Style Blog | Designs on life: Craftmanship is key this month

Which do you admire more, a beautiful natural landscape or a beautiful painting of a natural landscape? The perfection of a snowflake’s composition or the complexity of a skyscraper’s structure? Regardless of your spiritual beliefs, there is nevertheless something to be said for man-made design.

The vision, the skill and the genius behind a design define us as creative, intelligent beings, and this month we celebrate some of the most inspiring things mankind has brought into existence.

For our November issue’s cover story, we take a look at the wonderfully detailed world of bespoke men’s shoes. Here, trends give way to personalised perfection, and we explore how having something designed entirely to suit our sizes and tastes can be an indulgence unlike any other.

We’re not alone in our admiration of craftsmanship. Our Muse this month, Van Cleef & Arpels’ Nicolas Bos, explains how the company’s stunning, romantic jewellery pieces are only possible through the meticulous work of skilled craftsmen. Given their pledge to never compromise on quality, these talented artists are responsible for some of the most sought after designs in the jewellery industry.

Meanwhile, Kartell’s Claudio Luti proves that rare materials are not a prerequisite of good design. The brand, best known for its avant-garde plastic furniture, has shown the world that with the help of creative talent and innovation, a product can still look high-end even when made of inexpensive materials.

Design certainly plays a big part in our everyday needs, particularly those of shelter and transport. For our featured home this issue, we take a tour through the open, airy space that architect Guz Wilkinson designed for Stephen Fisher – a gorgeous seaside abode that has been called one of the world’s most relaxing homes. In this month’s Spend It, we look at what HK$18 million can get us in the way of car customisation. From a tailor-made exterior wrap to an aircraft-grade glass roof, the result is a luxury vehicle that puts even the batmobile to shame.