Cry of the Wild: Conservationists around the globe are answering the urgent call to combat catastrophic climate change

Every day seems to bring disturbing news about record global temperatures, devastating wildfires, warming oceans and rising levels of greenhouse gases. In Seoul last month, citizens endured 26 consecutive ‘tropical nights’ of temperatures above 25 degrees Celsius, breaking a century-old record.

This scorching scenario has been replicated around the world. Higher temperatures are creating more frequent extreme weather events with calamitous consequences on communities and the environment. Ocean ecosystems, for instance, are in such a rapid rate of decline that scientists warn of ecological changes that should take millions of years happening within a lifetime.

It is under this challenging environment that bodies like The Nature Conservancy (TNC) are conducting all-important work, and they are under no illusions as to the enormity of the task ahead. “As a global organisation, we’re focused on building the science and the solutions needed to address the biggest conservation challenges of our time: climate change and biodiversity loss,” says Will McGoldrick, TNC’s Managing Director for Asia-Pacific.

Founded in the US in 1951, TNC is an environmental non-profit organisation whose vision is to support a liveable climate, healthy communities and thriving nature. It has more than 5,000 staff working in nearly 80 countries and territories to advance conservation work that benefits nature and people.

“Nature is the planet’s oldest technology for holding global warming in check. Healthy forests, wetlands, grasslands and peatlands store and absorb massive amounts of carbon. Our role is to harness their full potential and connect protection and restoration efforts to economic opportunity for people,” reveals McGoldrick.

He also points out how climate and biodiversity crises disproportionately affect vulnerable and impoverished communities. “So their engagement in the solutions we build for Asia-Pacific is essential,” he says.

Critical goals

Targets set by the Paris Climate Accords, the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework and the UN Sustainable Development Goals outline a way forward in the fight against climate change and environmental protection. The 2015 Paris Agreement bound nations to the promise of limiting any hike in global temperatures to “well below” 2°C above pre-industrial levels – and to aim for only 1.5°C of warming.

Yet, a report on the State of the Global Climate released by the World Meteorological Organization this year made for grim reading. It stated that global temperatures and sea level were at a record high in modern history, and the extent of ice in the Antarctic sea is at a record low.

The Paris Agreement outlined the need for the drastic reduction of greenhouse gas emissions such as carbon dioxide. However, in a worrying summary of the prevailing situation, the annual Global Carbon Budget report indicated that fossil-fuel CO2 emissions hit an all-time high in 2023.

McGoldrick was unequivocal about the challenge ahead: “The evidence is clear: we need to reduce emissions by at least half by 2030 to avoid the most catastrophic consequences. This requires a fundamental transformation of our systems, economies and societies. The window for action is rapidly closing – we have less than a decade to get it right.”

Imperative action

Unless action is taken soon, pessimists predict the world will become a much more dangerous place where flooding, drought, fire and unrest will force millions from their homes and habitats will be destroyed. Extreme heat has been linked to the slump in the growth of marine life by scientists.

“We have no illusions about the magnitude of the interconnected climate and biodiversity crises,” warns McGoldrick. “They require concerted, sustained efforts from all sectors – governments, the private sector, NGOs and communities among them. Only through collective action can we hope to protect nature and livelihoods closely tied to healthy ecosystems.”

TNC has set its own challenging goals for 2030. These include to reduce or store three gigatons of CO2 emissions yearly by using the power of nature and the strength of policy and markets; help 100 million people at severe risk of climate-related emergencies by protecting and restoring natural habitats; and conserve nearly 10 billion acres of ocean, 1.6 billion acres of land and more than 620,000 miles of rivers and 30 million hectares of lakes and wetlands. Finally, they aim to partner with Indigenous People and local communities to support 45 million local stewards whose well-being and livelihoods depend on oceans, freshwater and the land.

“Firmly embedded in the work we do is a commitment to uphold the rights of Indigenous Peoples and local communities to create sustainable economic growth. By doing so, TNC helps create new livelihoods, while delivering results for nature and the climate,” says McGoldrick.

Audacious schemes

To help achieve these goals, TNC is involved in what it describes as “audacious” projects. One such is the Blue Bonds for Conservation model designed to help governments unlock funding for conservation. The scheme aims to promote smarter investment in marine conservation by leveraging debt solutions to create long-term sustainable financing for conservation projects.

Blue Bonds can help governments that have high debt loads and limited access to financial capital achieve their conservation and climate action goals. Typically, TNC works with a country to refinance a portion of its national debt in a way that secures funding for conservation activities, enables valuable returns in planning and protection to improve the resilience of economies and communities, and may reduce the country’s debt burden.

“Blue Bonds are a game-changer for ocean conservation and economic growth,” says McGoldrick. “By issuing these bonds, governments can tap into significant financial savings, freeing up resources to invest in natural resources that drive their economies. Local communities, in turn, see their livelihoods and cultural heritage protected; and donors who provided the original seed funding realise incredible leverage on their philanthropic investment – a multiplier of up to 40 times”

Ocean drive

He points out the important role the ocean makes to our lives, supplying half the oxygen we breathe and sustaining fisheries that provide food and income for more than three billion people. “Coral reefs, oyster beds and seaweed forests shelter marine life and protect our shores by reducing wave energy and storm surges,” he says.

TNC is advancing Blue Bonds in island and coastal countries in the Caribbean, Africa, Latin America, the Pacific Islands and the West Indian Ocean. The scheme is part of the drive to support the two billion people living near the oceans.

A great success story that highlights the important work TNC is doing came just months ago. They helped secure a US$35 million debt-for-nature swap between the US and Indonesia that will fund community-based conservation work in the latter’s Bird’s Head and Lesser Sunda seascapes. Described as being years in the making, the deal was signed in July 2024 and helps divert funds to a jewel of the natural world which is home to some of the world’s most ecologically significant coral reefs.

