HARBOUR OF HARMONY: Settle back at Minato’s teppan tables for a serene seasonal voyage through bountiful Japan

Minato has been quietly redefining the Japanese dining experience since opening in Wan Chai last summer. It’s an oasis of the calm and contemplation where aficionados can immerse themselves in the seasonality, craftsmanship and quiet luxury of elevated teppanyaki, kaiseki, omakase and sushi.

The very name Minato, which means harbour in Japanese, sets the tone for an occasion that promotes refuge and cultural exchange. The urban hustle outside quickly fades into stillness as we are graciously steered through serene, spacious surroundings to our table. Shoji screens diffuse soft lighting, wooden elements add organic warmth, and a palette of calming green tones enhances the aura of elegant minimalism.

The Tsubaki Weekend Teppanyaki Dinner Set is also aptly named – the camellia (tsubaki) is a symbol of grace and beauty in Japanese culture, and the nine-course culinary journey we embark upon is as delicately balanced and elegantly structured as the flower. The set encapsulates the ethos of Minato – seasonal stories told through flavour, aroma, temperature and timing.

A meticulously plated appetiser prepares the stage for an artful presentation of toro, botan shrimp and striped jack flown in daily from Japan’s fish markets. The sashimi course is not just a tasting but a quiet meditation on freshness and balance.

The toro is rich and luxuriously marbled, melting on the tongue with a buttery smoothness that defines top-grade fatty belly of the bluefin tuna. Prized for its size and sweetness, the botan shrimp arrives with a translucent hue, its plump flesh offering a crisp snap and lingering ocean sweetness. The white trevally, with its clean, lightly oily profile, offers a refined contrast to the other two cuts.

We continue with two seafood treasures cooked on the teppan with care. Black tiger prawn is plump and meaty, its natural sweetness enhanced by minimal seasoning and masterful handling. The crustacean is grilled until just opaque, releasing a subtle, smoky aroma.

Accompanying it is South African abalone, thinly sliced to preserve its tenderness yet retain its characteristic chewy texture and deep, mineral-rich flavour. Lightly seasoned and seared, the prized mollusc is a study in restraint, underscoring how expert technique and quality ingredients can speak volumes without embellishment.

At the heart of the Tsubaki set is Minato’s crown jewel: A5 Miyazaki sliced wagyu beef. Boasting a BMS (beef marbling score) of 12 – the highest rating – this world-renowned wagyu is sourced from Miyazaki Prefecture, where cattle are raised under strict conditions to deliver beef of incomparable quality. The wagyu is lightly seared and wrapped with garlic and green onion, a simple but brilliant pairing that enhances its umami depth without distracting from its intrinsic richness. The beef glistens as it hits the plate, and each bite yields an exquisite juxtaposition of seared outer edge and melting interior.

Then comes another house signature, Japanese pepper with whitebait fried rice, a dish as comforting as it is refined. With sansho pepper adding a gentle numbing tingle, the crispy whitebait offers bright, comforting contrast to the indulgent wagyu we have just enjoyed. Here again, the balance between richness and freshness is maintained with elegant precision – a hallmark of Japanese cuisine.

Seasonal vegetables follow, grilled to accentuate their natural sweetness and earthiness; next, a warming bowl of miso soup and a serving of house pickles. These familiar elements return the elevated dining experience to its humble roots while cleansing the palate in preparation for the final course.

A beautifully crafted dessert of green tea roll cake paired with red bean mochi completes the journey, focusing on light textures and harmonious flavours rather than strong sweetness. Our meal is enhanced by attentive yet unobtrusive service and sake selections to augment each course.

Dining at Minato is an invitation to pause and immerse yourself fully in the moment. There is no excess, no flamboyance – only harmony, balance and deep respect for the culinary traditions of Japan.

