December 2023 | Art & Culture | Vol 11 SHIZU SALDAMANDO Punk music has shaped my identity words Leon Williams + Onur Baştürk Walking through an art gallery with Shizu Saldamando’s works is almost synonymous with going to a concert with her or meeting all the people in her circle of friends. The daughter of a ‘Chicano’ father and a Japanese American mother, Shizu Saldamando was born in San Francisco and has been living and working in Los Angeles for a long time. Saldamando, who is represented by Charlie James Gallery, experiments with a variety of surfaces and materials, from wood panels to bed linen, as well as portraits and drawings. And Shizu will be exhibiting her work in the “Nova” section of this year’s Art Basel Miami. MOST PEOPLE EXPRESS THEIR EMOTIONS THROUGH THEIR FACES First of all, I have to say: I love your portraits! So why did you choose to focus on portraiture? At a young age I was always looking for relatable images or images from television, visual art, music etc that I could relate to and didn’t find much especially being from a Mexican American and Japanese American identity. So when I could start drawing and doing art I always depicted faces, friends and family. I was also highly influenced by the “Chicano Art Movement” and other activist art movements and political posters, a highly figurative practice to educate and create society. What aspects of people’s faces seem interesting to you? Maybe the inner psychology and emotions of people. Because most people express their emotions through their faces. I was raised to be very stoic and to not show much emotion so maybe I focus on faces that might be harder to read. But I always try to include the names and identities of the people I depict so you can get a larger perspective about who they are and why I chose to paint them. What motivates you to make a portrait of a person? I mostly paint people I really admire for one reason or another, whether it is their creative practice, the music they are interested in, their love for others or even just their fashion choices. I really like to share images of people who deny certain ideas of respectability politics and reject ideas of assimilation and who just really embrace their own uniqueness. I am now making more paintings of my artist friends who share similar views on art, identity and politics. However, when I was younger, I also painted queer punks and goths. PUNK HAS ALWAYS HAD A BIG INFLUENCE ON MY IDENTITY How have your portraits changed over the years? For example, do you still take photos of people at parties or concerts and then make portraits of them? Yes, now that I am a mother and older I don’t have the energy to go out dancing to goth clubs, or punk shows. And I find now that the portraits become much more calculated in that I need to reach out to people and ask them to come over to my backyard studio and take a photo for a portrait. I do more portraits of older artists as well because these are now the people I find myself spending more time with and seeing them at the art exhibitions I frequent. Are there people from a certain culture (or we can call it a subculture) in your portraits? Is this a conscious choice? Yes, punk music has always had a big influence on my identity and on my friends that I grew up with in San Francisco and the Bay Area. I grew up in the Mission district of San Francisco in the 80s and 90s, and there were punk music venues and a large D.I.Y. community. Things have changed a lot since then, but there is still a well-established activist movement there. How did being born and raised in San Francisco and currently living in Los Angeles affect your artwork? Or how does it continue to impress? Growing up influenced by so many community art centers in my birth neighborhood really solidified my interest in finding the same kind of community when I moved to L.A. to attend UCLA’s art school. I found that in the city of East L.A. which was the birthplace of Self-Help Graphics and Art, one of the most renowned Chicano Art centers in the country. I worked there while a student and saw many punk bands perform there and met so many incredible artists there too. When people think of Los Angeles they think of Hollywood and a shallow homogenous city of people who work in that industry. Los Angeles has a huge population of Mexican Americans who have shaped the culture of the city but who are continually erased from history and media. I think this is a huge reason I choose to depict my community as an active stance against this erasure. Which artworks of yours will we see at Art Basel Miami? I am showing a mix of oil paintings on wood of friends and community members. I am showing a portrait of one of my artist mentors Yreina D. Cervantez who is a renowned Chicano professor, fine artist and muralist. I am also showing a portrait of fellow punk scenester Prisca Rios who manages a really great brunch restaurant (Yang’s Kitchen) in Alhambra. I shot a photo of them in his GSM (hardcore punk band from Japan) shirt. I’m showing a portrait Pony Lee Musgrave who runs their chain of LGBTQ hair salons called Folkore Salon in LA. I am also currently working on a portrait of Photographer Cayla Willie who is Floridian Native from the Miccosukee Tribe who I met while I attended of the Fountainhead Arts Residency in Miami. Shizu Saldamando’nun eserlerinin yer aldığı bir sanat galerisinde dolaşmak, onunla beraber bir konsere gitmek ya da arkadaş çevresindeki tüm insanlarla tanışmakla neredeyse eş anlamlı! ‘Chicano’ bir baba ile Japon Amerikalı bir annenin kızı olan Shizu Saldamando, San Francisco doğumlu ve uzun süredir Los Angeles’ta yaşayıp orada üretiyor. Charlie James Gallery tarafından temsil edilen Saldamando, portre ve çizimlerinin yanı sıra ahşap panellerden yatak çarşaflarına kadar çeşitli yüzey ve malzemelerle denemeler yapıyor. Ve Shizu, bu yılki Art Basel Miami’nin “Nova” bölümünde yeni işlerini sergileyecek. ÇOĞU INSAN DUYGULARINI YÜZLERİYLE İFADE EDIYOR Neden portre? İnsanların yüzleri hangi yönüyle size ilginç geliyor? Gençken televizyonda, görsel sanatlarda ve müzikte Meksikalı Amerikalı ve Japon Amerikalı kimlikleriyle ilişkili görseller arıyor ama pek bir şey bulamıyordum. Bu yüzden çizmeye başladığımda önce arkadaşlarım ve ailemin yüzlerinden başladım. Ayrıca “Chicano Sanat Hareketi” ve diğer aktivist sanat hareketleriyle, toplumu eğitmek ve yaratmak için oldukça figüratif bir uygulama olan siyasi posterlerden oldukça etkilendim. İnsanların yüzleri hangi yönleriyle size ilginç geliyor? Sanırım insanların psikolojisi ve iç dünyası nedeniyle. Çünkü çoğu insan duygularını yüzleri aracılığıyla ifade ediyor. Duygusunu çok fazla göstermeyecek şekilde yetiştirildim. Bu nedenle belki de okunması daha zor olabilecek yüzlere odaklanıyorum. Ama her zaman resmini yaptığım insanların isim ve kimliklerini dahil etmeye çalışıyorum. Böylece onların kim olduğu ve neden onları resmetmeyi seçtiğime dair geniş bir bakış açısına sahip olunuyor. Bir insanın portresini yapmaya sizi iten motivasyon nedir? Hayranlık mı yoksa başka bir duygu mu? Kendi yaratıcı pratikleri, ilgilendikleri müzik, başkalarına duydukları sevgi ve hatta sadece moda seçimleri nedeniyle, yani şu ya da bu nedenle gerçekten hayran olduğum insanların resmini yapıyorum. ‘Respectability politics’ ve asimilasyona ilişkin fikirleri reddeden, kendi benzersizliğini benimsemiş insanların resimlerini paylaşmayı gerçekten seviyorum. Artık sanat, kimlik ve politika konusunda benzer görüşleri paylaşan sanatçı arkadaşlarımın resimlerini daha fazla