The City God Temple or Chenghuang Miao (Chinese: pinyin: Chénghuángmiào) is a temple located in Shanghai, China, within the old walled city. Today the “City God Temple” not only refers to the large temple complex, but also the traditional district of commerce in the city, surrounding the temple. There are over a hundred stores and shops in this area, and most of these store buildings are nearly a century old. The temple connects to the Yuyuan Garden, another landmark of the old city.

Regardless of size, many walled cities in ancient China contained a temple dedicated to one or more immortal or god as the spirit(s) or protector(s) of the city.

The City God Temple in Shanghai originated as the Jinshan God Temple, dedicated to the spirit of Jinshan, or “Gold Mountain”, an island off the coast of Shanghai. It was converted into a City God Temple in 1403, during the Yongle era of the Ming dynasty.

During the Qing Dynasty, the temple grew popular. Residents of the old city as well as nearby areas visited the temple to pray for good fortune and peace. The temple reached its largest extent in the Daoguang era. The popularity of the temple also led to many businesses being set up in the area, turning the surrounding streets into a busy marketplace.

When this temple was first built in 1403 under Ming Emperor Yongle (1403-25), it was dedicated to the legendary Han general Huo Guang as well as the guardian city god, Qin Yubo. Qin Yubo was a righteous scholar who refused to get involved in court politics (then rife with corruption) despite much pleading from the emperor. Deified upon his death in 1377, Qin Yubo now watches over and protects the city of Shanghai.

The temple had become more of a marketplace by the time of the Cultural Revolution (1966-76), when it was mostly destroyed. Both the temple and surrounding market were thoroughly restored in the early 1990s.

The present version of the Chenghuang miao has been much restored since its 15th-century origins, but still retains its historic and authentic feel. There is still a statue of General Huo Guang in the front hall and Qin Yubo in the back hall, with many other deities represented as well.

Many Shanghai residents frequent the temple to offer incense before their favorite local god, hoping for good fortune in return. The temple is staffed by what the Blue Guide China calls “bad-tempered monks who]are clearly more interested in collecting money from local people willing to pay to have the gods solve their problems than entertain foreign visitors.”

The Temple of the Town God is surrounded by the reconstructed shops and restaurants of the “traditional” market, as well as the beautiful Yu Yuan (Garden of Content), created in the 16th century.

Check the images of worshippers and general feel.

Joelle’s Tips:

The Temple: The Temple of the Town God

Hours: 08:30-16:00
Address: No. 247, Middle Fangbang Rd.,Huangpu District
Transportation: Buses: No.11, 42, 64, 66, 126, 926
Admission: CNY 5

The Source: Sacred Sites, places of power

This pleasant architectural ensemble has houses from the 16th to the 19th century. Today it is essentially home to high-class antiques shops, typical restaurants and chocolate sellers. The square is a good meeting point for dinner or a weekend brunch, or for an atmospheric walk.

Every weekend the antiques market on the church side enlivens the square with its red and green awnings, pulling in crowds of curious onlookers. The Antique and book markets  Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Sunday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

My favorite spot is the auction house Pierre Berge & Associates where the most intriguing  design furniture and 19th century objets d’art are auctioned on weekends as well. This weekend auction Design Contemporain had  eccentric collector’s items  I literally went mad for.

Check the information on and the auction result. Some of it was very affordable, next time,I will see you there! It’s a date?

Joelle’s Tips:

Sablon Antiques Center (39 Place du Grand-Sablon),  Some 20 dealers display their wares in the 600-meter-space of the which sells everything from formica-top desks to ornate chandeliers.

Philippe Dengs (1 rue de Sablon) boasts objects of European art from 1900-2000,

Zinda Gallery at 15 Place du Grand-Sablon specialises in Oriental carpets and galleries.

Davidoff (1 place du Grand Sablon) is the place to go for pipes and tobacco.

Start your day with a pain au chocolat and a coffee at Le Pain Quotidien (11 rue des Sablons)

For lunch and dinner, there are numerous places, frequented by Brussels’ movers and shakers in what some say is a ‘poseurs’ paradise’.

Favourites are trendy Lola (33 place du Grand Sablon), which has lovely fish, pasta and innovative desserts and the always lively

l’Entrée des Artistes (42 place du Grand Sablon), a bustling brasserie whose walls are filled with framed photographs of international film stars.

The one-Michelin-starred Ecailler du Palais Royal (18 rue Bodenbroek) ise heaven for seafood lovers.

