Signs of the Times: Whether of vintage glass or durable LED, bespoke neon lights display the bright side of life

Neon signs are an iconic and integral part of the city’s visual identity and cultural heritage. For decades, these vibrant boards illuminated the streets, advertising businesses and added to the energy and bustling character of Hong Kong. They were handmade by skilled craftsmen using glass tubes, neon glass and electricity to create intricate designs and characters.

While neon signs were a popular form of advertising in their heyday of the 1960s and ’70s, they have evolved far beyond their original purpose. With new technology offering more digital and 3D printing options, they can easily inject vitality into décor and embellishments for the home and light up events and special occasions.

Daiwa Metal Works

Established in Hong Kong in 1996, Daiwa is one of the oldest companies to offer a customised neon sign service. It began with a mission to display the personality of a business through signage and metal products, and today offers a wide array of products from traditional glass neon, modern LED neon, metal and plastic signs and letters to LED light boxes and large metal signage.

Daiwa LED neon signs have all the benefits of vintage neon at a fraction of the cost. Complex shapes and brand artwork can be reproduced by CNC (computer-automated) milling on high-quality acrylic instead of fragile glass. More durable than traditional neon signs, with no issue of dead (unlit) pixels and more portable, they illuminate uniformly and appear brighter and more beautiful. daiwaltd.com.hk

NeonsignLife

Alex Wong, NeosignLife’s founder and CEO, opened his first store in Mong Kok, infusing his father’s traditional neon craftsmanship with contemporary design. The company has expanded over 20 years, and now boasts an international team and a studio in London. It offers an amazing variety of bespoke signage and illuminated art to embellish spaces and events with a radiant glow.

An online configurator on the website allows customers to turn their ideas into personalised LED neon signs. The tool gives a live preview of the neon you can get by playing with font, colour and dimensions, so you have a precise mock-up before placing your order. From street art to hype art to kanji, their collections are a vibrant blend of different themes that provoke individual inspiration.

Wong is also a champion of vintage neon signage, believing that classic glass neon bestows an aura of prestige not found in the LED flex version. In this way, the company is helping to preserve a cherished local craft. Their vision is to reshape the landscape of home decoration, taking inspiration from the vibrant city of Hong Kong. They view neon signs as more than just décor: they are mirrors of personal flair, crafted to inspire boldness and radiate joy, with each piece unique and celebrated for the emotions it evokes.

NeonsignLife’s motto is ‘embrace boldness, shine brightly, and enjoy the journey’, and Wong continually joins hands with the global art and design community, leveraging the transformative power of art to illuminate the world. neonsignlife.com

MK Neon

A one-stop-shop for high-quality crafting of one-of-a-kind LED neon signage, MK Neon was established in 2015 by Hong Kong-based French entrepreneur Ben Darmon after a table-top glass neon sign depicting the Nike Air Max 1 sneaker that he created caught the public imagination. Named for the Mong Kok district and its past profusion of neon signs, the company specialises in neon art for its original purpose – as a marketing tool for businesses. It has lent professional help to high-profile clients such as Dior, Guerlain, Sephora, Neiman Marcus and Converse; provided neon signage for the 2019 Alsatian Strasbourg Christmas Market in New York; and established a sister brand, La Maison du Néon, in France.

MK Neon is also renowned for making bespoke neon signs for home decoration and events like weddings, bridal showers and baby showers. It prides itself on producing the customised LED design of your dreams that will add a bright, personal touch to your special day. mkneon.com

Little Rae Neon Signs

UK company Little Rae has lit up the neon-sign world with the quality and originality of its designs. Charming phrases, words and motifs like hearts and stars to adorn the walls of the home are made from flexible silicone LED tubing, mounted onto acrylic, for lightweight, safe and durable neon art. LED’s low-energy consumption compared to traditional lighting is another plus while it imparts glowing illumination to a room.

LED neon signs are less likely to break than glass ones and the tubing emits very little heat, making it safe to touch and a great option for nurseries and children’s bedrooms. Bespoke lettering in a variety of fonts and colours is available, and each sign comes with a dimmer to control its brilliance according to mood and occasion. The company strives to bring design ideas to life in glorious neon forms and create beautiful collections to add more light to your life. littlerae.co.uk

Step into these neon workshops and you’ll be transported into a world of mesmerising colours and intricate designs. Each piece is a custom creation, tailored to the specific needs and preferences of the client. Whether it’s a dazzling storefront sign, a whimsical piece of public art or a bespoke installation, the artisans pour their hearts and souls into every luminous creation – once ubiquitous across the Hong Kong cityscape.

As the city’s skyline continues to evolve, these bespoke neon shops have become beacons of hope, reminding residents and visitors alike of the rich cultural heritage that has long defined Hong Kong. In a world of increasingly dominated by digital displays, these glowing masterpieces stand as a testament to the enduring power of craftsmanship and the importance of preserving the city’s distinct identity.

Pillow Talk: Throw down a cluster of covetable cushions to change up your interiors

Cushions are essential accessories that elevate décor, bestowing a room with a cosy, charming ambience as well as a touch of elegance. Providing tonal and textural contrast, they are surely the easiest, most affordable and arguably most fun way to add style and personality to your living space. Whether you are sprucing up your living room, den or bedroom, they can change the vibe of your entire interior experience.

No matter the size of your home, there’s always room for a cushion or two to brighten the interiors. Choose vibrant patterns as cheerful accents to scatter onto sofas or bedspreads in solid colours or monotone throw cushions that instil calm in colourful furniture. With so many hues and style options available, you are bound to find ones that complement your unique home style.

Goods of Desire

Fondly called G.O.D., Goods of Desire is quintessentially Hong Kong. Founded in 1996 by local designer and artist Douglas Young, the heritage design and lifestyle brand has grown from a small boutique in Ap Lei Chau into an iconic, multifaceted international retailer. G.O.D. presents Hong Kong to international audiences by creating premium products with a distinct look and feel inspired by the city’s vibrant history and culture, where East meets West, and age-old traditions converge with cutting-edge technology.

