Latest news with #Sothebys
Khaleej Times
21 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Khaleej Times
A Dubai-based art collector channels Audrey Hepburn in her dream home vision
Head of Sotheby's UAE, Katia Nounou Boueiz, came to Dubai in 2015 and is now leading the first GCC outpost of an auction house with nearly 300 years of history under its belt. She gave wknd. an exclusive preview of some of the highlights of her growing art collection at her Jumeirah home, and told us how everyone can become a collector. Katia calls the couple's villa as 'a quintessential LA-style house, right in the middle of Jumeirah'. It has a modern feel, high ceilings and expansive glass windows, as well as big white walls which are perfect for showcasing art. 'We have lots of colourful paintings and ceramic sculptures everywhere throughout. In terms of the furniture, we've made a conscious effort to keep it as minimalist as possible, to let the art take centre stage,' she explained. Katia hosts art collectors from around the world while she cooks up her signature Persian cuisine from her family recipes for as many as 130 guests. Just 38, Katia was born and raised in London but is originally of Iraqi and Iranian heritage. She moved to Dubai together with her husband after they got married in 2015. 'Being surrounded by beautiful paintings for the last 17 years since I started working at Sotheby's will make you into somewhat of a collector,' she told wknd. 'Though my favourite period has to be that of the Impressionists - a little over my budget - my husband and I have slowly started to build a collection over the last 12 years that brings together established and less established contemporary artists from all over the world. 'The first piece that we bought was for our London home, a 1970s piece titled Atom by Turkish artist Hamit Gorele, which we won in a Sotheby's auction. I still absolutely love it.' One of the most exciting purchases the couple have made is a beautiful piece by Latifa Echakhch, which they bought from the Kamel Mennour Gallery. 'She is a very talented Moroccan-French artist who participated in the Venice Biennale in 2011 and won the Duchamp Prize in 2013. This is one of the few paintings both my husband and I fell in love with instantly, we were both 100% sold the moment we saw it.' Sotheby's, founded in London in 1744, and the world's oldest and largest internationally recognised firm of fine art auctioneers, opened its first Dubai-based gallery in 2017. 'While others were focusing on categories such as watches and Middle Eastern art, though we also catered for the best of the best in those fields, my priority was to establish ourselves as the pioneers in bringing masterpieces of international art from different periods, in line with the Louvre Abu Dhabi's boundless approach,' Katia told wknd. 'We showcased Old Masters with Rembrandt, Rubens, Botticelli, Impressionist and Modern Art with Picasso, Kandinsky and Giacometti, and Contemporary including a monumental Mappa by Boetti and a one-of-a-kind collection of Warhol prints.' Since then, the auction house has also presented some incredibly important and rare jewels in the UAE, such as Marie-Antoinette's jewels, including her pearl, as well as major gemstones, such as the 303 carat Golden Canary yellow diamond and the magnificent 55 carat Estrela de Fura ruby. And the company's work in the UAE only keeps growing. In April, Sotheby's held its first public exhibition in Abu Dhabi in 15 years, unveiling $100 million (Dh367 million) of rare diamonds at the Bassam Freiha Art Foundation on Saadiyat Island, with two days of sold-out guided tours. Work and home have now become interwoven for Katia, for whom collecting has become a way of life. But it is not only for professionals, she says. 'The first thing I always advise is to establish your own personal style or aesthetic, and consider the overall theme of your home, whether it's more modern, classic or traditional, or eclectic or minimalist. 'You should seek out art that will compliment and enhance your interior. The next most important thing is that the art speaks to you, whether its paintings, photography, sculptures, you should choose pieces that resonate with you and evoke emotions. All of this will enhance your everyday living.' Textures are key to a collection's visual appeal, so varying the art created in different mediums is vital, she said. 'I also highly encourage trying to buy from artists globally - there are so many things out there once you start looking,' she said. Her favourite space in the Jumeirah villa is the main entrance, a true focal point that any guest will have to see. An open space with natural light pouring in, it's a testament to the very personalities at the heart of the home. 'Here you have artworks hung, centred around my favourite piece of furniture, a wooden dining table that is a pretty big statement piece,' she said. 'My second favourite spot would have to be my rooftop, with its gorgeous view of Dubai's iconic skyline, which is where I tend to host all of my big parties,' she added. But contrary to her life of city living from London to Dubai, Katia says that her dream home would be a charming Provençal or country-style house, like the one once owned by Audrey Hepburn in a small village in Switzerland, with a big vegetable and fruit garden. 'This would be a nice contrast to the busy city and beach lifestyle I have between London and Dubai, something I would welcome in the future, when I'm manifesting my retirement plans,' she smiled. 'For inspiration, I look to the likes of Martha Stewart and Amal Clooney, as I love the aesthetic of their interior style. Going through Sotheby's catalogues is also an age-old inspiration, that is all the more easier now its all online. You could spend hours browsing through and seeing how collectors over time have decorated their spaces.' But for now, Dubai remains a huge inspiration, a hub bringing the world to the Middle East in an ever-growing arts and culture scene. 'Dubai is such a dynamic, vibrant and culturally diverse city, which draws influences from all around the world,' she said. 'The city inspires me to appreciate a wide array of styles and aesthetics, encouraging me to blend these various elements into my collection and the work that I do. I find beauty in the fusion of contemporary designs and art mixed with earthy elements, which creates a nice balance. 'By nature of my line of work at Sotheby's, I get to meet so many interesting people from all over the world, and through these experiences and encounters, my taste is ever evolving.'
