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    How to create fabulous interiors with high-end textiles with Durup

    Lifeby Sarah Joseph2 hours ago Founder of DURUP, Nicoline Durup is bringing Danish chic to the Middle East with a bespoke approach to luxury drapery with its high-end textiles to create fabulous interiors.Launched n 2019 DURUP wants to create a luxurious atmosphere with plush fabric — for any home, anywhere in the world.To delve into her journey as an entrepreneur, Emirates Woman, spoke to DURUPWhat does the first 30 minutes of your day look like, your morning routine?Being a mum to a 5-year-old means my day often starts early, around 6am. If it’s not too hectic a morning, my first 30 minutes starts with the essentials, coffee and jazz. I love how jazz can awaken your body and fill your mind with positive energy for the day. Most recently, I’ve been listening to the Icelandic jazz singer Laufey and while she is playing in the background, I’ll sip my black coffee in the kitchen, make breakfast for Edith, check my e-mails, and repeat my self-invented mantra: ‘Chaos makes the muse’.What inspired you to launch your own interior brand?My career began in the fashion industry where I was lucky to have worked with incredibly innovative and fashion-forward brands, including Stella McCartney. The early experience evolved into a love and appreciation for the broader world of textiles and interior design, which was why I founded Durup. I still apply that haute couture sensibility to my work. In a sense, Durup is not your parents’ curtain company. I started this journey with a vision to breathe new energy and life into what has historically been a staid and old-fashioned industry by bringing high-end fashion into the home. Since then, the company has evolved into a multidisciplinary practice that works with global clients to create bespoke interior experiences built on Durup’s founding principle that custom drapery is the cornerstone of good design.How does the design meeting ensure a personalised touch for each client?Getting a deeper understanding of the client is an important part of the process: everything from their lifestyle, hobbies and interests, sensibilities and of course their personal sense of style. I always say, dress your home like you would dress yourself as, it’s not just about fabrics and function. It’s about an ever-evolving lifestyle that invests in the beauty of things – in quality and considered luxury. The drapes set the scene in the home and tell a story about its inhabitants. Getting to know my clients on a personal level helps me to create a bespoke interior experience that truly expresses their individuality.What elements define your style as an interior designer and artist?Curating exquisite fabrics are my starting point as an interior designer. Simply put, I want to change the conventional way people think about drapes as something functional or as an afterthought. For me, it’s the starting point because, when done well and with consideration, drapes and other home textiles – including rugs and wall coverings – create a powerful foundation for the home, the cornerstone of good design. Like a haute couturier, my approach is completely white glove and bespoke. I use fabrics that have historically not been used as much for drapery and other home textiles, rich expressive fabrics like wool, textured cotton, silks with expressive patterns and more to bring to life the unique stories and sensibilities of my clients, and to help them form a deeper connection to the spaces they inhabit.How has the UAE according to you become an important part of the design world?Right now, I’m living between Copenhagen and Dubai and from the start I have felt this inspiring, creative energy in the UAE that is so well suited to the Durup approach, and which has always been about bringing a new point of view to an established perspective. I have found my clients here to be endlessly curious and open and, more broadly, I have encountered the kind of exciting