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<p>The transformative effects of machine learning and the onset of AI in healthcare systems around the world have huge implications for the improvement of our wellbeing. From better and faster diagnosis to understanding and managing symptoms to drug development, as well as the more efficient management of the systems themselves, the potential is almost endless.</p>



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<p>AI has already woven itself into our lives through recommendations on social media as to what content we should click on and which adverts we see. AI systems utilise a user’s profile and demographic to make these decisions. Now, as its tools become increasingly applied to support healthcare, it may offer humanity more meaningful and lasting benefits.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Predictive power</h3>



<p>Artificial Intelligence is a statistical software using algorithms that can find patterns in large amounts of data, whether words, images, video, audio, code, or even DNA, and then make predictions based upon these. This is different from the early days of computers, which were essentially based on a list of instructions similar to how calculators operate. Modern AI or machine-learning systems – ML being a subset of AI – predict what is the most likely outcome for something. As such, there is no definitive answer, but the technology considers what should come next based upon what it has seen in the past.</p>


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<p>This formula is the building block for ChatGPT, which has the ability to find relationships between different words to predict which one should come next in a sentence, and ultimately compose advanced academic reports. The implication of this skill in making sense of big data from disparate sources is now becoming increasingly apparent in the provision of healthcare as medical research increasingly moves from code to clinic.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Success in sight</h3>



<p>In ophthalmology, for example, AI is being used to prevent blindness. Pearse Keane, a Consultant Ophthalmologist at Moorfields Eye Hospital in the UK who specialises in the treatment of retinal disease and age-related macular degeneration, first considered the potential of artificial intelligence because patients were experiencing delays in getting an appointment with a doctor. Some, in critical cases, went blind as a result. He thought applying an AI system to data gleaned from retinal scans would help identify those whose sight was most under threat and enable them to receive attention within a few days rather than weeks or months.</p>



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<p>He approached the co-founders of AI research laboratory DeepMind. “I told them we were doing 1,000 retinal scans per day at Moorfields and can we work together to develop an AI system to prevent blindness,” he relates in a BBC podcast. “The rest is history.”</p>



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<p>Researchers at Moorfields shared about one million anonymised, historical scans with DeepMind and, essentially, trained AI algorithms to recognise eye disease. The performance of this powerful AI technology was “on par with world-leading experts from Moorfields for more than 50 different retinal diseases,” says Keane.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Window to the body</h3>



<p>Interestingly, the retinal scans are also being considered for a new field called oculomics. The idea of using the eye as a window to the rest of the body to detect health conditions has been postulated for over a century. However, the ability to crunch and analyse vast amounts of data at speed has spawned a potential breakthrough. Keane enthuses: “What has been really exciting in the last four or five years is this idea that if you combine advanced retinal imaging with big data, with the latest advances in AI, it turns out that you can actually potentially predict Parkinson’s disease or dementia, or predict the risk of heart attack or stroke.”</p>


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<p>Although Keane is hopeful this technology will be widely available on an open-source basis within two or three years, he cautions: “But the caveat to that is we are still at the proof of concept; we are still pushing research-paper stage.”</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Cancer detection tools</h3>



<p>The life-saving potential of software trained to analyse millions and millions of scans was recently highlighted by an AI system called Mia used by the NHS in Scotland to detect signs of breast cancer that may be indiscernible to the human eye. Mia analysed the mammograms of more than 10,000 women and was able to flag all those with cancer, as well as an extra 11 the doctors did not identify. This ability to detect cancer at a much earlier stage could make the difference between survival and a potential early death, given that tumours can grow and spread very quickly.</p>



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<p>Here in Hong Kong, researchers at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) recently developed AI-based tools to detect 30 types of cancers and diseases. The university has developed four models which they believe are poised to transform the medical and healthcare fields, surpassing existing models due to their foundation on extensive data sets and novel machine-training strategies. Their breast-cancer diagnostic tool is said to achieve accuracy levels comparable to radiologists with five or more years of experience.</p>



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<p>Another tool is poised to act like a “medical GPT”, with the ability to answer questions, generate medical reports, and provide initial diagnoses based on medical images. A further tool called XAIM (Explainable AI) is designed to enhance healthcare professionals’ confidence in adopting AI by explaining how medical AI models reach their decisions. Researchers at the university suggest that while many AI models offer high accuracy, they often lack transparency, and this leads to scepticism about their adoption.</p>



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<p>“XAIM addresses this by providing visual and textual explanations of the models,” says a spokesperson for HKUST, which has previously developed an AI model predicting the prognosis of brain-tumour patients and a highly accurate blood test for early detection of Alzheimer’s disease.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Big data doubts</h3>



<p>For sceptics, one of the issues with using AI in healthcare is that it relies on a vast data set and its output will necessarily reflect that data set and also any errors or specific biases it contains. For instance, marginalised populations who do not access healthcare will not be reflected in the data and the results will not therefore serve the population as a whole. Another concern is that models are perceived as having a “non-deterministic” nature, meaning they will not always respond in the same way and make the same predictions to the same stimuli. Privacy of personal data has also been flagged as an issue.</p>



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<p>There is also the question of accountability. For instance, if an AI model is used to determine which patient receives a heart transplant and which does not, then who would be accountable if that judgment is subsequently proved to be wrong?</p>



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<p>Dr Jessica Morley, a Postdoctoral Researcher at Yale University’s Digital Ethics Centre, believes current AI modelling lacks transparency, especially given the complexity of its development. She tells the BBC podcast this is the crux of the AI conundrum: “If we have come to the point where something the algorithm is making a “wrong” decision – where did the wrongness start? Is it who collected the data? Is it who curated it? So how did you decide what was cleaned and what was not? Is it who designed the model or who evaluated the model? Is it who interpreted the model?”</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">AI concerns and hopes</h3>



<p>These sorts of ethical considerations are behind recent calls in Hong Kong for guardrails and protection to be put in place before the widespread rollout of AI in healthcare and other sectors, such as finance.</p>



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<p>However, many in healthcare have high hopes that AI can also reap efficiency savings and increase productivity. Tools such as AI-backed voice transcriptions, for instance, could save a huge amount of time and cost for a health system. In 2022, a McKinsey report suggested using AI to predict diagnostics outcomes and support clinical decisions could create US$5 billion in economic value in China. Many poorer nations across Africa could also derive immense benefits from AI in healthcare.</p>


Medical Code: Enabling early diagnosis and cutting costs, AI technology is seen as a saviour in healthcare


<p>A recent report presents a mixed picture of the spending habits of the ultra-wealthy on art, and the state of the art market. In gloomy news for sellers, it found that high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) reduced their average expenditure on art by almost a third last year and the share of their wealth portfolio devoted to art has dwindled. Yet analysts – including the report’s author – still point to the market’s underlying health, which will please those looking to buy art as an asset in the year ahead.</p>



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<p>Authored by Clare McAndrew of Arts Economics, the Art Basel and UBS Survey of Global Collecting 2024 acts as a microscope on the long-term dynamics of the art market. Last year’s 32% reduction in art spending by HNWIs reversed a recent trend of resilience up to 2023. Global art market sales fell to US$65 billion after two years of consecutive growth. This comes on the back of an earlier Art Basel/UBS report pointing to a cautious buying environment.</p>


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<figure class="aligncenter is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/張大千　秋山夕照Zhang-Daqian-Autumn-Mountains-in-Twilight-547x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-84932" width="274" height="512" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/張大千　秋山夕照Zhang-Daqian-Autumn-Mountains-in-Twilight-547x1024.jpg 547w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/張大千　秋山夕照Zhang-Daqian-Autumn-Mountains-in-Twilight-768x1438.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/張大千　秋山夕照Zhang-Daqian-Autumn-Mountains-in-Twilight-820x1536.jpg 820w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/張大千　秋山夕照Zhang-Daqian-Autumn-Mountains-in-Twilight-1093x2048.jpg 1093w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/張大千　秋山夕照Zhang-Daqian-Autumn-Mountains-in-Twilight-200x375.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/張大千　秋山夕照Zhang-Daqian-Autumn-Mountains-in-Twilight-800x1498.jpg 800w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/張大千　秋山夕照Zhang-Daqian-Autumn-Mountains-in-Twilight-scaled.jpg 1367w" sizes="(max-width: 274px) 100vw, 274px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"><em>Autumn Mountains in Twilight </em>by Zhang Daqian     US$25.6 million</figcaption></figure></div>


<p>Yet, according to McAndrew, these aggregate figures hide a healthy base that is underpinning the art market as a whole. While citing “the very thin number of works over US$10 million, which have really contracted in terms of supply” as a dampener, she suggests that other parts of the market, especially at the lower end, are faring well.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">High-end stall</h3>



<p>She explains that the high end of the market is driven by the vendors and whether or not they perceive it as a good time to sell. Their decision to withhold big-ticket items from the market will be influenced by the likes of economic uncertainty and geopolitical factors including major wars and conflicts. It is a very perception-driven market, partly due to a lack of transparency in some sectors. “Dealers at fairs know it is a tough time at the higher end, so they tend to bring the things they know will sell – it becomes a little bit of a cycle that way,” notes the respected cultural economist.</p>



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<p>SVN Capital CEO Stefan Terry, who advises on all aspects of art investing, concurs that these potentially worrying figures are skewed by sales and “statistically difficult-to-read” transactions at the top end of the market, thus do not constitute a health check for the whole market. He also attributes the reduction in spending by the ultra-wealthy last year to fewer masterpieces being offered for sale.</p>


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/65470084-rs-sz-7Sep_JPEG-large_p-1024x627.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-84927" width="512" height="314" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/65470084-rs-sz-7Sep_JPEG-large_p-1024x627.jpg 1024w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/65470084-rs-sz-7Sep_JPEG-large_p-457x280.jpg 457w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/65470084-rs-sz-7Sep_JPEG-large_p-768x471.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/65470084-rs-sz-7Sep_JPEG-large_p-1536x941.jpg 1536w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/65470084-rs-sz-7Sep_JPEG-large_p-2048x1255.jpg 2048w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/65470084-rs-sz-7Sep_JPEG-large_p-200x123.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/65470084-rs-sz-7Sep_JPEG-large_p-800x490.jpg 800w" sizes="(max-width: 512px) 100vw, 512px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"><em>Femme nue sur un tapis (Nude on Tapestry)</em> by Sanyu     US$24 million</figcaption></figure></div>


<p>“It’s important to look at the nuances of the market, which reveal a more positive outlook,” he says. “Though the millennial market has been more cautious recently, Gen X appears to be maintaining a high level of demand for art. The same is true of buyers more generally in Asia-Pacific, where the market continues to demonstrate robust health.”</p>



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<p>Terry also alludes to the fact – as noted in the report – that HNWIs in mainland China racked up the highest expenditure on art and antiques in 2023 and the first half 2024 compared to other countries.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Art share fall</h3>



<p>The report highlighted a fall for the second successive year in the allocation of art within HNWIs’ portfolios. It now accounts for 15% of their wealth, down from 19% in 2023, and 24% in 2022.</p>



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<p>Terry, though, remains bullish, pointing out that more than 85% of HNWIs surveyed felt art was a relatively safe investment compared to other traditional assets. He also notes that institutions have poured money into making alternative assets more appealing, and only time will tell if this is a long-term trend. “Whilst art has been transacted with the help of dealers and auction houses for hundreds of years, many of these [newer] assets are yet to prove their market depth and liquidity condition,” he says.</p>