Reuters
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Reuters
Portrait of Gallagher brothers to be auctioned before Oasis reunion gigs
LONDON, June 18 (Reuters) - A 1996 portrait of brothers Liam and Noel Gallagher at the height of their Oasis fame heads to auction next week as the siblings prepare to start a series of reunion gigs. Painted by U.S. artist Elizabeth Peyton, "Liam + Noel (Gallagher)" is based on a promotional photograph of the siblings taken the year before and depicts them "in a moment of intimacy and repose", according to Sotheby's. Like the photo, the painting, which was made after Oasis' historic 1996 Knebworth gigs, depicts Liam resting his chin on Noel's shoulder. In the photo, Liam has his thumbs up, but not in the painting. The work is being offered at Sotheby's "Modern & Contemporary Evening Auction" in London on June 24 with a price estimate of 1.5 million to 2 million pounds ($2 million - $2.69 million). "It's a beautiful circular moment for the painting... This was made in 1996, on the eve of their then biggest ever concert at Knebworth," Antonia Gardner, head of Contemporary Evening Sale, told Reuters on Wednesday. "And now this is coming back into the market, coming back into the spotlight... on the eve of their incredible... tour." Oasis made their debut with 1994's "Definitely Maybe" before finding international stardom with their second studio album "(What's the Story) Morning Glory?" released in 1995. It went on to sell 22 million copies worldwide and was the band's breakthrough in the United States. However, the Gallaghers' volatile relationship often made headlines. The group split in 2009 when lead guitarist and main songwriter Noel said he could no longer work with frontman Liam after a number of public spats. Last August, they announced they would reunite for a series of gigs, which will kick off in Cardiff on July 4. As well as "Liam + Noel (Gallagher)", other paintings on offer at next week's sale include Tara de Lempicka's "La Belle Rafaela" and Pablo Picasso's "Nu assis dans un fauteuil", both with estimates of 6 million - 9 million pounds.
Arab News
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Arab News
Immersive ‘Diriyah experience' to open in London's Knightsbridge
JEDDAH: A pavilion hoping to attract investment in the development of historic Diriyah will open in London's prestigious Knightsbridge borough next month. The Diriyah Experience House, at One Hyde Park, will feature the project masterplan for the city, which is projected to welcome more than 50 million visitors annually by 2030. Interactive content will allow visitors to explore the scheme in more detail. Jerry Inzerillo, group CEO of Diriyah Company, said: 'We are thrilled to launch the Diriyah Experience House in the heart of London. Through this global platform, our team will share the story of Diriyah in a way that reflects its stature on the world stage — supporting our international outreach as we build one of the world's most iconic destinations rooted in the Kingdom's deep history and rich cultural heritage.' The pavilion is set to have its official opening in early July, in collaboration with Sotheby's International Realty, which will operate the venue. It follows a successful month-long event held in London in July 2024, which highlighted the plans for Diriyah and was accompanied by an intensive promotional campaign across the British capital. The efforts aim to elevate Diriyah's global profile as the birthplace of Saudi Arabia and attract increased international interest in its investment potential. Diriyah Art Futures also recently concluded 'The Light Footprint' exhibition at Venice's Querini Stampalia Foundation. Held in collaboration with Italian architecture firm Schiattarella Associati, it coincided with the opening of the Venice Biennale of Architecture 2025. Curated by Marta Francocci, the exhibition explored the design and conceptual development of DAF's innovative Riyadh headquarters, an architectural landmark inspired by Najdi tradition and sustainable design. It highlighted the fusion of cultural heritage with technological advancement through models, sketches, videos and archive materials. Developed by the Saudi Museums Commission, DAF is envisioned as a global hub for art, science and education. 'The Light Footprint' was also featured in the collective exhibition, 'Intelligens Naturale, Artificiale,' curated by Carlo Ratti as part of the biennale's official program.
