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A tapestry of tales – D Shop

The rich and storied history of Ibiza is woven into the fabric of its architecture, with a tapestry of tales waiting to be discovered in every finca, villa or home on the island. One such story is set within the rustic charm of an iconic 300-year-old farmhouse on the road to Santa Gertrudis – if the walls of D Shop could talk, they’d tell tales worthy of a Hollywood gossip columnist. Fortunately, for clients of Ibiza’s premier source of soft furnishings and upholstery fabrics, discretion has always been part of the service.

The finca – easily identified by its iconic triple-arched white façade and vivid pink Art Deco logo – has been an integral part of the island community for decades, but it was in 1979 when vibrant island personality Chiqui Uruñuela Zunzunegui took the helm that its story began to get more colourful, both literally and figuratively. Chiqui transformed the space into an interior design studio, working her creative magic on the very best homes in Ibiza. Around two decades years later, she handed the business to her equally fabulous daughter Paola Madurga de Uruñuela, who continued to build on her mother’s legacy.

Set within a 300-year-old Ibicencan farmhouse near Santa Gertrudis, D Shop is where sumptuous fabrics and cutting-edge design intertwine.

Fast forward another 25 years, and it became Paola’s turn to pass the design emporium’s baton – along with the legendary D Shop little black book – onto its newest creative custodians, British interior designer Kate Tilbury Cooke and her husband and business partner Damon (and their trusty assistant, Roxy, the island’s most fashionable canine). The pair, never shy of facing a challenge head-on, took over during the maelstrom that was 2020 and just four years later, this family-run business has masterfully taken the D Shop story into its next chapter, while maintaining its reputation as the go-to destination when it comes to Ibiza home design.

Kate’s background as an interior designer in London and New York equips her with the finesse to collaborate effectively with homeowners, architects, and designers alike. While her expertise and natural talent are a cornerstone of the D Shop philosophy, she attributes the store’s continued success and growth to her dedicated team and their commitment to personalised care and exceptional quality. “We do everything from start to finish,” she says. “From the first consultation to measuring, installation and all the detailed touches, including fabrication, which is all done here in Ibiza.”

Visitors to D Shop are invariably mesmerised by the extensive selection of fabric samples on display. Kate’s exquisite taste and discerning eye serve as the ideal guide through the treasure trove of textiles – a stunning variety of fine linens, sumptuous brocades, creamy velvets, vibrant prints, luxurious cashmere and more. “It’s a showroom more than anything else,” she says. “We have the largest selection of fabrics in Ibiza. At last count, there were over 180,000 samples and I’m constantly revising the collection.”

Integrating her own global outlook garnered from frequent travels, Kate is tuned into the desires of her clients and is seeing a slow movement away from the classic soft whites and creams synonymous with Ibiza’s aesthetic. “Off whites and linens will always be elegant but my eyes do light up when someone comes in looking for colour, pattern and a bit of wow factor.” In response, alongside D Shop‘s array of stunning neutrals, you’ll see bouclé in punchy mustards and golds, velvets in deep scarlets and blushing pinks and wools hand dyed in regal purples, washed blues and eye-catching prints.  

New D Shop team member Lou Yellowlees shares a moment with Kate surrounded by a selection of the 180,000 fabric samples on offer. 

Technological innovation has revolutionised the fabric industry, complemented by the D Shop team’s inventive spirit. Pertinent to Ibiza are the advancements in outdoor fabrics. “That’s been really interesting,” says Kate. “The new capabilities with outdoor fabrics are ground-breaking. Some of them are so good people are even using them inside as they resist mould and sun damage, which is often an issue on the island.” Boat grade netting is sewn into the underside of sunbed cushions for enhanced durability during unremitting summers. Motorised blinds are tailored with precision-matched materials for smooth operation and optimal sun defence. Polypropylene carpets mimic the look and feel of natural fibre but can be used outside and easily jet-washed.

Parallel to technological progress is the burgeoning industry-wide commitment to sustainability, a shift that has invigorated Kate and the D Shop team. “Many more eco fabrics are being produced,” she says. “I started with just a few sample books and now I have an entire rail, with many more coming soon. Almost all of our suppliers have launched eco-lines and they have a huge range of applications, from curtains and upholstery to voile and even blackout. They’re absolutely amazing.” Her current favourites include a recycled bouclé in earthy tones and recycled polyester Mallorquin print, versatile enough for both indoor and outdoor use.

A unique collection of hand-picked vintage Moroccan carpets, knotted wall hangings and original artwork complement the soft furnishings on offer.

While curtains, blinds and upholstery are the foundation of any home’s soft furnishings, D Shop also produces custom-made valances, headboards, cushions, wallpapers and a distinctive line of roll-up blinds made from natural materials. Just as their vast range of fabric samples differentiates them from other stores in Ibiza, so too does their collection of made-to-measure carpets, vintage Moroccan rugs and other exquisite items such as handcrafted, knotted wall hangings, opulent beach towels, and original artwork. Kate fosters a dynamic design community through sporadic pop-up collaborations with artisans and artists, both local and international, reinforcing D Shop’s reputation as a nexus of home design.

As the tale of D Shop is woven into the future, the iconic showroom is a place where the aesthetic of Ibiza is both preserved and pushed forward, where timeless elegance coexists with contemporary boldness. Kate and the team don’t simply follow trends, they set them – ensuring that every piece, from the smallest cushion to the largest rug, is delivered on time and with scrupulous attention to detail – transforming a house into a home. As the island begins to stir with the rumblings of an exciting new summer season ahead, now is the time to visit D Shop to infuse your Ibiza home with beauty, functionality, and a touch of the extraordinary.

Global treasure trove – Casa Bedouin

Casa Bedouin is hard to miss, with an authentic Bedouin tent perched on its roof and its striking viridian green storefront beckoning like a tasteful beacon. Located on the road leading towards the sparkling waters of Cala Carbo beach on the south coast of Ibiza, this beautiful interior design store holds untold treasures within and without its walls. Founder Peter Fieret has poured 30 years of design experience into the charming space, filling it with an ever-evolving collection of antique and new furniture, exquisite art, and handmade homewares from across the globe.
 
