SUMMER 2020
BRANDT PROJECTS
luxury kitchen & lifestyle living
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Welcome to the very first edition of Brandt Projects magazine. A new magazine, written specifically for you - our trade community, has caused much excitement with the team here at Brandt and we sincerely hope you like it as much as we do. There is a feeling of fresh optimism generally as countries begin to open up again from the lockdown measures imposed by governments globally to curtail the threat from COVID-19 and none more so than here at Brandt. The launch of Brandt Projects magazine is just one of a number of exciting initiatives that we have recently initiated, some of which you will see within the editorial content of this magazine. We intend to publish this magazine twice yearly so if you have any constructive criticism, or suggestions on how we may improve it for future issues, please feel free to contact us. To those readers who are already Brandt customers, thank you for your support and loyalty; and for those who aren’t, I hope this magazine helps convince you to enquire how we can help you with future projects. Enjoy ‌ Scott Managing Director
CASE STUDY WHITE HORSE CLOSE
pages 4-6
BESPOKE STONE FABRICATION
page 8
NEW IN-HOUSE ARCHITECTS FACILITY
page 9
PORTFOLIO
pages 10-15 PROFILE
pages 16-17 EUROPE’S PROPERTY MARKET
page 18 -23
CASE STUDY EXCHANGE SQUARE
page 24-26
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CASE STUDY | WHITE HORSE CLOSE
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WHITE HORSE CLOSE Back Story The White Horse Hotel was a failing business, and the site was acquired by Sandhill Homes, a residential developer. Waller Planning were employed, with Bryant and Moore Architects, to seek planning permission for the redevelopment of the rear part of the site for housing, whilst the Grade II listed hotel building was to be refurbished. The site lies in the Green Belt, where new development is generally restricted. Officers initially objected to any more than a maximum of six modest-sized terraced houses to the rear of the hotel. Officers also advised that these houses should be focussed only on the part of the site which already contained buildings. Working closely with Officers and the Architect, an agreement was reached over a suitable design for the houses, given their
proximity to the listed building and within a conservation area. Property description Set in the heart of the village of Hertingfordbury and with elevated views across open fields, the townhouses have a traditional brick facade, to blend in with the surrounding period properties. Each home is arranged over four floors, with flexible layouts to suit the needs of contemporary living. The generously sized rooms have high
CASE STUDY | WHITE HORSE CLOSE
ceilings and handsome traditional sash windows. In addition to the eight townhouses, the Close also includes an unusually large and stylish two-bedroom detached home. The Close is set behind electric gates and has secure undercroft parking. Location With its mix of pretty period cottages and more substantial homes, Hertingfordbury is an affluent village highly
desired by house-buyers attracted by the rural lifestyle and sense of community. Intrinsic in the village community is The White Horse Hotel, from which the development takes its name. The boutique hotel and pub has recently been refurbished and is under new management. The Kitchen Supplied and fitted by Brandt Design. Brandt Projects Manager, John Smith commented. “White Horse Close is a small and exclusive
development with a unique back story due to the renovation of the boutique pub that shares the land with the location. The homes themselves were thoughtfully created by the architect and we therefore felt, as we do with every project that we undertake, that the kitchen for each dwelling deserved to be treated as its own entity, although of course a design theme ran through every kitchen within the entire development.”
Products • High gloss lacquer kitchen • Porcelain work surfaces • Siemens integrated fridge/freezer • Separate utility with units and sink • Miele integrated dishwasher • Miele oven • Miele combination microwave • Miele induction hob • Miele integrated extractor hood • Reginox Texas sink • Miele tall wine cooler • Miele coffee machine and warming drawer • Zip Celsius Arc in brushed nickel hot tap
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CASE STUDY | WHITE HORSE CLOSE
Architect: Bryant + Moore Architects, 19-25 Salisbury Square, Hatfield, Hertfordshire, AL9 5BT t: 01707 251428 | w: www.bryantandmoore.co.uk Developer: Sandhill Homes Ltd, Charlton Mead Ln, Hoddesdon EN11 0DJ t: 01992 464841 | w: www.sandhillhomes.co.uk Agent: Ashtons Estate Agents, 29 Wigmores North, Welwyn Garden City, Herts t: 01707 903456 | w: www.ashtons.co.uk
The real estate industry is changing.
