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Mexican artist Bosco Sodi discusses clay, volcanic stone and Casa Wabi in Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca, designed by Tadao Ando, plus the Venice Biennale. April 2023 | Art & Culture | Vol 9 BOSCO SODI Unique, unrepeatable explorations words Onur Baştürk photos Alex Krotkov, Greg Delves He paints large-scale, textured paintings. Sometimes sculptural objects... The main indispensable raw, natural material. Sawdust, wood, pulp, clay, and sometimes even solid volcanic magma collected from the volcano can form his artifacts. He sees the creative process as something unrepeatable and describes this process as “controlled chaos”. That is, he mixes raw materials with natural fibers and glue to create the dense surface of the paintings. As the layers of material dry, the surface begins to take shape. The textured surface, which naturally cracks, is a product of both the creative process and nature’s unpredictability. He also shapes the clay with his hands into smooth, solid cubes, which he allows to dry in the sun before firing them in a traditional brick kiln. Each cube takes on a unique identity as the material changes in color and texture during this process. These are the first characteristics that come to mind about Mexican artist Bosco Sodi... but of course, there are more! For example, Casa Wabi, the ‘art residency’ center for artists founded in Oaxaca. Or the unforgettable landscape of 195 stunning clay balls representing the world’s nation-states... I LOVE WORKING WITH CLAY Have you focused more on sculpture and Mexican heritage traditions in recent years? Or has that always been the case? Actually, I have always been interested in working with sculpture as an object or establishing its relationship with space. Also, the strong presence of stone figures had always attracted me, as my family took me to the Mayan ruins as a child. The sculptures you made out of clay are very remarkable. You say that it’s in our DNA to work with clay. In fact, all the earliest sculptures in human history are made of clay. When did your connection to clay begin? I have been working with clay since I was a child. But when we opened Casa Wabi, I encountered clay again. Because there is a great variety of artisans here. I love working with clay. Clay is a very interesting material. Because it contains four elements... Your clay balls, “What Goes Around Comes Around”, also exhibited at the Venice Biennale, were like old relics... I made these clay balls, all different from each other, by hand and fired them in the kiln. At the end of the Venice Biennale, Venetians could buy one of the balls and take it home! You collected solidified volcanic magma from the Ceboruco volcano to make stone sculptures. How did you discover it? Is it not hard to collect? I was sure that I would get the rocks from this volcano. But I did not carve the rocks. I chose rocks with interesting shapes and cleaned them. Then I polished them with red and real gold glass. The idea was to create an object of desire from a rock that was organic and unique. UNPREDICTABLE STATE OF THE NATURAL MATERIAL It is essential for you to use the raw materials of nature. Which raw material interests you the most? I work with sawdust in my paintings and stone or clay in my sculptures. I love that organic materials are unpredictable and always lead us to a unique result, a place of no return. Will you be making more sculptures from now on? Or have you left your production process to “uncontrolled chaos”, as is the nature of your work? My point is the lack of control and the fact that things evolve on their own. For unique and unrepeatable undertakings... How are the works in your latest exhibition, “Alabanzas”? This exhibition is about my works during the pandemic. I wanted to show people how healing could creating be in these difficult times. What does the Casa Wabi you set up for artists mean to you? Is this really the place you imagined? Casa Wabi is a life project for me. The artists are selected by a board of trustees and then invited. We can invite six artists at a time, and they work with the local community. It is a project I am very proud of! You live between New York and Oaxaca. Does living in different cities and areas nourish you? Home for me is New York. The place where my kids go to school is our main place. Oaxaca is where I see my family and friends and ‘retouch’ my roots. I love this multicultural perspective that inspires much of my work. CASA WABI Casa Wabi was founded by Bosco Sodi to promote the exchange of ideas between artists and local communities. The gallery is located in the Mexican city of Puerto Escondido, overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Named after the Japanese philosophy of wabi-sabi, in which imperfections are blessed, Pritzker Prize-winning architect Tadao Ando designed this spacious art center. At first glance, Casa Wabi stands out for its thatched roof made of dried palm leaves. Buildings with this type of roof, common in the region, are called “palapa”. Casa Wabi’s interiors, on the other hand, have a more modern feel with geometric concrete walls, columns, stone floors, and wooden shutters. for more Print VOL IX - 2023 Out of Stock Add to Cart

Silent Living brings together guest houses, restaurants, and an estate across Lisbon and Alentejo, including Santa Clara 1728 and Casa na Terra. June 19, 2025 | VOL 15 the SOUND of SILENCE words Soraia Martins photos Richard Gaston (Casa no Tempo + Herdade no Tempo)) Renée Rae & Tim Reed (Cabanas no Rio + Casas na Areia) Ana Sofia & Nelson Garrido (Casa na Terra) Renée Kemps (Santa Clara 1728) Casa no Tempo Stepping into the stone-clad entrance of Santa Clara 1728, its grandeur astounds me. The moon-shaped lamp by designer Davide Groppi hangs above a sprawling sofa, and a mighty staircase invite us to explore. This 18th-century building in the heart of the Santa Clara quarter in Lisbon hides an impressive guest house, where historic legacy and architectural elegance intertwine. The owner is João Rodrigues, a pilot by trade and hospitality devotee by heart, who decided to transform family-owned houses into places where guests can disconnect and be one with nature – and themselves. Within this gracefully understated space, João tells the story of how Silent Living came to be – organically, with time, and without an explicit plan. Now, Silent Living stands as a growing collection of five houses, two restaurants, and one estate, all between Lisbon and Alentejo. The first house was Casas na Areia, which began as a weekend house, a place to escape to and be together as a family. In addition to an aesthetically uncluttered vision brought to life by long-time friend and architect Manuel Aires Mateus – who worked on all the properties – this house stands out for a remarkable feature: a floor covered in sand with a heated concrete pavement beneath, an ode to its idyllic location in the dunes of Comporta, in coastal Alentejo. Soon, it was not just João and his family gathering there, but friends. Friends of friends. And before long, strangers. The house, once private, had opened its doors to a quiet kind of hospitality rooted in memory and simplicity. Then came Cabanas no Rio, two thatched roof fisherman’s huts facing the Sado river and sitting very close to Casas na Areia – both properties located inside the natural reserve, where guests are free to enjoy nature in all its glory. Herdade no Tempo KEEPING SUSTAINABILITY AT ITS CORE, CEIA SOURCES MANY OF ITS INGREDIENTS FROM ANOTHER SILENT LIVING PROPERTY, HERDADE NO TEMPO, HOLISTIC FARMING ESTATE IN THE HEART OF ALENTEJO Casa na Terra Back at Santa Clara 1728, where João and his family have moved in permanently, Lisbon hums just outside its heavy wooden doors. The rhythm of the city overwhelms even the most adventurous. But inside, time stands still. Light moves gently through the tall windows, softening these centuries-old walls. Next to the main entrance we find Ceia, the fine dining restaurant that has been captivating food enthusiasts all over town. The epicurean experience is led by head chef Renato Bonfim and team, delighting guests with a 10-course menu spread across a communal table that accommodates up to 14 diners. The new chapter – ‘Change’ – evokes the need for environmental education and encourages guests to reflect on the role food plays in our lives. Keeping sustainability at its core, Ceia sources many of its ingredients from another Silent Living property, Herdade no Tempo, a 1000-acre regenerative and holistic farming estate even further south, in the very heart of inner Alentejo. Entrusted to João’s family in his grandfather will, both Herdade no Tempo and Casa no Tempo – yet another