creative experimentation in design here that I think will have a bigger impact in the design world in terms of taste making and trend setting.Your wallcovering pieces are meticulously crafted – how does the process begin?Wallcovering, and especially fabric wallcovering, has become a go-to-interior element and a thing not to miss when decorating your new space. Like drapes, wallcoverings are a foundational element in interior design, and can set the scene like no other element in a space. Imagine a room with walls covered in pure wild raw silk, which is spun, dyed, and woven by hand. Not only does it create a gorgeous atmosphere, given the rarity of the fabric, but it also creates a truly unique luxury experience in your home.Each textile element is carefully sourced – talk us through the creative process.Durup is pioneering a new way of working with textiles. We think beyond drapes to reflect the sensibilities and lifestyle of our clients. I source and curate the fabrics myself from every corner of the world, and only work with fabrics that both reflect the Durup vision and commitment to quality, but also bring something unique and extraordinary to the table. That said, Durup fabrics are a wide range, everything from beautiful and delicate cashmere from a small supplier in France to our sustainable curtain collection which we launched under the name “Unbottling Beauty.” That was a very special project, created from upcycled plastic that was carefully collected from the ocean’s beaches by impassioned volunteers.The Al Quoz Curtain Collection is inspired by the Emirates – tell us more.I have found travelling in the UAE to be a magical experience. The vibrant colors, the golden light, the intricate level of detail in the architecture and the careful and considered way women here approach beauty – all of it inspired me to do a curtain collection under the name Al Quoz. For me, this was also an opportunity to beautifully bring together our two cultures, fusing the muted Nordic color palette and minimalist design approach with the Emirati love of texture and heavier materials. I’m very proud of this collection as it brings together two of my favorite parts of the world.In terms of trends, which fabric do you see is most popular?Linen never goes out of style and for a good reason. Bringing in linen gives any room a natural feeling and with linen, there are also many different variations in terms of weight and texture, which means that you can truly create a specific mood in the room. More recently, I’ve noticed a new trend among textile suppliers of using not just one but two different patterns or fabric compositions in one curtain. So, for example, you can source a fabric that has soft Chanel-esque bouclé on one side, and a printed course silk fabric on the back. This is a cool trend, and one that allows me as designer to create an even more personalized experience for my clients, creating drapery that like good art will reflect the refined sensibilities of my clients.“I want to change the conventional way people think about drapes as something functional or as an afterthought.”This is the Creativity Issue – where do you find your creative inspiration from?I live on a plane these days and find a lot of creative inspiration while traveling for work. I love to people-watch and to truly experience local life in the different cities I travel to. I also find huge inspiration in art, and I rarely leave a place without a visit to at least one contemporary art gallery. But above all, I find inspiration in fashion. I love exploring the connections between fashion and interior design. These two worlds are so intertwined for me that I think of drapes as the foundational outfit of any space. My design approach is centered around self-expression and an investment in timeless luxury – that’s why I always say, dress your home as you would dress yourself.– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramMay’s – The Creativity Issue with Tiffany & Co. – Download NowImages: Supplied  More