yapıyorum. Ancak daha gençken queer punk’ları, gotikleri de resmettim. PUNK MÜZİK KİMLİĞİM ÜZERİNDE BÜYÜK ETKİYE SAHİP Portreleriniz yıllar içinde nasıl değişti? Mesela hâlâ parti ya da konserlerde insanların fotoğraflarını çekip sonra portrelerini yapıyor musunuz? Artık büyüdüğüm ve bir anne olduğum için gotik kulüplerde ya da punk konserlerde dans edecek enerjim yok. İnsanları arka bahçemdeki stüdyoma davet edip portreleri için fotoğraf çekmem gerektiğinden, portrelerin çok daha hesaplı hale geldiğini görüyorum. Yaşlı sanatçıların portrelerini daha fazla yapıyorum. Çünkü onlar artık daha çok vakit geçirdiğim insanlar… Portrelerinizde belli bir kültürden (ya da alt kültür diyebiliriz) insanların oluşu bilinçli bir tercih mi? Evet, punk müzik hem benim kimliğim hem de San Francisco ile Bay Area’da birlikte büyüdüğüm arkadaşlarım üzerinde her zaman büyük bir etkiye sahip oldu. 80’ler ve 90’larda San Francisco’nun Mission bölgesinde büyüdüm ve orada punk müzik mekanları ve geniş bir D.I.Y topluluğu vardı. O zamandan bu yana işler çok değişti, ama orada hâlâ köklü bir aktivist hareketi var. San Francisco’da doğup büyümek ve şu anda Los Angeles’ta yaşıyor olmak sanat çalışmalarınızı nasıl etkiledi? Doğduğum mahalledeki toplulukların sanat merkezinden etkilenerek büyüdüğüm için UCLA’nın sanat okulu nedeniyle Los Angeles’a taşındığımda aynı türde bir topluluk bulmak istedim. Böylece kendimi ülkedeki en ünlü Chicano sanat merkezlerinden biri olan East L.A.’de buldum. Öğrenciyken orada çalıştım ve birçok punk grubunun orada performans sergilediğini gördüm. Pek çok inanılmaz sanatçıyla tanıştım. İnsanlar Los Angeles’ı Hollywood nedeniyle homojen bir şehir sanıyor. Oysa Los Angeles, şehrin kültürünü şekillendiren ancak tarihten ve medyadan sürekli olarak silinen büyük bir Meksikalı Amerikalı nüfusa sahip. Topluluğumu bu silinmeye karşı aktif bir duruş olarak tasvir etmeyi seçmemin en büyük nedeninin bu olduğunu düşünüyorum! Art Basel Miami’da hangi sanat çalışmalarınızı göreceğiz? Arkadaşlarım ve topluluk üyelerimin ahşap üzerine yağlı boya tablolarının bir karışımını gösteriyorum. Mesela ünlü bir Chicano profesörü ve muralist olan Yreina D. Cervantez’in portresini. Ayrıca Alhambra’da nefis bir restoran (Yang’s Kitchen) işleten Prisca Rios’un, Japonya’dan hardcore punk grubu GSM’in ve Los Angeles’ta Folkore Salon adlı LGBTQ kuaför salonları zincirini işleten Pony Lee Musgrave’nin portresini… Aynı zamanda Miami’deki Fountainhead Arts Residency’ye katılırken tanıştığım, Miccosukee Kabilesi’nden fotoğrafçı Cayla Willie’nin de portresi üzerinde çalışıyorum. for more Print VOL XI - 2023 / 24 Out of Stock Add to Cart

January 2023 | VOL VIII Design & Interiors below english OLAĞANÜSTÜ İKİ HAWAII EVİ yazı Alp Tekin fotoğraflar Darren Bradley K aliforniya ve Hawaii merkezli mimarlık ofisi Craig Steely Architecture’ın yaptığı olağanüstü iki yeni proje yuzu’nun favorileri arasında: Musubi House ve D Fin House. Craig Steely’nin tüm projeleri Kaliforniya ve Hawaii’deki doğanın gerçekle rüya arasında gidip gelen birer melezi olarak tanımlanıyor. Çünkü Craig Steely, hem doğanın gerçeklerini kucaklamayı önemsediğini belirtiyor hem de kendi bağlamında kök salmış tekil bir mimari geliştirmeye odaklanıyor. MUSUBI HOUSE Musubi House, Hawaii’deki Mauna Kea yanardağının kuzeydoğu yamacıyla Ohia ormanında arasında yer alan muhteşem bir konuma sahip. Ev sahipleri Hamakua sahilinin rüzgârlı doğasını kucaklayan bir ev hayal ettikleri için mimarlık ofisi projenin tüm hikâyesini bu hayal üzerinden kurgulamış. Sonuçta ortaya okyanusta yüzen bir gemi gibi duran, ama okyanus yerine çimenlerin dalgalı zemininde seyrini sürdüren bu ev çıkmış! Musubi House, Japon yemeği “onigiri”nin Hawaii versiyonu olan musubi’den ismini alıyor. Evin bu ismi alışı tamamen doğaçlama: İnşaat sırasında marangozlar proje planının musubi’ye çok benzediğini söylüyor. Daha sonra herkes projeye bu isimle seslenmeye başlayınca evin ismi de öyle kalıyor. Konumu dolayısıyla sert rüzgâr ve yağmura sürekli maruz kalan evin inşaat süreci hayli zor ve karmaşık gerçekleşmiş. Evin proje planını ise şöyle tarif etmek mümkün: Elmas şeklindeki çatıyı destekleyen bir iç mekan üçgeni ve onun içinde yer alan bir dış mekan üçgeni. İç mekan üçgeni, üç kısa kıvrımlı beton duvardan oluşuyor. Merkezdeki üçgen şeklindeki atrium ise Pahoehoe lavlarından üretilmiş bir zemine sahip. Ev sahiplerinin mahremiyete öncelik verme konusundaki isteği, Craig Steely mimarlık ofisi ekibine kapıları ve katı sınırları olmayan bir plan oluşturma özgürlüğünü sağlamış. Bu nedenle evin tüm alanları panoramik manzarayla görsel temas halinde. Çim zeminden tavana ve cam duvarların kenarına kadar manzaranın kesintisiz akışı gerçekten şahane! D FIN HOUSE D Fin House, Büyük Hawaii Adası’ndaki Kealakekua Körfezi’nin yukarısında, Kaptan Cook’un yakınında yer alıyor. D Fin House’un mimarisi oldukça güçlü ve artistik bir hareketle başlıyor: Manzara içinde yüzen ekstrüde bir daire. Üstelik tüm yapı bu formun gücünü kaybetmemesi için dikkatlice kaplanmış. Evin yuvarlak şekli sadece manzarayı çerçevelemiyor, panoramik manzarayı bükerek tüm kıyı şeridinin geniş manzarasını evin içine çekiyor. Dik çatılı çatı katı ise dairenin arkasında, 60’ların klasik D yüzgeçli sörf tahtaları gibi simetrik olarak oturtulmuş. Hawaii’nin eski dönem tek duvarlı evlerine benzer şekilde, duvarlar ve tavan çıplak çam zemin kaplamasından yapılmış. Çerçevesiz cam kenarlı duvarlar ise doğrudan glulamlara (yapıştırılmış lamine ahşap) ve zemine yönlendiriliyor. Ayrıca evin tüm mekanları merkezde duran üstü kapalı dış mekan oturma odası ve çatısız bir atrium oluşturan boşluklarla tanımlanıyor. TWO EXCEPTIONAL HAWAII HOMES writer Alp Tekin photos Darren Bradley T he two extra ordinary new projects by California and Hawaii based architecture firm Craig Steely Architecture are among the favorites: Musubi House and D Fin House. All of Craig Steely’s projects are described as a hybrid of California and Hawaiian nature travelling between reality and dream. Because Craig Steely states that he cares about embracing the realities of nature and focuses on developing a singular architecture that is rooted in its own context. MUSUBI HOUSE Musubi House enjoys a stunning location between the northeast slope of Hawaii’s Mauna Kea volcano and the Ohio forest. Since the homeowners dreamed of a house embracing the windy nature of the Hamakua beach, the architecture office built the whole story of the project based on this dream. As a result, this house has been built that looks like a ship floating in the ocean, but instead of the ocean, it sails on the undulating ground of grass! Musubi House is named after musubi, the Hawaiian version of the Japanese dish “onigiri”. The house was called “musubi” extemporarily: During construction, the carpenters say the project plan is very similar to musubi. Later, when everyone started calling the project by that name, the name of the house was determined as musubi. The construction process of the house, which was constantly exposed to strong wind and rain due to its location, was quite difficult and complex. It is possible to describe the project plan of the house as follows: An interior triangle supporting the diamond-shaped roof and an exterior triangle inside it. The interior triangle consists of three short curved concrete walls. The triangular atrium in the center has a floor made of Pahoehoe lava. The homeowners’ willingness to prioritize privacy also gave the Craig Steely architectural office team the freedom to prepare a plan without doors and