unique guest house that feels like a dream within a dream – have been restored and cared for to keep the cycles of nature running as smoothly as possible. Every detail was generously crafted to blend with the surrounding landscape, where nature and design truly come together to create a home. Here, silence is vast, almost tangible. Casa na Terra, still in Alentejo, close to the Alqueva lake, is the fifth and last – so far – house belonging to the Silent Living collection, an architectural, mostly concrete work of art, with the only visible element being a canopy with a circular skylight emerging from the ground. Cabanas no Rio WHEREVER YOU FIND YOURSELF, THERE ARE NO GRAND GESTURES, NO EXTRAVAGANT DETAILS Casas na Areia As Silent Living keeps consolidating its rightful place as an ever-evolving constellation of guest houses across Portugal, the intention becomes clearer: to create places where guests can feel safe, cared for, and at ease. Wherever you find yourself, there are no grand gestures, no extravagant details. The architecture, using local materials and respecting traditional craftsmanship whenever possible; the textures, the rituals of the day; a window opened to let in the morning air, a walk at dusk - all these moments invite you to reconnect, be present, and enjoy the sound of silence. Santa Clara 1728 for more Print VOL XV - 2025 Out of Stock Add to Cart

Ceramic Brussels 2025 brought 70 galleries and more than 200 artists to Brussels, with Norway Focus highlighting contemporary Norwegian ceramics. January 2025 | Art & Culture CERAMIC BRUSSELS 2025: Shaping Creativity words Bike Çetinel The second edition of Ceramic Brussels, held from January 22 to 26, 2025, emphasized the city’s position as a key hub for contemporary ceramic art. Bringing together 70 galleries from 15 countries and featuring over 200 artists, the fair provided an expansive platform for exploring the possibilities of ceramics. This year’s edition placed a special focus on Norway, offering an in-depth look at the country’s growing ceramic art market and its dynamic community of artists and collectors. NORWAY FOCUS In collaboration with Norwegian Crafts, Ceramic Brussels 2025 presented Norway Focus, a dedicated section highlighting the vibrancy of contemporary Norwegian ceramics. Galleries such as Format, QB Gallery, Kiosken, Skog Art Space, and RAM Galleri showcased groundbreaking works that blurred the lines between art and design. As an emerging market for ceramic collectors, Norway’s influence in the contemporary art landscape is steadily growing. The participation of Norwegian galleries and artists at the fair underscored a commitment to fostering cross-cultural dialogue. The initiative included panel discussions, artist talks, and a Focus Norway Night, hosted by His Excellency Jørn Gloslie, Ambassador of Norway to Belgium. The event brought together key figures from the art world, further elevating the global significance of Norwegian ceramics. THE PUBLIC ARENA Ceramic Brussels 2025 also featured a dedicated Public Arena, designed as a space for compact installations and experimental works. Among the standout artists in this section were Luna-Isola Bersanetti and Raphaël Emine, both of whom redefined the possibilities of ceramics through unconventional methods. - Luna-Isola Bersanetti seamlessly merged ceramics with textiles, creating wearable ceramic sculptures that explored themes of transformation and movement. Her notable piece, Reptilians: A Prophecy in Five Skins, incorporated porcelain scales and beads, assembled into garments that produced sound as they interacted with the body. These live performances introduced a multisensory dimension to ceramic art, bridging tradition with performative storytelling. - Raphaël Emine, on the other hand, pushed the boundaries of bio-art and technology. By integrating 3D printing with traditional clay techniques, Emine created bio-ceramic sculptures incorporating living organisms such as bacteria, plants, and insects. His work posed critical questions about sustainability and the evolving relationship between the natural and the artificial, making ceramics a medium for scientific and ecological exploration. HIGHLIGHT GALLERIES AND THEIR ARTISTS Ceramic Brussels 2025 also showcased an impressive selection of galleries, with several standout presentations: - Sorry We’re Closed (Brussels): This gallery won the Solo Show Award for their exceptional booth presentation, which featured the renowned Japanese-American artist Jun Kaneko. His monumental, large-scale ceramic sculptures captivated audiences with their interplay of color, form, and texture, bridging the gap between contemporary ceramics and sculpture. - Lefebvre & Fils (Paris): Hosted a solo exhibition by Héloïse Piraud, an artist celebrated for her experimental approach to ceramics. Piraud’s work combined raw clay textures with intricate glazing techniques, creating a dialogue between fragility and adaptability. Her pieces, often inspired by organic and geological formations, solidified her reputation as one of the most intriguing voices in contemporary ceramic art.

Eylül 2022 | Art | Türkiye Kanlıca’dan yükselen ‘Özgürlük Heykeli’ Yazı | Onur Baştürk T aner Ceylan’ın 15 yıl aradan sonra açtığı yeni sergisinin en rol çalan starı, beyaz saten bir kumaşa sarındığını hayal ettiğimiz, vücut hatları belli, ama bir yandan da gizemli bir İstanbul heykeli. Sergiye mekan olan Kanlıca’daki Mehmet Emin Ağa Yalısı’nın denize bakan girişine kondurulan heykelin cinsiyeti erkek. İstanbul’u yıllardır bir kadın olarak tasvir etmeye alışkın zihinleri ters köşeye yatıran bu heybetli heykelin bir de videosu var. Bir bakıma, heykelin ete kemiğe büründüğü bir video. Cem Adrian’ın hem tema müziğini üstlenip hem de bizzat başrolünde olduğu bir video bu. Videonun sonlarına doğru üzerindeki kumaşı atıp Özgürlük Heykeli misali parlak mehtaba karşı kendini sergiliyor Cem Adrian’da vücut bulmuş İstanbul heykeli. Hayli provokatif, hayli umursamaz, hayli küstah ama aynı zamanda hayli incelikli bir kırılganlık içinde… Bu bağlantılı iki iş, son dönemde ısrarla yükselmesi arzu edilen ve bu uğurda her gün bir şey yapılagelen ama ne yazık ki içi boş olan LGBTİ+ karşıtlığına da çıplak, pirüpak, kudretli/popolu bir yanıt (şaplak) gibi de algılanabilir pekala. İSTANBUL BUNU ÖĞRETİYOR İŞTE Mehmet Emin Ağa Yalısı’ndaki işlere göz gezdirirken dikkat çeken damarlarlardan biri de şu: Tablolardaki figürler kimi zaman küstah, asi ve başını asla öne eğmeyen direnç gülleri. Kimi zaman da kırılgan ve her tür incelikli duyguya aç, teslim olmaya hazır, über duygulu ayrık otları. Tıpkı İstanbul’un kendisi gibi. Yahut İstanbul’un bizi kendine benzetmesi gibi. İkisinden biri. Nitekim hangimiz İstanbul’da bu duygu ve karakter bariyerlerine çarpıp çarpıp her gün ve gece sersem sepet olmuyoruz ki? İstanbul bunu öğretiyor işte: Başka türlü ayakta kalamazsın, kendine gel! GÜZ AYAZINDA KOR ATEŞİM Aslında Taner Ceylan’ın İstanbul temalı bu yeni resimlerindeki referanslar gayet eski zamanlara ait. Ama nedense bana hiçbiri “eski” gelmedi. Yahut şöyle de denebilir: Bir şeyler değişiyor gibi geliyor ama öz aynı kalıyor. Beni en çok etkileyen işlerden biri de elindeki beyaz gülle öylece kalakalmış, ama çapkın şehvetinden de gram eksilme olmamış eski dönem askerinin tablosu. Askerin hemen karşısındaki tabloda yer alan, günümüzün “gender fluid” akımına uygun olarak gayet cinsiyetsiz ve bir yılan çevikliğinde kendini gösteren figür ise -Taner Ceylan’ın deyişiyle- askerin bu kadar hüzün denizine düşmüş olmasının yegâne sebebi! Bir yanıyla İstanbul’un gay barlarında danseden kıvrak bir zenneyi yahut ‘drag queen’i de anımsatmıyor değil bu deli dolu, küstah ve başına buyruk figür. İkisine de bakınca Sezen Aksu’nun “Yarası Saklım” şarkısının şu iç titreten dizelerini mırıldanmamak imkansız görünüyor gönül bağlarının sazlı sözlü akşamlarında: “Yaralı kuşum, hazan güneşim, güz ayazında kor ateşim, bir sözün uçur göğüm gün açsın, yad eller aldı bizi”. YARATILAN CENNETİN SON MAHSULLERİ Londra’daki “I Love You” isimli ilk sergisini 2016’da açtıktan sonra verdiği bir Ali Tufan Koç röportajında şöyle demişti Taner Ceylan: “Herkes hayatım boyunca kendi doğrusunu empoze etmeye çalıştı bana. Reddettim. Aksine kendi gerçeğimi anlatmaya çalıştım. Zor oldu, ama başardım. Şu an cennette gibiyim” İşte bu sergideki işler de Ceylan’ın kendi elleriyle yıllar boyu ince ince dokuduğu ve sonunda başardığı engin cennetinin son mahsülleri. Nitekim taze meyvenin dayanılmaz sulu cazibesi gibi hepsini ısırmak, içine çekmek istiyor insan. Bazı eserler elbette şunu da alt metinliyor daha bakar bakmaz: “Benden uzak dur, ısırmak yasak, sadece bak”. Nitekim Koral Sagular’ın poz verdiği tablo onlardan biri. Ceylan tüm bu işleri Kemer’deki heybetli Olimpos Dağı’na ve zeytin ağaçlarına bakan, bir yamacın sırtına inşa ettirdiği evindeki atölyesinde yaptı. Orayı kafasındaki cennetin somutlaşmış hali olarak merkezledi; ki oraya dair düşlerini yakın zamanda Yuzu Vol7 sayısında yazmış, fotoğraflamıştık. Şanslıyız. Son olarak; “Aheste Çek Kürekleri Mehtap Uyanmasın” sergisine giderken şu aklınızda olsun: Tıpkı heykelin kendisi gibi gözlerin hep yükselen mehtaba doğru kilitlenip sarhoş olduğu, ama ertesi gün her daim dimdik ayakta günler/geceler yaşatıyor İstanbul. Tam bir aşk/nefret gelgitliğinde…

