December-January 2019

DEC 18 - JAN 19

READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS Win a trip to Fiji or Vietnam!

Interiors Abed that’s just right for you Plus plenty of bling for you and your home

Schools T e best of the best

All I want for Christmas is GREAT TEETH!

Festive Food

Italian Eats DiningD é cor

EDITOR’SNOTE

There’s something about Hong Kong that makes you feel anything is possible. I’ve never quite been able to put a finger on what it is that creates that sense for me – is it the relentless energy of the city or the critical mass of talented and motivated people? Is it down to more prosaic reasons such as geography and finance? Whatever the “X factor” is, it’s a place that seems to allow people so many opportunities, and to turn an idea into a thriving business. In the time I’ve lived in Hong Kong, I have been consistently excited and inspired by hearing stories from entrepreneurs, which was why it was fascinating to be able to interview Sandeep Sekhri for this edition. The founder and chief executive of restaurant group Dining Concepts is a great example of what one person can achieve in this city. Sandeep arrived here at the age of 24 and through hard work, determination and a series of canny decisions he now presides over an empire of some 30 restaurants and bars. To say he has defined Hong Kong’s dining scene is no exaggeration and it was exciting to hear how he made it happen – and to think about what he might do next! Turn to page 96 for the story. On the subject of entrepreneurs, we also sneak a peek into the lovely home of Lion Rock Press founder Claire Yates. Claire’s stylish stationery is a go-to for people wanting something quintessentially Hong Kong, and it’s no surprise her Pok Fu Lam apartment is equally elegant and eclectic (page 22). Meanwhile, it’s that time of year to get together with family and friends. We’ve rounded up a few ideas if you are wanting to celebrate the festive season with a Christmas dinner or a New Year knees-up. We also have suggestions of places to source turkey

Stay updated online

NEWS – WHAT’S GOING ON? Read the latest Hong Kong happenings EVENTS CALENDAR – POST YOUR EVENT FOR FREE! Having a party or a promotional launch and want to get the word out about it on our website? Just head to www.expatliving.hk , click on “Post an event”, and fill in the details. We’ll do the rest! WHERE TO BUY A list of retail outlets where you can buy the latest copy of Expat Living

and trimmings if you want to do something more traditional at home. You’ll find it on page 92. Finally, if you need some ideas for presents, we’ve got you covered with our gift guides on page 43.

MELISSA STEVENS

Happy Holidays!

facebook.com/expatlivingHK

twitter.com/expatlivingHK

pinterest.com/expatlivingHK instagram.com/expatlivingHK

2

DEC 18-JAN 19

Editor-in-Chief REBECCA BISSET Group Editor SHAMUS SILLAR Editor MELISSA STEVENS Client Services & Production LEANDA RATHMELL | LIANA TALIB NUR HANANI KAMAL LUDDIN Senior Graphic Designers MICHAEL BERNABE BEATRICE NG | JEANNE WONG Circulation & Marketing ANNA TSERLINGAS GRACE BANTARAN | VEENA GILL Sales & Marketing KATE WOODBURY | DANIELLE HIGGINS Chief Operations Officer COLIN PURCHASE Contributing Writers ORLA BREEZE | ROXANNE DOWELL KATE FARR | AOIFE MACKENZIE CATHARINE NICOL | MONICA PITRELLI LARA SAGE | KELLI SHOEMAKER | REBECCA SIMPSON Printed by MIRACLE PRINTING CO. LTD.

CONTACT US General Enquiries: +852 3480 7614 | +65 6259 0058 | info@expatliving.hk Advertising Sales: advertising@expatliving.hk | sales@expatliving.hk

Subscription: +65 6812 1783 | subscription@expatliving.hk Production: +65 6812 1787 | production@expatliving.sg Editorial & Media Releases: editor@expatliving.hk Calendar of Events: calendar@expatliving.hk Events: info@expatliving.hk Websites: expatliving.hk | expatliving.sg Printed by Miracle Printing Co. Ltd. Published by Expat Living Publications Pte Ltd 37 Jalan Pemimpin, #07-06 Mapex Building, Singapore 577177

Cover: Altfield (altfield.com.hk)

4

DEC 18-JAN 19

CONTENTS

20

UPFRONT 10 Calendar of Upcoming Events 12 Follow Us Online 14 Readers’ Choice Awards: Amazing prizes up for grabs! HOME & PROPERTY 18 News 20 Sleep Secrets: How choosing the right mattress is key 22 * Showcase: Check out this Pok Fu Lam apartment 28 Finishing Touches: Upholstery and trimmings to bring it all together 30 Buying Guide: Dining tables for every space 32 On the Market: Properties for sale and lease LIFE & FAMILY 38 News 39 Sustainable Shopping: Eco-conscious vendors at Prestige Fairs 40 On the Page: We preview the latest great reads 41 Rated PG: Our regular parenting column 43 ’Tis the Season: Christmas gift ideas for all 52 Business Profile: The duo behind jewellery brand One Bond Street 55 Horsing Around: The Longines Masters is in town! 57 Money Matters: How much do you need for retirement?

Buy yourself a fabulous new bed for the new year!

43

Great gifts for him, her and the home

59 School Report: Thirteen pages of education updates from Hong Kong’s best international schools, colleges and tutors, touching on everything from future learning and scholarship opportunities, to staying cyber safe and using nature as a classroom.

76

Showcase Features: Each issue, our home showcase features provide a through-the-keyhole look into some of our readers’ lifestyles and their interior design decisions. If you’d like us to profile your own home – whether it’s beautiful, quirky, historic or modern – and you’re willing to be interviewed and photographed, drop us a line at info@expatliving.hk.