Claire Fontaine Epicerie Fine (3 rue Ernest Allard) sells home-made soup for takeout as well as hot prepared foods and all all sorts of interesting spices and other delicacies,

La Tarterie de Pierre (39 Place du Grand Sablon) sells hearty savory and sweet tarts for take-out.

To satisfy your sweet tooth, take your pick of Pierre Marcolini (recently installed in new ornate digs just off the square),

Godiva or Wittamerwhich also has a pleasant lunchtime café (6 place du Grand Sablon) with outdoor seating

The Source: Office of tourism Belgique  and Expatica

With prospects of tourism, an enlightened government under President Luis Echeverria Alvarez wrote a presidential decree allowing Mexican banks to hold titles to property In Trust for foreigners. It is called a Fideicomiso and it provides for all rights of ownership as any citizen would enjoy. The term of the Trust is for 50-year periods, automatically renewable by law. In other words, title to the property may rest in one beneficiary indefinitely-which protects your heirs and your investment.

As the purchaser of property, you may use and enjoy, build, rent, bequeath or sell the beneficial rights in the trust anytime, conforming only the general laws of the country established for all persons. Today, U.S. Title insurance is available for properties held in trust. It assures the utmost security of your purchase as it would in the U.S.

The area that takes you along the coastline and beaches from San Jose del Cabo to Cabo San Lucas is known as the Corridor. It is considered the most prestigious, exclusive and beautiful real estate in all of Mexico. The unadorned symmetry of the desert, mountains, beaches and sea is complemented by unparalleled championship golf courses and some of the finest resort communities in the world.

The Corridor experience goes beyond world class golf and fishing. It is enhanced by indulgent spas and sophisticated dining. Properties in the Corridor are bursting with amazing views and tremendous luxury. They are located within the exclusive resorts of Querencia, Palmilla, Villas del Mar, Espirtu del Mar, Cabo Real, Cabo Del Sol and Punta Ballena. Many real estate brokers such as Beatriz Calderon of Querencia and Christie’s will be pleased to arrange for property viewings at your convenience.

As a general real estate company, Baja Properties has unbiased access to all properties throughout the Corridor and can assure your interests are primary. Many financing options are available in Los Cabos which makes it an ideal time to find your special property.

Known since 2000 as Cabo’s first private golf club, Querencia is nestled between rugged desert mountains and the sparkling Sea of Cortez. Translated as a place to return to regain strength and security, Querencia is a gated 1,800-acre residential golf community that marries Mexican and Tuscan-style architecture with the finest of amenities.

The Tom Fazio-designed 18-hole golf course is the centerpiece of the development.  The cliff-top 320-acre masterpiece which offers a 12-acre practice facility with 11 target greens, putting green and expansive short game practice areas was officially inaugurated by Sergio Garcia and Phil Mickelson during a Shell’s Wonderful World of Golf match in February 2001

Club Querencia features a world-class membership experience, ultimately offering two championship courses, a private beach club, family-oriented Club Village complex, spa, tennis courts and a state-of-the-art fitness center.  Querencia currently offers a private golf membership, and a social membership is also available for property owners.

Querencia provides a variety of posh resort-style amenities, including a 58,000-square-foot Club Village that offers multiple dining venues, an extensive wine cellar, infinity pool and Jacuzzi, lap pool and waterfall, spa and wellness services including concierge services.  The serene and natural environment of Querencia provides an ideal setting for yoga.

The property’s private Yoga Pavilion offers personal and group classes.  Yoga for Golfers, a new program, incorporates a series of exercises that slowly, gently and effectively move the body toward greater strength and flexibility. Querencia is the only development in Cabo that offers this certified program.

The resort offers buyers a number of real estate options.  At completion, the low-density community will offer a wide selection of full-ownership home sites, villas, condominiums and custom homes among 1,800 acres of open space.

Querencia is currently introducing its second phase, which will provide exciting additions to the maturing resort-style community.  A new expansion will add a Gil Hanse-designed 18-hole golf course; a Beach Club located inside a secluded natural cove in the Los Cabos corridor that will offer a casual outdoor bar and dining area, pool, spa, fire pit and private beach cabanas; and new ocean view residential offerings.

The Palmilla resort is the grand dame of Los Cabos. Located just four miles from San José del Cabo and overlooking the breathtaking bay, Palmilla provides its residents with elegance, privacy, amenities and luxuries that no other community offers.

