Banyan Tree Samui, one of Thailand’s leading beachfront resorts, has announced a partnership with T.A.I Studio, bringing a collection of handwoven bags and baskets from Phatthalung in southern Thailand to the resort’s onsite boutique, Banyan Tree Gallery Samui. The collection is made from krajood sedge and banana tree fibre — materials grown and gathered in Phatthalung — transformed by combining traditional weaving and production methods with contemporary design. T.A.I Studio was founded by husband-and-wife Nick and Sai Rawling as a way of connecting these existing materials, skills and making traditions with luxury hospitality. Today the studio works alongside a network of growers, weavers and specialist makers around Phatthalung, with different hands contributing weaving, hand-loomed cotton, embroidery, leatherwork and finishing. “When these traditions are thoughtfully integrated into contemporary hospitality, something else becomes possible,” said Rawling. “Visitors encounter a...
For mechanical watch enthusiasts who appreciate structural design and historical narrative, Shanghai Watch has introduced a compelling new series: the Originate · Fangyu Collection (致敬·方隅).Drawing its blueprint directly from the historic architecture of The Bund City Hall Plaza, the Fangyu collection brilliantly translates urban landmark geometry into a wearable, contemporary form. Design & Architectural DNA At the heart of the design concept is the building's enclosed courtyard and unique profile. The name Fangyu echoes the guiding design philosophy: “The Great Square Has No Corners.” The Case: A compact 38mm square silhouette crafted from 316L stainless steel. It balances defined edges with subtly curved corners, offering a structured look that never feels rigid or harsh on the wrist. The Dial: Features fine decorative textures pulled straight from details within the historic Shanghai building. This is complemented by slender baton markers, neo-classical sword-shaped ...