Minos Beach Art Hotel in Crete brings together sculpture, Cretan architecture, coastal dining, and immersive cultural experiences near Agios Nikolaos. June 31, 2025 | VOL 16 LIVING with ART, BREATHING in CRETE words Harper Ellis photos Fernando Marroquin, Amy Neunsinger, Jasmine Scalesciani-Hawken Crete is a land of contrasts—ancient and modern, rugged yet refined, deeply rooted yet always evolving. On the island’s serene northeastern coast, just outside the harbor town of Agios Nikolaos, Minos Beach Art Hotel brings these layers to life through a rare blend of art, architecture, and immersive hospitality. AT MINOS BEACH, ART DOESN’T JUST HANG ON THE WALLS—IT SURROUNDS YOU. SCULPTURE LIVES AMONG THE PINE TREES, CUISINE TELLS THE STORY OF THE LAND, AND EVERY ELEMENT INVITES YOU TO SLOW DOWN AND FEEL THE ISLAND BREATHE. From the moment you arrive, it’s clear: art, nature, culture, and design aren’t separate here—they’re part of the same conversation. Low-slung, whitewashed bungalows stretch along 2 km of shoreline, shaded by pine trees and punctuated by striking site-specific sculptures. The hotel’s Sculpture Garden began as a visionary experiment in 1988, when Gina Mamidaki—founder of the Mamidakis Foundation and current CEO of Bluegr Hotels & Resorts—organized the first Art Symposium on the property, well before artist residencies became common. Today, that vision continues through the George and Aristea Mamidakis Foundation, which supports an annual Art Prize, cultural programming, and a Research Residency Programme launched in 2022. What makes Minos truly unique is the seamless integration of all these elements. Architecture takes cues from traditional Cretan forms—flat roofs, clean lines, and a natural palette—while interiors are understated and textural, blending simplicity with artisan-crafted elegance. Here, you don’t just observe the landscape; you live within it. Art doesn’t hang on walls—it surrounds you. EXPLORING CRETE, VILLAGE BY VILLAGE That same spirit carries into every part of the guest experience. Visitors are encouraged to step beyond the hotel and into the rhythms of Cretan life. One highlight is the Kritsa Experience—a guided visit to one of Crete’s oldest mountain villages, where guests can explore the Xombli weaving workshop, meet the women behind the local agricultural cooperative, and witness firsthand the preservation of traditional craftsmanship. There’s also Rodanthi, a charming natural herb museum filled with the myths and uses of native plants, followed by a visit to a nearby olive oil press and a proper lunch at a classic taverna—honest food, made with love and intention. For beach lovers, the crystalline waters of Voulisma and Almyros Beaches are just a short drive away, offering sun-soaked serenity. And for a deeper look into Crete’s layered past, a boat trip to the island of Spinalonga offers powerful perspective. DINING BY THE SEA, ROOTED IN THE ISLAND Back at Minos, the culinary offering is every bit as soulful as the setting. The hotel features three distinctive restaurants—Bacchus, Terpsis, and the legendary La Bouillabaisse—four bars (Dionysos, Pure, Ibiscus, and La Cave), and a traditional kafeneion, Adeste. Each brings its own rhythm, rooted in Cretan and Greek culinary heritage, enhanced by innovation and seasonality. La Bouillabaisse, in particular, has long been a landmark of modern Greek gastronomy—earning eight Golden Chef’s Hat awards and serving as a creative training ground for chefs like Giannis Grillionakis and Sven Elverfeld of Germany’s 3-Michelin-starred Aqua. Minos is also a proud founding member of the “We Do Local” initiative, which champions sustainable practices and supports local farmers, fishers, and artisans. This isn’t just food—it’s a philosophy. And it’s made personal by the team, whose passion for Cretan identity and culture brings every detail to life. Ultimately, Minos Beach Art Hotel offers more than design-conscious luxury. It’s a soulful, art-driven, and deeply rooted hospitality experience—one that invites you to slow down, look deeper, and connect with Crete in a way that’s both thoughtful and unforgettable. for more Print VOL XVI - AEGEAN & MEDITERRANEAN 2025 Out of Stock Add to Cart

Cosmos and Matter turns a Parisian Haussmann apartment into a sensory installation celebrating sustainable design, natural materials, and mindful living. January 2025 | DESIGN & INTERIORS a SENSORY JOURNEY in PARIS: Cosmos and Matter words Karine Monie photos Jérôme Galland, Mathilde Hiley If you need an excuse to visit Paris, here’s the perfect one: this temporary space, located in the heart of Paris in a striking Haussmann apartment adorned with elegant moldings and classic parquet floors, celebrates sustainable design in style. Through a curated selection of pieces by innovative designers, skilled artisans, and visionary artists, it merges aesthetics, wellness, and non-toxic materials. The installation, created by Cosmos and Matter—founded by the Sustainable Design Association in 2021 to promote virtuous practices in the design world—can be visited until February 16. “We believe the nature of the choices we make every day impacts not only our inner selves but also the state of the world at large,” says Marie-Cassandre Bultheel, co-founder of Cosmos and Matter. “We want to offer a new art of living that deeply draws on the knowledge and wisdom of our ancestors while also caring for the future.” “Living in a space is much more complex than a simple interaction with materials,” Marie-Cassandre continues. “It’s about a delicate and precious relationship with the Earth and the cosmos. This is why Cosmos and Matter presents a new proposition, one that can be understood through the sensitivity of our bodies, the power of our perceptions, and the depth of our emotions. For this reason, the installation can be visited barefoot”. How can we live differently within our interiors? This was the starting point for imagining the apartment, which features 10 scenes displayed in different rooms that create a sensory journey. Each area highlights a facet of the art of a more eco-friendly living, where the alchemy between traditions and modernity invites aesthetes, designers and art lovers to question themselves. In the apartment are a Botanic Bar, a Table of the Living, a Moon Lounge, a Sun Lounge and a “cosmic soundscape” room. “I wanted the curation to focus on designers, artisans, and artists who honor natural cycles and universal laws,” says Marie-Cassandre. “It’s about celebrating a form of luxury that respects not just the human soul but also the Earth.” The list of featured designers and artists includes: Alyssa Jos, Anna-Alexandra, Atelier Musset, Attraction Terrestre, Bazar d'Alger, BehaghelFoiny, Elisa Uberti, Hors Studio, Joanna Prunes, Jorg Koziol, Léa Laborie, Linda Pappa, Lucie Ponard, Manon Ledieu, Marie Simon Thomas, Marcela Paz Undurraga, Padmakshi, Pauline Effantin, Paysan Parfumeur, Sacha Parent, Shira Bio, and Tij. The materials chosen for the showcased pieces reflect the philosophy of Cosmos and Matter: reclaimed wood, natural textiles, pigments derived from earth, plant-based leathers obtained from dehydrated fruits and vegetables, and other living, natural, healthy materials (free from petrochemicals)—all selected for their low environmental impact. THE VISIONARY MINDS BEHIND COSMOS AND MATTER The creative force driving Cosmos and Matter comprises two trailblazing women: - Marie-Cassandre Bultheel: An artistic director and curator passionate about creating urban sanctuaries. Known for her conscious approach to design, she is also the co-founder of the Biennale Amour Vivant. - Hélène Aguilar: An entrepreneur, futurist, and exhibition curator with expertise in non-petrochemical materials innovation. She is the founder of the podcast Where is the Beauty? and a co-founder of the Biennale Amour Vivant. Together, they have crafted a concept that seamlessly combines sustainability, artistry, and mindful living. LOOKING TOWARD THE FUTURE This Parisian installation marks just the beginning. Starting in 2025, Cosmos and Matter aims to expand into other cities worldwide, using ephemeral spaces to challenge our perceptions of sustainability and inspire new design practices.

