EUROPE Ignition

EUROPE Ignition Summer’s here so it’s time to explore other places, DRIVE EXCITING CARS OLD AND NEW, write a letter with a pen that will last a lifetime or buy a special gift to put a smile on the face of a loved one THE INTERIOR WONDER WALLS BELGIUM If you can’t decide which paint colour or wallpaper pattern to use on your next home decorating job, there’s a whole new genre you might not have considered yet – 3D wall coverings. They’re not only striking statements but have practical uses, covering up uneven surfaces and creating good noise insulation. Already a fixture in design-led restaurants they’re now hitting the home market. £229 (€295) per sq m arte-international.com THE EXPERIENCE THE ART OF PERFORMANCE TOUR Kicking off this year, Jaguar is offering a range of incredible driving experiences. Driving on track, competing against others on our all-new Smart Cone course or navigating the roads around your city, this is your opportunity to feel the power and performance of a Jaguar first hand. If you’d like a special driving experience with professional instruction more information will be available soon on jaguar.com THE SURPRISE BOXING CLEVER LONDON English accessories designer Anya Hindmarch has put a unique stamp on the gift box concept. Her Wow Boxes are part luxury keepsakes, part ready-made gift sets catered for 11 different occasions and themes from ‘hen night’ to ‘mid-life crisis’, and each filled with their own corresponding quirky contents. It’s that rare thing – a luxury gift with a sense of humour. From £150 (€193) anyahindmarch.com 8 j THE DESIGN ISSUE

THE STAY COTTON HOUSE HOTEL BARCELONA The airy ceilings and period design are the perfect retreat after a day’s sightseeing. Book a table for lunch on the secluded terrace, have a siesta in the elegantly finished bedrooms and then head to the rooftop plunge pool for a cocktail. £230 (€295) hotelcottonhouse.com THE COLLABORATION MONTBLANC x MARC NEWSON SWITZERLAND Accessories brand Montblanc had never done a collaboration in its 110-year history, but its first, with superstar designer Marc Newson – known for his watches, furniture and even aeroplanes – is worth the wait. The M collection combines Newson’s trademark fluid style and detailing with Montblanc’s tactile craftsmanship. The precious resin-made pens are available in five styles: fountain, rollerball, ballpoint, screenwriter and artfineliner. From £270 (€345) montblanc.com THE DRIVE CLASSIC RACING Jaguar returns to classic racing in 2016 at circuits including Le Mans (July) and the Nürburgring and Oulton Park in August. The Jaguar Classic Challenge sees an array of pre-1966 Jaguars go wheel-to-wheel in the the single marque series in celebration of the brand’s famous wins at Le Mans and more. Drivers wishing to sign up should visit the Historic Sports Car Club website for more information: hscc.org.uk/jaguar-classic-challenge THE DESIGN ISSUE j 9