As you step across the threshold, you may be lucky enough to be greeted by Isla, the furry sales assistant manning the Casa Bedouin floor. Don’t mind her laissez-faire attitude; she’s mostly there as the island’s best-styled dog and, after a yawn, will refer you to her beloved owner, Peter. It’s no coincidence that the various nooks and crannies of the store have the appearance of a glamorous movie set. Peter’s early days in the design industry were spent creating sets and vignettes for films, commercials, and fashion magazines.

Curated by Peter Fieret with a focus on originality, Casa Bedouin is an incredible source for unique and inspired furnishings, fabrics and homewares.

In addition to life on film, he honed his craft through dressing the windows of some of his native Holland’s most beloved department stores before moving on to design boutiques for brands such as Tommy Hilfiger among others. His skills and natural talents have evolved into a distinctive sense of colour, texture, form, and function. The essence of Ibiza is characterised by a harmonious coexistence with nature ­– an ethos that is beautifully embodied on the Casa Bedouin patio.

As a long-time visitor to Ibiza and a permanent resident since 2016, Peter understands that island life is lived differently. “Outdoor living is key in Ibiza,” he says. “Styling those areas of a home is a lot of fun.” At Casa Bedouin you’ll find an ever-changing stage providing endless inspiration. Think earthenware pots filled with juicy succulents, bamboo sunbeds scattered with cushions printed in bold colours and raffia parasols that shade vintage side tables set with whimsical vases. Inside, the vibe is more subdued but just as original.

With a list of contacts spanning decades and continents, Peter delivers a unique vision that blends vintage and antiques with current pieces, traversing cultures from Africa, Latin America, and Europe. Each handpicked item is placed just so, culminating in the store’s signature ambience, with a mood that is very homely, easy-going, and comfortable.  “My style could be described as surprisingly original,” he explains. Peter’s goal with Casa Bedouin is to create spaces that are chic as well as functional, with a message of contentment and tranquillity.

The floor at Casa Bedouin and the many private interior design projects Peter has executed allow a sense of charmed calmness. Every corner of your home is catered for, be it a modern sofa with an ottoman, tribal rugs, traditional and contemporary ceramics, retro tableware and artisanal scented candles, plush handmade lampshades and cushion covers. Each piece is a testament to Peter’s creativity, as vintage and modern fabrics are carefully blended, resulting in one-of-a-kind items. The diverse palette of colours, patterns, and textures ensures there’s something to complement every style.

Each perfectly styled corner, vignette and space at Casa Bedouin is a testament to Peter’s creativity, honed in the worlds of film and fashion.

Distinguishing itself from other interior design stores in Ibiza is the unique partnership Casa Bedouin boasts with a professional tailor located in the same building – an alliance that enables the creation of made-to-measure curtains and other home textiles. Simply choose your material from the exquisite selection of luxury fabrics downstairs, explain your vision – or collaborate with Peter on designing a bespoke look for your home – and let the expert team upstairs stitch your vision into reality.

An artist at heart, Peter has expanded his passion through a collaboration with an old friend who is a photographer by trade. Together they fashion mixed media images depicting details of Ibiza’s ancient traditions, printed onto linen and hung directly on the wall without frames; their ethereal essence and subdued colours are dreamlike and tinged with a gentle rusticity. Handmade and created with an insider’s love for the history of the island, the collection is growing slowly and will, in the future, become a staple part of the Casa Bedouin concept, complementing the store’s stunning collection of tribal art and sculptures.

Whether you’re looking for a complete home transformation, want to breathe new life into a single room or are seeking a statement piece to complement your existing style, you’ll find it within the walls of Casa Bedouin.

Peter, a seasoned interior designer, is also a trusted partner for residential and commercial projects, whether you’re planning a comprehensive home transformation, a room refresh, or simply need to find a special piece to add that final finesse to an office space. His passion for his craft not only radiates within the confines of his remarkable showroom but also defines his design philosophy, where creativity is infused with both joy and professionalism. Exploring Casa Bedouin uncovers an authentic and spirited aesthetic, where every corner reflects Peter’s flair for transforming spaces into genuine works of art.

Bright sparks and bold vision – Concept Installations

It’s no secret that Ibiza is an island filled with extraordinary villas. Some grace the pages of glossy magazines or set the scene for fashion shoots while others are more discreet personal dwellings designed purely for the owners’ personal enjoyment. What these luxury properties have in common however, are advanced technological systems – from cutting-edge home automation and intuitive lighting to incredible sound systems and more. Pioneering it all in Ibiza is Concept Installations, the all-encompassing electrical solutions company founded by highly experienced system integrator, audiophile and self-confessed tech-geek, Robert Cashin.

Far from your average sparky, Robert boasts over 17 years of experience in his field. It was during a fateful visit to Ibiza in 2011 – a trip that was only intended to last one season – that he picked up work as an electrician with a local construction company. He’s never looked back, constantly driven to further his knowledge, training and expertise. “I like to think outside the box,” says Robert, when asked about the inspiration behind Concept Installations. “I’ve participated in so many different projects in Ibiza – it’s given me such a broad outlook and vast experience. The audio side fascinates me too – every project is different, and I enjoy a challenge.”

Boasting over 17 years of experience and a never-ending fascination with technology, Robert Cashin leads the on-island Concept Installations team.

The company’s expansion came about when homeowners were hunkering down and creating sanctuaries during the pandemic. Concept Installations projects grew beyond home illumination and audio into much larger-scale conceptual works that transformed private villas into intelligent and intuitive properties – a shift that allowed Robert to indulge his affinity for discovering the world’s most advanced technologies. Regular visits to trade shows opened countless doors with renowned international brands and suppliers, and at the same time, Robert’s creativity began to flourish and his career continued to soar. “It really opened my eyes to what we could do with homes in Ibiza,” he says.

Today, Concept Installations is made up a team of talented, passionate and multi-lingual system integrators and technical experts who share Robert’s enthusiasm for innovation and implementation, and boasts a purpose-built showroom in the heart of Ibiza that allows clients to immerse themselves in a world of high-tech wonder. Step inside to experience an array of indoor and outdoor speakers and audio options; peruse walls that showcase fittings and fixtures like works of contemporary art; and marvel at the impressive custom-built rack that manages to make cables, connectors, knobs and buttons look like a stylish art installation.

