FLORAISON THE AESTHETIC SIDE OF LUXURY SUSTAINABILITY ISSUE THREE | SS/ 2021 DELECTABLE INTERIORS DESIGNS BUILT TO LAST
editor's notes In this third issue of Floraison, we have taken the idea of conceptual experience to a new level. To speak through stories, to express through photography and to introduce new brands and to praise existing brands in their quest to become sustainable whilst still maintaining luxury at its core. The notion of luxury is heightened when we appreciate that the luxury is sourced responsibly, when we understand that new architecture and products are creating history in the making. We can see a resurgence of oldclassic designs returning with a sustainable slant. The future for art, design, culture and travel is exciting and in issue 3, we want to delve into this further. We want you to be excited. As always, we are at your service and truly I hope that you enjoy this issue and can go on both a spiritual and mental journey with us into the exciting world of redefined luxury. Jennifer Durrans, floraison OUR CONCEPTUAL MAGAZINE OFFERS A WAY TO LEARN DEEPER ABOUT THE STORIES OF BRANDS DELVING INTO SUSTAINABLE LUXURY, THOSE WHO ALREADY HAVE ESTABLISHED BUSINESSES AND INDIVIDUALS WITH A PASSION TO CHANGE. EACH ISSUE WE TAKE READERS ON A JOURNEY, FROM THE DEPTHS OF THE MOROCCAN DESERT, TO THE CERULEAN BLUES OF THE GREAT BARRIER REEF. LET'S DISCOVER TOGETHER.
CONTENTS kreeo, page 1 Exceptional design with extraordinary creativity and experimentation in the field of marble anatomy boutique, page 4 Delve into a world of human art, the brand creating luxury pieces out of the elements of the human anatomy neoclassical Amaranthine, page 5 Neoclassical design is on the rise and timeless design captures the soul., a haven in Naxos awaits, page 7 Smell the salty air of Naxos as we discover all this island has to offer with sustainable luxury travel eichkorn design, page 11 German excellence at its finest. Using the finest sustainable materials, we hear from Felix Eichkorn and Ruben Rebmann the moral obligation of green architecture, page 15 How can we shape the future of sustainable architecture?
CONTENTS once upon a time in Ancient Greece, page 16 The heaven that is Greece has inspired many a generation in its quest for sustainability. arabic finesse, page 17 Egyptian cotton, sustainable resorts, there is a majestic story ready to be told. quilts for the fairies, page 22 The importance of Egyptian cotton in the world and retail. piet boon, page 23 Multi-disciplinary design meets chic, the two properties that Piet Boon impeccably crafted. oh, Tel Aviv!, page 27, 28 brutalist resurgence, page 29 Is the brutalist architecture making a comeback in 2021? maya plains, page 33 Africa's wonders stretch far beyond its beauty, but rather to the businesses that are settling there too.
CONTENTS davani, page 37 Davani exclusively introduce and unveil their new product \"PURITY\" to us. seychelles, page 41 Tropical adventures await in the Seychelles. Discover a unique world. crisp cardboard, Noelle Rigaudie, page 45 Noelle Rigaudie talks to us about the journey of crafting furniture and decor from cardboard. A journey of luxury upcycling. casa modesta, page 49 The Algarve's hidden gem. Andreas Senoner, page 52 A magnificent creator of designs speaks with us about his visions and the world of creative design.
