One of the most prominent brands for maintaining quality in visual and audio products, Bang & Olufsen introduces Beosound Theatre, a rule-defying soundbar that transforms the concept of home theatre with a style. Its modular keel-like design is intended to reflect the effortless grace of sailboats, giving the appearance of resting on a sheet of aluminium and floating in the air as a fluid form.
The Beosound Theatre features 12 speaker drivers, including two custom 6.5-inch long-throw woofers, and 800 watts of amplifier power to produce sound pressure levels up to 112 dB for a powerful and immersive cinema experience. Seamlessly integrating with any décor through its numerous customization options available in wood or fabric finish, it keeps your home clutter free of cables and wires.
Featuring the new three-dimensional sound functionality via a patent-pending combination of speakers that fire upwards, to the sides, and towards the listener, the Beosound Theatre gives an extraordinary spatial sound performance. Its modular design also applies to the TV screens and the cover of the soundbar, both of which are replaceable, the aluminium “wings” are also extendable for customers whose TV screens grow as they upgrade, proving that Beosound Theatre continues to provide perfectly integrated solutions promising longevity.
The soundbar is available in the colours Silver, Gold Tone and Black Anthracite while one can also choose from a fabric and an oak wood cover. The Beosound Theatre interface bracket provides the possibility to dock almost any screen to the soundbar while optimized for specific 55, 65 and 77” LG screens. In addition to the wall mount and table stand for placement, a motorized floor stand, as well as the motorized wall bracket are an option. All in all, these incredible features of the Beosound Theatre take the cinematic experience at home to a whole new level.
Win in the art of gifting with Wedgwood’s Christmas gift collection to give your loved ones presents they can cherish all year long. Their beautifully crafted, hand finished and heritage inspired festive gifts are designed with everyone in mind, whatever their personal taste and style. From gifts that will appeal to tea enthusiasts, home decorators, interior stylists, new parents or those who just love to entertain. Here are some of the notable gifts that will bring joy to any home they are taken to.
The Winter White set brings crisp, calm accents to your colourfully bold mix-and-match Christmas decor, with fine bone china cups illustrated with festive motifs and edged with platinum. The matching saucers are decorated with a striking platinum line and scroll pattern, making these a truly luxurious way to enjoy your post-Christmas-lunch cup of tea and turkey sandwich by the fire.
Being the host for Christmas get togethers is a joy and it is even better if it is done in style. Serve starters and sweets in festive elegance with Wedgwood’s Winter White plate set. Adorned with woodcut-style motifs including mistletoe and a Christmas tree, each piece is made from superior fine bone china.
Keep warm and relax with a cup of wedgwood tea in the company of friends of family this Christmas. With 25 of people’s favourite teas from all corners of the world, Wedgwood’s advent calendar will take you on a tea-drinking journey from the heights of the Himalayas to the great plains of Kenya. Filled with your favourite blends, herbal infusions, and single origin teas, we use only whole leaf teas to ensure the fullest flavour in every cup.
When it comes to decorating your home for festivities Wedgwood’s collection has everything from ornaments to baubles to snow globes. Especially the charm set which is a trio of festive decorations featuring snowflakes and stars to hang and adorn. Crafted from white porcelain and decorated with iconic Wedgwood blue details, they make the perfect gift. Redesigned and refined for 2022, add them to your wish list or give them as a gift to those close to your heart.
A perfect gift for new parents to celebrate new additions to family, Wedgwood Baby’s First Christmas ornament celebrates the first twelve months of little bundle of joys. A polar bear with a scarf available in blue and pink, inscribed with the year 2022 for you to keep and treasure forever. Made from porcelain, it’s finished with a satin ribbon with the message ‘A Magical Wedgwood Christmas’. Packaged in a Wedgwood giftbox, it’ll make the present memorable for years.
Simple as Nature: Roca’s new Ona bathroom collection unveiled
After two years of global pandemic, the world is now, more than ever, in tune with their well-being and with nature. Roca, Spanish bathroom design specialist, is no exception.
Redefining self-care with an elevated sense of comfort and hygiene, Roca has unveiled its new Ona Collection — evoking the charm of simplicity and nature’s natural beauty. Decades of research has gone into conceptualising and crafting each product in this full range of washbasins, faucets, toilets and accessories to provide the utmost quality, comfort and functionality.