Y O U R T I M E M AY BE LIMITED. YOUR MARKET A C C E S S I S N O T.
The role of an astute buying agent has become synonymous with securing your dream property at the best terms. Being expertly represented is invaluable. A skilled buying agent will save you both time and money, as well as provide you with a strong competitive advantage. Galleon are luxury international buying agents. We specialise in guiding affluent clients through the complex process of finding and acquiring prime and super prime real estate across the UK, France, Monaco, Spain and Portugal. We do not sell property. Our mission is to source and secure the very best real estate available, public listings, off-market as well as FSBOs, use our expertise to negotiate the best terms and manage the entire acquisition process through to completion. Fully independent, we have access to the entire market. No opportunity is missed. We act solely for you, the buyer.
galleonpropertysearch.com
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SERVICES
From concept through to completion, our design team remains in constant contact to ensure your bespoke specification request is fully realised.
BESPOKE STONE FABRICATION
Providing an exacting service that covers every aspect of stone design and installation, our team will explore and recommend a range of materials to suit your design concept and when selected, create a design template for manufacture and installation.
range of quartz and granite, The Brandt Collection also includes materials and finish options from all leading worktop brands like Cosentino, Silestone, Dekton, Caesarstone and Spekva.
From concept through to completion, our design team remains in constant contact to ensure your bespoke specification request is fully realised. In addition to importing our own unique
When you specify a kitchen project through Brandt Design, you don’t have to enlist a third party worktop supplier as we offer an exclusive Stone Fabrication Service with bespoke surface solutions in granite, quartz, marble and a selection of composite worksurfaces.
Julia Steadman, Head of Operations at Brandt Design says “As kitchen worktops have generally increased in size in the UK, different raw materials like quartz and granite are able to accommodate unique design features and offer
food safety properties: ideal for sanitary environments. Additionally, these types of worksurfaces exhibit non-porous properties, meaning they are very easy to maintain and most importantly, create the ideal foundation for healthy food preparation. It therefore makes sense to specify materials that are fit for purpose and can withstand a high-traffic kitchen space, where each surface is perfectly tailored to individual form and function.”
Scott Davis, Director at Brandt Design adds “A successful kitchen design requires rigorous attention to detail across the furniture and worktops, which is why we take care of every aspect of your project, from first blueprint to final sign off, so that we can create a portfolio of custom turnkey projects for each and every client.” For further information, please visit our website.
ARCHITECTS
To make an appointment or discuss your ideas, please call 01438 729 062 or email here.
NEW IN-HOUSE ARCHITECTS FACILITY A dedicated area for architects to use is just one of a series of measures that Brandt Design has launched to help it’s trade customers help the fight against Coronavirus, we have decided to bring our showrooms to you with the launch of a brand new ‘associates portal’ and ‘online design tool’ for trade customers.
Associates Portal Online scheduling: check out the 2020 calendar to secure a time to use our dedicated facility for designing or even meeting a client when in London. There is no requirement to meet with a member of the Brandt team as this is benefit that we provide for our associates. There are two Brandt showroom locations - Hatch End or Hampstead. Our Hampstead showroom has a dedicated client area on the first floor complete with working kitchen and coffee bar. Offering a private space to consult, design and plan your next project, you can discuss your ideas freely whilst drawing first-hand design inspiration from our customers via an on-screen presentation of past projects by Brandt Design. Online Design Tool Kitchen Planner: discover the virtues of 3D kitchen design by Compusoft, and visit the new online Design Tool from that gives
free online-access to an interactive kitchen planner - just follow the link and start playing with different furniture ideas, layouts, styles, colours and more! Both you and your clients can use this facility. When complete, your concept design is automatically registered, converted into a PDF and then sent to a Brandt designer ready to realise your clients kitchen. Upload your plans If you already have a design idea underway, customers can upload plans direct to the company website. Once received, a member of the team will come back to you with a suitable reply and/or custom quotation to start the next phase of design. We can supply plans / drawings in 2D, 3D or BIM VIP announcements Advanced notice of exclusive showroom events.