KREOO Sculpture balances art with culture. Art balances style with science. Kreoo aspires and succeeds in doing both. A definition of sculpture: \"the art of making two- or three-dimensional representative or abstract forms\". A unique piece of art is timeless; Kreoo delve into the world of marble interiors. Venetian vanity, with a nod to the beautiful Italian marble which adorns its pieces. An interior can reign in supremacy when it offers a majestic style. Marble is timeless in its composition, yet it still allows for a modern entitlement. Floraison Magazine 01
Each project Kreeo develops is a work of art, crafted to perfection in distinct colour schemes and marble variations Floraison Magazine 02
Photos: Kreoo \"Kreoo is Decormarmi’s intenational design brand.\" Exploring the finest marble patterns across multiple designs means Kreoo conquered the very foundations of modern exquisite design. Interior design must effortlessly merge with contemporary living in a modern world. Crafted in Italy, Kreoo lifts the veil of chromatic formal language. Floraison Magazine www.kreoo.com 03
Anatomy Boutique Have you ever considered the intracacies of the human heart? The surges of power it feeds on in order to continue forging the circle of life? A single human heart. The iconic heart shape as a symbol of love is traditionally thought to come from the silphium plant. However, the real shape of our most treasured human organ is in fact that of an inverted cone. Anatomy boutique, dubbing themselves 'Dark Decadence for your home' curate pieces of artwork that spin tales of human life. The fascination of the human body has long captured the minds of scientists and doctors alike. The precious commodity of a human body can be forever adored in the shape of multiple designs. Emily Evans is the mastermind behind Anatomy Boutique. \"After 20 years of my career dissecting, teaching and drawing anatomy in the academic field, for me, there is still a sense of the spectacular about it.\" Floraison Magazine 04
NEOCLASSIC AMARANTHINE the art that never dies Refinement and solemnity in the design of neoclassical furniture Clarity and austerity are the highlight of a neoclassical sculpture. will help to emphasize various decorative elements. The material of the sculptures, without paintings, was displayed. Without exaggeration, the images kept the expression of the In architecture, the neoclassical on the left presents a meeting scenes depicted. The Italian Antonio Canova (1757-1821) This was point between the accuracy of the Greek and Roman models and the largest and most prestigious representative of sculpture from the rationality of enlightenment. Classical architecture, period of this period. Painter, the artist showed your ability with the 16- inheritance and use of noble materials, such as granite, marble, year-old sculpture when we received orders. Its classic taste was wood, and advanced technology. The splendor and monumentality sharp in your extensive production. came to the Romans ; Grace and lightness, of the Greeks. The Enlightenment, must Neoclassical architecture, simplicity and The classical styles in architecture are often admirable, but on the logic, in construction. other hand they often evoke connotations of totalitarian or authoritarian regimes. Huge palaces with generational and ionic It can be considered that, in sculpture, a neoclassical signed in columns with arches and gables clad in huge domes have often two stages. Initially, the approach with classical culture, became characterized undemocratic regimes throughout history. A clear about the references to philosophers and mythology. With particularly bad example is the models prepared by the right hand the age of Napoleon, carved images began to glorify the figure of of Hitler, the architect Albert Schaeffer, who dreamed of the emperor, who appeared horses, demonstrating the power of Germany as the capital of the world which would be embedded in your Tasagata. huge classical structures and human dwarfs. Floraison Magazine 05
\"A genius, News, is the one who gives the law of art. Since What continues to make Neoclassical Architecture so pleasing is his talent during productive college belongs to the native its aesthetic quality. An undying love for this style dominates the nature of the artist, even if you can express in this way. interior and exterior designs of modern day. A stellar example is Genius is the elimination of a homeland of spirit, by that of the work of Jean-Louis Deniot, who emphasises modern which nature gives to all art.\" (Kant, 1998, p. 211) design with neoclassic distinction. A delight to the eye, his work in Moscow, Paris and London moulds a future of neoclassic The more sympathetic example is the monumental structures of delight with conceptual art - the idea is that his designs are far Athens, which is relatively democratic for its time. Prince Charles, from simple. They are in fact a labyrinth of deep shades, worldly also a descendant of a particularly institutional dynasty, noted textures and rich golds. over the years his aversion to modern and contemporary architecture and his admiration for historical styles. You will find We see hotels such as Monsoir Didot, in the heart of neoclassic neoclassical architecture in abundance in Athens, as well as cities architecture, in Athens Greece, boast neutral earthy elegance such as Edinburgh, Scotland and areas of Paris, France. among dashes of deep blues and reds. The journey is far from over. Amalgamating with art deco and contemporary art, we will likely In an effort to incorporate neoclassical design into interiors, you continue to see this art form expanding over the next hundred must seek out the intricacies of this era. When you are inspired by years. the art of the masters in the 1700s, you awaken a thirst for creation. the art that never dies ATHENIAN HISTORY Floraison Magazine 06