A Touch of Nature Delivered with a sense of tranquility and comfort, thanks to Barcelona-based designer Cobalto Studio, the Ona Collection elevates the daily act of self-care in times of relaxation. Each product was created from natural materials carefully chosen and crafted to evoke a Mediterranean sensibility — minimalist and sleek.
Clean lines and round edges affords an aesthetic that is simply elegant yet also a juxtaposition: gentle yet strong, contemporary yet timeless — the design is an ode to the dynamic shapes found in nature, whether it is the soothing landscapes of sea and sky, the gentle waves of the open waters, or the curve of greenery that stretch across the Mediterranean.
Ona-another Level Also offering versatility across the range, the models are also available in various sizes and finishes such as matt black and rose gold. The new open back toilet, in particular, is an exemplary model of functionality, comfort and innovativeness.
Well received by Hongkongers, Roca’s rimless bowls are impeccably designed beyond elegance. Prioritising hygiene and efficiency, the Ona Collection’s rimless design — free of angles and nooks — also allows the flow of water to travel through its channels seamlessly while making it easy to clean.
It also boasts an expansion on height for greater comfort, larger push buttons, and a slim seat design and cover that features a soft close and quick release hinge.
A Global Influence Roca’s presentation of the Ona collection first appeared at the 60th edition of Salone del Mobile and Fuorisalone this year, proving the brand’s leading influence in the world of sanitary ware design.
The exhibition featured a large-scale architectural sculpture characterised by organic shapes and soft colour palettes that evoke the vernacular architecture and stone structures the surround the Mediterranean. The display was meant to encourage onlookers to explore the landscapes and lifestyle of the region.
Roca Excellence With over 100 years of knowledge and expertise, Roca has expanded its global presence to over 170 countries since its launch in Gava, Barcelona in 1917, and is backed by 84 production plants and more than 24,000 employees worldwide.
Committed to sustainable development, Roca continues its legacy of excellence, while carrying forward its values for well-being, innovation, design and sustainability in its manufacturing process, use of technological innovations, as well as in researching new materials. The company remains a benchmark for luxury bathroom designs, creating consistently excellent luxury bathroom fittings for the home and high-end public spaces.
For more information, please visit the RocaConcepts store at 1/F, The Hennessy, 256 Hennessy Rd, Wan Chai. (852) 2510 2677 / (852) 25730063. info@rocaconcepts.hk.
You can also visit their website at www.roca.hk or scan the QR codes below.
Paula started her investment journey with a beachfront holiday house on Lantau Island in Hong Kong 22 years ago to now managing & running a private exclusive Villa Romantica for luxury staycation in Sai Kung, and traveling the world while managing her Investment and marketing consultancy company.
Paula partners with Charities, world renowned real estate developers, as well as banking and finance groups in the region. With her all-rounded experiences and extensive International networks, Paula understands the importance of making informed decisions based on market needs and demand when investing in properties. She follows a number of strategies to advise clients in making real estate investment decisions whether it is a mansion or estate in London, A house in Australia or Monaco or a medical purpose-built commercial tower redevelopment in Hong Kong.
Paula Mok’s real estate investment: Exclusive Villa Romantica for luxury staycation in Sai Kung
Family is the greatest treasure to Paula and she likes wearing natural diamonds because they symbolize unconditional love and the importance of family. Paula wears the De Beers High Jewellery Collection and she said she thoroughly enjoyed her experience at the De Beers “Natural Works of Art” Exhibition.
Paula wears De Beers High Jewelry collection
Paula’s 10 Key Important Points to consider before Real Estate Investment
1.Purpose of Your Purchase
2.Current market trends in the region
3.Govt Policy, Stamp Duties & special requirements for foreigner investors
4.Interest Rate and exchange Rate
5.Political, Economy & Population Growth
6.Bank Mortgage
7.Rental Market & Yield
8.Second-hand market/ Resell opportunities
9.Location, Location and Location
10.Developer Background
“Hey women! be financially independent”
Paula’s Top 5 Money Advice for Women
1.Create a new belief: I want to be financially independent and understand its
importance that gives you greater control of your life.
2.Start saving : Set your financial goals and get into a savings habit.
3.Consider your family or partner’s needs: What’s the financial impact of
having a baby and raising a family with your partner?
4.Diversify Investment: Learn different investment vehicles, investing in real
estate is just one of them.