6

DEC 18-JAN 19

CONTENTS

BODY & MIND 76 News 77 Men’s Fashion: Swish sweaters for Christmas 78 Perfect Peepers: How to tackle ageing eyes 79 Tried & Tested: We put two salons to the test 80 Expert Voice:

A cardiologist on listening to your heart

82 Mindful Eating:

Keeping in check this festive season

84 Teen Health:

The impact of social media

86 Balancing Act:

Day in the life of an orthodontist

WINE & DINE 90 News 92 Festive Feasting: Top spots to celebrate 96 Success Story: Meet the founder of Dining Concepts 98 Italian Eats:

Where to go for pizza and pasta perfection

100 Recipe Corner:

Fail-safe favourites for your repertoire

Simply delizioso! 98

119

TRAVEL 104 News 106 Must-do Experiences: Ten awesome ideas and itineraries from around the globe 108 Sri Lanka Sojourn: A family trip with a luxury touch 114 New Year, New You: Five energising trips for 2019 119 Art of Hospitality: A pair of stunning hotels outside Cape Town

Room with a view in South Africa

REGULARS 122 Important Numbers 123 Our Advertisers 124 Parting Shot: Frequent Flyer

8

DEC 18-JAN 19

THISMONTH

CHRISTMAS

SHOPPING Glam and Glitters Christmas Gift Fair (1 DEC) This fair will see more than 20 pop-up retailers, entrepreneurs and artisans at the Hong Kong Football Club in Happy Valley offering fantastic gifts and goodies. Expect fabulous jewellery, lifestyle brands, fashion, children’s apparel and much more. The shopping event is open to members and their guests, or by RSVP only. If you aren’t a member or member’s guest, RSVP to info@shoppinghongkong.net. shoppinghongkong.net Prestige Fairs Christmas Gift Festival (11 DEC) This is a great way to make a dent on your Christmas shopping. Expect stands showcasing clothing, jewellery, children’s toys, food, Hong Kong-themed gifts and more. Products are bespoke, artisanal and carefully curated to offer shoppers the opportunity to find something unique and original. Conrad Hong Kong, Grand Ballroom, Pacific Place, 88 Queensway, Admiralty. prestigefairs.hk Discovery Bay Sunday Market (9 DEC) Don’t miss the Christmas edition of the Discovery Bay Sunday Market, a DIY Indie Arts, Crafts and Small Traders’ Fair. Hong Kong’s finest makers and sellers will be offering arts, crafts and other special goods. Make a day trip to DB on the ferry with the market located in the DB main plaza, just a short walk from the ferry pier. If you stay for dinner at one of Discovery Bay’s D’Deck restaurants, you’ll get a free ferry ride back to Central. handmadehongkong.com Renowned trumpet soloist Tine Thing Helseth will perform a number of works, including Hummel’s Trumpet Concerto , and popular tunes such as “Blue Danube” and “Radetzky March”, to ring out the old year. Hong Kong Cultural Centre Concert Hall, 10 Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui. hkphil.org ages three and above. Hong Kong Cultural Centre Concert Hall, 10 Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui. hkphil.org A Viennese New Year (30-31 DEC)

Hong Kong Winterfest (29 NOV –1 JAN)

Winterfest is the series of events that mark the festive season in Hong Kong. A centrepiece is the massive Christmas Tree at Statute Square, where you can meet Father Christmas and hear carols. There will also be winter editions of the Hong Kong Pulse Light Show and Symphony of Lights, and fireworks for New Year’s Eve. The tree is at North Statue Square, Central (adjacent to Mandarin Oriental). discoverhongkong.com The Hong Kong Players have been staging an annual Christmas pantomime for more than half a century. The great family event this year features the story of Snow White and the dwarves, along with a dance-crazy prince and all the other characters from the famous fairy tale. Shouson Theatre, Hong Kong Arts Centre, 2 Harbour Road, Wan Chai. hongkongplayers.com The Nutcracker (14-26 DEC) A Hong Kong holiday tradition, experience Tchaikovsky’s much-loved music with live accompaniment from the Hong Kong Sinfonietta. The classic Christmas ballet tells the tale of Clara, Fritz and Nutcracker as they battle the evil Rat King, choreographed by Australian choreographer Terence Kohler. Grand Theatre, Hong Kong Cultural Centre, 10 Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui. hkballet.com A Harry Little Christmas (23–24 DEC) Entertainer Harry Wong joins forces with conductor Lio Kuok-man to lead the HK Phil Chorus in a singalong of Christmas favourites. Family fun for Snow White – The Panto (30 NOV – 2 DEC & 6-9 DEC)

Hong Kong Winterfest

10

DEC 18-JAN 19

CALENDAR

Mamma Mia! (16-27 JAN) This smash-hit musical is coming back to Hong Kong. Mamma Mia! tells the tale of a daughter’s quest to discover her father’s identity on a Greek Island, told through the classic ABBA hits, such as “Super Trooper”, “Waterloo” and “Ring Ring”. Lyric Theatre, Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts. lunchbox-productions.com Mickey’s Super Celebration (24-27 JAN) Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck and Goofy join Mickey on a journey to discover his favourite memory of all time, in a show commemorating 90 years of Mickey Mouse. This show will feature Moana live on ice for the first time in Asia, along with Frozen sisters Anna and Elsa. disneyonice.com.hk

Mamma Mia!

