Everything started with a personal reason to change career and the start off a new business. We have been investing time and energy in the project ‘Cenam Sumo’, that is born as a series of private dinners where food and designed were combined to create a unique and tailor-made eating, social and cultural experiences. The dinners took place at the end of 2011 here in Bangkok. Since then the project has continued to evolve and the second part of the project is currently being developed.

Cenam Sumo is a project that combines food and design to bring people together for a unique dining and meeting experience. We take the initial inspiration from our own culture and traditions – cenam sumo is the Latin word for ‘dining’ – where cooking is more than a everyday gesture but a conviviality ritual to welcome new friends gathered around a table. The meeting experience becomes, therefore, an essential part of the concept behind Cenam Sumo project. Food and design are at the same time part of and means to a social and cultural experience, an occasion to meet new people, sharing ideas, stories and to simply enjoy. Food and design mingle creating unexpected, surprising and yet ideal combinations. The menus draw mostly upon the traditional Italian cuisine: hand made pasta is the main ingredient yet  proposed with unusual combinations. The set designs are unique, conceived to enhance the eating experience by welcoming and wondering the guests. At the same time, each menu and each set-design is thought so as to meet the guests’ characters and characteristics. The flavors, the colours, the shapes, the lights, everything is the result of a careful tailor-made selection that makes the person feeling like at home while experiencing something completely new and sometimes stranger.

A short trip in Singapore, back in Bangkok with a nice products line: Aesop. I love the attention to the detail of this brand such as the linen bag, the catalogue that reminds you a ticket airline, the black and white color, the recycled paper, the hand-creme with a retro shape, the brand is playing with nostalgia feelings mixing together an eco-friendly attention and an accuracy for all details. Lovely!

Nowadays all the interior projects look pretty much the same, a continuous copy and paste without emotional feelings, just perfect projects done by great architects and interior designers. However very few designers have the courage to impose their eccentric character showing their personality and going in different direction, comparing with the styles of the moment. Josephine is one of them. I admire her strong personality and her capacity  to mix minimal contemporary furniture with eclectic pieces of vintage furniture. What makes her projects so unique is the continuos tension between different styles, without being never boring or repetitive. If you look to the following pictures about the apartment Saint Eustache (200m2) you will see a minimal black sofa pared together with an extravagant rose shape armchair. The wood ceiling with white walls creates a crescendo narrative between perfection of pure line design  with antique pieces. Even the kitsch lamp in the living room acquires an unusual charm. Have a look to all her projects as you can see she is quite charming! By the way she has worked for over 20 years in fashion houses as Louis Vuitton, Armani, Celine and Christian Dior in marketing and communication and image, she has discovered recently the passion for architecture and interior. Her philosophy is follow the contrast between German minimalism and French exuberance, let me tell you once again it seems that fashion world trained you to excel even in architecture field…

On Tuesday we went at the Gala premiere of “Lear & his three daughters“, presented by B-Floor Theater company, a dance theatre performance inspired by William Shakespeare‘s “King Lear” and directed by Jaa Phantachat. To those who do not know B-Floor , it  is a thai vanguard physical theater company, for more than 10 years it has created visual theater performances combining movement and multimedia elements. The topics of their performances are strongly connected with social and political issues. Their performances are developed through a process of creative collaboration know as Devised Theatre. During the show Lear & his 3 Daughters the audience was literally hypnotized by the movements of the actors, by the light and sound installations. The entire plot is expressed trough human body language, slow movement mixed with contemporary dance. In a era where we are daily bombarded by sounds seeing a performance expressed only by movements and few sounds gives the audience the chance to think, to reflect on the topics and to be totally immersed in the story and being part of it. Once again B-Floor brings you to an other level of engagement, some scenes are stunning and so full of meaning that you start to shudder even if you are in the open courtyard of the Pridi Banomyong Institute, in Thailand where the temperature is  38 C°.  Lear and his 3 daughetrs explores the love, hatred and the relationship in Lear’s family. In love we dance in hate we shut up You must not miss it!

Below the trailer

Dates: April 26 – May 7, 2012 (no shows on Tues. & Wed.)
Time : 7.30pm
Reservations: 089 167 4039 or bfloortheatre@gmail.com    

Here is the first interview of a series of 10 informal chats with creative minds based in Thailand. A collection of interviews with artists, designers, architects, chefs, fashion artists, theater actors, etc. We have to admit that we are a big fan of this new studio named Upstair! composed by two talented graphic designers and illustrators Pailin Thawornwijit and Minchaya Chayosumrit. The first time we saw their illustrations, works we were amazed by originality of their work. For each question we have asked them to send us a picture relate to their answers, here is what they have sent to us, enjoy reading it!

is upstair !
“We are walking up, working up and playing upon upstair.” Good quality illustration&graphic design for print, book and whatever we can print on from small space on upstair.

01 LS: could you tell us an object to describe yourselves? 

Tarn Pailin: I am a brown bear. I like to spend time alone when I work very much but not in an isolate way. It is like I want to hibernate myself somewhere under the tree and away from other people. Brown bears seem to be lazy but actually they like to go out far to find the best food for themselves – that’s me too. I like seeking different inspiration for myself and I can’t stand still at the same place for a long time.

Min: I think I am a little piece of magnet. For me, each person has his/her own magnetic field. It’s invisible. Sometimes we pulls, attracts and repels other people, other thoughts or idea which make each person individual and unique. Sometimes I feel like floating as a levitated magnet; seemingly free and still but were actually under an ‘invisible’ influence of all the surroundings.

Don’t stay home but take your music with you! Listen to l’Orangerie Vol. 8 on your mobile here!

The heartbreaking bravery…

[Photo and music selection by Valeria Racemoli]

“Reading made Don Quixote a gentleman, but believing what he read made him mad.” [by George Bernard Shaw]

Below our weekly reading list according to each of your needs.

Ettore Sottsass “Pictures from a window”,  published by Adelphi

To whom wants to be captured and fascinated by the eyes of one of the greatest architect designer, who was able to see an hidden world that no one could have seen it before.  A collection of 26 pics with the same number of surreal captions.

Lewis Carroll’s “Alice’s in Wonderland” with artwork by Yayoi Kusama, published by Penguin Group

To whom has kids or recently became an aunt like me, this book is a perfect gift even if it is not only for the kids. Illustrated by Yayoi Kusama, one of the most famous and talented visual artist, I simply adore her. The combination is perfect and I couldn’t resist to buy it, Alice is one of my favorite children’s book and I am a big fan of Yayoi Kusama‘s illustrations. Definitely a book that you must have in your collection, maybe I have to buy an other copy for my niece…

Charles Darwin “Hosts of living forms” published by Penguin Books

“In all cases the new and improved forms of life will tend to supplant the old and improved forms”

To whom likes to read the classics but with a touch of style. The embossed book cover is stunning, I love the idea. It is an irresistible collection that you can not miss it!.

Pushpesh Pant “India cookbook”, published by Phaidon [a nice present from Aj Wittamon, Prim and Bow Thx so much!]

The tagline on the book reads “The only book on Indian food you’ll ever need”, and actually it is true. However I have to admit that the first thing caugh my eyes it was the nice packaging design rather then the recipes. The book is packaged inside a canvas bag. Then the layout of the book is clean and minimal and the pages have different colors. A lovely cookbook that I like to read when I need inspiration.

