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.

Creative ways to transform your walls with bespoke wallpapers

Whether you are thinking to give your room a complete makeover or just sprucing it up for a fresher look, wallpapers are a great choice. On top of making your walls look visually appealing, they also protect them and are proven to be more hygienic, eco-friendly and longer lasting than paint. What’s more, wallpaper is easy to clean and even easier to put up.

gafencu Creative ways to transform your walls with unique khroma havana collection (5) — (Photo courtesy of Khroma, from the Havana collection)

Available in a variety of distinctive materials, pretty patterns, cool colours and tactile textures, there is certainly a wide range of designs to choose from. Some wallpaper materials are better suited for certain spaces. For instance, PVC and vinyl are more appropriate for areas like the kitchen and bathroom because they are highly resistant to humidity and moisture. Whereas fibreglass wallpapers are good for old, heavily used, cracked walls. They also work better for public places like hospitals and schools. The choice of a wallpaper in the bedroom can also make a huge difference because you want to choose colours or patterns that you find relaxing.

gafencu Creative ways to transform your walls with unique Tat Ming Wallpapers — (Photo courtesy of Tat Ming Wallpapers, from their Marble collection)

However, if you want to give your space a unique personal touch, there are companies that offer bespoke services for custom-made wallpapers and coverings. Whether it’s your favourite artwork or a graphic that you want to see on your wall, it can be digitally transformed into a wall mural and can turn your ho-hum wall into a masterpiece. A few artists even collaborate with companies to create hand-painted wallpapers that can take your space aesthetics to the next level.

gafencu Creative ways to transform your walls with unique Tat Ming Wallpapers (2) — (Photo courtesy of Tat Ming Wallpapers, from their Marble collection)

Tat Ming Wallpapers is one such company established in 1981, with grand showrooms in Hong Kong and across Asia. In 2016, the company launched its digital print service that led to its nature-inspired Sea of Clouds, Botanical and Woodland themes. It has a diverse collection of western, oriental and contemporary themes, colours and materials – mostly sourced from Europe, while also emphasising environmental sustainability and ethical – each category offering vibrant colours, mesmerising illustrations and culturally rich themes.

The marble collection is worth checking out. Its impressive textures and classic designs are art in themselves, designed to embellish any space with a graceful touch and tasteful pattern. Marble wall covers don’t only elevate the aesthetics of the space, they also help create a sense of depth – leading any dweller’s line of sight to trace the ebb and flow of rippling patterns. The marble series is more suitable for formal spaces and rooms that are used to relax and unwind.

gafencu Creative ways to transform your walls with unique Tat Ming Wallpapers Ho Wing Cheong Chinese ink painting — (Photo courtesy of Tat Ming Wallpapers, a collaborative series with artist Wing Choeng Ho)

Tat Ming also collaborates with reputable artists. One such artists is the much-admired Wing Cheong Ho, a Lingnan School of Painting alumni, who in collaboration with Tat Ming, turned his incredible art pieces into digital murals, infusing traditional Chinese styles into modern interior design.

Ho’s skill in Chinese ink painting captures the transition of seasons, the silence of trees and the ferocity of wild creatures in a powerful yet elegant manner, breathing life into the home with murals of landscapes, botanical motifs, rich hues and robust strokes. This collaborative series of wall murals are the perfect backdrops for adding a sense of culture, art and nature seamlessly in one space.

gafencu Creative ways to transform your walls with unique khroma havana collection (3) — (Photo courtesy of Khroma, from the Havana collection)

For funkier and more chic options, Khroma by Masureel is a brand that has a veritable smorgasbord of wallpaper series and cool themes. Their intricate patterns and choice of retro colours make walls look fresher and more dynamic. The designs are stimulating and each collection has multiple colour options. With the ample variety in the brand’s designs, there is a lot to choose from, making it easier to facilitate design professionals and get customised work for bigger projects.

gafencu Creative ways to transform your walls with unique khroma havana collection (4) — (Photo courtesy of Khroma, from the Havana collection)

Among the series, a distinguished collection that caught our eye was “Havana”. Inspired by tropical scenes and invigorating greens, the designs emanate irrepressible energy and cheery vibes. From large, leafy patterns to fine-grained textures, Havana takes you on a magical trip to a Caribbean archipelago.

These car tuners will make your dream car a reality

There are only a few things in the world that men (and some women) incessantly pamper: children, pets and cars – and not necessarily in that order; nicknamed, cared for, dressed in new coats and gifted with new toys, the latter are often their ultimate pride and joy.