5.Assess the level of risk you can take: know what will be happening with your
money.
Women’s Resilience: As tough as natural diamond- Ruth Chao
Ruth Chao, Founder of RCS, wears De Beers Jewellers’ Ellesmere Treasure High Jewellery Collection
“I’m fascinated by depth, creativity, love”
The turning points that created the life I have Today:
When I quixotically applied to the art department of British Vogue 13 years
ago that kickstarted my creative career.
When I co-founded my first company with Antonia Li at the age of 25 that
began my entrepreneurial path.
When I founded my second company at the age of 30 to keep building the
creative dream.
Each turning point in my life stemmed from moments of courage.
Women’s Resilience: As tough as natural diamond- Victoria Tang-Owen
Victoria Tang-Owen, Founder of Thirty30 Creative & Victoria Tang Studio, wears De Beers Jewellers’ Enchanted Lotus High Jewellery Collection
“I adapt very easily. I can be comfortable in any sort
of situation you put me into”
Two important men in my life…
I was working for my father and was always overshadowed by him, and not allowed to cry in front of him. He said: “Excuses are just excuses. Fix it. Face it.” I had to constantly prove my creative output to him. All of these make me stronger Today.
My husband is left-brained, strategic and business-minded — a great planner. We complement each other so well in each single aspect, which is beautiful.
Starting a business is tough, how I did it..
Have a genuine passion for what you do, not falling into habits of working simply to work.
Commit to it 100%. If you don’t believe in it, no one does. Stand on your own feet.
Find the right partner and people for you to work and surround yourself.
“You are what you give, not what you are given” is what I was told in my early adult life.
Women’s Resilience: as tough as natural diamond- Alison Chan El Azar
Hong Kong Influencer Alison Chan El Azar wears Portraits of Nature by De Beers High Jewellery Collection
“I’m adventurous, determined, and spontaneous”
Alison didn’t always know what she wanted in life, but she knows that she can do something big, something important. She is always working to be a better version of herself – just like a natural diamond – when it’s polished and incorporated into a piece of jewellery, it will transform into a truly one-of-a-kind piece.
My Struggles:
I was feeling dark and lost in my teenage years, as my parents got divorced…
Thinking how to transition to the next chapter in my life and conquer the fears.
Give up other aspects of my life for being a full-time mom and my kids.
Who am I outside of mom, outside of my kids?
How I conquer my hard times:
It’s okay to feel lost and have doubt in certain stages of your life.
Waking up every day feeling motivated is just unrealistic. Do not pretend everything is alright.
You don’t need to be perfect or a billionaire.
It’s all about accepting where you’re at.
Exercise and be grateful.
What I’m looking for now:
I believe I can do something.
I look for something on the side besides being a mom.
I want to live a happy and simple life with purpose.
Take flight on a whirlwind of arts and cultural events this August. Hong Kong brings the city a slew of mesmerising performance art, the 46th Hong Kong Film Festival, and various tea and art exhibitions to visit. These are the latest happenings not to be missed this month…
International Art Carnival
An event that is entertaining for both kids and adults alike, the International Arts Carnival features striking artistic performances including music shows, dance, theatre, acrobatics, puppetry and multimedia. The IAC is designed as a family friendly space that allows artistic exposure, and encourages creative expression, for young minds. Artists from both Hong Kong and internationally have put together imaginative interactive installations and exhibitions to create individual immersive experiences – making it a must-see for the entire family.
When: Until 14 Aug How much: From HK$180 Where: Location Various locations For more information: lcsd.gov.hk
Hong Kong International Tea Fair
Tea connoisseurs rejoice! The International Tea Fair is proudly held by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council is an event not to be missed. Featuring an elaborate program of tea-ceremony demos, tastings and award shows, the exhibition will showcase a variety of tea and antique tea ware from around the world, including Mainland China, India, Japan and Sri Lanka, and is the perfect platform for tea traders and industry experts to show off their wares in a span of three days.
When: 11 – 14 Aug How much: Free entry Where: Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, Wan Chai. For more information: hktdc.com
Hong Kong Food Expo 2022
Bringing a huge variety of food options under one roof, the annual Hong Kong Food Expo is a haven for food lovers, bloggers and food business owners. The exhibits have a wide selection of food categories and beverage options. From high-end gourmet food chains to well-known household brands in the public hall, this expo has it all. Visitors can also attend health talks and witness celebrity chefs demonstrating their extraordinary cooking skills.