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Marble has been used for construction, sculpture and more for thousands of years. Without it it is difficult to see ancient art existing, especially the ancient art of sculpture and construction. This is especially noticeable in light of its preservation in the earth as an archaeological find, for thousands of years, and indeed, marble was the main raw material for classical sculpture, in ancient Greece and in Roman times. It was used for the same purposes during the Renaissance, which revived the sculptural style and artistic principles of those ancient periods. Geologically, marble is a particularly hard and durable crystalline rock. Through the ages it has been used to build strong and stable temples and palaces, which had it not been for the deliberate collapse of conquerors and armies or earthquakes, they would surely still be in place. To soak up the Greek sun is something that has long left a sweet taste in our mouths. The majestic island of Naxos, hidden within the oasis of the Cyclades, has an abundance of crisp white buildings carved into the rocky slopes. To Amiro hotel, situated within the caramel landscape is complemented by the warm currents of the Aegean. It provides eco-friendly tourism, which converges with modern design. www.toarmiro.gr Floraison Magazine 08
Faithful to the beauty of its surroundings, To Amiro has built its strong reputation on the way in which it operates. Woods and bamboos embellish the decor, with clean, crisp aesthetics. Recycling all waste provides a sustainable element for the residents of the area and the wildlife in which surrounds it. Water consumption is limited, and as you wander through the tranquil grounds, you can relinquish your worries and surrender to the turqoise waters that surround it. The hotel consists of a complex of five two or three bedroom houses with traditional names. www.toarmiro.gr Floraison Magazine 09
\"In one step we unfold all that is beautiful in our world: To sustain the very foundations of what first brought life to fruition. To understand the demand for agricultural security, to allow the wilderness in all its rugged glory, to continue blooming long after human life leaves it. To sustain. To thrive. To begin as new.\" www.toarmiro.gr Floraison Magazine 10
Coffee Table | Eichkorn www.eichkorn-design.de 11 www.eichkorn-design.de Floraison
Eichkorn Stepping Into German Excellence The personification of excellence; Eichkorn have provided aesthetic creations from “puristic design” which encapsulates raw beauty, with sustainable design. Impeccable craftsmanship creates a story in every piece. They use fine materials in each project, which offers not only a luxurious concept to each piece, but a sustainable element. From limestone creations, to brass and burned cherrywood, sustainability is one of the eminent components that bring Eichkorn into a prominent position within the interior industry. Having exhibited at Maison and Objet, Eichkorn’s ongoing projects are undoubtedly captivating. Created in Germany, Eichkorn uses sustainable materials that create timeless art. We can appreciate that art is subjective, but its cultivated qualities beckon any eye. Promising companies no longer use unsustainable materials to craft their art; and with the uprising of ‘better world, better creations’ mentality, there is no denying the value in them. Felix Eichkorn and Ruben Rebmann are the minds behind the genius. Growing up in small town Germany allowed them to explore the concept of nature, all of which is found uniquely in their work. Whilst they delved into the workings of a 100-year old workshop, they acquired numerous skills that allowed them to create the world of Eichkorn; now a worldwide brand. Floraison Magazine www.eichkorn-design.de 12
Photos: Eichkorn “For us the design has to be timeless. We think that this is the most important aspect. Sustainability is very related to this, as only timeless designs can be truly sustainable. Otherwise, you will want to buy a new piece once the trends have changed.” Says Felix Eichkorn. Nature captures the creative mind Using nature to inspire art is a concept that has become a novel concept in recent years. From sketches through to craftsmanship, the beauty of the external world plays a role in adapting it into tangible products. Sculpture is a huge principle; its shape, its function must both exquisitely perpetuate one another. Their sculptural furniture pieces include the FulgarTable, Oka Console, Gerd Bench and much more. Clean modern shapes; slick spatian and symmetrical lines, create a neat design. Smooth textures and colour detailing, denote statement and function combined, a smoldering finesse that excels itself every time. Lustrous presentation adds to the allure. The Fulgar Table [pictured below], recreates a “meteor-like surface”, burrowing ferociously into the concept of outer space and celestial characteristics. Solid and fearless, there is no denying its presence, or its shire organic design. Floraison Magazine www.eichkorn-design.de 13