rigid boundaries. Therefore, all areas of the house are in visual contact with the panoramic view. The uninterrupted flow of scenery from the grass floor to the ceiling and the edge of the glass walls is truly stunning! D FIN HOUSE D Fin House is located near Captain Cook, above Kealakekua Bay on the Big Island of Hawaii. The architecture of D Fin House begins with a very strong and artistic movement: an extruded circle floating in the landscape. Moreover, the entire structure has been carefully coated so that this form does not lose its strength. The rounded shape of the house not only frames the view, it bends the panoramic view, drawing the broad view of the entire coastline into the house. The steep-roofed penthouse is located behind the flat, symmetrically like the classic 60’s D-fin surfboards. Similar to Hawaii’s ancient single-wall homes, the walls and ceiling are made of bare pine floor cover. Frameless glass- edged walls lead directly to the glulams (glued laminated wood) and floor. In addition, all spaces of the house are defined by the central covered outdoor living room and voids that form a roofless atrium. Tamamı için... | For more... Print VOL VIII - 2022 / 23 Out of Stock View Details No product

September 2023 | MEDITERRANEAN | Vol 10 english below MAMULA ISLAND words Leon Williams Ü zerinde sadece 19. yüzyıldan kalma bir kalenin yer aldığı Mamula Adası, 2023’ün en sürpriz destinasyonlarından biri. Çünkü o tarihi kale artık 32 odalı, Design Hotels topluluğuna üye bir tasarım oteli. İsmini de adanın kendisinden alıyor. Karadağ’ın Herceg Novi kıyılarında, Kotor Körfezi’nin girişinde konumlanan Mamula Adası’nın başka özellikleri de var. Hem UNESCO Dünya Mirası Listesi’nde hem de yerel halk arasında bu adanın manevi değeri var. Çünkü kale 1852’de Avusturya-Macaristan generali Lazar Mamula tarafından inşa edilmiş. I. ve II. Dünya Savaşları dönemlerinde ise hapishaneymiş. Son 70 yıldır ise harap bir halde, kullanılmaz durumdaymış. Peki bu tarihi geçmiş korunabilmiş mi? Bu sorunun yanıtı evet. Mimari konsepti yöneten Lizbon merkezli MCM Architecture & Design, iç tasarımı üstlenen Piotr Wisniewski ve ajansı weStudio Berlin; binanın orijinal güzelliğini ön plana çıkarmak için tüm restorasyon sürecinde yetkililerle beraber çalışmış. YENİ BİR TARİH Üç restoranı ve özel bir miksoloji barı olan Mamula’nın öne çıkan bir başka özelliği ise misafir sanatçı programına ev sahipliği yapan Atelier Mamula. Sadece 200 metre çapındaki bu dairesel küçük ada şimdi kendine yeni bir tarih yazmaya hazırlanıyor: Üstelik bu kez başlangıcı hayli tasarım ve şık... NASIL ULAŞILIYOR Karadağ Herceg Novi kıyılarından ücretsiz tekne transferleri yapılıyor. En yakın havalimanları ise Tivat (TIV), Dubrovnik (DBV) ve Podgorica (TGD). M amula Island, which has only a 19th-century castle on it, is one of the most surprising destinations of 2023. Because that historical castle is now a design hotel, a member of the Design Hotels community, with 32 rooms. It gets its name from the island itself. Mamula Island, located at the entrance of the Bay of Kotor on the coast of Herceg Novi in Montenegro, has other features. This island has a spiritual value both on the UNESCO World Heritage List and among the locals. Because the castle was built in 1852 by the Austro-Hungarian general Lazar Mamula. It was a prison during the World Wars I and II. For the past 70 years, it has been in ruins and unusable. Well, has this historical past been preserved? The answer to that question is yes. Lisbon-based MCM Architecture & Design which heads the architectural concept, Piotr Wisniewski who undertakes the interior design, and his agency weStudio Berlin worked with the authorities throughout the restoration process to highlight the original beauty of the building. A NEW HISTORY Another highlight of Mamula, with three restaurants and a special mixology bar, is Atelier Mamula, which hosts the guest artist program. Just 200 meters in diameter, this little circular island is now preparing to write a new history for itself: Moreover, this time its beginning is very stylish and chic... HOW TO REACH There are free boat transfers from the coast of Herceg Novi in Montenegro. The nearest airports are Tivat (TIV), Dubrovnik (DBV) and Podgorica (TGD). for more Print VOL X - AEGEAN & MEDITERRANEAN EDITION - 2023 Out of Stock Add to Cart

Şubat 2021 | Tasarım | Dünya Arabasız, caddesiz, akıllı şehir: The Line Yazı | Mert Çam S uudi Arabistan denince zihinlerimizde beliren fikirler yakın gelecekte tümden değişeceğe benziyor. Zira Suudi Arabistan veliaht prensi Muhammed bin Salman (MBS), yakın zamanda kapsamlı bir reform projesi başlattı. MBS, bu reformlar listesiyle ülkesinin imajını olumlu yönde değiştirmeyi amaçlarken ekonomik çeşitlilik, daha iyi yaşam standartları, kültürel gelişim gibi konulara önem vereceğini iddia ediyor. Hatta 35 yılın ardından müze, tiyatro ve sinemaların açılması olumlu yeniliklerin habercisi olmuş Suudi halkı için. NEDEN DEĞİŞİYOR Kuşkusuz bu değişim isteğinin nedeni ülkenin petrole olan bağımlılığını ortadan kaldırmak. Hali hazırda ülkenin en büyük ticari işbirlikçisi olan British Petrol’ün bile yatırımlarını daha az petrolün kullanıldığı bir geleceğe göre planlaması bu adımların ne kadar gerekli olduğunun kanıtı. Sonuç olarak Suudi Arabistan, Birleşik Arap Emirlikleri'nin Dubai ve Abu Dhabi'de yaptığı gibi ülkenin çehresini değiştirecek birbirinden yenilikçi projeleri peş peşe kamuoyuna sunmaya başladı. Öyle ki, bu projeler tamamlandığında geleceğin sorunlarına da çözüm sağlayacak. Nasıl mı? Araştırmalar gösteriyor ki yakın gelecekte iklim değişikliği, hava kirliliği ve suların yükselmesiyle yaklaşık bir milyar insan yaşayacak yeni yerler aramak zorunda kalacak. Suudi yönetimi bu ihtiyacın bir kısmını karşılamaya aday gibi görünüyor. Çok konuşulan, iddialı “The Line” projesiyle… BİLİM KURGU FİLMLERİNDEKİ GİBİ The Line, “Neom mega-şehri projesi”nin ilk ayağı. Akıllı şehir konseptli bir yerleşim merkezi. İnşaatına bu yıl başlanan projenin toplamda 200 milyar dolara mal olacağı öngörülüyor. Tasarımı ve sunduğu teknolojiyle bilim kurgu filmlerindeki şehirleri andıran The Line’ın özelliklerine gelince… 1. İnce bir şerit olarak (170 kilometre uzunluğunda) tasarlanan The Line, doğa dostu bir şehir olacak. Yüzde yüz yeşil enerjiyle işletilecek ve karbondioksit üretmek yerine doğadaki karbondioksitin emilimini sağlayacak bir sistem sunacak. 2. İçinde hiçbir şekilde araba, otoyol ve cadde bulunmayacak. Dolayısıyla hava kirliliği, karbondioksit salınımı ve trafik kazaları da olmayacak. 3. Tasarımın yüzeyi 170 kilometrelik şerit boyunca uzanan yaşam modülleri şeklinde planlanmış. Bu modüllerde sadece yürüme ve bisiklet yolları, yeşil alanlar, yaşam alanları ve tarım bölgeleri olacak. 4. Şehrin uzunluğuna rağmen bulunduğunuz modülde okul, hastane, alışveriş merkezi gibi birçok birim olacağından ihtiyacınız olan her yere birkaç dakikalık bir yürüme mesafesi uzağında olacaksınız. 5. Eğer şehrin başka bölgelerine gitmeyi arzu ederseniz yerin altındaki ultra hızlı trenleri, şoförsüz taksileri ya da kendi kendine uçan hava taksilerini kullanabilirsiniz. Bu şekilde şehrin başından sonuna sadece yirmi dakikada ulaşıyor olacaksınız. Şehirde birçok birim yapay zeka ile yönetilecek ve sayısız robotik yardımcı hizmetinizde olacak. 6. Proje bitiminde şehirde dünyanın her yerinden bir milyon kişinin yaşayacağı ve şehrin 380 bin kişiye iş imkanı sağlayacağı söyleniyor. Şehir eğer planlandığı gibi tamamlanırsa insanlık tarihinin yapımı en pahalı ve gelişmiş şehri olacak gibi duruyor.