The Santo Stefano di Sessanioand The Sassi di Matera are part of the same project of The Sextantio to preserve a local heritage. The term of “traditional architectural heritage” is used to describe a vernacular architecture which developed from the needs of the people rather than a specific architectural influence coming from the main urban centers of power. The materials used in the two projects are poor  and strictly locals. Following simple and logical guidelines as maintain the original use, form and materials of the building, leaving the traces of life, following the old traditions in term of furnishing, The Sextantio renovated these two historic villages that where empty or semi-abandones. This was possible thanks a partnership between private and local government. The interiors of two hotels follow the same concept of minimal but cozy feel. However the project in Matera is different from the one in Santo Stefano. The Sassi of Matera have a unique architecture and the interiors of the Sassi have basic decoration where the furniture has been built into the structure as a continuous form.

THE SASSI OF MATERA PROJECT

Matera apart being famous for the Sassi (caves) has an other peculiarity The Albergo Diffuso. Briefly to whom does not know, Matera is the town of the stone houses, a UNESCO world heritage site, a group of  renowned cave building set against Gravina valley. Matera has been a secure shelter for the communities from the Stone Age to the Bronze Age, in more recent period it was a monastic settlement, in more recent period it was a monastic settlement. the Sassi (caves) is a series of caves excavated into the rocks where people once lived with their animals.

The albergo diffuso project (hotel rooms spread across different buildings) is composed by 18 rooms. There is a common space located in an ancient church building. The rooms are located in the oldest part of the Sassi. The entire complex is situated in cave houses. For this project they have preserved the integrity of original spaces, keeping the signs of previous use, the restoration involved the use of antique architectural materials and original furnishing. So following the concept of “conservative restoration” the result is a stunning hotel spread into different sites. The rooms have a kind of spartan allure and everything is a reference to village life. They use just the original architectural materials, with a minimalist design elements, introduced where absolutely necessary. Old furniture and artifacts sourced in the area mixed with modern technology. The result is simply stunning and a continuous refer back to old traditions. Here you can find more information.

[ pics ᔥ http://www.legrottedellacivita.com/ / wonderful website !! ]

THE  SANTO STEFANO DI SESSANIO

The Sextantio Diffused Hotel is located in the medieval town of Santo Stefano di Sessanio in Abruzzo region. All 28 rooms (about 25m²) are different and locate in different houses in the village giving the guest the feeling of being pat of the village. Each room has a kitchenette, a table and chair, a fireplace. They have been very careful to use only the old local materials.

They even conducted a research with the National Museum of Abruzzo and talked to the residents of Santo Stefano to know how people used to live and which materials they used. However the old is mixed with the new technologies and materials for example the bath in the bathroom is done with white Corian.

These two hotels are perfect destination to whom want and research an unique experience.

[ pics ᔥ http://www.sextantio.it/santo-stefano ]

It is all started in 2009 when Jim Thompson, the famous Thai Silk Company, initiated the “Art Center on Farm” a pilot project of art with the aim to build a bridge between art, life and nature, working in the context of Eco Agriculture and North Eastern style architecture. The artists who has participated in the event worked with the re-use of local materials and recycled materials to create art pieces that were displayed in the Jim Thompson Farm. They were inspired by being on the farm, in the factory learning all the silk process, observing the daily life of Jim Thompson employees. They also were inspired by the communities around the factory with their history, myth and legends., etc. The art pieces were displayed around Jim Thompson Farm, where the visitors of the farm can see and interact with the produced art. The Jim Thompson Art Center, realising the importance of expanding this knowledge through art, from rural communities to urban society, has decided to show these works once again but in a different space and context. The project continues and this year they organized an exhibition called  Art on Farm: a diary from the Isan plateau. Below their press release about the event

“The Exhibition Art on Farm: a diary from the Isan plateau features 17 artworks by 19 artists under these subjects: way of life, history, customs and folk wisdom. Artists explored the relationship of the North Eastern way of life and their present life style, which is constantly changing. The remembrance of the familiar such as cooking meals or switching on the radio or TV is a connection for them, like returning home.

Curator: Yuwadee Srihuayyod

Featuring Installation by Dr. Apiradee Kasemsuk and Dr. Nattinee Karnchanaporn, Pitt Martliam, Sutthirat Supaparinya, Pratchaya Phinthong and Worathep Akkabootara.

Story telling is like evidence of the past, showing the way of life, customs and the past history of the people, it is also used as a hidden teaching of past beliefs. The artists tell of the local history from a new perspective through letters, photos and moving images. Video and Sound Installation by Assist. Prof. Songwit Pimpakun, Photography and Book by Kornkrit Jianpinidnan and Video Art by Santiphap Inkong-ngam.

The continuing customs of the Isan people such as the Rocket Festival and Boon Pra Vej Festival are aimed at bringing happiness, abundance and prosperity with the underlying condition of respect for nature and religion and with the hidden objective of bringing about unity within the community. Presented by an Installation by Adisak Phupa and Painting by Montree Moungkun.

The artists adapted recycled materials from the weaving factory and the farm, playing with the physical nature of the material and with the combination of folk wisdom, create a new perception of nature. Featuring Installation by Chakkrit Chimnok and Pattree Chimnok, Sitthikorn Khawsa-ad, Assist.Prof. Dr. Rachaporn Choochuey & all(zone), Disorn Duangdao, Sudsiri Pui-Ok and Sculpture by Imhathai Suwatthanasilp.”  To have more info have a look here

Below some images of the opening event. Go and have a look you can not miss it!

On the cover our favorite piece of the entire exhibition: the art pieces of Assist.Prof. Dr. Rachaporn Choochuey & all(zone), we love it!

To listen to l’Orangerie on your iPhone, iPad and other mobile devices just click here!! Enjoy!!

The eternal optimist…

[Photos and music selection by Valeria Racemoli]

They say that we are what we eat. Then why don’t let food inspire us when we approach a new project, especially when it comes to design. Here’s the recipe: take your favourite type of pasta, solve the mathematic equations of its shape and let it ispire you! My all time favourite is gnocchi, also known as:

α_i,j := 1/40 · sin(j/130 · π)
β_i,j:= | cos(j+13/26 · π) |
Π_i,j := 0,2 · cos(1/40 · 1,3 · π) · sin (j/130 · π) · β_i,j + α_i,j · cos(1/40 · 1,3 · π)
Θ_i,j := 0,2 · cos(1/40 · 1,3 · π) · sin (j/130 · π) · β_i,j + α_i,j · cos(1/40 · 1,3 · π)
Κ_i,j := 1,5 · cos(j/130 · π)

ranges: i := 0,1 .. 40 j := 0,1 .. 30

All the pasta equations have been collected in one unique book Pasta by Design by George L. Legendre, published by Thames & Hudson.

Ready to eat&design? Buon appetito!

[Hand-made gnocchi by Valeria Racemoli]

If you have had the chance to look to the latest fashion shows you have noticed that the latest trend in fashion is blue. Blue was also the favorite color of Jeanne Lanvin, the cornflower shade of blue. In her spectacular Art Deco apartment in 16 rue Barbet de Jouy, in Paris, decorated by Armand-Albert Rateau, the blue  is the main color in her bedroom. To create the “Blue Lanvin” Jeanne was inspired by the sky of Fra Angelico frescoes,  the silk walls in her bedroom are breathtaking and it seems to be inside the painting “The Virgin of the Annunciation”. For the bathroom the color palette is black and cream, extremely elegant and sophisticated, the use of marble, full of hand-crafted details as the carved sink, the cast bronze hardware, the mosaic floor, etc. The marble gives the “allure” of ancient Rome. Unfortunately the  apartment was destroyed in 1965, however the complete decoration and furniture of the bedroom and bathroom was saved and given to the Musée des Arts Décoratifs.