Crafting a masterpiece Each item of furniture or decorative pieces are crafted within different timeframes; depending on their finish and their size. “Quality takes time”, says Ruben Rebmann, which essentially illustrates the meaning of quality to the brand itself. The seamless creation of each piece is played with delicate precision, experimental design has led to idiosyncratic design, exploration of new materials and transformation; to crPehaottoes:aEichkorn Design bespoke final product time after time. Sketching takes discipline, and Felix Eichkorn and Ruben Rebmann have this in abundance. Yet at the core of it all, remains the main thesis: inspiration. Inspiration reigns supreme in every case, because there is an element of excitement to which they live by when creating new designs. For companies today, this is a prerequisite, the value of mindful practice and using eco-friendly materials to create a faultless finish. Take a trip through the sublime process, and tap into the alchemy of German craftsmanship at its finest, with Eichkorn. Floraison Magazine www.eichkorn-design.de 01 34
The moral obligation of green architecture, with Steven Kieran. When talking to Israeli architects about sustainable construction, they tend to nod their heads at the importance of the issue and then yawn in secret. The reason for this is clear, but quite frustrating. The obvious connection between environment and climate and architecture is still perceived by many professionals as a luxury, while the plethora of technologies designed to reduce the energy consumption and carbon emissions of buildings seem too complicated and expensive. Added to this are a number of \"green\" consultants who are imposing more and more restrictions on the planning and construction process. Last year, although the first (and non- binding) standard for green construction was introduced in Israel, in the meantime it is hardly noticeable in the field. Floraison Magazine 15
Μάρμαρο Once upon a time in Ancient Greece Marble has been used for construction, sculpture and more for thousands of years. Without it it is difficult to see ancient art existing, especially the ancient art of sculpture and construction. This is especially noticeable in light of its preservation in the earth as an archaeological find, for thousands of years, and indeed, marble was the main raw material for classical sculpture, in ancient Greece and in Roman times. It was used for the same purposes during the Renaissance, which revived the sculptural style and artistic principles of those ancient periods. Geologically, marble is a particularly hard and durable crystalline rock. Through the ages it has been used to build strong and stable temples and palaces, which had it not been for the deliberate collapse of conquerors and armies or earthquakes, they would surely still be in place. Until a few years ago when we would think of marble in 16 interior design, the associations that came up were the houses of pompous and nouveau riche oligarchs. Marble has re-established itself in consciousness as an elegant and coveted finishing material with diverse uses. This is no longer a passing trend, obviously the marble is here to stay. Floraison Magazine
ARABIC FINESSE ﺑﺮاﻋﺔ In Egypt, with the arid climate and the predominantly desert landscape, wood has always been a scarce resource. Palm trees abound, but historically they were used for making wine. Even then, the country still had to import from elsewhere, because noble species did not grow on its soil. To compensate, the Egyptians inlaid the furniture with ivory, glass paste and they plated it with gold and silver leaf. Egyptian themes favoured floral or animal motifs for decoration: hunting scenes, the lotus leaf, the papyrus and birds such as the hawk, the vulture and the falcon. On the legs of tables and chairs, the Egyptians liked to carve lion's feet. For them, the lion was the symbol of strength, courage and domination. Studio Piet Boon 17 Floraison Magazine
When we sit among the chaos, we can tune into inner silence... if we choose to. Floraison Magazine 18