March 2025 | DESIGN & INTERIORS BROOKLYN SANCTUARY: a MODERN ECLECTIC HAVEN words Karine Monie photos Brian W. Ferry interior design Lucy Harris Studio styling Katja Greeff In a row of new brownstones in Brooklyn, one home truly stands out. With bespoke landscaping in both front and back gardens and ample outdoor spaces—including a spacious terrace—the residence serves as a sanctuary for a young couple and their new baby. Enlisting the expertise of Lucy Harris Studio, the owners transformed their townhouse into a retreat that blends functionality with artistic flair. AN IMPOSSIBLE BOUQUET OF DESIGN Lucy Harris’s creative approach was inspired by the idea of an “impossible bouquet,” where colors, materials, and inspirations that might not normally coexist come together in harmonious contrast. The project marries peaceful, eclectic spaces ideal for entertaining with intimate areas for quality time. Vintage pieces and creations from small-scale makers lend the home its distinctive character, while playful geometric patterns and natural materials maintain a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere. CRAFTING A FAMILY-READY RETREAT “The client wanted a beautiful and practical space that the family could grow into,” says Lucy Harris. "With their first child arriving during the project, the design needed to be alluring yet entirely baby-ready. The couple’s time in the southwestern U.S. and their love of travel inspired elements that evoke a relaxed, nature-infused feel without being overly literal" SEAMLESS INTEGRATION OF INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR Lucy Harris spent 1.5 years meticulously designing spaces with soft edges that encourage open gathering. Interior and exterior elements were developed simultaneously, resulting in a fluid, cohesive environment. Bold features like the custom living room millwork, expansive rug, and striking foyer tile arrived as the final touches that truly brought the design together. The dining area features a custom built-in banquette upholstered in lush moss Brecon fabric by Tibor, while sculptural objects and uniquely meaningful art adorn shelves and walls throughout the home. Upon completion, the home radiated life—a vibrant blend of modern eclecticism and family warmth. Lucy Harris’s vision has culminated in a home that perfectly balances the bold with the serene, creating a modern sanctuary that is as stylish as it is welcoming.

November 2023 | Art & Culture | Vol 11 BASIM MAGDY Pleasure is key to anything I would call art You have works in cinema, painting, and photography and sometimes works that include all of these. Is this because one art practice is not enough for you, or is it because you enjoy expressing your own universe in an unlimited way? It’s about the richness and the vast terrain of unexplored potential of every one of those mediums, this unexplored potential changes as the world it exists in is constantly changing. I see a lot of things as art. I started listening to the audio details of what’s around me when I began making field recordings to compose soundtracks for my films. To me, this newly discovered attention to listening is art. I write poetry that I rarely seek to publish, this is another form of art. I don’t think it’s important what medium I use to make art. What’s critical is to choose the right medium to communicate my ideas. Obviously without enjoying what I do, I wouldn’t be able to create anything. Pleasure is key to anything I would call art! I LEARNED TO CHOOSE MY BATTLES There are references to ecology, technology, politics, in other words, our present day, in all your artworks. As you are making these, you use elements phrases of science fiction and words, am I wrong? Why these two in particular? There are references to the world I experience every day, what I perceive as reality and what I know is nothing but fast-moving virtual chaos on a glass screen. I see everything I create as fiction. I wouldn’t call it science fiction because it’s not just concerned with science or any of the things you mentioned in particular, it’s more about the complexity of all of this coexisting together – or not. It’s about the layers that create our perception of reality, how they change roles and sometimes gain more relevance as the circumstances change. There’s definitely a layer of politics in everything I do, but it’s not political work. Sometimes there is humor but it’s not comical. My work is about the complexity of being alive in this moment in time and how I find that art allows me to communicate my response to it in a way spoken and written language can’t. I wonder with what aspects you comprehend and do not comprehend the world as a 46-year-old person and artist… Hopefully with more maturity and a strong understanding that I should only try to change the things that are changeable. I learned to choose my battles and that kindness, sincerity and generosity even if just on a personal level are more powerful that trying to change the world. And I hope this is reflected in what I do as an artist. Which of your works will we see at this year’s Art Basel Miami? I’m showing recent paintings in a solo booth presented by Gypsum Gallery, Cairo in the Nova Section at Art Basel Miami Beach this December. I like to think of these paintings as hopeful paintings. Like a lot of my work, they depict fictional situations that linger somewhere between the past, present and future. Those paintings are about a lot of things I’ve been thinking about recently, a lot of historical mistakes and being able to witness hopeful change happening in our time. But like I mentioned earlier, they are layered with the complexity of reality and the premise of fiction to explore new avenues for thinking and imagining future alternatives. TOO MUCH DEFINITION IS ALSO A CURSE AND A PRISON What is your greatest motivation while doing your artwork at this time? In 2010 I made “Turtles All the Way Down”, the first film I made after 10 years of working with painting, drawing, installation and animation. One of the biggest questions I asked in the film was, “We know the universe is expanding, but what is it expanding into? What is the unknown entity outside of this expansion that is constantly getting consumed by it?” I will use this as an analogy to answer your question. The greatest motivation for me is exploring what’s on the other side of my growing imagination. With every painting or film or photographic installation, new unexplored ideas emerge that my imagination feels compelled to explore. It’s an addiction. This expansion of the imagination and what’s beyond it is four dimensional, the 4th being time as the main witness of change and maturity. What are the three characteristics that define you and your artworks? I don’t want to define my artwork, that’s not for me to do but also it defies the purpose of making art. Art is a language that defies definition. Art is meant to express what we can’t communicate with words alone. Too much definition is also a curse and a prison, it closes all doors for the evolution of existing meaning, thought