Sicily travel notes cover Baroque Noto, Taormina, Palermo and Syracuse, with recommended restaurants, wine bars and boutique hotels. April 2024 | Travel TR BELOW WHAT to DO and WHERE to GO in SICILY words Onur Baştürk Sicily was one of the islands I wanted to visit for a long time. The fact that the second season of White Lotus was set in Taormina in Sicily made me want to go even more and finally I found myself in Catania after a two-hour Turkish Airlines flight. Now here are my Sicily notes... NOTO Sicily's most baroque town, Noto, used to be somewhere else. After an earthquake in 1693 left the original city in ruins, it was rebuilt nearby, and no expense was spared. The resulting city is described as: "There are thousands of lovely old towns all over Sicily and Italy. But none more charming than Noto". And one more thing: Sicilians find the people in Noto more noble. "Because", they say, "it's all about the attitude in the 'passeggiata'" (Passeggiata is a word for walking slowly down the street. A kind of swaying walk). Anyway, there is one more place to visit after seeing Noto: Ragusa. Try to arrive in Ragusa at noon and have dinner at Ciccio Sultano before the service closes. This is a restaurant in the "don't leave without tasting" category. After Ragusa, I visited Modica which is very close. They said the chocolate here is very famous. Maybe because I am not a chocolate lover or maybe because I visited Modica after Noto and Ragusa, I did not love Modica. But if you visit here, it is essential to stop by Antica Dolceria and buy chocolate. SYRACUSE Syracuse has become one of my favorite places. Especially Ortigia, the peninsula at the edge of the city. There are some delicious concept shops here, as well as an unforgettable restaurant: Apollonion Osteria da Carlo. They have a menu of only four dishes. And they are all very good dishes. TAORMINA See Taormina from the top, from Castelmola. If you have time, visit the village of Savoca. Then go back to the center and try these restaurants: Osteria da Rita, Osteria Santa Domenica, Tischi Toschi and Anciovi, the lunch-only restaurant at the Four Seasons, home of the White Lotus. PALERMO At first glance, the capital Palermo looks very neglected, but that changes once you get inside and explore its streets. Because the real Sicilians are here! Especially compared to Taormina, this place is not so touristic. In this respect, it is possible to mingle with the locals. The most popular bar is Hic! La Folie du Vin. It is a wine bar and they sell all the wines grown on the island by the glass. What's more, it's crowded both inside and outside and as I said, you instantly mingle with Sicilians and become a "local"... I will recommend two other Palermo restaurants that are always frequented by locals: Bocum and Sardina PastaBar. Two important buildings to see while walking in Palermo are The Palazzo dei Normanni and The Cathedral of Monreale. Both of these buildings are "Sicilian Romanesque". In other words, an eclectic fusion of western and Arabic architecture. It is also recommended to stop for an espresso at the Mercato il Capo, Palermo's famous open-air market, and the café Ojda. Before I forget: Dine at Locanda Del Marinaio in Cefalù, an hour from Palermo. WHERE TO STAY - At the Zash Country Boutique Hotel in the Catania region, in the middle of vineyards and at the foot of Etna. - At Villa Igiea, an early 20th-century palace, a splendid Art Nouveau design heritage. - At Dimora Delle Balze, a 19th-century estate turned into a chic boutique hotel with a restaurant called Lumia, 15 minutes from Noto and my favorite hotel on the island. * Bu seyahatteki katkılarından ötürü Sestri Lifestyle & Travel ’e teşekkürler Uzun süredir gitmek istediğim adalardan biriydi Sicilya. White Lotus’un ikinci sezonunun Sicilya’daki Taormina’da geçmesi gitme isteğimi daha çok kanatlandırdı ve sonunda iki saatlik THY uçuşu sonrası kendimi Catania’da buldum. Şimdi buyurun Sicilya notlarına… NOTO Sicilya’nın en barok kenti Noto, aslında eskiden başka bir yerdeymiş. 1693’teki depremden sonra orijinal kent harabeye dönünce yakın mesafede kent yeniden yeniden inşa edilmiş ve bunun için hiçbir masraftan kaçınılmamış. Sonuçta ortaya çıkan kent için şöyle deniliyor: “Sicilya ve İtalya'nın her yerinde binlerce sevimli eski şehir var. Ama hiçbiri Noto'dan daha sevimli değil”. Bir şey daha: Sicilyalılar, Noto'daki insanları daha soylu buluyor. “Çünkü” deniliyor, “Her şey ‘passeggiata’daki tavırla ilgili” (Passeggiata, sokakta yavaş adımlarla yürüyüp gezinmek için kullanılan bir kelime. Bir tür, salınarak yürümek). Noto’yu gördükten sonra uğranacak bir yer daha var: Ragusa. Ragusa’ya öğle vakti gelmeye çalışın ve servis kapanmadan Ciccio Sultano’da yemeğe oturun. Burası “tatmadan dönme” kategorisinde bir restoran. Ragusa’dan sonra çok yakın olan Modica’ya da uğradım. Buranın çikolatası çok meşhur dediler. Belki çok çikolata delisi olmadığımdan belki de Noto ve Ragusa’dan sonra gittiğim için Modica’ya pek bayılmadım. Ama buraya uğrarsanız Antica Dolceria dükkânına uğrayıp çikolata almak elzem. SYRACUSE Syracuse ya da bir diğer seslenişiyle Sirakuza en sevdiğim yerlerden biri oldu. Özellikle kentin ucundaki yarımada Ortigia. Burada çok nefis konsept dükkânların yanı sıra unutulmaz bir restoran da var: Apollonion Osteria da Carlo. Sadece dört tabaktan oluşan bir menüleri var. Hepsi de birbirinden iyi tabaklar ve euro ödemenize rağmen fiyatlar İstanbul’daki popüler bir restorandan daha ucuz. TAORMINA Taormina’ya önce en tepeden, yani Castelmola’dan bakın. Vakit kalırsa Savoca köyüne uğrayın. Sonra da merkeze dönüp şu restoranları deneyin: Osteria da Rita, Osteria Santa Domenica, Tischi Toschi ve White Lotus’un mekanı Four Seasons’ın sadece öğlenleri açık olan restoranı Anciovi. PALERMO Başkent Palermo ilk bakışta çok bakımsız duruyor, ama içine girip sokaklarını keşfedince durum değişiyor. Çünkü gerçek Sicilyalılar burada! Özellikle Taormina’ya göre burası o kadar turistik değil. Bu açıdan lokallerle kaynaşmanız mümkün. En popüler barı açıklıyorum: Hic! La Folie du Vin. Bir şarap barı ve adada yetişen tüm şarapları kadeh olarak satıyorlar. Dahası, hem içerisi hem de dışarısı kalabalık ve dediğim gibi Sicilyalılarla anında kaynaşıp “lokal” oluyorsunuz… Hep lokallerin gittiği iki Palermo restoranı daha önereceğim: Bocum ve Sardina PastaBar. Palermo’da yürüyüş yaparken görülmesi gereken iki önemli yapı ise The Palazzo dei Normanni ve The Cathedral of Monreale. Bu iki yapı da “Sicilian Romanesque”. Yani batı mimarisi ile Arap mimarisinin eklektik bir füzyonu. Palermo’nun meşhur açık hava pazarı Mercato il Capo ve Ojda isimli kafede espresso molası vermek de ayrıca tavsiye. Unutmadan: Palermo’ya bir saat uzaklıktaki Cefalù’daki Locanda Del Marinaio’da yemek yiyin. NEREDE KALMALI - Catania bölgesinde, Etna’nın eteğinde yer alan Zash Country Boutique Otel’de. - 20. yüzyıl başlarında bir saray olan, görkemli bir Art Nouveau tasarım mirası olan Villa Igiea’da. - 19. yüzyıldan kalma bir mülkün şık bir butik otele çevrilmiş hali olan, Lumia isimli restoranı ayrıca nefis, Noto’ya 15 dakika uzaklıkta, adadaki en favori otelim olan Dimora Delle Balze’de.