Scott Davis, Director, Brandt Design says “We are delighted to be able to offer this type of customer-focused resource at a time when social distancing rules are being observed. We would like to assure our customers that as a business, we want to deliver best-in design and service and this is why we are offering new ways to connect with each other on a remote-basis or by appointment only so social distancing can be observed safely and professionally.” 9
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PORTFOLIO
‘Streamline Perfection’: This timeless white kitchen is designed and fitted by Brandt Design and epitomises open-plan kitchen living. The transparent aquamarine bar stools with chrome swivel footrest creates high visual impact against the high gloss white lacquer furniture and linear worktops in light grey, all part of The Brandt Collection. The integrated appliances featured are all by Siemens and the Celsius Arc Tap by Zip Water UK.
PORTFOLIO
Over 40 years of experience creating uniquely designed interior spaces.
THE BRANDT COLLECTION At Brandt, we are inspired by beautiful designs that add a visual and functional value to everyday life. Explore our collection of designer kitchen and lifestyle furniture, worktops, lighting and more...
Tala is an award-winning lighting brand, elevating the humble light bulb to a design object. All Tala bulbs last up to 10 years and are compatible with most standard lighting fixtures.
This bespoke wardrobe features mirrored square-panel doors, which capitalize on every inch of available storage space and inside, dark wood interiors make way for custom-shelving designed to organize garments, shoes, hats & accessories.
Welcome to the Brandt Design cocktail bar, taking centre stage in the Hatch End showroom and serving customers from a traditional, in-frame shaker style kitchen in painted slate grey finish.
This living room furniture concept is contemporary by design and features a bank of furniture with fine-textured woodgrain surface alongside a high-shine black glass wall unit: on 11 display at Hatch End.
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PORTFOLIO
Creating a contained area for informal dining, home/office work and light entertaining, this custom l-shaped kitchen with 8-person banquette is both practical and stylish: light grey ribbed leather upholstery and atlanta terra oak furniture. Scott Davis says “The banquette was a great marker to work the rest of the design around, allowing us to create dedicated areas by zoning the room and ensuring an efficient use of space.”
A natural extension to the modern kitchen, this neat and tidy utility/boot room is designed in Brandt Heritage furniture with custom-framed bench seating area complemented by a porcelain floor. New and exciting design concepts continue to drive utility room trends with use of hard-working utility furniture. This includes room dividers and display cabinetry through to asymmetrical layouts and seating areas with a ‘lifestyle’ vibe and design aesthetic.
EMBRACE arm chair in meteorite black velvet with black legs. The EMBRACE armchair is designed with a comfortable padded seat with softly curved arm rests and decorative square stitching.
HYPE bar stools in vintage grey art leather with black legs. The HYPE bar stools feature an iconic scooped seat with baseball stitching and the upholstered seat is chic and comfortable.
PORTFOLIO
‘Dream in blue’: This two-tone, custom kitchen occupies a new purpose-built extension in a large converted granary. Deliberately in a position of advantage, this custom project was designed in the spirit of family without compromise to the finer details and/or spatial boundaries: like the vaulted ceiling and two useable interior walls. It features Brandt Heritage kitchen 13 furniture, pure grey and slate grey painted finishes with 30mm bianco eclipsia worktops.