Young’s designs embrace humour and creativity, turning everyday subjects into truly extraordinary objects – including an extensive array of cushion covers that infuse your living area or bedroom with Hong Kong whimsy and a burst of colour. The Sai Kung Series is one of its most iconic collections, featuring trails, nature and island scenery. Traditional handcrafts are celebrated in a range of satin-silk embroidery prints usually associated with Chinese jewellery pouches. These appear as a patchwork design on the front of the cushion with a solid silky colour at the back. god.com.hk

Staunton & Henry

Hong Kong-based homeware retailer Staunton & Henry prides itself on offering beautiful and eclectic decorative items that don’t cost the earth and cannot be found elsewhere. They have a showroom in Central, but their online store ships worldwide, delivering finesse from their collections and bespoke products for customers who want unique items. Notable among their various cool, modern home accessories is a wide range of cushions and throws.

Offering style and comfort, cushions are available in a myriad of themes from Scandinavian to bohemian and contemporary. The Herman Art Deco Throw Cushion lets you add visual interest and a pop of muted colour to your interiors. Realised in lush shades of taupe and cream, their angles, shapes and lines nod to Art Deco’s bold yet sleek geometric patterns, and add elegant depth to any seating arrangement. Handmade with an intricate woven pattern, the Nordic Chunky Weave Throw Cushion Cover imparts interest and texture. The soft and subtly fuzzy feel of the knit cotton can help make a room feel cosier.

Staunton & Henry’s Teal Oriental collection is embellished with floral and fauna prints inspired by Chinese and Japanese bird paintings. Crafted in satin, these cushion covers have an elegant serenity and shine. Available in two sizes, the Amrin Stitched Blue Throw Cushion looks ultra-chic in its tone and depth, imbuing a sense of moody luxury wherever you place it. stauntonandhenry.com

F&P Interiors

Established more than 20 years ago under the name Fabrics and Papers, this UK specialist in designer wallpapers, curtains and upholstery is a great option for anyone looking for bespoke services. They can create personalised scatter cushions, bench cushions, outdoor cushions and floor cushions in any size and shape covered in your favourite fabrics. The F&P range leaves clients spoiled for choice; it spans all interior styles from contemporary to country cottage, and includes vintage linens, printed velvets, outdoor fabrics and embroideries.

Made using traditional sewing techniques with careful attention to detail, each cushion can be individually customised by their expert team and is made to last. Designing a made-to-order piece becomes a simple and enjoyable process. From choosing the fabric to adding those unique finishing touches, items are handmade to your exact measurements and specific requirements with their talented team assisting at every step.

F&P Interiors’ outdoor cushions are a particular treat. Styled to make your garden or balcony seating more comfortable and stylish, and to continue looking its best for longer, they are woven using threads designed to withstand the wear and tear of outside entertaining. fabricsandpapers.com

Khushi Kantha

If eco-friendly and sustainable living is important to you, then Khushi Kantha shares your values. It was founded by British mother Laura Rana, who moved to Bangladesh and revived a centuries-old upcycling tradition through collaboration with local women who knew the handicraft. From stitching patchwork cloth from rags to designing blankets, cushion covers and bags, the venture is based on a beautiful blend of cultures and styles.

The word kantha refers to both the stitching and the final cloth, and it evolved from the thrift of rural women in the Bengali region of the Indian subcontinent. One of the oldest forms of embroidery originating from India, its origins can be traced back prior to 1500 BCE and it became a canvas for ordinary women to tell stories of their everyday life. Khushi, meanwhile, means happiness, an emotion that comes when you behold products made out of love and devotion.

Their cushion covers feature bright colours, heritage patterns and scenes, and animals and birds like peacocks that celebrate nature, all brought to life through traditional stitching. They are handmade from 100% cotton handloom fabric, hand-dyed using Oeko-Tex Eco Passport-certified dyes, and lined with upcycled deadstock 100% cotton fabric. Presented in a reusable cotton drawstring bag, handcrafted from a vintage sari offcut, with a packaging insert explaining Khushi Kantha’s social-enterprise mission, they make great gifts. Bespoke services include embroidering names and personal details to make each cushion a unique and happy story. khushikantha.com

Light Source: Amplify the ambience of your home with a personalised lamp

Lamps are a powerful medium to evoke emotions and a popular choice for bringing both functionality and style to a room. Whether you are looking to create a cosy reading nook or simply want to add some ambience, table lamps offer a range of benefits that can enhance your décor and improve your overall living experience.

Essential as task lighting for reading in bed or working at your desk, a pendant lamp or side lamp provides the necessary illumination to help you see clearly and avoid eye strain. Plus, with adjustable options like dimmer switches or adjustable necks, these lights can be customised to specific needs. Larger light sources, meanwhile, are central in spaces that bring people together and celebrate the social side of life.

Whatever the practical purpose, a bespoke, outstanding or cutting-edge light casts the personality of its owner into the spotlight. Here, we single out some of the shining stars in lamp design.

Light with Shade

A Hong Kong business passionate about vintage and industrial-style lamps, Light with Shade facilitates the creation of personalised lamps for unique interior themes. It offers a variety of quality designs and materials at affordable prices for DIY projects at home as well as fixtures for offices, shops and restaurants.

As a member of the band Living Disco Head, company founder Lo Yat-ming had firsthand experience with multimedia visual arts and how lighting builds drama and atmosphere. The advertising and product designer established Light with Shade a decade ago and boasts an impressive track record of designing lights for clients in Hong Kong, the US, Europe and Indonesia. lightwithshade.com

Innermost

UK design-led lighting expert Innermost has been synonymous with quirky and daring innovation for 25 years. Guided by a desire to rebel against the norm, and backed by manufacturing experience that allows the repurposing of conventional approaches, the company’s curated collection of lights defies expectations. It works with some of the best-known modern lighting brands to offer incredible original designs.

Passionate about each design, the Innermost team explores how illumination can be used as a raw material and pays close attention to every detail that goes into its manifestation. Their designers travel around the globe sourcing the best materials and the most suitable producers for each component – from prototyping in Hong Kong to using hand-blown glass by artisans in the Czech Republic and bespoke engineering at their factory in the UK.