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Lot-9-KEES-VAN-DONGEN-1877-1968-La-Quietude_p-1024x801.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-84930" width="512" height="401" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Lot-9-KEES-VAN-DONGEN-1877-1968-La-Quietude_p-1024x801.jpg 1024w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Lot-9-KEES-VAN-DONGEN-1877-1968-La-Quietude_p-358x280.jpg 358w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Lot-9-KEES-VAN-DONGEN-1877-1968-La-Quietude_p-768x601.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Lot-9-KEES-VAN-DONGEN-1877-1968-La-Quietude_p-1536x1202.jpg 1536w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Lot-9-KEES-VAN-DONGEN-1877-1968-La-Quietude_p-2048x1602.jpg 2048w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Lot-9-KEES-VAN-DONGEN-1877-1968-La-Quietude_p-200x156.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Lot-9-KEES-VAN-DONGEN-1877-1968-La-Quietude_p-800x626.jpg 800w" sizes="(max-width: 512px) 100vw, 512px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"><em>La Quiétude</em> by Kees van Dongen     HK$102.3 million</figcaption></figure></div>


<p>McAndrew expressed surprise at the decline in the proportion of art in wealth portfolios, given that art is tangible and real and is generally considered a stable investment. She feels some buyers, especially in the US, may have been impacted by higher interest rates in the past few years – according to a previous report, more than 40% of HNWIs utilised lending or credit when purchasing art for their collections. “They were leveraging different parts of their wealth portfolios and they used artworks either as collateral for lending, or they used lending to purchase artwork,” she says.</p>



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<p>She also emphasised that art is a relatively illiquid asset, and as the opportunity costs of holding it increase, people may seek an investment that can be more easily liquidated.</p>


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/On-the-Beach_pp-1024x798.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-84935" width="512" height="399" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/On-the-Beach_pp-1024x798.jpeg 1024w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/On-the-Beach_pp-359x280.jpeg 359w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/On-the-Beach_pp-768x599.jpeg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/On-the-Beach_pp-1536x1197.jpeg 1536w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/On-the-Beach_pp-2048x1596.jpeg 2048w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/On-the-Beach_pp-200x156.jpeg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/On-the-Beach_pp-800x624.jpeg 800w" sizes="(max-width: 512px) 100vw, 512px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"><em>On the Beach</em> by Marsden Hartley     US$1,865,000</figcaption></figure></div>


<p>The status-signalling aspect of buying art could be another bearish factor at play in some parts of the world. As noted during the 2007-2008 global financial crisis, purchasing high-end art may have lost its appeal for some. “If it is not perceived as a cool time to be flashing the cash, as it were, then some of the social aspects that motivate people to collect art become less of a driver, and they may hold off and wait till things pick up,” explains McAndrew.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Framing the positive</h3>



<p>The report did highlight some positive trends that reflect well on the state of the art market. For instance, over half the spending (52%) of HNWIs was placed on new and emerging artists and the vast majority also purchased from new galleries last year. Collectors are attending more exhibitions and events than they did pre-Covid, and the survey suggests the overall volume and transactions of art sales are increasing.</p>



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<p>“This is a sign of strong resilience in the market: at a time of global uncertainty, collectors remain committed to broadening their horizons and are allocating budget to buying outside of their comfort zones,” says Terry.</p>


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Lot-6_MICHAEL-SWEERTS_The-Artists-Studio-with-a-Seamstress_p-1024x757.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-84929" width="512" height="379" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Lot-6_MICHAEL-SWEERTS_The-Artists-Studio-with-a-Seamstress_p-1024x757.jpg 1024w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Lot-6_MICHAEL-SWEERTS_The-Artists-Studio-with-a-Seamstress_p-379x280.jpg 379w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Lot-6_MICHAEL-SWEERTS_The-Artists-Studio-with-a-Seamstress_p-768x568.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Lot-6_MICHAEL-SWEERTS_The-Artists-Studio-with-a-Seamstress_p-1536x1135.jpg 1536w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Lot-6_MICHAEL-SWEERTS_The-Artists-Studio-with-a-Seamstress_p-2048x1513.jpg 2048w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Lot-6_MICHAEL-SWEERTS_The-Artists-Studio-with-a-Seamstress_p-200x148.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Lot-6_MICHAEL-SWEERTS_The-Artists-Studio-with-a-Seamstress_p-800x591.jpg 800w" sizes="(max-width: 512px) 100vw, 512px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"><em>The Artist’s Studio with a Seamstress</em> by Michael Sweerts     US$$16.02 million</figcaption></figure></div>


<p>Another strengthening trend is the growth of online sales of artwork, a change in buying patterns which has continued from the pandemic. McAndrew believes many wealthy art buyers now prefer to do a transaction themselves at home sitting at a desk, even if they have seen the work in person. This means that galleries have to focus on both their live exhibitions and their digital programmes. Some analysts also point to latent demand in the online art sector that has yet to be filled.</p>



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<p>The market could be energised in the future by the fact that US billionaires are expected to transfer some US$6 trillion in wealth and assets to heirs and charities over the next 20 to 30 years – which will include huge art collections covering contemporary and modern artists. “Whether the recipients choose to keep or sell the artworks among these assets will have big implications for future average spending [on art],” says Terry.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Investor opportunities</h3>



<p>Garth Grierson, founder and CEO of Hong Kong-headquartered Art Curators Hub, which connects artists with buyers, believes that Covid prompted a reset in the art market and sellers have not come to terms with the fact that many works cannot be valued against past auction records. “Prices must be set at more realistic levels, then art will begin to sell more easily,” he says.</p>



<p>“Confidence will rise and prices will climb once more.”</p>


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Durga1-1024x858.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-84928" width="512" height="429" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Durga1-1024x858.jpg 1024w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Durga1-334x280.jpg 334w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Durga1-768x643.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Durga1-1536x1287.jpg 1536w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Durga1-2048x1716.jpg 2048w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Durga1-200x168.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Durga1-800x670.jpg 800w" sizes="(max-width: 512px) 100vw, 512px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"><em>Untitled (Durga) </em>by Manjit Bawa     US$1.98 million</figcaption></figure></div>


<p>Grierson sees the current situation as ideal for the acquisition of some very well-priced art, and given the reduction in the number of buyers at the high end of the market, the chance to procure excellent investment pieces. He also notes that strong Chinese demand is driven by investors deciding to put money into art and antiques rather than stocks and shares.</p>



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<p>Wealth manager Kenny Ho, founder and Managing Partner of Carret Private, highlights a recent rise in buyer interest in art as the ultra-wealthy who have made huge gains in US equities look for bargains. He notes, however, that many clients remain invested in the more liquid equity markets, where returns continue to be strong following Donald Trump’s victory in the US presidential election.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Hong Kong hub</h3>



<p>A key finding of the 2024 Survey of Global Collecting was Hong Kong’s continued strong demand for art imports. McAndrew believes the city ticks all the boxes as an important art trade hub: a wealthy population, a comprehensive art infrastructure embracing galleries, fairs and artists, and a positive regulatory environment.</p>


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Mornington-Crescent_Frank-Auerbach-1024x704.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-84931" width="512" height="352" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Mornington-Crescent_Frank-Auerbach-1024x704.jpg 1024w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Mornington-Crescent_Frank-Auerbach-407x280.jpg 407w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Mornington-Crescent_Frank-Auerbach-768x528.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Mornington-Crescent_Frank-Auerbach-1536x1056.jpg 1536w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Mornington-Crescent_Frank-Auerbach-200x137.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Mornington-Crescent_Frank-Auerbach-800x550.jpg 800w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Mornington-Crescent_Frank-Auerbach.jpg 1830w" sizes="(max-width: 512px) 100vw, 512px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"><em>Mornington Crescent </em>by Frank Auerbach     HK$55 million</figcaption></figure></div>


<p>“Art is a global market which we all know is cyclical,” says Elaine Holt, Chairman of Modern and Contemporary Art at Sotheby’s Asia. She noted a surge in new clients during their recent sales season in Hong Kong, as well as solid results in other centres, and eagerly anticipates the return of Art Basel Hong Kong in the spring: “This is one of the most exciting weeks for the art world, and this city, as collectors descend from all around the globe.”</p>


State of the art: Amid a waning appetite for artworks as assets by the rich, the market still draws investors’ confidence 

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Craigieburn_Effect_2_C_p-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-84883" width="768" height="512" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Craigieburn_Effect_2_C_p-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Craigieburn_Effect_2_C_p-420x280.jpg 420w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Craigieburn_Effect_2_C_p-768x512.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Craigieburn_Effect_2_C_p-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Craigieburn_Effect_2_C_p-2048x1365.jpg 2048w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Craigieburn_Effect_2_C_p-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Craigieburn_Effect_2_C_p-800x533.jpg 800w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"><strong><em>The historic Craigieburn, home to the Lane Crawford family</em></strong></figcaption></figure></div>


<p>The luxury housing market has undoubtedly picked up recently in Hong Kong, with numerous<br>high-profile transactions highlighting strong demand. Wheelock has for many years developed some of the finest properties on The Peak, an exclusive neighbourhood much sought after by wealthy families. With just a limited supply of properties, this area has become a world-class private sanctuary and draws intense interest from around the globe. &nbsp;</p>



<div class="wp-block-media-text alignwide is-stacked-on-mobile" style="grid-template-columns:75% auto"><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/MGS5261_edit-1024x576.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-84881 size-full" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/MGS5261_edit-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/MGS5261_edit-498x280.jpg 498w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/MGS5261_edit-768x432.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/MGS5261_edit-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/MGS5261_edit-2048x1152.jpg 2048w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/MGS5261_edit-200x112.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/MGS5261_edit-800x450.jpg 800w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure><div class="wp-block-media-text__content">
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Ricky Wong</h3>



<p>Vice Chairman and Managing Director of Wheelock Properties, shares the untold stories and rich history of the Peak</p>
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<p>“Wharf and Wheelock Properties have penned chapter after chapter of significant history on The Peak. Our upcoming project is poised to become another timeless chapter in The Peak’s illustrious history,” says Ricky Wong. &nbsp;</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">A Privileged Serenity</h3>



<p>For over a century, The Peak has been Hong Kong’s ultimate address, a sanctuary of serenity high above the bustling city. Its unique microclimate offers a refreshing escape, particularly during the summer months. From its origins as a retreat for colonial elites, the Peak’s history is interwoven with prominent families like the Crawfords, co-founders of Lane Crawford, who left an indelible mark on the area. In 1885, the Crawford family built Craigieburn, their grand residence. Its historical roots have remained firmly planted on Plantation Road. This prestigious address, Plantation Road, once known as Bank Street, holds a rich legacy.</p>



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<p>From the grand residences of HSBC executives to the vibrant social scene of The Peak Club, this coveted locale has long been synonymous with exclusivity and refined living. Today, that legacy continues at Plantation Road, a contemporary tribute to The Peak’s enduring allure. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Crafting Timeless Masterpieces on the Peak</h3>



<p>Wharf and Wheelock are prominent developers with a significant stake in residential land on The Peak in Hong Kong. “Inspired by global cultural influences and intricate craftsmanship, we sculpt the world’s most sought-after lifestyle on the internationally renowned hilltop,” says Ricky Wong, Vice Chairman and Managing Director of Wheelock Properties Limited.&nbsp;</p>



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<p>A notable example is Strawberry Hill, situated on Plunkett’s Road. This large-scale luxury residential project on the hilltop was developed in two phases in the 1970s. It features as the first large-scale club in a hilltop residential area. Even today, the project remains a rare and exclusive development, symbolizing sophistication and luxury.</p>