Minato. G/F, Great Eagle Centre, 23 Harbour Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong. Tel: 2345 0663. minato.com.hk

Text: Jill Trip

Black Magic: Sleek silhouettes and bold statements redefine urban style for the modern muses

Look 1

White coat and black skirt by Annakiki

Look 2

Sheer top and black trousers by Barbara Hui

Look 3

Black sleeveless top and beige pants by Barbara Hui

Look 4

Leather jacket and leather skirt by Pressiat

Look 5

Black top and leather skirt by Pressiat

Look 6

Black top, leather skirt and black trousers by Barbara Bui

Look7

Black leather coat and handbag by Barbara Hui

Look 8

(left)

Black vest and trousers by Barbara Bui

(right)

Fur coat by Pressiat
Leather jacket and
leather skirt by Annakiki

A Bridgerton Hurrah: There’s no falling down for Jonathan Bailey, whose charisma has carried him from stage prodigy to Hollywood sensation

Few performers mirror the complexity of human experience with as much raw talent and charm as Jonathan Bailey. Celebrating his 37th birthday this month, the Bridgerton and Fellow Travelers star can credit an abundance of perseverance and passion for his successful move from child actor to major stage and screen presence. With accolades lining the walls of his career ¬– including a Laurence Olivier Award and a Critics’ Choice Television Award, Bailey’s trajectory signifies more than just talent; it represents the evolution of an artist willing to transcend boundaries.

His childhood in the countryside of Oxfordshire, England, amid the nurturing gazes of four remarkable women – his mother and three elder sisters – and a father with unwavering resolve shaped Bailey’s outlook on life. His passion for acting ignited at the tender age of five when a family outing to London to see a production of Oliver! planted the seed of ambition in his young mind. “That was my awakening moment,” he recalls. “I was transfixed by the magic of storytelling and the ability to transport people into different worlds.”

His early years were marked by performances that honed his craft, starting with primary-school plays and continuing onto stage roles with the Royal Shakespeare Company. He starred as Gavroche in a West End production of Les Misérables at the age of eight. Enveloped in a cocoon of creativity and ambition, he headed to the bright lights of greater stages – a path he decided to embrace fully, forgoing drama school in favour of real-world experience.

“I’ve never gone in as the overdog, and that’s liberating,” he reflects. “I want my experiences to drive my performances. I think that’s what keeps me grounded.”

Diverse Roles and Dramatic Range

Bailey’s ascent in the acting world gained momentum through a host of versatile portrayals. He broke into British television playing a university freshman in the comedy Off the Hook (2009) and a teenage Leonardo da Vinci in Leonardo (2012-12), but it was his role as the earnest journalist Olly Stevens in the critically acclaimed series Broadchurch (2013-15) that saw him capture hearts. While that show bolstered his reputation as a dynamic actor, it was the theatre that truly showcased the depth of his artistry.

Appearances in classic plays like Othello (2013) and contemporary works such as The York Realist (2018) served to solidify his status as a leading man of modern theatre. “The theatre is where I feel most secure,” he explains. “There’s a tangible energy from the audience that compels me. I thrive off their reactions.”

It was also in 2018 that Bailey took a significant leap, stepping into the gender-swapped role of Jamie in a new production of the 1970 Stephen Sondheim musical, Company. His award-winning performance dazzled critics, marking him as a swift and nimble presence on stage. “Performing Getting Married Today every night felt exhilarating – it was my playground,” he recalls.

Finding Freedom in Fame

Yet, it was portraying Lord Anthony Bridgerton in the ongoing Netflix series Bridgerton that catapulted Bailey to global fame, serving as both a blessing and a complicating chapter of his life. The first season (2020) took social media by storm, garnering massive viewership and shadows of adoration mixed with scrutiny.

“Initially, I was overwhelmed by the fame,” he admits candidly. “It felt hard-hitting, like being thrust into this whirlwind. But the support system around me has been vital.”

With newfound celebrity status, he tackled the challenges of public adoration, learning to adapt and maintain a sense of normalcy amid chaos. “I’m really good now at saying no to photos, for my sanity’s sake,” he adds with a chuckle.

Safe Haven on Stage

As he navigates the glamorous yet complicated world of stardom, Bailey remains firmly rooted in his passion for storytelling and finds safety once again in a return to the theatre. He plays the titular role in Richard II, which runs at London’s Bridge Theatre until 10 May. “The stage has this protective aura – it’s immersive and liberating,” he reflects. “You get to explore life through characters, almost like dress-rehearsing your own existence.”