ARTS & SHOWS

AIA The Great European Carnival (MID-DEC – 17 FEB)

The outdoor carnival has become a fixture on the Central Harbourfront each winter, with young and old flocking to enjoy the atmosphere. Organisers are upping the ante this season, with new rides and attractions to suit all ages. Central Harbourfront Event Space. tgec.asia/carnival KidsFest (9 JAN – 14 FEB) This annual festival provides world-class theatre to young people in Hong Kong over five weeks. This year’s programme includes the crowd-pleasing We’re Going On A Bear Hunt , the Judith Kerr classic, The Tiger Who Came To Tea , and acrobatic comedy Children Are Stinky . kidsfest.com.hk

Hong Kong Corporate Sevens

SPORT Hong Kong Corporate Sevens (9 DEC)

The Hong Kong Corporate Sevens at So Kon Po is a day of fun and fundraising that sees men’s and mixed teams compete in a non-contact tag version of rugby, Tag 7s. The carnival has a family-friendly atmosphere with a kids’ zone, balloon station, bouncy castle and face painting. There will also be food and entertainment. So Kon Po Recreation Ground, Causeway Bay. corporate7s.com.hk Hong Kong 100 Ultra Trail Race (19 JAN) This ultra-endurance event sees participants attempt to complete a 100km course within 30 hours. The course covers some of the most beautiful scenery in Hong Kong and is based on the Maclehose Trail. It’s a unique, challenging and beautiful run for the trail- running enthusiast. hk100-ultra.com

Mickey’s Super Celebration

11 DEC 18-JAN 19

expatliving.hk

Get more updates and helpful content from Hong Kong’s ultimate lifestyle guide.

Online now... Check out our travel tips and discover some cool destinations to add to your bucket list.

Follow us on social media!

facebook.com/expatlivingHK

twitter.com/expatlivingHK

pinterest.com/expatlivingHK instagram.com/expatlivingHK

Dec2018—Jan2019 Issue44

DEC18- JAN19

SAVE 35% ON A YEAR’S SUBSCRIPTION! For only HK$188 (usually $288) you’ll get: • Six bi-monthly issues delivered right to your door • Free access to the digital edition worth $230

Interiors Abedthat’s just rightforyou Plusplentyof blingforyou andyourhome

READERS’ CHOICEAWARDS Wina trip toFiji orVietnam!

SCHOOLS •DININGTABLES • ITALIANCUISINE

Schools T ebestof thebest

All Iwantfor Christmas isGREAT TEETH!

Festive Food

Italian Eats DiningDécor

H

To subscribe, simply visit expatliving.hk/print

12

DEC 18-JAN 19

Sharing handy tips on places to visit and things to do

Discovering some unique spots for relaxing with a drink

Inspiring you with home décor ideas and the latest trends

Follow us @expatlivinghk for all our behind-the-scenes antics!

Get your copy of our latest City Guide!

Looking to make the most out of living in Hong Kong or know someone new in town who needs a helping hand? Our CityGuide offers handy tips and advice on neighbourhoods, schools, health, dining, transport and a whole lot more...

To get your FREE copy, visit our website below

SETTING UP • DÉCOR • THINGS TO DO • SCHOOLS • HEALTHCARE • DINING

expatliving.hk/CityGuide2018

13 DEC 18-JAN 19

Our annual Readers’ Choice Awards are back! Once again, we’d like your vote on businesses that you would recommend to others. It’s what we’ve always been about at Expat Living and your contribution will help reward the people who are doing a fantastic job, as well as spread the word about them – and you’ll be rewarded too. Win-win!

VOTEANDYOUCOULDWINONEOF THESE THREE FABULOUS PRIZES!*

Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort, Fiji

GRAND PRIZE!

Five-night stay for a family of four in a stunning Oceanfront bure at the Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort Fiji including daily meals and five off-site excursions!

*Prizes are subject to sponsors’ own stipulated terms and conditions, which can be found at expatliving.hk/readerschoice

Closing Date: 31 January 2019!

Sheraton Grand Danang Resort

Runner-up Prizes!

Two-night stay for two adults in a beautiful deluxe suite at the Sheraton Grand Danang Resort in Vietnam, including two rounds of golf at BRG Danang Golf Course!

GREEN, Hotel ICON

Weekend brunch for a family of four at GREEN in Hotel ICON . Enjoy scrumptious appetiser selections and an array of international main course dishes. Vote now at expatliving.hk/readerschoice

HOME&PROPERTY

18 New & Notable: What’s trending in furniture and accessories

DSL Furniture

20 Sleep Secrets: How the right mattress can make the difference

22 Rooms with a View: We take a look inside a Pok Fu Lam pad

30 Dining Décor: Stylish tables and accessories for mealtimes

HOME & PROPERTY

WHAT’S NEW

BESPOKE BEAUTY

Fabulous Fragrances Italian design factory Alessi has debuted its first range of home fragrances, The Five Seasons, in collaboration with designer Marcel Wanders. The range features a choice of accessories, including scented candles, room sprays, leaf fragrance diffusers, droppers, a candle holder and a candle snuffer. Four fragrances correspond to the seasons of the year, while the fifth corresponds to a theme of “transcendence”. Products are stocked at Town House K11 in Kowloon and Wing On Sheung Wan, as well as Alessi stores in Landmark Prince’s and Causeway Bay. alessi.com/us_en

If you’ve been looking for furniture to fit your home, DSL’s custom furniture service could be the solution. Each piece is made to order following your specific design, size and material requirements, so you can create a one- of-a-kind piece of furniture that perfectly suits the dimensions of your space. DSL also offers a bespoke artwork service if you want to commission something specific. 8191 3885 | dslfurniture.com

Fancy Floors

Clever Cup Want to keep your cup of coffee or tea at the perfect temperature? The Ember Ceramic Mug is the world’s first temperature- controlled mug.