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/1-Plantation-Road-Edited-Selects-20_edit-1024x931.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-84882" width="768" height="698" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/1-Plantation-Road-Edited-Selects-20_edit-1024x931.jpg 1024w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/1-Plantation-Road-Edited-Selects-20_edit-308x280.jpg 308w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/1-Plantation-Road-Edited-Selects-20_edit-768x699.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/1-Plantation-Road-Edited-Selects-20_edit-1536x1397.jpg 1536w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/1-Plantation-Road-Edited-Selects-20_edit-2048x1863.jpg 2048w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/1-Plantation-Road-Edited-Selects-20_edit-200x182.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/1-Plantation-Road-Edited-Selects-20_edit-800x728.jpg 800w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /></figure></div>


<p>Mount Nicholson, 11 Plantation Road, 77/79 Peak Road, Gough Hill Residence and Chelsea Court at 63 Mount Galley Road are other prestigious examples among the Peak Collection.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">A Symphony of Design and Luxurious Living</h3>



<p>“Living on the top is a status symbol,” says Wong.&nbsp;</p>



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<p>The upcoming project of Peak Collection, 1 Plantation Road consists of 20 low-density detached houses, with areas ranging from 4,600 to 7,500 square feet. Each house owns its private garage, offering a high degree of privacy. Five houses will be launched in the first phase. No similar type of new residential property will be found on The Peak in the next 24 months.&nbsp;</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">The charm of Southern France</h3>



<p>The development exudes a distinct South of France theme, which stands proudly on the top of the mountain, affording magnificent views of the sea to the south and conveying a Mediterranean ambience.</p>



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<p>&nbsp;Each space of the project has different elements, mirroring the charm of Southern France. Four uniquely themed gardens have been meticulously designed, each tailored to complement the individuality of the independent houses within the development. &nbsp; &nbsp;</p>



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<p>Embracing sustainability and environmental considerations were part of the project. For instance, the Peak Collection Gallery, Peak Salon incorporates the innovative reuse of leftover materials and the strategic sourcing of local materials. Leftover wall coverings and curtains were used to perfectly combine the painting style of South French artist Jean Cocteau to craft the art work. Leftover stones from the show flat helped to create artistic furnishings.&nbsp;</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Nature inspired</h3>



<p>“Nature inspired our design language of organic forms crafted in materials with a close relationship to the earth, contrasted with clean lines and a polished sense of materiality. In curating the art program, we approached art as a way of strengthening this connection, evoking nature,” says Alexandra Champalimaud, a famous designer from New York who is a long term partner for Peak Collection residences of Wheelock.</p>



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<p>The grand heritage and natural beauty of this iconic neighbourhood are effortlessly integrated into the elegant design and architecture.&nbsp;</p>



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<p>“This project holds a special combination of ease and refinement. Like the Côte d&#8217;Azur, it is about nature undisrupted yet elevated by a human expression of art and beauty. The homes combine chic elegance with a quiet sense of intimacy, revealing subtle surprises in the details,” adds Champalimaud. &nbsp;</p>


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Sketch_01-1024x565.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-84884" width="768" height="424" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Sketch_01-1024x565.jpg 1024w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Sketch_01-508x280.jpg 508w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Sketch_01-768x424.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Sketch_01-1536x847.jpg 1536w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Sketch_01-2048x1130.jpg 2048w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Sketch_01-200x110.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Sketch_01-800x441.jpg 800w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /></figure></div>


<p class="has-text-align-center">“<em>Our design exudes a level of luxury that reflects how we live today but will also endure the test of time.</em>”<br>&#8211; Alexandra Champalimaud | <em>Interior Designer</em></p>



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<p class="has-text-align-center">For more details, click <strong><a href="https://www.wheelockpropertieshk.com/en-us/properties/detail/1">here</a>.</strong></p>


[Feature Story by Wheelock] The Peak Home to the Elite and their stories 


<p>Ah, Christmas! The time of year when we trade our work clothes for cosy pyjamas, throw on a ridiculous holiday sweater, and crank up the Mariah Carey playlist to levels that could wake (and annoy) the neighbours. For many, it’s a glorious mélange of twinkling lights, sugar cookies and warm memories – a magical season steeped in traditions both old and new. But what does this holiday really mean in our rapidly changing world, where technology and geographical differences challenge the way we celebrate?</p>



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<p>Gone are the days when everyone could gather in a single living room stuffing down a turkey feast while wearing matching party hats and exchanging clashing opinions about what constitutes the best holiday movie. Nowadays, our beloved family members might be convening via Zoom from halfway around the globe, often with the unfortunate candle-scented ‘Home for the Holidays’ backdrop on their screen. Yes, we live in modernity, but that doesn’t mean that the heartwarming spirit of Christmas is lost; it just takes on different shades.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Mixed Bag of Merry</h3>



<p>Once upon a time, long before smartphones could remind you where to buy gifts (not that we’re complaining), families would unite to craft salt-dough ornaments while engaging in spirited debates about whether Die Hard qualifies as a Christmas film. Fast forward to now: with a few swifts taps, families separated by thousands of miles can video call from the comfort of their couches and witness toddlers gleefully tearing through wrapping paper. It’s technology’s silver lining!</p>


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/ILLUSTRATION-1-1024x702.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-84826" width="768" height="527" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/ILLUSTRATION-1-1024x702.jpg 1024w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/ILLUSTRATION-1-408x280.jpg 408w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/ILLUSTRATION-1-768x527.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/ILLUSTRATION-1-1536x1053.jpg 1536w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/ILLUSTRATION-1-200x137.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/ILLUSTRATION-1-800x549.jpg 800w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/ILLUSTRATION-1.jpg 1985w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /></figure></div>


<p>Sadly, some irreplaceable traditions, like the smell of freshly baked gingerbread men wafting through the house, or singing carols in harmony (or disharmony, depending on the vocal talents involved), or the many Christmas specials lined up by TVB and ATV, have dissolved into fleeting memories overshadowed by the glow of a smartphone screen. How about sitting down together to scour those dusty photo albums? Now they’re replaced by scrolling through a digital gallery while occasionally muttering, “Well, at least we’re all present… virtually.”</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">A Bit Pricy for the Inner Child</h3>



<p>On the flip side, for those navigating the holiday season alone, Christmas can morph into a DIY project for wellness. Some folks cope with the void by bringing a little of their inner child to the forefront, definitely under the influence of annual holiday sentimentality.</p>



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<p>Window shopping shifts seamlessly from indulgence to therapy. It’s not unusual to find adults buying the toys they once longed for, tucking little treasures away for moments when they need a quick dose of joy. The Harry Potter wand, the Pokémon collectibles that shimmer suggestively of lost innocence – there’s a certain charm to buying your inner child a present. Spoiler alert: it’s less about nostalgia and more about embracing the spirit of playfulness that we sometimes bury under the weight of adult responsibility.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">From Our Hearts to the World</h3>



<p>What’s remarkable is how the holiday is often less about what we take and more about what we give. We can choose to celebrate Christmas by volunteering at an orphanage or donating to an NGO, wrapping gifts not only in recycled paper but also in love and care. The sheer delight in the eyes of a child receiving their first well-deserved toy can illuminate a path toward a purpose-driven holiday.</p>


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/ILLUSTRATION-2-1024x699.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-84827" width="768" height="524" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/ILLUSTRATION-2-1024x699.jpg 1024w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/ILLUSTRATION-2-410x280.jpg 410w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/ILLUSTRATION-2-768x524.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/ILLUSTRATION-2-1536x1048.jpg 1536w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/ILLUSTRATION-2-200x136.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/ILLUSTRATION-2-800x546.jpg 800w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/ILLUSTRATION-2.jpg 2024w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /></figure></div>


<p>In these moments, generosity can take root, reminding us that our humanity flourishes when we extend kindness to those who may not have a jolly elf as their Santa. In channelling the warmth of helping others, we create Christmas memories that bond us across generations.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Family Time Highs and Woes</h3>



<p>For the lucky ones, celebrating Christmas with family feels like a favourite movie scene – except when sibling squabbles turn into competitive charades, cancelling out any semblance of peace on Earth. Bragging rights are always the top prize, of course. However, in the end, these chaotic moments become the core memories that stick with us, the tales of family togetherness that age like fine wine.</p>



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<p>As we gather around the dinner table, raising our glasses in muzzled camaraderie and laughter, we honour all those who shaped our traditions, including those who’ve joined the choir invisible – forever held in our hearts. It’s important to acknowledge those who might not be with us this season. Every ornament hung on the tree may carry a memory of a loved one who has passed, a friend who has drifted out of touch, or even a family member swallowed up by an unforgiving work schedule. Absence can echo loudly in our celebrations, but in a way it binds us closer to the true spirit of the season.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Embracing The Here and Now</h3>



<p>If there’s one thing we’ve all learned from the whirlwind of modern existence, it’s that time, like an errant Christmas bauble, can sometimes feel like it’s rolling down the street instead of hanging from the tree. Between busy schedules and invasive technology vying for our attention, the importance of living in the moment with the younger family members cannot be overstated. These fleeting moments become the core memories that shape who they become – and our own legacy.</p>


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/ILLUSTRATION-4-1024x703.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-84829" width="768" height="527" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/ILLUSTRATION-4-1024x703.jpg 1024w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/ILLUSTRATION-4-408x280.jpg 408w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/ILLUSTRATION-4-768x527.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/ILLUSTRATION-4-1536x1054.jpg 1536w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/ILLUSTRATION-4-2048x1406.jpg 2048w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/ILLUSTRATION-4-200x137.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/ILLUSTRATION-4-800x549.jpg 800w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /></figure></div>


<p>So how do we revitalise those traditions while infusing a bit of contemporary flair? First, gather the kiddos and have a holiday film festival – who doesn’t love a good binge-watch of Home Alone 1 and 2 (3 can be filed away under ‘unmentionable’)? This exercise not only preserves the cinematic magic of our youth, but also creates a space for laughter, togetherness and the occasional cheeky commentary on Kevin McCallister’s antics.</p>



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<p>And for Christians, let’s not forget the centrepiece of Christmas – celebrating the birth of Jesus. Walk the line between reverence and revelry by incorporating traditions that emphasise gratitude and appreciation for our loved ones. Why not recreate the legend of the Three Wise Men with your own family members pretending to be the benevolent gift bearers? Present your quirky gifts with loving zeal, as you all share in a feast of appreciation (and a ridiculous amount of food).</p>


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/ILLUSTRATION-3-660x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-84828" width="330" height="512" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/ILLUSTRATION-3-660x1024.jpg 660w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/ILLUSTRATION-3-180x280.jpg 180w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/ILLUSTRATION-3-768x1192.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/ILLUSTRATION-3-990x1536.jpg 990w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/ILLUSTRATION-3-200x310.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/ILLUSTRATION-3-800x1242.jpg 800w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/ILLUSTRATION-3.jpg 1114w" sizes="(max-width: 330px) 100vw, 330px" /></figure></div>


<p>Close to home, Filipino Christmas traditions are a delightful blend of joy, family, and a dash of humor, making it one of the most special celebrations in the world. It all kicks off in September, when the “-ber” months begin. Yes, you heard that right—September! While the rest of the world is still savoring their summer barbecues, Filipinos are already decking the halls and blasting Christmas carols. It’s the longest Christmas season ever, and everyone jokes that by the time December rolls around, you might as well be planning your New Year’s resolutions!.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Wrapped with a Bow</h3>