Lovely detail.

I met Federico Peltretti a couple of days after the opening of his exhibition ‘Old Women, New Romanticism’ in Bologna, Italy: 3 8mm short-movies in-camera edit on 3 different interpretations of Romanticism. Federico is a very talented Italian photographer, with many years of experience in the fashion system in New York. During our chat he told me a bit about himself, his work, his approach to photography, how much he enjoys listening to old movies and falling asleep with Paris, Texas of Ry Cooder.

Federico, can you tell me how this idea came up in the first place, I mean why Romanticism as theme for your first video work?

I think it was really because of the absence of poetry around me. When I thought for the first time about doing these videos I had been living in NY for about 4 years. During that time one thing that I really missed was to have some poetry in my life, like for example the possibility to watch movies d’essay. I am someone who loves watching, but even just listening to old movies. Just the voices of those actors make me relax and feel good. And the stories…those movies really had a story, something to tell you.

I think this lack of poetry made me suffer in some way, and this sufference was the trigger, what inspired me to make these videos.To give myself some poetry. I think that through sufference you really see what is important for you.

How did you transform this idea into a movie?

Well, I did pretty much everything and with very limited budget and resources. I chose the models, the customs, the music and I did the lights. The rest we can safely say that is the result of casualty…also because I think that fundamentally nothing happens just by chance.

In terms of reference and inspiration, the first movies is inspired by François Truffeau. I made the model wear the wedge shoes on the beach because I wanted her to express a sense of imperfect gracefulness. The second movie is a hipnotic gipsy loop. I feel like a gipsy, in the sense that for me home is wherever you feel good and it doesn’t have to be always the same place. Then the third and last one (also my favourite one) is a reference to Fritz Lang’s cinema, made of long aching movies, the kind that I love. The three of them really represent a path for me along the idea of Romanticism and what is left today of it.

So, is Romanticism still alive?

Yes, Romanticism is alive, but today to be a romantic you need to be classy even more than before. I think that women should feel the need themselves to have class and not only to be object, even if beautiful one. For me Romanticism comes from that, the ability to seduce someone with something more that just beauty, even something hardly perceptible like a the way of walking or a gesture. But for many nowadays Romanticism is just like pornography.

Here is the teaser of Federico Peltretti’s video project:

How is Federico Peltretti as a photographer? What does he like?

I love to be free and I love to leave some casualty in my photos. I am not someone that takes many photos. I know, you feel when you got the right one. Then the rest are just images, reproductions of the photography. Images are like clichè, they lack of ideas and poetry. Then I also think that is very important to contaminate yourself, with people, places, cultures to get inspired. But you need to be careful and understand who are the right people to have around, the ones that do you good and sometimes this might mean that is better to be just by yourself.

You said that you’ve always used to watch (and listen to) a lot of movies. Can you suggest me some?

Mmmh, well, first of all I should say that I only watch certain movies at certain times of the day or when there is a specific weather. I think that when you screen a movie you fill the room and create a certain atmosphere so it’s very important to take in consideration also the external elements.

For example, a movie that you should absolutely watch when it rains in the afternoon is “L’homme et la Femme” of De Luc. Or a movies for the morning is “À bout de souffle” of Jean-Luc Godard. And the movie that I would take with me on the moon is “Blade Runner” of Ridley Scott.

You can see Federico Peltretti’s work on his website. Here are some of my favourite. Thank you very much, Federico!

[Images courtesy by Federico Peltretti]

Isn’t a surprise to see Freitag producing a bag good for cyclists.

The F60 is a perfect mix of design and utility, maybe you cannot go around the city with a baguette or a yoga mat but I would love to have anyway a basket on my fixed bike. You just need to fix on your mind what you need a basket or a baguette? Then buy it or not, at the meantime, watch this really usefull instruction video.

thanks to Freddy Ventriglia (Fixedrome) for the suggestion.

Once upon a time there were fur coats. And they were elegant and beautiful. And there were talented and trained hands that made them, patiently day after day, chasing perfection.
Back in my hometown, in Italy, I met one of those women that from the late ’50s for more than 20 years worked as a furrier for an importan fur atelier, Dal Sommo. She told me about a time when everything was made according to the client’s desires, and the people working in the industry where not only employees but real artisans able to give those desires a form.

“I started learning the job when I was 11 years old: the process, the cuts, the different types of furs. But it was really when I moved into the Dal Sommo atelier that I became a professional cutter. The owner, Mr. Dal Sommo, taught me and the other girls everything … well almost everything. Still now that I’m already retired I think that this is a kind of job where there is always something to learn.”

What is the most difficult part when realizing a fur coat?

“Well definitely to know how to cut the furs and to put them together so that they seem like coming from the same piece. It takes experience, but it is also a matter of eye, a natural gift. I was particularly good in creating fur coats from leopard fur and cheetah fur. I just loved them. But they were also the most difficult ones, especially when assembling and welding different pieces of fur without that the eye can notice it.”

Can you tell us more about the process and how long did it take?

“Well the time really depended on the client’s requests and the manufacturing involved, so it was very different for each piece. But I can say, usually, at least 5 to 7 days for one fur. Evrerything started with the client visiting the atelier to chose the model she liked. It was the pattern maker who staid with the client and helped her trying the different clothes. Then once the client had chosen the model she wanted, the pattern maker transformed the cloth into a paper model of the fur. And it was only at that point that my part of the work, the cutting and the assembling, started. Once this was done, the fur was literally nailed to the table so that it could properly strecht. Then the client came to the atelier for a first fitting of her fur coat. If everything was ok, the fur coat was given to the tailor for finishing it – making the hemlines or the pockets if requested. And then, only at the very end, the fur coat was ready to be lined, of course by someone in the atelier who was specialized only in the lining.”

Can you tell us something about the trends and how the client’s taste has changed and evolved?

“In the late ’50s and in the ’60s I remember that the fox fur and the sable fur were really in fashion. And not only for women, but also for men. We did so many fur coats for men, especially of wolf fur on the outside and mink fur on the inside. We also made hats coordinated with the fur coat.”

How do you feel after all this years, thinking back at that golden age?

“I don’t think I could have done anything else in my life. Being an artisan, creating something…I really hope that all this doesn’t get lost, that is not forgiven even though the battle against fur coat has been intense in these years. But the artisan work is really something special that needs to be protected.”

[Christian Dior, 1947 Collection]

That you like to wear it or not, fur has something powerful in itself that few other articles of clothing have. In his book called ‘Iconologia’ [Iconology] of 1593, Cesare Ripa describes the Libido as a woman covered in leopard fur because, he says: ‘like the fur of the leopard that is spotted, the mind of the lustful man is stained of bad thoughts and illicit desires’.

Last friday, in Rome, opened the first contemporary photography gallery, the Bloo Gallery - a new really curated exhibition space right in the heart of San Lorenzo, the historically popular neighborhood. The American photographer Andrew Bush was chosen to cut the ribbon and expose his Vector Portraits series.

His work tells the spirit of Los Angeles city through singular drivers’ snaps. He shows us different subject of the social classes often stuck inside the famous Californian traffic junctions, it’s a series if we think about a total random selection of cars, people, colors and places. But at the end of the first exhibition round, I drunk my glass of wine and started to think that maybe I would have liked to see a more strict selection of subjects, of those old men/women so relaxed inside their old 70′s cars. Maybe is my vintage cult spirit? Don’t worry Andrew I can wait.