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PORTFOLIO
Let your customers enjoy the benefits of natural stone in combination with wood, where a central island is transformed into a luxury space for cooking and dining. On display at our Hampstead Showroom, the grey-veined marble surfaces are Neolith Estatuario polished and the contrasting furniture is AV5082 Wild Grey Oak: all by Brandt Design, part of The Brandt Collection. The alcove sink area is framed by a collection of polished gold trim handles, which are bespoke, special sizes and
PORTFOLIO
made to order. These define the space and add both form and function by providing convenient access to the wall of concealed kitchen storage. Working in perfect combination with the two-hole mixer tap also in gold, this kitchen epitomises the current trend for mixed materials where atypical finishes have become the go-to for increased personalisation. Installed is a Miele Dialog oven and Brandt Design is one of a small band of showrooms in the UK that are allowed to display it. 15
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I travelled for VIP installations in The Ritz Carlton Hotel Montreal, and also to the Penthouse Suite in Cork’s The Elysian Tower. Other destinations include Nigeria, Ghana, France, Grand Cayman, Kenya, and many others.
PROFILE
STAFF PROFILE JEFF BAILEY Jeff is Brandt Design’s Projects Manager and is responsible for ensuring that each of the larger commercial developments that the company undertakes are completed on time and on budget whilst adhering to the specific site regulations. His responsibilities include hiring the installers and any other labour required for loading out etc.
In advance of installation commencing, Jeff will conduct final site measurement checks and ensure that the site is ready and prepared for us to install plus all health and safety measures are adhered too Once a project is underway, he has to manage the team and make sure they are working faithfully with all site requirements plus quality checking their work at all stages. During the entire process Jeff liaises with site managers to ensure they are happy that the Brandt Design team is meeting all their expectations. So what about the man himself ? We asked him to talk candidly about his life and role within the company. When did you join Brandt Design? I’ve been with the company since January 2018 Brief career resume? I was an apprentice joiner for 3 years, a kitchen fitter for 10 years, a surveyor for 3 years, an Installations Manager for 22 years and have currently been a Project Manager for 2.5 years.
Any professional qualifications accrued? I have a Level 6 NVQ Diploma in Construction Site Management, Construction Site First Aid, SMSTS, Sir Robert McAlpine Workforce Engagement Train the Trainer, CITB Site Health & Safety Awareness, CSCS Black Card Holder – phew! Moments in your career to make you proud? There’s been a number of things professionally but I think perhaps returning to the classroom after 40 years and successfully completing a level 6 NVQ Diploma in Construction Site Management probably tops the lot. Career achievements? I worked for Poggenpohl for 17 years and was once introduced by Poggenpohl’s Head of Global sales to the then CEO and several German Directors, as the UKs most senior Installation Manager! I was also sent to a number of locations globally to oversee the installation of new showrooms
PROFILE
including Tokyo which was Poggenpohl’s first showroom in Asia, and believe it or not I was sent to Berlin showroom to fit a Porsche Design Kitchen. I travelled for VIP installations in The Ritz Carlton Hotel Montreal, and also to the Penthouse Suite in Cork’s The Elysian Tower (Irelands tallest building). Other destinations include Nigeria, Ghana, France, Grand Cayman, Kenya, and many others. Do you have family and how do you relax? I have been married to the love of my life (I have to say that don’t I), Jackie for 32 years! We have 2 adult children Adele and Daniel and Grandsons Jacob (4), and Oliver (6) and identical twin granddaughters Ella & Evie both (3). I enjoy watching the mighty reds (Manchester United) and spending time with my grandchildren, DIY, gardening, Good food & wine and having to listen to her indoors!
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FEATURE
FEATURE
Sebastien Nicolleau, Managing Director, Galleon Property Search
LOOKING BEYOND CORONAVIRUS: WHAT DOES THE PANDEMIC MEAN FOR EUROPE’S PROPERTY MARKETS Luxury international buying agents, Galleon Property Search, evaluate the effects of COVID-19 on the European property market for foreign investors. As experts in the European property market, we’re already seeing the effects of the lockdown. Many of the predictions made in 2019 about key European property markets 2020 are falling flat – but they do give us some insight into the post-COVID-19 property world.
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FEATURE
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The question we’re asking is: what will the markets look like for foreign investors? Monaco
Portugal
London
Despite being the second smallest country in the world, Monaco has long maintained the throne as the world’s most expensive property market. Property prices in Monaco average €48,000 per sq/m, far outpacing Hong Kong, Paris and New York, and the booming real estate market reached a staggering €2.8 billion in 2019 (4.4% growth from 2018).
