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Fine decorative modern hand made rugs & kilims

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The Rug Gallery is one of the largest retailers and distributors of rugs in the UK and Europe. We’ve been in the business for more than 60 years, and have established ourselves as the market leader in our field. We are the leading carpet supplier to some of the most prestigious department stores and high-end designers across the United Kingdom and Europe. With over 15,000 rugs in our London showroom, we have one of the most extensive and complete selections of rugs. All our rugs are superior quality and are hand knotted in a variety of sizes from small to oversize, circular and odd shapes.

Our collection ranges from fine Persian carpets to decorative pieces such as Ziegler, Garous, Shirvan, Afghan and Kazak designs. We stock modern & contemporary pieces from Tibet and India as well as a wide range of antique rugs. We have the largest selection of oversized carpets in the country, and we also have runners, Kilims, Aubusson and tapestries to suit any taste. With offices located in London, Zurich and the middle-east, we now offer an extensive selection of carpets and Kilims to our customers on all five continents. For any questions or support please contact info@yourugs.com or Call us on 01494 68 12 29

www.theruggallery.be

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MARCH ISSUE THE TEAM PUBLISHED BY THE FISH MEDIA GROUP LTD

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EDITOR Faye Manning ••••• EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Jordi Brown ••••• SUB EDITOR Kieran Bullworthy ••••• FASHION EDITOR Nicholas Peter ••••• DESIGN & PRODUCTION Bob Ambrose ••••• BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGERS Clair Gibbs - 07841 871 458 Pruvee Patel - 07533 976 485 ••••• ACCOUNTS Kathy Manning Andree Georgiou ••••• DIRECTORS Patrick Smith Rory Smith

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OUT & ABOUT – We put fantastic local businesses and exciting events in the spotlight each month – I M AG E : C H I L F E S T

OUT & ABOUT

1 MAY CHILTERN HILLS BLUEBELL WALK Take on this beautiful bluebell walk from Aston Rowant Nature Reserve in aid of Aylesbury charity Pace. An 11 mile route through beautiful countryside with great company. Pace is a groundbreaking children’s charity that transforms the lives of children and young people with neurodisabilities, such as cerebral palsy. Fundamental to our approach is a belief in every child’s ability to learn and make progress, whatever the physical or sensory challenges they face. Aston Rowant Nature Reserve Lewknor, High Wycombe, Bucks HP14 3YL

[EVENTS]

THE CALENDAR 27 MARCH

JON RICHARDSON & FRIENDS Critically acclaimed comedian, Jon Richardson, is coming to Aylesbury for one-night only to bring you ‘Jon Richardson & Friends in aid of Muscular Dystrophy UK’. Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, Exchange Street, Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, HP20 1UG

20 MARCH 2022

3 APRIL REMEMBERING THE OSCARS Fresh from their sell-out tour with their highly entertaining and innovative Remembering The Movies, Aljaz and Janette, will be returning with their brand new show Remembering The Oscars. Don’t worry if you can’t attend the Oscars this year, this show promises you the next best thing! Get ready to celebrate the Oscar winning songs in this exhilarating new dance spectacular with Strictly’s favourite couple, Aljaz and Janette. Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, Exchange Street, Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, HP20 1UG

20 APRIL ITALIAN WINE TASTING WITH MARK HUGHES

23 APRIL AMERSHAM FESTIVAL OF MUSIC We are delighted to welcome back Nazrin Rashidova to perform Beethoven’s wonderful violin concerto. On a previous visit to our Festival she gave a superb account of the Mendelssohn concerto. Praised by the American Record Guide for encompassing a ‘consummate technique and unabashed bravura wedded to a great sense of style, Nazrin Rashidova’s musical acumen is ensuring a unique place for her in the music world. St Mary’s Church, Old Amersham HP7 0DJ

Italian Wine tasting interspersed with Italian Romantic song. A range of Italian and Slovenian wines, white, red and Prosecco, will be introduced and tasted in the course of the evening along with appropriate musical interludes. The King’s Chapel 30 High St Old Amersham HP7 0DJ

25 MARCH SPRING CREAM TEA Treat your Mother, Grandmother, Aunt, or just yourself and your friends to a very traditional afternoon tea with scones, a selection of cakes and savoury delights. Browse some lovely stalls and buy gifts for those you love. Pre-order some beautiful flowers and collect them on the day. Tylers Green Village Hall, Church Road, Penn, High Wycombe, Bucks HP10 8LN