During those weeks Andrew will work on a new series about Rome, will he shoot typical Roman people yelling in line inside Smarts?

If they said so we can, at least, leave them the time to prove it. Till then, we can watch Cycle Me Home trailer. Basically it’s the bike trip from Madrid to Budapest ride by Levi, a film student, who decided to go back home by its fixie and asked to people on its path to follow him to the end at Sziget festival. Would you have done that?

Thanks to my friend Ignacio some years ago I discovered the chef Francis Mallmamm, he is an Argentine celebrity star and one of the most prominent chefs of Latin America. When I was living in Mexico with my friends, who are Argentine, there was a weekly appointment that we could not miss for any reason: to watch his tv program (elgourmet.com). Apart of being always elegant and stylist, every times he was cooking in an incredible place creating a tempororary open set for every recepies. I love his attention for details and the set design of the Tv program. He was traveling all Argentina, cooking surrounded by nature, especially in Patagonia. He is against “modern” cooking techniques preferring the old ones; for him  “cooking is not an art, it’s a craft that you learn by doing hundreds and thousands of times”. Today I just remembered him because I found his Garzon Hotel and Restaurant that he opened in Uruguay in 2004. The hotel is located in a oldest building with 5 bedrooms, a small library, a dining room facing the kitchen. The interiors reflect perfectly his eclectic and sophisticate personality. I like the rustic touch mixed with french colonial style.  [thank you Nacho]

Here is cooking next to the street, amazing! i love his Argentine accent…

Here the landscape is breathless.

Sonori-kaะ is a Bangkok-based music project that will cover the independent music scene gravitating around the Thai capital!! Armed of our camera and our passion for music we will tour the city to offer you every week new interviews, videos, and pictures … to culminate in the next months in the first Sonori-kaะ live event! Stay tuned!!! And don’t forget to visit our Projects page for more information!!

Sonori-kaะ คือโปรเจ็คดนตรีที่จะครอบคลุมวงการดนตรีอินดี้ในมหานคร รวมไปถึง วงดนตรี, โปรดิวเซอร์, ค่ายเพลง, event organizers, คลับต่างๆ, ดีเจ, ร้านเพลง และอื่นๆอีกมากมาย
เมื่อมีกล้องถ่ายรูปอยู่ข้างๆและความหลงไหลในดนตรี พวกเราจะเดินทางทั่วกรุงเทพเพื่อเสาะหา บทสัมภาษณ์, วีดีโอและภาพถ่ายต่างๆทุกอาทิตย์ สำหรับ live event ครั้งแรกของ Sonori-kaะ
ที่กำลังจะเกิดขึ้นในอีกไม่กี่ เดือนข้างหน้านี้!

Week 10

Our second interview of 2012 is dedicated to a young but already with very unique sound. They are PLOT, also produced by the independent label SO::ON Dry Flower (SODF) that we so love! Their first EP was characterized by lyrics with a strong social aspect and a punk rock sound, while for their first full lenght album the Bangkok trio seems to be enjoying experimenting more with electronic. We had the pleasure to meet them at SOL, and this is what they told us!

PLOT: “We started working on our first EP when we were very young and we had a kind of pretentious attitude to things and this was reflected on our music,especially our lyrics. We were very much more into politics and we focused more on what was happening to the other people. It’s not like we renegade those years, to the contrary, they are part of who where are. It’s just that now we feel more the need to focus on ourselves, our lives, feelings and experience. And we want our music to be inspired by these things. Working on the new album we realized that we have changed and that we wanted to express different things in a different way. We have been trying to save our signature, our identity, but the sounds are going to be less hard and heavy and more reflective, like we are.”

Sonori-kaะ: “Is there anything or anyone in particular that inspires you and your approach to music composition?”

PLOT: “We read and watch movie and we listen to a lot of music but at the same time we don’t really have a specific reference. Maybe it’s because we feel we are still young so we prefer to explore everything for now. Also we think that at the end of the day the skills are what really matter! Practicing everyday at home and with the band is really what are life is about at the moment.”

Sonori-kaะ: What do you feel are the biggest challenges?”

PLOT: ” Money!! There are no for the scene in Thailand. Youngsters don’t really look for different genre and search for what is going on other than the mainstream Grammy things. We have been very lucky to have found Koichi and the label, SODF!! It’s a pity because there are so many good artist in the Thai independent music without support!”

Sonori-kaะ: “Do you think that being Thai influence in some way the way you write music or do you feel completely distant from you music tradition?”

PLOT: “Each of us has his own world where he lives in, and it’s only when we play togethe that this worlds really collide and in some way we fix each other and we feel like we are fulfilling ourselves. Our culture … well, we think it comes out in the way we write songs, like a Thai person that looks at the world and at things from the Thai perspective. Maybe is not traditional,but is definitely the new Thai way!”

Stay tuned for more news from the Thai independent music scene!! And if you want know more about SODF and their artists, you can read our previous posts:

Sonori-kaะ #5 // Music Labels You Wanna Know

Sonori-kaะ #8 // SODF Sneak Peak

Sonori-kaะ #9 // Desktop Error

Few days ago I was walking when suddenly I stopped in from of a display window of a furniture shop in Bangkok and an unusual lamp captured my attention. It is a handmade lamp with a lipstick shape, I started to reflect about having such seductive object at home on the bookshelves, small tables or next to the window. Lipsticks and consequently lips has always been a seductive and a strong reference for artists, designers, fashion designers. It is in everyone memories the painting “Lips” of surrealist Man Ray or the Salvador Dali’s satiny sofa “Mae West Lips Sofa”. From the other hand some artists like Wolf Vollman associated the re-lips with serious topics and reference in fact in his painting “Lipstick Bomber” 1963 instead of having a falling of bombs we have a lipsticks one. Below a series of pictures, furniture, paintings, objects, sculpture about this topic, enjoy and I hope you get inspired.

“L’heure de l’observatoire – Les Amants (Observatory Time – The Lovers)”, by Man Ray .

“The Mae West Lips Sofa” designed by Savador Dalì 1937

“Rubi Lips Pin” designed by Savador Dalì

“Glass lipsticks” (2006) by artist Jungnelius. [photo: Fina Sundqvist]

Lego superstars Dee & Ricky  “50 limited edition Chanel lipstick bullets”. [photo: highsnobiety.com]

“Lipstick building” model  designed by John Burgee Architects with Philip Johnson

Above “Lipstick Ascending Caterpillar Tracks” by sculptor Claes Oldenburg. It is a permanent installation at Yale University’s Morse Collage. [photo: Michael Marsland/Yale University]

Above 2,214 unique lipsticks sculpted by Chilean Artist Livia Marin. Each lipstick is unique piece. [photo: Livia Marin]

“Colonna Recisa Trasversalmente-Lipstick” by Arnaldo Pomodoro.

Janet Zweig  “Lipstick Enigma” made by 1200 resin lipsticks, powered by 1200 stepper motors and controlled by 60 circuit boards. [photo: whokilledbambi.co.uk]

During last days I’m searching for moods to realize wedding invitations for my best friend.

Her suggestions from Oh So Beautiful Paper are about 50′s style and, that’s why surfing around, I found out that I’m totally lost in this decade, more than I’ve ever thought.

So now I want a Cadillac and tail fin lights on my shoes as Prada has done for its new SS2012 collection.

