When it comes to a certain level of design, innovating within that realm showcases the pure ingenuity of technology and craftsmanship for truly stunning results.
The timepieces within Rolex’s collections are exquisite examples of watchmaking technology that exceeds the norm, harnessing the innovation so respected by the iconic maker’s legions of devoted wearers and collectors — and its new 2020 collection is no different.
We couldn’t be more impressed with the four new watches joining its Oyster Perpetual collection, rendered in a range of suitably handsome materials with impeccable finishes.
The new Oyster Perpetual Datejust 31 timepiece utilises Rolesor (combining Oystersteel and 18 carat white gold), with the dial available in four different variations. We are particularly besotted with the first, featuring a bezel set with 46 brilliant-cut diamonds with an aubergine, sunray finish dial and a diamond-set Roman VI.
A new Oyster Perpetual 41 joins the range, as well as vivid new lacquer dial variations of the Oyster Perpetual 36, with the Oyster Perpetual 41 offering a Chromalight display — meaning the hands and hour markers are coated or filled with a luminescent material that emits a long-lasting blue glow in dark conditions.
Two new Submariner professional divers’ watches have also beenunveiled with a redesigned and slightly larger, 41 mm case, both guaranteed to be waterproof to a depth of 300 metres (1,000 feet).
Lastly, the new Sky-Dweller model has been fitted with an Oysterflex bracelet for the first time, made from a metal overlaid with a comfortable elastomer, a high-performing material that is very durable and resistant to environmental effects.
Whether your style is statement-making or subtle, you can be sure these new additions to the Rolex family, like all the watchmaker’s timepieces, are unparalleled in their performance and aesthetics. Innovative yet classic, they are yet another expression watchmakers’ reputation for excellence.
There is something about the 80s that feels particularly appealing right now. Perhaps it’s in looking back at the era’s hedonistic, over-the-top culture, that we’re reminded how reserved we are in comparison. As a result, the 80s is experiencing a resurgence in design and architecture — more reimagined than replicated — but still bringing the experimental proportions and fun finishes of the era into a contemporary context.
Lambert & Fils’ Beaubien Wall Double Shade light, from Backhouse,nods to this home’s 80s sensibility with its striking, geometric shape.
In this large Melbourne home, Director of Doherty Design Studio, Mardi Doherty, embraced notes of the 80s to create glamorous, fun spaces, highlighting the building’s more unusual features and re-configuring the layout to make it suited to a family with three children. Working alongside building designers Ari Alexander Design Group and Ben Scott Garden Design, Mardi ensured that the charming bones of the home didn’t get lost in its new identity — choosing to nod to 80s sensibilities by using bold colours, and employing striking, geometric architectural details.
An expansive entranceway with custom terrazzo floors frames the residence’s piece de resistance, a pitched glass atrium that runs the length of the home and sets the artistic tone to follow. Sculptural, colourful artworks feature in every room, and introduce an element of intrigue so that anyone thinking they have this home’s number, is surprised at every turn. Colour is employed with confidence. Like in the small sitting room, for example, an arresting, dark green space with an opulent, verdant shell and one wall tiled in mirrors (a direct ode to the 80s).
Out the back, a new extension comprising two new bedrooms stands in curved contrast to the home’s more triangular features. Clad in powder-coated aluminium battens, the addition is as sculptural as it is practical, exemplifying a balance that has been mastered throughout the rest of the residence.
From the kitchen, bathed in all-day sunlight and featuring a three-and-a-half metre Cote d’Azur marble bench and navy-blue cabinetry, to the cocktail bar, cleverly designed to conceal a column that was too expensive to remove and conveniently located between all the downstairs living spaces, to the outdoor fire pit and swimming pool, this home is filled with opportunities to entertain. While upstairs, the bedrooms and master suite are designed for each individual family member — creating an environment that can be busy and bustling or quiet and calm, the two modes never mutually exclusive.