ALL YEAR

11 MARCH SOUL II SOUL CLUB CLASSICS Iconic British band Soul II Soul will take their acclaimed Club Classics tour back on the road in 2022, paying tribute to their legendary debut album, ‘Club Classics Vol 1’. With huge hits including ‘Keep On Movin’ and the UK number-one single ‘Back To Life (However Do You Want Me)’, Soul II Soul progressed from being one of the leaders of the 1980’s warehouse scene to pioneering British black music. Marshall Arena, Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire MK1 1ST

BEKONSCOT MODEL VILLAGE & RAILWAY Bekonscot Model Village and Railway is the world’s oldest and original model village, opening for the first time in 1929. Bekonscot delights visitors of all ages. It is a miniature wonderland with a large Gauge 1 railway, where nobody grows up. Warwick Road, Beaconsfield, Buckinghamshire, HP9 2PL MARCH 2022 21

30 APRIL OPEN MIC NIGHT

27-29 MAY

THE ROSÉ FESTIVAL An exciting new concept, The Rosé Festival, is coming to the Gardens of Fulham Palace in London, SW6. The festival will celebrate all things rosé, food, music with special guests throughout the weekend, and is set to kick off the Summer season in true style. Throughout the long weekend you can enjoy samplings from over 40 rosé producers from around the world, with brands including Mirabeau and Léoube. For tickets visit: therosefestival.seetickets.com/tour/the-rose-festival

Step onto the Limelight Theatre stage and share your talent with an appreciative crowd. Whether a musician, a magician, a comedian, a singer, a dancer, an actor or an all-rounder - all are welcome. Queens Park Arts Centre Queens Park Aylesbury Bucks Buckinghamshire HP21 7RT

26 MARCH FAURÉ REQUIEM, REBECCA DALE Milton Keynes Chorale presents an uplifting concert featuring Fauré’s sublime Requiem and Rebecca Dale’s ‘richly cinematic’ When Music Sounds in a new piano arrangement of the orchestral score. Appealing melodies, comforting harmonies and an understated scale all combine to make Fauré’s Requiem a favourite of choirs and audiences alike. St Mary & St Giles, Church Street Stony Stratford, Buckinghamshire MK11 1BD

11 MARCH OTWAY AND BARRETT

1-2 APRIL MURDER AROUND THE CLOCK The latest murder mystery event, by Karen Banfield. In 1958 Molly is proudly running her own milkshake bar, with the help of her daughters Bunty and Suzie, plus their next door neighbour. A talent scout spots Bunty’s singing potential and when a face from the past reappears, things couldn’t look better. So what turns one of them, to murder? Queens Park Arts Centre Queens Park Aylesbury Bucks Bucks HP21 7RT 22 MARCH 2022

This magnetic bond still holds after more than 40 years of attempted escapes and still loved for their total in-yer-face originality, the contrast between the dead pan humour of Barrett and mad onstage antics of Otway are hilarious to watch. John’s lyrical genius and Willy’s outstanding musicianship. Queens Park Arts Centre Queens Park, Aylesbury Buckinghamshire HP21 7RT

Some furniture is made for the here and now. Some is built to stand the test of time. At Neptune, we believe that the best can do both. Good design never grows old. Neptune Chesham, 01494 398472 neptune.com

OUT & ABOUT

EASTER AT PARADISE WILDLIFE PARK

oin Paradise Wildlife Park voted as Hertfordshire’s No.1 Outdoor Attraction by Trip Advisor this Easter as something big stomps in the World of Dinosaurs. Come face to face as we reveal our newest and biggest Dinosaurs yet - if you are feeling brave enough! Egg-plore over 30 life-size, moving and roaring animatronic dinosaurs as you travel through time at one of the UK’s biggest and most spectacular animatronic dinosaur attractions. Paradise is also home to over 800 exotic wild animals, from the biggest tiger species, Amur tigers to the world’s smallest known monkey the pygmy marmoset. Paradise even exhibits the largest anaconda on display in the UK and holds one of the best big cat collections in the country, so why not hop over into the World of Animals this Easter and enjoy all the animals in springtime. Experience our newest area, the Land of the Tigers, in a whole new way through the opening of our Bamboo Kitchen. An Asian cuisine restaurant with 180 degrees viewing of the tiger territory. This quick food service is an experience for everyone, and you will not want to miss out on it. Paradise is also Europe’s leading wildlife park for animal experiences, you can meet our mischievous meerkats in Meet our Meerkat experience to hand feed one of our Amur Tigers

24 MARCH 2022

in our Big Cat Experience. With the funds raised from these animal experiences going directly to the conservation and welfare of the animals in our care and in the wild. Paradise Wildlife Park / The Zoological Society of Hertfordshire is situated 20 miles north of London, 7 miles from Junction 25 on the M25 and approximately 25 minutes from London Liverpool Street by rail. For more information, please check out our website pwpark.com

“Paradise is also home to over 800 exotic wild animals, from the biggest tiger species, Amur tigers to the world’s smallest known monkey the pygmy marmoset”

OUT & ABOUT

It’s party time again at

CHILFEST!