Made of durable stainless steel with a US FDA-certified reinforced ceramic coating, it has a minimalist design and is easy to use. It’s embedded with multiple temperature sensors and a microprocessor-controlled, dual-band heating system. It can be kept at a set temperature for up to an hour, or all day when paired with its matching charging coaster. Available in Apple Stores. ember.com

Keen to make a style statement in your home? The new limited-edition Canvas Art range of rugs at CarpetBuyer is so popular there’s been a two-month waiting list. Made with wool and bamboo silk, the carpets are soft to touch and come in a white/cream background with charcoal black/beige and greys, making it easy to match them to any existing décor. They come in a variety of sizes, too. Unit 2604-07, 26/F, 2 Lee Wing Street Ap Lei Chau. 2850 5508 | carpetbuyer.com

18

DEC 18-JAN 19

HOME & PROPERTY

How choosing the ideal mattress can lead to superior slumber. BY CATHARINE NICOL

Sleep is central to our physical and mental health, yet it often proves elusive. Ensuring your bedroom is a haven of peace, comfort and health is a good start, but did you know that choosing and investing in the right mattress to suit your preferences and needs can be essential in assuring a quality night’s sleep? The firmer the better is a myth Everybody needs a comfortable and supportive mattress to be able to sleep well and wake up refreshed, says THIJS VEYFEYKEN of Okooko by European Bedding . “The most important thing is to choose a mattress that contours to your body while providing support,” he says. “Too firm and you may wake up to painful pressure points; too soft and your body will sag,” Thijs advises going for the especially comfortable organic latex mattresses. Natural latex offers the highest levels of contouring and support and ensures the spine will be naturally aligned so that the body can relax fully. Furthermore, natural organic latex is breathable, anti-mould and dust-mite resistant, without any added chemicals, making it suitable for humid Hong Kong weather. Change is good Mattresses don’t last forever. Check your mattress once it hits a decade of supporting you through sleep. Spring mattresses usually need replacing sooner, while latex ones last as long as 15 to 20 years. As you get older, you may also find your preferences change. Thijs notices young adults often prefer plush mattresses, while older people move to firmer support. He likes firm, she likes soft Couples need to consider the other person in a relationship in order to ensure the best night’s sleep; and, although genders aren’t necessarily density predictable, Okooko by European Bedding has the perfect solution with their “his and hers” densities. “We can customise our king-size latex mattresses to have ‘her side’ and ‘his side’ enclosed in one mattress cover,” says Thijs. “We also suggest that heavier ‘back sleepers’ use a firmer mattress, and lighter ‘side sleepers’ a softer one.” What about the kids? Parents know it’s essential for everyone’s peace of mind that their kids get a good night’s sleep. It’s also vital for the overall wellness, learning and productivity of little ones. Okooko by European Bedding offers mattresses ideal for baby cots, bunk beds and trundle beds. Heveya natural organic latex is the healthiest choice, with durability and a removable cover

being key when you’ve got kids playing, jumping and spilling things on their beds. A worthwhile investment Whatever your age, a good-quality mattress can transform your bedroom from a battleground into a sanctuary, and it can pay back in boosting your health, mental wellbeing, productivity and overall happiness. In short, if you invest in a good night’s sleep, you can feel the effects paying back throughout your waking life.

Visit the showroom at 13/F, The Plaza LKF, 21 D’Aguilar Street, Central. 2870 1132 | europeanbedding.hk

20

DEC 18-JAN 19

Rooms with a view in Pok Fu Lam

We meet proud Hong Konger CLAIRE YATES, owner of stationery company The Lion Rock Press, to chat about her family, her home … and her very unusual pets.

BY KATE FARR PHOTOGRAPHY REBECCA BISSET

22

DEC 18-JAN 19

HOME & PROPERTY

Tell us a little about yourself and your family.

Tell us a little about your interior décor. I wanted to make the living area an adult space for my husband and me to enjoy, relax and entertain in, now that our children are a bit older and the years of living with plastic boxes of toys, playpens and jumperoos are finally behind us! To make that work, I needed to create gorgeous bedrooms that the children would be happy to stay and play in. Luckily, they absolutely love their rooms – so much so that I now have to go and visit them to see what they’re up to! We’ve mixed antique and custom-made modern Chinese furniture and art with more Western-style soft furnishings, so I would describe the overall style to be like me: Eurasian! What’s your favourite room? The living room. I chose a dark teal paint, as I wanted a really sumptuous jewel shade that was almost Chinese imperial in style. My husband nearly had a heart attack when he first saw it! Happily, he trusts my taste and now he loves it … though I’m always threatening to paint our bedroommagenta, which he’s unfortunately put his foot down about!

Our happy but chaotic household includes myself, my husband Andrew, our son Miller (6), daughter Leila Mei (3), and our adored helper Teresa. We also have several pets: colourful fish and snails, along with our treasured Madagascar hissing cockroaches, who have just become the proud parents of 60 baby roaches! Admittedly, they’re not everyone’s cup of tea, but we love them! The things I appreciate most are the safety, the convenience, and having help at home, which allows me to follow my career dreams alongside being a wife and mother. However, the greatest pleasure is the inspiration that I find here. I love the simple, everyday things – the sound of brushes sweeping, the smell of incense, the buzz of cicadas, the clacking of the mahjong tiles, the ding of the trams, the smell of the bakeries, the colours of the markets, the bustling streets, the busy harbour... for me, Hong Kong is paradise. Earlier this year, our elderly landlord died, so we moved from a ground-floor flat in Sai Ying Pun to this three-bedroom, 1,300-square-foot apartment in Pok Fu Lam. I was originally reluctant to move, as I loved living there and the convenience of my work, the kids’ schools and the local shopping and dining scene. But my husband was ready to try something different, so we decided to see if we could find a real sense of community for us and, more importantly, our children. The home we found has surpassed all my expectations, and we feel incredibly lucky every single day. We have stunning uninterrupted views over to Lantau, Cheung Chau, Lamma and Hei Ling Chau, and we’re blessed most evenings with a spectacular sunset as we watch the ships coming in to anchor at dusk – it’s magical. We never previously had a view and I secretly thought people were a bit daft to pay a premium for one, but now we have one, I could never go back. We’ve been completely spoilt. Being Eurasian, I’m always going to have family worried about feng shui , as our block flanks two public cemeteries. I find this beautiful, fascinating and peaceful… but I’m not sure my grandparents agree! What do you enjoy most about life in Hong Kong? How did you decide upon your current home?