The Vista House by BLA Design Group blends a black exterior, glass, wood and concrete with its steep, forested site in North Vancouver. June 2024 | Design & Interiors english below THE VISTA HOUSE Where nature with Legendary West Coast Architecture words Laura Cottrell photos Andrew Latreille S akin ormanlar ve dağlarla çevrili The Vista House, doğa ile kusursuz kaynaşmanın iyi bir örneği. Nefes kesici manzaralar ve çağdaş mimariden esinlenen bu ev, cam ve ahşap aksanları uyumlu bir şekilde harmanlayan şık siyah dış cephesiyle öne çıkıyor. Ron Thom, Arthur Erickson ve Olson Kundig gibi ikonik Batı Yakası mimarlarından esinlenen evin tasarımı BLA Design Group’a ait. Şehrin karmaşasının yerini sakin bir dağ fonuna bıraktığı Kuzey Vancouver’da konumlanan The Vista House’un tasarımında, arazinin düzensiz huni şekli ve dik topografyası temel bir rol oynamış. Evin cam girişinde açık yaşam alanlarındaki mahremiyeti korumak için tasarlanmış bir dizi ahşap çıta yer alıyor ve bu aynı zamandagün boyunca gölge etkileşimi de yaratıyor. Girişten içeri adım attığınızda görülen dış beton duvar iç mekana kadar uzanıyor ve büyüleyici bir iç mekan özelliğine dönüşüyor. Önden tek katlı basit bir yapı olarak görünen ev, çevredeki manzaraya nazikçe yerleşiyor. Sedir tavan, ana yaşam alanıyla benzer manzaraları paylaşan evin birincil yatak odasında da devam ediyor. Büyük bir sürgülü cam kapı ise uzak dağ manzaraları ve doğrudan balkon erişimi sağlayarak hem mahremiyette hem de alanlar arasında bağlantıda esneklik sağlıyor. BLA Design Group ekibi dış cephede ağırlıklı olarak siyah, iç mekanlarda ise ahşap ve bej tonlarını bir arada kullanmış. BLA’dan Jerry Liu ve Jesse Basran, “Evin dış cephesi eğimli araziye entegre durumda olduğu için mekanların aydınlık ve ferah olmasını istedik” diyor. S urrounded by serene forests and mountains, The Vista House is a fine example of seamless integration with nature. Inspired by breathtaking views and contemporary architecture, this home features a sleek black exterior that harmoniously blends glass and wood accents. Inspired by iconic West Coast architects such as Ron Thom, Arthur Erickson and Olson Kundig, the home was designed by BLA Design Group. Located in North Vancouver, where the hustle and bustle of the city gives way to a serene mountain backdrop, the irregular funnel shape and steep topography of the site played a key role in the design of The Vista House. The glass entrance to the house features a series of wooden slats designed to maintain privacy in the open living spaces while creating an interplay of shadows throughout the day. As one steps through the entry, the exterior concrete wall extends into the interior and becomes a charming interior feature. From the front, the home appears as a simple one-story structure that gently blends into the surrounding landscape. The cedar ceiling continues into the home's master bedroom, which shares similar views with the main living area. A large sliding glass door provides distant mountain views and direct access to the balcony, allowing for flexibility in both privacy and connectivity between spaces. The BLA Design Group team used predominantly black for the exterior and a combination of wood and beige tones for the interior. "The exterior of the house is integrated into the sloping site, so we wanted the spaces to be light and airy," say BLA's Jerry Liu and Jesse Basran.

The White Arcade in Dubai, designed by D'Ora Tokai Designs, transforms a Spanish-style villa with soft arches, natural materials and layered whites. July 16, 2026 | DESIGN & INTERIORS the WHITE ARCADE words Noah Mercer photos Mia Interior Photography production Karine Monié Tucked into Dubai's leafy The Villa neighbourhood, The White Arcade transforms a traditional Spanish-style residence into a calm family sanctuary defined by light, rhythm and sculptural simplicity. Designed by D'Ora Tokai Designs, the home belongs to an Emirati couple raising three children while navigating demanding international careers. Originally characterised by heavy proportions, decorative detailing and colourful finishes, the villa retained the charm of its Spanish origins but felt visually dense. Instead of erasing that identity, designer D'Ora Tokai reinterpreted it through a quieter architectural language, drawing equally from Moorish geometry and European restraint. "Rather than redesigning the house, we refined its language," she says. The result is an interior where arches, natural materials and carefully filtered daylight create a home that feels calm, sculptural and quietly balanced. ARCHITECTURE IN SOFT CURVES The defining motif is the arch. Present only in a few original openings, it became the starting point for the entire renovation, expanding across doorways, passages, windows and ceiling transitions. Repeated throughout the house, these gentle curves soften the architecture while establishing a calm rhythm that connects every room. "Arches became the heartbeat of the project," Tokai says. "They slow movement and soften the way spaces unfold." At the heart of the home sits a double-height courtyard, reorganised as its emotional and architectural centre. Once sunken and visually disconnected, it has been transformed into a luminous gathering space anchored by a bespoke C-shaped sofa designed by DOT Objects, D'Ora Tokai's furniture collection. Echoing the surrounding arches, the sculptural piece embraces the courtyard rather than occupying it, becoming the first gesture visitors encounter upon entering the house. Above, a glazed roof draws daylight deep into the interior, creating layered views between both floors and allowing family life to unfold naturally around its quiet centre. "We wanted the courtyard to become the emotional centre of the home," she says. A RESTRAINED PALETTE Built around the soft white hues of Pantone's 2026 Colour of the Year, Cloud Dancer, the interiors unfold in layered whites, warm neutrals and soft oak tones. "White isn't an absence of colour," Tokai says. "It's a way of revealing proportion, light and calm." That same restraint extends to the material palette. Light oak herringbone flooring, bespoke white and sage-green joinery, neutral Spanish tiles and brushed brass detailing create a calm visual language, while Carrara marble, travertine, white onyx and softly veined quartz introduce texture without disturbing the overall serenity. Almost every major furniture piece was designed specifically for the project through DOT Objects, from the courtyard sofa to the formal dining table carved from white onyx, the living room seating and the children's bedrooms. Carefully selected pieces from CB2, Crate & Barrel, Vitra and West Elm complement the bespoke elements without competing for attention. The only deliberate departure from the monochrome palette appears in the preparation kitchen, where muted sage-green cabinetry introduces a subtle sense of play. A circular internal window connects adjoining spaces, bringing both practicality and a gentle moment of surprise into the otherwise restrained architecture. Rather than simply renovating a Spanish villa, The White Arcade reimagines it through a softer architectural lens. Blending Mediterranean, Moorish and European influences, D'Ora Tokai has created a home that feels restorative in every sense. "A well-designed home should quietly support everyday life," she says. "When a house brings clarity, families naturally feel more connected."