Chilfest is thrilled to be welcoming a host of retro acts this coming summer, after two years of Covid cancellations.

hilfest are so pleased to finally be able to welcome music-lovers back to our idyllic setting in the Chiltern Hills with a first class line-up of much-loved acts. Chilfest 2022 is set to be a party like no other, with the likes of The Proclaimers, Tony Hadley and many more ready to get festival-goers back into the groove. Getting the party started on Friday night are a galaxy of top tribute acts. Music lovers will be able to ‘Come Together’ to enjoy the sounds of The Beatles, courtesy of The Bootleg Beatles, and ‘Dancing Queens’ will be up on their feet to ABBA Revival. You can also ‘definitely maybe’ enjoy the numerous hits of supernova 90s band Oasis, thanks to the tribute Noasis. And no doubt proving to be a great `substitute’ for legendary rock gods The Who are Who Are You. Finally, Tania Alboni will be bringing the songs of Amy Winehouse back to the stage with A Tribute to Amy Winehouse. Saturday has an eclectic mix of classic pop artists, including headliners The Proclaimers, who will be performing at Chilfest for the first time. Their string of popular hits includes King of the Road, Letter from America and the classic I’m Gonna Be. Opening the show on Saturday will be the ‘True’ gent himself Tony Hadley, ex-frontman of Spandau

26 MARCH 2022

Ballet, whose dulcet tones strike a chord with the audience every time he plays at Chilfest, his local festival. Also taking to the stage on Saturday are ABC, Maxi Priest, Peter Hook and The Light, TopLoader, The Real Thing, Bad Manners, Toyah, and Heatwave. After a challenging couple of years, what better way to spend the summer than relaxing in the English countryside while celebrating decades of fantastic music! www.chilfest.co.uk

SAT 2ND JULY

2022

THE PROCLAIMERS ABC

PETER HOOK & THE LIGHT MAXI PRIEST TOPLOADER THE REAL THING TOYAH BAD MANNERS HEATWAVE SPECIAL GUEST OPENING THE SHOW

TONY HADLEY

CHILFEST.CO.UK PENDLEY MEADOW, COW LANE, TRING

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OUT & ABOUT

KARATE the ultimate in self-defence

TISKA (Traditional International Shotokan Karate Association) heads up clubs both nationally and internationally and was established nearly 30 years ago by Gursharan Sahota, the Chief Instructor (8th Dan) and founder.

ursharan Sahota was asked to accept the title of “Shihan” by Mike Billman (9th Dan, Chairman of the European Karate Federation Technical Commission, the Secretary for the World Karate Federation Technical Commission and former President of the English Karate Federation) in 2015 after having been involved in karate for over 47 years during which he competed at both National and International level. He now instructs students within in his Association. Shihan has the meaning “Master Instructor” and “Teacher of Teachers”. One of the most significant events in Shihan Sahota’s career was the visit to Japan he made in 1984 where he trained in a Japanese Dojo under the instruction of renowned Sensei Hirokazu Kanazawa. This trip was the inspiration and realisation that he needed to dedicate his future to training and teaching karate. Shihan currently teaches over 40 classes per week to students in Beaconsfield, Chalfont St Peter, Berkhamsted, Dunstable, Maidenhead, Northamptonshire and Leicestershire and has bought many hundreds of students to Black belt

28 MARCH 2022

standard and beyond. Shihan also teaches Master classes internationally. He is also involved in charity work, helping to subsidise trips for surgeons to third world countries to operate on under privileged children and has, for many years, funded projects in India such as the building of schools. Karate is the ultimate in self-defence promoting fitness, self-awareness, confidence, etiquette, respect and self-discipline. Students at TISKA start from the age of 4 years old and up. It is a very family based club and many families train together. Recently TISKA proudly announced their youngest Black belt – who has trained consistently with his family and attained his Black belt at the age of just 8. Karate for children can help with bullying issues, exam stress and the building of self-esteem. It teaches children etiquette, respect and politeness to fellow students and their instructor. It can also help develop their concentration and focus. Karate for adults can help with general fitness and wellbeing and, with regular training, strength and flexibility will improve.

“Karate for children can help with bullying issues, exam stress and the building of selfesteem. It teaches children etiquette, respect and politeness”

THE DETAILS TISKA Shihan offers all new beginners 4 weeks free training upon joining TISKA. All enquiries should please be directed to office@tiska.com or 01753 882012

TRADITIONAL INTERNATIONAL SHOTOKAN KARATE ASSOCIATION

Learn the fascinating art of

KARATE

the ultimate in self defence

• FITNESS • SELF AWARENESS • SELF DEFENCE • CONFIDENCE • ETIQUETTE • RESPECT • SELF DISCIPLINE

BEG SPEC INNERS IAL FREE OFFER, T AVA RIALS ILAB LE Chief Instructor Sensei G. Sahota, 8th Dan.