Working with the world’s leading brands in audio, lighting, automation and much more, Concept Installations can design and deliver your dream tech-based projects, from home cinemas to private nightclubs and beyond.

The showstopper within the space is the sound-proofed home cinema room. A three-metre screen dominates one entire wall, opposite an oversized comfy sofa and bar-style seating. A Belgian-made Barco projector (considered the best in the world) is subtly tucked out of sight; 17 speakers with 9.2.4 Dolby surround sound (if you know, you know!) are hidden behind fabric and adjustable lighting sets the ambience – all controlled by one remote. Through tailored screenings that include clips from their favourite TV shows, sports matches and films, Concept Installations‘ clients can experience a total audio-visual immersion into one of the hottest trends for rental villas: a dedicated multi-media room and fully customised home cinema entirely designed to match your needs and style.

With a keen eye for design trends, a deep understanding of Ibiza’s vernacular architecture and intense climate, plus an affinity for interpreting exactly what his clients need, Robert’s own role within the company has evolved from system integrator to project manager and designer. Working in tandem with some of the island’s most renowned architectural, landscaping, and interior design firms, in addition to villa owners and developers, he draws on his vast experience and knowledge to develop sophisticated designs from the ground up. “A house is a collection of so many things,” he explains. “It all needs to work together.” His invaluable input, from concept to completion, ensures each and every Concept Installations project is as aesthetically pleasing as it is functional.

Sourcing fixtures and fittings from all over the world, Concept Installations can customise any project to suit your tastes and home, from mid-century and ultra-modern to rustic farmhouses and sleek apartments.

“It’s still nice to get my screwdrivers out every now again and install things,” Robert says, when contemplating the evolution of his brand. “Especially when pallets with huge boxes of equipment arrive.” Case in point: the impressive 2022 installation of a state-of-the-art C-SEED outdoor television screen that rises majestically from the poolside lawn of a private villa in Ibiza in just 25 seconds. “It was pretty hair-raising after a year of planning,” Robert says. “It had to be crane-lifted into the villa as it weighted 1.6 tonnes. Thankfully it went super smoothly.” It also went viral, with over 16 million views on the Concept Installations Instagram account alone.

What truly makes a Concept Installations project shine is an unwavering quest for perfection. There’s no cutting corners or quick fixes – the brand’s philosophy is all about providing quality and exceptional service. With the entire team based in Ibiza, clients are secure in the knowledge that should an issue arise, the team are on-hand to provide solutions, fast – essential if you’re a villa owner who may only spend a few weeks at a time in Ibiza. “Giving really good service is so important,” says Robert. “I’m always on the other end of the phone, regardless of the time.”

The winter season in Ibiza is when the in-demand Concept Installations team have their work cut out for them, as clients propose improvements to their new or existing homes for the following summer. Garden lighting projects, basement nightclubs, home cinemas, home automations, intricate security systems – everything is within the realms of possibility. All projects start with a discovery call, so Robert can get to know your needs. He cites honesty and transparency as key to managing expectations, delivering the right products, and ensuring the very best results.

As members of CEDIA (Custom Electronic Design & Installation Association), the leading global trade association for smart home technology, the Concept Installations team are also Gold Level Control 4 dealers, KNX partners and Lutron dealers. Each team member has trained extensively with all high-level brands they collaborate with, meaning their rapidly expanding (and loyal) client base can rest assured and trust their expertise every step of the way. “It doesn’t really feel like work to me,” Robert says of his day-to-day involvement in each project. “I take so much pleasure in clients loving what we do. That’s such an important part of running the business – making people happy makes me happy.”

Mastering unconventional spaces – Terravita

For architects, every project presents a unique challenge – something to chew on, workshop and mull over until a solution appears, sometimes as if by magic but more often through (metaphorical) blood, sweat, and tears. For Jason Watson-Todd and his team at Terravita, it’s these challenges that bring the most satisfaction, and this recent project located in San José presented the ideal opportunity to flex their skills and ingenuity.

The couple who purchased the property had already renovated the interiors and were left with a conundrum of peculiar angles, irregular forms, and dead-end voids in the exterior spaces. They knew making a functional outdoor area was going to be an essential component of creating their ideal Ibiza lifestyle, but with such unusual footprints, it would take somewhat of a mastermind to figure it out. This is where Jason and Terravita came in.

Known for an innovative approach to design as well as being Ibiza’s premier eco-conscious architecture and landscaping firm, Terravita has almost 25 years of experience building stunning sustainable homes and gardens across the island. The owners of this villa knew they would be the right choice to create a harmonious and eco-friendly space within the tangled corners of their home’s exterior. Pursuing viable ecological solutions and an outdoor area that encouraged familial connection in addition to providing moments for quite repose was the brief, but the Terravita team weren’t dealing with a neat rectangular block onto which they could impress any number of ideas as with most villas.

On first inspection, the Terravita design team found degraded concrete slabs and the detritus of the home’s renovation scattered within weird angles. This was not a traditional garden, but a series of nooks and crannies that appeared like leftover spaces. “We had to basically turn these odd shapes to our advantage,” says Watson-Todd. “We analysed every square centimetre to figure out how to give a feeling of spaciousness but with privacy and cosiness.”

Watson-Todd began envisioning the outcome through the lens of biophilic design – a concept that connects the occupants of a space with the natural environment. “We try to fuse architecture and nature,” says Watson-Todd. “The idea is to pull the natural elements in and then use materials like woods, clays, rattan, and bamboo to bring contemporary warmth.” In keeping with the Terravita ethos, every aspect of the design and construction adhered to strict environmental protocols.

Beautiful ashy-brown bamboo decking was laid just above the ground to protect the roots of existing trees. Not only is this material a good environmental choice, but it’s almost as strong as steel, and much less cumbersome to care for than teak. Micro-cement has been selected and mixed with natural materials to produce a pleasing texture against bare feet. Clay and rattan accents appear against traditional Ibizan whitewash, and cushions come in an array of jute, linen, and cotton. Of course, in signature Terravita style, solar lighting is employed throughout, casting golden shadows as stars appear in the sky.