Soundtrack:

Funnel of Love – Duck and Cover
Dirt – Tobacco
Musaphonic – Tom Recchion
Kids – Sleigh Bells
Written All Over Your Face – Ariel Pink

Tonight I think I’ll walk alone,
I’ll find my soul as I go home…

Want to liste to l’Orangerie on your iPhone / iPad?! Click here!!

Last week I received an email advertising a new kind of floor, generally I do not pay much attention to this kind of email, but this image captured my attention. For all day I had on my mind the picture of the beautiful floor of black marquinia and oak. I have a passion for the old stone and marble floor and I think that Italy should preserve in a more efficient way the craftsmanships in which we are known all around the world. Going back to the email I started to research about Palazzo Morelli, a company that does exclusive surfaces, preserving the old techniques. I discovered also that aside Palazzo Morelli Interiors there is Palazzo Morelli Gallery, a contemporary art gallery. Surprisedly both activities are connected, a very interesting combination where each part can have benefits from the other one in term of constant inspiration between art and craftsmanship. The gallery has its own permanent exhibition with current exhibitions. If you have the chance to pass by I warmly suggest to visit the gallery and the company too. The floors are so stunning!

Below few pictures of Palazzo Morelli‘s current exhibition of Mario Consiglio, “Once Were Monkeys”

Below a selection of the exclusive surface of Palazzo Morelli that I like, have a look and being inspired.

Today I have received a beautiful email, it was the wedding invitation of one of my friends. I love the fact that she sent all the invitation today on Valentine’s Day. I have to admit that it is extremely rare to receive a wedding invitation nowadays…I truly believe that the most revolutionary people are the one who are getting married. I like to think that they are the last romantic people. To celebrate this news I have decided to make a list of romantic behaviors. I do not like the commercial aspect of this day but I like the romantic behaviors behind this day. So make sure that you are following these suggestions and your Valentine too. It is not necessary spend money to celebrate Valentine. [congratulation to P&B!]

-Wake up earlier than usual to have enough time to do breakfast together.

[Above: handmade blackberry jam tart and black illy coffee.]

-Prepare an intimate dinner, the set design is important as well the right music.

-Take your Valentine to see an exhibition [Above: Ailadi exhibition at St Regis]

-Find a old country or world map and sign your future destinations, all the cities, places where you have always dreamt to go.

-Prepare his or her favorite cocktail.

-lissening a old lp disk

Happy Valentine’s day to all of you

In a small town called Vernasca in the North East of Italy there’s a place where contemporary music and artisan’s experience meet. This place is Hundebiss. Funded 5 years ago by Simone Trabucchi, this music label releases LPs that are real hand-made artworks. Each piece is not only beautifully done, but it shows an intimate relation with the music, enhancing and adding value to the musical/audio experience. While many labels are now used to release special editions with a nice design, Hundebiss is trying to elevate the visual experience to its best, where every details from the colour, to the design and even the paper chosen is in relation with the music.

When we think about new kind of jobs, we always forget that the old craftsjobs are still interesting and full of creativity.

That’s what Gram & Grain wants to show us and, maybe, to suggest men. A nice old American style graphic, the structure is more similar to a real printed journal than a blog. Interviews and beautiful pictures.

What more, please Gram & Grain, continues to looking for new issue and do you propaganda!

Grain & Gram: Blair Sligar, Woodworker from Grain & Gram on Vimeo.

The other day one of my friends, while going through my notebook full of pictures, pointed at one of them and then told me “Ah, I see! You chose this picture because of the wallpaper, haven’t you?!” I replied that I have selected this picture not for that detail but for the wooden floor in fishbone pattern. Then looking carefully I realized that yes, the wallpaper was nice. He told me that it was the Vivienne Westwood wallpaper collection. I didn’t know that Vivienne Westwood has done with Cole & Son a wallpaper series based on some of her most celebrated designes as squissle print. Here is what I have found. I love it! [thanks Jason]

The story of this house seems a fairy tale story but it is real. Ok the story starts with a castle/house  in the middle of the Mediterranean sea; located on one of the little islands of archipelago Li Galli known also as The Sirenusas or Sirenuse in italian. The 3 small islands are not too far from the Amalfi coast and the name, Sirenuse, is a reference to the the mythological sirens said to have lived there, the sirens myth from Homer’s Odyssey. Now in the middle of one of these 3 islands there is a castle-like structure, built in the roman era as a defense then transformed into a monastery. It was only when a Russian Choreographer and dancer Leonide Massine visited the island that the castle was converted into a private residence. Massine restored the place with a dance studio and a open theater, that unfortunately was destroyed by a storm. Now if you think that this story is already incredible you have to add an other detail. His friend le Corbusier designed the villa how you can see nowardays facing Positano with a large terrace. On 1988 when Massine died and the greatest dancer of all the time purchased the place the Russian dancer Rudolf Nureyev. He redecorated the villa in the Moorish style and clad its interiors with 19th century tiles from Seville. I have to admit that this place has been touched by Gods and you can see it. Below some images, have a look.

I was surfing on the net when I have found this amazing Self-Interview of Karl Lagerfeld done to launch his new collection KARL. You will see the famous fashion designer as never before. This was the first time he interviewed himself on camera and he claims it will be the last… Watch the video to know what he really thinks about himself, his world, his vision, his life, etc. You can hate or love, but you cannot forget him.

Shop the Karl collection at Net-a-porter

“I am never happy with myself…I do not delivery description of my person you have  what you see.”

“The only secret of my success is work and perhaps a decent life do not drink, smoke to not take drugs… Depends how much you want to do… Don’t think you are a victim of the system, I do not believe on that at all if somebody in this business believes to be  a victim of the system he/she should do something else.”

“I have never prepared anything I am totally improvised person but very professional improvisation.”

“There are person and country who are beyond chic.”

“Every day should be perfect, it is up to you to work to make your day perfect, it is a question of will and discipline”

At the moment I have found extremely interesting some artists-craftsman designer as Ico Parisi, Aldo Tura an other one who can be add in my list is Ado Chale, belgian artist born in Brussels in 1928. Since his first creation, he has shown an original and unique style. He has an authentic passion for stones that has bring him all around the world to research the most noble, rare materials as fossil wood, tiger’s eye, lapis lazuli, agate,malachite, etc. His furniture incorporates these exotic materials with in cast metals. Chale’s low tables and consoles are the most sought pieces of his oeuvre. Many of his tables rest on his signature tripod bases. Simply elegant and stunning pieces. Below my selection.

A bronze occasional table, if you to buy it here is the link to Christies.

Rare fossilised wood in black resin

Cast aluminum console table by Ado Chale, France, 1970. Two inch thick top with cast concentric circles design.

An early and rare haematite and black resin coffee table on a chrome base signed and with ruby inset.

If I have to named one icon of style that I have always admired I would definitely say Iris Apfel. The American interior and  fashion designer has always ruled the creative world of fashion and interior design. Apart from being a charismatic person, with a strong personality, she is a truly revolutionary person, who has always broken all the rules. In an era where everyone wants to look younger, where the plastic surgery and botox injections have became a daily trend as to drink a glass of water - nowadays the botox-party are a “Must” in the USA even between young women – she is declaring herself against any chirurgical practise. At the tender age of 90, Iris Apfel is ruling the world launching her collection for MAC products. MAC says the range is “a color collection inspired by a rare bird who has always been ahead of her time.” She couldn’t have done it better and she couldn’t be more provocative than in her last advertisement; where she is showing to the world the power of one of the latest ladies. Below her advertisement for MAC products. In her collection there are 4 limited edition shades and lipstick as: Flamingo (light milky bright coral), Morange (loudmouth orange), Party Parrot (bright red-pink), Pink Pigeon (bright cleanest pink), and Scarlet Ibis (bright orange-red). I want to buy the entire collection!