His collaboration with director Nicholas Hytner marks a significant homecoming for the actor, and one that has been a foundational part of his career. “Nicholas gave me my biggest break as Cassio in Othello. His mentorship has shaped me significantly. I feel like I’m coming back to a safe space where I can grow and shine,” he enthuses.

Bailey possesses a deep understanding of Shakespeare, bringing the flawed and complex character of King Richard to life with an acute sense of vulnerability. “How do you portray someone utterly inadequate ruling in such powerful circumstances? That’s the journey I’m eager to embrace,” he shares. Reminding the world why he has cemented his place in the hearts of theatre enthusiasts and television viewers alike, Bailey’s performance has been hailed by critics as luminous and charismatic.

Offstage Dreams

With his career at an all-time high, conversations naturally drift towards the future – specifically, the possibility of starting a family. The generally private Bailey, who came out publicly as gay in 2018, reveals: “Yes, I desire children – it’s such a privilege for a man. But I’m conscious of my current [busy] lifestyle. I want to ensure that if and when the time comes, I can be present.”

In a world that often prioritises ambition, he yearns for a balance that could offer a reimagined sense of home. “I’ve been reading about adoption and the prospects of co-parenting. I want a family, but I want to do it thoughtfully,” he emphasises.

Man Behind the Actor

Amid the glamour of fame, Bailey emphasises the importance of giving back to the community. Through his charitable efforts with Just Like Us and The Shameless Fund, which he launched last summer, he strives to raise awareness and support for LGBTQ+ issues globally. “If I can fill the spaces that I didn’t have while growing up, I feel that’s a brilliant thing,” he states.

When Bailey isn’t acting, he finds solace in nature – cycling, paddleboarding and mountaineering are among his favourite pursuits. He embodies a grounded spirit, finding time to enjoy life outside the glitz and glamour of Hollywood.

And clearly, this is just beginning. With a commitment to authentic storytelling, an admirable camaraderie with his fellow creatives, and a heart steadfastly directed towards making the world a better place, Jonathan Bailey’s legacy will undoubtedly inspire many generations of actors yet to come.

Serenity By The Sea: Every room in this weekend retreat on the Japanese coast feels deeply connected to nature

Perched on a verdant hillside in Tateyama, Japan, overlooking Toyama Bay, is a house boasting breathtaking views, which was designed to rejuvenate the spirits of its city-dwelling owners when they visit on the weekends. The stunning landscape and ever-changing ocean vistas inspired the interior design, which at every single opportunity maximises the visual impact of the great outdoors.

The internal architectural configuration, conceived by Ryoko Ogoshi and her award-winning Tokyo-based studio, Ron Design, ensures that all the key rooms – an open-plan ground floor and two bedrooms upstairs – are oriented towards the uninterrupted sea view. Calm, warm interiors provide a luxurious haven for relaxation, perfect for unwinding on rainy days when weather interrupts watersports or intimate evenings beside the vast contemporary fireplace.

A dramatic double-height living space serves as the backbone of the layout, with a sunken seating area below framed by the magnificent seascape. This clever design conjures a quiet sense of awe, with soaring ceilings and expansive windows amplifying the seamless connection between inside tranquillity and untamed nature outside. Comfortable beige sofas piled high with blue, gold and cream throw cushions invite relaxation and contemplation. These colour accents are repeated on the plush rug underfoot and a large painting hanging high on one wall.

Adjacent to the living area, a beautiful open kitchen and dining space form the heart of the home. The kitchen’s sleek, minimalist design is softened by warm-toned-wood cabinetry. A centre island provides ample counter space for food preparation, while a built-in breakfast nook offers a cosy spot for casual dining.

The dining area is defined by a splendid wooden table surrounded by cocoon-like grey upholstered chairs. This medley of mellow tones and organic textures adds natural elegance to the space. Suspended above the table is a sleek modern light fixture providing warm ambient lighting, while floor-to-ceiling windows flood the space with natural light and offer breathtaking views of the seascape.