Donors step up

Philanthropy is going to play an increasingly vital role in the fight against climate change and habitat loss. A Californian philanthropic coalition launched its own satellite last month to help track global methane emissions, while an anonymous donation to the tune of US$14 million enabled TNC in April to support the Queensland government’s purchase of Vergemont Station – a remote cattle ranch larger than Yosemite National Park in California.

Representing the single-largest donation to buy land for conservation in Australia’s history, the Vergemont acquisition helps protect a unique biodiversity haven. It safeguards the headwaters of Lake Eyre Basin, the source of one of the last remaining free-flowing arid river systems in the world, and will join existing national parks to create a conservation corridor of about 1.4 million hectares, including key habitats for endangered wildlife.

“Our donors are the backbone of our conservation efforts,” reveals McGoldrick. “A diverse group of people who come from all walks of life, they are united by a shared passion for protecting the natural world and preserving biodiversity. They believe in a science-backed approach to conservation and in our proven track record of effective strategies with tangible outcomes.”

Also in April, TNC joined the Mongolian government and community partners to launch the US$198 million Eternal Mongolia initiative to preserve the world’s last great expanse of intact temperate grasslands, sand dunes, lakes, mountains and over 13,000 kilometres of winding rivers.

Nature’s way forward

TNC considers nature-based solutions as an essential piece of the puzzle to tackle impending environmental catastrophe. These are actions that address societal challenges such as climate change and disaster risk by protecting, sustainably managing and restoring natural or modified ecosystems. The key habitats of the oceans, for instance, are vital for climate stability. Coastal wetlands – such as mangroves, salt marshes and seagrass meadows – draw in carbon as they grow and store it in rich, underwater soils.

“Propelling nature-based solutions and protecting biodiversity are imperative – we have years not decades to shift to nature-positive business practices and to drive the urgent, concerted action needed to safeguard our planet’s future,” says McGoldrick of this pivotal moment in human history.

Magical Johnson: Madame Web’s Dakota Johnson rises above the film hate and those who bring down others in life

Few aspiring Hollywood actors can boast the pedigree of Dakota Johnson. As the daughter of Miami Vice icon Don Johnson and Working Girl Melanie Griffith, and granddaughter of glamorous The Birds star Tippi Hedron, Johnson’s path to fame was paved with both privilege and the challenge of carving out a star in her own right. Remarkable performances, savvy career decisions – for the most part – and a strong sense of social responsibility have seen her deliver beyond the high expectations placed on famous offspring.

Dakota Mayi Johnson, who turns 35 next month, was exposed to the entertainment industry at birth – in Austin, Texas, where her father was shooting a romantic thriller, The Hot Spot. Her childhood was defined by transience, as she accompanied her parents to countless film sets and premières around the world. This unmoored upbringing, as she has described it, instilled the talent of adaptability and a desire to find her own anchor.

Despite her parents’ discouragement, her interest in acting blossomed early on. She began modelling at the age of 12, honing her skills and gaining confidence in the public eye. However, her path was not without obstacles – she was diagnosed with ADHD as a child and struggled with depression in her mid-teens.

Shades of Success

Perhaps inevitably young Dakota’s first film was a family affair as she and her half-sister, Stella Banderas, appeared as the daughters of their real-life mother in Crazy in Alabama (1999), directed by her stepfather, Antonio Banderas. Her breakthrough, though, came in 2015 when she landed the lead role of Anastasia Steele, opposite Jamie Dornan, in the highly anticipated film adaptations of the Fifty Shades novels. Navigating the complex and controversial nature of the character, she demonstrated a nuanced understanding of the role, earning praise for her performance.

While the Fifty Shades trilogy faced widespread criticism, Johnson’s portrayal of Anastasia was often cited as the standout element. She used the platform to advocate for women’s rights and body positivity, forging her status as a voice for empowerment in the industry.

Roles to Play

Following the exposure of the Fifty Shades films, Johnson’s career took an impressive turn. She showcased her versatility in a range of roles, from the crime drama Black Mass (2015) to the horror film Suspiria (2018) and the coming-of-age story The Peanut Butter Falcon. Her performances draw critical acclaim, solidifying her reputation as a talented and versatile actress. In 2021, she delivered a standout turn in the psychological drama The Lost Daughter, directed by Maggie Gyllenhaal, cementing her status as a dramatic powerhouse.

Alongside her acting career, Johnson has demonstrated a keen entrepreneurial spirit. She co-founded a production company, TeaTime Pictures, with the goal of developing compelling film and television projects. This venture has allowed her to expand her creative horizons and take greater control of her artistic choices.

Additionally, she has advocated for important causes, including collaborating with more than 300 women in Hollywood to establish the Time’s Up initiative against sexual harassment and discrimination in the industry. Her commitment to empowerment and social responsibility has solidified her reputation as a multifaceted and socially conscious artist.

Web Insight

Johnson’s intelligent rise to Hollywood lead player hit a bump this spring when she starred in the superhero film Madame Web. Not only was the movie’s financial reception lacklustre, but it was also lambasted by the media. Characteristically, she speaks candidly about the experience: “It’s like, ‘Dakota Johnson Breaks Her Silence on Madame Web’s Fucking Box Office Failure,’” she told Bustle magazine with a laugh in her first major interview following its debut. “No, I’m not breaking any silence. I’m just talking.”

She didn’t mince words when asked about the “nasty reviews” garnered by the Sony Spider-Man Universe offering. “Unfortunately, I’m not surprised that this has gone down the way it has,” she replied, explaining that often in large studio ventures springing from lucrative intellectual property (Marvel comics in this case) “decisions are being made by committees, and art does not do well when it’s made by committee”.