“But style is like charisma. You know it when you see it.” by Iris Apfel

“Fashion really is women’s liberation in a lot of way.” by Iris Apfel

Below you can find few images about her apartment in Manhattan, where she lives with her husband, Carl. It is a 3 bedroom apartment. She started as a fashion designer and then after a while she has started to work into interior design field after the Second World War II. It is in this field that she demonstrated us her talent; with such incredible catching eyes to found from flea markets precious and refined kinds of furniture. It was her unique eye for furnishing and objects that brought her success. Recently AD [Architectural Digest]  magazine has published an interview about her, here is article Iris Apfel’s exuberant apartment [AD]. Below some images taken from the AD  publication.

“I can’t tell people how to have style. No amount of money can buy you style. It’s just instinctive.” by Iris Apfel

“I guess people thought if I could decorate myself I could decorate a room or two,” by Iris Apfel

“(My look is) either very baroque or very zen, everything in between makes me itch.” by Iris Apfel

” I don’t follow trends or the hottest fashion. I buy what I like and my taste are quite catholic, haute couture to street fashion. Pieces that are zen, simple or madly baroque. I love ethnic as well as contemporary. I’m fond of serious and adore amusing. I try to make all these things work together.” by Iris Apfel

Here is the link to her jewelry collections, have a look!

Nature is always an endless source of references. Natural Onyx is a beautiful, intriguing and quite rare material and it can be used in different way to give a touch of character and dramatic effect into a space. Onyx is a form of quartz stone, it has many colors: yellow, green, red, white, etc. The rich look of this stone can give grace to every space. Below a visual reference library that it may inspired you. I love onyx!

Michael Smith’s shower is entirely clad in Sunset onyx.

Handcrafted banded onyx vase

Example of beautiful onyx wall.

Gilbert Poillerat table, the round top is in onyx.

Boetto Lamp designed by Angelo Mangiarotti 

In this case I love the contrast between the minimalist shape and this ancient material.

Onyx sink designed by Antonio Lupi 

Above an example of onyx used to create a piece of art. She, onyx, 184 x 124 x 40 cm, Bojan Šarčević, 2010.

Vonturi green onyx silk, I like this series of silk.

Text by: Perla Valtierra [Paris] // 22.01.12

Sunday we spend the afternoon at Paul Smith Fall/Winter 2012 show.
It was amazing to see all the people working behind it, taking care of last minute details!

Inspired  for a nautical theme the title was Portobello-on-Sea.
Clothes had such nice cuts and fabrics, in dark blue and with a touch of fluoro accents.
The photos of the show are from Marie Taillefer. Here is the link

And if you want to see to see the entire collection click here.

Enojoy!

If I have to appoint the name of a designer who has realized the most elegant and graceful pieces of furniture I would say Ico Parisi. He was an italian architect/designer. The majority of his remarkable production of drawing, sculptures, furniture and design projects is preserved in the Pinacoteca Civica of Como, the archive is curated by his faithful collaborator Stefania Sala. Among all his work I love his pieces of furniture caracterized by a timeless elegance. Below my favorite pieces.

I am mesmerized by the beauty of the scissor legs of the Hallway Console. Beautiful!

This Console is so elegant.

Dining Table, once again the legs are so stunning.

An elegant sofa, purple fabric upholstery.

Magazine Table, pure architecture.

A rare and interestingly formed console table. The design gives a visually  lightweight.

Below a fantastic wall unit with three X supports.Very chic!

I love this desk with rosewood top, nickel details, and enameled steel legs and stretcher.

My favorite piece is Uovo Armchair.

Sometimes you think you know the place where you live so well that nothing more can surprise you. The streets, the neighborhoods, the mix of people and cultures. But is it really like this? On Saturday 28 January at 6pm the exhibition ‘See What I See’ will open up in Bangkok at Toot Yung Gallery. A photography exhibition like many others except for the photographers: 7 urban refugees, who for two months have photographed their lives in the Thai capital, where no one would expect them to be. They come from China, Cambodia, Congo, Iran, Pakistan and Sri Lanka and next Saturday you can join them to experience a different side of the city, different ways and reasons to be in Bangkok, to change your perspective on the city for one evening.

‘See What I See’ is a project by Molly Mullen and Valeria Racemoli hosted by the Jesuit Refugee Service – Thailand.

Sonori-kaะ is a Bangkok-based music project that will cover the independent music scene gravitating around the Thai capital!! Armed of our camera and our passion for music we will tour the city to offer you every week new interviews, videos, and pictures … to culminate in the next months in the first Sonori-kaะ live event! Stay tuned!!! And don’t forget to visit our Projects page for more information!!

Sonori-kaะ คือโปรเจ็คดนตรีที่จะครอบคลุมวงการดนตรีอินดี้ในมหานคร รวมไปถึง วงดนตรี, โปรดิวเซอร์, ค่ายเพลง, event organizers, คลับต่างๆ, ดีเจ, ร้านเพลง และอื่นๆอีกมากมาย
เมื่อมีกล้องถ่ายรูปอยู่ข้างๆและความหลงไหลในดนตรี พวกเราจะเดินทางทั่วกรุงเทพเพื่อเสาะหา บทสัมภาษณ์, วีดีโอและภาพถ่ายต่างๆทุกอาทิตย์ สำหรับ live event ครั้งแรกของ Sonori-kaะ
ที่กำลังจะเกิดขึ้นในอีกไม่กี่ เดือนข้างหน้านี้!

Week 9

Issue number 9 of Sonori-kaะ is dedicated to one of the most famous rock-experimental band active in Thailand: Desktop Error. The band’s members – Aof (guitar), Lek (vocal/guitar), Tui (bass), Bird (guitar) and Meng (drums) – met in school. What brought them together was their common love for alternative rock from the ’90s: “We started playing covers at Lullabar. Then playing some much time together, it felt natural to start writing our own music.”

Sonori-kaะ: How was joining your label So::On Dry Flower – SODF (we spoke about the in one previous post)?

Desktop Error: “SODF is a small label that is looking for alternative and experimental music. We met in 2006. At that time we already had some songs written that we were playing at festivals and as soon as we joined the label we published our first EP. Our label, SODF, plays a big part in the definition of our sound. They understand the way we want to go, this is how ‘So::On’ label works. Koichi, our producer, is like a brother for us. He listens to what we write and then he guide us. He never interferes with our songwriting but he’s great in helping us fixing what doesn’t work, finalizing the song and giving us feedback so that we can come out with something that represents ourselves in the best possible way. We are really like a family.”

Sonori-kaะ: How would you describe yourself, your identity and your sound? What is Desktop Error all about?

Desktop Error: “Actually, I know that it may sound contradictive but it’s the imperfection, the irrationality. Each one of us has his own character and his own way of playing and creating a sound and what we do is to put all them together to try to create perfection.

Talking in terms of music genre we see ourselves as Thai Alternative Rock; but if we put it in another way, like what kind of rock band are we, I will have to say “experimental”. And this not only because we try to create new sounds, but because we try to offer something new, a different attitude and way of playing music in Thailand. We try to think differently from the mainstream Thai music, and also to offer something different from the other rock bands in Thailand. We know that we are not the kind of sold-out-records-artist. We do our best to make people wanting going back and listen to us again and again.”

Sonori-kaะ: How do you see your future? What would you like from it?

