Edition No.9

THE MYSTIQUE OF MUSTIQUE

Renowned for its exclusivity and privacy, the island of Mustique has long attracted the rich and the famous, with the likes of David Bowie, Tommy Hilfiger, and Princess Margaret known to spend their downtime here. In the studio, we explore the influence this stunning island has had on design and share our OBS take on a Mustique getaway.

DOES LAB-GROWN STILL HAVE A PLACE IN LUXURY?

As various industries seek more sustainable processes and materials, it's no surprise that many brands have experimented with lab-grown options. After their exploration with lab-grown diamonds led to a sales decline, De Beers announced in May that they would cease their lab-grown diamond production, choosing instead to focus on the unique attributes of natural stones. As members of the luxury sector, we understand the delicate balance between exploring new options and maintaining levels of quality. This is why we're intrigued by developments in lab-grown luxury leather. The new technology involves a process that uses cells to artificially create tissue, resulting in a structural and genetic match to traditional leather. With brands like Stella McCartney pioneering vegan leather, advancements like this are sure to make brands reconsider their traditional use of leather. As certified Positive Luxury members, we are always on the lookout for new sustainable materials and processes, and this is one development that we’ll be following closely to see how it progresses in the world of interiors.

A PLAYFUL TAKE ON LUXURY

Following our Oliver Burns Studio rebrand late last year, we've become even more attuned to other brands' creative direction. A recent article on Matter of Form discussed the role of humour in branding and its potential to foster relationships with customers and clients. But how does this play out in the luxury sector, where campaigns and branding have historically been quite serious? A perfect example of striking the right balance is Belmond, a leader in luxury travel with impeccable service and exquisite destinations. Their latest campaign, entitled ‘Legends,’ pays homage to their history while introducing a contemporary feel. Collaborating with various creatives, their imagery captures concierges playing hide and seek, and smartly suited men submerged in pools with plates of spaghetti. The campaign celebrates the unexpected and evokes a sense of thrilling escapes and experiences—it's a campaign that leaves us eager to book a trip ASAP.

BELMOND X DIOR

Talking of Belmond… well-known for their iconic Eastern & Oriental Express, Belmond reconnected their train with its tracks in February of this year. The transformation includes the introduction of the first Dior Spa in one of the saloon cars. The pairing of these two brands is a match made in heaven, with their romantic and whimsical approach to travel, fashion, and beauty celebrating luxury at its finest. Painfully teasing ourselves by looking at the treatment list, we chose the Asian-inspired 'D-jungle signature treatment, 'which awakens the senses and promises a 'sensory escape.' – one we believe would enhance the experience of travelling through the majestic rolling landscapes of Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand.

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‍OBS LOVES: ABEL CARCAMO’S NEW COLLECTION

Inspired by traditional craft and collaborating with local craftspeople, Abel Carcamo’s work has recently caught our eye. As our design team finalises specs for some very special pieces in upcoming projects, we discovered this artist who specialises in unique, organically shaped sculptures. Featuring various textures, the pieces above are cast in aluminium, highlighting their distinctive shapes and sculptural quality.

LUHRMANN TAKES ON HITCHCOCK

Celebrated for his eccentric style and aesthetic, we were excited to hear about Vogue’s September issue featuring 'Heist of the Heart'—an exclusive shoot by Baz Luhrmann. Starring Blake Lively and Hugh Jackman, the shoot reimagines Hitchcock through Luhrmann’s lens, with Lively transformed into a cat burglar clad in Cartier (Elizabeth Taylor's jewels, no less), and Jackman channelling a modern-day Cary Grant.

Turning his hand to photography for the first time, we were intrigued to see how the creative approached the shoot and his process. Luhrmann revealed that he 'skipped moodboards,' opting instead to go straight into storyboarding, treating the shoot with the same meticulous detail and attention as one of his blockbuster films. The result feels like stills from a cinematic masterpiece, capturing his signature style while telling the story of a modern femme fatale who 'had to hustle to stay alive. 'We love everything about it—from the set design and costumes to the modern day Hollywood glamour.