It is home to the famed 27-hole Jack Nicklaus Signature golf course, the One & Only Hotel and lavish Mandara Spa. The resort also offers pristine swimming beaches. Simply stated, Palmilla is in a league of its own.

It is without a doubt that from its historic beginnings to its current elegance, the Palmilla Hotel is the definition of luxury in Los Cabos. When its first visitors flew in on their small planes, arriving at the Palmilla was an oasis to the adventurer.   The historic hotel, rich in Mexican character and elegance was still in operation in 1986 when Baja Properties started.  Those of us who were fortunate to experience the Palmilla in its original nature know that an important part of the future of Los Cabos came from the defining luxury and charm that the Palmilla embraced.

Today as the ultimate resort community in Los Cabos, it is the proud home of the One and Only Hotel and number one ranked Mandara spa, as the centerpiece for its 12 private communities.  Spoiled with 27 holes of world class, Jack Nicklaus designed links, the properties meander along the course and beaches reaching to the dramatic hill tops and are nestled in the desert.  The Palmilla resort offers a rich variety of residential opportunities and upon its completion will feature more than 1,000 high end properties.

Experienced agents have witnessed the growth throughout the neighborhoods of Palmilla, and their insight can be a great resource for you in finding your unique property in Palmilla. They would be pleased to schedule an appointment or introduce you to the available homes, building sites and pre-construction opportunities at your convenience.

Looking out over the San Jose Bay the impressive landmarks are Punta Gorda to the east and Palmilla Point to the west. On a full moon evening the earth’s beacon seems to rise from the core of Punta Gorda.  Above the One and Only Hotel at Palmilla Point, the luxuriously draped hillsides begin to glow.

It is here that you will find the exclusive gated residential community of Villas del Mar, considered among the most coveted real estate in the world.

Within the communities of Villas Del Mar lies the finest collection of elegantly appointed beachfront, ocean view and mountainside resort homes. Villas Del Mar offers an unequaled pairing; the comforts of a luxury vacation home along with the services and amenities of a five-star resort.

Just steps away from the gates of Villas Del Mar, one can enjoy 27 holes of Nicklaus championship golf, world-class tennis at the Palmilla Tennis Club, private beach club privileges at Club 96, gourmet restaurants and access to the phenomenal spa at the One & Only Palmilla Hotel.

Villas Del Mar‘s reputation for combining exceptional architecture, impeccable service and exquisite lifestyle within an exclusive private setting continues to attract worldwide attention.

Espiritu Del Mar features over 100 spectacular residences nestled in intimate terraced enclaves on a 75 acre property embracing Villas del Mar.  The home sites are configured around mountain vistas and natural desert arroyos, each offering panoramic ocean views.  A variety of housing choices are available within each residential cluster to suit various lifestyle needs.

The 4 bedroom, 4 ½ bath Casitas showcase gourmet kitchens, private infinity-edge pools, colonial Mexican architecture fused with modern amenities, and in some cases, detached 5th bedroom guest suites.  The Terrazas homes are 3 bedroom, 3 ½ bath or 4 bedroom, 4 ½ bath with open-air courtyards, master suites with private balconies, media rooms and meticulous craftsmanship.  Residents will enjoy privacy, outstanding amenities and the superlative property management services associated with all Del Mar Development communities.

This distinguished community boasts over three miles of walking trails with various degrees of difficulty and 28 acres of natural open spaces and community parks and gardens including an expansive, one-acre park.  These communal spaces are lushly landscaped and provide areas for family gatherings or group entertainment.  Cascading fountains, cast iron sculptures, scenic overlooks and telescopes for whale watching are key features of these community parks and gardens.

At its heart, you will find Mirador de la Cruz, a hilltop meditation sanctuary with a cross that has been long revered in Los Cabos as a monument to the seafaring culture of Baja.  This remarkable property also features the private Club Espiritu, a multi-generational family fitness complex with an amphitheater, multiple swimming pools, outdoor palapa, state-of-the-art fitness center, resident lounge and park

The Baja Properties team of luxury professionals is  also available to show you the properties throughout Villas Del Mar and Espiritu Del Mar. Their experience in representing your interests will guide you to owning in Los Cabos’ premier luxury communities. Go for it!!