The couple’s active lifestyle was a driving force behind the design concept. As avid surfers and outdoor enthusiasts, they wanted a weekend retreat that would allow them to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the Japanese coastline. The designers responded with an interior that not only celebrates the incredible sea views but also incorporates natural materials, textures and colours throughout.

Subtle nods to the owners’ Japanese-American heritage have been thoughtfully incorporated – a blend of Eastern and Western influences that achieves a unique and harmonious space. The result is a serene, modern home that complements the dramatic setting and reflects their deep appreciation for nature.

The two bedrooms are simply furnished with muted hues and fabrics, designed to direct the eye to the scenic feast beyond the windows. The master suite is bathed in natural light, with a spacious layout that evokes stillness. The twin guest room, on the other hand, features elegant Japanese wallpaper that holds sentimental value for the home owners, adding a touch of personality to the space.

Both bedrooms come with ensuite bathrooms, each designed to provide a calm and rejuvenating experience. The master ensuite features a spacious walk-in shower with a rainfall showerhead and an onsen-inspired jacuzzi tub for relaxing hot soaks. The walls are clad in glossy white marble, while the floors are paved with warm grey limestone.

The guest bathroom, while smaller in scale, is no less luxurious. A compact walk-in shower has a sleek glass enclosure, while a wall-mounted vanity offers ample storage for toiletries. The bedroom’s richer colour palette and natural textures impart an aura of peace and reflection, making it the perfect retreat for family members or friends joining the couple and their two small dogs on their frequent getaways.

In response to the challenges posed by the pandemic, a sustainable approach was adopted in the erection and modelling of this 190-square-metre abode. It is built predominately from wood in an eco-friendly mindset reflected by the use of natural materials, energy-efficient systems and environmentally responsible construction methods. Thus, the design team has delivered a retreat that not only revives the owners’ spirits but also contributes to the wellbeing of the planet.

One of the most striking aspects of this house is its seamless integration of indoor and outdoor spaces. Glass expanses and sliding doors create a sense of continuity between the interior and exterior, allowing the couple and their guests to immerse themselves fully in the natural beauty of the surroundings. Whether they are lounging on the sun-drenched deck or cosying up by the fire, the occupants can always feel connected to the magnificent landscape.

From the reclaimed wood accents to the natural-fibre rugs, every element of the design has been carefully chosen to reflect the owners’ love of nature and the outdoors. Even the colour palette of soothing blues, greens and greys is inspired by the ebb and flow of the sea through the seasons.

This impressive weekend retreat serves as a testament to the power of thoughtful design. By blending modern luxury with sustainable living and a deep appreciation for nature, the interior architects have created a space that is sure to nourish the souls of all who dwell within.

Air of Refinement: Beauty and functionality flow in harmony through the open spaces of this Island South residence

Nestled amid lush greenery and overlooking the blue sea, a 2,789-square-foot flat in Residence Bel-Air on the Pok Fu Lam waterfront affords its lucky residents a serene and picturesque environment away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Home to a couple with two daughters and a son, the apartment reflects the personality of each family member through meticulously designed interiors.

The residence offers spacious living areas throughout, allowing everyone to enjoy a comfortable and luxurious lifestyle. Within this open-plan layout, fine décor and details instil a feeling of sophistication and refinement. Floor-to-ceiling windows offer breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, allowing residents to bask in the beauty of the city’s skyline and natural scenery. The natural light is maximised, so there is a sense of openness that makes the apartment seem even more spacious and inviting.

The living room exudes elegance and comfort, making it the perfect space for relaxation and socialising. The design concept harmoniously balances aesthetics and functionality, with soothing neutral tones such as beige and cream interspersed with pops of dark colour in accent pieces that add visual interest and intriguing contrasts.

The lounge has ample space for family and guests to unwind. It features a large, plush sectional sofa with a round coffee table which breaks the monotony of angles. A wide bar runs parallel to the sofa while the dining space is at its back, making the living room a multipurpose area especially suitable for large gatherings. Tall windows permit natural light to flood in and provide stunning vistas to those chilling within; a balcony lets residents get even closer to the outside spectacle.