No special clothing required. Ladies, gentlemen and children welcome. Families welcome minimum age 4 years.

Every Monday evening at Chalfont Club, Chalfont Leisure Centre Every Sunday morning at Beaconsfield Club, The Beacon Centre Every Saturday morning at Berkhamsted Leisure Centre Every Sunday morning at Henley Club, Henley Leisure Centre

For more information please contact us on 01753 882012 or 07885 294418 office@tiska.com • www.tiska.com

OUT & ABOUT

MICHELIN GUIDE Great Britain & Ireland 2022 Galvin La Chapelle E1, One Michelin Star

30 MARCH 2022

THREE MICHELIN STARS New Entry • L’Enclume, Cartmel, Cumbria. Simon Rogan may have interests in other parts of the world, but his passion for his first restaurant remains undimmed – as does his commitment to Cartmel and his nearby 12-acre farm which produces so much of the superb produce that clearly inspires the kitchen. Retained • Alain Ducasse at The Dorchester, London W1 • CORE by Clare Smyth, London W11 • Fat Duck, Bray, Berkshire • Hélène Darroze at The Connaught, London W1 • Restaurant Gordon Ramsay, London SW3 • Sketch (The Lecture Room & Library), London W1S • Waterside Inn, Bray, Berkshire

Michel Roux Jr At Le Gavroche, W1, Three Michelin Stars

t has no doubt been another year of change for the restaurant industry and extends to the world-famous Michelin Guide. On 16th February, the prestigious MICHELIN Stars were unveiled for 2022, representing all that is unique and exciting about the dining scene in the UK and Ireland. An extraordinary achievement in any year but particularly impressive at a time when the hospitality industry faced so many challenges, not least having so many stops and starts. So do bear in mind that these restaurants have achieved the feat of being awarded or retained Michelin Stars during incredibly challenging times, which makes it all the more impressive. • 8 restaurants awarded Three MICHELIN Stars, of which 1 is new • 22 restaurants awarded Two MICHELIN Stars, of which 5 are new • 164 restaurants awarded One MICHELIN Star, of which 19 are new For restaurants that have been awarded or retained prestigious Star status, we are focusing here on those located in London and surrounding areas, so let’s take a closer look at these extraordinary restaurants:

Clare Smyth At Core, Three Michelin Stars

TWO MICHELIN STARS New • The Clove Club, London EC1V • Ikoyi, London SW1Y Retained • A. Wong, London SW1V • Claude Bosi at Bibendum, London SW3

Ikoyi London, Two Michelin Stars

Endo At The Rotunda W12, One Michelin Star

• Da Terra, London E2 • Dinner by Heston Blumenthal, London SW1X • Hand and Flowers, Marlow, Bucks • Kitchen Table, London W1T • La Dame de Pic London EC3N • Le Gavroche, London W1K • Story, London SE1

ONE MICHELIN STAR New • Evelyn’s Table, London W1 • Frog by Adam Handling, London WC2 • Jamavar, London W1 • Kol, London • Sollip, London • Trivet, London • Wild Honey, London SW1 Retained • Amaya, London SW1 • Angler, London EC2 • Artichoke, Amersham, Bucks • Barrafina, London W1 • Behind, London E8 • Benares, London W1 • Brat, London E1 • Casa Fofō, London E1 • Chez Bruce, London SW17 • City Social, London EC2 • The Clock House, Ripley, Surrey • Club Gascon, London EC1 • Cornerstone, London E9 • Coworth Park, Ascot, Berkshire • Dining Room at The Goring, London SW1 • Dysart Petersham, Richmond-upon-Thames TW11 • Elystan Street, London SW3 • Endo at The Rotunda, London W12 • Five Fields, London SW3 • Galvin La Chapelle, London E1 • Gymkhana, London W1 • Hakkasan Hanway Place, London SW1 • Hakkasan Mayfair, London W1 • Harwood Arms, London SW6 • HIDE, London W1