Joelle’s Picks:

Properties for sale: at las Ventanas

Real Estates Agents:

Beatriz Calderon/Sales Associate Las Ventanas Real Estate Christie’s Great Estates Affiliate

www.lasventanas-realestate.com /  ph. 52 (624) 144 2848 / cell. 52 (1624) 147 5269/  betty@lasventanas-realestate.com

Baja Properties:  Plaza Coral Baja No. 5 y 6 San José del Cabo, Baja California Sur, México C.P. 23400
Email: sales@bajaproperties.com
Toll Free: 1-877-464-2252
San Jose Del Cabo: 142-0988
Los Barriles: 141-0075
Cabo San Lucas: 143-2560

“An artist community is a way of life, a place where people live and produce. If you want to find the artist community you … have to meet the people.”

Los Visitantes by C. M. Mayo, Tameme, Inc.

I am ready to go. My personal butler Aemando hands me fresh towels for the road ” You are going to need those miss senhora the weather is very dry out there”  and while he opens the door of my  jeep he adds:  “Enjoy Todos Santos, I am sure you will love it, and please  stay fresh!

The road is among the most different I have ever been.The main vegetation associations are composed of xeric scrubs, which have been subdivided in diverse categories according to dominant species and the ecological conditions in which they occur. Thick-stemmed trees and shrubs, growing on rocky volcanic soils, cover the highest parts of the mountain ranges. What’s most interesting is a variation of Cacti species , extremely tall ones, reaching at times more than 5 meters of elevation..

Highway 19, which runs from La Paz to Cabo San Lucas and passes through Todos Santos, was built in 1986, about the time a pair of well-known artists from New Mexico—Charles Stewart and Ezio Columbo—moved to town. This duo played an integral part in perpetrating the American and Canadian artist migration to this tranquil Mexican town. The surfers came on their own, lured by tales of never-ending, pristine beaches and perfect waves—Endless Summer Baja style. Avid surfer-rocker Chris Isaak recorded a CD (Baja Sessions) here.

Todos Santos is nestled above a large huerta, or palm grove, on the Pacific coast, of Baja California Sur midway between Cabo San Lucas and La Paz, but it’s as different from both of these cities as they are from each other. Founded in 1724, it was a remote, inaccessible outpost until the late 1800s when its vast aquifer was discovered. Sugarcane farmers rushed in and it grew into a booming agricultural community overnight.

Today, all kinds of tropical fruits and vegetables are grown in and around the town. Not only has it retained its colonial charm; it’s become a bi-cultural oasis—a tropical paradise with a diverse selection of art galleries, shops, a few boutique hotels and several astonishingly good restaurants. You won’t find mega-resorts or cruise ships here, and you won’t find Burger King or McDonald’s either.

I stop the car to buynear a gas station ever-seen  gigantic mangoes, while taking a few pictures of the road landscape I ask the friendly vendor to tell me more about the little statue representing a saint with some flower and candle offerings. ” Es  nostro San Christovan  el patron de motoristas e vendedores de fruta senhora“. Intrigued, I check  my blackberry IT for more information:

Saint Chritopher apparently is the patron for  automobile drivers, boatmen, bus drivers, cab drivers, floods, fruit dealers,  drivers, mariners, market carriers, motorists, porters,  sailors, storms, sudden death, taxi drivers, toothache, transportation, transportation workers, travelers, truck drivers, truckers, watermen.  Juan the vendor, amused by my curiosity gives me back my change, an extra mango and a free toothless smile. ” Gracias” I reply as I quickly get back  in the car car doubled with protection and delicious fruits on my lap.

We arrive in a quaint, tranquil, quiet, relaxing small Mexican town, one of  another world. It took us about one hour drive from Cabo San Lucas . The town of Todos Santos , I read out loud  in the guide from Las Ventanas concierge,  was officially designated a Pueblo Magico, or Magical Town on June 17, 2006, by thr the Tourism Secretary  and The Annual Art Festival is usually held during the first part of February each year.

In a stroll through its streets I am now walking and  admire the colonial architecture that still preserves buildings of the nineteenth century. One of them is the “Casa de la Cultura”, the beautiful church and many art galleries and craft shops.

Casa de la cultura is a Cultural center that today houses five museums, plus an ethno botanical garden, a library and a small auditorium, The Church of Our Lady of Pilar, was built around 1733 and although it has been renewed several times, it remains as a beautiful example of architecture.