Craving the newest, shiniest model is commonplace, but it is no longer enough to shell out for a cutting-edge Porsche or Lamborghini. Autophiles want wheels that project their personality and deepest aspirations, thus they will invest in custom-built kits that transform their prized possession into a one-of-a-kind design, even if it costs millions. After all, who wants a ride that everyone else has?

car-customisation-tuner-modification-gafencu-dmc — (Photo courtesy of DMC)

From modifying the outlook – paint job, wheels and aerodynamics – to customising interiors and tuning hardware, ardent car buffs will build, and rebuild, so their baby not only looks her best, but also reflects their own creative drive. Although Hong Kong has stringent regulations on road-vehicle modifications, this has not deterred collectors here from pursuing the car of their dreams with truly unique and functional edits.

Car Sharp

car-customisation-tuner-modification-gafencu-reinart (2) — (Photo courtesy of ReinArt Design)

“In Hong Kong, it’s not special to own a Ferrari or supercar anymore. There are so many!” says Gregor Hans Schoner, Founder and CEO of German luxury automobile designer and modification company DMC. “One of our clients told us that they bought a certain colour of Lamborghini, only to find out that their friend had the exact same one. That’s where we come in. We offer bespoke designs and exclusive materials that will deliver a wow-factor and truly make a vehicle stand out from the rest, including exotic leather choices such as stingray and crocodile.”

car-customisation-tuner-modification-gafencu-carlab (2) — (Photo courtesy of Car Lab)

It’s a growing trend. “In recent years, locals have shown more and more openness to car customisation,” says the team at custom car modifier Car Lab in Hong Kong. “They want to be more involved in the design process and apply unique motifs that reflect their personality. Innovative customisation requests in the past have included colour wrapping for hearses and adding vibrant Chinese couplet livery to a McLaren MP4.”

car-customisation-tuner-modification-gafencu-reinart design (10) — (Photo courtesy of DMC)

Internal hardware such as audio and entertainment systems, as well as engine, exhaust and air suspension systems are flipped to suit the comfort and lifestyle of owners, whether it is installing Bang and Olufsen surround sound, gaming consoles or a private theatre on wheels – the possibilities of modifications are seemingly endless nowadays.

Also Read: Starting a car collection? 8 classic cars that you should not miss!

Fast & Fabulous

car-customisation-tuner-modification-gafencu-reinart design () — (Photo courtesy of ReinArt Design)

Car-proud locals favour optical enhancements and aerodynamics, according to Schoner. “Although engine enhancements are not always the focus of Hong Kong clients, they still want the [aesthetic of a fast car],” he says.

Automobile beautifications can cost as much as the car itself. At DMC, which counts Justin Bieber, Cristiano Ronaldo and Korean star Jang Keun-suk among an international clientele, the cheapest package starts at HK$200,000 and can rise to HK$1 million to $2 million. “The most expensive car we built was a Rolls-Royce Ghost for nearly HK$5 million,” shares Schoner.

“The owner, who was gifted a pair of handmade shoes by Donatella Versace, tasked us to match the interior of the car to the colour and material of the footwear. So, we ripped out every inch of the inside and replaced each part with fine Italian leather. We also altered the wheels.”

car-customisation-tuner-modification-gafencu-reinart design (6) — (Photo courtesy of ReinArt Design)

But new technologies are widening the scope of modifications, which can result in savings for owners. Better, lighter and more durable materials are available; Forged Carbon Fibre, for instance, once exclusive to Lamborghini, is about five times lighter than steel and is in demand for its rich, marble-like finish. And PPFs (Paint Protection Film), which provide stain resistance and protection from stone chips, are thicker, stronger and more lightweight than before. Previously, they were manufactured as transparent or matte, but now they can emulate the high gloss of vehicle paint.

Also Read: Personalised Touch: Custom made décor and furniture you need for the home

Power Makeover

car-customisation-tuner-modification-gafencu-reinart (4) — (Photo courtesy of ReinArt Design)

However wild your dream-car imagination, it can become as good as real by engaging the services of an expert car modifier. ReinART Design, the Hong Kong arm of RAUH-Welt Begriff (RWB), a well-known Porsche 911 tuner in Japan, builds on more than just Porsches, rolling out an impressive repertoire of exceptional work to create exclusive and exotic vehicles tailored to owners’ requests.

Among these was a Ferrari 458 Italia installed with an Innotech Performance F1 Valvetronic exhaust that gives this beast a little more kick, and its owner more control over the volume with a simple press of a button. It was finished with burnt blue titanium triple exhaust tips, and a set of Novitec/KW lowering springs that brought it down about 30mm to hide the “unsightly original OEM fender gap”. This allowed the team to retain the authenticity and timeless beauty of the factory model while giving it a standout makeover.

car-customisation-tuner-modification-gafencu-reinart design (1) — (Photo courtesy of ReinArt Design)

The team also fitted Brixton Forged wheels on a Lamborghini Huracan LP610-4 and BMW M235i. Custom built-to-order in Los Angeles, these premium wheel sets are stronger, more durable and more resistant to corrosion and oxidation than cast wheels, and can cost up to HK$80,000 each.