from tel aviv to the dunes of cairo The GSH program offers an There has been a definite surge of opportunity for hotels operating in hotel brands leaning into towards the Egypt to be internationally notion of sustainability. We have recognized for raising their already discussed the collaboration of environmental performance and social Beyond Green and Preferred Hotels. standards while reducing their Now, each country is seeking to hold operational costs. Sultan Bey Hotel is their own awards and accolades to one of these hotels. Situated in El ensure that more and more hotels Gouna, these sandy dunes on the Red work towards sustainable futures. Sea, are teeming with adventurous coves and lagoons. A taste of Egypt's finest stretches of coastline. egyptian luxury awaits Sultan Bey offers a way to get lost in a on top of rich stone palatial buildings. labyrinth of courtyards and alleyways An honour it would seem, to appreciate as you navigate to the crystal waters this in all its magnificence, with the of the Red Sea. If you envision pride of knowing its sustainability yourself wandering through ancient movement. Tempt every sense from rich walkways, you will find this a reality culinary treats, to the incredible here. Smell the troposphere: warm hospitality. A stone throw away is the spicy tones penetrate the air; the salty area of El Gouna, a place where sea enveloping your senses. The hotel adventurers can lose themselves in a has traditional Egyptian architecture. range of activities, including Half domes sit proudly snorkelling and wind surfing. Floraison Magazine 19
Photos: Kreoo Photos: El Gouna Hotels Immerse yourself in a world of possibilities, tasting the magic of Egyptian culture, and whilst we are wandering the streets of Egypt, it is certainly time to learn more about the delights of Egyptian cotton Floraison Magazine 20
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Quilts for the fairies www.bettercotton.org When we speak about the softness of Egyptian cotton, we have a tendency to equate it to refined luxury in the form of our softest towels. Egyptian cotton has been grown in the fields for thousands of years. It translates into a soft yet durable material. What is known further about organic Egyptian cotton is that is in fact bio-degradable. Local textile suppliers provide ethical work whilst maintaining good working conditions for those supplying it. With Better Cotton, the reality of a sustainable future is emerging. Egypt officially became a new BCI Programme country in May 2020 as part of a renewed drive in the country to increase sustainability and improve conditions for Egyptian cotton farmers. Egyptian cotton is 100% vegan, it remains a popular and unbeatable choice in terms of textiles across the whole world. The continuation of this project helps farms to strive have all cotton grown on fields where the soil is free of all artificial pesticides or insecticides Floraison Magazine 22
Studio Piet Boon 23 Floraison Magazine
Chairs featured Piet Boon PIET BOON The Dutch designer has constantly renewed his catalog with furniture that has remained well balanced in form, function and individuality. Studio Piet Boon has been a huge name in architecture, interior and product design since 1983 and has since grown into a respected brand recognized for impeccable quality craftsmanship. Innovation and preservation are the endeavours of his masterful work. From Townhouse New York, to Oak Valley Residential Resort South Korea and Luxury Family Villa in the Netherlands, the perpetual characteristics of Studio Piet Boon are highlighted in every single design. Multidisciplinary designs bring optimum delacy, from modern minimal design to subtle yet salient shapes and curves. Floraison Magazine 24
INDIVIDUALITY DIVINITY when culture meets art Functionality and individuality form the unique Piet Boon The colour of each room is played against dusky monochromes; a experience. Reflected in every designed space, you can see raw little burnt orange in the living room and art frames seamlessly elements are constituted into luxurious culminations. We highlight divert your attention. Simplicity continues outdoors; with modern Townhouse New York and Oak Valley Residential Resort. landscaping, and a rectangular pool; which merges contemporary shapes with traditional Korean composition. Oak Valley Residential ResortSitting within the depths of the pristine forests in the Gangwon Province, lies this rapturous home “When choosing the materials we ensured there was a balance at Oak Valley - a prestigious private golf course community in South with the tranquil color scheme. We called the routing the ‘flow of Korea. Modular luxury designer homes were impeccably crafted by the river’. It begins at the entrance to the house as a small Piet Boon; and elements of geometric design, offer a simple yet slick mountain stream.” Piet Boon explains. He has seemingly crafted aesthetic. The high ceiling reaches unparalleled heights, with a large architectural design that feels as lightweight as the abundance of window to command light and air. Simple yet chic, every crevasse is air around it. adorned with the outdoors in mind. All functional spaces give birth to the outdoors; with stunning views of the garden. Modern day Piet Boon undoubtedly creates magic time after time; with culture has forged a functional space at Oak Valley; with natural balanced and beguiling projects that continue tantalise the elements such as bamboo and soft sustainable fabrics to offer a temptations of any real estate owner. Dutch culture remains at the renewable design. heart of all designs, which we will continue to see in Piet Boon’s future projects. Floraison 25