The pool fits neatly alongside a stone terrace on one side and seems to disappear into the fence on the other. An elongated built-in lounge is saturated in sunlight, wooden steps are flanked by textured earthen pots, and a cosy patio is enclosed with wood slats tinted a shade of burnt cinnamon. Surprisingly, there’s also a spacious alfresco dining area with a full kitchen, Ofyr grill, and a cantilevered steel dining table. “We wanted to give a feeling of expansion, to find that balance between opening things out and feeling protected,” says Watson-Todd. “When you’re inside the garden, you literally have a microclimate.”

Every aspect of the family’s life was considered in the design, even down to the way they store their surfboards (yes, even in Ibiza!). “They’re in the parking area, and the way we did it makes the boards look like they’re framed,” says Watson-Todd. “It was great fun. I love small spaces because you really have to stretch your creativity.” As with any architectural project, the proof is in the living, and the family has completely fallen in love with their new home. With each unique corner and intricate detail designed by Terravita, these spaces demonstrate the art of reimagining the unconventional into a seamless fusion of nature, comfort, privacy, and style.

The art of living beautifully

For Virginie Biron, founder of chic homeware store, Siempre Ibiza, objects are more than just things to be unceremoniously plonked in the corner of a room, never to be seen or contemplated. Rather, they are mementos from a particular moment in time that root us to the present. Keepsakes infused with distinct meanings of their own, they possess an innate power to transform a space from mundane into vivid, and in the process, stoke conversations that reveal things about us — where we’ve been, where we hope to go, and what’s important in our lives.

It’s with this concept in mind that Siempre Ibiza was born and it’s visible in every carefully curated angle of the Santa Gertrudis store, where objects sourced from around the globe tussle for space on the well-stacked shelves and every vignette tells a story. It’s no exaggeration to say Virginie traverses land and sea in pursuit of the perfect items to showcase, always searching for beautifully made objects and furniture that not only appease her personal tastes but also reflect an unmistakably Ibizan approach to living. “My passion is to find unique pieces for unique people,” she explains. And where better to base such an endeavour than Ibiza?

Virginie relocated to the island alongside her partner in 2019. Formerly the pair lived in France, where they owned and ran restaurants, and Virginie would plough her energies into bringing alive their different characters through decor. But on a quest for more freedom, their compass landed on the white isle, where the couple had spent sun-soaked summers visiting family, and now they live in the vibrant Ibiza campo surrounded by olive groves, from which Virginie’s husband creates the organic Finca Verde olive oil that’s sold exclusively at Siempre Ibiza, and she is afforded the flexibility to focus on her true passions.

“I always had an affinity for decorating our restaurants,” she explains from in front of a tumble of textiles within the store. “So, it made sense that eventually I would expand into home decoration.” Siempre Ibiza encapsulates that desire, becoming a showroom for pieces that Virginie has handpicked to suit Ibiza living, as well as a space in which islanders can visit for styling advice and suggestions. “When I meet people, I intuitively get a sense of what they’re going to like,” she smiles. “It’s like a special kind of vision.”

The store is reached by following one of the paved tributaries that funnels from the pretty main square in Santa Gertrudis to its end. There sits Siempre Ibiza, with an unassuming façade shaded by coconut-fibre canopies (that can be made to order) and that belies the treasures within. Virginie is present every Monday to Saturday, alongside dedicated store assistant Lotus, an adopted Ibicenca who knows the island’s style and aesthetic inside out and is always a huge help to customers. Both are on hand to discuss the bounty that’s housed within the store’s walls, because every item has been on a journey to reach this point.

Indeed, Virginie has roamed the world’s most diverse landscapes in search of the perfect items to line the Siempre Ibiza walls, shelves and corners. Venturing to India, South America and beyond, and then returning to collect objects from closer to home, what’s displayed in store provides a snippet of her vision for Ibiza living that’s been informed by her past. Take the jet-black La Chamba kitchenware sourced from Colombia, for instance. Made from a special kind of clay that retains heat and moisture, it enables a slow, balanced cooking process that prevents ingredients from drying out — a surefire nod to her history working in the restaurant industry.

Then there are the stunning set pieces visible on each table. Adorned with vintage glassware in gem-coloured shades, as well as cutlery and crockery that’s been diligently picked up from flea markets dotted around France, Virginie’s knack for dressing the spaces within Siempre Ibiza has been keenly carried forward from her days designing restaurants. It’s evocative to the point that you can picture yourself here hosting a feast, serving lovingly made plates of food to friends and family, deep in conversation about life’s twists and turns. And that’s before you’ve even taken any of it home.  

Elsewhere, and there are lavish soft furnishings from cult French brand Caravan, handwoven carpets from Morocco, intricate ceramics from Tunisia, lighting from Denmark and Mozambique, and candles made in Ibiza. Statement pieces include vintage chairs, chunky dining tables and sofas that can be measured up and made to order. It’s a standout collection that embodies colour, character and style, but more than that, it’s an ode to the concept of quiet luxury, which these days favours comfort over ostentation, and contemplation over flashiness — something Siempre Ibiza excels in.

Virginie’s intuitive approach to styling is to thank for the understated comfort that settles within the walls of Siempre Ibiza, and it’s why she extends her services to include personal home consultations. Her unrivalled skill lies in sussing out customers’ Ibiza living style, before going on to make stunningly accurate suggestions for their home. Offering the fresh perspective on interiors that’s distinguishable in-store, she’s able to transform homes, villas and casitas into havens peppered with intriguing items that complement different lifestyles. “I want each piece to become a talking point,” she explains. “To invite comment and thought.”

While in Ibiza, head to Santa Gertrudis and take a few minutes to soak up the ambience at the store. Tune into the laid-back soundtrack, browse the exquisitely curated displays and just for a moment, be transported elsewhere in the world. Perhaps you purchase something for your Ibiza villa, or maybe you’re visiting the island and you fall in love with a piece that you simply have to have shipped home. The magic of this store is its innate understanding of how the people, ideas, and objects that surround us are what makes a home. The foundations are built at Siempre Ibiza.