Each October 12, I am told by the waiter in a curious cafe, that residents of Todos Santos and nearby towns and cities celebrate a festival with pilgrimages, dances and a kermesse.Thanks to its climate, abundant vegetation and beautiful beaches,Todos Santos has become a point of inspiration for the realization of beautiful artwork, reason why in this village there are over 20 galleries where artists present their work to visitors.

The new-hippie town  is home to numerous fine artists. Many have galleries in town or in their homes. Galería de Todos Santos and Hotel California feature multiple artists. Jill Logan, N.E. Hayles, Charles Stewart, Libusche, Catherine Wall and others have galleries showcasing their personal art.

My favorite, the artist Gabo provides a bright spark in the extensive art community in town. His art speaks loudly and profoundly to the spirit. Gabo expresses an intense exposure to life. His colorful art has a definite sense of humor. His art is reminiscent of art by Tamayo, Miro, Calder and Picasso. – “Esta Noche Las Santas Pasíones Andan Sueltas” Tonight saints of passion walk loose) Noches de Todos Santos Mixed Media on Canvas – 60″ x 70″is the one I like best

Other artists are not so easy to locate in Todos Santos. You have to look to find them. They work behind fruit stands, have day jobs as cooks, own bed and breakfast inns, sell real estate, or operate the town’s classiest accommodations. But talking about passion, the day, the town and its people , I am  now diving silently  into quite waters of La Poza Beach in Todos os Santos and dream already of my next adventure. It’s a magical sunset in Todos os Santos…

Joelle’s Picks:

The Artists: Find them here

Other Magical towns:  Pueblos Magicos

The Magic retreat Casa del Lago and Alegrias Vilas La Poza Beach

Artistic and eco accomodation” Pousada La Posa

The Source: Todos os Santos

The restaurant / bar: Tequila Sunrise Br & Grill Calle Juarez, Todos Santos, Mexico (612) 145-0073

Antiques, fashion or design every small , medium and large shop in Brussels has a story to be told. Rather than offering you a traditional shopping guide, ( there are plenty of excellent ones in the market,)

I have picked a selection of my favorites shops, not only because of their special and selected merchandise of which by the way I have had an immense pleasure to portrait in this post ( being a luxury global brand nowadays is very common)

but because of the  stories behind the mysterious windows panes who at times reflect the owner’s lifestyles, interests, and local architect’s insights on modern Bruxellois living,  all displaying the uniqueness of some of the city most hidden treasures.

L’Ecuyer

This  traditional gallery at Avenue Louise formerly  founded in 1945 at rue de l’Ecuyer is since 1952, directed by Gilbert Winans, known himself as the “ L’ Ecuyer” ( The Horseman).

This same gallery, has witnessed timelessly  the evolution of world of antiques dealers and the fashionable trends of world collectors. Always faithful of his clientele’s taste , he could bring Charles the Xth andNapoleon III to Art Nouveau and the Scandinavian design.

From beautiful blue and pastel colored Opalines to Belle Epoque glass vases of artists such as Galle,Daum, Gruber,up to material works of Samuel Herman for Val Saint Lambert .

Since always,” L’Ecuyer” has been  proposing antique jewelry but also and mostly he has defended that Art Nouveau, from contemporary Scandinavian, English,(Grima)  creation

It’s s a rainy day, I rush into the entrance door of the legendary shop, monsieur Gilbert himself opens the door for me, after turning a key lock four times to the left. “ Malmoiselle bonjour” he adds ‘ my assistant will take care of you”.

I introduce myself, ask if I can take a few pictures of his stunning collection of art pieces, furniture and interesting assemblages while I show him my press and business card ” New York! Oh I love that city – he says with a large but nostalgic smile” I used to go there several times a year with my partner and companion, you know I used to design several pieces to Asprey and other important houses over there!”

He really seems a very interesting person, while I look around in this old glamour gallery, I learn that the owner apart from launching Belgian artists in all forms of the beginning of the century, he designs all sorts of artifacts himself with such a joy and creativity.

bjects and vases with sensuous lines and subtle light, jewelry that carry feminine figures and curly hair, fluent dresses and attitudes, some having geometric precious  details in blue Agathe stones, a flair ofJaponism and several colorful papier marche collages bottles, chairs and art works he created all along these years  of which he is very proud of.

Gilbert Winhams  is showing obvious  sympathy towards my curious interest in sneaking behind a semi – open door leading to an office with several books and a beautiful  Art Nouveau stained glass roof.