“Films are made by a filmmaker and a team of artists around them. You cannot make art based on numbers and algorithms. My feeling has been for a long time that audiences are extremely smart, and executives have started to believe that they’re not. Audiences will always be able to sniff out BS. Even if films start to be made with AI, humans aren’t going to want to see those.”

Superhero Ending

The performer added that she is unlikely to get entangled in another Madame Web-esque project: “I had never done anything like it before. I probably will never do anything like it again because I don’t make sense in that world. And I know that now.”

Johnson previously spoke about her complicated relationship with the Fifty Shades trilogy, and she shared similar feelings regarding her latest movie. “Sometimes in this industry, you sign on to something and it’s one thing, and then as you’re making it, it becomes a completely different thing, and you’re like, Wait, what?” she says. “But it was a real learning experience, and of course, it’s not nice to be a part of something that’s ripped to shreds, but I can’t say that I don’t understand.”

She has hinted at behind-the-scenes discord, revealing in one interview that “drastic changes” were made to the script and joking on Saturday Night Live it was “kind of like if AI generated your boyfriend’s perfect movie”. Her costar Sydney Sweeney also participated in the roasting, saying in her SNL episode: “You might have seen me in Anyone but You or Euphoria. You definitely did not see me in Madame Web!”

Positive Trajectory

Despite the web of negativity, Johnson has taken the experience in her stride, using it as a learning opportunity as she continues to navigate her career. Her candid reflections offer a refreshingly honest perspective on the realities of working on a high-profile, studio-driven project.

Dakota Johnson’s journey from the daughter of Hollywood royalty to a breakout star in her own right is a testament to her talent, resilience and unwavering determination. Through her diverse and acclaimed performances, her entrepreneurial ventures and her advocacy work, she has reached a unique and inspiring place in the entertainment industry. Her story serves as a shining example of the power of talent, tenacity and a willingness to challenge the status quo.

Valextra – handbags of timeless beauty

Each Valextra handbag is a product of beauty and outstanding craftsmanship, and here CEO Xavier Rougeaux talks about the company’s constant search for perfection and what makes the handbags unique.

Founded by Giovanni Fontana in 1937, Valextra is one of Italy’s most renowned and discerning leather goods brands. Taking inspiration from its hometown of Milan, Valextra’s handbags and luggage encapsulate its commitment to engineering beauty to conceive meaningful everyday objects of desire.

From the iconic Tric Trac wristbag, first conceived in 1968, to the Iside handbag that arrived in 2011, preservation and innovation are symbiotic in Valextra’s approach to craft and construction. Signature details, such as the black lacquered Costa edging; the fine, handpainted Inchiostro lines; and our famous shade of Pergamena white have endured as discreet yet distinctive signatures that make Valextra recognisable around the world.

History of brand

The name Valextra is made up of the words Valigeria – meaning luggage in Italian – and Extra, resulting in a moniker of lively excellence. It also stands for “Value Extra”, the promise of going above and beyond overcoming any fracture between an individual and their personal belongings.

Engineering excellence

Every Valextra product fuses beauty with function: nothing is merely decorative, every detail has a pragmatic meaning, realised with elegance. Through urban craftmanship, we design objects of beauty for daily life and are committed to achieving this through the most sustainable means.

Pergamena leather

The process gives the leather a unique tonality of white, very similar to original writing scrolls and parchment (which translates to Pergamena in Italian).

Pergamena has become the most iconic Valextra shade and the most elegant of white hues among any other leather goods “Pergamena” leather, used during the 1930s for luggage, is a skin of lamb, sheep, goat or calf after it is treated with a special technique that makes it thin, rigid and resistant.

Black Inchiostro ink

After the leather is raw cut, Valextra adds its unique finishing: the black Inchiostro ink on the edge of every cut piece of leather. It’s a handpainted signature on every object to make it functionally beautiful. The leather is first flattened using heat, then a coat of ink is manually applied. While painting this edge, there is no room for mistakes. Therefore, only the most talented artisans can achieve that continuous line of craftsmanship.

The Unique Code

Each Valextra handbag and piece of luggage has its own unique code that relates to the bag and the artisan who made it. It’s a hallmark of our proudly Italian craft and a bespoke ode to its production.

Minority Generosity: The Ruttonjees, a Parsi family, exemplify the diversity of Hong Kong benevolence

Along with other great philanthropic families in Hong Kong history, the Ruttonjees have left an indelible mark on the city. Their legacy has been amazing acts of giving and the establishment of vital charitable foundations. Through their generosity, their footprint on the social fabric is wide, deep-rooted and continues to this day.

The story of the Ruttonjee family, in many ways, mirrors that of Hong Kong – an epic tale of trade, entrepreneurship, philanthropy and, sometimes, overcoming huge adversity. They are Parsis, an ethnoreligious group originally from Persia (now Iran) that migrated to India, and their patriarch, Hormusjee Ruttonjee, arrived in Hong Kong from Bombay in 1884. He soon began trading in wine, spirits and provisions and founded the family company, H. Ruttonjee & Son, Ltd. Ruttonjee Hospital in Wan Chai, formerly Ruttonjee Sanitorium and dating back to 1949, is the most visible of the family’s many gifts to the city.

The Ruttonjees: Industry, Foresight & Charities, a coffee-table book launched earlier this summer, superbly documents their contributions to the success and well-being of the community. Aside from preserving their own family history for future generations, the tome is intended as a celebration of all those industrious families who have enabled Hong Kong’s rise, no matter their ethnicity or background. It will be placed in public libraries, providing insight to all on how and why the city has thrived.

Ethnic diversity

“Since 1842, numerous ethnic groups have contributed [to Hong Kong] and this should be highlighted to the young local population,” says fourth-generation family member Noshir N. Shroff. He cites the fine examples of many other Parsis in the early years of Hong Kong such as Sir Hormusjee Mody of brokerage company Chater and Mody, and Dorabjee Naorojee Mithaiwala, founder of the Kowloon Ferry Company (forerunner of the Star Ferry).