TEDxDaltVila – Pushing boundaries, sharing ideas, expanding perceptions

Sometime in 1984 in a cheap hotel ballroom in Monterey, California, a bunch of geeks got together to listen to each other talk about ‘stuff’. Specifically, technology, entertainment and design – that is to say, TED. That very first TED Talk included, among other things, a demonstration of a compact disc and a young guy called Steve Jobs schlepping a weighty beige box he called a Macintosh. TED (and its community subsidiary TEDx) has grown into a multinational, polylingual, cultural phenomenon. And now, thanks to a dedicated team of volunteers, the very first full-day Ibiza TEDx event, TEDxDaltVila, will be held on Wednesday March 29, 2023 at Can Ventosa in the heart of the island’s capital. 

The theme for TEDxDaltVila is Expanding Perspectives and much like the motivation behind the original TED event, the mission is to challenge the status quo and push the Ibiza community to shift viewpoints and look beyond conventional wisdom. There are selected speakers lined up for the inaugural one-day event – each presenting their ideas, inventions and thoughts in short, concise and captivating presentations. The unwavering drive of lead organiser Mia Kirn, along with a team of highly motivated local volunteers, has led to the development of a multisensory event that’s likely to become an annual fixture on the island’s calendar. 

Long-term Ibiza lover and full-time resident Mia Kirn is the driving force behind the first full-time multi-sensory TEDxDaltVila event in Ibiza on Wednesday March 29, 2023.

Mia’s relationship with Ibiza began through her parent’s love of the island. Conceived in Ibiza and raised all over the world, Mia has visited Ibiza every year of her life. Her parents have been based in San Carlos for decades, and with her own family visits to the island becoming more frequent, it made sense for Mia and her husband to buy a house across the street ten years ago – a place to call home during extended stays with their children. Then, in 2020, the world changed, and so Mia gave up her professional career and the family relocated to the safety of their beloved island home permanently – a sacrifice scattered with silver linings. “Even though I love Ibiza and moving here was the best thing to do, I was sad to leave my job behind,” she admits.

Mia had spent much of her professional life in documentary programming for the likes of Al Jazeera and producing large-scale, televised events before transferring those same skills to an educational non-profit centred around climate change. As she went about her new day-to-day island life, she felt driven to find a new purpose here. Like all parents in Ibiza, Mia experienced the relentless ferrying of children around the island, and it was on those trips up and down dusty caminos that she found her next calling. “I literally went through the whole TED Spotify playlist in the car,” she laughs. “I started to get curious. What would it mean to host a TEDx? I looked over the TED website and realised I could do this in Ibiza.”

Every TED event must have an overarching theme and with hundreds of hours of listening under her belt, Mia knew her theme had to be broad but also related to the issues Ibiza faces as a growing year-round community and tourist destination. Landing on the concept of Expanding Perspectives for the first TEDxDaltVila was quite straightforward – after all, Mia is not the first Ibiza resident to feel like the island is transitioning yet again, shedding its hedonistic image and becoming a place with more substance. “At the beginning, the audience might not understand why each speaker is there but by the end, the thread that binds them all together will be obvious,” she says. 

Among the contributors taking to the TEDxDaltVila stage are Jorge Ferrer – a professor of psychology, relationships counsellor, educator and author of six books. Marina Magdalena, who helps young people explore their creativity while learning real-world skills, sits alongside fashion designer Neliana Fuenmayor, who is dedicated to promoting transparency and sustainable innovation in the garment industry. Pablo Vidarte is an entrepreneur turning plants into biological batteries. There’s sex coach Ruth Ramsay and novelist and playwright Ben Dunwell… and the list continues. 

Mia formed a Speakers Committee to help define the parameters of the TEDxDaltVila theme, assess applications from the public and invite candidates from their own networks. “TED tells you not to look for the speaker but to look for the idea,” she explains. “You have to ask – does this person have something really valuable to share? We were looking for fresh ideas or new perspectives on existing ideas and issues.” There’s no room for self-promotion at a TEDx talk – it’s not about selling more books or tickets to your workshops. Anyone can become a speaker – even if they don’t have public speaking experience – because the TED system is designed to elevate presentations to the level we’re all used to watching on YouTube.  

First, there’s the fact-checking. Speakers must provide extensive drafts of their script with detailed citations. Any study quoted, any factoid, data or date is rigorously checked for authenticity. Then there are countless hours of videotaped rehearsals. The TEDxDaltVila team includes a trained and experienced actor in the role of dramaturge, helping speakers harness their cadence and pace while also training them to stop touching their faces or looking at the floor during their speech. “It’s not a corporate presentation,” explains Mia. “A TEDx talk is a performance. You have to entertain your audience.” And at TEDxDaltVila, it’s not just the speakers who’ll be doing the entertaining. 

The TEDxDaltVila Speakers committee have been dedicated to looking for fresh ideas and new perspectives on existing ideas and issues for this unique event.

For those who have never attended a TEDx event, there is a whole lot more to it than the series of illuminating yet precise talks. It’s a multi-layered gathering that includes an immersive audience experience. From the music you hear and the scents you smell to the goodies you receive (yes! TEDxDaltVila attendees will receive goodie bags!) and the activities on offer during break times, all of it has been carefully and thoughtfully orchestrated. “Three events are happening simultaneously,” says Mia. “The live event in the theatre with speakers and musical performances. There’s also the audience experience, which happens in the breaks, where people will have the chance to network, see new inventions and participate in games. And then, everything is filmed with a full production crew to be uploaded to the TED website.” 

TEDxDaltVila, with its new ideas and inclusive structure (all TEDx events are not-for-profit), is reflective of a wider change in Ibiza, a change that has been developing for years. After decades of exploitation, people are now more interested in protection than profit and the consensus is one of careful optimism towards an Ibiza that not only survives, but thrives. 

A life and home less ordinary – Heritage 53

With the arrival of the new year comes new hopes, new dreams and for many homeowners – especially here in Ibiza – new home decoration. While the pandemic is now firmly in our rear-view mirrors, one element that remains irrevocably changed is the desire to seek comfort, beauty and quality within our own living spaces. Enter Heritage 53, a high-end interiors website and consultancy service founded by Sophie Lee – a long-term Ibiza dweller whose personal journey led her to a passion for décor infused with colour and joy.