” With another large smile Monsieur Gilbert who at the age of 81 still travels all over Europe to source unmistakably original and rare objects asks me with a lecturing almost defying tone :

” I am sure you have heard about our  Belgian painter, architect and interior designer, Henry Van de  Velde ?  “Together with Victor Horta he could be considered one of the main founders and representatives of Art Nouveau in Belgium.” He says

I must tell you that he like many of all artist from which you see the art works in this gallery, were all my personal friends. ” While he talks to me I see him bending under a small table from where he lifts up quickly with the help of his assistant the gracious and very polite Sylvie, a very sexy vintage brown leather Louis Vuitton suitcase with a silver and worn-out buckle.

“  Van de Velde spent the most important part of his career in Germany and had a decisive influence on German architecture and design at the beginning of the 20th century.” he tells me while he ask me to follow him with his hand. A set of hundreds of black and white old portraits of Van Der Velde all dedicated, signed and written at the back with sketches for his long time friend Gilbert.

Sylvie Gilbert assistant smiles at the secret revelation, a cute black cat and a catwalk of sculptures made of stone and clay in the pretty garden behind a luminous window smile as well conspiring silently with those never shared secrets and legendary personalities breathing through the walls of this eclectic gallery.

Essentiel

The dynamic spirit of this 100% Belgian brand caught my attention through their flagship store while walking in the direction of the Toison D’Or for a gauffre and a hot choccolate.

Typical of the 90ties concept store, you can easily browse and find behind a glazed made- in- China  Sang -de -Bouf vase, the scarf you’ ve been searching forever to give your boyfriend.

You find yourself diving unconsciously into one of the last uber books with the title of nothing less than “ Dark Nostalgia” realizing it was your next aspirational design style for your grandmother’s apartment but you did not know it yet.

Cute, expensive bright colored leather helmets for your son’s bike  week-end escapades in Knokke le Zoute.

Fancy sneakers and the last high-tech device which are powerful headphones preciously packed in white and yellow boxes probably as trendy as the phones themselves will tempt you almost viciously while ‘ I am not going to teach your boyfriend how to dance’ from the Black kids plays its tune through white and micro Bose speakers strategically placed in throughout the store alley.

Essentiel is  a line created in 1999 by Esfandiar Eghtessadi ( Nicole Codine‘s son) who grew up in fashion.

Among the Zebrano wood shelves, animal prints and Deco Golden Palm trees sculptures suggesting a blending atmosphere between 1930 African Decadence  and Miami modern shabbiness, you soon realize that  glamour and femininity in the couple creation go hand in hand with comfort .

This balance is mainly inspired by the complicity of the creator Esfandiar and his wife Inge Onsea. Essentiel offers a range of clothing which can be worn and combined to the infinite, a line that fits to all moods shifting with great ease from relaxed style to a more sophisticated one.

The brand also offers a collection for girls 4 to 16 years old mischievous and charming at the upper floor of this  impressive flagship at  Avenue Louise. The Brussels  flagship opened two years ago by the couple, hired Belgian architects Estelle and Florent .

The brand is success story par excellence: Esfandiar Eghtessadi and Inge Onsea started with just a few T-shirts, and now seven years later, Essentiel is a beloved staple of multi-brand boutiques in Belgium.The brand is sold in ten exclusive stores as well.

Flamant

With a very precise sense of fine works, Flamant Home Interiors has invented a concept that is both simple and ingenious: the revival of handicraft furniture and old objects adapted to the needs of today. Furniture that seems to have existed forever and which passes from one generation to the next.

In Paris, Hamburg, Brussels and Antwerp, and more or less everywhere in the world, Flamant Home Interiors has installed a “Bourgeois-Bohemian” art of living, a blend of nonconformity and elegance, tradition and cool. Its main quality: knowing how to make unconventional use of even the most conventional things.

Oblivious of fashionable trends or systems of every kind, in search of perfection, Flamant provides a resolutely modern vision of decoration, incorporating comfort, elegance and originality. Consequently, the border between past and present becomes decidedly blurred. The Sablon Shop presents  interiors of discrete luxury, of intimate charm, in which family furniture, curiosities and contemporary armchairs share the space with the glossy leather of elegant sofas and interiors.

More than a style, a life style as well, at ease in a loft in New York, an apartment in Paris, a chalet in Megève, a bastide in the South of France, a little house by the seaside. It has to be said that, at Flamant, we have a taste for lived-in houses. the crudeness of trade furniture making the best of the juxtaposition of yesterday’s and today’s styles.