With a focus on sustainable design, their lights and lamps are a blend of high-quality materials and a genuine care for the environment. They work with clients to ensure that each piece is cutting-edge and classy. Their Foundry line of spun-metal pendant lights is a staple for any modern interior and can be ordered in customised colours to suit all spaces. innermost.net

The Home Stylist

Launched in 2013 with a vision to illuminate spaces with class and elegance, The Home Stylist sees lighting as one of the most important parts of the home. Whether a lamp for the table, floor or ceiling, the right colour and shape can bring a whole room together. After years of struggling to find innovative lamps in Hong Kong, the company saw the light when award-winning Australian interior designer Adelaide Bragg came on board. Bragg’s timeless pieces in the elegant Classic or vibrant Colour Pop ranges are available in hand-picked colours to fit beautifully in all kinds of spaces.

Stunning lamp bases from Bragg & Co. can be complemented by bespoke lampshades. The Home Stylist founder Alex Sheldon crafts handmade shades from her Hong Kong home, finding the perfect fabric for clients and tailoring it to an elegant base of their choice. thehomestylist.org

The Ginger Jar Lamp

For a touch of class emanating from Imperial China, The Ginger Jar Lamp Co. pairs vintage Chinese ginger jars with artisanal lamp shades to create contemporary, limited-edition table lamps. Hand-painted pieces adhere to traditional Qing dynasty methods, with each jar design having an auspicious meaning. Their signature lamp shades are made by skilled craftspeople using a range of vibrant fabrics sourced across Asia.

Vintage blue-and-white glazed jars handmade in Jingdezhen and featuring flora and fauna patterns, Ginger Jar Mini lamps are perfect for smaller spaces such as slim consoles and bedside cabinets, or a dining table or sideboard with a less expansive footprint. These diminutive beauties are harder to source than their more common, larger counterparts. A jar- less alternative, Classic Faux Bamboo wooden lamps are an attractive addition to any home. Available as a table or floor lamp, the versatile design fits smartly into any interior space.

Another top collection, Hong Kong Homage, celebrates the city’s iconic skyline. Depicting daily life against the backdrop of Victoria Peak, this specially commissioned design is available in imperial blue or jade green as a ginger jar table lamp, a ginger jar or a limited-edition art print. gingerjarlampco.com

In a bustling metropolis like Hong Kong, where captivating sights and sounds abound, and tradition meets modernity, a unique industry has been quietly thriving – bespoke light lamp shops offering a haven of artistic expression and craftsmanship. These ateliers, with their dedication to personalised creations, bring the magic of light into our lives, while preserving the beauty of traditional craftsmanship. As we navigate an increasingly digital world, these establishments serve as a reminder of the enduring allure of handmade artistry and the importance of cherishing our cultural heritage. So, the next time you find yourself in Hong Kong, make sure to step into one of these bespoke light lamp shops and let the radiance of their creations illuminate your soul.

Fabric of Life: Dressing the table in crisp fine linen is the first step to refined dining

The table is the heart of the home, the place where families share the day-to-day, where big decisions and announcements are made, and where those most important to us gather for meals and celebrations. The tablecloth is vital in creating an elegant and welcoming atmosphere for dining together.

Whether in homes, hotels or smart restaurants, a tablecloth is the basis for a beautifully laid spread. While protecting the tabletop from spills, this extra layer of tactile pleasure also significantly reduces the clink of cutlery. At home, bespoke tablecloths are a great addition to any interior, enhancing the decorative theme of the dining space.

Celebrated in British dining culture, a crisp white linen tablecloth is also a part of the Hong Kong fine-dining and entertaining tradition due to our shared past. Today’s luxury table-linen purveyors offer countless choices of colour, pattern and material to suit any table and its surroundings.

Rivolta Carmignani

Historic brand Rivolta Carmignani (rivoltacarmignani.com), coveted for its bed linens and tablecloths for 150 years, employs a fully integrated, all-Italian manufacturing process that begins with the selection of precious yarns. The production combines ancient crafts like cutting, hemming and hand embroidery with the latest generation looms, ensuring durable, high-quality tablecloths. The skilled artisans of the atelier also offer a customisation service to make one’s choice of table dressing unique.

Rivolta Carmignani’s collections encompass a variety of weaves. Refined jacquard technology achieves the patterns of the Giardino Italiano line, as well as Boboli, a line of two contrasting solid colours in jacquard linen. Decoro embraces pure linen with clever three-dimensional effects, while Victorian delves into the family company’s archives for its decorative damask motif.

Precious pure cotton yarns (600 threads per square inch) create sophisticated sateen with a soft and silky hand. The Sateen Gold collection offers golden piping on crisp, sheen- like white cotton. Prices for linen tablecloths start at about HK$3,000.

La DoubleJ

The Italian-made fashion and tableware of former US journalist J.J. Martin brings vibrant joie de vivre to the tabletop. Launched in 2015, La DoubleJ (ladoublej.com) crafts linen tablecloths rooted in maximalist prints and the mood- boosting powers of chakra-conscious colours. An inspiring authority on energy elevation and the ebullient Italian way of life, the brand’s linens are made on the shores of Lake Como by local artisans, thus limiting their carbon footprint and boosting their feel-good vibe.

The Palms motif – in which bundles of palms in varying shades of green come together against a pale blue background – plays out across 100% Italian linen for a readymade centrepiece. Due to the handmade nature of the fabric, this medium-sized tablecloth features some small but charming irregularities, such as knots in the yarn.

White Turning Tulip and Wildbird Blu prints bring flora and fauna to the table respectively, while it would be hard to find a more intense colour-popping pattern than Colombo Grande. Mix and match La DoubleJ’s brilliant prints through napkins, runners and crockery for a veritable garden of delight. Tablecloths range from HK$2,500 to $4,000 in price.