The bar boasts a white marble wall and a marble kitchen island with a statement lighting fixture hanging above it. A delicate white-frosted glass chandelier atop the dining table also serves to accentuate the beauty of the entire lounge.

A see-through glass frame next to the dining area visually connects the hallway leading to the master bedroom. Tall pots of plants punctuate every space hinting at the owner’s love of natural beauty.

The master bedroom follows a minimalistic theme, emphasising only the essentials of the space. Storage is on the side, adding further functionality and freedom from clutter. Wide windows open onto a balcony with spectacular views of the ocean and the nearby islands. The en suite plays a game of contrasts as its black marble floor and walls are at variance with the white and gold fixtures.

The daughters share a bedroom where two adjacent single beds make a cosy space for sisterhood to bloom. Facing the beds is a feature wall with a widescreen television for the girls to relish movie nights in their beds. Pink headboards and bright colours give the room a hint of feminine energy, and the same colour palette can be seen in their bathroom.

The son’s room is designed to function both as a play area and a bedroom. A mezzanine has been added to distinguish the spaces, the lower floor being designated for toys and games.

A capacious study with two separate tables enables the youngsters to delve into their homework undistracted. Next to it is a brightly appointed guest room. Like all the bedrooms, the guest room also features a television for everyone to enjoy their own entertainment.

The whole apartment is created to be functional as well as aesthetically pleasing, and its location in a prestigious neighbourhood known for tranquillity and superb views makes it the perfect abode for a modern Hong Kong family.

Photos: Taste Interior Design Ltd.

The Vintage Grail Holiday Gift Guide – Making your Christmas wishes come true

Unwrap the magic of time with The Vintage Grail Holiday Gift Guide. Discover a treasure trove of timepieces, from our selection of highly coveted pieces from brands such as Patek Philippe, Rolex, Audemars Piguet, Richard Mille, Artisans de Genève, and Van Cleef & Arpels. Complete your holidays with the perfect gift to adorn your wrist.

View Catalogue: https://vintagegrail.com/#flipbook-view-catalogue/1/

Hong Kong International Optical Fair

Register now for free admission

For the best and most spectacular eyewear products available in the market, the Hong Kong International Optical Fair is the place to be, an event which is sure to attract the attention of huge numbers of sourcing professionals. The Fairwill be held from 8-10 Nov 2023 at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. Organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), the 31^st edition will return in EXHIBITION+ hybrid model, complemented by the “Click2Match”, an online smart business matching platform that will operate on 1-17 November, providing a convenient and efficient platform for traders to connect.

International pavilions

This year, the fair includes group pavilions representing Italy, Japan, Korea, Taiwan, Visionaries of Style (VOS) as well as the Hong Kong Optical Manufacturers Association (HKOMA). The Mainland China pavilion will gather exhibitors from Yingtan of Jiangxi Province, Danyang of Jiangsu Province, Wenzhou of Zhejiang Province and Shenzhen of Guangdong Province.

The highlighted Brand Name Gallery will house around 100 well-known brands from around the world. New exhibiting brands include ANNA SUI (US), agnès b (France), Gold and Wood (France), Santa Monica (Japan), TED BAKER (US), LASH (Korea), as well as returning prestigious international brands such as MINIMA (France) and STEPPER (Germany), etc. Eyewear Parades by professional models will be held to show different stylish outlooks of eyewear.

Hong Kong brands including BIG HORN and bTd amongst others are also not to be missed. The Hong Kong Optical Manufacturers Association (HKOMA) will set up an eyewear design gallery with the theme of “Promoting Hong Kong’s Outstanding Innovative Eyewear” to promote Hong Kong’s creative eyewear designs and the 3D technology elements involved.