and imagination. As for me, I think the thing that drives me the most is curiosity. * BIO: Egyptian-born artist Basim Magdy currently lives in Basel, Switzerland and continues his artwork there. Magdy looks at the world with a satirical eye in all his works; at the sam time, it creates surreal depictions by gathering elements of the past, present and future in a single universe. Using a range of unconventional materials in his works, from spray paint to chemically altered film stocks, Magdy’s latest paintings will be shown in the “Nova” section of this year’s Art Basel Miami. Film, resim, fotoğraf ve bazen de hepsini kapsayan çalışmaların var. Bunun nedeni tek bir sanat pratiği yetmediği için mi yoksa kendi evrenini sınırsız bir şekilde ifade etme durumu hoşuna gittiği için mi? Mesele tamamen bu sanat disiplinlerinin her birinin ayrı bir zenginlik ve keşfedilmemiş engin potansiyele sahip olmasıyla ilgili. Bu keşfedilmemiş potansiyel, dünya değiştikçe sürekli değişiyor. Pek çok şeyi sanat olarak görüyorum. Filmlerimin müziklerini bestelemek için saha kayıtları yapmaya başladığımda çevremde olup biten seslerin ayrıntılarını dinlemeye başladım. Bana göre dinlemeye yönelik yeni keşfedilen bu ilgi sanattır. Nadiren yayınlamayı düşündüğüm şiirler yazıyorum, bu da sanatın başka bir türü. Dolayısıyla sanat yapmak için hangi aracı kullandığımın önemli olduğunu düşünmüyorum. Önemli olan fikirlerimi iletmek için doğru ortamı seçmek. Açıkçası yaptığım işten keyif almadan hiçbir şey yaratamam. Zevk, sanat diyebileceğim her şeyin anahtarı! KAVGALARIMI SEÇMEYİ ÖĞRENDİM Tüm çalışmalarında ekolojik, teknolojik, siyasi, yani günümüze dair göndermeler var. Bunları yaparken de bilim kurgu unsurlarını ve sözcükleri sıkça kullanıyorsun, yanılıyor muyum? Neden özellikle bu ikisi? Yaşadığımız dünyada her gün gerçeklik olarak algıladığımız, önümüzdeki ekran üzerinde hızla hareket eden sanal bir kaos var. Yarattığım her şeyi kurgu olarak görüyorum. Buna bilim kurgu diyemem, çünkü bu sadece bilimle ya da özellikle bahsettiğiniz herhangi bir şeyle ilgili değil. Daha çok bunların bir arada var olmasının karmaşıklığıyla ilgili. Ya da değil. Gerçeklik algımızı yaratan katmanlarla, bunların nasıl rol değiştirdiğiyle ve koşullar değiştikçe nasıl daha fazla önem kazandığıyla ilgili… Yaptığım her şeyin mutlaka siyasi bir katmanı var, ama eserlerim siyasi işler değil. Bazen mizah var, ama komik değil. Çalışmalarım; zamanın bu döneminde hayatta kalmanın karmaşıklığı ve sanatın buna dair tepkimi -sözlü ve yazılı dilin yapamayacağı bir şekilde- yansıtmama nasıl izin verdiğini bulmamla ilgili… 46 yaşında bir insan ve sanatçı olarak dünyayı hangi yönleriyle anladığını ya da anlayamadığını merak ediyorum… Umarım daha fazla olgunlukla sadece değişebilir şeyleri değiştirmeye çalışmam gerektiğine dair bir anlayışa sahip olmuşumdur. Sonuçta kavgalarımı seçmeyi öğrendim. Kişisel düzeyde bile olsa nezaket, samimiyet ve cömertliğin dünyayı değiştirmeye çalışmaktan daha güçlü olduğunu öğrendim. Ve umarım bu, bir sanatçı olarak yaptıklarıma da yansır. Bu yılki Art Basel Miami’de hangi çalışmalarınızı göreceğiz? Art Basel Miami Beach’in “Nova” bölümünde, Kahire’deki Gypsum Gallery’nin alanında son resimlerimi sergiliyorum. Bu işlerimi umut verici olarak düşünmeyi seviyorum. Pek çok eserim gibi geçmiş, şimdi ve gelecek arasında bir yerde kalan kurgusal durumları tasvir ediyorlar. Bu resimler son zamanlarda düşündüğüm pek çok şeyle, pek çok tarihsel hatayla ve zamanımızda meydana gelen umut verici değişimlere tanıklık edebilmekle ilgili… Ama daha önce belirttiğim gibi, gelecekteki alternatifleri düşünüp yeni yollar keşfetmek amacıyla, gerçekliğin karmaşıklığı ve kurgu öncülüyle katmanlandırılmışlar. ÇOK FAZLA TANIMLAMA AYNI ZAMANDA BİR LANET VE HAPİSHANEDIR! Sanat yaparken şu anki en büyük motivasyonun nedir? 10 yıllık resim, çizim, yerleştirme ve animasyon çalışmalarından sonra yaptığım ilk film olan “Turtles All the Way Down”ı 2010 yılında çekmiştim. Filmde sorduğum en büyük sorulardan biri şuydu: “Evrenin genişlediğini biliyoruz, ama neye doğru genişliyor? Bu genişlemenin dışında sürekli tüketilen ve bilinmeyen varlık nedir?” Sorunuzu yanıtlamak için bunu bir benzetme olarak kullanacağım. Benim için en büyük motivasyon, büyüyen hayal gücümün diğer tarafında olanı keşfetmek! Her resim, film ya da fotoğraf enstalasyonuyla birlikte, hayal gücümün keşfetmeye mecbur hissettiğim yeni, keşfedilmemiş fikirleri ortaya çıkıyor. Bu bir bağımlılık! Hayal gücünün genişlemesi ve onun ötesindekiler dört boyutlu. 4’üncüsü ise değişim ve olgunluğun ana tanığı olan zaman. Seni ve eserlerini tanımlayan üç özellik? Eserlerimi tanımlamak istemiyorum! Bu benim işim değil, ama aynı zamanda sanat yapmanın amacına da meydan okuyor. Sanat, tanıma meydan okuyan bir dil. Sanat, kelimelerle ifade edemediklerimizi ifade etmek içindir. Çok fazla tanımlama aynı zamanda bir lanet ve hapishanedir! Var olan anlam, düşünce ve hayal gücünün evrimine tüm kapıları kapatır. Bana gelince… Beni en çok harekete geçiren şey, merak. Devam etmemi sağlayan şey bu! * BIO: Mısır doğumlu sanatçı Basim Magdy, halen İsviçre-Basel’de yaşıyor ve sanat çalışmalarına orada devam ediyor. Tüm işlerinde dünyaya hiciv barındıran bir gözle bakan Magdy; geçmiş, şimdi ve geleceğe ait unsurları tek bir evrende toplayarak gerçeküstü tasvirler yaratıyor. Eserlerinde sprey boyadan kimyasal olarak değiştirilmiş film stoklarına kadar bir dizi alışılmadık malzemeyi kullanan Magdy’nin son resimleri bu yılki Art Basel Miami’nin “Nova” bölümünde gösterilecek. for more Print VOL XI - 2023 / 24 Out of Stock Add to Cart

June 13, 2025 | DESIGN & INTERIORS MA HOUSE: the BEAUTY of LESS words Alp Tekin photos İbrahim Özbunar Set in the quiet rhythm of Fenerbahçe, on Istanbul’s Asian shores, MA House is a study in balance—where thoughtful functionality meets a palette of rich materials and calm, unforced elegance. Designed by Escapefromsofa, the residence reflects a quiet, intentional aesthetic shaped by soft tones, tactile materials, and a clear architectural language. “The client’s request was clear from the start,” the studio explains. “A sincere, soft, and livable home. From there, we created a contemporary space grounded in mid-century sensibilities, where tactile materials and carefully considered details shape the experience of daily life.” Organized over two floors, the plan is built around a balance of connection and privacy. Throughout the home, Escapefromsofa prioritized spatial clarity and calm. Custom built-in furniture, bespoke lighting, and minimal architectural interventions create a sense of seamless flow, allowing each material to express itself fully. The palette speaks in earthy tones: soft beiges, olive greens, terracotta tiles, and warm woods echo the organic hues of the surrounding context. Textured plasters and brushed metal details bring a sense of depth and invite a tactile, almost meditative interaction with the space. At a time when design can often feel overly stylized, MA House stands out as an example of emotional minimalism. Every surface and junction is crafted not to impress, but to comfort. “This