Above: The sun starts setting over the view from Claire’s balcony Right: Claire chose a gorgeous dark teal for the feature wall

23 DEC 18-JAN 19

Where did you source your key furniture pieces? Before buying anything, I had a massive clear out and donated all the furniture from my old place to Nikki from DB Mothers and Friends – a social enterprise that redistributes your preloved items to people in need. After that, my first stop was Sofa Good Sofa, which is a custom furniture outlet near HKU MTR station. I was able to choose a completely custom L-shaped sofa and they also made my bespoke king-size bed with huge hydraulic storage. On a whim, I also ordered a mustard-coloured armchair and ottoman, just because I fell in love with them! One of the pieces we get the most compliments on is our multi-coloured wool living room rug. I bought it from Ikea eight years ago and it still looks brand new. Although it’s colourful, it seems to be quite neutral and always goes with our furnishings… and we aren’t too precious about the carnage that it’s subjected to! What’s your favourite furniture item? The first piece of furniture I ordered for this home is my favourite – my dream cabinet, custom-made from a sketch of mine, and born from a need to deal with my husband’s beloved 60-inch TV and all the paraphernalia that comes with it! I wanted to design something to display my treasured collection of Chinese relics, as well as provide much-needed storage. I knew I wanted it to be a modern Chinese design, and white, to contrast with the deep jewel colour of the wall, so I asked Asin at Yong Chang in Zhuhai to make it for me; I’m not sure I’ve ever been so in love with a piece of furniture before – it’s everything I hoped for. What other pieces do you particularly love? My dining table and chairs were also made from a sketch. It had long been a dream to have a round Chinese-style table with a “Lazy Susan” like the one in my grandmother’s home; however, I wanted a sleek, modern version in natural wood. I bought them, along with the cabinet, with money inherited from my grandmother, and I know she would have called them “most handsome” pieces. I love art, but I’m conscious not to overcrowd the apartment. The butterfly taxidermy by Rebecca Coles is actually made of currency from all over the world, cut into butterfly shapes and secured with a single pin for each. I love it because it’s quite neutral until you get close and then you can spend hours looking at it. I have a Yanko Tihov piece called British Empire , featuring vintage passports from all over the world. Everyone who visits loves it, and it’s always a great talking point. On the opposite wall are two vintage Chinese posters,

24

DEC 18-JAN 19

Left: The butterfly taxidermy

artwork near the window is one of Claire’s favourite pieces, and the dining table and TV console are her own design

25 DEC 18-JAN 19

Do you have any outdoor space? We are lucky enough to have a reasonable- sized balcony, with a big barbecue and, more recently, Teresa’s organic farm! She collects every single seed or stone we ever discard, from melon to tomato, bell pepper to cherry, as well as anything with a root on such as celery or spring onions, and plants them in soil to see what takes. I reckon soon enough we are going to be self-sustaining!

one of which reminds me of my mother when she was young. One of my most prized possessions is an Arthur Hacker pen and ink drawing that I acquired when I lived in South London. A gay Chinese couple had an acrimonious split and had my husband – then an estate agent – to just “get rid” of everything in their house as they didn’t want anything to remind them of each other! We were young and had no money so were ecstatic, as they had absolutely exquisite taste! Another prized possession is the panoramic shot of the Malvern Hills, where I was at boarding school; it’s shot by my brother, John, who is an incredible photographer. More recently, on a visit to Zhuhai, I came across a dusty old Ming Dynasty miniature fully set table, complete with wine flask and boar head. I can’t tell you what I paid for it as my husband might read this (and he thinks it’s the ugliest thing he’s ever seen!) but I just had to own it – I love thinking about what it has seen and who has touched it over the last 600 years, as well as getting a glimpse into what they might have eaten all that time ago.

26

DEC 18-JAN 19

HOME & PROPERTY

The Ginger Jar Lamp Co.

Some Lion Rock Press products, plus the cockroach house

Kids’ bedrooms, above and below ; one has a great view opposite, left

Recommendations

The Lion Rock Press thelionrockpress.com The Ginger Jar Lamp Co.

facebook.com/gingerjarlampco Yong Chang Furniture, Zhuhai antiqueyc.com.cn Sofa Good Sofa 5/F, Cheung Fat Building, 7-9 Hill Road, Sai Wan 3106 3651 | sofagoodsofa.com.hk Candy Bedding, Shenzhen candybedding.com Franc Franc francfranc.com.hk John Alexander Photography jeaphotography.com

Sum Ngai Brass Factory 195-B Kam Sheung Road, Kam Tin, New Territories sumngaibrass.com Yuet Tung China Works Unit 1-3, 3/F, Kowloon Bay Industrial Centre,

15 Wang Hoi Road, Kowloon Bay 2796 1125 | porcelainware.com.hk

27 DEC 18-JAN 19

Trimmings are a colourful way to zhoosh your interiors – and something we can all get creative with. for the Home Jewellery

BY CATHARINE NICOL

A new year is the perfect time to take a look at your home and think about making some changes. There’s no need to start from scratch though. Instead, take a leaf out of the books of professional interior designers: refresh your interiors with trimmings along the edges of upholstered furniture, or the borders of cushions and curtains. It’s a way to enhance the style and colours you have already, while keeping budget in mind. “Interior designers consider trimmings to be like jewellery,” says VICTORIA CHEUNG of Altfield Interiors . “They add a level of detailed finish and layering to design schemes to create additional interest. It’s something that we can all do, with a little thought and creativity.”