“The Indians have been traders for a long time and have contributed to the robust Hong Kong economy,” notes Shroff, while stressing that other ethnic minorities, including the Filipinos and the Nepalese, were also instrumental in Hong Kong’s growth over the last century, working alongside the local Chinese population and the British.

Entrepreneurial drive

It was Hormusjee Ruttonjee’s determination to succeed that most impresses Shroff as he surveys his rich family history. He particularly admires his great-great-grandfather’s entrepreneurial spirit, coming to Hong Kong by ship and venturing into segments of the market where he saw opportunities but had little knowledge.

This flair for business was inherited by Hormusjee’s son, Jehangir H. Ruttonjee, who struck out on his own, founding the Hong Kong Brewery and Distillery Ltd. The Sham Tseng brewery he opened in the 1930s was subsequently acquired and operated by San Miguel until 1996.

Noshir Shroff is proud of how Jehangir overcame the many obstacles standing in the way of his vision. He was able to gain not only the necessary water rights from the government but also the support of the villagers. In a testament to his business ethics, he rented their land, one parcel at a time, rather than buying it outright, thus affording them a regular annual income.

Winning hearts

Indeed, it was Jehangir’s sympathetic interactions with the locals all those years ago that, in part, initiated the family book. When its author, Carl Lau, was conducting his doctorate research in the Sham Tseng area, the Ruttonjee name was repeatedly mentioned by village elders.

Shroff retells the story: “The villagers recalled how they wanted a piece of land for a school and clinic, and were prepared to purchase this, but Jehangir told them he would not sell – he wished to give them the land.”

When Lau eventually met Shroff and his family, it was agreed that he would write a book about their history – not just their connection to Sham Tseng but their wider business and philanthropic endeavours.

Enduring hardship

The Japanese occupation of Hong Kong during the Second World War counts among the biggest challenges the Ruttonjee family would face. In these dark times, they housed and fed many fellow Parsis in their two Duddell Street buildings, with all welcome to shelter in the basement during air raids.

Although Jehangir’s prominence and reputation initially earned him the ear of the Japanese, his activities soon began to raise their ire. “Jehangir orchestrated a fundraising campaign for the maintenance and relief of British [civilians held in the internment camps],” relates Shroff. “That was a step too far for the Japanese and resulted in him and his son, Dhun, being imprisoned and brutally tortured.”

Following a turbulent post-war period with the collapse of the stock market and crop failures, Jehangir sold the brewery business to San Miguel ¬– and in characteristic fashion steered the money into numerous charity projects.

Charity after tragedy

The tragic passing of his two daughters, Tehmi in 1944 from tuberculosis, and some eight years later, Freni of cancer, shaped the direction of the family’s charitable legacy. “Despite the grief [of Tehmi’s death], Jehangir provided funds for setting up the Ruttonjee Sanatorium for those affected [by TB]. This building is now the home of Ruttonjee Hospital, a part of the Hospital Authority,” says Shroff, who is exceedingly proud of this project.

Establishing the Hong Kong Anti-Tuberculosis Association in 1948 – now named the Hong Kong Tuberculosis, Chest and Heart Diseases Association, and involved in the management of the Ruttonjee and Grantham Hospitals – has, Shroff believes, made a huge difference to the people of Hong Kong. “Commitment to the association has become a [Ruttonjee-Shroff] tradition with several family members serving on the board of directors,” he says.

After the death of his second daughter, Jehangir erected the Freni Memorial Convalescent Home for the rehabilitation of tuberculosis patients. “Decades later, once TB was in permanent decline, this building became the Freni Care and Attention Home for the aged,” explains Shroff. The 250-bed nursing home, the Rusy M. Shroff Dental Clinic and four Chinese medicine clinics come under the remit of the Hong Kong Tuberculosis, Chest and Heart Diseases Association.

Passing the baton

Jehangir Ruttonjee was also President of the Hong Kong Society for the Protection of Children from 1950-1955, patron of the Family Planning Association of Hong Kong and chair of the Hong Kong Model Housing Society. “He died in 1960, having donated HK$2 million over his lifetime, a considerable sum in those early days,” says Shroff.

Following the death of his son Dhun in 1974, the mantle as head of the family passed to Rusy Shroff, the nephew Jehangir had adopted along with siblings Beji and Minnie after their father was lost at sea during a typhoon in 1931.

Good deeds

The importance of religious faith cannot be underestimated in the family story. The Parsi community practise Zoroastrianism, one of the world’s oldest monotheistic religions. “The core teachings of Zoroastrianism are good thoughts, good words and good deeds. Charity plays a very big part here,” says Shroff.

Other Parsi families who came to Hong Kong in the 1800s used their fortunes for the good of the city. Hormusjee Mody’s largesse, for example, enabled the founding of the University of Hong Kong.

Shroff believes such acts of benevolence are the Hong Kong way. “Look at the number of charitable foundations established by our local tycoons,” he says. “They have profited by Hong Kong and are giving back. The favourite saying of my uncle, Rusy Shroff, was ‘To live is to give and forgive’.” In 2017, three months before Rusy Shroff passed away at age 100, he established the Rusy and Purviz Shroff Charitable Foundation, which has since given more than HK$200 million to charities in Hong Kong, mainland China and India.

Enjoy fantastic luxury all-inclusive cruises with Regent Seven Seas Cruises

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Amazing destinations

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The Most Exclusive Addresses at Sea™

The luxury liners boast lavish accommodations on board, with the one-of-a-kind Regent Suites (available only on Seven Seas Grandeur®, Seven Seas Splendor® and Seven Seas Explorer®) setting the bar very high in the level of opulence and sophistication.