Desktop Error: “It’s hard to say where we will be in the future. Maybe we will experiment even more, doing things that we don’t dare to do now, creating sounds that are not perfect or pure. For sure we are not going to stop soon. We want to tour outside Thailand. But the best thing would be if in the future people would go back and listen to us, to our old albums, over and over. This would be absolutely awesome!!! And of course, we would like the mainstream music in Thailand to change, that also other genre of music could sale more.

Sonori-kaะ: At the end of 2011 you toured different club in Bangkok and Chiang Mai together with other bands from your label to promote Burning, a live film/documentary about the world famous Scottish band Mogwai. They played live for the first time in Thailand on December 2nd. How do you feel about big bands like this coming here? Do you think that it will help bringing more audiences to alternative rock and in general to independent music?

Desktop Error: “What SODF and Lullaby entertainment did, bringing Mogwai to Thailand, was absolutely great as they break the rules and brought here the artist that no one would expect to see live in this country. It’s been a wonderful gift for those who, like us, have been growing up listening to international music and of course we hope that more organizers in the future will have guts to bring other good bands to play here, to offer more choices to the youths.”

To listen more tunes from Desktop Error just visit they Myspace Page!

Thank you guys!!!

Can’t wait to know what it’s gonna be next in Sonori-kaะ?!?! Here is a little preview:

On of my favorite italian designers is Aldo Tura, he was an artist-craftsman who in 1930s started to manufacture and design furniture. I adore his pieces for the innovative forms, materials and for the accuracy in producing each piece in a limited series. What I like the most of Tura’s furnitures, accessories, etc. is the highest technique to realize them and the strong colors used as red, green , yellow. His distinctive and unmistakable signs are the use of leather such as goatskin and the bronze details. Below a selection of my favorite pieces. Please if you have more information regarding Aldo Tura do not hesitate to write us.

An elegant indigo-blue lacquered goatskin console by Aldo Tura, Italy, circa 1968. The goatskin has natural variation in color giving the surface subtlety and depth. The top and doors are lacquered goatskin, and the back and sides are black lacquered ash wood. The left hand and center doors open to reveal drawers.  

 

More you can find here

I have recently developed an obsession for malachite, I like the pattern and the green color shade of this stone. In ancient time this stone was considered royal. I have done a little research about the use of this stone, I look forward to using it for my next project.

A Set of Twelve Vintage Piero Fornasetti Malachite Large Plates, Circa 1960. Here is the link where you can find it.

A limited edition of the Bottega Veneta clutch; inspired by a model of 1993. it is woven Ayers snakeskin in vivid malachite green, with purple suede lining and closure antiqued gold-plated brass.

This rug [Roubini Rugs] gives definitely a stylish touch an old hotel room or a grey lobby.

Adding some malachite objects it gives a more sophisticated aspect to the room.

Smythsons malachite notebook.

A incredible interior by Michael Szell. 

A fine pair of Art Deco style hexagonal shaped malachite vases, here is the link.

Christian Dior Autum collection 2o11

Set Christian Dior china dinnerware. In the “Malachite” pattern.

Malachite wall finishing, tableware and malachite cotton pattern tablecloth. Tony Duquette  (Duquette’s home in LA)

Interior designer Kelly Wearstler for her project “Viceroy Miami” used malachite pattern.

Malachite screen

I have always thought that it is not by chance that we meet extraordinary people, but it happens for a specific reason. The first time I met Ailadi, it was almost 7 years ago and since that time she had shown a strong and recognizable style line in her drawings. She has been drawing since she was a child as self-taught, and her style has evolved from an essential continuous black line, to colorful and very detailed artworks and back to minimal monochrome color. She experiments different techniques, materials, using nib pen & colored ink, acrylic, watercolor, oil, monotype, plasticine, photography, computer graphics and collage. I had the opportunity to see her talent growing up and if someone would have told me that we would have meet again after 7 years in Bangkok, having the chance to follow closely the organization of her solo exhibition  I would probably find hard to believe on. Well, let me tell you that this became true. Ailadi solo exhibition, curated by Tommaso Maggio started on January 10, 2012 at the hotel St. Regis Bangkok. For the opening event there was organized an intimate dinner with selected guests, a rare experience event savoring four-course dinner created by Chef Leonardo Concezzi. For the occasion VIU International Grill Restaurant at the St. Regis Bangkok was transformed into an artistic atelier. The menu was created based on a special color selection:

white [celeriac mousse, atlantic scallops wrapped in colonnata lard, burrata cheese spuma, caramel nuts, snow fish carpaccio].
green [house made artichoke ravioli, green pea buffalo mozzarella foam].
red [warm wagyu beef tartar, slow cooked venison, tuscany farm bruschetta].
blue [curacao granite, thai herbs infused souse,sweet egg yolk, cold San Pellegrino with bollicine liquid].

The exhibition will run until January 14, 2012. During all week Ailadi will create original art works documenting her life.  I warmly suggest to have a look to her micro paintings series [4cmx4cm], she has started this series when she has moved to Shanghai. It is a kind of physical micro diary, where she draws what happens to her during the day. What I most like of this series is the use of animal stickers as her head to underline the influences that she gets living in China. To whom is not familiar with Asia culture these stickers are a trend in this side of the world. Congratulation Aila!

Below behind the scene // a day before the opening

Below the opening painting diary // StRegis Bangkok January 10, 2012

Below the opening event Ailadi solo exhibition // StRegis Bangkok January 10, 2012

Below the intimate dinner menu created by Chef Leonardo Concezzi with Ailadi illustrations.

I have always thought that fashion’s influence is very strong in the architecture and interior design. Trends are generated every seasons, especially in term of colors, textures, materials, visions, etc. the fashion dicta the rules. I have found this series of pictures about famous model Agyness Deyn’sloft. The loft is located in Williamsburg, New York. The use of colors and different furniture is simply amazing. Everything is accurately display and every single piece is positioned to give you spectacular views and a hue effect. In the bathroom a variety of marble stones are mixed with rarest onyx giving a sophisticate feeling, I love the red alicante marble bathtub. The wood flooring finishing is amazing and creates a contrast with the iron columns. The high open ceiling with exposed pipes is painted on baby-blue stood out thanks to the beautiful wood beams. Eastern and westerner furniture are mixed with incomparable attention. Absolutely stunning! By the way if you are interested the loft is for sale at $2.5M. Here is the link.

I found extremely interesting that the kitchen has two colors: baby blue for the bottom part and white ivory for the upper part

The Eastern and Western vintage furniture create an interesting contrast and contraposition. The motive of the translucent curtains is so nice [hot-air balloons].

The pendant lamp with hot air balloon shape give a certain character to the space

Pictures and music selection by Valeria Racemoli [Bangkok] // 10.01.2012

Shape the tone of surprise,
Incidental love is all around …

Want to listen to l’Orangerie Vol. 5 on your mobile / iPad? Click here!!!

Last weekend was full of cultural events in Bangkok. Here is the first post documenting the exhibition opening “Bakewares & Begwares” by Pratya Raktabutr and Pim Sudhikam on Friday January 7, 2012 at RMA Institute. We have already talk about this cultural magnetic pole that it is the RMA institute – here is the link to our previous post. This time it was more than an exhibition, it was a gastro/exhibition event. The two artist Pratya and Pim [previous post 1, post 2] have collaborated with Bo and Dylan from Gastro1/6 to create amazing food by using the oven that Pratya made himself.

