Food stylish Kirthanaa Naidu on the art of tablescaping and how to elevate any dinner party
Kirthanaa Naidu, a Malaysian food stylist, has gained recognition for her intricate table settings, viewing food as a medium to unite communities. Originally using cooking to share her Malaysian-Indian culture, she transitioned from a career in human rights to food styling during the pandemic.
We speak to her for some tips on tablescaping, where she emphasises the use of existing items at home, incorporating local market produce, and adding fabric variety. She also recommends the Japanese art of flower arrangement, Ikebana, and encourages the mix-and-match approach for plates, advocating for collecting pieces with unique stories, such as vintage finds from travels or antique markets.
Also in this week’s newsletter:
- 5 home makeover tips for the Year of the Dragon
- 7 fitness gyms and studios to try in KL
- CES 2024: Five of the most eye-catching innovations
- Reviving Japan’s kimonos, one shoe at a time
Do check out our all-new digital city guide for Kuala Lumpur for some of our favourite restaurants, cafés, activities and more.
Cheers,
Sim Wie Boon
Digital Editor
HOMES
5 home makeover tips for the Year of the Dragon
An open plan layout encourages vibrant chi (Photo: Ceavs Chua)
Dragons, often associated with darkness in the West, hold positive significance in Chinese culture, symbolising power, authority, luck, and prosperity. As celebrated in Chinese New Year, the upcoming Year of the Wood Dragon promises growth and renewal, fostering positive transformations and new beginnings.
Here are some makeover tips for your home inspired by this auspicious year, providing ideas for a rejuvenating home throughout the year, aligning with the symbolic essence of the Wood Dragon.
MORE FROM HOMES
Take a tour of this charming penthouse in Bangsar, that provides a perfect space for tasteful mid-century aesthetics.
Discover how these iconic chair designs from the mid 20th century are still keeping modernist fans at the edge of their seats.
From Spain to Qatar, here are 5 gorgeous design-led restaurants nestled within the hallowed halls of museums and art galleries worldwide.
LIFESTYLE
7 fitness gyms and studios to try in KL
Defy is located above If Only Restaurant in Kuala Lumpur (Photo: Defy)
With the New Year, a prevalent resolution focuses on initiating or revamping fitness goals, drawing enthusiasts and novices to explore Kuala Lumpur’s vibrant fitness scene. The city provides a range of options, from pulse-raising spin classes to soul-nurturing yoga sessions, catering to seasoned fitness aficionados and beginners alike.
Whether seeking invigorating workouts or a start to a healthier lifestyle, here are some choice gyms to suit your taste.
MORE FROM LIFESTYLE
How Asian talent, voices and lived experiences are reshaping entertainment in Hollywood and beyond
With live translation, generative AI, and a range of models with great design, display, and camera, the Galaxy S24 series is among the top AI smartphones available today.
Dato’ Sri Martin Lui, the founder of Dzi Kingdom and master of Chinese metaphysics, offers insights into the upcoming feng shui period and which Dzi beads will bring good fortune in 2024.
POWER & PURPOSE
CES 2024: Five of the most eye-catching innovations
Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2024 is the world's largest annual consumer technology trade at the Las Vegas Convention Center (Photo: Getty Images)
The Consumer Electronics Show (CES) is the annual technology convention that brings together the biggest, brightest and most innovative minds to Las Vegas. This year, the event took place from January 9 to 14, with more than 130,000 people from 150 countries gathering to witness the latest technologies showcased by some 4,300 exhibitors.
We take a look at some of the highlights, including AI-powered devices, electric and autonomous vehicles, and wearable and implantable gadgets.
MORE FROM POWER & PURPOSE
Industry insiders offer their predictions on the biggest disruptions likely to occur over the next ten years and how to capitalise on these innovations.
The three-time record-breaking powerlifter Farhanna Farid discusses how she discovered her talent in powerlifting by accident and the mental benefits of the sport.
Through mentorship, support and funding, these business whizzes are helping micro, small and medium enterprises remain competitive.
STYLE
Reviving Japan’s kimonos, one shoe at a time
Tokyo Kimono Shoes is founded by Shotaro Kawamura (Photo: Tokyo Kimono Shoes)
Former logistics executive Shotaro Kawamura noticed a decline in Japanese electronics brands and sought to revive Japan’s cultural heritage. He embarked on a mission in October 2022, using discarded kimonos to create bespoke leather sneakers known as Tokyo Kimono Shoes.
With over 2,200 pairs sold globally within a year, each shoe is unique, crafted by artisans with 70 years of shoemaking experience. Kawamura plans to expand the product range, incorporating kimonos into clothing and accessories, aiming to tap into Japan’s rich cultural tapestry and contribute to a sustainable economy.
MORE FROM STYLE
Elevate your lifestyle with the Honor Magic V2, where innovation meets elegance, as experienced by Marion Caunter.
Beloved K-pop idol and actress Jisoo has joined hands with Alo Yoga as the brand’s newest ambassador for spring 2024.
Look your absolute best this Lunar New Year with these limited-edition festive beauty drops.
AROUND ASIA
HONG KONG | Plan a short and sweet trip to these destinations that are just a short flight from Hong Kong.
SINGAPORE | It is never too late to shine the spotlight on these Singaporean fashion brands that have blossomed over the years.
PHILIPPINES | The internationally recognised organisation lays down its plans and priorities for 2024 and introduces Karen Davila as the first Filipina UN Women Goodwill Ambassador.