Townhouse New York Every element of light wraps seductively around the curves, creating soft tones and filtering through the pieces. The end result Piet Boon’s “Dutch Design” finally carved its way into the concrete is a sensual finish made to seduce the senses and offer the ultimate jungle of New York City. Townhouse New York is the delectable luxury. Symmetry is prevalent within Dutch design; it breathes an design that infuses smooth lines and curves, with an enrichment of element of order to each room, whilst upholding diversity. fine, delicate colours and voluminous layers inside this $18 million Natural raw woods and leathers add textures that feel homely and penthouse apartment. The residential project gives birth to a total warm. concept apartment, in which Piet Boon created a delicate balance of concave and convex shapes and defined contours. \"This is really There is no stopping modern design in 2021. A new era is assisting Dutch design, with clean lines and lots of symmetry,\" Boon said. in pushing the boundaries of modern design, decadent aesthetics Monochrome matte colors were used to highlight sculptural and charming allure that keeps us constantly striving for more. qualities, offering minimalistic yet European inveiglement. Piet Boon can be found online here. Engraved coving adds layers of depth to milky cream walls.The dark steel framed windows preserve traditional New York allure, whilst offering a plethora of light to the once somber spaces. MONOCHROMATIC DECADENCE Floraison Magazine 26
Architects such as Louis Kahn, Renzo Pinot, Thomas Rao, and Stephen Hall combine elements of quality design, building details and overall thinking about sustainable futures. Tel Aviv, a city rich in culture. Tel Aviv. Photo: Nicole Baster 27 Floraison Magazine
Tel Aviv. Photo: Nicole Baster Carve a sandy mural from Tel Aviv sand, Floraison Magazine Enveloping architecture, they'll take you by the hand Soar to heights never reached before, Striving for divinity, each style we adore. A composition of roughly-hewn blocks of stone, Their culture engrained in all they have shown. 28
BRUTALIST RESURGENCE travel back to 1950 with us... Brutalist architecture, or brutalist construction, are the names of Many in the public are put off by the appearance of the brutalist a modernist architectural style in which bare concrete is built. structures, which in their opinion seem to have a somewhat Brutalism was fashionable in Europe in the \"lean\" years after menacing appearance. They may be heavy, authoritative and World War II, especially between the 1950s and 1980s. Brutalism serious, but brutalist structures have a different aesthetic than suited the period well. This was a cheaper construction, partly other structures. Along with leaving the concrete exposed, the because they left the concrete in it bare and did not cover it with planners used to create interesting and modern textures, of any cladding. concrete castings and bare infrastructure of pipes, decorated connections and support beams. The decorative and almost The name of the style was coined by the French architect La sculptural aesthetic created on the surfaces of the walls and in the Corbusier, who promoted the style and made it accepted in world general structure, contained geometric and creative shapes, very architecture at the time. He called it \"béton brut\", meaning raw or unique to brutalism and very impressive. It is important to coarse concrete. The \"living unit\" designed by the renowned remember, however, that not every cheap and rough concrete architect in the city of Marseille was the inspiration or even the structure is brutalist. first brutalist structure. The concrete replaced the steel, which was very expensive and in short supply, after World War II, as a The brutalism movement in architecture has built many buildings skeleton for large structures. in this style, including the Barbican Center and the Trelick Tower in London and quite a few buildings in the Israeli city of Beersheba. Floraison Magazine 29
“Brutalist architecture was Modernism's angry underside, and was never, much as some would rather it were, a mere aesthetic style.\" Owen Hatherley Floraison Magazine 30
what is a slab of concrete worth? Historically, concrete was possible even Even then, water-bearing concrete in the days of the Roman Empire to known as aqueducts, bridges, moorings, build large cities. Even when it was ports and bathhouses was built. developed, in Roman times, it was used for the construction of temples and huge In 1756 modern concrete was invented, a luxury buildings. Some of them have mixture of cement, pebbles and survived to the present day, the best crumbled bricks. The inventor was a known of which are the Roman British engineer named John Smeaton. Pantheon, the largest dome structure in This improvement has over time led to the world, and the Colosseum - the the ability to build high-rise buildings, largest building built by the Romans giant towers and skyscrapers at insane with concrete. heights. recycling powers concrete Nowadays, the use of recycled materials, Concrete is one of the world's most such as ash crushed from the by-products coveted materials; its durability and its of coal-fired power plants, has been pure strength. The companies that are added to concrete. This is how they dig delving deeper into the sustainable aspect less, on the one hand and save on of architecture are those that are seeing unnecessary waste areas on the other. the benefits of a major shift in consumption and use of the product and leading us towards future success. Floraison Magazine 31
