Category Archives: Lifestyle

Christophe Claret Angelico

Recently my ‘Independent Watchmakers’ book was featured in the New York Times. It was a huge honour to have a detailed review written about this publication because the project was immensely enjoyable. The journalist who interviewed me is a highly professional British lady called Melanie Abrams. We spoke in depth about the brands included and why I embarked on the project in the first place. I explained (as watch designer) it fascinated me how companies go to enormous creative lengths to create extraordinary timepieces. A great example can be found in luxury label Christophe Claret. » Read more

JJRR/Arquitectura Casa Vertientes

A few days ago I watched a fascinating documentary entitled ‘Olé Olé Olé!: A Trip Across Latin America’. This 125-minute feature starring and produced by The Rolling Stones chronicles their 2016 tour around Latin America. What makes this film so special is the bond between these veteran rockers, who still at the top of their game. Much of the footage gives the viewer an intimate glimpse of the real Argentina, Brazil, Cuba, Colombia, Peru, Uruguay etc. They also visit Mexico, which borders closely with the United States. Certainly, many people have preconceived ideas about Mexico’s capital city. However, as I discovered it does have some amazing contemporary architecture. A great example can be found in Casa Vertientes by JJRR/Arquitectura. » Read more

Architects Ink Sugar Gum House

In the next few months, my book about Australian architecture will be released worldwide. The project was commissioned by Schiffer Books, who are based in Pennsylvania, United States. This is the fourth book I have completed for this progressive publisher. The original idea was developed with my editor Cheryl, who has a particular interest in architecture. Her vision for this edition was to showcase a broad variety of residential homes in Australia. This continent has several different climates and diverse terrain, which dictates the materials used. » Read more

Torsten Nagengast EXTREME

Over the last few years I have written numerous articles about exquisite watches and developed a rare insight into the politics of the industry. So many marketing executives that have worked for the large corporations have subsequently left to pursue careers in entirely different fields. Interestingly these people wanted full editorial control of my reviews, which obviously I didn’t consent to. It wasn’t so much about the fine timepieces but more about the message they wanted to convey. I can relate to this to a certain extent (because at the end of the day it is a business) but there also has to be a degree of passion. This is why I have always gravitated to smaller independent watchmakers like Torsten Nagengast. » Read more

ASTBURY & KENT Stellaris

Every month I meet up with a good friend of mine called Mario for a coffee and a chat at a local café. He’s a chiropractor and general fitness fanatic who is also pretty obsessed with design. Therefore, the conversation normally revolves around architecture, luxury lifestyle and horology. Today’s topic focused on my (soon to be released) ‘Independent Watchmakers’ book, which feature 62 exclusive brands. Mario was fascinated to hear about the project because he now is addicted to his Apple Watch. This device certainly has revolutionised the watch industry and had an impact on sales. However, at the entry level spectrum of the market there are still some very stylish affordable timepieces on offer. A great example can be found in ASTBURY & KENT’s new Stellaris Range. » Read more

W3 Architects Glentree Road

Virtually 7-years ago (to the day) I emigrated to Australia with my family in pursuit of a better life. Certainly, this amazing country has massively exceeded my expectations and I now consider it home. However, I have got ties with the United Kingdom in particular rental properties. One of my apartments is located in a historical building and resembles a Manhattan-style loft. I meticulously renovated the property by adding a freestanding solid beech kitchen, designer column radiators and Victorian panelled wooden doors. Recently I have considered selling it so I can raise finances to build a house in Adelaide. If this does actuate I would be tempted to design something like Glentree Road. This amazing home was completed in 2013 by award-winning practice, W3 Architects. » Read more

Abraham John Architects Villa in the Palms

Later this year my 6th book about Australian Architecture will be released worldwide. As I have mentioned before the project was commissioned by a Pennsylvania (United States) rather than a domestic one. Essentially my editor Cheryl (who’s also a renowned author) is fascinated with this region and the diverse landscape. Therefore, she wanted me to choose residences that adapt to their environment. The majority of my final selections are not multi-million dollar mansions but humble dwellings with an abundance of character. The same can be said about Abraham John Architects Villa in the Palms. » Read more

Reiulf Ramstad Arkitekter Micro Cluster Cabins

A couple of months ago I had a very interesting meeting with a designer called Chris Clarke. Interestingly Chris has no formal training (in architecture) but has created several amazing homes. He originally began his career commercial building and worked on large corporate multi-million dollar projects. Ultimately this had an adverse effect on his health and had to take several years off. This gave him time to reflect and was the catalyst for establishing his new company Swale Modular Homes. This flexible way of living allows buyers to make additions over the years or have several different units. With land at a premium and this could a sustainable for families in the future. » Read more