<p>So whatever way you choose to celebrate – whether with family across the globe, alone basking in a sea of soft toys and takeout, or giving back with your heart – remember that Christmas is an occasion to cherish those moments of connection and gratitude.</p>



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<p>The holiday is ultimately about creating a vibrant legacy through the acts of kindness and love we share with those who matter most. As we gather around our trees, both real and virtual, let’s make memories that will warm our hearts for a lifetime to come. After all, the best way to cherish this season is to live in the moment, letting the love flow – one ornament, one gift, and one laugh at a time.</p>



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<p>Merry Christmas, one and all!</p>


Jingle All The Way: Christmas presents many faces in the modern world, but its true spirit can still be unwrapped


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<p class="has-text-align-center"><em><em>Martin Ku, Regional Director, Asia Pacific, Devialet, reveals how his company has created one of the best sound quality products in the market</em></em></p>



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<p>Devialet likes to highlight that its range of products produce a unique signature sound. Their goal is to recreate for their listeners the same raw emotion many often experience when listening to a live musical performance.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Blown away by sound quality</h3>



<p>It is these lofty ambitions and the excellence of their sound products which attracted Martin Ku, their Regional Director, Asia Pacific, to the company in the first place. He readily admits, however, that when he first got a call in 2018 from a head-hunter for role with Devialet, he initially turned it down, partly because he had never heard of the brand.&nbsp;</p>



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<p>It was only when the head-hunter contacted him again and put a little bit more context around it that he started to investigate a bit further. He was impressed with the wide range of “very smart people” who had invested in the company – the likes of Bernard Arnault, Jay-Z, Foxconn, and Naver – and he wanted to understand why.&nbsp;</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">The “wow” moment</h3>



<p>The company’s “beautiful” speaker called the Phantom was the main product. Ku was intrigued, he had never heard of it.</p>



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<p>He was based in the mainland at the time, and decided to call his brother, who was a professional jazz musician in Shanghai. Now speaking at the contemporary lifestyle store, Andante, founded by Tony Luk in 2004 and located in the Ruttonjee Centre in Hong Kong, he fondly recalls the lightbulb moment, saying: “I brought him to one of the stores in Shanghai to listen and we put some songs onto the speaker, just Bluetooth. And he&#8217;s looking at me with his eyes wide open and it is like, ‘wow, what is that?’”</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/466505406_1048068907316567_7468365510997293380_n-1024x576.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-84224" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/466505406_1048068907316567_7468365510997293380_n-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/466505406_1048068907316567_7468365510997293380_n-498x280.jpg 498w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/466505406_1048068907316567_7468365510997293380_n-768x432.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/466505406_1048068907316567_7468365510997293380_n-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/466505406_1048068907316567_7468365510997293380_n-200x112.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/466505406_1048068907316567_7468365510997293380_n-800x450.jpg 800w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/466505406_1048068907316567_7468365510997293380_n.jpg 1800w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<p>He knew this was an amazing product that many people still had yet to know about and he wanted to be part of the team spreading the message. Following a round of interviews, he then quickly joined the company. His outstanding background in fashion and technology was considered a perfect fit, reflecting the Devialet brand identity, which is a merger of design and technology.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Groundbreaking technology</h3>



<p>Ku reveals why ADH® technology &#8211; which was introduced in 2010 when Devialet brought out the D-Premier &#8211; was so groundbreaking for an amplifier.</p>



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<p>The technology originated from a very simple idea from the founder of Devialet. “Our founder at the time was thinking about how do I take the quality of an analog speaker and put it into the size and user friendliness of a digital speaker. It is really a simple idea, but incredibly difficult to do,” says Ku.</p>



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<p>The landscape at the time had two different versions of audio tech amplification. Analog audio was very high quality sound replication coming from very large speakers, with very large wires. “You have amplifiers, you have streamers, you have digital analog converters, a lot of equipment for very involved users,” says Ku.</p>



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<p>Then there was the range of amplification based on digital technology. These were the everyday at-home usage type of speakers which were small, cheaper. For these devices the quality of the sound was compressed.</p>



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<p>“So just like a photograph or a video, if you want to look at something on a small device, then you don&#8217;t need it to have so much detail, because in a small device, a small picture, that&#8217;s all you can see,” explains Ku. “But if you were to blow that thing up into a large photograph, you would see very blurry parts of all those different pixels.”</p>



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<p>Ku says it&#8217;s exactly the same on a digital product, specifically a digital speaker. “When you want to hear the details of that sound, they&#8217;re all gone, because the sound files all have to get compressed down in order to be able to play on such a small speaker and at such low power,” he reveals.</p>



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<p>The revolutionary aspect of ADH® technology was to use an analog amplifier to replicate the sound quality coming from whatever source someone is playing on, and then to use a digital amplifier to push the power.&nbsp;</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Impressive range of functionalities</h3>



<p>The Premiere also comes with a range of audio functionalities. “You have the amplifier, you have a streamer, you have a digital analog converter, you have a preamp, and we took all of these things and combined them into one very sleek and compact design,” says Ku, emphasising how novel this was at the time.</p>



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<p>“That one product that catapulted Devialet into the hi-fi industry overnight,” he says of this impressive achievement.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Devialet Astra reaches notch higher</h3>



<p>In terms of quality and sound performance the Devialet Astra has gone to the next level, according to Ku.&nbsp;</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/devialet_-1024x576.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-84225" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/devialet_-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/devialet_-498x280.jpg 498w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/devialet_-768x432.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/devialet_-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/devialet_-200x113.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/devialet_-800x450.jpg 800w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/devialet_.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<p>“Everything that we are trying to do is to perfect that sound quality, and try to use that power of sound to drive some kind of emotion out of our listeners. That&#8217;s the main goal,” he says, adding that the new product manages to achieve this aspiration through the enhanced use of ADH technology.</p>



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<p>Ku reveals that the quality of sound emitted is very clear throughout the different range of sound frequencies, with notable improvements on the higher frequencies. The product is hi-res certified.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Customize with different speakers</h3>



<p>The Speaker Active Matching (SAM) is the fundamental technology within the Devialet Astra.</p>



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<p>“And the really cool thing about this technology is that we can customize the signal processing of our Devialet Astra amplifier to match the performance of different speakers,” says Ku.</p>



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<p>This is because the company holds a library of over a thousand different speaker models that they have done precision measurements of. They know how these speakers perform and can adapt the signal production from their amplifier to match the speaker. This information store is critical in that it allows the technology to push the speaker to perform at its highest extent under safe conditions, that is without overdoing it. Furthermore, Devialet is continuously updating their library to incorporate new speaker systems. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Fantastic user experience</h3>



<p>Aside from the technology and the sound quality, another pillar of the new product which is the enhanced user experience.</p>



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<p>Their new software platform brings Devialet Astra onto the same platform as all their other speakers. “Everything&#8217;s on the same application and that will allow us to also keep these products on the same platform in the years to come,” reveals Ku.</p>



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<p>“It has the latest Wi-Fi and Bluetooth technology so that you have greater stability, but also a little bit more versatility in what you can do with the products,” he says. &nbsp;</p>



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<p>The connectivity aspect means the users can now listen to the product in the way they want to listen to it – whether it’s through different streaming platforms or through USB, a CD player, or a record player. “Airplay two, Google Cast, Spotify, Connect, Tidal, UPnP &#8211; all these capabilities and connectivity have been added into the product,” says Ku.</p>



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<p>He reveals another significant improvement is that all the customization is done within your app on your phone. This includes everything involving the setup and also the configuration – resulting in a much simpler and user-friendly process.&nbsp;</p>



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<p>“It&#8217;s very, very intuitive. It&#8217;s very simple, which for the people who knew the previous products, sometimes it wasn&#8217;t so. It was a bit more technical, but more complicated,” says Ku.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Unfiltered sound</h3>



<p>Over 200 patents were needed to build a system whose aim is to authentically recreate the incredible sounds that artists are making. Experiencing the emotion someone might get from a live performance in an opera House or in a concert hall is the ultimate goal.&nbsp;</p>



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<p>“Our job is to take that sound, what the artist is trying to create, and recreate that in a completely unfiltered way. And our technologies have been able to do this in a very unique way, because we are able to create in very small packages, we&#8217;re able to create sounds across the spectrum of sound frequencies that are even beyond the scope of hearing,” says Ku.</p>



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<p>The product comes in two different versions. The standard version is the bronze version. Their partnership with the Opéra de Paris has spawned another version in which the gold leaf logo is applied by the same ateliers who apply the gold leaf within the walls of the opera house. No two products are the same because they are all hand applied.</p>



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<p>“I think it&#8217;s a really meaningful partnership, but also a good representation of this marriage between art, design and technology coming together and building this product,” says Ku.</p>


[Material provided by Devialet] Purveyors of Superb Sound Products


<p>Designer eyes are focused on the United Arab Emirates’ standout skyline this month as Dubai Design Week 2024 salutes 10 transformative years of design innovation and cultural influence in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region. This landmark edition of the major Middle East design event unfolds from 5 to 10 November in the heart of Dubai Design District (d3) under the patronage of Her Highness Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of the Dubai Culture &amp; Arts Authority.</p>



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<p>Dubai Design Week has evolved over the past decade into a dynamic platform examining the intersection of creativity, commerce and culture within the rapidly growing design industry of the GCC alliance – Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the UAE – which is valued today at US$26 billion. Reflecting Dubai’s unique position as a global design hub, it successfully marries local craftsmanship with international innovation.</p>


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/‘Desert-Cast-Kuwait-2018_p-1024x672.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-84136" width="768" height="504" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/‘Desert-Cast-Kuwait-2018_p-1024x672.jpg 1024w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/‘Desert-Cast-Kuwait-2018_p-427x280.jpg 427w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/‘Desert-Cast-Kuwait-2018_p-768x504.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/‘Desert-Cast-Kuwait-2018_p-1536x1008.jpg 1536w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/‘Desert-Cast-Kuwait-2018_p-2048x1343.jpg 2048w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/‘Desert-Cast-Kuwait-2018_p-200x131.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/‘Desert-Cast-Kuwait-2018_p-800x525.jpg 800w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">&#8216;Desert Cast’, Kuwait, 2018</figcaption></figure></div>


<p>Attracting 500 designers, brands and creative leaders from more than 40 countries, this year’s festival promises to be an exhilarating showcase of contemporary thinking in design. Leveraging its 10 years of experience, it presents a series of installations, exhibitions and experiential happenings that highlight the evolution of design in the region.</p>



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<p>“As we celebrate our 10th edition, we look forward to bringing together designers from around the globe to exchange ideas and demonstrate the positive impact that can be fostered through design,” says Natasha Carella, Director for Dubai Design Week. “Responding to the complexities of a modern world, sustainable practices and the nuances of vernacular architecture across the region and wider global south take centre stage this year, with thought-provoking programming that explores creativity in all its forms and how design can better our common future.”</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Downtown Vibes</h3>



<p>One of the flagship events is Downtown Design, which returns to d3’s Waterfront Terrace from 6-9 November. As the leading contemporary design fair in the Middle East, it features the latest collections, innovative products and emerging design solutions. Attendees can expect creative pop-ups, engaging installations and networking events alongside a lineup of talks, keynotes and master classes at The Forum. For anyone passionate about interior design, furniture and home accessories, Downtown Design is a must-see.</p>


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/1abc-1024x576.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-84144" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/1abc-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/1abc-498x280.jpg 498w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/1abc-768x432.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/1abc-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/1abc-200x113.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/1abc-800x450.jpg 800w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/1abc.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Left: Serafini Right: Audo &#8211; The Bowery Company</figcaption></figure></div>