Zawya
2 days ago
- Business
- Zawya
Diriyah Company launches London Experience Center at One Hyde Park, Knightsbridge
DIRIYAH: Diriyah Company is launching a new marketing initiative at one of London's most prestigious locations to showcase the project. The Diriyah House Experience Center will be hosted at One Hyde Park, a premier business address in Knightsbridge near Harrods. It will provide an immersive experience for those interested in opportunities in Diriyah, one of Saudi Arabia's giga-projects located on the outskirts of Riyadh. The Diriyah House Experience Center's official opening is scheduled for the beginning of July 2025. The center will operate as a co-branded hub operated by Sotheby's International Realty, the UK company originally founded by Sotheby's art dealers. Sotheby's International Realty has recently entered the Saudi market and chosen Diriyah as a key launchpad, already marketing branded residences for prestigious hospitality names such as The Ritz-Carlton, Corinthia, and Baccarat—all part of the landmark developments taking shape in Diriyah. The Diriyah House Experience Center will include a state-of-the-art marketing suite featuring a masterplan model and flexible model display. It will bring The City of Earth to life for a wider global audience. Diriyah Company Group CEO Jerry Inzerillo said 'We are delighted to open this high-profile and prestigious experience centre in the heart of London.' 'This prestigious London address enables us to share Diriyah's story on a global stage in a truly world-class setting, strengthening our international outreach as we build one of the world's greatest gathering places, rooted in the history, heritage and culture of the Kingdom.' George Azar, Chairman & CEO of Dubai, United Kingdom, and Saudi Arabia Sotheby International Realty, added: 'We are proud to collaborate with Diriyah Company on this landmark initiative and to support the launch of the Diriyah House Experience Center at One Hyde Park. As their partners, we are pleased to offer our experience and expertise in presenting ultra-prime real estate to a global audience. With a strong foothold in the UK's super-prime market, this collaboration allows us to do what we do best — represent the world's most exceptional properties while acting as local experts with global reach. Through this partnership, we look forward to connecting discerning investors and stakeholders in the UK with the extraordinary vision and opportunities emerging in Diriyah.' The announcement of the Diriyah Experience Center follows a successful month-long activation by Diriyah Company at Harrods in London in July 2024. The campaign featured a showcase of Diriyah's masterplan models and a supporting out-of-home marketing campaign across the city. This international engagement reflects the growing global appetite for investment in The City of Earth and reinforces Diriyah's commitment to connecting with the international investment community. Located on the outskirts of Riyadh and backed by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund, Diriyah is an integrated urban development project covering 14 square kilometers. It includes building homes for around 100,000 residents and is expected to create nearly 180,000 jobs. Its ambition is to attract approximately 50 million visits annually, contributing an estimated SAR 70 billion (£16.6 billion) to Saudi Arabia's GDP. Diriyah Company does not have any permanent establishment or a place of business in the UK. The Diriyah House Experience Center is operated by Sotheby's International Realty for the sole purpose of marketing Diriyah' s projects. About Diriyah Diriyah, Saudi Arabia's premier historical, cultural, and lifestyle destination, is a key component of Saudi Arabia's 2030 Vision. A short 15-minute drive from Riyadh's city center, this 14-square-kilometre development holds historical significance as the birthplace of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, dating back to 1727. Currently being developed by Diriyah Company, Diriyah is undergoing a transformation into an authentic Najdi-style mixed-use urban community. Diriyah's centerpiece is At-Turaif, the UNESCO World Heritage Site inscribed in 2010, showcasing the ancient adobe capital city of the First Saudi State, dating back to 1766. Upon completion, Diriyah will host 100,000 residents, workers, students, and visitors, offering a diverse range of cultural, entertainment, retail, hospitality, educational, and residential spaces. The first of those spaces include Bujairi Terrace, Riyadh's new premium dining hub with over 20 global and local restaurants and cafes that enjoy uninterrupted views of At-Turaif. Bab Samhan, a Luxury Collection Hotel is the first hospitality offering in Diriyah, providing a tranquil experience with panoramic views of Wadi Hanifah. Diriyah's development provides a dynamic environment that celebrates Saudi Arabia's rich cultural history. About Diriyah Company Diriyah Company was established in 2023 and joined the Public Investment Fund's (PIF) portfolio of giga projects. The Company is responsible for developing the Diriyah project, the birthplace of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and its foremost historical, cultural and lifestyle destination. A dynamic mixed-use developer, Diriyah Company is redefining urban planning to develop Diriyah, 'The City of Earth', while adhering to the highest design, development, and preservation standards. The company ensures Diriyah's cultural landmarks are complemented by world-class retail offerings, fine-dining experiences and leading hospitality brands. As a PIF company, its mission focuses on opportunities in development, hospitality, investment, retail and office leasing, along with strategic asset management, underscoring the commitment to ensuring successful business outcomes and sustainable growth under the strategic direction of Vision 2030. The Diriyah Company actively forges long-term partnerships to realize its vision of establishing Diriyah as one of the world's greatest gathering places. Social Handles: X | @DiriyahCo / Instagram | @diriyahco / LinkedIn | Diriyah-Company / Diriyah Company About Sotheby's International Realty: United Kingdom Sotheby's International Realty takes pride in upholding a name renowned for its expertise and successful sales of prestigious properties. Part of the Sotheby's International Realty network of 1,100 offices worldwide and 26,100 global property experts, United Kingdom Sotheby's International Realty possesses unique insights into international real estate markets. The network provides a powerful marketing and referral programme for luxury properties worldwide, which gives United Kingdom Sotheby's International Realty an unparalleled advantage in operating in the top-tier markets to represent the most luxurious homes in the UK. Building on quality and heritage, United Kingdom Sotheby's International Realty has emerged as a thought leader in the luxury property market with a singular and bespoke offering.