Mayıs 2022 | İnsan | Türkiye YAĞIZ ACAR “Agartha’da Kapadokya’nın hikâyesinden kesitler var” Yazı | Timur Can Ersoy K apadokya bu yaz da farklı deneyimleri içinde barındıran festivallere ev sahipliği yapacak. Onlar arasında en popüler ve biletleri tamamen tükenen festival Echoes From Agartha. 29 haziran - 4 temmuz tarihleri arasında düzenlenecek olan festivali kardeşi Yalım’la beraber organize eden Yağız Acar, Agartha’nın hikâyesini anlatıyor. Echoes from Agartha’yı Nevşehir’de yapmanın sebebi nedir? Agartha’nın hikâyesi pandemiyle başladı. Pandeminin en yoğun yaşandığı, aynı zamanda Los Angeles’ta Floyd protestolarının olduğu dönemde üç yıl aradan sonra Türkiye’ye uçmaya karar verdim. Bu gelişim diğerlerinden çok farklıydı. Bu sefer iş stresi olmadan pandeminin durdurduğu dünyada keşif dolu bir yolculuk bekliyordu beni. Yaklaşık 12 yıl aradan sonra Türkiye’de uzun bir süre geçirdim ve bu inanılmaz coğrafyayı Nemrut’tan Mardin’e, Ege’den Akdeniz’e karış karış gezdim. Bu durakların sonuncusu Kapadokya’ydı. Buraya geldiğimde iç sesim bana çok heyecanlı bir şekilde fısıldadı, “Burası inanılmaz bir yer, Yağız burada hemen bir festival yap!” Kapadokya’daki festivali kurgularken nelerden ilham aldın? Mitoloji ve mistisizmden beslenir, tarihten ilham alırım. Kapadokya’daki hikâye tek başına zaten çok güçlü. Burası tarih boyunca Anadolu’nun ilk medeniyetlerinin hep merkezinde olmuş. Echoes From Agartha’da bu hikâyelerin hepsinden birer kesit veriyoruz. Bölge tarihinin ve kültürünün merkezde olduğu bir deneyim sunuyoruz. Bu organizasyonu planlarken hedeflediğin kitleye ulaşabildin mi? İlk yıldan itibaren bir anda global bir işe döndü Agartha. İstatistikler internet sitemizin günde dört binden fazla tıklama aldığını gösteriyor ve bilet satışları dünyanın her bir köşesinden geliyor. Bu yıl yine çok kozmopolit bir kitle ağırlayacağız. GERÇEKLİK İÇİNDE BİR RÜYA Özel parti ve etkinlikler düzenliyorsun. Yaptığın işi tam olarak nasıl özetlersin? Deneyim satıyoruz, gerçeklik içinde bir rüya. Elbette buralara kulüplerin dans pistlerini aşındırarak geldim. Kendimi bildim bileli hep müziğin içindeydim. Bizimkiler evde inanılmaz artistlerin albümlerini çalardı. Aile evim hep bir kulüp havasındaydı. Pink Floyd, Depeche Mode, Genesis’le yatıp kalkardık. O yaşta bu derecede iyi müziğe maruz kalmak insanı başka bir yöne doğru itiyor. Şimdiki jenerasyonun eğlence anlayışını nasıl buluyorsun? Artık iş kulüplerden çok farklı destinasyonlara kaydı. Aynı zamanda sadece müziğin merkezde olduğu değil; sanat, kültür ve destinasyonun ortasında dönen deneyimlere doğru bir trend izliyoruz. Yeni jenerasyon içinde biraz maceranın olduğu, yeni kültürler tanıyıp yeni şehirler deneyimleyeceği etkinlikler arıyor. Bu çok doğru bir anlayış, çünkü tüm duyulara hitap ediyorsun. Los Angeles’ta ne tarz organizasyonlar düzenliyorsun? Los Angeles’ta daha çok urban etkinlikler yapıyoruz. Bu kış son konseptimiz Club Gate’i hayata geçirdik. Club Gate konsepti aslında ayda bir ortaya çıkan pop-up bir kulüp. Farklı lokasyonlarda gerçek bir kulüp inşa ettik, ama sadece bir gece için…

Ocak 2021 | Seyahat | Türkiye Get Away Duo: Arda ve Sarper A rda Önen: Bodrum’un 21 yıllık ikonik mekanı Sail Loft’un sahibi. Sarper Sesli: 12 yıldır Güney Afrika’da yaşayan, turizm şirketi Ride The Earth ile dünyanın dört bir yanına motosiklet turları düzenleyen bir maceracı gezgin. Bu iki doğa tutkunu yakın dost pandemi döneminde yollara düştü, Anadolu’yu gezmeye başladılar. Bir süre sonra da maceralarına herkesi ortak etmek için “Get Away Duo Project”i yarattılar. Gerisi Arda Önen’in ağzından… Pandemi olmasaydı bu yollara düşme projesi ortaya çıkar mıydı? Aslında iki yıl önce de Kars’a arabayla gitme fikrim vardı. Ancak pandemi öncesi meğer hayat çok hızlıymış! Zaman yaratamadım. O plan rafa kalktı. Yaz başında İsmail Polat’la şu an yaşadığımız kapanmaları öngörmüş ve bu yol projesini çalışmaya başlamıştık zaten. Mekanlarımın kapalı olması da bir fırsat yaratmış oldu. Hemen planlar yapıldı, araçlar yüklendi ve teker döndü. Bu yol maceralarında ikinizle gezmek isteyenlere vaat ettikleriniz neler? Farkınız ne? İlk başta kendimiz gezelim diye plan yaptık. Hazırlık aşamasında konudan bahsettiğimiz arkadaşlarımız, “Biz de geliriz, evde olmaktan yorulduk” gibi yorumlar yapınca proje biraz değişti. Bu noktada etkinlikler ekledik. Yeme-içme ile ilgili sürprizler hazırladık. Mesela umulmadık bir yerde, doğanın ortasında, iyi bir şefin yaptığı yemeklerle bir öğle yemeği yemek. Ya da arabadan gitarını çıkartıp ateş başında küçük bir dinleti yapmak gibi... Sarper bu maceradaki yol ortağın. Onunla nasıl keşişti yolun? Sarper çocukluk arkadaşım. Beraber çok seyahatimiz oldu. Araba ya da motosikletle. Güney Afrika’da yaşıyor ve dünyanın dört bir yanına macera seyahatleri düzenliyor. Pandemi kaynaklı ertelemelerden dolayı Türkiye’de kaldı. Bu konularda tecrübeli olduğu ve çok iyi anlaştığımız için harika bir ortaklık oldu. Hatta şunu da eklemeliyim. Sarper olduğu için projeyi biraz değiştirip geliştiriyoruz. Yeni bir instagram hesabı ile önümüzdeki günlerde duyuracağız. Çok heyecanlıyız… Şu anda belli olan hangi rotalar var? Kars - Çıldır (25-29 Ocak) Kapadokya - Aladağlar (Şubatta) Ovit Dağı (Şubatta) Pandemiyle beraber karayolu cazip hale geldi. Araçla gitmenin avantajı ve dezavantajları neler? Araba yolculuğunu sevenler için avantajlar oldukça çok! En önemlisi kendi araçlarıyla gelenler, kendi grubuyla oluyor. Sosyal mesafe için çok rahatlatıcı bir durum. Soğuk destinasyonlara gittiğimiz için rahatça ve bolca kalın kıyafet, bot, fotoğraf makinesi gibi malzemeleri arabalara alabiliyorsunuz. İstenildigi yerde kısa molalar verebiliyoruz. Aracımızda minik bir mutfak olduğundan istediğimiz yerde durup bir şeyler hazırlayabiliyoruz. Hangi aracı kullanıyorsun? Biz yola donanımlı yüksek bir 4x4 ile çıktık. Bir yere batıp kalırsa kendini kurtaracak vinci var. Çünkü biz seyahatlerden önce kendimizi keşfe gidiyoruz. Tepelere çıkıyoruz, karlı dar yollara giriyoruz. Ama günün sonunda bizimle gelecekler için en güvenli yolu seçip programa koyuyoruz. Kars programı heyecan verici. Oraya gelenleri neler bekliyor? Kars bizi de çok heyecanlandırıyor. Tabii ki Çıldır Gölü’nün üzerinde harika zaman geçireceğiz. Tanınmış bir şef yanımızda olacak. Hava şartları iyi olursa güzel bir trekking planımız var. Bunun dışında tabii ki Ani Harabeleri olmazsa olmaz! Rus Çarlığı’ndan kalma yapıları göreceğiz.