Built to Impress

Like many things in Hong Kong, car parts that are custom-built and designed to owners’ specifications are manufactured outside of the city, imported and installed by trained professionals. You may have to wait for a month for parts to arrive and then the actual alterations can take anywhere from one week to six or 12 months or even longer to complete, depending on the complexities of each project and model.

car-customisation-tuner-modification-gafencu-reinart design (4) — (Photo courtesy of ReinArt Design)

The stakes are always high when you’re taking apart and rebuilding a top-tier automobile. There is no room for error, which is why the city’s expert car modifiers ensure that every step in the process, from consultation and planning to material sourcing, installation and finish, not only meet the highest standards and expectations but exceed them, so customers can drive around with pride. The owner of DMC has been known to fly out to a client’s home to oversee installation personally. It takes experience, passion and care to perform such skilled technical work and make those modifications magical.

(Text: Roberliza Eugenio)

Also Read: All Fired Up: The art of modern ceramics

Perfect Pairing: Bespoke chocolate meets Johnnie Walker Blue Label

Love whisky? Can’t get enough of chocolate? Then perhaps the first-ever collaboration between Johnnie Walker and renowned French patissier Pierre Hermé could be just what you’re looking for. Created to coincide with the upcoming Mid-Autumn Festival celebrations, this partnership has resulted in a truly unique Scotch pairing experience in the form of the Haute Couture Bespoke Chocolate Gift Box.

Available exclusively in Hong Kong for a limited time only, the chocolates – made from aspecially-developed Pierre Hermé Paris secret recipe – have been specifically crafted to deliver a palate that perfectly complements the exceptional notes of the Johnnie Walker Blue Label. A bite of one and a sip of the other yield luxuriant, enticing flavours that balance and enhance each other, leaving your taste buds tingling with happiness.

The Haute Couture Bespoke Chocolate Gift Box can be redeemed from now until 10 October upon the purchase of HK$3,000 of the Johnnie Walker Collection at designated retailers including Hong Kong Liquor Store, Liquid Gold and Watsons Wine.

Gifts are available while stocks last and are on a first-come-first-serve basis.

For more information, please visit johnniewalker.com

(Info: Johnnie Walker)

Personalised Touch: Custom made décor and furniture you need for the home

Every start and end of the day begins in the comfort of your home, and there is no greater feeling than coming home to a place of your own, culminated with the objects that, not only stylistically elevate a room, but creates a living space that best speaks to the personal taste and style.

To set the tone of how you want to spend your downtime, what better way to sink into the peace and comfort of being at home than to customise your personal space with custom-made décor and furniture that best reflect your personality offer your abode a graceful lift of personality. From hand-made hardwood furniture to bespoke flower arrangements, these are the most noteworthy places to find precious custom-made decorative pieces to add to your home.

spruce hong kong custom hand made wooden furniture gafencu bespoke — Image courtesy of Sprue HK

Spruce up your home with Sprue (custom-made hardwood furniture)
With more than 50 years of combined experience in carpentry and custom-made furniture design, Sprue Bespoke Furniture owner Josh Manning and his team have made it their passion to realise homeowners’ decorative dreams, paying a close focus on the use of high-quality solid-wood joinery.

Initially starting up as a small design and craft workshop in 2013, they have since expanded their repertoire of materials, techniques and team of experts in timber joinery, metalwork, blacksmithing and upholstery (to name a few), and will soon open their first showroom in Yau Tong. Finished with natural hard wax, their furniture is easy to maintain and built to last.

The solid hardwood joinery experts build each piece by hand in Hong Kong. From measurements and interior fitout to design and finish, Sprue creates hardwood furnishings that are tailored to fit each client’s unique space and taste – whether it is a design made from scratch or a re-creation of an aspirational piece. As an average cost, projects range from HK$20,000 to HK$110,000, depending on the fitout.

For more info: (852) 5702 104 / sprue.hk

lee wah frames custom made for art gafencu bespoke — Image courtesy of Lee Wah Art & Frames

Picture perfect frames at Lee Wah Art & Frames (Custom-made frames for collectable art)
With all the talk of art collecting, it’s a surprise that there has been so little mention of custom-made framing. One shop in particular, situated in the heart of Central, has spent over four decades providing art aficionados and galleries with framing solutions for their precious investments. Lee Wah Art & Frames, founded by Ernest Chan in 1973, enables each picture to stand out with frames made of the finest materials imported from Europe and the United States. Its work is of the highest standard, adhering to quality specifications of museums and conservation institutions.