www.cemex.co.uk Floraison Magazine 32
SANCTIFIED NATURE “That allure of safari started in East Africa, and our plans this year are to expand our offering in Kenya, but to do it with an eye to that original East African safari with a greatly improved standard. I’ve always felt that our guests want to come to Africa to see wildlife, and experience that spirit of the continent- to be seduced by its romance and warmth of our communities. Guests stay with us to have their hearts, and their minds stimulated. At Great Plains, they come to step into a movie script where everything is perfect, stylish and breath-taking. Our new camps will encapsulate that period and yet encourage living in the moment and being present. I know you will fall in love here. I do each time,” said Dereck Joubert, CEO of Great Plains. Mara Plains Camp is located upriver from little sister Mara Toto Camp. Eastern African charm meets chic interiors. A private oasis of affluent design within luscious African landscape. Studio Piet Boon 33 Floraison Magazine
Mara Toto Camp 34 www.greatplainsconservation.com Floraison
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Polished brass beholds majestic prowess Immersive experiences are undoubtedly ones that most of us remember for a lifetime. At Great Plains Kenya, you can also delve deeper into the way they power their buildings. Solar-power is what keeps this hotel ticking. They have also implemented the \"Replacement of Shade Programme\" which is a sustainable travel initiative that aims to restore indigenous trees. Kenyan Brass interiors offer a sustainable yet regal decor, with affluent wooden floors, and tinges of terracotta hues add to the magic of this incredible resort. Spot the wildlife of the surrounding area and immerse yourself in this special part of the Kenyan landscape. Floraison 36
Photos: Davani DAVANI Words: Jan MacLatchie DAVANI Debuts the World’s First Extendable Natural Stone Table Innovative Travertine PURITY Table When you think of a dining table, especially one that expands for those larger, special-occasion meals, you probably don’t think of stone as the material. But maybe you should. Anthony Davani, Co-Founder and Creative Director of DAVANI,has created the world’s first extendable natural stone table, called PURITY. Until now, Mr. Davani’s company has been a closely held secret among a small, elite and exacting group of design professionals who turn to him for bespoke luxury dimensional stone for high end residential and hospitality design globally. His made-to-order furnishings brand DAVANI, makes the nearly impossible feats of engineering in stone and other rare exotic natural materials available on a to-order basis with regular releases of capsule collections that are a collaboration between Mr. Davani and top designers. Floraison Magazine 37
Davani 38 Floraison Magazine
PURITY by DAVANI was a collaboration with The anchor point of DAVANI + PURITY, the Purity Milan-based architectural designer Melanie Murata. Dining Table, is the world’s first and only pure The dining table, in either of two tones of natural stone extendable table with a drop-in leaf that fits travertine or a choice of six other classic marble into a concealed storage compartment right inside options, anchor a collection that includes a console, the table. Says Davani, “Our engineers have made cocktail and end tables as well as a conference table. the Purity dining table effortlessly extendable for conversion as quickly and easily as traditional wood According to Mr. Davani, the new DAVANI brand dining tables.” The sleek expanse of its stone surface came from a desire to work in new ways with the appears to float lightly over a sculptural base, the great design visionaries, those who normally might whole inspired by the ripples of water and the come to him with an impossible request such as a natural imperfections that are created by nature cantilevered reception desk for a five star hotel or a when water meets stone. set of Corinthian columns for a notable historic restoration. Now he will collaborate with those same It is made to appear more weightless still by gentle top specifiers to design collections with the Davani underlighting at the floor. The unparalleled imprimatur. PURITY is the first, with new integrity of the stone makes this table both pure in collections coming in 2021 with multidisciplinary form and enduring in function and beauty. Says masters INC Architecture and Design and Annysa Davani, “It is a table meant for gathering, for LaMantia. It will expand access to our stone art, but conversation. Its striking beauty and organic very gently,” he jokes, “from the one-of-a-kind to elegance is meant to awaken the senses, to aid in made-to-order.” Each collection will come from a becoming fully present both to others and to one’s different visionary designer with overall creative self.” direction by Davani himself. 39 Studio Piet Boon Floraison Magazine