Demand growth

Demand for smart glasses continues to grow in the global market. The new “Smart Eyewear” zone this year aims to answer this rising demand. Hong Kong exhibitor Solos Technology Limited and US exhibitor Zulu Inc. will showcase their latest smart glasses products. The Fair also includes other themed zones, spotlighting a wide variety of products ranging from professional eyewear, accessories, frames, lenses, diagnostic instruments to optometric instruments.

The fairs will also introduce the “Scan2Match” which enables offline-to-online connections. By using the HKTDC Marketplace App, buyers can scan the dedicated QR codes of exhibitors to bookmark their favourite exhibitors, browse product information and e-floorplan, chat with exhibitors even after the fair to continue the sourcing journey.

A selection of exhibitors are shown below:

Exhibitor: Arts Optical Company Limited

Country/Region: Hong Kong

Brand: STEPPER

Zone: Brand Name Gallery

Booth: GH-J03

Exhibitor: Mech-Tronic Precision Manufacturing Limited

Country/Region: Hong Kong

Brand: bTd

Zone: Brand Name Gallery

Booth: GH-R10

Exhibitor: Mondottica Asia Trading Limited

Country/Region: Hong Kong

Brand: Anna Sui

Zone: Brand Name Gallery

Booth: GH-E12

Exhibitor: Wenzhou Conway Light Industry Co. Ltd

Country/Region: Mainland China

Brand: CONWAY

Zone: Smart Eyewear

Booth: 1CON-054

Exhibitor: RayMaterials Co., Ltd

Country/Region: Korea

Brand: RayFog

Zone: Korea Pavilion

Booth: 1C-F15

Exhibitor: Wing Fung Optical International Limited

Country/Region: Hong Kong

Brand: Big HORN

Zone: Frames, Lenses & Parts

Booth: 1D-G02

Exhibitor: Interojo Inc.

Country/Region: Korea

Brand: Clalen

Zone: Contact Lenses & Accessories

Booth: 1C-F01

Exhibitor: Astucci International Limited

Country/Region: Hong Kong

Brand: ASTUCCI

Zone: Eyewear Accessories

Booth: 1D-D23

Exhibitor: Neway Macao Commercial Ltd

Country/Region: Macau

Brand: Natura

Zone: Brand Name Gallery

Booth: GH-E30

Register now for free admission

Dorelan – The Only (Sustainable) Solution To Getting A Good Night’s Sleep

At the end of every single day, people desire to hit the bed and get a good night’s sleep. Sometimes, during a busy day at work, it is all we are looking forward to. Dorelan surely understands this and has built a reputation for making high-quality beds that help people sleep better. The brand takes every step and effort to ensure that anyone who sleeps on their bed has better sleep efficiency. In fact, their customers’ wellness is a top priority for them.

They achieve this by manufacturing all their beds in Italy and handpicking only the finest raw materials that are thoroughly checked ensuring that the final products boast a phenomenal quality.

Particularly, the craftsmanship of each bed follows the highest professional standards while combining the aesthetic appeal of art and scientifically backed and researched state-of-the-art techniques thus making sure that even their demanding customers end up truly appreciating their creations. More importantly, Dorelan maintains this standard by continuously researching and developing its products to an even better one.

In fact, cruises, hotels and boutiques understand and trust the Dorelan beds to the point that more than ten thousand organisations from the cruise and hotelier world continue to use their products. As much as the hospitality industry wants its guests to be satisfied and relaxed during their experience, Dorelan also wishes the same.

The brand also pays extra attention to the environment by sticking to eco-friendly ways of manufacturing. For instance, as of January 2019, Dorelan has only used electricity that was generated from renewable sources. They have also stuck to circular production by reusing nearly 50 per cent of their waste from the previous year.

Above all, Dorelan has been crowned with different certifications, including Hygiene Certification, Lca_life Cycle Assessment Certification And Medical Device, which proves Dorelan’s greener and quality-focused way of production.

Resort World Sentosa becomes the official hotel for Liv Golf Singapore

The world’s most exciting golf league, LIV Golf will make its only Asian stop in Singapore this April 28 to 30. Officially launched after a host of Invitational Series events last year, LIV Golf Singapore presented by Resorts World Sentosa marks the fifth of 14 high-intensity, fun-loaded tournaments, and marks the first time that LIV Golf League has engaged with a partner in the form of the award-winning Resorts World Sentosa Singapore.