<p>D3 is part of Dubai business-district developer TECOM Group, whose Senior Vice-President Khadija Al Bastaki underlines the importance of the annual design fest to Dubai and the wider Emirates. “The creative industries are as much fuel to the economic engine as they are architects of identity and culture,” she says.</p>



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<p>“Dubai’s focus on nurturing creative communities with dedicated platforms has contributed to a rich, multicultural and native design narrative that represents the emirate’s ambitions, vision and ethos. Dubai Design Week has been instrumental in weaving that narrative over the past decade, providing a powerful platform that promotes talent from d3, the UAE and beyond, influencing the global design dialogue across subjects like diversity, sustainability and belonging.”</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Original Editions</h3>



<p>In a watershed moment for regional art and design, this year’s event introduces Editions, the region’s first fair dedicated to limited-edition art and design. Running concurrently with Downtown Design, it will host more than 50 galleries, design studios and collectives, offering unique works of contemporary design, photography, ceramics and more. By catering to a diverse audience and price range, Editions invites more art enthusiasts to discover and collect original pieces.</p>



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<p>Al Bastaki [or Carella?] adds: “We look forward to welcoming design stakeholders to celebrate the brilliant creations and ingenuity evident across this year’s programme – including the debut of Editions in strategic partnership with d3 – shaping the future and resilience of Dubai’s creative economy.”</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Table Talk</h3>



<p>Dubai Design Week’s annual Urban Commissions competition, which encourages designers to create innovative community-oriented furniture and installations, took ‘Tawila’ (table in Arabic) as its theme this year. Submissions were evaluated based on their potential impact and creativity by a jury of international design experts – including influential figures such as urbanist Alamira Reem Al Hashimi, landscape architect Robert Shakespeare, and design consultant Cyril Zammit.</p>


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<figure class="aligncenter size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/de-Gournay_NYC_Namban-3_Photography-by-Michael-Clifford_DTD2024-1024x768.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-84139" width="768" height="576" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/de-Gournay_NYC_Namban-3_Photography-by-Michael-Clifford_DTD2024-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/de-Gournay_NYC_Namban-3_Photography-by-Michael-Clifford_DTD2024-373x280.jpg 373w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/de-Gournay_NYC_Namban-3_Photography-by-Michael-Clifford_DTD2024-768x576.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/de-Gournay_NYC_Namban-3_Photography-by-Michael-Clifford_DTD2024-1536x1152.jpg 1536w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/de-Gournay_NYC_Namban-3_Photography-by-Michael-Clifford_DTD2024-2048x1536.jpg 2048w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/de-Gournay_NYC_Namban-3_Photography-by-Michael-Clifford_DTD2024-200x150.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/de-Gournay_NYC_Namban-3_Photography-by-Michael-Clifford_DTD2024-800x600.jpg 800w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Namban &#8211; de Gournay</figcaption></figure></div>


<p>The winning design was TukTukDum, a unique table by an Oman-based studio Altqadum designed to stimulate interaction and inspired by the music culture of the Gulf states. Celebrating traditional communal gatherings, it transforms the humble table into a dynamic space of exchange and collaboration, inviting users to participate in the creative process.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Folk Heroes</h3>



<p>A Dubai Designer Week stalwart, the Abwab programme – named for the Arabic word for doors – continues its commitment to support designers from the Southwest Asian and North African (Swana) region by commissioning installations that engage with contemporary issues. Since its establishment in 2015, Abwab has helped more than 180 designers explore themes like regional identity and vernacular architecture.</p>



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<p>The latter comes to the fore this year as practitioners interpret how community-centric architectural methods using local materials and techniques can suit new environments. Expect a breathtaking array of over 30 installations, including a pavilion made from pre-fabricated earth blocks by Dubai-based studio Bone, and a traditional Japanese teahouse of 3D-printed sawdust constructed by Tokyo-headquartered Mitsubishi Jisho Design.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Inspiration Participation</h3>



<p>Dubai Design Week engages audiences beyond mere observation by hosting workshops designed to inspire creativity and elevate skill sets across multiple disciplines. These sessions, led by experts from educational institutions, design collectives and cultural organisations, cater to aspiring creators of all ages and expertise levels.</p>



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<p>“With the emirate being a Unesco City of Design, Dubai Culture is dedicated to providing an educational ecosystem that cultivates fresh ideas and the many individuals driving them forward,” says Saeed Mubarak bin Kharbash, CEO of the authority’s Arts &amp; Literature Sector.</p>


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<figure class="aligncenter size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Cabbage-Rose-by-Linda-Nieuwstad-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-84138" width="768" height="512" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Cabbage-Rose-by-Linda-Nieuwstad-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Cabbage-Rose-by-Linda-Nieuwstad-420x280.jpg 420w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Cabbage-Rose-by-Linda-Nieuwstad-768x512.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Cabbage-Rose-by-Linda-Nieuwstad-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Cabbage-Rose-by-Linda-Nieuwstad-2048x1365.jpg 2048w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Cabbage-Rose-by-Linda-Nieuwstad-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Cabbage-Rose-by-Linda-Nieuwstad-800x533.jpg 800w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Cabbage Rose by Linda Nieuwstad</figcaption></figure></div>


<p>Additionally, the Dubai Design Week Marketplace, occurring on the weekend of 9-10 November, curates an outdoor retail experience melding local artisans, homegrown businesses and sustainably sourced products. This thriving enterprise embodies the spirit of collaboration and creativity that defines Dubai’s design ethos.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Beyond Aesthetics: Cultural Reflections</h3>



<p>At its core, Dubai Design Week serves as a mirror to the UAE’s evolving identity over the past decade. The festival has matured from a local initiative into a significant international design event, driven by its commitment to innovation, community engagement and cultural exchange. In its 10th year, it takes a moment to reflect on what design has meant for the region. As the design landscape continues to evolve, its influence is a testament to the power of creativity in shaping communities.</p>



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<p>“Our responsibility towards the cultural and creative industries in the emirate helps us steer the growth of the creative economy and cement Dubai’s position as a global centre for culture, an incubator for creativity and a thriving hub for talent,” says Kharbash.</p>



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<p>With esteemed global partners, curated exhibitions from cultural institutions, and an unwavering commitment to local talent, the event encapsulates the rich tapestry of Dubai’s design narrative. From installations invoking ancient technologies to explorations of modern sustainability, Dubai Design Week 2024 will reinforce the notion that design is not just about aesthetics – it is a powerful tool for social change, community building and cultural understanding.</p>



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<p>As Dubai Design Week prepares to take the stage for its milestone edition, it promises to deliver an inspiring array of experiences that celebrate a decade of creative growth and industry impact. With an anticipated audience of design enthusiasts, industry professionals and curious onlookers, the festival is primed to further solidify Dubai’s status as a leading global design capital.</p>


Gulf Flair: In its 10th and finest expression, Dubai Design Week showcases the power of creativity in shaping communities


<p class="has-text-align-center"><em>Superbly designed flat in desirable location</em></p>



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<div class="wp-block-media-text alignwide is-stacked-on-mobile"><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="809" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/GH-Layout-1024x809.png" alt="" class="wp-image-84156 size-full" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/GH-Layout-1024x809.png 1024w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/GH-Layout-354x280.png 354w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/GH-Layout-768x607.png 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/GH-Layout-1536x1214.png 1536w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/GH-Layout-2048x1618.png 2048w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/GH-Layout-200x158.png 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/GH-Layout-800x632.png 800w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure><div class="wp-block-media-text__content">
<p><strong>128 WATERLOO</strong> is located in one of Hong Kong’s most elite neighbourhoods. Like all the outstanding units in this magnificent complex, <strong>Apartment 20G and H</strong> offers extraordinary attention to detail and superb interior craftsmanship, the result of meticulous planning and architectural vision of the highest order. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;</p>
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<p>The 4-bedroom apartment has been designed with the concept of spaciousness at a premium. For instance, the original bedroom 1 of the H unit has been combined with the living room to increase the living space, creating a cozy private area beside the window. The ceiling features a unique design integrated with recessed lighting, highlighting the unit&#8217;s high ceiling and enhancing the overall sense of space.&nbsp;</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/IMG_7709-1-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-84160" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/IMG_7709-1-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/IMG_7709-1-420x280.jpg 420w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/IMG_7709-1-768x512.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/IMG_7709-1-1536x1025.jpg 1536w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/IMG_7709-1-2048x1366.jpg 2048w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/IMG_7709-1-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/IMG_7709-1-800x534.jpg 800w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<p>Meanwhile, in the kitchen, the original worker&#8217;s room has been removed to enhance the kitchen&#8217;s practicality and spatial feel. The kitchen door and cabinets have been replaced with transparent glass to create a more open atmosphere. The cabinetry has been upgraded to prestigious Poggenpohl European brand cabinets, and the kitchen comes equipped with Miele dishwasher, Sub-Zero double-door refrigerator, wine cooler, oven, and an independent air conditioning system.&nbsp;</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/IMG_7523-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-84163" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/IMG_7523-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/IMG_7523-420x280.jpg 420w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/IMG_7523-768x512.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/IMG_7523-1536x1025.jpg 1536w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/IMG_7523-2048x1366.jpg 2048w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/IMG_7523-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/IMG_7523-800x534.jpg 800w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<p>The master bedroom features semi-transparent tempered glass sliding doors for increased natural light and transparency. The design incorporates separate wet and dry areas, improving space allocation and enhancing family living functionality. The shower area is equipped with a steam machine for relaxation, and features a heated towel rack and underfloor heating system.&nbsp;</p>



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<p>The bedrooms 2 and the bedroom 3 in the H unit have been combined. The attached bathroom has two doors to enhance convenience.&nbsp;</p>


[Material provided by Great Prosper] 128 Waterloo – Exclusive High-end Unit


<p>Wigs have been an integral part of Chinese culture for centuries, dating back to the Qing dynasty. Initially, they were worn by royalty and nobility as a symbol of status and power. Historical Chinese dramas often show men with manes and a topknot (jian) while women with have  No longer restricted to theatrical performances or people coping with hair loss, wigs have found their way into the mainstream. They have become top-notch fashion accessories for individuals seeking to experiment with their appearance. The fashion-forward are embracing them to transform their look with minimum effort and stand out in the crowd. </p>



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<p>Once considered niche products, bespoke wigs and hair extensions have become increasingly popular due to their versatility and personalised touch. Whether for medical reasons, special occasions or as fashion statements, these tailored hair solutions cater to diverse needs, offering individuals a unique way to express themselves, boost confidence and make a statement. Wigs made of human hair naturally look and feel good, while synthetic wigs are more affordable and low maintenance, perfect for those seeking a temporary solution.</p>



<div class="wp-block-media-text alignwide is-stacked-on-mobile"><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="768" height="1024" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Bespoke_Nov2024_01-768x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-84113 size-full" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Bespoke_Nov2024_01-768x1024.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Bespoke_Nov2024_01-210x280.jpg 210w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Bespoke_Nov2024_01-200x267.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Bespoke_Nov2024_01-800x1067.jpg 800w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Bespoke_Nov2024_01.jpg 1134w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /></figure><div class="wp-block-media-text__content">
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<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="682" height="1024" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Bespoke_Nov2024_Image06-682x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-84120" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Bespoke_Nov2024_Image06-682x1024.jpg 682w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Bespoke_Nov2024_Image06-187x280.jpg 187w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Bespoke_Nov2024_Image06-768x1152.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Bespoke_Nov2024_Image06-200x300.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Bespoke_Nov2024_Image06-800x1200.jpg 800w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Bespoke_Nov2024_Image06.jpg 853w" sizes="(max-width: 682px) 100vw, 682px" /></figure>
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<p>Wigs and extensions are used as a tool for self-expression and transformation. Fashionistas and celebrities often wear wigs to make bold statements, experiment with new looks, or enhance their style. Wigs are more popular than one might imagine, 70% of Hong Kong’s fashion designers incorporate wigs into their runway shows while 50% of celebrities wear wigs for red-carpet events. The increasing demand for wigs and extensions has led to a surge in specialised salons and shops across Hong Kong.&nbsp; Here, we curate a list of local names that offer quality hairpieces customised to clients’ needs.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Hair Easy</h3>