The Portuguese property market has enjoyed steady growth in the past 5 years, both in the number of transactions and prices. Quick lockdown action meant that Portugal has been one of the less impacted country in Europe (cases wise).
London’s property market entered the COVID-19 period on rocky foundations. Driven by Brexit uncertainty, property prices, recorded by the end of 2019, had fallen by as much as 15 – 20% in some area of central London since the referendum four years ago.
However, with the eradication of the 2020 tourist season and the recession, we’re likely to see a significant drop in demand/prices in submarkets driven by domestic buyers, like Porto or mainland. This will present appealing opportunities for foreign investors.
London’s market is primarily driven by foreign investment, meaning we should expect a small shortterm impact on residential prices, but probably not a huge drop at the top end of the market. On the contrary, the commercial market (including high street premises) is already struggling. With many businesses facing closures, availability of commercial property will increase and prices will fall. Read our full London update here.
Prices in Monaco have consistently remained relatively immune to challenges faced by other property markets – and is unlikely to see any sharp fall after COVID-19. With demand outstripping supply for years now, Monaco’s wealth benefit and tax system, combined with its unique location and lifestyle, will always be appealing to international investors. Read our full Monaco update here.
Top-end sub-markets, like Quinta Do Lago, where demand is higher than supply and is driven by foreign buyers, are unlikely to be dramatically affected. Moreover, Portugal’s Non-Habitual Residency programme (10% tax on foreign revenues) might attract an increasing number of international buyers looking to reduce their tax liabilities during this economic crisis. Read our full Portugal update here.
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FEATURE
France
Spain
France enjoyed a recordbreaking year in 2019, with over 1 million transactions and prices rising by 8% in Paris, 7.3% in Toulouse and 11% in Lyon. Experts predicted a similar year for 2020, but the pandemic has derailed predictions.
Of the European markets, Spain is likely to be hardest hit by this pandemic. Despite the property market having steadily grown over the past 4 years, the Spanish economy relies heavily on tourism. With the 2020 tourist season eradicated, we’re likely to see a spike in unemployment as well as a fall in domestic demand and property prices. There will be ample opportunities for investors – but, the market must be carefully navigated.
Areas of France driven by foreign investment should be fairly well-protected and prices should hold, or decline only slightly. Paris, the Alps and parts of the French Riviera have consistent appeal to foreign investors, and are likely to see continued investment. However, outside of these areas, France’s property market is highly dependent on domestic demand. Despite Macron’s pledges to support businesses through the pandemic, domestic purchasing power is likely to drop, resulting in falling prices across the country. Read our full France update here.
One area of Spain where prices are likely to remain well-protected is the Balearic Islands. Not only are they desirable for foreign investors looking for a stress-free lifestyle, demand consistently outweighs supply at the topend, thanks to regulations restricting planning permission. Read our full Spain update here.
Is It Time To Invest In European Property? The COVID-19 pandemic will hit global economies hard – and property markets are no exception. However, as we’ve seen, there will be opportunities created too. For those who maintain (or gain) purchasing power, falling property prices and interest rate cuts create an ideal environment for investment. At Galleon, our team and network of on-the-ground partners gives us unique insight into these markets. Our years of expertise and unlimited access to on- and off- market properties help clients make the most of their investments. The winners in these unchartered waters will be those with the experts by their sides, helping to navigate this new world. It has never been more important to have a buying agent working on your behalf.
If you’re looking for an expert buying agent get in touch: email us on info@galleonpropertysearch.com, call us on +44 (0)20 3624 5617 or +44 (0)77 6882 7957, or visit our website. Follow us on Instagram for the latest updates – and stay safe!