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    9 luxurious restaurants in Dubai with spacious private dining areas

    Lifeby Sarah Joseph3 hours ago When it comes to an exceptional dining experience, Dubai always knows how to deliver.However, to add an aura of intimacy and opulence to your next special occasion, why not opt for a private dining room?With five-star cuisine and service, these Dubai restaurants offer an outstanding experience with their decadent private dining rooms.From plush interiors to a bespoke menu, Emirates Woman has curated a list of all the luxe Dubai-based venues with a secluded space tailored to your needs.AmazonicoThis jungle-inspired venue gives guests a chance to dine in their private dining room for all types of special occasions. For larger groups, the restaurant offers a completely secluded dining space, where semi-private areas for smaller groups are also available upon request. Up to 20 guests can dine together in an intimate setting with access to the luxe rooftop and views of Dubai’s scintillating skyline. With Latin-American cuisine, diners can be taken on a sensory journey along the Amazon river with some eclectic tunes.For more information visit amazonicorestaurant.com.Shanghai MeInspired by the culinary traditions of East Asia, this haven encapsulates a rich heritage through a fusion of cocktails and dishes. This 1930s-inspired restaurant has a hidden luxe private dining area for bespoke events to meet any given requirements.For more information visit shanghame-restaurant.com. Le GuépardDesigned as a dedicated private dining space in the heart of Alserkal Avenue, this experiential venue can be tailored according to anyone’s personal preference. By cooking up a bespoke culinary menu, Chef Yanis Yahou takes guests on an unforgettable journey with each bite. Inspired by the French Riviera, guests can host birthday celebrations or corporate events with vintage décor, that’s sure to impress.For more information visit leguepard-est2021.com.Cé La ViWith out-of-this-world Burj Khalifa views and a fusion of fragrant ingredients, CÉ LA VI is the culinary hotspot is one that everyone needs to visit. The contemporary Asian menu curated by executive chef Howard Ko is second to none and the entire restaurant experience will leave you wanting to go back for more. For an event to remember, guests can host special occasions or corporate events that create a lasting impression. The private dining room, enclosed within a bamboo forest-themed interior, can host up to 10 guests and is ideal for gatherings, meetings to tastings.For more information visit celavi.com.RokaIf there’s one Japanese Robatayaki restaurant that you need to try is ROKA. Featuring a prominent red 3D brick wall, the restaurant offers a hidden dining space perfect for intimate gatherings. With dishes from the restaurant’s main menu and a long banquet hall, it’s surely a luxe option to add to your list.For more information visit rokarestaurant.com. GAIAThis award-winning Greek-Mediterranean restaurant is designed with a modern palate and a delectable menu created by Chef Izu Ani. With its captivating charm, there’s something for everyone to sit and dine for hours. With a private Chef’s Table situated on the outskirts of the kitchen at the lower level, guests can enjoy a 12-seater dining experience. Surrounded by white stone walls and intricate details with copper pans, the table and journey are designed for an intimate gathering.For more information visit gaia-restaurants.com.At.mosphereIn the world’s tallest building, this exquisite restaurant awaits. For a premium dining experience with a seating capacity of up to 16 guests, the restaurant’s culinary team brings the most meticulous creations to life while you dine sky-high.For more information visit atmosphereburjkhalifa.com. ZumaBy adding a sophisticated twist to the Japanese Izakaya style of cooking, Zuma offers authentic dishes that make people come back for more. The restaurant’s private dining area is the ideal place to host a social luncheon, brunch or corporate dinner in its unique space with a solid oak wood dining table that can seat up to 20 guests. Alternatively, the room can be divided into two separate spaces to accommodate 10 guests each.For more information visit zumarestaurant.comIl Borro Tuscan BistroIl Borro is the go-to restaurant in Dubai for five-star Italian cuisine. The fine-dining hotspot’s private dining area is the perfect place for an intimate gathering of 10 to 15 guests. Guests can experience a bespoke menu of three to four courses according to their dietary requirements.For more information visit ilborrotuscanbistro.ae– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramImages: Supplied & Feature image: @Indochinedxb More

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    12 restaurants to mostly likely spot someone famous in Dubai

    Lifeby Sarah Joseph4 hours ago VIEW GALLERY/ 12 IMAGESDubai is never short of celebrity hotspots to dine at.While being a popular hotspot for tourists worldwide, these note-worthy eateries in the emirate have also hosted some famous celebrities becoming spots where you’re most likely to bump into a Royal or an A-lister.– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramImages: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @Gaia @chefizu More

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    10 coffee-table candles for a calming ambience at home

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    4 hours ago

    VIEW GALLERY/ 10 IMAGES
    After a long stressful day, candles can transform your space into an inviting oasis with its fresh notes.
    With both aesthetics and clean packaging, these candles create a relaxing ambience to slow down, set an intention and even unwind after a long day. As the perfect gift to give your loved ones or even some self-care, candles have the power to make any space feel warm and add that sense of comfort.
    By taking into consideration both quality of ingredients and burn time, Emirates Woman has curated the ultimate guide of candles for your next purchase.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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    9 of the best Indian restaurants to experience in Dubai

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    2 hours ago

    From time to time, it’s always good to add a little spice to your cuisine and indulge in an array of exquisite dishes.
    For a fine-dining Indian meal together with your loved ones, there’s no better way to celebrate any occasion than to savour a host of Indian culinary delights in style.
    With no dearth of Indian restaurants in Dubai to cater to everyone’s palate, the world of spice has seen a contemporary twist with its playful interiors and gastronomic culinary journey.
    So, if you’re thinking of where to book during the upcoming weeks, scroll through our guide of editor-approved Indian restaurants to visit.
    Atrangi by Ritu Dalmia

