Beirut Museum of Art Co-Director Taline Aynilian Boladian’s Dubai villa graces the cover of this issue, an aestheticist’s playground which immediately sparks dialogue between the past and present. Architectural seating configurations, mid-century influences, geometric light pendants and Armenian antiquities converse with contemporary artworks (p.80). The home provokes cultural conversations about the importance of history, music, calligraphy, and the fight to preserve beauty. “Given the escalating threats of cultural erasure, the urgency to protect what’s left of our tangible culture has never been more critical,” Taline asserts. The home has a beating heart of its own, a soul, vibrant and alive, refusing the threat of social conformity. Calming yet energising at the same time, @nat.bowen also opens the doors to her art-filled home. The bold contrast between the simplicity of neutral walls and the vibrancy of her art characterises the spirit of the space – which is also home to her studio, so she can pick up a paintbrush whenever inspiration strikes (p.70). “Much like my artwork, the home itself serves as a canvas, and I love how they come together to create an environment filled with colour, light, and energy,” says the British self-taught visual artist, who approaches her abode much like she approaches her art, with a focus on light, texture and movement. This urge to create and transform the ordinary into something extraordinary is shared by the designers of this issue – never settling for less and striving for excellence in the world of creativity. A Verbier chalet designed by @secretinteriors serves perfect inspiration for the season, a home that prioritises cosiness without compromising on luxury (p.52). The marriage between aged wood and modern furnishings beautifully captures a timeless spirit, while the integration of Swiss charm with Italian style seamlessly creates a cross-cultural ambience. […]