Heritage 53 is a twist on tradition; an ultra-luxe online shopping and interiors consultation service that takes the stress and uncertainty out of investing in statement pieces for your home. This is the new Ibiza style – for the bold, for the brave, for the renegades and the outliers. Those who wish to feel joy when stepping into every room in their home; those who wish to use furniture and décor as conversation starters; and those who’ve eschewed all-white, sterile decor or cookie cutter Buddhas and wicker furniture imported from Bali. While the initial idea stemmed from Sophie’s penchant for velvet-upholstery and vintage pieces with character and colour, the emotional connection felt by her customers when introduced to the Heritage 53 concept was palpable.

Sophie Lee is the island-based entrepreneur and interiors expert behind this innovative new online shopping and consultation service.

Sophie’s journey to the world of Ibiza style was ‘written in the sand’, as her Granny Boo liked to say. As a child in the 1970s, she grew up in an eclectic manor house in Hollowell in England, playing games and dreaming up scenarios that today’s youth would rarely know existed thanks to screen time and the internet. Surrounded by centuries-old tapestry-strung walls, art, antiquities, and mid-century furniture, her imagination ran wild and she was encouraged to live a life less ordinary, This was all thanks to her adventurous father, Humphrey Jones, who’d broken free from the humdrum of society in the early 1950s. It was 1953, to be precise – hence the name Heritage 53 – when he set sail for a magical Mediterranean island that beckoned the creatives, the free-thinkers, the bohemians and libertines. Those who transformed Ibiza into the island we know today.

Of course, this was well before Sophie was born but such traits are inherited and it was inevitable the young Sophie would also become entranced by the island her father so loved. She relocated to the white isle more than 25 years ago, where she created a home, raised a family, and set up a successful business, Ibiza Chair Company. As the island’s burgeoning wedding industry skyrocketed, Sophie rented luxury chairs (and eventually much more) to wedding venues and villas. Fast forward to 2020 however, and the wedding industry in Ibiza was put on hold due to the global restrictions on travel and group gatherings. It was at this point, her natural entrepreneurial instincts kicked in once again and Heritage 53 was born.

Islanders were forced to spend lengthy periods of times in their homes – whether small fincas and apartments or A-list style super-villas – while droves of people left the city and relocated to Ibiza for freedom and fresh air. One thing became abundantly clear to Sophie. Home was not only where the heart was, it was now also the centre of our universe. It needed to become somewhere that embodied our personalities while satisfying the practicalities of life – not just a place to lay our heads at night. And so, with Heritage 53, Sophie turned her unique eye for style and incredible attention to detail to helping friends and clients elevate their homes, helping them express themselves through single statement pieces or redecorating rooms or even entire villas.

Your experience starts online, where Sophie’s carefully curated selection of pieces from some of the world’s most luxurious, vanguard and creative brands (more on those later) can be viewed all in one easy place. From luxe lounge chairs, oversized benches, and elegant dining chairs to all styles of tables, chic bedroom furnishings, statement mirrors, incredible rugs, creative children’s furniture and décor, stylish work-from-home set-ups and more, there is everything you could possibly need for life on the white isle. And if you don’t see what you’re looking for on the site, that’s not a problem at all. Heritage 53 can source whatever you’re dreaming of, and even have bespoke pieces custom made.

For anyone who feels unsure about shopping online for luxury furniture, Sophie has thoroughly vetted all of the Heritage 53 brands and offers what she calls a ‘White Glove Service’. This means all pieces are delivered directly to the Heritage 53 warehouse, personally inspected by Sophie, and then delivered in person to your home by her team. The love and care that goes into the sourcing, buying and ordering products for Heritage 53 by Sophie is like it is for her own home – such is her passion for her work. In Ibiza, where physical furniture stores are few and far between with limited basic stock, this is a godsend!

For those who don’t necessarily have the confidence to mix and match from the website, but also don’t need to engage an interior designer, Sophie also offers private consultations (in Ibiza only), where she comes directly to your home with a selection of catalogues that showcase far more than the pieces selected for the Heritage 53 website. She digs deeper into your style, lifestyle, taste and desires, in addition to understanding the architecture and layout of your home and can curate a selection completely tailored to you. She also works with high-end estate agents and their clients to completely decorate new homes on the island.

What gives Heritage 53 a competitive and creative edge is the calibre of brands available. There’s Gufrum, a radical 1960s design house known for its Pop Art influenced pieces and the iconic BOCCA lips sofa; and Missoni Home – the legendary Italian design house’s homewares division, with its famed zigzag and multicolour patterns bringing vibrant colour combinations into the home, whether through sofas, armchairs, side tables and even beds. Reda Amalou is one of Sophie’s personal favourites, a French architect whose beautiful interpretations of classic mid-century pieces is like a masterclass in design. And then there’s Imperfetto Lab, a family-run brand that treats home decoration like a fantastical experiment, from lighting and seating to tables and shelves.

Other standouts include Edelgrund, who create extraordinary rugs made by Persian artisans using hand-spun wool, organic fibres and coloured with vegetable dyes, made with a Fair-Trade philosophy. Objectkto is a visionary French-Brazilian brand designed for connoisseurs of modernist architecture, with pieces that convey emotion, inspire imagination and push the boundaries of modern design – these are chairs that are like works of art, yet designed to be used and enjoyed for decades. And of course, there’s Thonet – the bohemian chairs that none other than Le Corbusier declared: ‘Never was a better and more elegant design and a more precisely crafted and practical item created.’

And that’s just the start. There are around 30 brands (and thousands of pieces) currently listed online, with new designers added regularly, plus a handful of exclusive high-end suppliers that Sophie works with behind-the-scenes. While all brands are completely unique, each can be combined to create spaces that are simply unforgettable and a pure joy to live in. Rich woods, bright colours, luxurious textures, exceptional upholstery, and timeless or whimsical designs simply ‘pop’ when juxtaposed against the all-white of Ibiza luxury villa or traditional finca walls and all pieces have been designed to stand the test of time. Speaking of which, there’s no better time than the new year to embark on a journey of elevating your home décor before the summer season is upon us, and there’s no finer supplier of luxury furnishings in Ibiza than Heritage 53.