<p>Established by hair specialist Pat Ma in 2002, Hair Easy has always focused on the individual needs of clients. It provides a one-on-one service at its store located in the bustling shopping district of Mong Kok. Ma’s knowledge of the wig and hair industry has strong foundations, stretching back 20 years from when she first trained as a hairstylist. She then spent two years acquainting herself with the wig production process at a factory in China.</p>



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<p>Together with two professional stylists, Ma personally creates customised wigs and hair pieces designed to help clients look and feel good. Their wigs are exclusively made from 100% human hair, enabling easy movement and styling flexibility. Hand-tied wigs are the most naturalistic and comfortable, as each strand is meticulously tied to create the appearance of natural hair growth.<em> haireasy.com</em></p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Hair Blooms Wigs</h3>



<p>Chris Ho, the founder of Hair Blooms Wigs, works as a professional hairdresser from a studio in Causeway Bay. Having more than 10 years of experience in hairstyle design, she deeply understands the importance of a suitable hairstyle for everyone. As a wig-maker, Ho has worked to support clients who have lost hair because of cancer treatment and other medical conditions as well as burns and stress. </p>



<div class="wp-block-media-text alignwide is-stacked-on-mobile"><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="683" height="1024" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Bespoke_Nov2024_08-683x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-84114 size-full" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Bespoke_Nov2024_08-683x1024.jpg 683w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Bespoke_Nov2024_08-187x280.jpg 187w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Bespoke_Nov2024_08-768x1152.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Bespoke_Nov2024_08-1024x1536.jpg 1024w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Bespoke_Nov2024_08-1366x2048.jpg 1366w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Bespoke_Nov2024_08-200x300.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Bespoke_Nov2024_08-800x1200.jpg 800w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Bespoke_Nov2024_08-scaled.jpg 1707w" sizes="(max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px" /></figure><div class="wp-block-media-text__content">
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<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="683" height="1024" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Bespoke_Nov2024_09-683x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-84115" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Bespoke_Nov2024_09-683x1024.jpg 683w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Bespoke_Nov2024_09-187x280.jpg 187w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Bespoke_Nov2024_09-768x1152.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Bespoke_Nov2024_09-1024x1536.jpg 1024w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Bespoke_Nov2024_09-1366x2048.jpg 1366w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Bespoke_Nov2024_09-200x300.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Bespoke_Nov2024_09-800x1200.jpg 800w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Bespoke_Nov2024_09-scaled.jpg 1707w" sizes="(max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px" /></figure>
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<p>Hair Blooms Wigs offers various types of customised hair extensions. Clip-ins are easy to apply and remove, and thus ideal for temporary use. Their tape-in extensions can last up to eight weeks, providing a seamless blend with natural hair. For clients seeking a permanent solution to hair loss, durable and long-lasting micro-link extensions may be the answer. <em>hairbloomswigs.com</em></p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Pink Age</h3>



<p>A wig shop boasting a long list of satisfied customers who praise its excellent service, Pink Age offers a vast array of fashion wigs, each catering to diverse preferences and needs. Its hair experts help customers select the best wig or extensions for overall appearance and comfort.  Alignment with individual style goals and lifestyle is essential. A well-chosen wig not only enhances one’s features but also boosts confidence, allowing the wearer to embrace various styles without limitation.</p>



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<p>Understanding the different types of wigs available is essential to making an informed decision. The Causeway Bay store’s synthetic wigs offer affordability and come in pre-styled designs, making them convenient for daily wear. Their lace front wigs have a sheer lace panel along the front hairline for a natural look that allows off-the-face styling. Full lace wigs, meanwhile, feature a lace cap that covers the entire head, enabling limitless styling possibilities and a natural-looking parting. <em>pinkage.hk</em></p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Lily Wigs</h3>



<p>Established in 1978, Lily Wigs is believed to be the first high-end customised hair company in the city. Servicing the unique beauty requirements of more than 10,000 customers over 40 years, it has designed some 500,000 different wig styles using real hair. Founder Linda Ho [or as Zaira and AsiaExpat have it, Founders He Yuqiong and Linda Ho] built an enviable reputation in the entertainment industry, creating wigs and hair designs for numerous Hong Kong films, TV shows and concerts, including Leslie Cheung’s Passion Tour in 2000. </p>



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<p>At the Tsim Sha Tsui shop, great care goes into the design of each personalised wig. Advanced customisation is based on the client’s head shape and circumference and skin colour. Hair quality and texture are also considered. It is crucial to choose the right hair colour to complement one’s skin tone and eye colour. </p>



<div class="wp-block-media-text alignwide is-stacked-on-mobile"><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="782" height="1024" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Bespoke_Nov2024_Image01-782x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-84116 size-full" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Bespoke_Nov2024_Image01-782x1024.jpg 782w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Bespoke_Nov2024_Image01-214x280.jpg 214w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Bespoke_Nov2024_Image01-768x1006.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Bespoke_Nov2024_Image01-200x262.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Bespoke_Nov2024_Image01-800x1048.jpg 800w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Bespoke_Nov2024_Image01.jpg 916w" sizes="(max-width: 782px) 100vw, 782px" /></figure><div class="wp-block-media-text__content">
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<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="683" height="1024" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Bespoke_Nov2024_Image07-683x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-84121" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Bespoke_Nov2024_Image07-683x1024.jpg 683w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Bespoke_Nov2024_Image07-187x280.jpg 187w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Bespoke_Nov2024_Image07-768x1152.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Bespoke_Nov2024_Image07-200x300.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Bespoke_Nov2024_Image07-800x1200.jpg 800w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Bespoke_Nov2024_Image07.jpg 1000w" sizes="(max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px" /></figure>
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<p>Whether the customer prefers natural shades that match their current hair colour or wishes to experiment with bold and vibrant hues, the experts at Lily Wigs help them to understand nuances of undertone and complexion while guiding them towards the most flattering wig colour. The time it takes to produce the perfect wig is determined by the complexity of the workmanship required. <em>lilywigs.com.hk</em></p>



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<p>Wigs and hair extensions have transcended their functional role and become a powerful tool for self-expression and empowerment. Beyond their ability to transform one’s appearance, wigs hold an emotional significance that goes beyond the surface. For individuals facing hair loss due to a medical condition, treatment or genetics, wearing a wig or hair extensions can be a life-changing experience.&nbsp;</p>


Top Notch: Bigwigs in the bespoke hairpiece business offer natural solutions for fashionable self-expression and empowerment


<p>Migraine is ranked by the World Health Organization (WHO) as the seventh most disabling disease and the leading cause of disability among all neurological disorders.</p>



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<p>Such is the severity of migraine in its harshest manifestation that the august body considers it to be as debilitating as quadriplegia, according to Dr Mark Weatherall, Consultant Neurologist at the Buckinghamshire Healthcare NHS Trust in the UK.</p>



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<p>“Now that sounds ridiculous on one level, but it is not really,” he says in a BBC podcast. “Because if you think about someone in the throes of a severe migraine attack, they are bedbound, they are vomiting, they can’t move, they can’t bear the light, they can’t bear the noise. They cannot do anything.”</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Widespread suffering</h3>



<p>Up to one billion people in the world are believed to suffer from migraine. The onset and causes of the disorder are thought to vary from person to person and the symptoms, likewise, differ considerably. A migraine may last for just a few minutes or as long as a few days, though several hours is often cited as common. Major symptoms include a throbbing head, nausea, dizziness and disturbed vision, yet any of the human senses can be affected, from phantom smells to tingling skin.</p>


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<figure class="aligncenter size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/pexels-mikael-blomkvist-4153229-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-84101" width="768" height="512" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/pexels-mikael-blomkvist-4153229-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/pexels-mikael-blomkvist-4153229-420x280.jpg 420w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/pexels-mikael-blomkvist-4153229-768x512.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/pexels-mikael-blomkvist-4153229-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/pexels-mikael-blomkvist-4153229-2048x1365.jpg 2048w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/pexels-mikael-blomkvist-4153229-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/pexels-mikael-blomkvist-4153229-800x533.jpg 800w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /></figure></div>


<p>Though conceding it is not a permanent disability, the headache specialist notes that the lives of people who have migraine daily or almost every day will be severely impacted. Carrying out normal routine activities or holding down a job may not be possible. Ultimately, acute migraine can wreck lives. Some sufferers have said they become emotionally withdrawn from family and friends.</p>



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<p>Until relatively recently, the condition has been little understood. It was not widely studied in the medical community, resulting in misdiagnosis. For instance, those struggling to find the right words for things during a migraine attack have been rushed to hospital with doctors suspecting stroke or a brain tumour.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Hallucinatory hell</h3>



<p>Visual disturbance comes under a range of symptoms called the migraine aura, which occurs in about 20-30% of sufferers. Relating to the focal area of dysfunction in the brain, auras can be flashing lights, wavy lines or a much more complex hallucinatory experience. The latter can be terrifying for the migraineur in the first unknowing instances – that is, before the extent and intensity of the sensations have been fully explained to the sufferer.</p>



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<p>During an aura, some people feel an overwhelming sense of fatigue and have reported seeing hexagonal shapes as if they were looking through the eye of a fly. A simpler visual disturbance is photopsia, which consists of circles, triangles, squares and other geometric patterns, usually white or multicoloured.</p>


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<figure class="aligncenter size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/pexels-olly-3768582-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-84102" width="768" height="512" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/pexels-olly-3768582-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/pexels-olly-3768582-420x280.jpg 420w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/pexels-olly-3768582-768x512.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/pexels-olly-3768582-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/pexels-olly-3768582-2048x1365.jpg 2048w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/pexels-olly-3768582-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/pexels-olly-3768582-800x533.jpg 800w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /></figure></div>


<p>Although these can be seen in any part of the migraineur’s visual field, it is actually a trick of the perceptual imagination; the patterns and shapes are not there in reality. Their occurrence is most likely unrelated to the eye itself and caused by irritation of the vision centre of the brain. More complex and symmetrical patterns can sometimes be seen, and even the blind have been known to experience this disturbing phenomenon.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Distorted perception</h3>



<p>Some disturbances are so bizarre that patients delay seeing a doctor for fear of being thought mentally ill. Objects can appear distorted and contorted in some types of visual aura, as if being visualised through a funhouse mirror; body proportions seem out of shape, necks become larger and legs look abnormally small. This is aptly called Alice in Wonderland syndrome since author Lewis Carroll was afflicted by migraine and used his bizarre hallucinatory attacks as inspiration to create Alice and her magical world.</p>



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<p>Changes in distance perceptions are also a feature of visual aura – how close or far away objects seem to the beholder could be totally unrelated to reality.</p>