is a space that doesn’t shout—it quietly whispers comfort and authenticity,” says the studio. That ethos permeates the entire project—from the subtle zoning between shared and private areas to the slow rhythm of natural light moving across textured walls. The neighborhood itself plays a leading role. Known for its peaceful streets and coastal charm, Fenerbahçe shaped the home’s approach to scale, softness, and atmosphere. Generous terraces and direct access to the garden reinforce the dialogue between indoors and out—framing the house as both a retreat and a space for gathering. In the end, MA House reflects an evolving language of luxury—less about opulence, more about meaning: thoughtful, serene, and deeply human. TR BELOW DUYGUSAL MİNİMALİZM: MA HOUSE İstanbul'un Asya yakasının popüler mahallesi Fenerbahçe’de yer alan MA House; işlevsellik, malzeme zenginliği ve sade zarafeti dengeleyerek rafine bir tasarım yaklaşımı sunuyor. MA House’un tasarımını üstlenen Escapefromsofa, “Müşterilerin isteği en başından beri çok netti” diyor, “Samimi, yumuşak ve yaşanabilir bir ev. Biz de buradan yola çıkarak dokunsal malzemeler ve özenle düşünülmüş detayların günlük yaşam deneyimini şekillendirdiği, orta yüzyıl tasarım duyarlılığına dayanan çağdaş bir mekan yarattık”. Evin iki katlı planı bağlantı ve mahremiyet etrafında düzenlenmiş ve Escapefromsofa ekibi tüm ev boyunca mekansal netlik ve sakinliği ön planda tutmuş. Özel yapım gömme mobilyalar, özel aydınlatma ve minimal mimari müdahale, her malzemenin kendini ifade etmesini sağlayan kesintisiz bir akış yaratıyor. Renk paletinde yumuşak bejler, zeytin yeşilleri, terrakotta fayanslar, sıcak ahşap tonları dikkat çekiyor. Dokulu sıvalar ve fırçalanmış metal detaylar ise derinlik katarak mekanla neredeyse meditatif bir etkileşim kurmaya davet ediyor. Tasarımın genellikle aşırı stilize olduğu bir dönemde MA House duygusal minimalizmin bir örneği. Her yüzey ve birleşme noktası, etkileyici olmak için değil, konfor sağlamak için tasarlanmış. Stüdyo, “MA House bağırmayan, aksine konfor ve özgünlüğü fısıldayan bir mekan” diye açıklıyor. Bu felsefe, ortak ve özel alanların ince bölünmesinden dokulu duvarlardan süzülen doğal ışığın sakin ritmine kadar projenin her yerine yansımış. Fenerbahçe semtinin kendisi de başrolde. Sakin sokakları ve sahil cazibesiyle tanınan mahallenin kimliği; evin ölçeği, yumuşaklığı ve atmosferine yaklaşımını şekillendirmiş. Geniş teraslar ve bahçeye erişim, iç ve dış mekanlar arasındaki diyaloğu pekiştirerek evi hem sığınak hem de toplanma yeri olarak çerçeveliyor. Sonuçta MA House, lüksün gelişen dilini yansıtma iddiasında: İhtişamdan çok anlam odaklı, düşünceli, sakin, derin ve insani.

November 2023 | TRAVEL an AMAN NYC EXPERIENCE words Onur Baştürk A ten-hour flight, an hour-long passport queue, and on top of that, one-hour traffic from JFK to Manhattan... There could be only one thing that would get me to forget all this exhaustion. And it was undoubtedly Aman New York! Indeed, it was. As soon as I entered Aman New York, it felt like I had left everything behind. Not just for the sake of the conversation; the building has such an impressive design and aura that I can describe the situation as follows: feeling as if I have transitioned to another dimension or a peaceful empire… However, Aman New York is situated right in the center of the Manhattan jungle, at the intersection of 5th Avenue and 57th Street. The building where the hotel is located is the iconic and historical Crown Building. This 100-year-old building, the first venue of MoMA, is also a magnificent symbol of the “Gilded Age” period. The Crown Building, designed by Warren & Wetmore, who are also the architects of Grand Central Station and the Helmsley Building, is one of the best examples of Beaux-Arts architecture in North America with its neo-classical exterior, French Renaissance details, and castle-like tower. Of course, it was not an easy endeavor to transform the Crown Building into a hotel that would carry the spirit of Aman by preserving its historical value. Ultimately, Aman Resorts entrusted Jean-Michel Gathy and his studio Denniston Architects with the task of transforming the 25-story building to accommodate 83 suites and 22 residences. The result? Incredibly successful! This is because both the traces and magnificent proportions of the golden age of the building havebeen preserved and the element of tranquility and privacy, which is Aman's signature, has been aptly incorporated into the building. The old and the new and the Orient and the Occident are elegantly blended. Therefore, the definition of "a quiet oasis in the city" attributed to Aman New York is completely real. For example, when I was staying in my suite on the 9th floor, thanks to the extraordinary insulation, the Manhattan noise outside was never heard inside. There is more: When I entered the suite, I came across a burning fireplace, which was adorable! I should remind you that this fireplace, which can turned on and off through the remote control, is a very rare occasion in Manhattan... MAGNIFICENT DETAIL ON THE WALLS Organic materials such as oak, walnut, and aromatic cinnamon trees have been used all over Aman New York, that is, on all floors, doors, and custom-made furniture. Therefore, the meditative effect of the Orient is felt in every moment. The marble with a Belgian blue and chocolate brown color adds a more masculine New York touch to this atmosphere. In short, it is a complete yin and yang! The walls of the rooms have been covered with natural fabric, which was one of the details I liked the most when staying in my room. On the walls covered with natural fabric, floral arrangements inspired by Japan's classic Ikebana art form have been printed on delicate rice paper. These arrangements, which are a tribute to Aman's brand roots, have been inspired by Hasegawa Tōhaku's 15th-century masterpiece “Pine Trees”. Let me note that "Pine Trees" is one of Japan's most famous works and was declared a National Treasure in 1952... SECRETS OF THE 14TH FLOOR Let's come to the other signifciant features of Aman New York... The 14th floor, which includes an outdoor terrace, is a first for New York. This is because this open area is 650 square meters. There are two different restaurants on the same floor. The first is the Italian restaurant Arva. The second is Nama, which celebrates Japan's food tradition called wasoku. I did not experience Arva, which is open all day, but on the first night of my arrival at the hotel, I had dinner with my friends at Nama. Nama was very good from beginning to end with its atmosphere, cocktails, sushi, and service. The indoor swimming pool in Aman New York's spa still preserves its place in my memory like an unforgettable movie frame with its iconic design concept. Finally, the hotel has a jazz club. Inspired by the jazz era of the 1920s, the Jazz Club, under the creative direction of legendary musician Brian Newman, is open every night with live performances except Sunday and Monday. Reservations for the Jazz Club can be made at the web address, thejazzclub.com.