Victoria should know, as she has access to some of the most beautiful cords, fringes, edges and embroideries thanks to Samuel & Sons, an American family-owned company founded over 75 years ago, and one of the world’s most renowned makers of passementerie (trimmings). Back in 16th-century France, the art and craft of passementerie required a seven-year apprenticeship. Signalling social distinction, its trends ebbed and flowed through the classical Renaissance, to the bolder Empire and positively flamboyant Victorian eras. Today, while contemporary interior styles have often gone for clean lines, trimmings are well and truly back in vogue. When starting out, Victoria recommends neutral and subtle colours easy to blend into your existing interiors, focusing on cords

Shangri-La Collection

Shangri-La Collection

28

DEC 18-JAN 19

HOME & PROPERTY

Cirque Collection

and brush fringes for cushions, and contemporary borders for curtains and blinds. “Contemporary-style trimmings collections composed of geometrics and clean lines are in frequent demand to suit modern urban living in Hong Kong,” she says. When you get a little more adventurous, she advises moving up a gear. “I see high-performance trimmings to be increasingly popular, and products that combine fantastic design with easy maintenance.” It’s certainly worth considering maintenance, whether your trimmings will live indoors or out. “Indoor/outdoor products offer good durability, and are stain-, mildew- and UV-resistant, which also makes them suitable for homes with young children and pets,” she says. A few of Victoria’s favourite trimmings include the fusion of old and new in the Italian Renaissance- inspired Corinthia Collection, and the stunning Japanese obi (sash) style borders of the Keiro Collection. She also loves the Shangri-La Collection of abstract cloud motifs by Samuel & Sons, if you’re looking for oriental styles, while the youthful and fun pom-pom fringes, like those in the Cirque Collection, are perfect for children’s rooms.

Victoria’s trimming tips • A little goes a long way • Pick your favourite fabric shades and choose trimmings accordingly • Tone-on-tone adds depth and interest • Use trimmings to enhance rather than change your style • Have fun – there’s a plethora of styles, textures, designs and colours

Visit the Altfield showroom at 1101, Nine Queen’s Road, Central. 2525 2738 | altfield.com.hk

Keiro Collection

29 DEC 18-JAN 19

Teak dining table from Vintage collection, $8,950; twist bench, $8,450; and twist stool, $1,750, TREE , 2870 1582, tree.com.hk

Handcrafted Lamberi dining chairs with cushioned seat and full fabric upholstery, made to order, starting from $4,000, DSL Furniture , 8191 3885, dslfurniture.com

DATE From traditional to contemporary, here are some stylish tables for your home. Dinner

Lamberi dining table with stainless steel frame, available with white or black painted glass surface, $10,000, DSL Furniture , 8191 3885, dslfurniture.com

30

DEC 18-JAN 19

xx x xx xxx xxxx x xxx

HOME & PROPERTY

Madison slate stone-inlay dining table with US walnut-wood base, from $9,980, Tequila Kola , 2877 3295, tequilakola.com

Lamberi dining table with marble top, $23,000, DSL Furniture , 8191 3885, dslfurniture.com

Thistle wallpaper from the Cole & Son’s Botanical Botanica collection, $1,920 per roll, Altfield , 2537, 6370, altfield.com.hk

Blonvilla double-folding table in sustainable wood, $7,990, and table setting accessories, Bowerbird Home , 2552 2727, bowerbird-home.com

Authentico dining table in solid sheesham wood, starting from $7,980, Tequila Kola , 2877 3295, tequilakola.com

Camellia wallpaper from the Cole & Son’s Botanical Botanica collection, $1,920 per roll, Altfield , 2537, 6370, altfield.com.hk

31 DEC 18-JAN 19

HOME & PROPERTY

ON THEMARKET

A s we enter the final quarter of 2018, the leasing market has taken on a slightly slower pace, with fewer new arrivals coming to settle their families into their new schools and jobs. As yet, the market has not seen any signs of a downward turn in rental levels, which have remained mainly stable or even marginally higher over the peak season. There continues to be speculation around various factors that could contribute to a more significant shift in market sentiment, including the impending vacancy tax, the US-China trade war and rising interest rates. The Hong Kong Government rejected all five tenders for the Mansfield Road site on The Peak that it received on the basis that none of the tendered premiums met its reserved price for the site. This incident might be a sign that market sentiment is taking a different direction. There are many properties that appeal to the expat community in the New Territories, and families are often keen to explore the options open to them by looking at places other than on Hong Kong Island, especially as more international schools open in the northern part of the territory. Rentals in Clearwater Bay and Sai Kung appear to be narrowing the gap between values on HK Island and in the New Territories.

Laurie Lankester Director, Residential Leasing and Relocation Services Jones Lang LaSalle Limited (JLL)

SENSE OF SPACE Area: Jardine’s Lookout Rent: HK$168,000 per month Size: 2,465 sq. ft

Bedrooms: 5 Bathrooms: 3

This beautiful apartment is highlighted by very high-quality finishes. It offers wonderful views across Victoria Harbour and spacious living literally minutes from Causeway Bay, and close to Central and Tai Koo. Full clubhouse facilities complete the picture and make this a perfect choice for families.

32

DEC 18-JAN 19

HOME & PROPERTY

An embodiment of contemporary design, these spacious houses are an ideal place for peaceful living in Siu Lam in Yuen Long. Each one has a garden, swimming pool, rooftop, internal elevator and covered car spaces, and provides exceptional privacy. Clubhouse facilities include a gym room, children’s den and function room.

EVERYTHING YOU NEED

Area: Siu Lam Rent: $150,000- $170,000 Size: 4,868-4,908 sq. ft

Bedrooms: 5 Bathrooms: 5

This duplex property boasts a waterfront position in a sought- after exclusive development overlooking Repulse Bay and beyond. There’s a large entertaining area upstairs, and three bedrooms and a dressing ro om/ s t ud y down s t a i r s . Residents can make use of the indoor swimming pool, gym and children’s play areas.