These are suites of 4,400-plus square feet which rise above everything else on the Seven Seas with its best-in-class amenities, exclusive to its residents. The unparalleled craftsmanship and meticulous detail attended to in the creation of these masterpieces are evident in everything from the unique design choices, which include gorgeous, rare works of art, to the grander features like an in-suite, master bathroom spa retreat and a custom, hand-crafted US$200,000 Vividus bed from the renowned Hästens brand.

Delightful views

The Regent Suite at the ship’s bowcomes with an ocean view that surpasses that of the best high-rise penthouses. Each morning and every evening, experience a new and stunning vista as we sail from one beautiful destination to another. You’ll be free to enjoy an unobstructed, panoramic perspective from a glass-enclosed sitting area on the bow of all three ships and breathtaking views from the expansive wrap around balconies.

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High Whisk: The Mira Hong Kong’s European restaurant is speeding to a whole new level of gastronomic excellence

Whisk at The Mira Hong Kong has undergone a remarkable transformation under the leadership of Culinary Director Sheldon Fonseca. With his extensive experience honed in Michelin-starred kitchens of London and Gaia and La Petite Maison in Hong Kong, the chef has brought his culinary expertise and passion for sustainability to elevate Whisk’s dining experience. The cuisine is firmly modern European, and from the moment you step into the restaurant’s warm, elegant atmosphere, it’s clear that an exceptional culinary journey awaits.

Sustainability is at the heart of Whisk’s culinary approach. Chef Fonseca has carefully curated a menu that highlights consciously sourced seafood, artisanal meats and locally grown produce. The restaurant’s partnership with the Sustainable Restaurant Association has earned it the highest 3-star rating, reflecting the team’s unwavering dedication to responsible sourcing and environmentally conscious practices. Much of its seafood, including lobster, shrimp and tuna, are MSC (Marine Stewardship Council) certified as sustainable.

Sweetly flavoured ama ebi, complemented by zesty notes of Japanese fruit tomato, finger lime and sea grapes, is a delightful starter that whets the appetite. Likewise, white tuna tartare, a delicate dish elevated by the luxurious touch of Kaviari oscietra caviar and the earthy, slightly floral notes of smoked eggplant.

A standout main that exemplifies Whisk’s commitment to sustainability is Boston lobster tail, cooked to perfection and served with a light yet creamy shellfish emulsion. For a true taste of the South China Sea, crispy amadai with local fish bouillabaisse and saffron rouille showcases the chef’s skill in crafting a light yet intensely flavoured dish.

Turning to the land, the menu proudly showcases artisanal meats from renowned producers. Westholme wagyu beef tenderloin, served with golden brown, buttery potato fondant, glazed shallots and a rich red wine sauce, is a deceptively simple yet exceptionally flavourful dish. Boucheries Nivernaises pork loin, with pork cheek, morcilla and a spiced pork sauce, is a testament to the restaurant’s commitment to sourcing the finest quality ingredients.

For a truly unique dining experience, plump for tea- smoked Cerizay pigeons, featuring tender pigeon from a small atelier in France. The bird is expertly smoked with lapsang souchong tea leaves and served with black garlic, turnip and potato purée.

Whisk’s culinary team has also created a must-try signature dish in the form of whole roasted yellow chicken for two. Stuffed with truffle and mushroom between the skin and the meat, this locally sourced three-yellow chicken is a delightful celebration of Hong Kong’s culinary heritage, elevated with the addition of Australian black truffle and served with Japanese genmai 10-grain rice and smoked chicken sauce.

The extensive wine list, recipient of Wine Spectator magazine’s Best of Award of Excellence, offers an impressive selection of contemporary and fine old-world wines, as well as biodynamic and organic choices, ensuring the perfect pairing for every course.

“Maintaining a stable and professionally fulfilled team, ensuring regular menu rotations with more unique ingredients, growing our guest base in a sustainable way that allows us to focus on continuously improving the flavours and surprising Hong Kong foodies with affordable, high-quality dining which you do not have to cross the border to enjoy – these are some of the things I’d like to put down on the list of goals,” shares Chef Fonsesca.

He also stresses the many advantages of developing sustainable business practices: “They enhance employee productivity, reduce cost and can result in increased profits. To make the sustainability initiatives successful, it takes dedication from senior management down to rank-and-file employees to embrace it fully. Its my role to set an example and nurture that spirit among the team through continuous training and education, to create a win-win for our guests, our shareholders and employees, while keeping the environment in the big picture.”

Whisk, 5/F, The Mira Hong Kong, 118 Nathan Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong

Photos: Whisk – The Mira Hong Kong Video: Jack Fontanilla

Proxima – kitchens made to optimise space

Superb new addition to Arclinea Collection

Designed and coordinated by Antonio Citterio, the latest model added to the Arclinea Collection – Proxima –is a highly equipped, high-performing, and professional product, which integrates large American appliances, and emphasizes their personality with stronger details such as its handle, innovative in design and size.

The handle is featured along the entire perimeter of the island and, at full height on the wall units, defines the look of the kitchen while making the opening of doors and drawers extremely easy. A kitchen designed for people and their passions, that becomes a place of experimentation, as well as a convivial space.

“I designed this kitchen thinking of a space to be experienced,” designer Antonio Citterio explains.“ The kitchen as a space to be shared, not a separate service area, has always been one of the great topics of Arclinea, of my work with Arclinea. Proxima should suggest the idea of a place to be enjoyed, where everything is extremely performing and evocative of the pleasure of preparing for others, and with others. Proxima is an object to be lived for real, a very communicative and empathic product.”

Ease of access with Proxima

As the name suggests, Proxima aims to encourage proximity, both physical: the ease with which one can access and use cooking tools, and metaphorical: shortening cultural distances in the preparation and consumption of foods, achieving a contamination of codes and styles able to give life to something never seen before.