After studying interior architecture at New York’s Parson School of Design and doing post graduate work on hospitality projects for renowned American design firm Meyer Davis, Danielle Bates returned to New Zealand in 2005 to launch her own interior design company. With a portfolio of exceptional completed design work that spans both high-end residential homes working alongside some of the country’s most revered architects, and hospitality design, including the recent refit of Soul Bar & Bistro, Bates shares her design inspirations.
Soul Bar & Bistro interiors by Danielle Bates
I don’t like to over-design. My objective is always to create something calming, individualised and timeless.
My work is influenced by a client’s initial thoughts and images, which I use to develop a concept. I’ll then guide them into a unique and timeless aesthetic, taking into consideration three essential elements: architectural tonal texturing, which I define as the creation of depth and form with similarly coloured materials in an architecturally defined manner; a neutral palette that allows for colour, personality and distinctiveness through art, accessories and accent furniture; and a synergy between exterior and interior materials.
I love the design work of Vincent Van Duysen. His architecture and interiors are flawless to me. There is an understated beauty in the materials he uses, especially his unique timber finishes. I would be very happy if I had his sample library in my office. I am also inspired by his integration of light and dark components, along with the way he uses traditional elements in a modern way. Closer to home I think that Brett Lee Studio in Sydney has some beautiful work. I like the neutrality and tonality of these spaces but would personally favour furniture that was more inviting.
From left: Revert side tables by John Eric Byers; Era chair by David Lopez Quincoces for Living Divani from Studio Italia
One of the most versatile pieces of furniture I’ve come across is the Era Easy Chair in leather by Living Divani. It is an excellent desk, dining and accent chair.
My three favourite furniture pieces are the Depadova Yak Armchair in black leather — it lifts the game in any room and is the most comfortable chair I know. A large cubic coffee table made out of Pietra Grey stone that I recently designed for one of my clients, and a Baxter Miami Roll sofa that I have never found the right space for. It needs a very large secondary living (or entertaining) area.
I enjoy working on hospitality projects as there is more opportunity for creative risk-taking. I like a lot of the hotels and restaurants designed by Meyer Davis Studio in New York. I also like the hotels of Block722+ in Greece.
The last thing I bought for myself personally and loved was a Revert side table by John Eric Byers.
Queenstown home interiors by Danielle Bates. Photo: Marina Mathews
I have very fond memories of San Miguel de Allende in Mexico. It is elegant and super stylish with well preserved historic architecture. Police ride on horseback through the cobbled streets wearing chic electric blue jackets and white jodhpurs. There are some fantastic rooftop restaurants and many inspiring boutique design stores.
On my personal wish list is a Piet Boon Kobe coffee table.
I’m always inspired by projects that employ a clever combination of stone and metal, I love to create bespoke hardware or accents that elevate and surprise.
The last design piece I added to a project that I loved was a Baxter Damasco sofa and ottoman.
One book all people passionate about design should read is Ezra Stoller, Photographer. It is a breathtaking collection of photography that captures iconic modernist structures. Stoller had a unique ability to turn buildings into monuments through his stunning visual photography.
Queenstown home interiors by Danielle Bates
A current inspiration for me is modern Brutalist concrete architecture, past and present. Although it is a controversial, polarising aesthetic and there is a lot of it I don’t enjoy, I find the simplicity and rawness of some structures magnificent.
Before I moved to New York, Wallpaper magazine introduced me to the world of design and undiscovered travel destinations. I have a complete archive. I never wanted to miss out on the next city to be reviewed. And at the time I was particularly obsessive about the advent of boutique hotels, and restaurant and bar interiors.
If I wasn’t doing what I am, I would work in film. I appreciate the art of captivating and transporting viewers from their reality.
While Auckland has certainly seen a lion’s share of enticing new hospitality openings this year, longevity and reliability is to be celebrated — especially given the recent hardships faced by the industry at large.