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

August 2024 | VOL 13 TURKISH BELOW New expansions of Som Interior words Alp Tekin portrait photos Abdullah Abukan - content partnership - H aving opened the first Turkish store of the Spanish outdoor brand, Vondom, at addresistanbul Home Decoration Center, Som Interior founders Özge Yıldız Taşkıran and Berat Taşkıran keep making new expansions. Creating a new brand called Meet The Icons at addresistanbul and soon launching the products of their outdoor brand Atmosphera in Türkiye, Taşkıran couple says, "We closely follow the current design developments around the world", and adds, "Our goal is to always be a few steps ahead in this field in Türkiye". How did the journey of Som Interior begin? We founded it in 2012 in Çukurcuma, Istanbul. We aimed to present the concept of modern furniture, which we constantly think about while designing and implementing projects, as our main business, to everyone by creating a new brand. At the time we created our brand, it simply would not be easy to find furniture of high quality and up-to-date design in Türkiye, except for imported furniture. That is why we have managed to become a brand that is admired and followed in a short time. How would you briefly describe Som Interior's design line? Som Interior's design line is to offer sophisticated and original designs with high quality. We closely follow the current design around the world and strive to be a few steps ahead in this field in our country. We bring the concept of modern luxury to interiors with original furniture in simple lines, but making a difference in details and material choices. What is the content of your new concept, Meet The Icons? Meet the Icons is our new concept featuring iconic pieces of the design world whose lines we find close to our own. Our aim here is to include products that are complementary to ours. Primarily lighting, as well as coffee tables and consoles, and iconic furniture... We tried to offer a new space that gives the sense of touring a design museum. In Meet The Icons, we feature lighting brands including Martinelli Luce, Nemo, Foscarini, Oluce, and Contardi, as well as Zanotta, Glas Italia, and other brands that stand out and are recognized for their designs. WE WERE IMPRESSED by THE UNIQUENESS OF VONDOM DESIGNS You launched Vondom's first store in Türkiye. Why Vondom? We always intended to bring our success in indoor furniture to the outdoors. We received a lot of requests for this. Although we produced our designs, we were not able to offer a holistic outdoor solution. As we crossed paths with Vondom, we were impressed by the uniqueness of its design language and its exceptional outdoor furniture. Working with some of the world's best designers, Vondom has a wide range of products, all elements of which are made in Europe, addressing many different needs, from the pool and beach to the garden, the terrace of a luxury villa, and even large social spaces such as shopping malls and hospitals. It is a brand that combines modern design language with quality materials in all these products. That's why we believed that Vondom would fit very well into our brand culture. Atmosphera will also be included among your brands soon... Yes, Atmosphera is a brand that combines Italian elegance with teak, ceramic and colorful materials. As Som Interior, we wish to offer different alternatives to outdoor products by combining them. In doing so, we care that our customers enjoy the service with the Som Interior difference. So, we are going to keep adding special selections from different brands to our outdoor collection. MUST BE RESISTANT TO SUNLIGHT So, what are the features you pay the most attention to in outdoor products? The most significant feature is, of course, the product's resistance to UV light, sea salt, weather conditions, etc. Also the ease of maintenance. The Vondom products in particular are certified to withstand sunlight, sea salt, fire, and even weather conditions down to -70 degrees Celsius. And this is a big advantage for use and maintenance. Som Interior’ın yeni açılımları - içerik ortaklığı - İ spanyol outdoor markası Vondom’un ilk Türkiye mağazasını addresistanbul Ev Dekorasyon Merkezi’nde açan Som Interior kurucuları Özge Yıldız Taşkıran ve Berat Taşkıran çifti, yeni açılımlar yapmaya devam ediyor. addresistanbul’da Meet The Icons isimli yeni bir marka daha yaratan ve yakın zamanda outdoor markası Atmosphera’nın ürünlerini de Türkiye’de satışa çıkaracak olan Taşkıran çifti, “Dünyadaki güncel tasarım gelişmelerini yakından takip ediyoruz” diyor, “Hedefimiz bu alanda Türkiye’de her zaman birkaç adım önde olmak”. Som Interior’ın hikâyesi nasıl başladı? 2012’de İstanbul, Çukurcuma’da kurduk. Esas işimiz olan proje tasarım ve uygulamayı yaparken üzerinde sürekli düşündüğümüz modern mobilya konseptini yeni bir marka yaratarak herkese sunmak istedik. Markamızı yarattığımız dönemde Türkiye’de ithal mobilya dışında güncel tasarım ve yüksek kalitede mobilya bulmak pek mümkün değildi. Bu nedenle kısa sürede beğenilerek takip edilen bir marka olmayı başardık. Som Interior'ın tasarım çizgisini nasıl özetlersiniz? Som Interior'ın tasarım çizgisi, sofistike ve özgün tasarımları yüksek kalite ile sunmak. Dünyada güncel tasarımı yakından takip ediyoruz ve bu alanda ülkemizde birkaç adım önde olmaya gayret ediyoruz. Yalın çizgide, ancak detaylar ve malzeme seçimlerinde fark yaratan özgün mobilyalarla modern lüks kavramını iç mekanlara taşıyoruz. TASARIM MÜZESİ GEZİYORMUŞ GİBİ BİR HİS… Yeni konseptiniz Meet The Icons’ın içeriği nedir? Meet the Icons, çizgisini kendimize yakın bulduğumuz tasarım dünyasının ikonik parçalarına yer veren yeni konseptimiz. Burada amacımız bizim ürünlerimizle tamamlayıcı nitelikteki ürünlere yer vermek. Başta aydınlatmalar olmak üzere sehpa ve konsollar, ayrıca ikonik mobilyalar… Tasarım müzesi geziyormuş gibi bir his veren, yeni bir alan sunmak istedik. Martinelli Luce, Nemo, Foscarini, Oluce, Contardi gibi aydınlatma markalarıyla beraber Zanotta, Glasitalia gibi tasarımlarıyla ön plana çıkan ve tanınan markalara Meet The Icons’ta yer veriyoruz. VONDOM TASARIMLARININ ÖZGÜNLÜĞÜ BİZİ ETKİLEDİ Vondom'un ilk Türkiye mağazasını açtınız. Neden Vondom? İç mekan mobilyalarındaki başarımızı dış mekana taşımayı uzun zamandır planlıyorduk. Bu konuda çok talep geliyordu. Her ne kadar kendi tasarımlarımızı üretsek de, bütüncül bir dış mekan çözümü sunamıyorduk. Yolumuz Vondom’la kesişince, hem tasarım dilinin özgünlüğü hem de alışılmışın dışındaki dış mekan mobilyaları bizi etkiledi. Vondom, gerçekten de dünyanın en iyi tasarımcılarıyla çalışan, tüm elementleri Avrupa’da üretilen, havuzdan plaja bahçeden lüks bir villanın terasına, hatta AVM ve hastane gibi büyük sosyal alanlara kadar birçok farklı ihtiyaca hitap eden geniş bir ürün yelpazesine sahip. Tüm bu ürünlerde modern tasarım diliyle kaliteli malzemeyi birleştirebilmiş bir marka. Bu nedenle Vondom’un marka kültürümüze çok iyi uyum sağlayacağını düşündük. Yakın zamanda bir de Atmosphera markalarınız arasına eklenecek… Evet, Atmosphera markası İtalyan zarafetini tik, seramik ve renkli malzemelerle birleştiren çok beğendiğimiz bir marka. Som Interior olarak outdoor ürünlerinde farklı alternatifleri birleştirerek sunmak istiyoruz. Bunu yaparken de müşterilerimizin Som Interior farkıyla hizmet almasını önemsiyoruz. Bu nedenle outdoor koleksiyonumuza farklı markalardan özel seçkiler eklemeye devam edeceğiz. GÜNEŞ IŞINLARINA DAYANIKLI OLMALI Peki outdoor ürünlerinde en çok dikkat ettiğiniz özellikler neler? En çok dikkat ettiğimiz özellik elbette ürünün UV ışığı, deniz tuzu, hava şartları gibi koşullara karşı dayanıklı olması. Ayrıca bakımının kolaylığı. Özellikle Vondom ürünlerinin güneş ışınlarına, deniz tuzuna, yangına ve hatta -70 dereceye kadar hava koşullarına dayanıklılık sertifikası bulunuyor. Bu da kullanım ve bakım anlamında büyük avantaj. for more Print VOL XIII - AEGEAN & MEDITERRANEAN EDITION 2024 Out of Stock Add to Cart

June 30, 2025 | DESIGN & INTERIORS SKY HIGH, LAID-BACK words Karine Monie photos Courtesy of Clement C Studio interior design Clement C Studio A modern resort-style duplex with an artful soul in Hong Kong. Set high in the hills of Chung Hom Kok, this two-level residence by Clement C Studio reimagines city living through the lens of a boutique escape. Designed for a young couple drawn to nature and calm, the home channels the mood of a refined retreat—wrapped in warm textures, curated objects, and a quietly confident palette. EVERYDAY FEELS LIKE A GETAWAY From the moment you walk in, the energy shifts. Wood veneer flows seamlessly from walls to ceiling, creating a soft, enveloping effect. Terrazzo flooring adds a graphic edge, while earthy neutrals and soft cyan accents bring balance and breeze. Nature isn’t just referenced—it’s invited in, through indoor greenery, botanical wallcoverings, and views that stretch to sea and sky. FURNITURE THAT LIVES WITH YOU The furniture selection hits the sweet spot between sculptural and lived-in. Flexform and Baxter pieces anchor the living areas with quiet luxury, while Moroso and Roche Bobois add bold forms and texture. Porada’s classic woodwork introduces warmth and precision. Outdoors, Tribu furnishings blur the line between inside and out, carrying the same low-key elegance onto the terrace. Every item feels intentional—stylish without shouting, comfortable without compromise. ART AS PART OF THE ARCHITECTURE Art is integral to the home’s identity. A large-scale canvas by Daisy Dodd-Noble anchors the dining space with soft landscape tones, while organic sculptures by Zue Chan echo the home’s nature-driven philosophy. “The artworks aren’t just accents—they’re part of the spatial rhythm,” says Clement Cheng. “They reflect the owners’ personalities and turn each room into a lived-in gallery.” STANDOUT MOMENTS - The spiral stair: Leading from the walk-in closet to a private attic fashion archive—equal parts utility and design statement. - Dark steel trims: Subtle but sharp, they bring an edge to the otherwise soft material palette. - Cyan accents: Scattered just enough to energize the neutral tones without overpowering them. THE OVERALL FEEL? Refined, grounded, effortless. This is a home that doesn’t try too hard—and that’s exactly what makes it so compelling. Clement Cheng’s vision balances clean lines with soul, art with everyday function, and resort calm with city edge. A place to unwind, recharge, and live well—40 floors up.