Bureau 80/88 designed this 330-square-meter minimalist home near Moscow around mature trees, panoramic forest views, and family life. December 2024 | DESIGN & INTERIORS TURKISH BELOW NATURE-FRAMED LIVING words Elena Grabar photos Olga Melekestseva styling Ekaterina Naumova This 330-square-meter, two-story minimalist home, nestled in a cottage community near Moscow, was designed by the Bureau 80/88 for a family of three—plus their two dogs and a cat—seeking a permanent residence. Architects Nikita Sergienko and Anton Savelyev developed the architectural concept, while Ana Sergienko curated the interiors. The home's complex geometry was thoughtfully shaped to preserve the property’s mature, beautiful trees. Ana emphasizes the importance of aligning the interior with the surrounding landscape's seasonal transformations. In winter, the home exudes a serene elegance; in summer, it bursts to life with vibrant colors. To capture this dynamic interplay, the designers staged photo shoots in both autumn and winter. OPEN LIVING WITH A VIEW The first floor features an open-concept living, dining, and kitchen area. A striking double-height foyer with a stained-glass window provides views of both the living space below and the second-floor landing, designed as an art gallery. Expansive panoramic windows frame breathtaking views of the surrounding forest. Upstairs, the second floor houses the bedrooms, bathrooms, and a terrace lounge perfect for watching sunsets. EMBRACING COMFORT A key request from the homeowners was for a fireplace. "We incorporated two fireplaces as per their request," Ana explains. One is an outdoor model, while the other—a suspended fireplace in the living room—appears to float, preserving the view and enhancing the minimalist aesthetic. A PALETTE OF SERENITY The minimalist interior design is defined by a soft white color palette, complemented by warm wood accents and the cool tones of microcement flooring. This harmonious combination creates a tranquil and cohesive atmosphere. Seamless DBSG microcement flooring connects the spaces on the first floor and continues into the master suite, blending effortlessly into the bathroom and walk-in closet for a smooth, unified flow. THOUGHTFUL FURNISHINGS "We crafted visuals with carefully selected furniture," Ana shares. The homeowners loved the designs and chose the exact pieces showcased in the project. A Desiree armchair in the living room has become a family favorite, while the kitchen island serves as a central gathering spot for meals and conversation. WEB / https://ab8088.ru/en MİNİMALİST VE DOĞAYLA İÇ İÇE Moskova yakınlarındaki bu iki katlı minimalist evin tasarımı Bureau 80/88’e ait. Mimarlar Nikita Sergienko ve Anton Savelyev mimari konsepte öncülük ederken, Ana Sergienko da iç mekanların küratörlüğünü üstlenmiş. Evin karmaşık geometrisi, arazinin görkemli ağaçlarını korumak için dikkatlice şekillendirilmiş. Ana, iç mekanı sürekli değişen manzara ile uyumlu hale getirmenin önemini vurguluyor. Ev kışın dingin bir zarafet yayıyor, yazın ise renklerle beraber canlanıyor. MANZARALI AÇIK YAŞAM Evin birinci katında açık konseptli bir oturma, yemek ve mutfak alanı bulunuyor. Etkileyici vitray penceresiyle çift yükseklikteki fuaye, aşağıdaki yaşam alanının ve bir sanat galerisi olarak tasarlanan ikinci kat sahanlığının manzarasını sunuyor. Geniş panoramik pencereler muhteşem orman manzaraları sunarken, ikinci katta yatak odaları, banyolar ve gün batımını izlemek için bir teras salonu yer alıyor. KUCAKLAYAN KONFOR Ev sahiplerinden gelen en önemli taleplerden biri de şömineydi. Ana, “Ev sahiplerinin isteği üzerine iki şömineyi bir araya getirdik” diyor, “Biri açık hava modeli, asma oturma odası şöminesi ise manzarayı koruyarak yüzer gibi görünüyor” . DİNGİN BİR PALET Minimalist iç mekan, mikro çimento zemin kaplamasının soğuk tonlarıyla kontrast oluşturan yumuşak ahşap vurgularla birleştirilerek uyumlu ve sakin bir atmosfer yaratılmış. Kusursuz DBSG mikro çimento döşeme, birinci kattaki alanları birbirine bağlıyor ve ana süite kadar uzanıyor. “Özenle seçilmiş mobilyalarla köşeler geliştirdik” diye paylaşıyor Ana. Ev sahipleri tasarımları çok beğenip projede yer alan tüm parçaları seçmişler. Nitekim oturma odasındaki Desiree koltuk ailenin favorisi haline gelmiş. WEB / https://ab8088.ru/en

Artemest founders Marco Credendino and Ippolita Rostagno discuss Italian craft, digital curation, and L’Appartamento at Milan Design Week 2025. November 7, 2025 | DESIGN & INTERIORS MARCO & IPPOLITA: the VISIONARIES BEHIND ARTEMEST words Onur Basturk photos Tomaso Lisca and Luca Argenton (L’Appartamento) Shaping a global home for Italian craft and contemporary design. L’Appartamento by Artemest was undoubtedly one of the standout projects at Milan Design Week 2025. Curated within Palazzo Donizetti, the exhibition was filled with such memorable pieces that I vividly recall getting lost among the colors and textures, examining each one in detail. Every corner of Palazzo Donizetti seemed to tell its own unique story—which, after all, is what we appreciate the most, isn't it? It's the narrative that emerges when great design pieces come together. This curiosity led me directly to Artemest founders Marco Credendino and Ippolita Rostagno—I truly wanted to understand the vision behind Artemest. A DIGITAL STAGE FOR ITALIAN CRAFT You founded Artemest in 2015 with the mission of introducing Italian craftsmanship to a global audience. Could you share why you opted for a digital approach? Italian craftsmanship is celebrated worldwide for its beauty and centuries-old traditions. Yet, much of it remained hidden away in remote locations and small ateliers, often inaccessible to international connoisseurs and interior design studios unless they traveled directly to Italy. When we founded Artemest, our goal was to share these artisan stories and their unique creations with a broader audience—and what better way than through a digital platform? Beyond simply showcasing products, we tell their stories, provide videos of how pieces are crafted, and offer narrative context for each object. Your journeys across Italy are central to Artemest’s identity. Have there been any unforgettable encounters during these trips? Absolutely, these journeys are the most enriching part of our endeavor. One particularly meaningful encounter occurred at the very beginning of Artemest's journey, while the idea was still taking shape. I met Simone and Francesca from Bronzetto, a Florentine atelier specializing in artistic brasswork. Their Wormhole floor lamp became one of the first products we ever featured. This encounter still embodies the collaborative spirit at the heart of everything we do. SELECTING THE MASTERS What are your criteria when selecting artisans? We seek fundamental elements such as excellence in craftsmanship, a deep connection to local heritage, a desire for innovation, and a collaborative spirit. It’s a deeply human process. We’re not merely showcasing objects; we’re building a community. And when selecting pieces, what elements do you prioritize—craftsmanship, storytelling, innovation, or a combination of all three? All three elements are essential. Craftsmanship is the foundation—it must be impeccable. But we also look for pieces that carry a narrative, where the technique, material, or form connects to a region, a history, or a cultural theme. Innovation brings relevance, ensuring that the objects we present are not just rooted in the past but also meaningful in today’s design landscape and trends. SUSTAINING HERITAGE How do values like sustainability and cultural heritage shape your relationships with artisans? How do you maintain traditions while embracing innovation? For us, sustainability means cultural and artistic sustainability—preserving centuries-old knowledge and ensuring these crafts continue to thrive for future generations. We view ourselves both as guardians and facilitators, honoring the past while ensuring relevance today. Innovation doesn’t replace tradition; instead, it provides new purpose and meaning within the contemporary world. DESIGN COMES ALIVE AT PALAZZO DONIZETTI L’Appartamento by Artemest at Palazzo Donizetti during Milan Design Week 2025 garnered significant attention. What was the concept behind the project? For Milan Design Week 2025, celebrating our 10th anniversary, we presented the third edition of L’Appartamento by Artemest—a project close to our hearts, born from our passion to showcase how craftsmanship and design exist in real-life spaces. The exhibition was a showhouse celebrating the timeless allure of Italian craftsmanship and design through the lens of internationally renowned designers. This year we collaborated with 1508 London, Champalimaud Design, Meyer Davis, Nebras Aljoaib, Romanek Design Studio, and Simone Haag, each transforming different rooms within the palazzo. They featured furniture, lighting, home décor, and art pieces curated from 180 of Italy’s finest artisans, brands, and artists. Visitors described the experience as profoundly emotional, noting how each space told a unique story and evoked a powerful sense of place, culture, and timelessness. Will these physical experiences continue? How do you see them evolving alongside your digital platform? Absolutely! These physical experiences are not a departure from our digital roots but an extension of them. While our digital platform provides broad reach and scale, physical