Vietnamese restaurant Cafe Hanoi is one such restaurant, marking a decade in business this year with an exciting move to a new venue. But, don’t worry, it’s not going far — co-owners Tony McGeorge and Krishna Botica have worked with Cheshire Architects to create a brand new restaurant in the site of the old 1885 nightclub.
Chargrilled beef bavette
With a larger dining space, the restaurant will also encompass an open kitchen with chef’s table counter seating and a private dining room that can accommodate 44 guests, double that of the original private space.
Executive chef Nathan Houpapa has created a new menu that draws heavily on his culinary experience travelling throughout Asia, and the traditional French influence in Vietnamese cuisine.
The Sharman cocktail
Highlights include anise roast duck; chargrilled beef bavette with fish-sauce caramel; chargrilled local octopus with green chilli kaffir sauce; and New Zealand clams with lemongrass ginger broth and Thai basil.
It’s a new and exciting era for Cafe Hanoi, says Botica, who can’t wait to welcome guests to the beautiful new space for the same delightful experience the restaurant is known and loved for.
The sun is out, and so are we — of Level 3 lockdown. Again. One of the hardest parts about lockdown is not being able to see friends and family if they’re not part of our bubble. Another, perhaps more privileged challenge, is missing the act of going out for a meal.
Now we’re all allowed to mingle again, why not plan to reunite with your loved ones around a table in one of Auckland’s many great restaurants?
Ponsonby Road Bistro Always consistent, and consistently cosy, Ponsonby Road Bistro is our go-to in the suburb for a snug and relaxed meal with loved ones. We’ll have the confit duck, thanks.
The Engine Room We always feel at home at Northcote Point establishment The Engine Room, thanks to its hospitable interior that’s as welcoming as its staff and enticing bistro dishes, such as steak frites or pork schnitzel.
Ortolana Italian-inspired bistro Ortolana turns on the charm for every one of its patrons, helped along by its cheery space. Sit beneath the distinctive twinkling Monmouth glass lights and dig in to one of the expert pastas or locally-sourced meat dishes.
The Golden Nest at Woodpecker Hill
The Golden Nest at Woodpecker Hill The Golden Nest at Woodpecker Hill is a new incarnation of an old favourite — you guessed it, Parnell’s Woodpecker Hill. Recently revitalised with a menu focused on sharing plates and smaller, snackier portions, this is the perfect place to catch up over dumplings, cheesburger baos and cocktails.
Williams Eatery It’s no surprise family-run Williams Eatery are experts at a warm welcome, with its Wynyard Quarter space providing the perfect spot to soak up the sun over delicious brunch fare, a small selection of irresistible pasta and a glass of natural wine. Cheers to that.
Cassia Something about stepping down the stairs into Cassia’s warm, inviting space has us feeling instantly cocooned. Coupled with the incredible flavours of the modern Indian restaurant’s menu, it’s always a winner.
Ahi Why not celebrate a reunion with your nearest and dearest by experiencing a newly-opened eatery together? Ahi, Ben Bayly’s highly-anticipated new restaurant, has just opened at Commercial Bay, and the menu is a tasty celebration of New Zealand ingredients.
Culprit
Culprit Chefs and Culprit owners Kyle Street and Jordan MacDonald know how to make a meal special and memorable. Opt for the ‘Taste of Culprit’, involving the restaurants famed trolley bites plus a shared main and sides for the table, or the ‘Epic Menu’ which will see you taken on a delicious culinary journey of the duo’s signature inventive flavours.
Apéro Walking into Karangahape Road wine bar and eatery Apéro, you’ll instantly feel at ease in the long, brick-walled room. With a menu of simple yet expertly-executed dishes and a considered wine list, it’s an ideal spot to while away an hour or three getting each other up to date on all you missed during lockdown.
Ostro This downtown institution boasts some of the best views in the city. Tucking into a meal as the sparkling water lights up the faces of the ones you love, you could take advantage of dining with more people by ordering from the ‘to share’ section — slow cooked Te Mana lamb shoulder, anyone?