Maison Margaux

Sourcing the world for unusual designs and pieces, Maison Margaux (maisonmargauxltd. com) is a luxury British homeware store selling everything for home entertaining – beautiful tablecloths, cutlery, crockery, glassware and bespoke accessories. Travelling from Portugal to Provence, and Italy to Istanbul, with inspirational visits to the English countryside and the Scottish Highlands, their collections conjure varying moods and expressions of nature. Everything is hand-selected by the team in a true labour of love.

Top of the line is the stunning hand- embroidered Noël Suzani tablecloth. Each intricate stitch is a testament to the craftsmanship behind this extraordinary collection, whose rich hues and tactile presence are a standout on every special occasion, not just Christmas.

From the pastel Turquoise Amelia in cotton, which perfectly captures the blush of spring, to the linen Burgundy Stripe in a Port- coloured pattern that nods to autumn warmth, there is a Maison Margaux tablecloth for every season. They also have collections suitable for weddings and formal events that may be rented rather than purchased. Prices (to buy) start from HK$1,300.

Summerill & Bishop

Founded in 1994 by June Summerill and Bernadette Bishop, two friends who shared an effortless sense of style, the Summerill & Bishop (summerillbishop.com) tablescape has a warm and slightly rustic vibe, but with a distinctly modern sensibility. Flowers and leaves feature on table linens that work both in the dining room and on the terrace, while abstract geometric patterns or stripes will complement any interior. Pieces are priced from HK$3,000 to HK$7,000.

Now operating two shops in London, S&B believes that if people take the time to lay the table and beautifully present a meal, they will enjoy it all the more and create a lasting memory for those who share it with them. To this end, the store offers a personalisation service on their Word, Cornice and Full Field table linens as well as some of their handmade porcelain bowls. Ideal as a gift or a personal keepsake of a memorable occasion, the Word collection enables a bold word, name or initials to be emblazoned on top-quality white linen.

In addition, a line of fine Italian linen tablecloths in a choice of classic and contemporary designs is hand-painted and printed by hand in a traditional stamperia. The most discerning customers, meanwhile, can dip into S&B’s limited-edition and made- to-order Couture collection which comprises the ivory-coloured Lyon lace tablecloth priced at HK$20,000 or three exquisite sequined designs at HK$53,000 each.

Healing Hands: The tick-tock masters who can repair all parts of your beloved watch

A watch is a very personal item and the journey to owning it can take several months. If it falters, however, modifications or repairs can be difficult, as only a handful of shops offer bespoke servicing. Watch restoration is an opportunity to bring a beloved model back to life and onto your wrist. We make the job of finding a master watchmaker to repair your wrist reward easier by curating a list of premium service centres in the city.

Classic Watch Repair

Based in Central, Classic Watch Repair is a one-stop service centre with more than 20 years of experience. The team is adept at repairing and restoring any timepiece, both mechanically and aesthetically. Besides standard watch repairs, they specialise in reviving exterior parts that are not generally covered by a brand service.

Michael Young, founder of Classic Watch Repair, is a vintage watch restoring legend. A mechanical engineer by training, he began his watch ‘fixation’ as a collector of Rolex models 40 years ago. Frustrated that Rolex wouldn’t repair or restore the cases, bracelets, dials or hands of his treasured timepieces, Young learned to do it himself. His meticulous restoration work and vintage-watch servicing have earned him a solid reputation around the world and the nickname ‘the Rolex bracelet magician’. classicwatchrepair.com

MisterChrono

Over the past 10 years, MisterChrono has made its mark through in-depth knowledge of the watchmaking industry and partnerships with watch repair and service specialists in Paris, Hong Kong and Singapore. These masters of high-quality workmanship have the necessary tools to carry out both routine maintenance and minor repairs as well as a complete overhaul of your watch. Moreover, if you are looking for specific advice, they will be able to answer your questions and guide you.

Giving an initial analysis and repair quotation as soon as you enter the shop in Central, the team offers a wide range of services from changing a battery and replacing the crown to fixing the hands or polishing the case. They recommend mechanical watches receive a full service every five years. This begins with the dismantling of the watch and the movement, followed by a thorough ultrasonic cleaning and inspection of all components and the replacement of any damaged or worn parts. The movement is then reassembled using the manufacturer’s specified oils and lubricants with a full calibration of the regulating mechanism. The watch case and bracelet are cleaned, and if requested, can be polished and refurbished. The service concludes with rigorous quality control and testing for 72 hours – including for pressure- and water resistance – and a final visual inspection of the watch. misterchrono.hk

Oriental Watch Company

As well as being a leading watch retailer, Oriental Watch Company offers a professional watch service experience. Designed and run by accordance with Swiss and German watchmaking standards, its in-house repair workshop in Sheung Wan is equipped with cutting-edge instruments including a water-resistance testing machine, a watch-movement analyser, the Chronoscope S1 high-quality watch-testing instrument and the Cyclomotion watch winder.

This abundance of outstanding hardware is utilised by staff with an average of 20 years of experience in watch repairing, with the majority having previously worked for haute horlogerie brands. Their most experienced master watchmaker has served in the industry for more than four decades. All potential restoration projects will be fully evaluated and discussed with the client before work commences. orientalwatch.com

Hong Kong Ruigang Watch Group

At the Tsim Sha Tsui flagship store of Hong Kong Ruigang Watch Group, trained watchmakers set about the task of lovingly restoring vintage timepieces. A thorough inspection of the watch movement identifies any damaged or worn parts, and should a new or replacement part not be available, they will refurbish the old part or machine a new part from scratch. Their dedicated dial department offers varying degrees of dial restoration, from adding luminosity to hour indexes and hands to repainting the entire watch face.

Hong Kong Ruigang also specialises in professional polishing and finishing to a watch’s original factory specifications. Going beyond normal polishing on a buffing machine, their technical polishing service using specialised tools results in a crisp edge that, in essence, is a reshaping of the case. For owners of popular models like Rolex or Omega, replacing scratched or damaged sapphire crystal isn’t usually a problem, but for vintage, bespoke and small- production watches, precious new glass can be custom-made to fit. They also undertake steel- and gold-band restorations by carefully removing each link and rebuilding it before re-assembling the bracelet. mbwxzx.hk

Prices for the services described here vary according to the intricacy of the restoration and the bespoke technicalities required by individual timepieces. Consultations can be booked online, although walk-in clients are also entertained. These watch-repair companies are, in short, trusted doctors for your cherished chronometers.