A large, loyal clientele of artists and renowned galleries appreciate Lee Wah’s depth of knowledge in design concepts that allows the creation of custom-made frames that both protect and maximise the impact of each unique work of art. The shop offers a comprehensive selection of more than 1,000 frame moulding styles that are designed with precise detailing and stylish touches to complement not only the artwork, but also the client’s interior décor and taste.

For more info: (852) 2525 9416 / lwframing.com

al-shahzadi hk carpet queens road gafencu bespoke — Image courtesy of Al-Shahzadi

Roll out in exquisite style with Al-Shahzadi (hand-woven Persian carpets)

In the ’90s, the stretch of Queen’s Road in Wan Chai was lined with shop windows gaily decorated with Persian carpets. Today, only a handful of hand-woven carpet shops are left to keep the trade alive. A standout among them is Al-Shahzadi HK, simply and affectionately known by antique aficionados as ‘The carpet shop on Queen’s Road’.

Having been established in 1952, the family-business’ 60-year legacy is now proudly continued by third-generation scion Avais Ahmad, who calls the carpet shop at 265 Queen’s Road East his second home.

A visit to its showroom does not disappoint. Backed by a staff of experts, they guide discerning customers with an eye for detail through their wide selection of high quality traditional and modern Persian carpets. Available in an array of colours, shapes and sizes, from 3ft rugs to carpets that stretch up to 20ft – all hand-made with 100 percent silk, wool or cotton.

For more info: (852) 2834 8396 / alshahzadi.com

be candle sai kung gafencu custom made soy wax candle — Image courtesy of BeCandle

Flickers of creativity from BeCandle (besoke scented candles and essential oils)
Joy, passion, warmth and nostalgia… who wouldn’t want an olfactory experience that allows us to revisit the past or brighten the mood of those around us? Creating the perfect scent that narrates a story is surely possible, especially at BeCandle, a small fragrance shop-cum-lab nestled in Wang Street, Sai Kung.

Founded in 2012 by Xavier Tsang, a product designer-turned-business owner, BeCandle takes customers on an inspiring aromatic adventure while continuing Sai Kung’s history of sustainable local production.

Offering a range of vegetal and soy wax scented candles to essential oils, produced in small batches and encased in elegant hand-blown glass, copper or ceramic vessels, Tsang puts a premium on maintaining high-quality craftsmanship. He says, “Growing up in Sai Kung village, then living in Italy and travelling the world has given me a mix of unique experiences that inspired the creation of the brand”. This creativity extends to collaborations with international and local clients for exclusive and one-off pieces – each an expression of the individual’s personal journey.

For more info: (852) 8481 7684 / becandle.com.hk

gary kwok flower arrangement tailor made hand picked flowers gafencu bespoke — Image courtesy of Gary Kwok Flowers & Design

Blooming marvellous floral art by Gary Kwok Flowers & Design (Bespoke flower arrangements)
Anybody can purchase a bunch of flowers and drop them in a vase, but proper flower arrangement is an art form. Beautifully styled bouquets, garlands and elaborate floral displays are more than just decoration. According to Gary Kwok, founder of the epynomous floral design brand, “flower arrangements elicit a deeper connection with nature and ourselves”.

With a passion to translate floral art into a sensory experience that enlivens and transforms any space, Kwok offers a bespoke service that is personal to each client. “I want people to experience flowers as living objects that they can admire, appreciate, touch and even integrate into their daily lives,” she says.
Whether it is a launch party, a wedding or a special arrangement for the home, the skilled florists at Gary Kwok Flowers & Design support your celebration of every important moment in life through their use of raw materials imported from European countries such as the Netherlands, and a play of colours that highlight the unique beauty of each flower and the individual taste of each client.

For more info: (852) 8200 9226 / garykwok.com

joseph porcelain gafencu bespoke — Image courtesy of Yuet Tung China Works

A touch of elegance and tradition through Yuet Tung China Works (hand-painted porcelain wares)
Hand-painted Chinese porcelain is famed across the globe for its delicate craftsmanship, intricate decoration and exclusive price tag. An art and cultural practice once reserved for the use of the imperial court and export, this centuries-old tradition continues at one particular – and endearingly humble – porcelain factory in Kowloon Bay.

Yuet Tung China Works, established in 1928, was the first large-scale hand-painted porcelain factory in the city. It is now the oldest and one of last remaining producers of fine porcelain in Hong Kong. Headed by Joseph Tso, the shop’s third-generation owner and manager, the company endeavours to keep this disappearing trade alive.

There is little that the skilled artisans at Yuet Tung China Works cannot do. Specialising in custom-made, hand-painted, functional and decorative porcelain wares, they can create a wide array of products for diverse tastes, from dinner sets to lamp bases and fish bowls to accessories and gift boxes in any size, colour or design.

For more info: (852) 2796 1125 / porcelainware.com.hk

Featured image courtesy of Sprue HK