When: 11-15 Aug How much: From HK$10 Where: Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, Wan Chai For more information: food-expo.com.hk
Hungry Ghost Festival
Dating back almost 2000 years, the Hungry Ghost Festival, also called the Yulan Festival, is observed to appease the ghosts or ancestral spirits visiting the human realm. People give food offerings, and burn incense, joss paper and origami shaped gifts. Even for those who find the rituals and beliefs a superstition, there are Chinese operas and performances to attend and luminous decorations across the city. The festivities are arranged in various parks and temporarily built bamboo stages.
When: 12 Aug How much: Free entry Where: Victoria Park, Causeway Bay
46th Hong Kong International Film Festival
Asia’s oldest International Film Festival is finally back to showcase cinematic talent from around the world. Originally scheduled for March, and postponed due to Covid-19, the festival will now run in the second half of August. The event features local and international premiers of Hong Kong and Asian films, with screenings for over 200 films from over 50 countries. With documentaries, moving narratives and poignant short films, audiences will be in for a visual treat.
When: 15-31 Aug How much: Various prices Where: Various locations Check the website for airing schedules: hkiff.org.hk
Retrograde Group Exhibition
Curated by Cusson Cheng, Retrograde is an exhibition that features 11 brilliant artists from eight different countries. The theme of the artworks are based on the reimagines of queer identities, sparking a discourse on social inclusion of the LGBTQ community. Echoing the definition of ‘retrograde’, the unusual motion and paths of the planets that venture into new celestial ways, the artists too explore ideas that redefine the norm and challenge stereotypes.
When: Until 13 Aug How much: Free entry Where: Galerie du Monde, 108 Ruttonjee Centre, 11 Duddell Street, Central For more information: galeriedumonde.com
Hong Kong’s best vegan and vegetarian restaurants
It’s hard not to be in awe of all sorts of spells the Hong Kong chefs are casting on vegetables these days. From raw foods at supermarkets, ready-to-eat plant-based meals at 7-11s to delicious fast-food takeaways and sit-down fine dining, vegetarian and vegan restaurants are changing the way we eat, one wholesome plate at a time.
If you’re looking to veg it out in town, here are the top restaurants to book a meal:
Soil to Soul (Contemporary Korean Temple food at K11 Musea)
Contemporary Korean restaurant,Soil to Soulhas been making waves in the plant-based dining scene since it opened its doors last July. The gut-friendly menu here tastes as good as it is for your health – it’s modern, delish, uniquely fresh and original. Renowned chef Gu Jin Kwang, a protégé of famous Korean nun Woo Kwan, a master in temple food runs the place on Buddhist philosophy incorporating top-of-the-line, organic, plant-based ingredients whilst abstaining from garlic, leeks, onions and chives; not one bit compromising on the taste, flavour or your dining experience.
And good news for the ladies who high-tea, just in time for the summer, the restaurant is offering plant-based afternoon tea sets with a delightful mix of sweet and savoury delights. We love how unique it sounds! Patrons can enjoy the traditional ‘kimbap’, cabbage Roll with Ssam-Jang sauce, deep-fried veggies and rice balls with assorted jang ajji. Sweet treats include the iconic Korean traditional donut, walnut and dried Persimmon roll amongst others. Add a round of Korean herbal teas or their fine selection of plant-based mocktails to the experience and you’re sure to notch up the Zen quotient of your day!
Ma…and the Seeds of Life (Plant-based fine dining in Central)
Helmed by French jewellery designer-turned chef, Tina Barrat – Ma… and the Seeds of Life, an 1,800 square-foot chic restaurant was created to pay homage to the successive generations of talented women in the Chef’s family, and to Mother Nature who protects, provides for and beautifies life.
We relish the delicious spread of canapés, the Chiaviar, cashew cream, quinoa blinis and the orange fennel soup here. The food oozes with flavour, meticulous attention is paid to the sourcing of finest local ingredients and the final presentation. Organic, biodynamic wines complement the raw, earthy flavours and the gluten-free ‘Tiramisu’ is the perfect way to end a clean meal.
