Belgium: A.F. Vandevorst

July 20, 2014 | Design & Culture by Ed

A.F. Vandevorst is a brand I knew before, but I have never been too interested in it. Until I visited Belgium. First of all, you need to know these two simple equation: A.F. = Filip Arickx, while Vandevorst = Ann Vandevorst. And these two are quiet, cool couple, which created a Belgian, red-crossed brand which may be easily spotted thanks to it’s characteristics. Over the years, the duo’s influences have ranged from S&M-tinged clinical uniforms (such as the SS 2007 nun habits, SS 2008 PVC trenchcoats, FW 2014 army cargo, and their signature red cross logo) to German artists such as Joseph Beuys and choreographer Pina Bausch, and a week spent with the Samburu tribe in Kenya (SS 2012). Looking at their archives, I am impressed- the brand is so sophisticated and interesting. But it always keeps it’s specific, dark-romance style.

Belgium: BRUGGE WALK

July 17, 2014January 5, 2024 | Design & Culture by Ed

What to love about Brugge? For me, the fact that it’s the most romantic (sorry, Paris), elusive and charming place on Earth. You may walk through the 19th century built streets, feel the warmth of all the citizens and eat tones and tones of mussels and waffles everyday… as Brugge (and Belgium) has a lot of to offer, here is a little introduction with my photos of the favourite places in this beautiful city!

Milan: BULGARI Hotel

August 21, 2013August 21, 2013 | Design & Culture by Ed

Yes! This is the best hotel in Milan- THE BULGARI HOTEL & RESORT! This place is bringing up biggest fashionistas during fashion weeks, super-stars and many more. I am always feeling so relaxed after few days here… Located in the centre of the the city, it’s just few steps from Giorgio Armani imperium with Armani Libre, Armani Cafe, Armani Fiore, Armani Tech, Armani Perfumes, Armani Blah-Blah and Blah plus hundreds of Pradas and Guccis. But that ain’t important for the moment. The hotel is owned by Bulgari (yes, this Bulgari) and it is simply a state of luxury! The rooms are all beautiful decorated with chocolate, beige and black colours, all supplied with Bulgari books. In big lobby you shall get some cold tea, and the breakfasts… Oh the breakfast… They are great. You won’t find better place in Milan for great relax!

Berlin: Grosz

July 27, 2013January 6, 2024 | Design & Culture by Ed

The Grosz Restaurant is the hottest place in Berlin recently, with it’s majestic interior of a renovated old building on Kudammstarsse. The food here is a mix of European and Asian- you can try here the shrimps, octopuses and clumps in Tempura and also roasted veal with thyme sauce and seasonal vegetables! Maybe the service is rude, but the atmosphere is really beautiful and relaxing after a exhausting shopping day. All cutlery is by Meisel, so pretty exclusive, and on Summer you may sunbathe with some champagne and beef carpaccio in their elegant garden. What more, there is a cute patisserie next to… This restaurant beats all other ones in Berlin with it’s classic, a bit Art Deco design, and delightful cuisine!

Berlin: Hotel Das Stue

July 25, 2013July 25, 2013 | Design & Culture by Ed

Here I am in Berlin, in a new found hotel called Das Stue- one of the most prestigious Design Hotels in the world! And I should say I am pleased. It’s really hard to find a good, hot spot in Berlin. But this one, just few steps from the Berlin Zoo. There are two Spanish restaurants by mister Paco Perez- The Casual and Cinco. Not really good, but the design upinterior here is mind blowing! You will find here the coolest furniture by famous designers kept in strong colours!
The rooms are really luxurious- the shampoos are by Diptique, and all rooms have Led TV/computers. And it’s all accompanied with Jan Kath floors and Arne Jacobsen armchairs…the biggest feature of the hotel is the view of zoo and the localisation. It’s just next to Kadewe and the most expensive stores! Definetly, Das Stue is the moments hottest spot in Berlin!