Vitra Point

Is a stunning high ceiling  space, truly among my favorites in the city, housing Vitra furniture collection and reflecting it’s  innovative philosophy. This showroom is located in the heart of Brussesl in the most prestigious place called the “ Sablon” and today on the window it is written” We at Vitra like elephants”  I find this teser ther perfect excuse to check the place out an it’s reading about the mentioned wild animals.

Opened in 2006,the 500 square meters is given over to a comprehensive collection magnificently displayed  on the walls  which includes 20 the century re-editions of design classics.

It’s so overwhelming to walk under very bright lights surrounded by Charles and Ray Eames black leather office chairs neatly assembled over a Jasper Morrison’s ‘Ply’  wood table.

Frank Gehry , Verner Panton heart and cone chairs majestically suspended in the air over a long and a short  George Nelson ‘s  cute and multicolored ‘ Marshmellow’s ‘sofas ,Ron Arad  ‘Bad Tempered ‘ Chair.

The shop owner sitting on a white ‘Wire’ chair checking a price on his computer invites me to explore all rooms of the store authorizing me to take as many pictures as I wish.

But my first wish is to ‘ chase’ Charles and ray  Eames plywood elephant designed by Eames, 1945. I want to give it to a special sweetheart.  (Check it out, in the picture above) it’s so cute! After that I can shoot with my camera lens everywhere I look

Argentinian Emilio Ambaz, Iraky Zaha Hadid, Japanese Tadao Ando, Porugues Alvaro Siza and Alberto Antonio Citterio from Italy, among many others furnish this spectacular showroom with beautiful colors, photographs but most of all a  precious miniature  collection , perfect for gifts to complete the range.

The miniatures collection present the most important classics of modern furniture history in miniature scale of 1:6. their construction, materials and colors correspond to the historical Vitra design museum collection original, right down to the last detail. Because they are so true to the originals, the miniatures are not only valuable collector’s items, but also ideal illustrative materials for universities, colleges of design and architects. the miniature collection is unique worldwide. for each miniature there is a license agreement with the designer or his heirs.

Ritual Gallery

Africa is at the crossing of the oldest cultures and traditions. The fascinating symbolism and variety of its different type of ceremonies, the intensity of some of its tribal rituals, highlights with sometimes the most unexpected turn, the richness and depth of their values and beliefs. African Tribal Art is considered as the witness of these beliefs, some masterpieces even being the center point of the ceremonies. These objects have a story to tell, a story of a ritual or a celebration.

The spirit injected in the creation of these objects, the energy contained within them, make African Tribal Art one of the finest and most sought art in the world today and allow its dignified place on the great board of human art. Among all forms of art this is by far one of my favorites ever. Every time I am in the city I like to stop by at the gallery and check the present exhibitions.

The 2R Ritual Gallery exposes African Tribal Art objects or collections at the heart of Brussels. Moreover, it also centralizes information in this domain still fairly unknown around the globe, domain in which even the most passionate collectors often have serious difficulties to trace objects or collections.

The two passionate and experimented art dealers and galley owners, Renaud Riley and Roger Bourahimou define themselves as experts and consultants, helping art collectors and amateurs as well as investors to find the object they are looking for with all the guaranties of authenticity and price estimate.

Francis Jassens Van der Maelen

Founded in 1978, this  gallery of Francis Janssens van der Maelen with beautiful interiors is installed in the « Grand Sablon » in Brussels, place privileged and renowned for the trade of art. Specialized in antique silverware and objects of art, this antique dealer proposes a very beautiful selection of European decorative silver of the 18th and 19th centuries, and from Art Nouveau and Art Deco periods.

These objects wear, mainly, marks of France, Belgium, England, Russia…, as well as those of the best silversmiths recognized for their perfect mastery of this art so noble.   Some statuettes in terra-cotta and bronze, pieces in porcelain and ceramic, pictures of high quality are also shown to the amateurs. Francis Janssens van der Maelen is a member of the « French Syndicate of the Antique Dealers » and of the « Royal Chamber of the Antique Dealers of Belgium ».

Ut Pictura Musica

In the heart of the historic  place the Sablon, sit comfortably in style and listen to your favorite classics admiring the beautiful view overlooking the large windows of this very cozy music shop.

If you are lucky enough to meet with the owner, you will have the music counseling, and a VIP concierge service for  any reservation to  in-house or public classical music concert in the country. Wow!