about the material Although the table can be made in any of 8 total transformed by a pandemic, meaningful materiality stone choices, Davani chose to focus on travertine will meet a search for sanctuary. Davani says, “It’s because it is a classic material whose time has come logical that there will be a newfound appreciation of again. “The infinite connection of stone to water is travertine, which since antiquity is thought to have expressed in the very veins of this material,” he properties related to promoting a flow of universal explains. ”As designers turn increasingly to biophilia life-force. It’s used in meditation to open the doors to create soothing spaces, travertine is destined for to inner thought. Due to travertine’s prehistoric its 21st century renaissance.” Indeed, trend watchers connection to healing waters and hot springs, it’s concur that in a world also thought to have properties related to cellular DAVANI Introduces First Extendable Stone Table regeneration and restoring the body in times of 2-2-2 depletion.” about the designers Davani also offers versatility and utility, with Her tenure with Gensler in California and training options for wireless, lay-down device charging built under Italian Master Piero Lissoni in Milan have into the stone surface, pop-up USB ports, or satin enabled her to build a body of work that is nuanced, brass or bronze inlay to enhance the carved reeding poetic and atmospherically unique. Her aesthetic, in the base. It may be used in interior or exterior like that of Mr. Davani, springs from the bespoke, applications. and pulls closest to unique designs that afford a sense of discovery, excitement and exclusivity. DAVANI + PURITY was designed by Melanie Murata with creative direction by Anthony Davani. Says Mr. Davani, “Because she’s based in Milan, Ms. Murata has spent the last decade creating Melanie is immersed in a special kind of creative immersive architectural environments and furniture energy where designers are constantly pushing new, for a wide range of luxury clients, developers, and interesting work forward. We're so pleased the Pure brands around the world. tables are a part of it.” Watch to uncover the majestic versatility of this table 40 Shteured. i o P i e t B o o n Floraison Magazine
Hilton, Seychelles 41 Floraison
The peace of our souls are defined and shaped by our surroundings. To immerse yourself in 42 the most abundant nature, offers an unparalleled sanctuary. Are you ready to find your sanctuary in The Maldives? Floraison Magazine
SUSTAINABLE PARADISE inhale the salty aroma \"Hilton Seychelles Northolme Resort & Spa is promising to lead Coral Reef Restoration the way on the Seychelles’ main island, Mahé, with its ever- expanding eco-initiatives and efforts, which are part of its Hilton Seychelles Northolme Resort & Spa is proud of its ongoing Sustainability Management Plan.\" efforts to help restore and protect the surrounding coral reef. It has been launched in partnership with the Marine Conservation Experience the rich paradise, merging nature with luxury in this Seychelles Society. A magical arena of emerald nature and balmy promising location. The Maldives is synonymous with luxury air envelop the senses. Hilton hotels have long been a world holidays, yet it now claims a new title: sustainably luxurious. With favourite; their principles and hotels have only grown in beauty brand new initiatives The Hilton Seychelles offers locally sourced and taste. Now they are leading the way in sustainable luxury. rich and organic foods in their restaurant WAVE. A concept that provides guests with honest tastes of the area that offer a cultural Helping the world perception for each diner. By using environmentally friendly menus, carbon emissions are cut drastically. We can finally learn Solar panels are used to help generate energy for hot water. They to appreciate the beauty of sustainable living through the also source their own water from Mount Dauban, which leads to delectable dishes plated up for us. A setting that will tempt all greater sea protection - more than 5000 plastic bottles are saved. five senses. Imagine yourself soaking up the salty aroma of the Recycling provides hidden benefits that become apparent as we ocean around. There is something energetic that awakens all see flourishing wildlife and nature growing in its rightful spot. aspects of the body and spirit. www.seychelles.hilton.com Floraison Magazine 43
Floraison Magazine 44
CRISP CARDBOARD Can you imagine the most exquisite design forged to perfection by a material as crunchy and enduring as cardboard? We have a rendezvouz with Noelle Rigaudie, to rummage through the creative mindset of this impeccable designer. To see through the eyes of a forward-thinking designer who, in all her reverence is bringing the simplist of materials into luxurious fruition. In all her Australian charm, let's step into a state of play... “Cardboard being resistant, yet light, flexible and easy to handle material allows for great manupilation of its function.” Studio Piet Boon 45 Floraison Magazine
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