• Kai, London W1 • Kitchen W8, London W8 • La Trompette, London W4 • Latymer, Bagshot Surrey • Leroy, London EC2 • Locanda Locatelli, London W1 • Lyle’s, London E1 • Mãos, London E2 • Marcus, London SW1 • Murano, London W1 • Muse, London SW1 • Pétrus by Gordon Ramsay, London SW1 • Pied à Terre, London W1 • Pollen Street Social, London W1 • Portland, London W1 • Quilon, London SW1 • Ritz Restaurant, London W1 • River Café, London W6 • Sabor, London W1 • Seven Park Place, London SW1 • SO|LA, London W1 • Sorrel, Dorking, Surrey • St John, London EC1 • The Coach, Marlow, Bucks • The Glasshouse, Richmond-upon-Thames TW9 • The Woodspeen, Newbury, Berkshire • The Ninth, London SW1 • Tony Parkin at The Tudor Room, Egham, Surrey • Trinity, London SW4 • Trishna, London W1 • Umu, London W1 • Veeraswamy, London W1 Despite the unprecedented challenges faced by the hospitality industry, the restaurant selection of the Michelin Guide Great Britain & Ireland is as relevant and strong as ever. The MICHELIN Guide Great Britain & Ireland is published in a digital format only, at guide. michelin.com and via the iOS and Android apps.

Benares W1, One Michelin Star

Restaurant Gordon Ramsay SW3 ,Three Michelin Stars

“The restaurant selection of the Michelin Guide Great Britain & Ireland is as relevant and strong as ever”

MARCH 2022 31

OUT & ABOUT

CHEF LAURIE GEAR

March recipe & kitchen news

arch welcomes a whole new array of produce coming into the kitchen. From the wilderness we receive the first flushes of wild garlic, and the tender tips of iron rich nettle tops perfect for pesto’s and soups. Growers reveal the first of their young vegetables, bursting with colour and flavour and this is a highly creative time within the kitchen. Perry is a cider made from fragrant perry pears, those old enough will remember the famous brand Babycham with its strong marketing boosting its popularity, fading on more modern times. However, the West Country produces some

amazing quality perry and this month’s dish pairs it alongside belly pork in a slow braise one pot wonder with a little fresh vanilla, adding depth of flavour and sweetness working in harmony with the pear cider’s natural sugars and fruitiness. We have been using Julian Temperley Burrow Hill farm pressed ciders, perries, and award-winning Somerset cider brandies for years. Based in the Blackdown Hills, his quality and skill is legendary to those in the know. I hope you enjoy this dish; it can be put together in advance and makes for a delicious dinner, maybe served with an additional glass of chilled perry or cider or two if you fancy!

RECIPE: SLOW BRAISED PORK BELLY WITH BURROWHILL PERRY, VANILLA & SPRING VEGETABLES Ingredients Serves 4 • • • • • •

1kg pork belly 1 onion 1 shallot 1 clove of garlic 1 vanilla pod 2-star anise

Method For the soup: 1. Begin by trimming any excess fat from your pork belly, and then in a saucepan blanch in boiling water for 8-10 minutes this will soften the pork and will make it receptive to taking on the cooking flavours. 2. In the bottom of a heavy bottomed casserole, lightly colour the seasoned pork belly then sauté your onion, garlic, shallot, star anise, vanilla pod, and honey until soft 3. Add Perry to cover the pork, cover with a lid and cook in a preheated oven 150°c for 2 ½ hours 4. During the cooking process add the new potatoes 45 minutes before the end followed by the vegetables which will take approximately 25 minutes. To serve: Remove the pork belly and vegetables and place onto warm serving plates. On top of the stove reduce the cooking liquor until you reach your desired consistency whisking in the crème fraiche and double cream towards the end. Season to taste 32 MARCH 2022

• • • • • • • •

1 bottle of vintage Perry 1 tbsp honey 8 young carrots cleaned and trimmed 8 button onions 8 young fennel 12 miniature potatoes 2 tbsp crème fraiche 200ml double cream

Champagne Michelin Star Celebration Following last month’s UK Michelin guide reveal, we are extremely proud and humbled to hold our Michelin star for the third year in a row. This is down the dedication and passion of our amazing team and to you our wonderful guests that have supported us for all these years, especially in these troubled times. With many exciting events and menus planned for all seasons ahead we’re looking forward to fantastic year! As a special thank you, we would like to invite you to join us to celebrate this wonderful achievement, and sample our new nine-course Tasting Menu with a complimentary glass of Charles Heidsieck Brut Champagne upon arrival* @£95 per person optional wine flight £75.00 *Available from Wednesday evening to Friday lunch (starting from Wednesday 2nd March) until 18th March 2022 Please quote the code ‘star 2022’ when you reserve for this celebration *maximum of 4 guests, available for new reservations

The Artichoke Restaurant 9 Market Square Old Amersham Tel: 01494 726611 artichokerestaurant.co.uk

Treat M um & Join Us This

Located in the heart of Amersham Old Town, we are offering you Indian food at its best.