In the configuration with a large stainless steel island, cooktop with integrated oven, horizontal handle and American modularity, Proxima expresses the evolution of minimalist design where function defines the final image.

Hortus for herbs

Well displayed in the Milan flagship store, Proxima is showcased together with the brand new Hortus, a piece of furniture designed for growing aromatic herbs and small vegetables. Hortus joins the Duet collection, characterized by the double large coplanar doors. Hortus represents the integration in the Arclinea design of the domestic version of a hydroponic cultivation controlled by a software, which offers the possibility of always having fresh and organic products for the table or as the final touch of a preparation. A piece of furniture that both embodies the theme of “show kitchen”, ever so important for the brand and Citterio, and the recurring dualism of Arclinea: an extremely functional appliance with a great aesthetic value.

Inverso column

Another new element is the Inverso column unit, which interprets the transition between open and close through an impressive solution. Thanks to a sophisticated mechanism, the inside of the cabinet can be completely rotated outwards achieving an ideal aesthetic result. Inverso offers the freedom to customize the storage space – some elements can be hidden while others put on display – thus working as a particularly functional component in the integration between kitchen and living room.

In the second configuration of this new product, Proxima with lacquered door and Era System snack table adopts a European modularity and encloses the appliances into the wall units, assuming a more “domestic” mood, while maintaining the features of a hyper-equipped space for experimentation and culinary creativity.

Modern Marvel: Amidst the towering skyscrapers of Hong Kong, this stunning home redefines the pinnacle of urban living

High population density, limited landmass, a superfluity of the mega-affluent – you don’t need to be too much of a genius to understand why Hong Kong real estate commands such a seemingly unreal valuation. Even with property prices tipped to rise by an additional 10 percent this year, buyers remain wholly undeterred, with the residential purchasing cycle seemingly set only to accelerate.

Purchasing property and creating a home, of course, represent very different challenges. While the former requires a mastery of certain legal and financial necessities (or the tactical deployment of someone who does), the latter requires you to give a part of yourself, as you set about transforming a developer’s shell into something perfectly tailored to your family’s values and expectations.

It was just such a challenge that faced a young mainland family of four as they sought to reinvent the 2,300sq.ft space they had bought in Tsim Sha Tsui’s high-end Grand Austin development. While their newly-completed apartment came with all the expected fixtures and fittings, it was somewhat lacking in any of the individual touches and flourishes that would mark it out as a true family home. That’s when they decided to call on the services of a professional – a professional who so successfully re-fashioned their home that it was declared the Best Apartment in the 2017 Asia-Pacific Property Awards.

Their chosen professional was Johnny Leung, Creative Director of Chinc’s Workshop, a Sheung Wan-based, award-winning interior design consultancy. Recalling the initial brief, Leung says: “The family was very clear as to what they wanted – a practical, contemporary home, with strong visual appeal and a clear bespoke functionality in each of its separate spaces.”

Seeking a theme that would provide a sense of unity across the whole space, the design team settled on the circle, seeing it as both a universal symbol of completeness and as an icon that’s synonymous with perfection for many mainlanders. With their base conceit in place, they then looked to incorporate it across the home in a series of knowing and simpatico variations – linked, multiple circles in the shared spaces, rounded cornering throughout and, where possible, the creation of curved enclaves. The circle motif was also embedded into the lighting installations, the carpeting and the occasional tables.

One of the first casualties of the circle-centred makeover was a long, straight corridor that led off from the dining area. Clearly out of keeping with the overall redoubtably round look, it was swiftly demolished, granting the kitchen area a curvaceous, open and welcoming appeal.

The bedrooms, too, were areas where Chinc’s set out to make its mark. Its most drastic move was to combine two of the rooms into an outsized master bedroom, one with abundant natural light, a commodious walk-in wardrobe and the last word in chic ensuite bathrooms.

The focus on optimising the level of natural light in the bedroom space is another hallmark of Chinc’s approach. Explaining this particular element of the company’s design philosophy, Leung said: “No apartment, no matter how beautifully decorated, can look its best if the lighting is not right. By removing unnecessary walls and introducing pocket sliding doors and glass partitions, we subsequently maximised the use of natural sunlight.

“We also employed asymmetric ceiling light housings to provide a diffused lighting effect overall in many of the rooms. We also opted to install down-lights in specific areas, all designed to create a dramatic look and feel as the night rolls in.”

While the tactical use of illumination has clearly boosted the home’s individuality, it is the sophisticated – yet playful – use of materials and upholstery that has gifted it the warmth the family was looking for. Whether it’s the wallpaper that morphs under various light sources, the individually-curated collection of custom ceramic tiles or the singularly-shaped selection of somewhat avant garde lounge chairs, an endearingly quirky and individualistic style prevails throughout the whole apartment.

While winning a pan-Asian award for the quality of its interior design work is clearly all to the good for Chinc’s Workshop and its future new business prospects, the real winner here is clearly the family. Given the studied elegance of their abode, coupled with its innovative and thoughtful use of space, light and design, how could any family not thrive in so accommodating a locale?

Images: Chinc’s Workshop

Dragon’s Breadth: From the Tardis to the Iron Throne, Matt Smith is an acting ace on fire

Matt Smith has cemented his status as one of the most versatile and captivating actors of his generation. Beginning with his breakthrough role as the Eleventh Doctor in the beloved British sci-fi series Doctor Who, he soon gained plaudits for his portrayal of Prince Philip in Netflix’s The Crown, and now he’s bringing down the house (no potential spoiler intended) as another royal consort, Daemon Targaryen, in the slow-burning HBO blockbuster House of the Dragon.