Gemmayze St What better cuisine to eat for a family reunion than one that’s all about community? Lebanese eatery Gemmayze St will see you in good stead with any one of its mezze dishes, and the airy space means there’s plenty of room.
Regardless of whether your old man is a nature lover, an art buff or just a simple dinner-and-drinks type of guy, there’s plenty you can do to celebrate Father’s Day. Simply consult our list below and let the brownie points roll in.
Take him out to dine Dinner is not exactly a groundbreaking concept, but the joy of a good feed with good company is something we’re not taking for granted as of late. There’s an array of enticing dinner deals on around Auckland, from favourites such as Ostro‘s Sunday Roast, Soul‘s special three-course meal and NSP‘s long Italian-inspired lunch (with frosty Peroni included). We’ve rounded up the best places to visit in town this Father’s Day, be sure to get in quick to secure your spot.
Have him indulge in a spa treatment It’s fairly likely Dad’s brushed up against some unusually stressful situations this year, so a luxurious spa treatment of some sort is long overdue. Luckily, the experts have it covered, with a suite of relaxing and invigorating options available. East Day Spa is offering Dad’s Day Off and Pampering For Papa packages, incorporating a mix of massage, facials and treatments. Elsewhere, Spring Spa has it covered with Boxing Pro (including Hemp Seed massage and Studio Box class pass) and Detox Dad (including signature massage and Codage facial) packages. Forme Spa‘s Rock Me and Work Me Out massages are also a popular pick, as is its Biolements Facial for Men.
Take him shopping There’s only so much online shopping one can do, so why not go analogue with an IRL retail experience. Whether Dad needs something in particular or simply wants to explore recently opened destinations like Commercial Bay, pop to shops and make it a day to remember.
Peruse an art gallery Get a well-deserved dose of culture by visiting one of Auckland’s excellent art galleries. We recommend Auckland Art Gallery‘s exhibition I’m Your Man (A Portrait of Leonard Cohen), which pays tribute to the works of revered musician and poet Leonard Cohen. It’s perfect for art buffs and music aficionados alike. If you’ve forgotten a gift, nip to the thoughtfully curated gift shop.
Go for a hike Put those long lockdown walks to good use and link up with your dad for an amble in the great outdoors. From beachside strolls to bush treks, there’s plenty of beautiful local walks and hikes across Auckland to choose from. Fresh air and quality time — what more could you want?
Or, just buy him a gift and be done with it If time pressure or distance has disrupted best-laid plans, never fear, there’s always the option of a great gift. From simple tokens of love to sublime gestures, our gift guide is sure to inspire the perfect present for your dad.
Embracing our restored freedom once again with a bang, Ben Bayly’s highly-anticipated new restaurant has opened in Commercial Bay.
Named Ahi, meaning ‘fire’ in Te Reo Māori, the eatery is situated on level 2 of the humming downtown precinct and champions the unparalleled produce of Aotearoa in a way that aims to pay homage to both our special local ingredients, and the “people who harvest, prepare and serve them.”
From left: Ahi interior; scampi corn dog. Right photo: Anna Kidman
Multi-award-winning chef Bayly is opening the eatery as co-owner in conjunction with Christopher Martin, who will also be overseeing operations as the restaurant’s manager.
Bayly’s working career spans senior chef roles at Michelin-starred restaurants in France and London, and on our shores he has been a culinary force at 3 Hat restaurant The Grove, Baduzzi and Aosta in Arrowtown — now he’s channelling all his skill and talent into this new venture, to cook New Zealand food with a story.
From left: Butterfish in bull kelp; tahr tartare. Photography by Manja Wachsmuth.
The menu is exciting in its originality and inventiveness, often utilising traditional Māori cooking techniques in a contemporary way. To start, a selection of snacks are on offer, the likes of hangi paua with kahawai, sour cream and kawakawa; Whangaripo buffalo steak and cheese savouries and a scampi corndog all bring a fresh spin on what is considered ‘Kiwi cuisine’.