projects add depth and atmosphere to our storytelling. We want visitors to experience the artisans we represent firsthand, engaging emotionally and physically with spaces rich in stories. LEARNING FROM CRAFT Ippolita, what was the most impactful moment in your creative journey, and how did it shape Artemest's philosophy? My most formative experience was studying sculpture and ceramics for five years at the Istituto d'Arte in Florence. The focus was deeply rooted in craftsmanship, and my greatest lesson was that there are no shortcuts—you must invest countless hours, months, and even years to genuinely master your craft. The intimacy, solitude, and physical intensity of artistic practice instill a unique fearlessness. My profound gratitude for this knowledge inspired me to establish Artemest, ensuring the transfer of these valuable Italian artisan skills to younger generations. With your background in modern dance, do you see a connection between movement and design? Dance teaches essential design elements—flow, form, and emotion. It provided me with an intuitive understanding of how space and objects interact with the body. To me, design is choreography in three dimensions, with every piece meant to move and communicate within its environment. BEYOND E-COMMERCE Marco, coming from a digital entrepreneurship background, how did you approach building a platform highlighting craftsmanship’s tactile, nuanced qualities? It was challenging yet exhilarating! From the outset, we knew Artemest couldn't operate as a conventional e-commerce site. We had to approach it as curators and storytellers. Our goal was to translate touch into visuals and heritage into text—to essentially make the intangible tangible. We focused heavily on photography, editorial content, and immersive design experiences, creating digital windows into the artisan world through studio visits, interviews, and behind-the-scenes footage. Our mission was always to build trust, emotional connections, and desire in a digital space without losing the essence of exceptional Italian craftsmanship and design. for more Print VOL XVI - AEGEAN & MEDITERRANEAN 2025 Out of Stock Add to Cart

Eylül 2021 | Seyahat | Türkiye Mars’ta bir otel odasında kalıyormuş gibi AKANA Yazı | Alp Tekin Bu yazın sürpriz otellerinden biri oldu Bodrum Cennet Koyu tarafındaki Akana. Sezonu hayli geç, temmuzun ikinci haftasında açmasına rağmen Akana sezonu hızlı yakaladı ve özellikle ağustos sonundaki plaj partileriyle adından söz ettirdi. Akana’nın dikkat çeken özelliklerinden biri de kuşkusuz otelin tasarımıydı. Yuvarlak otel odaları Bodrum’da alışık olunan bir şey değil. Bu yüzden Akana’nın odaları kısa sürede ilgi çekti. Mars’ta bir otel odasında kalıyormuş hissi veren Akana’nın gri tonu baskın odalarının mimarisi CDW (Contemporary Design Works) tarafından yapılmış. Otelin yatırımcısı Çağdaş Holding bünyesindeki CDW ekibi Akana’nın nasıl oluştuğunu şöyle anlatıyor: “Dış mimaride parça-bütün ilişkisini temel aldık. İklimin canlılığı, doğal dokunun ihtişamı ve tarihin derinliğini dengeli bir şekilde harmanlamayı hedefledik. Ahşap, hasır ve doğal kumaşların ön planda olduğu bohem stili, çağdaş ve minimal bir lüks anlayışı ile birleştirdik. Odalarda ve otel genelinde ise hologram efektli ışıklandırma kullandık. Bu da Akana’yı taçlandıran konseptin gizemli bir parçası oldu. Kısacası Akana, misafirlerin hayatın tüm renklerini seyrederken, kendilerini dinleyebilmek, daha dingin bir an yakalayabilmek ve yenilenmek için aradıkları her şeyi bulacakları bir ‘içe dönme oteli’ olarak konumlanmış oldu”.

EcoHotel El Agua is a holistic retreat in Tenerife founded by Anthony Picq, combining sustainable design, preventive medicine, and plant-based dining. February 2025 | VOL 14 HOLISTIC STAY words Alp Tekin The sun of the Canary Islands casts dreamy shadows over the palm-lined Arico Valley on the southeastern coast of Tenerife. A warm breeze rustles through the lush lavender, rosemary, and cypress bushes, filling the air with a delightful aroma. There’s hardly a soul in sight—just a cluster of traditional houses surrounding EcoHotel El Agua. Nestled among expansive olive groves, EcoHotel El Agua is a stylish blend of design, integrative medicine, and sustainability. From the epigenetic test you take right when you arrive to the Wim Hof exercises before breakfast, everything is designed with a holistic touch. The hotel’s founder, Anthony Picq, has carefully restored a 200-year-old abandoned stone farmhouse and transformed the dry land into a lush oasis filled with olive, lemon, banana, and palm trees. With a passion for Hippocratic medicine, phytotherapy, and naturopathy, Anthony has also created a fantastic menu of treatments and programs for guests to enjoy during their stay. Anthony, how did you decide to create EcoHotel? What was your goal in building the hotel? More than a goal, creating EcoHotel is a mission for me. It's rooted in the philosophy of preventive medicine inspired by Hippocrates. My goal is to promote sustainability and holistic health in a space that reflects the principles of wabi-sabi, an aesthetic that celebrates beauty in imperfection. This hotel is designed to nurture both the environment and the well-being of our guests, creating a harmonious experience that aligns with these values. In our design process, we prioritized sustainability, ensuring that all materials and techniques are eco-friendly and in harmony with the surrounding environment. We also focused on creating versatile spaces that promote well-being and relaxation, allowing guests to immerse themselves in nature. The design embodies a wabi-sabi aesthetic that celebrates natural imperfection and fosters a sense of peace. Ultimately, our goal was to create a space that not only looks beautiful, but also supports the holistic lifestyle we advocate. You describe EcoHotel as “not just a hotel, but a search for a holistic way of life”. Could you elaborate on that? What is a holistic lifestyle, and what exactly do you promise your guests? When I say, "It's not a hotel, it's a search for a holistic way of life," I mean that EcoHotel transcends traditional hospitality. A holistic lifestyle encompasses a balanced approach to well-being, integrating physical, mental, and emotional health. It recognizes the intricate connections between our environment, our health, and our overall quality of life. At EcoHotel, we promise our guests an immersive experience that fosters this holistic way of living. This includes wellness programs that promote preventative medicine, sustainable practices that honor the planet, and soothing design inspired by Wabi-Sabi, which encourages mindfulness and appreciation of life’s imperfections. Our goal is to create an environment where guests can rejuvenate, reconnect with nature, and cultivate a deeper understanding of what it means to live in harmony. Through workshops, healthy dining options, and nature-inspired activities, we aim to empower our guests to embrace this holistic philosophy long after their stay. The food experience at the hotel is also noteworthy. Guests can choose between vegan, raw vegan, or vegetarian cuisine, all served in a unique cave setting. Can you provide more details about this dining experience? Yes, that's correct! At EcoHotel, we provide a unique food experience that emphasizes a farm-to-table philosophy, utilizing organic, seasonal, and locally sourced products. Our Ecochef, Kalo, is a true culinary artist, crafting what we define as healthy and delicious gastronomy. Guests can choose from vegan, raw vegan, or vegetarian cuisine, all thoughtfully prepared to highlight the flavors and nutritional benefits of the ingredients. Meals are served in a mystical cave setting, surrounded by the lush greenery of the tropical forest and complemented by a serene swimming pool with crystal-clear blue water. This transcendent dining experience is enhanced by a tranquil atmosphere, free from electromagnetic waves—only the gentle breeze and the serene silence of nature accompany you during your meal. Hotels like the EcoHotel, which are ecologically conscious and also serve as retreats, are on the rise. What changes do you foresee in the accommodation industry in the near future? The rise of eco-conscious hotels like EcoHotel reflects a broader shift in the accommodation industry toward retreats that prioritize well-being and a connection to nature. In the near future, I anticipate a growing demand for disruptive offerings that provide healing spaces where guests can truly connect, disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, and regenerate both body and soul. Travelers are increasingly seeking accommodations that offer beautiful architecture, healthy food options, and opportunities to learn about sustainable and healthy habits. This shift is moving away from the conventional all-inclusive resorts that often dominate the tourism landscape. While all types of tourism can coexist and share the market, there has been an extraordinary need over the past four years for new spaces that allow people to spend days immersed in therapies, enjoying good vibes and surrounded by exquisite gardens and natural beauty. I believe this trend will continue to grow as more travelers prioritize experiences that promote wellness, sustainability and a deeper connection to the environment during their stays. for more Print VOL XIV - 2024 / 25 €20,00 Price Add to Cart