Hot Cakes: Customised creations bring aesthetic delight and originality to every celebration

Cakes and celebrations go hand in hand, and a beautiful bespoke confection is the cherry on top of a joyful occasion. A creative cake not only satisfies the sweet of tooth, it makes any event complete. Whether a birthday, wedding, baby shower, graduation or even a breakup, people want to celebrate – or commiserate – with a cake that is a gustatory as well as a visual treat.

A cake can be anything you want it to be, and when ordering bespoke, no two cakes are obviously ever the same. Deluxe cakeries offer a wide choice of shapes and sizes, styles and designs, not to mention flavours and toppings, so it is entirely possible to choose the perfect cake for all tastes and themes. Here, we gorge our eyes on the scintillating customised collections of some of Hong Kong’s most creative bakers. In a city known for its culinary prowess, bespoke cake shops in Hong Kong have carved a niche for themselves by creating standout pieces for every occasion. With their remarkable craftsmanship, attention to detail and dedication to customer satisfaction, they have elevated the art of cake making to new heights.These edible works of art not only delight the taste buds but also serve as a centrepiece that adds a touch of magic to any celebration. So the next time you’re planning a special event, consider indulging in the exquisite creations of a bespoke cake shop in Hong Kong for an unforgettable experience.

Cake of Stardust

A universe of delectable cakes is available at Cakes of Stardust, quite literally, as the collections are named after celestial wonders. Working from her Tai Hang cake shop, founder Nicky Chow makes everything from scratch using the freshest seasonal ingredients. The passionate self-taught baker launched her venture in 2018 and you can taste the dedication and loving care she puts into each personalised cake.

Among the array of bold flavours in the signature range, Sun mango lava cake is a fluffy sponge sandwiched together with layers of fresh fruit and cream. Other popular choices are a banana caramel chiffon cake called the Asteroid, and the Black Hole blueberry chocolate-drip chiffon cake. Prices range from HK$1,000 to HK$4,000 for bespoke creations. cakeofstardusthk.com

Sugar Me Kissery

Telling a story through each piece of edible art, Sugar Me Kissery is another great option for those seeking a unique and aesthetic celebration confectionery. The founder of this Tai Kok Tsui- based cakery, Shirley, was formally an architect who discovered baking was her true calling. She travelled to France, the UK, Australia, Taiwan and Korea to learn the delicate, deft art of cake decorating from master bakers.

The designs are not only Instagram- worthy, but the flavours are incredible too, with Guinness dark beer, lemon, vanilla and red velvet among Sugar Me’s popular picks. While there is a huge collection online to select from, bespoke cakes are where the baker’s skills are truly demonstrated. Customers can choose the level of sweetness and the amount of fondant they prefer. Prices start at HK$2,500 and rise to HK$5,000 for elaborate tiered creations. sugarmehk.com

The Cakery

For the fitness freaks out there, The Cakery is the perfect place. It offers nutrient-rich, health- conscious contemporary creations to satisfy guilt- free sugar cravings of plant-based, keto, gluten-, sugar- or dairy-free cake lovers. Each temptation can be adapted to cater to a range of different dietary needs, and ingredients are listed on the website so customers can consume mindfully.

The brainchild of banker-turned-baker Shirley Kwok, The Cakery has grown from a pop-up at The Landmark to five shopping mall outlets in the city. As well as using the healthiest ingredients, the bakers here have replaced refined sugar with natural sugars and increased the amount of good fats and proteins to boost the overall nutritional profile of their creations. Prices of bespoke cakes scale up from HK$3,000, reaching HK$8,000 for the grandest. thecakery.com

Baking Maniac

Run by Renuka Kripalani Gidwani and her son, Ankrish Gidwani, Baking Maniac is a family passion turned business. Cake-making has been a hobby of the mother for more than 25 years, while Ankrish has baked ever since he could hold a mixer. Every Friday after school, he would spend hours preparing cakes for the family to enjoy; he would also showcase this edible art on his blog, attracting a following. By the time he was 16, he was getting orders and mother and son set up their cakery, producing celebration cakes, cupcakes and cake pops.

The Gidwanis practise quality and attention to detail throughout the baking process, from
design and preparation to delivery. Everything is freshly baked in their kitchen in Wong Chuk Hang using fine organic ingredients sourced from all over the world. Their joint experimentation has led to an exciting variety of flavours. There are common choices like chocolate, strawberry and red velvet and unique picks like green tea, chilli bomb and bubble tea. Cake categories are also diverse, from funky child-centric creations for parties to elegant concoctions for corporate celebrations. Prices range from HK$1,000 to HK$5,000. bakingmaniachk.com

Bespoke cake shops are renowned for their ability to turn dreams into reality. Whether it’s a birthday, wedding, anniversary or any other special event, these artists work closely with their clients to understand their vision.

Umbrella Effect: A bespoke brolly remains a handy barometer of one’s standing in fashionable society

If an umbrella is the last thing you grab as you head outdoors in grey or blazing hot weather, then think again. It can be a treasured possession that not only shelters you from the elements but also defines your style – a fashion accessory of the highest order. There are a handful of artisanal brands offering deluxe or custom-made umbrellas, so why not invest in a rainy day? In the bustling streets of Hong Kong, where rain showers and scorching sunbeams dance in a delicate tango, a unique artistry unfolds within the realm of bespoke umbrellas. Like skilled maestros, the master craftsmen and women weave together threads of tradition, innovation and personalisation, creating a symphony of shelter that transcends merely functionality.

Carl Dagg

Sheltering from the rain is a breeze, Stockholm style, at Carl Dagg. Co-founders Carl Cyrén and Carl Samuelsson happened upon the last remaining Nordic umbrella factory, in Dalarna, northern Sweden, and began their line driven by the principles of classic design and Scandinavian aesthetics – simplicity and minimalism. The high- quality craftsmanship and sleek, straightforward design of their umbrellas means they are made to last and will always look sophisticated and timeless.