The recent flood with all the related circumstances forced the artists to think about and face themselves with their new reality. During the flood Pratya begun his new ceramic series but he realized that his usual clay resources were all flooded. The only solution was to work with all the clay residues that he collected from various flooded sites, creating a “terra sigillata” (ceramica sigillata in italian).”Terra sigillata” is a type of fine ceramic tableware produced and developed through a specific technique in Roman antiquity. Touching, seeing this series of ceramics brings you back a sensitive meaning related to sad memories from the Thai recent disaster, but it also give you the idea of the exceptional ability of Thai people to overcome difficulties finding the positive aspect into the negative one.

On the other side the flood crisis has broken Pim’s stillness and as a reaction she started a new porcelain production. Porcelain is the most difficult clay to form. Imposing herself the choice of porcelain as clay she calmed her mind and emotions. The result is simply stunning: each pottery has her finger marks on to show that it is not a result of mechanical reproduction but a result of herself, manually done. Her emotions, fears, sadness, reactions were impressed on the pottery sealing in the exact moment when they were felt. The objects may be functional ambiguous as a mark of a kind of “limbo”, suspended in a time where the daily life was interrupted and forced to face a new reality.You can buy the Bakewares & Begwares series. A special menu was prepared for the exhibition and it will be served daily at Gastro 1/6 for the duration of the exhibition. You absolutely have to try it! Below some picture of Pim’s serie.

What I most like of this series of vessels is the fact that each of them is consists of three individual containers made of wood, glass and ceramic. Designed by Pia Wustenberg, this amazing series is called Stacking Vessels. Here is the link to the video of the entire process. Have a look!

I really like the work of Duch design studio Ina & Matt, especially their interior design area. I found Hotel The Exchange extremely nice and poetic, it is more like an art/fashion installation rather that an hotel. The rooms are designed as models of a fashion catwalk. For this project they have worked with the students from AMFI – Amsterdam Fashion Institute. As you can see the predominant material for the interiors is textile. The connection between architecture and fashion is very strong and even in the hotel brand communication. Below some images of final result, concepts and process as well.

I love the embossed signage

Concept mock up rooms, I like the sketches!

Below the hotel brand design + packaging design

You probably have already heard about him. Yoann Lemoine is a young and very talented French videographer. I love his work and the images that he creates, so full of old memories emotions and symbolism. Following one of his biggest love, music, he pulished this year his first album under the name of Woodkid. Defenitely worth a listen to! Here is a collection of my favourites video. I hope you like them.

LANA DEL REY – Born to die from Yoann Lemoine on Vimeo.

Woodkid – Iron from WOODKID on Vimeo.

THE SHOES – WASTIN TIME from Yoann Lemoine on Vimeo.

Yelle – Ce Jeu from Yoann Lemoine on Vimeo.

Some of you probably have already noticed that the Louis Vuitton shops winter windows display are  transformed into a circus. Dancing elephants, tightrope walkers and trapeze artists are placed on display in a sophisticated way  reminding your childhood. Few weeks ago I sent to my friends some pictures and now it is time to post it. Here is a nice video that I found about the behind the scene. Have a look here.

The choice of gifts can often be a difficult task. The easiest way to start is based on an analysis of the subject,  know their tastes, passions and activities for which they move.

To put these points into practice, Ricardo Elias Rodriguez have made a curated selection of objects based on their aesthetics, utility, durability and longevity.

Have a look,  don’t forget to leave a comment.

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A: HOME ACCESORIES

1_Collection of potted cactus

2_Framed picture or art piece

3_Home accesories
VIA: Perla Valtierra

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B: PERSONAL ACCESSORIES

4_The Camper Satchel in Tan Waxed Canvas
VIA: Sketchbook

5_Wool Peacoat (Reengineered Wool Peacoat)
via: Outlier

6_ Crepe sole shoes
via: unmarked.mx

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C: WORK ACCESSORIES

7_ Moleskine

8_ Set of carpenter tools

9_ Leather Ipad case

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D: INSPIRATIONAL TOOLS

10_ MUSIC VYNIL / STEVE REICH

11_ BOOKS / Michael Embacher’s CYCLEPEDIA

12_ HOME MADE DINNER

Certainly you have already read our previous gift guides for your male stylish friend and for your Indie-Rock addicted friend. Now it is the turn of a new list done by Laura Perin for your distinguished friend with a sophisticate eye for details and a refined passion for collecting vintage objects. A friend for whom the house is like a museum, a collection of timeless design pieces from all around the world. For the one who loves modernism, black and white color, here is a selection of possible gifts. Enjoy!

“I dress for the image. Not for myself, not for the public, not for fashion, not for men.” [ by Marlene Dietrich]

1_Malachite Jewelry Box

For whom wears only black and in her house has only black or white pieces this is a good choice to make your present stunning from the background. A jewelry box made of natural green stone with a captivating natural pattern. In bangkok you can find it at Unforgetable shop [116/6 soi Sukhumvit 23 Sukhumvit Road, North Klongtoey, Wattana, Bangkok, 10110. T:662.662.0459 E:ufgle@yahoo.com]

2_Vintage Jewelry

I will suggest silver color vintage jewelry, a nice shop in Bangkok is Petit a Petit [Kamphaeng Petch, MRT Station Gate 1 Jatujak. Opposite the Marketing Organization for Farmers Kamphaeng Petch 2rd, Jatujak, Bangkok, 10900 Thailand]

3_colorful selection of Macaron

4_Brunch at The Eugenia

After a long working week the only thing you wish it is a break from everyone and every thing. The Eugenia is the perfect place to escape even being in the city. A lazy sunday brunch lying by the pool drinking a glass of white wine is a must. As a gift you can bring your friend there and offer to her the brunch.

5_Display [house shape]

I love this vintage display in house shape you can put it on your balcony with a lot of plants or in your living room filling it with books and strange objects or in the kitchen as an alternative space for your plates and glasses.

6_Old traditional Chinese woman mirror wooden jewelry box

This item is not easy to find, it took me long time looking trough all vintage flea market, antiquates shops at the end I found it in shop “Golden Tortoise, Oriental Furniture” [100 Sukhumvit Soi 49, Bangkok 10110, Thailand]

7_Fornasetti plates and ceramic

“Dear contemporaries, don’t you realise how different we are? Although I depict you as equals and like the ancients you never change.” [by Piero Fornasetti]

Every single piece of the most talented italian artist Piero Fornasetti is a style statement.

8_Selection of Jim Thomson silk.

If you do not want to spend a lot a nice option can also be to buy a selection of the production waste silk, framed in wooden it is an extremely nice gift.

9_Chanel products

Hydramax +

Lumière Sculptée Highlighting powder 2011 [Lumière Sulptét de Chanel]Is this not simply breathtaking? The inspiration behind the ‘Lumière Sculptée Highlighting Powder’ is the love of Coco Chanel for collecting antique baroque belt buckles. I love this highlighter’s embossed design.

Well; this suggestion does not need any kind of words. N°5 Chanel parfum

10_Jean Paul Gautier “The fashion world of Jean Paul Gautier book” I love the hardcover book in a slipcase.

11_Allure by Diana Vreeland.

On a previous post I have already explain such amazing book, here is the link. You have absolutely to read it.

12_One day shopping at Again&Again

An other option it could be that as a present you write down in a nice card that you will go with your friend one day to shopping at her favorite place. The gift is your time, patience. Believe me I would love to receive one gift like this, that one of my friends would go with me for an entire day to shopping. Sometimes the most appreciated gift are the one that you can not find in a shop neither buy it. Time and friendship is invaluable.

13_Something unusual that you have bought in your last trip.