Almost a century since the opening of its first shop in London, purveyors of fine English footwear Church’s has finally established a boutique in Singapore. You’ll find the lock, stock and barrel of classic footwear and accessories in its store at Ion Orchard, which by nature of its decor almost seems to transport customers back to the polished charm of old-world England.

Artisans have perfected the quality of Church’s footwear since the 1880s, yet the brand’s sense of style remains timeless – no surprise, then, that it is James Bond’s footwear of choice. (On a special visit to Singapore, Master Cobbler David Garfield deconstructed a Church’s shoe to showcase the many components and intricate techniques employed in its manufacture.)

Besides the full selection of classic and seasonal styles, look out for the latest reissue of the brand’s iconic ‘Shanghai’ model. Designed in 1929 for the English colonies, this shoe is artfully broken in, affording it a relaxed yet sophisticated feel. There’s a fair share of footwear for the ladies too, in a range of delectable pastel hues.

There is plenty to contemplate over an aromatic pot of tea. The state of the nation is one. The state of the nation’s youth is another. Or how about promoting awareness of the nation’s history through heritage-inspired artwork? (It could happen.)

Connecting all these disparate topics is a project by Gryphon Tea Company, supported by the National Heritage Board. The laudable aim of the Heritage Art Series initiative is threefold: To provide young local artists with a platform to showcase their work, to reinterpret Singapore history through modern art media, and to strengthen the natural affinities between the nation’s cultural legacy and its people.

Three young talents have been commissioned to create the inaugural series. Tan Wyn-Lyn is a contemporary artist who counts old school Impressionism and Chinese ink painting among her influences. Lee Wai Leng, better known by her professional alias FleeCircus, is a commercial illustrator who fuses organic drawings with digital art. Annette H. is a film graduate whose passion lies in fine art and craftwork.

The completed works of art feature on the packaging of three different blends from Gryphon’s Artisan Tea Collection, in a limited edition run of 2,000 boxes per blend. The launch of a website to extend the reach of the project to a wider audience is also planned.

The Heritage Art Series combines the irresistible draws of fresh art, young talent, nurturing culture and fine teas — and that’s a blend we can all raise a glass, or a steaming cuppa, to.

“These speakers feature the most formidable technology and the least possible materials to deliver maximum effect: that is the magic,” says designer Philippe Starck.

The speakers in question are the Parrot Zikmu – a set of ultra-sleek towers that marry cutting-edge technology and architectural innovation. Created in collaboration with wireless technology specialists, Parrot, these speakers faithfully reproduce your music with nary a wire in sight. Whether it’s from your iPod, computer or mobile phone, integrated Wi-Fi and Bluetooth technologies unleash your tunes in crystal-clear fidelity from a 100W output.

In this case, less is definitely more. The speakers’ minimalist design and elegant curves will fit any space effortlessly. You can also expect flawless sound, regardless of room size and where you position these towers. Incidentally, the Parrot Zikmu was also featured in the music videos of pop stars Lady Gaga and Rihanna. Now, how’s that for cool?