Roganic
(Michelin-starred, farm-to-table dining experience in Causeway Bay)
Image courtesy of Roganic
Those in the know are blown away by Michelin-starred chef, Simon Rogan’s farm-to-fork philosophy. Staying true to their vision, loyalists keep coming back to Roganic for an authentic, elevated gourmet dining experience brimming with the finest, local, seasonal produce. Seats get sold out pretty quickly here, you need to pre-book a tasting experience. Some dishes to expect are the the marjoram brined cabbage served with soy and glazed shimeji with a kick of wasabi, garnished with homegrown nasturtium. Let us assure you, the dining experience and ambiance here is truly opulent for a Michelin-starred restaurant.
Vegan or vegetarian conjures up images of bland, boring salad, doesn’t it? Ovolo Hotel’s plant-based restaurant, Veda is working on that misconception and changing the way people view meat-free cuisine.
Australian chef McKinnon had plenty of cultural influences in his life and that reflects in his true, contemporary cooking style. He treats ingredients with utmost respect to retain their integrity and deliver maximum flavour. The menu is designed keeping both vegetarians and non-vegetarians in mind, the wholesome Eastern and Western thalis will make a loyalist out of you! Drop in for a set lunch during work hours or a dish of earthy baked cauliflower with a plate of cheesy naanza or stick to Nepalese momos, a hearty serving of semolina potato gnocchi or good, ol’ Indian curry with steamed rice for days when you’re craving comfort food!
Lockcha Tea House (Vegetarian dim sums and fine teas at Tai Kwun)
Smooth, traditional brews and a selection of vegetarian dim sums – tastes as elegant as it sounds. The dim sums, soft buns, tea cakes at the extremely popular LockCha Tea House in Admiralty and Tai Kwun locations, are an incredible treat. Served with 70 varieties of premium Chinese tea, the expansive menu is perfect for a late afternoon date or just unwinding after a hectic day at work. The restaurant set in a restored colonial building oozes antique vibes – it resembles a Chinese scholar’s quarters and embodies the slow living mantra. Tea-appreciation classes are held on the weekends and Saturdays are generally reserved for traditional music classes. Their signature dim sums sell out quickly in the day, call to reserve a place.
Isoya (Sophisticated Buddhist-Japanese cuisine in Wan Chai)
Image courtesy of Isoya
Hong Kongers love Japanese food – there’s probably a restaurant at every corner of the city but it’s hard to eat clean and conscious when it comes to the cuisine. And that’s what makes this Buddhist-Japanese plant-based restaurant, Isoya, so unique. The couple behind this calm space run the popular Japanese hangout, Ishiyama in Causeway Bay. The vegan sushi at the Wan Chai restaurant is a huge hit – so fulfilling that you won’t miss the fish one bit, ingredients are flown in from Japan and top local, seasonal produce makes it way in the kitchens for an authentic, delicious plants-based gastronomical experience. The cold tofu dish served with seaweed is a must-have – Isoya’s soy milk supply come daily from Kyoto – we’ll excuse the carbon footprint because the fresh, creamy consistency of the milk is evident in their succulent rich, smooth tofu and bean curd.
MANA! (Organic, wholesome salad, sandwich and fast food bar in Central)
We love this contemporary restaurant for the rustic vibes and eco-friendly, zero waste policy. MANA! gets full points for using only biodegradable and 100% compostable packaging for their meal boxes. If you’re into healthy, organic wraps, raw burgers, handmade flatbreads and ready-made salad bar – you can visit their Staunton Street or the Star Street venue for a quick, warm, rustic lunch.
New Wine Ministries HK providing financial assistance the sick and poor
Since 2011, New Wine Ministries Hong Kong has continuously and consistently been dedicated to the cause of betterment of the less fortunate members of society – the poor, the sick, the neglected. From providing financial assistance to the impoverished to extending medical support to those fighting cancer, New Wine Ministries Hong Kong has touched the lives of thousands throughout its years of operations. For that, New Wine Ministries Hong Kong is extremely grateful to its generous supporters and donors who have never hesitated to extend a helping hand to the charity at all times. So it is with great hope and humility that New Wine Ministries Hong Kong urges you to join this worthy cause and continue to support the charity, now and always.
To donate, please make cheque payable to “New Wine Ministries Hong Kong Limited” and send to 1225, 12/F, Southmark Tower A, 11 Yip Hing Street, Wong Chuk Hang, Hong Kong or by telephone to 2553 2106 / 2580 8201.