The shaft and handle are crafted from solid walnut, a material known for its strength and durability. The canopy, on the other hand, is made from an exclusive cotton-linen blend that provides excellent protection from the elements while maintaining the heights of sophistication. Whether you are walking to work from the MTR in the rain or strolling in the park in the summer, a Carl Dagg umbrella is the perfect accessory. Collections range from HK$1,400 to HK$1,600 with a higher estimate for bespoke items. carldagg.com

Pasotti

Another fine maker for a rainy day, Pasotti is renowned for bringing flair to handmade umbrellas. The iconic Italian brand has been synonymous with premium quality and exquisite designs since 1956. Their umbrellas stand out due to their creativity and continuous research in materials: think enamelled brass, Swarovski crystals and precious wood handles.

The company is headed by Eva Giacomini and was founded by her mother, Ernesta Pasotti, who had worked in an umbrella factory in Milan before returning to Castellucchio, 150 kilometres to the east, and opening her business in a country house. Aiming for exclusivity, it produces no more than 40,000 umbrellas a year, all of them beautiful, which are supplied directly to leading boutiques in 75 countries around the world. These luxury artisan umbrellas range from HK$1,500 to HK$5,500. pasottiombrelli.com

Il Marchesato

For a beautiful blend of functionality and design, Il Marchesato turns umbrellas into elegant essentials of daily life. The brand was born in 1978 in Saluzzo, a tiny town near Turin in northwest Italy but its seeds go back to a humble umbrella mender of the 1930s – the inspirational grandfather of founder Claudio Chiappero. Like its handmade wares, the company name nods to the noble marquises who ruled the land in ancient times.

The Marchesato umbrellas have taken the world by storm for their sophistication and originality, using precious Italian materials. The men’s Premium collection is crafted from top- quality jacquard fabrics or double fine satin and exclusive hand-painted 24-carat gold-plated or 925 silver-plated handles, while the prime women’s umbrellas feature double satin polyester fabric and 24-carat gold-plated brass handles embellished with crystals. They range from HK$1,500 to HK$3,900, though for those seeking the ultimate in exclusivity, designs can be customised and personalised by request. ilmarchesato.com

Brigg

If you want to feel like royalty during a rainy afternoon stroll, Brigg – which has been supplying the British monarchy with bespoke umbrellas since 1836 – will help you live out the fantasy. Established by Thomas Brigg in 1817, Brigg & Co. merged with Swaine Adeney in 1943 and continues to provide umbrellas handcrafted from the finest wood and fabrics at its Cambridge workshops. One-of-a-kind pieces are made for clients all around the globe.

Their women’s umbrellas are lightweight and streamlined, with the handle formed from a solid piece of precious wood that is infused with steam to soften it for bending into a smooth curve. It is finished with a signature gold-plated or sterling silver collar. A full-sized Brigg walking umbrella – so-called as it doubled as a walking stick – was once the preserve of the English gentleman. They remain part of the contemporary wardrobe, on hand to provide years of reliable service. Prices range from HK$2,800 to HK$9,100. swaine.london

Whether you spend most of your days in Hong Kong or travel frequently, you are going to have to face some gloomy skies, damp days or the glaring sun. From blazing heat to drizzling dreariness to torrential downpours, it’s time to regard the umbrella as the elegant design statement it can really be.

So let’s raise our bespoke umbrellas high, embracing the fusion of tradition and innovation, and honouring the artisans who breathe life into these functional works of art. In a world that can be unpredictable, these marvels offer a glimpse of timeless elegance, reminding us that even amidst the storms, we can find shelter, grace and beauty.

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Fan Flair: Yesteryear’s handheld fashion accessories are being handmade by modern artisans

Hand fans have a long-standing history in Chinese culture, dating back more than 2,000 years. Originally used purely as a functional tool to provide respite from the scorching summer heat, they soon evolved into works of art. Embraced by the literati and nobility, fans became symbols of sophistication, elegance and social status.

Today, beautifully made folding fans have become treasured collectibles, popular souvenirs and cherished gifts. They are meticulously handcrafted by skilled artisans, who pay attention to every detail. After selecting the finest materials such as silk, paper and bamboo, they carefully paint or embroider intricate designs on the surface that often depict scenes from mythology, nature and folklore, or represent cultural symbols such as dragons, peonies and lotus flowers. Traditional hand fans are now an art celebrated around the world, from cultures as diverse as Japan, China, Spain and France.

Rockcoco Fine Fans

Billed as the first bespoke fan makers in London for a century, Rockcoco Fine Fans is the brainchild of sisters Denise Frankel and Janis Sher whose passion for antique and vintage hand fans evolved into a business. After receiving regular compliments for the pieces in their personal collection, they began to make their own and take orders from around the world. Their vision was to fill the shoes of dedicated luxury fan boutiques that inhabited London’s main shopping streets in the 1920s.

Rockcoco’s striking ready-to-wear collection starts from £55 (about HK$525), but it is the quality of the custom designs that is truly remarkable. Materials are obtained from British royal warrant-holders and precious stones are ethically sourced. From the engraver of the mother-of-pearl, the goldsmith that creates the gem setting and the rivet which holds the fan together, the gilder that finely applies gold leaf into the engraving and the bespoke tassel makers, skilled British artisans work in harmony to bring each fan to life. rockcocofans.com

VLC Hand Fans

Another all-in-the-family venture, VLC Hand Fans is based in the United Kingdom but has its roots in Valencia, where fan-making developed in the early 1800s and became part of Spanish culture. A secret hand-held language sprung up as lovers flirted through alluring gestures and provocative swishes of their fans.

The duo behind VLC, Pilar Taberner Quiles and daughter Isabel, hail from a family long involved in the artisanal craft. The fans they sell are made in the traditional way – hand-crafted, hand-painted and hand-assembled in Spain – so each one is unique. Top-of-the-range wood such as sipo, palo santo and ebony is paired with exquisite fabrics including lace, chiffon and feathers to create luxurious and distinctive designs.