    Lead by well renowned Indian Chef Ritu Dalmia, Atrangi’s culinary offerings shine a spotlight on lesser-known regional Indian delicacies, infusing the vibrant venue with the comforting essence of homemade cooking. With a varied menu that caters to a diverse range of palates, Atrangi offers a personalised solution for those seeking the ultimate culinary experience. To experience the key dishes, Diners can choose between two options for the tasting menu. The five-course tasting menu is priced at Dhs440 or an indulgent seven course experience priced at Dhs640. The seven-course menu is inclusive of a delectable amuse bouche and palate cleanser, heightening the dining experience and allowing each signature plate to create a harmony of flavours with each bite. It’s available from 6pm to 12am and is located in the prestigious Jumeirah Al Qasr Hotel.
    For more information visit atrangidubai.com
    Trésind

    With a modernist take on the Indian cuisine, Trèsind has been serving fine-dining Indian cuisine and is known for its exceptionally innovative culinary offerings. With Executive Chef Mohammed Zeeshan at the helm, Tresind now offers a Premium Chef’s Tasting Menu for its patrons to offer an unparalleled dining experience. Guests can experience a variety of dishes such as Cannoli Samosa with Tomato Chutney, Asparagus Salad, Truffle Mushroom Consommé and more. The price starts at Dhs550 for both the Veg and Non-Veg menu, and is available throughout the week during dinner hours this tasting menu includes Amuse Bouche, Chaat, a selection of starters, palate cleanser, a selection of main courses and desserts. Diners can end their meal with desserts such as Black Forest Mithai Tart and Paan Cotton Candy. Located at the Arabian Court at One&Only Royal Mirage in Dubai Marina, it’s open from 12pm to 4pm and 7pm to 11pm.
    For more information visit tresind.com
    Aamara

    If you’re looking for a unique dining experience inspired by the ancient Silk Route, check out Aamara at the VOCO Hotel on Sheikh Zayed Road. Here to dazzle your palate during the Festival of Lights with an exclusive 10-course Diwali tasting menu priced at Dhs(all inclusive) per person. The dishes include rustic onion focaccia served with zaatar pesto hummus, delicate butterfly prawns accompanied by mohmara chutney and more which is available until November 16, 2023. Aamara has curated a menu that celebrates the diversity of flavors and techniques shared along this historic route. Guests can look forward to a moody interior with a modern, contemporary finish, a Mediterranean and Indian-inspired menu, and a captivating cultural fiesta.
    For more information visit aamara.ae  
    Masti

    After shifting to a new location, Masti is all set to welcome guests to its restaurant situated at the Dubai Edition. Listed in the first Michelin Guide this restaurant brings a bold 360-degree experiential offering of innovative food, experimental beverages and unmatched hospitality. Masti remains emboldened and unafraid to be different. The new location will take risks and deliver a buzzing dining scene, with a sprinkling of Masti spice at The Dubai Edition. Befitting of the restaurant’s legendary reputation, the iconic Dubai Edition Hotel, optimally positioned on Fountain Street, Downtown will prove a stellar destination from which the restaurant can shine from. The restaurant is open from Sunday to Thursday from 12:30pm to 1am and 12:30pm to 2am.
    For more information visit mastidubai.com
    Indego by Vineet

    Known for its experimental take on Indian cuisine and craft cocktails, the restaurant was opened by the first Indian Michelin chef who has curated an eccentric menu with fine-dining presentation. With brightly decorated interiors in an intimate setting, where the sharing-style menu features street food-inspired dishes prepared on a griddle, clay oven, grill and stew pot. Located in Grosvenor House, it’s open from Monday to Friday 7pm to 12am and Saturday and Sunday from 1pm to 4pm and 7pm to 12am.
    Rang Mahal