Larger dishes are equally enticing. Butternut with toasted harakeke, longkeeper jus and young punga joins the likes of boil up toast with Berkshire pork; charcoaled crayfish with a lemon-sorrel salad; wild fallow deer with parsnip and brussels; and butterfish wrapped in bull kelp with sea asparagus, plated to look remarkably like a glistening dark green pounamu.
From left: Pine and apple; caramelised marshmallow; granny smith sorbet and pine oil; Ahi lockdown sourdough
While there’s no doubt a large part of Commercial Bay’s appeal lies in its international hospitality offering, it’s brilliant to see a restaurant joining the ranks that is celebrating all the incredible native ingredients and food heritage our home country has to offer.
Ahi
Level 2
Commercial Bay
7/21 Queen Street
Auckland CBD 1010
New York might be a city of apartment-dwellers, but for a contingent of its population, home is found in the late 19th- and 20th-Century mansions that are peppered through chichi neighbourhoods like the Upper East Side — offering sprawling, opulent floor plans over multiple levels. This is one such property.
Set on a site that was originally two separate homes before being unceremoniously turned into a small apartment building, this Upper East Side townhouse began with a demolition that allowed its new owners to start from scratch. Taking the 32-foot-wide double lot and constructing a 14,000 square-foot, seven-storey home (with seven bedrooms and eight bathrooms), the owners commissioned interior design studio Meyer Davis to finesse the details, a task its longtime director Elizabeth Curry took on readily and executed, alongside associate Josh Suckle, with aplomb.
Architecturally, the house is classical with a dignified, imposing presence that invokes the same kind of stately manner its 20th Century original would have presented.
But for the team at Meyer Davis, it seems, reimagining the old world details through a minimalist lens, and throwing a soupçon of whimsy into the mix for good measure, was how this home would be made to feel contemporary while remaining true to its history.
Between the parquet floors, the simple palette and the panelled walls, the designers introduced ultra-modern touches. A circular, sculptural chandelier by Niamh Berry for example, presides over the walnut-panelled library, while elsewhere, neon artworks by Tracey Emin and a tubular glass light feature by Mathieu Lehanneur offer intriguing, contemporary counterpoints.
Here, the designers have made everything about balance — on the one hand, ensuring classical features are honoured, on the other, subverting expectations. The white porcelain Lily of The Valley tendrils that weave along the panelled plaster wall connecting the first and second floors, exemplify the two ideas coming together in harmony.
Embracing the idea of surprise and delight, the team at Meyer Davis has managed to bridge the significant gap between the old world and the avant-garde, creating an ethereal home that is magnificent in scale and courageous in execution.
As a new parent or parent to be, being presented with the number of items a newborn requires — and how swiftly they no longer need them — can be overwhelming.
Catering to the excess that exists in the newborn realm is a savvy new consignment platform, Lullabuy. Dedicated to addressing the ongoing issues that every parent has, whether it’s finding a cost-effective solution to securing decent products that have been lightly used, or what to do with the pram, capsule or crib once the little one has grown out of it.
Lullabuy’s business model not only helps parents either sell or buy goods, but also contributes to problems of excess in the industry, by extending the life-cycle of these pre-loved items. With a goal to provide new families with quality goods that are no longer of use, while also reducing waste — a pertinent factor now more than ever — Lullabuy has created a successful online platform to buy and sell both new and pre-loved premium and high-end baby accessories.
On the first Monday of each month, Lullabuy holds a sale via their Instagram story, showcasing a slick edit of curated baby items. Often comprising such items as unused Gucci baby blankets, the sought-after Nuna Leaf, brand new Stokke Tripp Trapp high-chairs, and gently preloved Bugaboo Prams, the sales have been a huge success.
So if you’re on the hunt for high end baby goods at a fraction of the price, or you just need to clear out the garage of your no longer used items, Lullabuy could be the perfect solution.
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