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<p>Distortions of sensation or movement are characteristics of classic aura. Tingles or numbness on one side of the face and in the hands and arms can become alarming very quickly. Weakness and clumsiness can occur, while dizziness or abnormal sensations of motion or auditory misperceptions such as a ringing or crackling noise in the ears have been reported. For some sufferers, irritation in the part of the brain that handles memory also results in amnesia.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Pulsating headaches</h3>



<p>Migraine headaches are divided into two subtypes – classic migraine which has the aforementioned aura, and common migraine which appears with no aura. They usually affect the frontal forehead region as well as the eyes – an initial pressing, gripping pain that later progresses to a throbbing, banging, pounding headache.</p>


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<p>While headaches can be absent altogether (silent migraine), in some cases they are agonisingly painful, affecting the person’s entire skull; their ferocious intensity can entice suicidal thoughts. The scalp can become very tender during a severe migraine attack and sneezing, coughing and vomiting can become extremely painful.</p>



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<p>People with a prolonged history of migraine headaches should seek professional support if their headaches do not fit a recognisable pattern, or when abnormal physical symptoms are apparent.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Triggers of attack</h3>



<p>The exact cause of migraine is not clear, although spinal disorders, hormonal fluctuations, stress, fatigue, sleepless nights, certain odours, allergic reactions, glaring sunlight, diet, caffeine, exercise, levels of hydration, cigarette smoke and smoking itself have all been cited as contributory factors. Some people have even reported experiencing migraine headaches during sexual activity, especially at the moment of orgasm. For others, barometric pressure or altitude changes are believed to have triggered attacks. Avoidance of triggers may help, but attacks will usually still occur.</p>


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<p>Constriction of blood vessels was once theorised as a cause, but it is now thought that nerves in the body drive migraines. Weatherall notes that normal processes in the body dealing with sensory input go awry during a migraine attack. “You start to get signals sent out to the blood vessels around the head and the neck, and various neurochemicals are released. The lynchpin molecule, calcitonin gene-related peptide, is picked up by receptors around the blood vessels, which starts to generate pain. As that process continues, other networks start to become engaged that may make us feel nauseous or sensitive to light or noise,” he explains.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Effective drugs</h3>



<p>Medical research conducted into ways to block or ease the transmission of overactive pain nerves has highlighted a relationship between serotonin, a chemical messenger in the brain, and migraine. The triptan family of drugs has demonstrated efficacy in halting migraine attacks by affecting serotonin receptors. These drugs are often prescribed to patients when other preventative medications, such as painkillers or beta blockers, fail to provide relief. By imitating the actions of serotonin, these drugs ease overactive pain nerves</p>



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<p>A major new study led by the University of Oxford and involving more than 89,000 people has found that triptans are the most effective medicine for adults experiencing acute migraine. It compared the effectiveness of 17 different oral medications often used to treat the condition. The results were published in The British Medical Journal this summer.</p>


Days in the dark: For migraine sufferers, recent drug research could afford bearable light at the end of the tunnel


<p>The advantages accrued to the United States by its dollar being the world’s leading safe-haven asset are legion and ultimately help succour American power. Indeed, the US dollar’s status as the predominant reserve currency is known as the ‘exorbitant privilege’, enabling the country to borrow a lot of money relatively cheaply.</p>



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<p>Though economists and historians may argue about how long this privileged position may last in a rapidly changing world, there is less dispute over the numerous benefits it brings to the US economy, businessaes and consumers. Enzio von Pfeil, a prominent financial commentor in Hong Kong, cites the US Treasury’s ability to issue as much debt as it wants as a key bonus, as well as the elimination of transaction costs. “All of America’s international transactions are done via her own US dollar, thus obviating any foreign exchange risk as well as foreign exchange conversion costs,” he says.</p>



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<p>US government debt is also cheaper than that issued by non-reserve currencies. “Most reserves are held in US Treasury bills and bonds. Thus, strong global demand for USD Treasuries means that their yields are low,” explains von Pfeil, highlighting how the government can infinitely fund its federal debt at very low rates.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Financial gains</h3>



<p>Other financial advantages derive from the depth of the dollar-dominated global payments system – all global US dollar transactions are easily processed via Swift (the interbank financial telecommunications network) – and the US dollar’s broad acceptance. American consumers also benefit from the willingness of countries to hold the US dollar as part of their reserves portfolio since this cushions their exchange rate.</p>



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<p>As Professor Kent Matthews of Cardiff Business School in the United Kingdom outlines, short-term inflows and outflows are absorbed by the global currency markets without much change in the price of the dollar. “This means that the dollar exchange rate has a marginally higher value relative to other currencies. This is the dollar premium,” he says.</p>



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<p>There are political advantages, too. “Owning the world’s predominant currency, the Americans can weaponise it by freezing another nation’s dollar assets, denying other nations any access to the dollar, or blocking their access to Swift,” notes von Pfeil.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Historical fluctuations</h3>



<p>However, having a powerful global currency can also be a curse. “The yen and the pre-euro Deutschmark resisted attempts by the global market to make them larger internationalised currencies because upward pressure on their respective exchange rates would hurt their exporters,” explains Matthews of Japan and Germany’s export-led economies.</p>



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<p>While any credible challenge to US dollar supremacy remains a subject of speculation, the same was once said of the British pound, which had prevailed for a century in the Pax Britannica period prior to the First World War (1914-1918). “Sterling lost its dominance because the immutability of its value was lost as it was weakened after the First World War. Its net foreign asset position declined dramatically after this war, and fell to zero after the Second World War,” says Matthews.</p>



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<p>“It was losing in terms of trade dominance and capital dominance. At the same time there was a credible alternative,” he adds, referring to the eventual succession of the US dollar.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Dollar supremacy</h3>



<p>Jean-Marie Mercadal, CEO of Hong Kong-headquartered Syncicap Asset Management, points out that the supreme strength of the dollar as the international currency of reference is justified in several respects – including that the US is the world’s largest economy with more than 25% of global GDP; US equities account for nearly 65% of international equity indices; it is the greatest military power; US soft power is strong, culturally and technologically; and the dollar is accepted everywhere.</p>



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<p>This all-powerful position of American economic and political dominance is echoed in financial statistics cited by von Pfeil: “88% of foreign exchange trades involve US dollars; 80% of all foreign trade is conducted in US dollars, and about 60% of all foreign currency reserves consist of US dollars.”</p>


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<p>At this stage, von Pfeil sees no real prospect of the dollar being usurped; the euro, the world’s second most important currency, commands just 20% of global total reserves. He also notes that any moves to create a Brics – the Brazil, Russia, India and China-founded international organisation – digital currency or gold-backed stablecoin are still in their embryonic stages, plus such initiatives could be derailed by internal competition between its member states.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Rise of the renminbi?</h3>



<p>The renminbi, von Pfeil believes, is not ready to be a contender. “The yuan is a controlled currency, meaning that the RMB is neither freely convertible nor tradeable,” he says, also pointing to a dwindling share of renminbi global forex reserves since 2022. Furthermore, there is no legal framework for global renminbi transactions on the scale, or with the depth, of Swift.</p>



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<p>According to Matthews, Beijing’s tight control of fund flows under its capital account is the standout hurdling block to the yuan becoming the dominant currency. He acknowledges that “the renminbi is a threat to the dominance of the dollar” but only in the long term in the event of further relaxation of flow restrictions.</p>



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<p>Other financial experts are more bullish about the currency of the world’s second-largest economy, and highlight that the US dollar is beginning to face competition from the renminbi. In March last year, the latter overtook the dollar to become the ascendant currency in China’s own cross-border payments, according to China’s State Administration of Foreign Exchange. “China now exports more than 50% to other emerging countries that can be paid in renminbi that they get in return for their sales of raw materials,” says Mercadal. “Saudi Arabia, for example, sells oil to China and buys high value-added manufacturing goods in return, such as solar panels.”</p>



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<p>He sees great significance in such transactions, noting that compared to 20 years ago China now has a wealth of high-quality manufactured products to trade, attracting countries that can pay with commodities or agricultural goods.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Risks and rewards</h3>



<p>Despite this, the ability to settle trades in renminbi alone is unlikely to boost its use, according to Sam Kima, Senior Vice-President of bullion services provider First Gold. He points out that the volume of such trades depends on exporters’ willingness to accept the currency for payment, which in turn depends on their ability to use the yuan accrued.</p>


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<figure class="aligncenter size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Chart-2-Dollar-Dominance-Recedes-Blog-1024x885.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-83886" width="512" height="443" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Chart-2-Dollar-Dominance-Recedes-Blog-1024x885.jpg 1024w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Chart-2-Dollar-Dominance-Recedes-Blog-324x280.jpg 324w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Chart-2-Dollar-Dominance-Recedes-Blog-768x664.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Chart-2-Dollar-Dominance-Recedes-Blog-200x173.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Chart-2-Dollar-Dominance-Recedes-Blog-800x691.jpg 800w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Chart-2-Dollar-Dominance-Recedes-Blog.jpg 1430w" sizes="(max-width: 512px) 100vw, 512px" /></figure></div>


<p>“As the renminbi is not broadly used in international trade and finance, there are relatively few outlets to spend these proceeds. Cumulating the inflow would therefore incur substantial costs and raise currency risks,” he says. “The yuan may gain ground through bilateral agreements and economic growth, but the dollar’s established trust, transparency and stability give it a significant advantage.</p>



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<p>“Furthermore, the US political system, despite its complexities, provides a stable and predictable environment for investors. The rule of law, property rights and institutional stability in the US create a favourable climate for the dollar to remain the preferred reserve currency.”</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Money as a weapon</h3>



<p>Perversely, any real threat to the US dollar could be as a result of its strength. Von Pfeil explains: “Weaponisation is the key threat to the popularity of the US dollar. If a country knows that its US dollar assets will be frozen (step in Russia), or that it will be denied access to US dollars, not to mention denied access to Swift, then why trade in US dollars?”</p>


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<p>Escalating geopolitical events, shifting national interests and growing non-US trade, particularly with Asia, have spurred some emerging economies to consider diversifying their external relations. “Countries in the Middle East and North Africa are becoming acutely aware of the risks emanating from their dependence on the US dollar. Dollar dependence also limits their economic sovereignty by increasing their vulnerability to fluctuations in the US economy,” says Kima, who notes that higher international borrowing costs from hikes in US interest rates are another concern.</p>



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<p>As many commentators indicate, any shift from one currency dominance to another can take several decades. “For now, there are no real competitors to the dollar,” affirms Mercadal. “The renminbi is not yet freely convertible, and the euro is a political construct that can be fragile.”</p>


Buck Whizz: The rise and fall of global currencies is a process which reflects new realities


<p>Former teen star Sabrina Carpenter has blossomed into a multifaceted artist, captivating audiences with her talents in both music and acting. First gaining recognition on the Disney Channel series Girl Meets World (2014-2017), the now 25-year-old has since carved a unique space in the entertainment industry, transitioning from a young actress to a fully-fledged pop idol.</p>



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<p>Sabrina Annlynn Carpenter was born on 11 May 1999 in Pennsylvania and raised in a creative environment, inspired by family, including her aunt Nancy Cartwright, the actor who voiced Bart Simpson. Homeschooled alongside her three elder sisters, she discovered her passion for music at a young age. By 10, she was posting covers of Christina Aguilera and Adele songs on YouTube, showcasing an impressive vocal range.</p>


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<p>Her early efforts paid off when she came third in the US-wide singing contest, The Next Miley Cyrus Project, in 2009. This exposure, combined with her father’s support in building a recording studio, set the stage for her future success. In 2014, she signed with Hollywood Records, releasing her debut single, Can’t Blame a Girl for Trying, which marked the beginning of her musical journey.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Plan A</h3>