FEATURE
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CASE STUDY | EXCHANGE SQUARE
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Products • Kitchen furniture is in a Matt Laminate finish • Brandt Design laminate worktops • Single bowl stainless steel kitchen sink
• Chrome dual lever kitchen taps • Integrated appliances by Candy: Dishwasher, Oven, Induction hob, Extractor hood
CASE STUDY | EXCHANGE SQUARE
EXCHANGE SQUARE BIRMINGHAM | PHASE 1 Back Story Exchange Square, Phase 1 comprises 603 premium rental apartments across three buildings of 27, 14 and 7 storeys. With the first two buildings designed by Manchester based architect, Stephenson Studio, completed in November 2019, Exchange Square is the latest addition to Nikal’s hugely successful £350million Masshouse project, together with leading developer Sir Robert McAlpine. The firm, which also built 45 Church Street in the business district, will lead the first phase of the project which is one of the final pieces of the long-running Masshouse regeneration near the Bullring shopping centre in Birmingham city centre.
Colleges. Located between the city’s traditional business and retail districts and the progressive Eastside, Exchange Square has been the focus for a sustained period of investment and regeneration like the Curzon Masterplan.
Recognised as the largest build-to-rent development in the city, with a mix of studio, one, two and three-bedroom apartments, Exchange Square offers a 5,000 sq ft residents’ hub with concierge and members private lounge, 182 basement car parking spaces and exclusive member-access to its gym and roof garden. Phase 2. is scheduled to contain a further 223 apartments.
Hector McAlpine, executive partner of Sir Robert McAlpine, said: “Our company vision, ‘Proudly Building Britain’s Future Heritage’, is no more relevant than here at Exchange Square. We are proud to be part of the team to deliver luxury rental apartments and to play our role in enabling tenants to live in a new Urban Village in the centre of Birmingham.”
Location Exchange Square is an exciting new urban village in the heart of Birmingham, providing new high quality apartments, shops, cafes and restaurants – all directly opposite the new Birmingham Curzon HS2 terminal and the City’s main Universities and
The Kitchen Supplied and fitted by Brandt Design, Jeff Bailey, Brandt Projects Manager, comments: “Exchange Square was at times extremely challenging as it was three building projects on one development due to the three towers being
built simultaneously. At its peak, we were delivering and installing up to thirty kitchens and sets of appliances per week.” He added, “I feel proud that Exchange Square was completed one month before scheduled and that Brandt Kitchens were nominated as best contractor, subsequently, we are now a preferred supplier to Sir Robert McAlpine.”
Nick Payne, Nikal cofounder and Managing Director, said: “This is a significant milestone in our history with this site and with Birmingham. To give you an idea of the scale of this project I can tell you that it has employed over 500 people, 60% of them from the local area.”
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CASE STUDY | EXCHANGE SQUARE
Client: Nikal UK, Head Office, Mynshulls House, 14 Cateaton Street, Manchester M3 1SQ t: 0161 214 1800 | w: www.nikal.uk.com Architect: Stephenson Studio, 3 Riverside Mews, 4 Commercial Street, Manchester M15 4RQ t: 0161 832 0244 | w: www.stephenson-studio.com Developer: Sir Robert McApine, Eaton Court, Maylands Avenue, Hemel Hempstead, Herts HP2 7TR t: 0333 566 3444 | w: www.srm.com
“Advertising is saying you’re good. PR is getting someone else to say you’re good.” Jean-Louis Gassee
LIFESTYLE & DESIGN PR SPECIALISTS KITCHENS, BEDROOMS & BATHROOMS | HOME INTERIORS | DESIGN & ARCHITECTURAL
PR & MARKETING | DESIGN | PUBLISHING | EVENT MANAGEMENT WORKING IN HARMONY WITH BRANDT DESIGN www.publicityengineers.com +44 (0)1992 478 109
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Inspired kitchens ◾ beautifully made ◾ creatively designed ◾ expertly installed
NEW Hampstead Showroom 489, Finchley Road, West Hampstead, London. NW3 6HS Phone 02081 947 888
Hatch End Showroom 431, The Broadway Uxbridge Road, Pinner Hertfordshire. HA5 4JR Phone 02037 584 455
Head Office Brandt Kitchens Ltd Oxleys Road, Stevenage Hertfordshire. SG2 9YE Phone 01438 729 062