No1 Indian Restaurant in Amersham & Surrounding inc Beaconsfield.

Unique Taste, Unique experience 10% OFF YOUR FOOD BILL Excluding Drinks & Other Offers Quote Life Magazines - Dine In Only (Excluding any other offers)

20-22 BROADWAY, AMERSHAM OLD TOWN HP7 0HP 01494 43 47 84 | www.mughalpalaceamersham.co.uk OPENING HOURS Sunday to Thursday 5pm - 11pm Friday & Saturday 5pm - 11.30pm

OUT & ABOUT

New Head Chef’s Maintain Michelin Stars The Michelin results are out and Tom Kerridge’s Head Chefs have successfully maintained the prestigious accolades at both The Hand & Flowers and The Coach, in Marlow.

om De Keyser, Head Chef of The Hand & Flowers, which remains the only pub in the world to have two-Michelin stars, was appointed to the position last year after working for Kerridge for nine years. The Hand and Flowers has become famous for dishes including Deep-Fried Turbot with The Hand & Flowers Chips, Avruga Caviar Tartare Sauce and Minted Pea Purée and The Essex Lamb ‘Bun’ with Sweetbreads and Salsa Verde. Tom De Keyser says, ‘I can’t actually put into words how happy I am. Tom, myself and the team in the kitchen and front of house have worked so hard to keep the standard so very high and maintain the consistency. I am over the moon and look forward to carrying on the legacy of The Hand & Flowers”. The Coach, the one-Michelin starred pub in Marlow has also maintained its star after new Head Chef Sarah Hayward joined the kitchen from Tom’s restaurant The Bull & Bear in Manchester’s Stock Exchange Hotel. Sarah previously worked at The

“Tom and Sarah are both incredible chefs and have been with me and the business for many years, I trust them implicitly. I am so proud of them both”

Coach in 2017 and returned to head up the kitchen which focuses on seasonal British small plates. Sarah comments, “I’m not going to lie, I’ve had a few sleepless nights in the run up to the results, but I am thrilled. It’s great to have all our hardwork recognised and I couldn’t be happier right now”. Commenting on the Michelin results Kerridge says, “Tom and Sarah are both incredible chefs and have been with me and the business for many years, I trust them implicitly. They are team players and have a true understanding of ingredients and flavours, I am so proud of them both”. 34 MARCH 2022

THE DETAILS The Hand & Flowers 126 West Street, Marlow Buckingahmshire Sl7 2BP +44 (0)1628 482 277 contact@thehandandflowers.co.uk www.thehandandflowers.co.uk The Coach 3 West Street, Marlow Buckinghamshire SL7 2LS +44 (0)1628 401538 www.thecoachmarlow.co.uk

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OUT & ABOUT

THE FARM SHOP FULMER

Buckinghamshire’s best kept secret B

ringing together the tastiest and freshest local produce, The Farm Shop in Fulmer has become a well-loved part of the village community in Buckinghamshire. Here are our top five picks from the shop. 1. Fresh coffee, tea & amazing breakfasts Ideal for swinging by and picking up a cappuccino, some brunch or for just sitting and relaxing, a visit to the café is the perfect way to round off a visit.

2. Fresh rotisserie chickens A customer favourite that shows no signs of going anywhere, the rotisserie chickens are immensely popular. Each one is coated in a special brine, made from a mix of salt and specially selected aromatics, for a minimum of 24 hours. The result? A golden, crispy colour and a unique flavour that’s hard to beat. Head down during the week for a whole chicken and a side for £14.75! 3. Scotch eggs and bakes What’s better than runny scotch eggs? These fresh, homemade rolls are one of the most popular products at The Farm Shop. Made from locally sourced eggs, they’re the perfect accompaniment to a good cup of tea. Similarly, they also carry a wide range of loaves, cakes and pastries available, such as croissants, that are all baked fresh and available daily. 36 MARCH 2022

4. Himalayan salt aged beef The Farm Shop Fulmer’s butcher’s counter boasts a Himalayan salt wall and is one of the only butchers in Buckinghamshire to have this feature. All of the red meat hangs and cures for up to 60 days, where the Himalayan salt is used to purify the air in the chill room. This creates the perfect environment to really bring the flavour out of the meat. Using the dry ageing process, the moisture is drawn out of the meat, creating an intensely deep and rich flavour. This also ensures that the texture is tender and succulent. 5. Shellfish specials at the fish counter The fishmonger carries a range of weekly specials that are bound to tickle anyone’s taste buds. From succulent lobster to scarlet Carabinero prawns, luxury and freshness are always guaranteed. You can even request certain products if two days notice are given. The fishmonger is available from Thursday to Sunday. Want to order The Farm Shop’s produce groceries online? Head to www.thefarmshopfulmer.co.uk/ online-store. Or better yet, check out the shop in person at Windmill Rd, Fulmer, SL3 6HD