Their fans are striking fashion accessories or serve as decorative art to showcase at home. For bespoke orders, their team of craftspeople carefully select the finest materials, vibrant colours and different wood carvings and textures to meet the requirements of clients. Non- bespoke prices range upwards to £170 (about HK$1,700) and vary widely according to the level of detail and material selection. vlchandfans.com

House of Duvelleroy

One of the oldest and most luxurious hand-fan boutiques, Duvelleroy was founded in Paris in 1827 by Jean-Pierre Duvelleroy, whose royal clients included Queen Victoria and the Empress of Austria. A venture born of one man’s dream to bring fans back into the hands of elegant women has remained faithful to the traditions of French fan-making.

Engravers, pleaters and embroiderers are involved in the manufacturing of these precious objects. A fan-maker, one of the last in France, assembles every piece by hand and each is embellished by a golden daisy, the emblem of the house. Raw materials of horn, ebony and mother of pearl are cut into layers of only 9-10mm thick, which are then trimmed again and shaped, in the French style, into supremely light frames of 14 sticks. Polishing and engraving are the final touches before the sticks and their outer guards are fastened together by a rivet. Prices rise from US$69 to US$2,250 (about HK$540 to HK$17,600) for the most elaborate designs. laperfectionlouis.com

Sukhari Designs

A Taiwanese artist and global traveller, Sukhari Yang expresses beauty and refinement through handmade crafts, which include gorgeous silk fans. The product of rich, artistic influences from Italy to Indonesia and a celebration of the universality of cultures and traditions, her collections are theme-based and handmade by Balinese artisans. Among the most popular are the Lotus Born Master and Flower of Life collections.

Each Sukhari silk fan takes about three weeks to produce with their carved and polished wooden spokes and handles providing quality and effortless movement. They embrace unique embellishments such as an ornate brass ring that can be used to hang the fan from one’s attire and tassels featuring semi-precious stones, and each comes in a black silk slip case. A leather belt with a fan holster is another novelty for fashionable clients.

Varying in size, colour and design, the fans draw on sacred geometry for their perfect form, proportion, harmony and value. The most affordable options start at US$69 (about HK$540) with no compromise in beauty or intricacy. sukharidesigns.com

Fur Ever Diamond: A memorial gemstone created after a beloved pet’s passing keeps their memory alive

Pets hold a special place in our hearts, and their unconditional love brings immense joy to our lives. When they pass away, we are inconsolable. There is a way, however, for owners to treasure their pets beyond the grave – through a pet memorial diamond. Set in jewellery, these exquisite sparkling mementos not only celebrate the bond shared with a furry friend but also serve as a tangible reminder of their cherished presence even after they are gone.

A memorial diamond is a diamond created from carbon extracted from cremated ashes, hair or a combination of ashes and hair. Since it serves to immortalise the memory of a loved one, Hong Kong pet owners have wholeheartedly embraced this trend, recognising the value of preserving the emotional connection with their companions in a refined and tangible manner.

As cremation diamonds have become a burgeoning industry around the world including Hong Kong, numerous retailers have sprung up to cater to the demand for these precious jewellery keepsakes. Local jewellery shops are also offering specialised collections and bespoke services to meet the diverse needs of pet owners.

Algordanza

Established in Switzerland in 2004, Algordanza has steadily become a global enterprise. Its name, which stems from the Rhaeto-Romanic word for ‘remembrance’, is a fitting title for a company that is dedicated to preserving the special memories of a lost loved one in a unique way. They need 300 to 400 grams of your pet’s ashes or 11 grams of their fur, which is sent to their Swiss labs where experts begin the process of extracting pure carbon to create a diamond.

Algordanza’s Swiss-made cremation diamonds are 100% crafted from a pet’s ashes or hair – no extra carbon is sourced or artificial colouring added. Delivery takes from four to nine months depending on the complexity of the design.

Heart In Diamond

Natural diamonds must grow for more than one billion years deep under the Earth’s crust, but fortunately, you don’t need to wait for this long to receive your unique memorial gemstone. At Heart In Diamond, it takes only from 75 to 120 days on average to produce a customised cremation diamond. This production time is one of the fastest in the market, and their prices are relatively affordable, too.

Founded in 2005 in the UK, Heart In Diamond’s vision is to help people all around the world by producing a true and lasting reminder of a loved one. The expert team extracts carbon from an original sample (whether it’s hair, ashes or an alternative organic material) and adds it to the diamond core foundation. Shortly after, the foundation is placed in an HPHT (High Pressure, High Temperature) machine that recreates, in the lab, the process of natural diamond creation with the help of extreme temperatures of 2,000°C and pressure levels of 60,000 atmospheres.

Prices start from HK$8,000 for 0.03 carats and rise to HK$156,000 for a two-carat stone. en.heart-in-diamond.hk

Petmento

Hong Kong-based pet memorial diamond venture Petmento emphasises simplicity when communicating with clients. Each item is then crafted accordingly with skilful devotion to the finest detail and the highest possible standard, creating gemstones or other mementos such as ornaments that keep alive the memory of a pet. The animal’s image or silhouette can be incorporated into some designs.

Specialists in their Hong Kong workshop first use a unique technology to purify the ashes by removing unwanted substances. At least 10 grams of ashes are required, and these are homogenised with biogenic ingredients and fused at a temperature of more than 800°C into ash gems. Natural stone colours include white, grey and green, while occasionally the fusion produces a darker hue. Petmento’s Rainbow collection provides a spectrum of colours to choose from.

Prices start from HK$6,500. / Prices for gemstones start from HK$7,800 or $11,800 for a pendant. petmento.hk

Lonité

For pet owners who want to go the extra mile to preserve memories of their furry friends, Lonité could be the answer. Their memorial journey started in a small town near the Swiss Alps, a 25-minute train ride south of Zürich, where the company founders harnessed advancements in lab-grown diamond techniques to turn ashes into diamonds.