High-end Ibiza homes for sale

Extraordinary first line villa in prestigious south coast location 

Located on the first line of a prestigious south coast bay, this extraordinary new-build villa boasts impressive views across the peninsula of Porroig, all the way over to the island of Formentera. Conceptualised by renowned Spanish firm De Castro Arquitectos, the contemporary design utilises large, open living spaces, floor-to-ceiling and vast exterior terraces to blur the lines between indoor and outdoor living. The six stylish and spacious bedrooms are oriented towards the breathtaking views, while the sleek infinity pool is the property’s show-stopping centrepiece. A private entrance to a nearby beach plus a pontoon for boat tendering makes this high-end home the perfect Ibiza summer sanctuary.

Architectural gem in the exclusive Vista Alegre community 

Designed by the architectural masterminds at De Castro Arquitectos, this stunning new-build home in the gated community of Vista Alegre is the epitome of haute living in Ibiza. Geometry imbued with curves, natural materials matched with innovation, and vistas that take in the blues of the Mediterranean Sea and the greens of the surrounding forest imbue the six-bedroom property with a sense of composed sophistication and timeless elegance. Wake up to views of Formentera, take your laps in the incredible infinity pool, feel safe with 24/7 security and live life in complete luxury thanks to the highest quality finishes throughout each of the spaces. Construction has recently begun – invest now to enjoy next summer.

High-spec Roca Llisa villa overlooking the golf course

Located within a small enclave of luxurious villas in Roca Llisa, this gorgeous four-bedroom design home is surrounded by pine-filled hills and boasts stunning views of the island’s one and only golf course and the surrounding hills. Traditional touches such as exposed stone and whitewashed details are exquisitely blended with the latest technology and high-spec fittings and fixtures, while spaces have been designed to harness natural sunlight and maximise the vistas. The safe and secure residential community is one of Ibiza’s most in-demand neighbourhoods – immersed in nature yet with easy access to Santa Eulalia, Ibiza town and numerous beaches, the vibe is easy-going luxury, all year round. 

South-facing design villa with breathtaking Mediterranean Sea views

Set within the luxurious and secure Vista Alegre urbanisation, this contemporary six-bedroom villa is south-facing, with panoramic views of Las Salinas, Formentera and the azure Mediterranean Sea. Impeccable design and the finest quality materials teamed with high-end fittings and appliances throughout the newly built home ensure a luxurious standard of year-round living. The sun-drenched terraces, pool deck and impressive rooftop terrace with alfresco kitchen are ideal for entertaining in summer, while the outdoor living area with firepit is perfect for winter days. Just a short drive from the charming village of Es Cubells and many of the island’s best beaches, this is a magnificent property with universal appeal.

Conscious creativity

A child’s creativity knows no limits. Kids have a natural instinct to learn and discover new things, without any of the judgement or fear that comes with age. Once we become adults, we may feel shy about trying something new, or scared that we’ll make a mistake, but children just throw themselves in to any new experience with freedom and confidence. Instead of holding back, we should be following the leads of our little ones, and with the recent opening of Numero 74 L’Atelier in the centre of Santa Gertrudis, Ibiza families now have a place to come together over new skills, tasty healthy food and endless creativity, inspiring each other in the process.

The bright, airy and open Numero 74 L’Atelier space includes a yoga deck overlooking the village playground, an urban garden growing fruit and vegetables for the kitchen, a buffet-style cafe and juice bar serving breakfast (from 9.30am), brunch and dinner, plus a stylish store selling pieces from the renowned Numero 74 collections, from organic cotton cushion covers and duvets to stylish and chic boho fashion and charming olde world style soft toys. Around the boutique and restaurant, weaving looms, embroidery kits and even a rustic miniature market provide the perfect places for children to play, while their parents are enjoying a meal, a yoga class or browsing in the boutique.

Parisian founder of Numero 74 L’Atelier, Tara Sfez – known to her loved ones, friends and colleagues as Poupy – is an inspiring entrepreneur with a background in children’s events, including working with Disneyland Paris, and running restaurants and working in sustainable fashion. Her vision to create a space where families can take part in workshops, experience healthy food and connect with one another, is part of a much larger dream. “We believe this project can open in cities all around the world,” she explains, when talking about the inspiration for the flagship Numero 74 L’Atelier concept in Ibiza. “It’s a place for sharing family moments, a place to discover, and also a place to provide work for locals.”

Tara’s connection to Ibiza comes from spending summer holidays here, getting to know the true essence of the island and understanding the freedom and magic that comes along with its authentic lifestyle. Introducing her creative passions to the island was the logical next step. Tara created the Numero 74 brand in 2009, and today the label produces over 5000 pieces for retail, from blankets and clothing to toys and creative kits for adults or children. Everything is made from organic cotton, sourced in Sri Lanka and then woven, cut and prepared in Thailand, using a simple palette of colours that has never changed since the brand’s inception. “Our speciality is really the colours,” she says. “We don’t follow the trend for creating new collections every season – we have our basic products that have been the same since the beginning. I’m a very faithful person, when I love something, I love it forever, so that is our belief with Numero 74 L’Atelier

Nowhere is that faith and love more evident than in the story of how Numero 74 L’Atelier founder Tara’s relationship with Thailand began. After her son was born prematurely, he suffered from medical problems and animals became a great support for him. When he was two years old, on a trip to the East, he met a baby elephant called Duna and fell in love. Tara promised to take her son back every year to visit his elephant, and made good on that promise, returning to Chiang Mai every year. Her son is now 20 years old and studying to be a vet – he’s also still great friends with Duna.

Thanks to this ongoing love story, the family business has grown from there. “After visiting Thailand as much as possible to see Duna, I had a big wish to work with the Thai people – I felt that they had a lot to teach us,” Tara explains. “Over time, we met a tuk-tuk driver who took us to see the elephant every day. He was amazing, so I asked if he could help us find some women to work for us, to support us and make our product.” Fast forward ten years, and that same tuk-tuk driver is now Tara’s business partner, managing a team of over 400 women, working from home to prepare the fabric, weave the cotton and cut the pieces ready to send to Europe. This ethical and sustainable development is at the heart of what Numero 74 L’Atelier stands for.

