Category Archives: Lifestyle

Waterstudio. NL Villa New Water, Westland

A few weeks ago I met a very talented building designer and entrepreneur called Chris Clarke. As we both love industrial architecture I suggested catching up for a coffee and chat at a trendy cafe called Folklore in Port Adelaide. This venue used to be the sales office for recent waterfront developments and has been cleverly repurposed by the current owners. Interesting the building, which is supported by stilts is similar to the type of modular homes Chris is creating for his company Swale Developments. Essentially, only three materials (glass, timber, steel) are used in construction. » Read more

Andersen Genève Art and Culture Collection (“Vita Vinum”).

Over the last few days, I have received a few press releases from brands exhibiting at Baselworld. The event seems really low key in comparison to other years. I couldn’t attend the fair this year because of other very important projects, which had to be prioritised. However, if I did have the time and money I would probably visit the show to meet members of the AHCI (Académie Horlogère des Créateurs Indépendants). These craftsmen really stimulate me to write about horology because of their integrity and passion for the industry. » Read more

Ulysse Nardin’s Freak X Carbonium

A few months ago I become a contributing writer for one of the largest watch retailers in the world. It’s an amazing opportunity because they give me enormous creative autonomy to feature the timepiece I love. One of my recent reviews focused on unique carbon fibre watches. This topic resonated with me because I actually co-designed (with my watchmaker friend) the world’s largest carbon watch called the ‘Pure Carbon’ This timepiece is featured in my forthcoming book entitled ‘Independent Watchmakers’. Another really cool carbon watch is the Freak X Carbonium by Ulysse Nardin. » Read more

INT2 House ILL

One of my favourite pastimes is to explore South Australia’s most scenic coastal destinations. On this occasion, I and a friend decided to take a picnic to Hallett Cove. Even though this picturesque suburb is only 21km outside Adelaide CBD it feels like a completely different work. Unlike other beach resorts, Hallett Cove is best appreciated from the steep cliff tops. From this point you can hear the waves crashing, view dolphins swimming and take in dramatic sunsets. For that reason, it’s a favourite with British residents and a place I would love to build a bespoke home. » Read more

GoS Watches Sarek Ladies Glacier and Sunset

For many years the watch industry has focused predominantly on male tastes. Ultimately, that is because a finely crafted timepiece is the only piece of jewellery a gentleman can legitimately wear without appearing too flamboyant. Certain friends of mine are crazy about watches and can discuss the subject for hours. They are fascinated to discover as well as being an author I also design watches. In general, my pieces are massively oversized and have an industrial aesthetic. However, they could be adapted to fit smaller wrists and even cater to the discerning female clientele. Certainly, many other brands are now producing lady’s watches including Swedish favourite Gustafsson & Sjögren. » Read more

Franck Muller Gravity Skeleton

Literally, for the first time in several years, I managed to spend an enjoyable evening with friends in Adelaide CBD (Central Business District). This special occasion was to celebrate the 13th birthday of one of my friend’s daughters. Fortunately, there were no stretched limousines in sight, just a wonderful restaurant in the popular Chinatown district. As the evening progressed the conversation diverted (with a little assistance) to my favourite subject of design. The general consensus was that minimalistic principles should apply, rather than over complicating things. These rules definitely apply in the world of horology, especially in the art of skeletonisation. A great example can be found in Franck Muller’s exciting new Gravity Skeleton. » Read more

Facett Modular Hearing Aid

A few weeks ago I wrote a review about a very special watch from Dwiss called the RS1-SG. What made the article even more interesting is that this timepiece is a 2019 entry into the ‘Good Design Australia’ awards. This prompted me to find out more about the organisation and contact CEO Dr Brandon Gien. By coincidence, Dr Gien was attending a design forum in Adelaide the following week as a keynote speaker so I got to meet him in person. In his 15-minute presentation, he mentioned products that had really resonated with him. Interestingly his favourite was an innovative modular hearing aid called Facett. » Read more

Bovet Récital 26 Brainstorm®Chapter One

Approximately 6-months ago the global franchise Goodlife opened a supersize gym in my local suburb of Adelaide (South Australia). The fitness centre has become so popular that there are literally 10 personal trainers swarming around at any given time. What makes this gym so special is the broad demographic of people that attend on a daily basis. Recently I befriended a retired mathematician who is a pretty fascinating character. When mentioned I am an author/industrial designer, he was intrigued. Mainly because I informed him about my passion for horology. Like most people, he asked about the relevance of timepieces in modern society. Interestingly, I have just written an article for one of the worlds largest watch retailers about this subject. » Read more