<p>A decade later, an espresso served during one of her European trips spawned another hit song. Released this spring, Espresso is a catchy pop jam full of cheeky quotables, including a chorus built around the unlikely phrase, ‘That’s that me espresso’.” Carpenter has confessed to having the song stuck in her head and then “decided to put that burden on other people”.</p>



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<p>“I’m just annoying. I’m literally just annoying,” she says of her climb to pop stardom. “I never had the plan B, and it wasn’t even a thought in my mind that it wouldn’t work out. I just always knew it was about not if it would happen but when it would happen.”</p>


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<figure class="aligncenter size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="819" height="1024" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Sabrina-Carpenter_04_p-819x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-84043" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Sabrina-Carpenter_04_p-819x1024.jpg 819w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Sabrina-Carpenter_04_p-224x280.jpg 224w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Sabrina-Carpenter_04_p-768x960.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Sabrina-Carpenter_04_p-1229x1536.jpg 1229w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Sabrina-Carpenter_04_p-200x250.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Sabrina-Carpenter_04_p-800x1000.jpg 800w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Sabrina-Carpenter_04_p.jpg 1440w" sizes="(max-width: 819px) 100vw, 819px" /></figure></div>


<p>Carpenter’s music reflects a diverse range of styles, incorporating elements of folk-pop, R&amp;B and dance-pop. Influenced by powerhouse vocalists like Christina Aguilera and Rihanna, she has embraced her identity as an artist, creating authentic and relatable anthems. Beyond her music she has made a name for herself in movies, headlining notable projects such as Adventures in Babysitting (2016), The Hate U Give (2018) and Clouds (2020). The Netflix comedies Tall Girl (2019) and Work It (2020) showcase her versatility and commitment to storytelling. Broadening her artistic repertoire, she also took her talents to Broadway, starring in the musical Mean Girls (2020).</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Adventures in Chart-topping</h3>



<p>Carpenter’s early discography includes four studio albums: Eyes Wide Open (2015), Evolution (2016), Singular: Act I (2018) and the following year, Singular: Act II. Hits like Alien, Almost Love and Sue Me saw her topping the US Dance Club Songs chart, establishing her presence in the pop landscape. In 2021, she made a bold move to Island Records and released Skin, her first entry on the Billboard Hot 100. </p>



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<p>Her fifth album, Emails I Can’t Send (2022), received critical acclaim, with singles Nonsense and Feather climbing the US Pop Airplay charts. The latest venture, this year’s Short n’ Sweet, debuted at the top of the Billboard 200 in September, marking a significant milestone in her career. Featuring the chart-topping Espresso as well as Please Please Please, it further solidifies her status as a pop sensation.</p>


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="819" height="1024" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Sabrina-Carpenter_01_edit-819x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-84041" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Sabrina-Carpenter_01_edit-819x1024.jpg 819w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Sabrina-Carpenter_01_edit-224x280.jpg 224w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Sabrina-Carpenter_01_edit-768x960.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Sabrina-Carpenter_01_edit-1229x1536.jpg 1229w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Sabrina-Carpenter_01_edit-1638x2048.jpg 1638w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Sabrina-Carpenter_01_edit-200x250.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Sabrina-Carpenter_01_edit-800x1000.jpg 800w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Sabrina-Carpenter_01_edit.jpg 2000w" sizes="(max-width: 819px) 100vw, 819px" /></figure></div>


<p>“Obviously, I write songs about exactly how I feel, so I guess I can’t be so surprised that people are interested in who and what those songs are about. That’s something that comes with the territory,” she says.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">On Stage for Society</h3>



<p>Carpenter is not only a talented performer but also a passionate advocate for various causes. Since 2016, she has supported the Ryan Seacrest Foundation to inspire today’s youth and participated in initiatives promoting mental health and LGBTQ+ rights. Her partnership with the nonprofit PLUS1 during her Short n’ Sweet Tour aims to uplift marginalised communities, emphasising her commitment to social change.</p>



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<p>In a recent collaboration with US ice-cream parlour chain Van Leeuwen, Carpenter introduced an espresso flavour, with profits benefiting the New York-based Ali Forney Center, which supports homeless LGBTQ+ youth. Her dedication to philanthropy highlights her desire to make a positive impact through her platform.</p>


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<figure class="aligncenter size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="819" height="1024" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Sabrina-Carpenter_05_p-819x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-84044" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Sabrina-Carpenter_05_p-819x1024.jpg 819w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Sabrina-Carpenter_05_p-224x280.jpg 224w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Sabrina-Carpenter_05_p-768x960.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Sabrina-Carpenter_05_p-1229x1536.jpg 1229w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Sabrina-Carpenter_05_p-1638x2048.jpg 1638w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Sabrina-Carpenter_05_p-200x250.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Sabrina-Carpenter_05_p-800x1000.jpg 800w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Sabrina-Carpenter_05_p-scaled.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 819px) 100vw, 819px" /></figure></div>


<p>Dividing her time between New York and Los Angeles, she likes sketching and visits Disney World with her Irish actor beau, Barry Keoghan. She’s not a club girl but enjoys eating at a beautiful restaurant. “As much as people want to believe you’re tuned into every little thing, I’m not because I’m constantly working,” she notes.</p>



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<p>Before her concert tour, which kicked off in September in the US and ends next March in Italy, she did get a little downtime. She arrived at the Met Gala wearing a gorgeous bespoke Oscar de la Renta bustier gown, and made her debut on Saturday Night Live, performing Espresso and a Nonsense/Feather mashup, as well as playing Daphne in a Scooby-Doo-themed segment.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Meeting the World Head On</h3>



<p>Whether she’s on stage, in front of the camera or championing important causes, Carpenter embodies the spirit of a modern-day icon. Her journey is just beginning and she’s feeling more ambitious and determined than ever.</p>



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<p>“I feel really grateful that this has happened over the course of a lot of time of me figuring it out because it doesn’t feel like it was sprung up on me,” she says. “It’s almost like I can just relax and be excited about it. I say Sabrina wasn’t built in a day.”</p>


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<figure class="aligncenter size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="819" height="1024" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/intv-mag-ps_007-819x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-84040" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/intv-mag-ps_007-819x1024.jpg 819w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/intv-mag-ps_007-224x280.jpg 224w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/intv-mag-ps_007-768x960.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/intv-mag-ps_007-1229x1536.jpg 1229w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/intv-mag-ps_007-1638x2048.jpg 1638w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/intv-mag-ps_007-200x250.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/intv-mag-ps_007-800x1000.jpg 800w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/intv-mag-ps_007.jpg 2000w" sizes="(max-width: 819px) 100vw, 819px" /></figure></div>


<p>From her Disney roots to her current status as a pop phenomenon, Sabrina Carpenter is a testament to the power of perseverance and creativity, lighting the way for aspiring artists everywhere. As she continues to evolve as both an artist and an individual, she remains a beacon of inspiration for her fans. With her unique blend of talent, authenticity and advocacy, she is poised to influence the entertainment industry for years to come.</p>



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<p>“I don’t know how to describe it,” she says. “When you’re a child and you just have a feeling of, I know I’m going to do this someday. I know I’m going to do this for the rest of my life. I know this is the path I need to follow, whatever that means for me, and whatever success that means for me is what I’m destined for. I have dreams and goals, and I will say I’m a little bit of a freak manifester sometimes, which is a blessing and a curse depending on how you look at it. I always knew deep down that this was something I would do with my life, and I didn’t ever really doubt that, even when shit was hitting the ceiling fan,” she says, quoting her own “Please Please Please” lyrics. “No pun intended. I don’t think I ever doubted it.”</p>


Artistry of a Carpenter: Pop star and actor Sabrina Carpenter is shaping her Hollywood world with a level head and skilled hands


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<p>In the vibrant heart of Causeway Bay, a hidden gem transports you to the glory days of old Hong Kong and Shanghai. Apartment O offers a rare chance to experience the elegant lifestyle of wealthy families in the 1930s, combined with all the modern conveniences of today.</p>



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<p>As you step inside, you’re enveloped in the timeless charm of the era. The spacious units, ranging from 1,020 to 1,500 sq. ft., feature design elements that pay homage to the opulent aesthetics of old Shanghai and Hong Kong. Sink into the plush furnishings, adorned with rich textures and gilded accents, and gaze out at the sweeping city views from your private terrace or balcony.</p>


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<figure class="aligncenter size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/DSC05584-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-83642" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/DSC05584-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/DSC05584-420x280.jpg 420w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/DSC05584-768x512.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/DSC05584-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/DSC05584-2048x1365.jpg 2048w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/DSC05584-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/DSC05584-800x533.jpg 800w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure></div>


<p>The attention to detail is unparalleled &#8211; from the fully equipped kitchen with state-of-the-art appliances to the Dyson hair dryer in every bathroom. Enjoy the convenience of in-unit laundry, while the dedicated housekeeping service ensures your living space is always immaculate.</p>



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<p>But Apartment O is not just about the luxurious interiors. Step outside and you’re immediately immersed in the dynamic energy of Causeway Bay, with its world-class shopping, dining, and entertainment options right at your doorstep. Stroll through the lush gardens of Lee Gardens, or lose yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Times Square.</p>


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<figure class="aligncenter size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/DSC8991-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-83755" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/DSC8991-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/DSC8991-420x280.jpg 420w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/DSC8991-768x512.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/DSC8991-1536x1025.jpg 1536w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/DSC8991-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/DSC8991-800x534.jpg 800w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/DSC8991.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure></div>


<p>At the end of the day, retreat to the building’s shared rooftop, cigar room, and lounge &#8211; a serene oasis where you can savor the flavors of a bygone era. Sip on a perfectly crafted cocktail as you watch the sun dip behind the iconic skyline, and feel the stress of the day melt away.</p>



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<p>Apart from being a pet-friendly property, Apartment O is more than just a residence &#8211; it’s a gateway to a truly exceptional lifestyle. Immerse yourself in the opulent elegance of 1930s Hong Kong and Shanghai, while enjoying all the modern conveniences you desire. Experience the best of both worlds, where the past and present seamlessly coexist.</p>


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<figure class="aligncenter size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/pet-friendly_apartment-o_causeway-bay_serviced-apartment-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-83643" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/pet-friendly_apartment-o_causeway-bay_serviced-apartment-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/pet-friendly_apartment-o_causeway-bay_serviced-apartment-420x280.jpg 420w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/pet-friendly_apartment-o_causeway-bay_serviced-apartment-768x512.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/pet-friendly_apartment-o_causeway-bay_serviced-apartment-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/pet-friendly_apartment-o_causeway-bay_serviced-apartment-2048x1365.jpg 2048w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/pet-friendly_apartment-o_causeway-bay_serviced-apartment-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/pet-friendly_apartment-o_causeway-bay_serviced-apartment-800x533.jpg 800w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure></div>


<p>Secure a piece of this timeless luxury at Apartment O &#8211; where the grand legacy of the past meets the comforts of the present.</p>


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<figure class="aligncenter size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/WhatsApp-Image-2024-10-15-at-15.51.36-1.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-83756" width="196" height="180" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/WhatsApp-Image-2024-10-15-at-15.51.36-1.jpeg 392w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/WhatsApp-Image-2024-10-15-at-15.51.36-1-306x280.jpeg 306w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/WhatsApp-Image-2024-10-15-at-15.51.36-1-200x183.jpeg 200w" sizes="(max-width: 196px) 100vw, 196px" /></figure></div>


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