Senteures D’ Ailleurs:

This absolutely impressive and very selective boutique, is situated at 94, Avenue Louise is a different type of space: it has bridged the gap between a straightforward perfume store and the so called concept store so popular now. The idea is to be neither of these two but instead to create an ambiance which simply visually matches the refinement of the products it houses.

The boutique is comprised of two worlds: home fragrances, perfumes and skincare, all openly displayed on beautifully lit shelves.

When first entering this vast and rich world, the choice can seem overwhelming. That’s why I advise you to let yourself be guided by their team of experts who are all trained as noses to help you discover your dream fragrance. It’s a must, trust me!

Joelle’s Tips:

Art and Antiques :

l’Ecuyer: Avenue Louise 187,B Bruxelles /Tel: + 32 2 648 0684 / Fax: +32 2 647 3564 / e.mail:galerieecuyer@yahoo.com

2R Ritual Gallery: Rue van Moer 2 / 1000 Bruxelles  / info@2r-ritualgallery.com / Tel : +32 479 50 43 90

Francis Janseens van der Maelens Grand Sablon ,Rue Ernest Allard 23  1000 Brussels, Belgium
Phone: +32 2 502 71 80 ,Fax:     +32 2 502 87 03 ,Email:   Jvdm@fineartsilver.com

Sablon Antique market : Well-heeled locals spend their weekends browsing pristine antiques on Place du Grand Sablon. The shops around the square are best for African antiques and exquisite chocolates. The square’s many cafés are perfect for people-watching on a lazy Sunday afternoon.

Young Gallery : Pascal Young opened his first gallery in June 2000, presenting a collection of photographs chosen for their formal and contemporary spirit. Conrad Hotel 1050 Bruxelles

Belgian Fashion :

Essentiel : Avenue Louise 66 Tel +32 2 513 1891 / info@essentiel.be

Chine: Avenue Louise 82/84 1050 Bruxelles Tel + 32 2 512 4 52

Francis Ferent:Galerie Louise 49-50 – 1050 Brussels /+32 2 511.83.87/ ferent.galerie@skynet.be

Olivier Strelli: 72, Avenue Louise, 1050 Bruxelles / = 32 2 512 5607

The Brussels fashion scene has established its headquarters in another part of the city: the rue Antoine
Dansaert (in the city centre)  district, at a stone’s throw from the Grand Place. It is the hotspot for mostly young creators and avant-garde new Belgian designers. Around the rue  discover several upcoming designers such as Conni Kaminski (draped ensembles for men and women), Y-dress? (convertible clothes for city nomads), Le Fabuleux Marcel de Bruxelles (easywear anywhere check the website it’s fabulous), and Christa Reniers (contemporary jewellery). One of the first fashion shops  that opened in rue Antoine Dansaert and in doing so boosted the image of the district is Rue Blanche (sophisticated fits and prints), which has in the meanwhile become one of the classic brands  in the Belgian fashion scene.

Design :

Vitra Point 35 place du Grand Sablon / Grote Zavel 1000 Bruxelles / Tel + 32 2 242 0202 / Fax + 32 241 0101

Flamant:    Place du Grand Sablon 36, 1000 – Brussels – BelgiumTel.: +32 54 41 54 7/ Fax.: +32 54 41 93 22 6969

Other Goodies:

Senteur D’ Alilleurs :Avenue Louise 94, 1050 Bruxelles Tel: +32 2 511 6969

Ut Pictura Musica: Rue Bodenbroek, 8  1000 Brussels – Tel  +32 (0)2 256 77 32 / Email utpicturamusica@fugalibera.com Classical music Cd in a wonderful interiors.

Sablon Shops

Eat, drink  while you shop:

Il Giusto Flamant Italian  menu very  casual / Place du Grand Sablon 36, 1000 – Brussels – Belgium
Tel-fax: +32 2 514 47 17 – ilgusto@flamant.com

Au Vieux Saint Martin : ( my favourire Brasserie ever, check the filet Americain and french fries ) 38, Place du Grand Sablon 1000 Brussels Tel + 32 2 -512.64.76

Le Perroquet: Very cute for L’ Aperitif!  31, Rue Watteau 1000 Bruxelles Tel : 32 202-512.99.22

Et qui va promener le Chien ? Best location for your antiques galleries shopping the feeling is that you are in a middle of a garden in the hrest of the city. Rue de Rollobeek 2, Brussels, 1000 / Tel: +32 25032304