    This restaurant brings an elevated touch to Dubai’s dining scene with innovative and creative Indian cuisine in an upscale setting. In celebration of Diwali, the upscale Indian restaurant will launch a masterfully crafted 9-course set menu on November 12, 2023 that offers diners a taste of the vibrant colours of India. The menu thereafter will be available daily. The culinary team have put together a carefully curated offering specifically for the festival of lights, featuring a special multi-course dinner with an optional beverage pairing, fitting for the Diwali celebrations. The 9-course set menu features a selection of popular favorites from Rang Mahal, with each dish designed to transport diners through the myriad of flavours of the Indian sub-continent. Located within the iconic JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai, the menu is priced at Dhs375 for a 9-course set menu and Dhs495 for a menu with a beverage.
    For more information visit mariott.com
    The Crossing

    To celebrate the annual festival of lights, The Crossing at H Hotel is offering a special menu until November 12, 2023. Michelin-acclaimed Chef Jitin Joshi has crafted a set menu featuring their signature dishes like Patti Chaat (reimagined using tempura shiso leaves, chickpea chaat, creamy yoghurt, and tangy chutneys) and Chicken Makhan Malai (tandoor chicken with mint labneh and pickled onion) plus some exclusive Diwali specials. From lunches with colleagues to grand 20-course feasts, they have something for everyone. With options starting from Dhs175 per person to all tastes. For a grand and luxurious celebration, guests can also book an exclusive, customisable experience with the Chef and Sommelier for only Dhs450 per person.
    For more information visit crossingtherestaurant.com 
    Little Miss India

    Visitors are immersed in a unique full entertainment experience as they are invited on a culinary tour of India with our glamorous globetrotter and fictional character. Guests can enjoy a myriad of dishes such as Dal Bati Churma, Jodhpuri Gatte with gram flour dumplings and even traditional Rajasthani sweets with age-old recipes. The restaurant is open from Monday to Thursday 6pm until 11pm and Friday to Sunday 2pm until 11pm and is located at Fairmont The Palm.
    For more information visit Fairmont.com
    The Cinnamon Club

    This colourful haven Dubai redefines modern Indian cooking, leading the charge with a stunning new menu of contemporary Indian cuisine created by Chef Vivek Singh and Head Chef Kamini Jha, which combines some of the Cinnamon Legends from the highly successful Cinnamon Collection in London, including the original Cinnamon Bazaar and Cinnamon Kitchen dishes, with a number of thrilling promotions making their way to the venue. From Chaat to chai, each dish is carefully prepared for guests to savour. Located in Park Hyatt, it’s open daily from 6:30pm to 11:30pm and is closed on Monday.
    For more information visit hyattrestaurants.com
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    How Café Kitsuné is now making waves in the UAE

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    16 mins ago

    Cafe Kitsuné shares how the French-Japanese brand has created the magic recipe for success in the Middle East after opening their first cafê in Dubai.
    Talk us through the concept of Cafe Kitsuné.
    We opened our first Café Kitsuné locations in 2013 in Tokyo’s Aoyama district followed by another one in Paris’ iconic Palais Royal Gardens. Since then, Café Kitsuné has grown to a network of 28 cafés in 20 cities across Europe, Asia, North America and the Middle East, and it has achieved cult status amongst specialty coffee lovers around the world. Everywhere in the world, visitors will find chic and convivial venues, with a Paris-meets-Tokyo feel, a clean and minimalist aesthetic, combined with local-inspired elements.

    The ubiquitous fox logo is everywhere – talk us through the creative inspiration behind it on the merchandise.
    Kitsuné is the Japanese word for fox, a symbol of versatility. Legend has it, the fox possesses the power to change its appearance. It translates directly to our cafés as well: we don’t have one single café with the exact same interior design and atmosphere. Each of our cafés has its own identity while expressing the distinctive Café Kitsuné Art de Vivre.
    As a highly popular coffee shop in Paris and Tokyo – how did the brand decide to bring it to the UAE?
    We really love Dubai, its lifestyle, its modernity, its versatility and the overall vibrant atmosphere of the city. You can feel an undeniable energy. It is an inspiring and innovative city, especially for the Food & Beverage scene. Nowhere else in the world is quite like Dubai. We feel very honoured to be able to open our very first Café Kitsuné location at H residence, in the iconic Jumeirah. We can’t wait to further share our Café Kitsuné Art de Vivre and savoir-faire with the Emiratis.