Ocak 2022 | Tasarım | Vol VI ERDEM HAMZA’DAN ‘RAW’ ve ‘ART NOUVEAU’ ADIMLAR Yazı | Onur Baştürk Fotoğraflar | İbrahim Özbunar İ ç mimar Erdem Hamza ve ekibinin geçtiğimiz yıl içinde yaptığı bir proje en sevdiklerim arasında ilk sıralarda yer almıştı: “Üst Kattayız” adlı dijital ajansın Kuruçeşme’deki yeni ofisi. Doğrusu, projenin bir ofis olduğunu öğrenince şaşırmıştım. Çünkü ev ya da restoran olmaya daha uygun gibi görünüyordu. Tabii şu da var; yeni nesil ofisler artık ofis gibi değil, kimliği olan mekanlar olarak tasarlanıyor. Peki “Üst Kattayız” projesinde beni çeken esas özellik neydi? Elbette duvar renginden kolonlara ve hatta merdiven korkuluklarına kadar mekana sinmiş “Art Nouveau” ruhu. Art Nouveau malum, 19. yüzyıl sonu ile 20. yüzyıl başında etkili olmuş, zarif dekoratif süslemeler ve kıvrımların öne çıktığı bir akım. Gaudi ve Barselona’da yaptığı tüm mimari yapıları hatırlayın desem, zaten bu akımı özetlemiş olurum. Bu akımın savunduğu nokta ise şu: Dekoratif sanatları güzel sanatlar statüsüne yükseltmek. Dahası, sanatı galeri duvarlarında görülen bir şey olmaktan çıkarmak. Bu nedenle Art Nouveau akımında yassı, kıvrımlı, asimetrik, kavisli şekiller, ritmik motifler, hayvan ve bitkiler, kadın figürü, uçuşan saç ve tüyler, çiçekler, asma filizleri bolca kullanıldı. Devamı için... Print VOL VI - 2022 Out of Stock View Details No product

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 ₺970,00 Regular Price ₺870,00 Sale Price Add to Cart

December 15, 2025 | DESIGN & INTERIORS the ART of QUIET PRESENCE words Elena Grabar photos Mikhail Loskutov interiror design A.K.Atelier A serene country house near Moscow blends sculptural design, tactile materials, and a growing collection of contemporary art. When a well-travelled couple invited interior designers Tatyana Alenina and Vladimir Krasilnikov, founders of A.K.Atelier, to shape their new home, they envisioned a space defined by quiet energy and intention. “From the start, we saw it as an opportunity to create something free of visual noise—where the landscape outside would become the central presence,” the designers recall. LAYOUT AND RHYTHM Set within a wooded plot near Moscow, the 313 m² house unfolds as a quiet sequence of rooms arranged along a single enfilade. The layout includes a sculptural entry, open-plan living spaces, a master suite, and a separate guest wing. A 101 m² terrace runs the length of the façade, extending the interior into the surrounding landscape. ARTS AS EXPERIENCE The interior is composed in a restrained palette of soft black, white, and natural wood. “Every element had to speak the same quiet language,” says Tatyana Alenina. This clarity set the stage for a slow, considered journey through contemporary art—built piece by piece, like moments of stillness. “For us, the architecture itself was a way into the world of contemporary art—something immersive and intuitive.” — Vladimir Krasilnikov The sequence begins with a flock of birds by Vladimir Kustov, floating above a bold wooden bench. Further along, Alexey Gan’s graphite landscapes and vertical metal reliefs establish a quiet rhythm. In the kitchen-dining area, his two-metre abstract canvas inspired a custom console in flowing metal—echoing its tone and stillness. In the living room, a fire crackles beneath a graphic drawing by Kirill Chelushkin. His imagined starship stretches across the wall like a constellation—inviting reflection on form, time, and space. FROM SKETCH TO PRESENCE Throughout the house, Tatyana Alenina and Vladimir Krasilnikov worked with natural materials: marble, engineered oak, thermally treated timber for the terrace, and ceramic granite in the bathrooms. Custom pieces—designed in collaboration with Sergey Kartashov—add sculptural texture: a monumental mirror and bench in the entry, a lava-like dining table, and metal wall lights on the terrace. Alongside these, the interior features carefully selected design icons: a Minotti sofa, PP Møbler armchair, and Provat 0204 rugs in the living room; Cassina chairs and a Philippe Starck barstool in the dining area; and a B&B Italia bed, Pierre Frey drapery, and a Baxter armchair in the master suite. “This is not a space for spectacle. It’s a black-and-white film—an empty page, open to family life and quiet moments.” — Tatyana Alenina

November 2021 | Botany ALEXANDER CAMPBELL an English Florist in Madrid Words Oktay Tutuş He’s only 25, and he’s making a living from flowers – and nailing it. Every day, Alexander Campbell showcases the beauty of his bouquets to his TikTok and Instagram followers, leaving no room for doubt about his talent. From an early age, he learned to appreciate the beauty of flowers while spending time with his grandmother. After deciding to turn his passion into a career, he enrolled in a three-year program at the London Flower School. Perhaps due to his love for the sun, he later moved to Madrid. Here, his days are spent creating stunning bouquets for clients and followers, teaching workshops on the art of floristry, meditating, and building his brand, AC Flower Studio. But don’t just glance at his extraordinary bouquets; they may carry hidden messages through the language of flowers, or "floriography," much like in Victorian England. According to Alexander, flowers have their own language, and what they convey is certainly worth noting—just like the stories Alexander tells. Was working with flowers or plants always your dream job? Not always. I’ve always loved flowers, and they’ve always played an important role in my life. A few years ago, I started searching for who I was and where I wanted to go in life. At that point, I decided to take my passion for flowers more seriously, which eventually turned into my full-time profession. How do you define your profession? Florist or floral designer? Florist or floral designer! Labels don’t really matter much to me. A MEDITATIVE BUBBLE How would you describe your relationship with plants and flowers? It’s very special. Growing up, flowers and gardens were always significant to me. Later on, they became a way for me to understand who I was and what I wanted to do with my life. Flowers also help my mental health because they allow me to enter a meditative “bubble” where my worries and struggles simply fade away. Why are you in Spain right now? I’ve always been truly happy in Spain, and that’s why I’m here now. I first came to Spain when I was 15 to stay with a Spanish family, and ever since that experience, it’s been a very special place for me. Can you name two flowers that, in your opinion, should never be in the same bouquet? Honestly, that’s impossible! I believe that with enough effort, anything can go together. What are the unique qualities that make you special? I can’t answer that! But I always strive to work authentically and with good intentions. If you work authentically, you eventually become unique over time. You must have a favorite flower or flowers… I get asked this question a lot, and it’s really hard to answer. There are so many different flowers out there that I can’t choose just one or two. My favorites change almost weekly. However, there are some I consistently use in my work—hydrangeas, statice, and roses are among my staples.