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Lifestyle
- Yahoo
The 7 worst home design trends for anyone over 60 (and what to do instead)
Trendy isn't always timeless when it comes to home decor, especially when your joints disagree. While your younger self might have loved the idea of sleek, handle-free cabinets or a dramatic floating staircase, your knees, hips and peace of mind will all thank you for choosing function over fleeting fashion. 'Many of the most beautiful modern design features aren't built for long-term practicality," says Gemma Hobb, a Calgary-based Sotheby's International Sales Representative. "A home's functionality must evolve with its occupants.' If you're over 60 and planning to stay in your house for the long haul, consider avoiding these 7 home decor trends as part of any renovations. Picture this: you're trying to grab your coffee mug from the upper cabinet, but your arthritis is flaring up. Those handle-free cabinets suddenly become your worst enemy. Push-to-open mechanisms demand precise pressure and dexterity, which is precisely the kind of motion that becomes more difficult with age. Traditional handles and knobs? They're not just reliable workhorses; they provide better leverage and are gentler on aging joints. Deep base cabinets might maximize storage, but they also maximize frustration when you're crawling around on the kitchen floor, searching for the one pot you need. Items disappear into cabinet black holes. Your knees will protest. Smart solution? Pull-out drawers and lazy Susans that bring everything within easy reach. This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Contact a qualified medical professional before engaging in any physical activity, or making any changes to your diet, medication or lifestyle. Admit it — these are stunning. But are they safe? Not even close. Open treads become foot traps, and those barely-there railings offer about as much support as a gentle suggestion. 'Comfort, safety and ease of daily living become top priorities for aging homeowners,' Hobb notes. Your staircase should support you, not be an obstacle course. Smart homes promise convenience, but what happens when the technology outsmarts you? Wifi crashes, apps freeze, and suddenly, you can't turn on a simple light. Touch-activated faucets become maddening when dealing with tremors or reduced dexterity. Sometimes, the most sophisticated solution is the simplest. A regular light switch never needs a software update. High-gloss floors, countertops and cabinet doors gleam like mirrors in design magazines — and they can turn your home into an ice rink. They're slip hazards waiting to happen and also show every fingerprint, water spot and dust particle. Matte finishes aren't just safer; they're significantly more forgiving for daily life. Remember when sunken living rooms — also called conversation pits — were the height of sophistication? Today's version includes random decorative steps scattered throughout open-concept spaces. These unexpected level changes are trip hazards disguised as design elements. Your peripheral vision may not be what it used to be, and these subtle elevation changes can catch off guard. If you're stuck with them, contrasting tape on step edges and excellent lighting are non-negotiable. The minimalist bathroom aesthetic has banished grab bars as 'institutional' and eliminated tubs as 'outdated.' Big mistake. 'A poorly-designed bathroom can quickly become one of the most dangerous rooms in the home,' warns Hobb. 'Fortunately, most issues can be addressed proactively through smart design.' Modern grab bars come in sleek finishes that complement any design scheme. They're safety features, not eyesores. As for tubs, soaking can be therapeutic for aging joints, not to mention some people can't stand for long showers. 'In my experience, simplicity, safety, and low maintenance are what aging buyers value most,' Hobb explains. However, here's the thing: this doesn't mean your home has to look like a medical facility or sacrifice style for function. It's about making wise choices that will serve you beautifully for decades to come. For those ready to take a comprehensive approach to aging-in-place design, consider following a safety checklist for aging-in-place. The Government of Canada Guidelines provide an excellent framework covering everything from exterior lighting and secure railings to proper bathroom safety features and fire safety considerations. It's a room-by-room assessment that can help you identify potential issues before they become problems. Your future self will thank you for thinking ahead. After all, the most enduring design trend of all is one that lets you live comfortably, safely, and independently in your own home for as long as possible. Because the best kind of home design isn't just stylish; it's livable for life.