    What are the key dishes at Café Kitsuné Dubai?
    The global culinary imprint of the brand is still apparent and can still be savored even in a menu that is exclusively curated for Dubai. At Café Kitsuné Dubai, visitors will be able to taste our Café Kitsuné unique savoury and full-bodied coffee blend and to pair it with our signature pastries as our Fox-shaped Shortbread, our signature matcha eclair… The café also carries local exclusives such as a rose blossom cake, a Tropézienne tart, that will evolve according to seasons. Café Kitsuné Dubai also offers a delightful savory menu, presenting the brand’s special recipes: the French toast, the shakshuka and our iconic sandos. The menu features unique dishes such as the smashed burger, the breakfast sandwich and the lobster roll with homemade potato crisps.
    The coffee is highly sought-after – tell us more about the source and brewing process.
    Whether it’s in Tokyo, Paris, Seoul or NYC, the coffee served at the Café Kitsuné is a tasty and a balanced combination of two single origin arabica beans, where aromas of chocolate and honey blend perfectly with fruity flavors. It can be enjoyed in situ or as a take-away and comes as an espresso, macchiato, americano, latte, cappuccino, cortado, flat white or mochaccino. From Brazil and Guatemala, the coffee beans are roasted with the utmost care.
    Talk us through the interiors.
    Kitsuné’s in-house architecture and design studio recognized the importance of presenting Café Kitsuné with a global brand identity together with Middle Eastern aesthetics. The cafe’s minimalistic architectural design seamlessly integrates with its surroundings. Featuring Café Kitsuné’s iconic herringbone pattern, the idea is to pay homage to traditional craftsmanship while adding a contemporary touch. Though not imposing, guests can also appreciate the intricate placement of brass and Arabesque elements across the restaurant.
    What lies ahead for Café Kitsuné?
    We opened our first Café Kitsuné location 11 years ago and we only started to expand internationally six years ago. We took time to learn more about coffee culture, the process of roasting, to find the good partners etc. For all our activities, the key has always been to go deeper and constantly improve the quality of our offer, our savoir-faire and propose an outstanding service to our customers. Our customers will soon be able to enjoy Café Kitsuné in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, by the end of 2024. In the UAE more specifically, our brand has strong ambitions, with the opening of several new Cafés, in Abu Dhabi and Dubai.
    Located in H Residence, this café is open from Monday to Sunday from 8am to 11pm and more information can be found on maisonkitsune.com
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    11 romantic restaurants in Dubai to celebrate any special moment

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    2 hours ago

    VIEW GALLERY/ 11 IMAGES
    Thinking of planning a special dinner for your upcoming anniversary? We’re here to help.
    There are a myriad of romantic hotspots for couples in Dubai – be it for your proposal, wedding, honeymoon, anniversary, or any special occasion you wish to celebrate – you’re sure to find something to fit your taste.
    From surreal views to a dimly lit interiors, this emirate never short of venues to celebrate your special occasion, hence there’s no room for letting romance slip in Dubai.
    Explore our curated guide of romantic venues to dine at for a special evening of cherished memories with your loved one.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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    15 birthday gifts that the Taurus in your life will appreciate

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    2 hours ago

    With birthday celebrations around the corner, finding the perfect gift for the Taurus in your life can be quite the task.
    For those with birthdays from April 20 through May 21, these reliable and practical individuals have exceptionally particular tastes. Overall, the Taurus is an earth sign represented by the bull.
    Like their celestial spirit animal, Taureans enjoy relaxing in serene, bucolic environments surrounded by soft sounds, soothing aromas, and succulent flavors. Taureans would spend all day bathing in a tub overflowing with essential oils.
    Known for taking their physical wellness seriously, as an Earth sign, anything created from natural materials can go a long way, as their love for sustainable, organic and and expertly crafted pieces goes a long way.
    So incase you’re in need of inspiration, swipe through our guide of potential gifts to *add to cart*.

    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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