Using the dry ageing process, the moisture is drawn out of the meat, creating an intensely deep and rich flavour

n po or ou f op s c op sh hi Sh re t t m ti en ar en es F ur Pr The yo at off %

THE

FULMER

The Farm Shop Fulmer

Located to the rear of The Black Horse Pub in Fulmer Featuring a café, butchers, fishmonger, bakery, fruit & veg and so much more. Come & try meat from the best butchers in Buckinghamshire, with one of the only Himalayan salt walls outside of London. Get booked in for Valentine’s Day at The Black Horse Pub, with outside igloo dining experiences, a dinner by a log fire at The Lodge, or a spot of golf with your loved one with our indoor golf venue. Please call for bookings. Open from 8am-6pm 7 days a week Click & collect and delivery available at www.thefarmshopfulmer.co.uk/online-store

farmshop@theblackhorsefulmer.co.uk | 01753 663183 |

@thefarmshopfulmer

OUT & ABOUT

Talking travel with

TRAVEL IMPRESSIONS

ell us about Travel Impressions We are an independent travel agent based just off the High Street in Tring. Our office is located in the same building as Costa Coffee. We are celebrating our 11th year in business in April but have a combined experience of over 50 years in the industry. How have the last two years been for you? It has certainly been challenging and we count ourselves to be very lucky to have come through the other side and still be doing what we love – booking holidays for our clients. We are feeling very positive as more countries are relaxing travel restrictions and destinations like Australia and New Zealand are finally reopening. One thing the pandemic has shown us is that we don’t need to be at our desks 24/7 so we will be continuing to work flexibly both in the office and from home across the week. We love to see people face-to-face to talk about their plans so clients can ring or email us to make an appointment in the office at a convenient time. What types of holidays do you book, and are there any destinations that you specialise in? We book all types of holidays and cruises worldwide as well as closer to home. When travel was restricted, we booked clients to Scotland and the Channel Islands. As more countries have reopened, we excited to be doing we specialise in, tailor-making holidays and itineraries. This isn’t just to longhaul destinations but increasingly to European countries like Italy and

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Croatia as well as Scandinavia and Iceland. Sarah is one of the top Canadian specialists in the country as recognised by Destination Canada. She lived in New Zealand for seven years and is a gold level Kiwi specialist as well as an Aussie specialist. She is also enjoys booking holidays to the USA and Far East. Michelle is our Indian Ocean specialist having visited Dubai, Mauritius and Sri Lanka. She has holidayed in the Caribbean and Greece many times as well. If we haven’t visited somewhere, we know someone who has! 2022 is going to be a busy year for you then? It certainly looks that way! We have been really busy since the start of the year which is great. Availability and therefore cost are the biggest issues at the moment so we would advise people to book as soon as possible! Please contact us to discuss your plans and ideas.

“Sarah is one of the top Canadian specialists in the country as recognised by Destination Canada”

THE DETAILS Travel Impressions Suite 4, George House, 64 High Street, Tring, Hertfordshire HP23 4AF T: 01442 890265 E: enquiries@travelimpressions.co.uk www.travelimpressions.co.uk

OUT & ABOUT

How can you

PROTECT YOUR ASSETS

if you and your partner are not married? Although it will depend on the particular circumstances of each couple, B P Collins explores two options - Deeds of Trust and Cohabitation Agreements.

ccording to the Office for National Statistics, the number of cohabiting couples has grown by 25.8% over the last decade - one of the fastest-growing demographics in the UK. This raises an important issue as to how unmarried cohabiting couples can protect and manage their assets effectively. Deeds of Trust Also known as ‘Declarations of Trust’, these are legal documents that can protect an individual’s property rights and ownership in a ‘contract style’ and can be adapted to suit the majority of circumstances. They are usually seen where a couple (or any two unmarried adults) seek to purchase a house together and can be tailored to the needs of a specific situation. If a couple enters into a declaration of trust regarding their home, and subsequently marry each other, the declaration of trust should be revised to reflect this change in circumstances in order to remain valid, and the couple should obtain legal advice from a specialist family lawyer. Cohabitation Agreements Cohabitation agreements are another legal document that can record a couple’s interest in property as well as all other assets, including but not limited to investments, gifts, inheritance, mortgage repayments, insurance policies, the ownership of vehicles, and personal belongings, including the family pet! As with declarations of trust, cohabitation agreements can be tailored to suit individual circumstances, and can cover any or all of the points listed above, in addition to the following: 1. The payment of maintenance from one party to the other. 2. The division of child costs including school extras, and extra-curricular activities. 3. Which party has ownership of which assets and/or belongings. 42 MARCH 2022

Since ‘common law marriage’ does not exist in England & Wales, cohabiting couples need to be aware of their limited, and in some cases nonexistent, legal rights, compared to married couples. Therefore, a declaration of trust or a cohabitation agreement can provide some much needed legal protection. In order to ensure a declaration of trust or a cohabitation agreement is given weight by the court, in the event that there is a dispute in the future, both parties should seek legal advice, and as noted above, should be reviewed regularly (particularly on marriage) to ensure they still reflect the parties’ intentions and can always be converted into a pre/ post-nuptial agreement.