After selling online and via wholesale for many years, this pilot project in Santa Gertrudis is the first opportunity for Tara and the Numero 74 L’Atelier team to meet their customers face-to-face. “I realised that something was missing,” says Tara on reflection of the brand’s evolution. “I began to feel it wasn’t meaningful enough, and I realised that I had this dream of a place where we could invite people to discover that they too can be creative. To be creative is the way to heal ourselves, and consequently, to heal the world.” In addition to offering creative workshops for all ages, Numero 74 L’Atelier sells take-away kits you can work on home, from delicate pocket purses to giant wall posters – there’s something for everyone to create.

Through the daily craft or body workshops at Numero 74 L’Atelier, children and adults alike can reconnect, as families and friends. Through weaving, macrame, acro-yoga and a huge variety of other activities, they find pleasure in the art of making something new with their own hands or bodies. Guests enter into the kitchen to taste fresh and authentic homemade food – there are already plans afoot to host after-school cooking classes in the autumn months, adding yet another string to their creative bow. All of the products in the store are sustainable, and ethically sourced, from the weaving loom made of reclaimed wood from houses in Thailand, to the cherry tomatoes growing in pots on the terrace. Authenticity, heart and soul sit at the very foundation of this special and unique place – just step right in and find out how creative you can really be.

Welcome to the club

Every child has a fantasy of a top-secret clubhouse. It might be in the branches of a tree or concealed behind a secret door at the back of a cupboard – it’s one of those long lasting childhood dreams that tend to follow into adulthood. Even grown-ups need a place to hang out and get up to mischief. For Ibiza’s kids and kids at heart, this dream comes true in the shape of the Sabina Clubhouse. Located within the luxe 50-villa Sabina residential complex near Cala Tarida, this beautifully designed mecca of fun contains all the essential elements for little and big folk alike.

Renowned local architect Rolf Blakstad was enlisted to design the Sabina Clubhouse and his brief was suitably esoteric; the result is a mix between the divine and the sublime. Developer Anton Bilton told Blakstad to create the palace of a long lost Phoenician princess who walks the halls and terraces in flowing robes. “The style is faded grandeur,” says Bilton. “It’s understated. The Clubhouse is the soul of the community and we want people to walk in and feel immediately at home.” Blakstad’s signature style is evidenced throughout the architecture with expansive light wells streaming sunlight onto stone floors, broad wood beams and melodic water features.

“I designed the Sabina Clubhouse to encompass summer and winter,” says Blakstad. “In the winter, it’s all about making the space feel warm and welcoming and in the summer, it’s about enjoying the sunshine.” The reception opens towards a curved bar and dining area; the space is flooded in natural light. A curvaceous sofa wraps around a huge fireplace where blond wood bookshelves are stacked with beautiful objects and intriguing publications. Beyond is the enormous pool, framed by a series of square columns supporting wood pergolas. Patios on either side house daybeds, sofas and little nooks for private conversation over a pot of tea or an icy cold drink. The outdoor dining and kitchen area acts as a magnet for shared meals and summertime get-togethers.

The shadow of the Phoenician princess can be spotted across the elegant expanse with the dense, green forest of the surrounding hills as a foil for the gentle whites, woods and blues of the interiors. Barcelona based interior designer Lázaro Rosa-Violán has created a mood that takes the fictional princess’ grace and crosses it with hints of Deco and post-colonial chic. The palette is smooth and fresh; the textures are varied, from velvets and wicker to stone. In addition to the more communal spaces, the Sabina Clubhouse boasts a wine cellar where residents can store their own collection for use at the restaurant or in the private dining room. There’s also a smoking room, library and gym but the spa will no doubt become a focal point with its sauna, Jacuzzi, Hammam and two treatment rooms. The final piece in the fun-puzzle is a dedicated private nightclub, which Bilton describes as very laid-back and uncommercial, a place to forge the friendships made with the people you met earlier in the day by the pool or at the restaurant.

The exterior area of the Sabina Clubhouse centres on the amphitheatre where Bilton envisages outdoor cinema nights, lectures, workshops and sun-dappled yoga. Nearby is a non-denominational chapel, a labour of love that conveys Bilton’s idea of the spirituality of inclusion. “It doesn’t have a name, but I call it the Temple of Gratitude,” says Bilton. “It’s not at all about religion. I wanted a space where people could come for contemplation, connection and celebration.” Blakstad took the Pantheon as his prime inspiration for the design, creating a dual space. “There’s an area that is sunken, private and quiet. You literally go down into it as if you are going into yourself,” says Blakstad. “The other area is open and public. This is the place for celebration.”

Despite the sophistication of the architecture, design and facilities for adults, one can’t help but think the real purpose behind the Sabina Clubhouse are children. “I’ve got five kids,” says Bilton. “I wanted to make a space where kids were allowed to be free and roam and play without limitations. Really, it’s all about them.” Of course, the pool will feature heavily in the summer but beyond the amphitheatre is a series of rooms whose sole purpose is to delight little people. A dedicated playroom for the younger ones is filled with toys and books while the older ones enjoy the full-size bowling alley. Bilton has plans for silent movie nights with headphones, games, parties and a lot of good-humoured shenanigans. “The idea is that the kids get to be kids,” says Bilton. “And the adults can relax knowing they are safe and having fun.”

Bilton is all too aware of the realities of travelling with kids and aims to limit the amount of time parents have to spend in the car shuttling their offspring from one activity to the next. He can see that Ibiza has evolved and is attracting people looking for a different kind of life, one that is less about clubbing and more about friends and family. Yet, at the same time, he recognises the need for kids to have their autonomy and parents to get some free time. Spain is famous for having a respect for childhood unlike any other country and Sabina and its Clubhouse takes that idea to a whole new level.

The Sabina Clubhouse is the nexus of the development and the culmination of Bilton’s vision to build a community of connected, like-minded people, living and gathering in spaces created by his favourite architects and designers from across the globe. It’s an ambitious project, encompassing design, art and lifestyle in a way never done before. The project is well fitted to Ibiza, where freedom and beauty are always at the forefront of island life. The Sabina Clubhouse is set to become an island emblem and a destination for a new kind of Ibiza visitor and resident.

Visit the Sabina Estates website to read more about the Sabina Clubhouse