The multi-faceted lifestyle destination resort’s support has helped LIV Golf League to create world-class entertainment and premium guest experiences for the fans and players. The tournament will bring the world’s best golfers to Asia, a massive market deserving of the sport’s top competition and event experiences.

In that week, Resorts World Sentosa will entertain all who visit with various experiences from a unique 32 m-long putting challenge in the “Longest Putt To LIV” to celebrity chef dining experiences and golf-inspired menus across its host of top-tier restaurants and bars.

As the gateway to LIV Golf Singapore, Resorts World offers the ideal stopover throughout the week with attractions like Universal Studios Singapore, S.E.A Aquarium, Adventure Cove Waterpark and Dolphin Island, with the nights coming alive at AVE8, where vibrant live music flow as liberally as cocktails and laughter.

There is even a unique Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience show where visitors can step into a 360º multi-sensorial exhibition of the Dutch master’s works in VR. A truly world-class entertaining destination, Resorts World Sentosa adds that magic touch to enhance the entire LIV Golf week experience.

Normann Copenhagen HK’s Spring 2023 exudes aesthetics and practicality

Danish design company Normann Copenhagen takes pride in creating visually appealing furniture pieces that are also very ergonomic and practical. For its Spring 2023 collection, the brand has launched tables, chairs, lights, sofas, and other home products. For the brand’s future direction, it is only expected to get more premium and innovative with its original designs.

While we cannot wait to see all the fantastic contemporary designs that are yet to come, for now, let’s focus on some of the fabulous pieces from Normann Copenhagen’s Spring 2023 line.

Drape comes in two forms – Lounge Chair High and Lounge Chair Low. While the Lounge Chair High has an additional headrest allowing for more head-and-neck support, the latter looks more simple yet sleek.

Drape comes in different colours and fabrics, while also letting people choose between steel or oak legs. Whatever option you pick, every Drape chair boasts elegance and comfort with its soft curves and the brand’s precision in every detail of the design.

Ark is the brand’s retake on modular sofa design. Ark has both high-density and low-density foam incorporated in the design to allow for a cosier sitting.

Its minimalist style along with all the jaw-dropping features like the powder-coated steel legs make Ark a simple-yet-sophisticated sofa to add to one’s living room. Best of all, Ark is created with adequate spacing between the cushion and the floor thus making it easier for cleaning.

Much like Drape, Ark is also available in various upholstery options, and whether you choose the end module, centre module, corner module, or all of them, there are hundreds of materials to choose from.

Off Chair gets its inspiration from the need to work comfortably, so it follows the elements of an office chair with a more fashionable design front. It looks classy with its rounded rectangular shape.

Off Chair can be opted in either the fixed four-point legs or five legs with wheels, and people can also choose between having an armrest or not. Best suited for both office and home, every person sitting on Off Chair would most definitely appreciate its mechanical features and seamless look.

Rib, which will remind you of the Nordic summerhouses in the 1960s, is the storage cabinet that features an appealing exterior design without compromising on its storage capacity. Given that it comes with detachable shelves, the Rib can be easily adjusted to the needs of each individual.

Rib has two renditions – the smaller one which is the Rib Cabinet and the larger one which is the Rib Sideboard.

One of the most classic pieces from Normann Copenhagen, Turn Table is back with its design elevated with designer Simon Legald adding two new colours – black marble and white marble.

Allowing for adjustable height via rotation, the Turn Table comes with a bell-shaped steel base that makes the table look stunning and sturdy at the same time.

As Normann Copenhagen defines it, the Scala table is the “ultimate adaptable table,” as these tables are made to fit the space of your choice. Besides letting people pick between oak or marble top with steel bases, each Scala table resembles your old-fashioned furniture design, perfect for people who appreciate classic and vintage designs.

To take a closer look at each piece, visit Normann Copenhagen’s showroom at 31 Queen’s Road East, Wan Chai.