EXCLUSIVE DUPLEX Area: Repulse Bay Rent: $198,000 Size: 3,463 sq. ft

Bedrooms: 3 Bathrooms: 3

33 DEC 18-JAN 19

HOME & PROPERTY

The Lily is a new kind of luxury residence in Hong Kong and offers the chance to escape the city and relax in comfort and style. From the breathtaking views over Repulse Bay and the South China Sea to the detail that can be found in every single unit, this a residence that makes coming home a rewarding part of your day.

NEW & NOTABLE

Area: Repulse Bay Rent: $98,000- $400,000 Size: 1,305-5,847 sq. ft

Bedrooms: 2-5 Bathrooms: 1-4

A delightful colonial-style apartment that has been recently fully renovated with a modern kitchen and bathrooms, this is the ideal family property for those seeking the peace and quiet of true Southside living. It’s a rare find in a small and intimate low-rise setting.

COLONIAL FEEL

Area: Chung Hom Kok Rent: $76,000 Size: 1,530 sq. ft

Bedrooms: 3 Bathrooms: 2

For more detail on these properties or to see more options, go to jllresidential.com/hk/

34

DEC 18-JAN 19

LIFE & FAMILY

43 Christmas Shopping:

93 Buying Guide: Dining

Gift ideas for everyone

tables and accessories

Gifts Less Ordinary

40 Holiday Reading: New-release books for adults and kids

57 Financial Planning: How much money do we need to retire?

59 School Report: Updates from some of HK’s best schools

LIFE & FAMILY

WHAT’S NEW

CHRISTMAS CAMP Special Delivery

Hong Kong has a new baby store! Baby Basics was founded by Hong Kong-based parenting experts and sisters Arati and Anu Limbu, who have over 30 years of combined experience in the baby retail industry. The store is a full- service baby goods destination for parents and mums-to-be. You’ll find an extensive range of essential products for babies and toddlers. Lansing House, 41-47 Queen’s Road, Central. babybasics.hk

Keep the kids busy during the Christmas break at the Rumple and Friends “Crazy Christmas Camp”. The week- long camp includes activities such as drama exercises and games, arts and crafts, performance skills, Christmas carols and dances, and culminates with the performance of an original Christmas camp for friends and family. The camp runs from 10am to noon each day, from 17 to 21 December; the cost is HK$2,000. 5B, 5/F, 49-51 Jervois Street, Kin Commercial Building, SheungWan. rumpleandfriends.com

Britain Bound? Planning to send your child to school in the UK? Janie Richardson School Search offers bespoke and informed advice to demystify the complex British education s y s t e m d u r i n g a n y relocation process. The service provides families with tailored support and guidance to ensure the best educational choices are made at the right time – in short, finding a school that’s the right fit for your child’s personality and needs! jrschoolsearch.com

Causeway Kids’ Club

P o p u l a r f a m i l y members’ club Maggie & Rose is opening a new branch in Causeway Bay.

It will have a semi-padded soft play area, a conservatory with family-friendly menu, lounge and library corner, cinema and outdoor terrace. The new venue will also feature an adults’ and kids’ bar (kids can make their own mocktails!), while outside the club is a public M&R café and shop, and studios for classes, parties and events where members can enjoy special rates. The new club will be on the third floor of Lee Gardens Two and memberships are now available. Maggie & Rose launched in London in 2007 and opened in Repulse Bay in 2015. maggieandrose.com.hk

38

DEC 18-JAN 19

LIFE & FAMILY

Lavender’s Blue Stylish and sustainable cutlery and naperymakes a wonderful addition to anyone’s home. Lavender’s Blue has a beautiful range of cutlery rolls, plates, bowls and glasses, providing an eco-friendly way to avoid single-use plastic. The rolls,

with a conscience

which come in single and family size, contain bamboo cutlery and a stainless steel straw and brush. There are also durable plates and bowls in 100 percent melamine, and plastic glasses that could be mistaken for glass! Great for outdoor dining – or something child-friendly. contact@elbiehome.com

Give a gift that’s beautiful and sustainable! Herewe feature some of the eco-conscious vendors at the upcoming Prestige Fairs Christmas Gift Festival.

Cacao It’s hard to go wrong with chocolate as a present – but you’ll score extra brownie points with a treat from Cacao. The company uses eco-friendly packaging and ingredients, including cocoa and cocoa butter from a Colombian from certified sustainable forests. gomersal@netvigator.com NOW No Waste Fanny Moritz started NOW NoWaste to give people access to reusable and compostable products. All the company’s products, such as bamboo coffee cups and eco-friendly shopping bags, have recyclable

Ashanti Design Ashanti Design offers a range of up-cycled, eco-friendly and socially responsible products including bags, cushion covers, lamp shades and iconic bean bags. The products use hand-woven fabrics sourced from Africa, in a range of colours and styles. The company collects fabric offcuts that would otherwise go to landfill, which are then delivered to rural villages. The offcuts are woven into new fabric by traditional methods by local craftspeople, before being used to create Ashanti products. ashantidesign.com

WOMB Head toWOMB’s stand at the fair to browse the collection of products carefully curated by founders Kasia Galak and Maria Grzywacz. The company aims to act as an incubator for ecological, ethical and cruelty-free design and brands. Expect t o f i nd good i e s f rom companies such as Lyko, which creates durable and beautiful 100 percent linen products, Polish jewellery brand Mokave, and independent designer Magdalena Tekieli, whose notebooks, planners and sketch books are produced from 100 percent recycled paper. wombhk.com

producer, Casa Luker, which is committed to ending deforestation and does not use child labour. Cacao’s sugar supplier also helps to restore rainforests. The packaging is plastic-free, minimal and recyclable, with paper derived

packaging, are BPA-free, and are designed in France but made in China to reduce the carbon footprint. “For every disposable item you use in your kitchen, bathroom or at work, an alternative exists that is much better for the environment and for your health,” says Fanny. now-nowaste.com

All the details What: The Christmas Gift Festival When: 10am-8pm, Tuesday 11 December Where: Conrad Hong Kong, Grand Ballroom, Pacific Place Wallet: Free Web: prestigefairs.hk

39 DEC 18-JAN 19

LIFE & FAMILY

10 new and notable books recommended by the team at Bookazine.