The name ‘Lonité’ originates from ‘longévité’ in Swiss French and nods to the precious timelessness of their lab-grown creations. Today, they offer 10 options of diamond cut and five colour choices. The most popular colour is amber, which is also the most basic. Their Naturally Amber shade is achieved from ashes with no added micro-elements or special technical treatments, hence the production costs and creation time are lower. Owners generally request that the ash diamond is set in a ring, or perhaps a pendant or a pair of earrings, so they can keep their pet who has passed close to them at all times.

Prices start from about HK$13,000 for .25 carats and increase to $180,000 for a three-carat diamond. lonite.com.hk

In a world where pets hold such significant places in our lives, pet diamond mementos have become more than just jewellery – they embody love, companionship and the enduring bond between humans and their most faithful companions.

Sole Creators: The shoe fits perfectly when it’s painstakingly custom-made by dedicated artisans

Owning a pair of bespoke shoes can be a transformative experience. They are markers of superior craftsmanship, unmatched comfort and individual style. Unlike mass-produced shoes, bespoke footwear is crafted to your precise measurements, ensuring an impeccable fit that enhances your posture and provides unparalleled comfort. To add to this feeling of pleasure, greater artistry and attention to detail go into making bespoke shoes, resulting in a product that stands out from the crowd while also reflecting your unique personality and taste.

With their exceptional quality and durability, bespoke shoes also offer an investment that will last for years to come. For those who want to put their best foot forward in the future, there are shoemakers in Hong Kong who will meticulously craft a pair to your exact specifications.

Shoe Artistry

Backed by science and elevated by style, Shoe Artistry’s mission is to make personalised shoes that perfectly fit your feet. For this, it takes multiple measurements of both feet to ensure that even microscopic differences between the left and the right are not overlooked. To further increase the accuracy, the shoemakers employ a special foot-scanning technology called Phits which uses sensors to determine your gait pattern, thus collecting an analysis of the different pressure points formed while you walk. This is then 3D printed into insoles that are unique to your feet. Such avant-garde techniques and painstaking precision to detail not only ensure the finest fit for your bespoke beauties, they also eliminate any orthopaedic pain, regardless of how long you walk.

After determining all the necessary measurements, the shoemaker assists you in finding the right material. Options are presented within two classifications – either vegetable-tanned leather, which is made by processing animal hide with plant proteins, or vegan leather, which uses plant-based or synthetic materials instead of animal skin.

Next comes deciding between a Goodyear welt or Blake stitch, the two techniques used to connect the upper leather to the outsoles. In the Goodyear construction, a welt is sewn onto the edges of the upper leather under which the outsole is added, thus allowing for the outsole to be replaced without deconstructing the entire shoe. Inversely, Blake stitching is when the outsole is stitched directly to the midsole. Since the latter option does not have a welt, Blake-stitched shoes are more flexible and have a sleek appearance.

Once the material and construction of the shoe have been established, the artisan focuses on design choices, funnelling down the preferred colour, texture and other details. Once all the specifications are set, shoes will be made in six to eight weeks. Men’s shoes are priced upwards of HK$11,300, while women’s start at HK$5,300.

To order, call +852 2796 6018, WhatsApp +852 6159 4670 or email hi@shoeartistry.com.

Kow Hoo Shoe Company

A pioneer in local shoemaking, Kow Hoo Shoe Company has its origins in 1920s Shanghai and moved to Hong Kong in 1946, so it might be your first resort for a custom-made pair if you are inclined to support local craftsmen. It is also where famous names like architect I.M. Pei and business magnate Li Ka-shing go for their bespoke shoes.

Owning your very first pair begins with a meeting at their shop in Prince’s Building where the in-house shoemaker gains a better understanding of your foot morphology through fastidious measurements and noting your preferences for design, colour, texture and construction. Once all the required information is gathered, crafting begins at their Quarry Bay workshop where your ideas will come into form.

Devoted to producing shoes that fit your feet like a glove, the shoemakers will first make a trial pair using wooden lasts they have carved from your measurements – Kow Hoo claims to be the only shop in Hong Kong still making wooden lasts for each individual customer. Only after you are 100 per cent satisfied with the trial pair will they start making the actual pair that will become yours. Until then, as many adjustments as you want in terms of fitting and design will be accommodated. Expert cobblers then hand-sew each pair with immense dedication.

As a result of their priority in producing shoes that are exemplary and cherished, the entire process can take up to six months. Pricing starts at HK$18,000, but it is certainly worth the wait and cost. Moreover, after you buy your first pair, your lasts will be stored for at least seven years, thus significantly reducing the length of craftsmanship for subsequent pairs.

To order, visit Kow Hoo Shoe Company, Shop 341, 3/F, Prince’s Building, 10 Chater Road, Central, Hong Kong. Call ahead on +852 2523 0489 for an appointment or email kowhoo@hotmail.

Berluti

For those looking beyond Hong Kong for custom-made indulgence, Berluti boasts a history spanning more than 120 years, and its bespoke footwear has become a significant part of the brand identity. The French Maison is renowned for its dedication and finesse; its cobblers spend at least 50 hours and perform more than 250 procedures to create one pair of bespoke shoes.

Your personal shoemaking journey begins at a meeting when measurements are taken and much more – they also want to know about you, so they can craft a pair to match your feet, your lifestyle and your personality. You will also discuss the material, design and other features you would like reflected in your shoes.

Given that Berluti encourages an innovative mindset, you can broach unique ideas and choose from a wide range of materials, from classic Venezia leather to rarities like bullfrog skin. But if you are oblivious to what might look good, or what is fashionable, the artisan will guide you through the selection process. They will then create hornbeam wood lasts, which at the end of the process are delivered to you in a wooden box along with your personalised pair of shoe trees.

With Berluti crafting all their shoes in Paris, travelling shoemakers will meet clients in different parts of the world, including Hong Kong, so the first step is to request an appointment through the brand’s website. Since there is a high demand for bespoke shoes, the entire detail-oriented process can take about six months. The price tag for a bespoke pair starts at HK$67,000 and can go as high as HK$300,000.

To order, book an appointment on berluti.com.