Smith’s ability to inhabit complex, larger-than-life characters has earned him critical acclaim and a legion of devoted fans. Born in 1982, in Northampton, England, the young Matthew Robert Smith was a passionate athlete, excelling in sports like football and golf; he captained the Leicester City youth team before an injury put paid to his professional soccer dream. He had to be pushed by a teacher to participate in a school drama, but this discovery of the performing arts would ultimately shape the course of his career.

“I was always a bit of a performer as a kid,” he reflects. “I loved being on stage, entertaining people. It just felt natural to me, like it was something I was meant to do.”

Even before completing his Drama and Creative Writing degree at the University of East Anglia, Smith was treading the boards with the National Youth Theatre. More stage roles and a sprinkling of television credits followed, but when he caught the eye of the Doctor Who production team in 2009 and was announced – at just 26 years old and a relative unknown – as the Eleventh Doctor, the startled British entertainment media quipped “Doctor Who?”

Right on Time

Smith’s tenure as the iconic Time Lord (2010-2014) proved pivotal and it was a test he passed with flying colours. Tasked with stepping into the shoes of revered actors like Patrick Troughton, Jon Pertwee and Tom Baker, and more latterly Christopher Eccleston and David Tennant, he brought a unique blend of youthful energy, quirky charm and dramatic depth to the role.

“When I got the call to be the Doctor, I was over the moon,” he recalls. “It was a dream come true, but also a huge responsibility. I knew I had to make the part my own while respecting the legacy of the character.”

His portrayal was widely acclaimed – he even secured the Doctor’s first Bafta TV nomination for Best Actor. Smith quickly became a household name, and his memorable performances and eccentric wardrobe were the stuff of pop-culture legend.

Jewel in The Crown

After leaving Doctor Who in 2013, Smith continued to showcase his versatility, tackling a wide range of roles in film, television and theatre. In 2016-2017, he earned critical praise for his portrayal of Prince Philip, opposite Claire Foy as Queen Elizabeth II, in the first two seasons of The Crown. He captured the complexities of the Royal consort with remarkable depth and nuance, receiving an Emmy nomination and an unexpected response from Philip’s grandson, Prince Harry.

“I met Harry once, at polo, which sounds a bit grand, but it wasn’t that grand,” remarks Smith. “And he walked up to me and went, ‘Granddad’.”

The actor adds: “It was a fascinating challenge to bring such an iconic historical figure to life. I wanted to explore the man behind the public persona, to understand his motivations and the weight of his responsibilities.”

Fire Starter

More recently, Smith has assumed the mantle of a very different prince – Daemon Targaryen in the highly praised and watched Game of Thrones prequel series, House of the Dragon. Channelling his signature blend of charisma and intensity, he has wowed audiences with his dynamic turns as the complex and often-controversial Targaryen prince.

The spin-off was a big gamble, considering the somewhat divisive reaction to Thrones’ series finale. It began promisingly, with many judging its 2022 pilot better than the entirety of GoT Season 8 – in no small part due to Smith’s presence as an arrogant swashbuckler – and has matured in the second season into a satisfying and occasionally terrifying battle of wills between, and within, the Greens and the Blacks.

Woke Bloke

The actor was recently hailed online for gently correcting a red-carpet exchange in which a reporter misgenders his House of the Dragon co-star Emma D’Arcy. During an interview at the Season 2 premiere, he discussed the climactic moment in the first-season finale when Daemon notifies Rhaenyra (D’Arcy) of the loss of her son, Lucerys. Sue Perkins, the host of Sky’s fan programme House of the Dragon: War Room, had earlier spoken to D’Arcy and used the wrong pronoun when telling Smith that “she gave you all the credit” for the scene.

“I can’t take the credit, [but] I have to say, aren’t they brilliant?” he answered smartly, using D’Arcy’s preferred ‘they/them’ pronouns. “They are absolutely brilliant and you’re in for a real treat with Emma this year, I think Emma’s put in … a really great performance.”

Smith has always lauded his co-star, and he recently confessed that part of what made filming Season 2 so tough was that he didn’t get as much on-screen time with D’Arcy. “It was difficult to do it without them because I love them – a person with real depth, sardonic humour and fierce intellect,” he remarked on losing D’Arcy as a scene partner.

Matt the Master

Smith’s ability to immerse himself fully in his characters is the result of meticulous preparation and a deep understanding of the material. “I don’t just memorise the lines and show up on set,” he explains. “I do extensive research, delving into the character’s backstory, their motivations, and the historical context of the story. I want to bring authenticity and depth to every role I take on.”

This dedication to his craft is evident in his performances, as he seamlessly transitions between the ranging emotional beats required of complex characters like the Doctor, Prince Philip and Prince Daemon. As he continues to captivate audiences, it’s clear that he is a master of his craft – a versatile and compelling actor who has left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry.

“Matt is an absolute masterclass in acting,” agrees The Crown creator Peter Morgan. “He has the rare ability to convey the full spectrum of human emotion, from the light-hearted and playful to the deeply haunting and introspective.”

Tura Collection: Roca’s Tribute to Barcelona’s Formalist Architecture

Roca, a name synonymous with excellence in the world of sanitary ware, has long been celebrated for its ability to blend innovation and timeless elegance. In the ever-evolving world of bathroom design, the renowned Spanish brand continues to push the boundaries with its latest offering – the Tura Collection to the Hong Kong market. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail and a deep understanding of modern aesthetics, this collection is set to captivate design enthusiasts and discerning homeowners alike. It is a testament to the brand’s commitment to creating products that not only enhance the functionality of a space but also elevate the overall design experience.

In a unique collaboration, the Spanish design powerhouse has partnered with renowned international local designer Andreu Carulla to create the Tura Collection – a tribute to the iconic formalist architecture that has defined the visual landscape of Barcelona. Carulla, who shares Roca’s deep appreciation for the Mediterranean character and functionality-driven design ethos of Barcelona’s celebrated architects like Sert, Coderch, Miralles, and Bofill, has meticulously imbued the Tura Collection with design cues inspired by their work.

