on a sprawling balcony as it will around any well-loved, al fresco dining table.
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