ADULTS

KIDS Dog Man: Brawl of the Wild Dav Pilkey Dog Man is sent to the pound for a crime he didn’t commit. While his friends work to prove his innocence, Dog Man tries

Milkman Anna Burns

China Dream Ma Jian

In a city where being interesting is dangerous, Middle sister suddenly finds herself in the spotlight when rumours about her

I n s e v e n episodes, Ma J i a n s h o o t s a n a r r ow a t P r e s i d e n t

Xi Jinping’s “China Dream” propaganda. Blending tragically absurd reality with myth and fantasy, this dystopian novel reveals what China is today.

to find his place among dogs and people. Being a part of both worlds, will he even find his place in either? Queen of Air and

maybe-boyfriend and her encounter with Milkman start to spread. To be interesting is to be noticed and to be noticed is dangerous.

Darkness Cassandra Clare

NON-FICTION

Following the incidents of Lord of Shadows, Emma and Julian must save the Shadowhunters’ world before the deadly parabatai

Billion Dollar Whale Tom Wright and Bradley Hope

This definitive inside account of the extraordinary 1MDB scandal – a true-life thriller about a modern Gatsby who swindled over $5 billion – exposes the secret nexus of elite wealth, banking, Hollywood and politics from two award- Brief Answers to the Big Questions Stephen Hawking The renowned scientist who unravelled some of the universe’s greatest mysteries also believed science plays an important role in fixing Earth’s problems – from climate change and the threat of nuclear war to the development of artificial intelligence. He

curse destroys them and everyone they love. Clare’s books have sold more than 50 million copies worldwide.

winning Wall Street Journal reporters.

Geronimo David Walliams

B a b y p e n g u i n Geronimo has only one dream: to fly. But everyone knows that penguins can’t fly – or

explores those ideas in his last book.

can they? With help from his friends and family, Geronimo discovers that even the wildest dreams can come true. I Am a Rebel

Love for Imperfect Things Haemin Sunim

Many of us respond to life’s pressures by turning inward and ignoring them or by working harder, hoping that this will make ourselves and the people around us happier. This book by an influential Zen monk reveals how we must be at peace with ourselves before we can be at peace with the world around us. Celebrating Snoopy Charles Schulz The world’s most famous beagle gets the book he deserves in this collection, which won the 2018 Eisner Award for Best Archival Collection. Packed with five decades of Snoopy strips from Peanuts, it’s a heartwarming tribute and a collector’s item.

Girl: A Journal to Start Revolutions Elena Favilli and Francesca Cavallo

With original artwork by the artists who illustrated the Rebel Girl series, this activity-filled book will help all rebel girls embrace their own potential with joy.

Find Bookazine outlets in various Hong Kong locations including Shop 326-328, Landmark Prince’s Building, Central, and Shop 3092C, IFC Mall, Central, or visit the E-shop at bookazine.com.hk.

40

DEC 18-JAN 19

LIFE & FAMILY

HOME

Another instalment in our regular parenting column, by advisor, writer and mother of three, ORLABREEZE. Rated PG

I was a Stay-at-Home Mum. Then I wasn’t. Then I was. And now I find myself in a No-(Wo)Man’s-Land somewhere between being home all the time and away all the time. It’s complicated. But throughout my reign as Greatest Mother of All Time (according to my kids, that is, except for when they feel the complete opposite) one of the most discussed topics has been around the benefits of staying at home versus going to work. (And yes, that is a joke. Anyone who parents knows that whether you’re home or away, it’s a fulltime, 24/7 job without pay, holiday leave, or even time for a full cup of coffee. Am I right, people?) The first piece of research I heard on the subject was firmly in the corner of the SAHMs. And that made me happy because that’s exactly what I was at the time. But the next piece of research made me sad because this time it was the Go-To-Work Mums – henceforth known as GTWMs – who were winning. (It also made me a bit jealous because I secretly wanted to be out there in the workforce taking a break from parenthood.) (And yes, that’s a joke too because – all together now – there is no break from parenthood!) But my point is that if one piece of research says one thing, and the next says the other, that must mean there’s merit to both. Right? And if there’s merit to both then why are we still debating it? If a GTWM is showing her kids how to be strong, independent and responsible, and those kids benefit by becoming happy adults, then great! If the presence

of a SAHM improves her child’s academic achievement, stability and sense of well-being, then that’s great too! And if both sets of kids grow up with equal opportunity then guess what? Flippin’ GREAT! This habit of pitting one Mum against another when neither is winning nor losing the debate in the first place, has to stop. Because only one thing comes from it. Yup! The BIG G! (That’s Guilt, in case I hadn’t made that clear.) And before you go thinking that I’m ignoring the Dads here, I’m really not. My point is pointed at them too. Lot of Dads feel guilty about not being there for their kids all of the time, especially those whose schedule requires a lot of travel. Knowing that a kid can handle Dad not being present in every moment is a good thing to know. However, I have something to add to this – don’t I always? There’s another level at play here that’s about more than the amount of time a parent is in their child’s presence. Just to clarify, SAHMs are not spending every moment of every day intently focused on their kids’ emotional and educational development. (As a former SAHM, I certainly wasn’t!) So it’s really not about the amount of time you’re physically with your children. It’s about what you are doing and how you are being when that time comes. And that’s whether your daily routine allows you to spend all of your time with them, or only some. It’s quality not quantity. Make the time you give them enjoyable for both of you, and that’s what they’ll take with them on their journey to adulthood. Debate done!

41 DEC 18-JAN 19