“I always wanted to work with Roca because it makes incredible high-quality products. In addition, the use of ceramics and geographical proximity made it a perfect match. Later, I discovered we spoke the same language,” explains Carulla.

The collection’s name is a nod to this inherent connection, derived from the Spanish words for “architecture” and “culture” – a testament to how the built environment is inextricably woven into the cultural fabric of Barcelona. Carulla’s design approach for Tura is one of pared-back simplicity and functionality, taking cues from the clean lines, intersecting volumes, and interplay of light and shadow that define the formalist architectural style. The washbasins, for instance, feature a concealed drain and an interior design that mimics the patterns cast by shutters and pergolas – a subtle nod to the Mediterranean aesthetic.

Featuring a strong architectural aesthetic, the collection combines square and straight lines with soft edges and subtle curves, resulting in a mesmerizing and modular appearance. This bold and unapologetic design language sets the Tura Collection apart, making it a true statement piece in any bathroom. One of the standout features of the Tura washbasins is the innovative and elegant hidden linear drain. Seamlessly integrated into the ceramic basin, this unique design element creates a minimalist and sleek surface, free from the visual distractions of a traditional drain. It’s also proudly produced from Europe.

This innovative approach not only enhances the overall aesthetic but also simplifies the cleaning and maintenance of the basin, making it a practical and functional choice for the modern bathroom.

By blending bold architectural elements, innovative functionality, and a keen eye for detail, the brand has created a collection that is destined to captivate design enthusiasts and homeowners alike.

In essence, the Tura Collection is Roca’s way of paying homage to the architectural legacy that has shaped the distinct character of Barcelona. Through its partnership with Andreu Carulla, the brand has successfully translated the principles of formalist design into a contemporary bathroom range that celebrates the city’s rich cultural heritage.

For more details, please visit https://www.roca.hk/collections/tura

Roca’s Multiclean M1 from M Series – Elevating The Toilet Experience (Coming soon)

The Multiclean M-Series aims to transform the humble toilet into a sophisticated and technologically advanced fixture. Designed to seamlessly integrate with Roca’s existing toilet models, the Multiclean range offers a remarkable solution for those seeking to elevate their bathroom experience.

It is Roca’s answer to the growing demand for smart and multi-functional toilets. With a focus on aesthetics and user requirements, this hybrid solution can be easily installed in most of Roca’s standard toilets, enabling a remarkable transformation from a regular WC to a state-of-the-art shower toilet or a smart toilet. Afterall, enhancing a toilet should not mean sacrificing design. It is the perfect balance between functionality and aesthetics, ensuring that your toilet can become something greater without compromising the overall bathroom aesthetic.

One of the key features of the Multiclean M1 is the ability to turn your existing toilet into a shower toilet. The simple installation process allows for the integration of rear and front washing features, complete with two distinct nozzles. This durable and affordable solution requires no power source, making it an accessible option for households of all needs and lifestyles.

The Multiclean M1, the brand’s simplest offering, is a hassle-free solution for those seeking a shower toilet experience. With its quick-release seat and cover, as well as a soft-close feature, it provides a seamless and user-friendly experience. But it doesn’t stop at just enabling shower toilet functionality. Roca has also introduced a smart, non-electronic toilet seat cover that requires no power supply to operate. This exclusive feature allows for the integration of smart features in bathrooms without a power source, relying solely on the water supply for its operation.

Whether you’re looking to transform your existing toilet into a shower toilet or harness the power of technology through a smart toilet, the Multiclean range has a solution that caters to your specific needs and lifestyle.

Ultimately, Roca’s Multiclean M-Series is a testament to the brand’s commitment to innovation and its dedication to enhancing the bathroom experience. By seamlessly integrating advanced features into their existing toilet models, Roca is making the smart and shower toilet experience more accessible to households across the globe. This new item will be launching Hong Kong soon.

Roca Anchors Innovation as Official Sponsor of Alinghi Red Bull Racing at the 37th America’s Cup

Barcelona is set to host the 37th America’s Cup from August to October 2024, a prestigious international sporting event featuring cutting-edge design and advanced technology. Roca, a company focused on design, technology, and sustainability, is partnering with Swiss team Alinghi Red Bull Racing to create a comprehensive system of connected bathroom solutions. The Swiss challenger’s state-of-the-art base in Barcelona’s Port Vell, equipped with Roca’s smart bathrooms, provides an opportunity to implement a comprehensive system of connected bathroom solutions.

A showcase of Roca Connect in Spain, the company’s cloud-based smart bathroom framework, will enable the team to capture and monitor important information and behavior patterns within the installation’s bathrooms, aligning with sustainable practices incorporated into the team’s facility. This combined effort aims to optimize maintenance and cleaning costs while promoting a conscientious approach to water conservation.

Barcelona is at the heart of the partnership, with Roca’s design ethos drawing inspiration from the city’s essence. The partnership aims to leave a legacy of positive change in Barcelona, a commitment that both companies embrace. The 37th America’s Cup will take place from August 22th to October 27th, with key dates for the preliminary regatta, round Robins, semi-finals, finals, and match.

https://www.roca.com/alinghiredbullracing

To enjoy the fantastic summer offer, please go & visit Roca at COLOURLIVING now to enjoy the latest offer with up to 70% off all bathroom and kitchen products and extra 30% off all tiles with purchase of any bath and kitchen items. The shop summer promotion will last until 30 Sep.

Opening hours: Mon to Sat 10am – 7pm, Sun & Public Holidays 12nn – 7pm
Tel: +852 2510 2677
E-mail: info@rocaconcepts.hk
Address: 2/F, 333 Lockhart Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong
Website: www.roca.hk/roca-at-colourliving