THE DETAILS BP Collins For more information on Deeds of Trust, Cohabitation Agreements or Nuptial Agreements, please contact a member of B P Collins’ family team at enquiries@bpcollins.co.uk or call 01753 889995

OUT &&ABOUT HOME PROPERTY

FINAL UNITS REMAIN AT HISTORIC ROYAL CONNAUGHT PARK AS SALES REMAIN STRONG

eading developer Comer Homes reports that 75% of all available units in The Nova Collection, the latest phase at the historic Royal Connaught Park have now sold. Since launching the collection of premium new-build apartments in Summer 2021, the Comer Homes sales team has maintained strong sales to a mixture of purchasers. The 100-acre private gated residential site, located in the popular Hertfordshire town of Bushey, has proven popular with buyers wishing to downsize to a spacious apartment that provides less maintenance and upkeep than a large family home, as well as commuters looking to take advantage of a 15-minute commute into central London. Priced between £610,000 to £1.425 million, the apartments’ interiors have been carefully designed to be flexible, with large open spaces that offer supreme functionality so they can be freely arranged by their owners to match their modern lifestyle demands. Set within a collection of five new-build blocks, the remaining apartments within The Nova Collection comprise a mixture of two, three and four-bedroom apartments, ranging in size from 900 sq. ft. to 2,164 sq. ft. with some homes mezzanines or spaced across two floors. The majority of units also provide ample outside space in the form of private gardens, balconies and terraces, most of which are south-facing and benefit from direct sunlight throughout the day. Commenting on Royal Connaught Park’s successful spurt of recent sales, Sales & Marketing Director at Comer Homes, Caroline Comer, said: “Since launching the final phase of the sales

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programme, the response from buyers has been tremendously positive and we couldn’t be more delighted to have sold these exquisite units to our buyers and are confident they’ll enjoy having The Nova Collection as an ideal place to call home. “Having listened to feedback from our customers and paid careful attention to over recent years, the standards of living here are second to none. For many having to adapt due to multiple lockdowns etc., the demand for larger homes with access to expansive green space continues to be great and this combined with the excellent on-site amenities also contributes to this.” Residents of Royal Connaught Park are privy to around the clock access to amenities which include: a state-of-the-art gym and spa complex with jacuzzi, sauna and steam rooms, as well as an indoor heated pool. For those looking to enjoy the outdoors, the vast countryside, woodland as well as private parkland and private gardens provide the most desirable setting and environment. Another of the residential development’s selling points is its convenient access to local transport, which is supplemented by a residents’ bus that operates each morning through to the early evening and provides direct links to key local shopping destinations – all within a stone’s throw from a collection of popular shops and dining locations. For commuters, the bus also stops at Bushey Station where regular trains offer a 15-minute journey into London Euston.

THE DETAILS Prices at Royal Connaught Park start from £610,000 for a two-bedroom apartment. For further information on the last remaining homes for sale in The Nova Collection, please contact the sales office on Tel: 01923 222292 or Email: info@thecomergroup.com

Even if my name isn’t on the property deeds do I have any rights? Where an individual is not named on the title register to a property but has paid towards the purchase price, mortgage or renovation costs together with their partner who is the registered owner, does that individual have any property rights? Sangita Manek, Property Litigation lawyer at Blaser Mills LLP, gives her expert opinion. The short answer is yes, you may well have rights. Where property is held in the name of one party only, that person is known as the ‘legal owner’ and also presumed to be the owner of the entire “beneficial” interest as well. The difference between legal and beneficial owners is as follows: Legal owners are those individuals named on the title deeds of the property. If the property is registered, this person will be the person named as the owner of the property at the Land Registry. Beneficial owners are those individuals who are the true owners of the property and the persons entitled to the economic benefit in the property. Usually, the legal owners are also the beneficial owners. However, sometimes, a person entitled to the economic

benefit of the property is not registered on the title deed. For example, one person may have difficulties gaining a mortgage or not have enough evidence of an income to allow them to get a mortgage. Cohabitants and/or co-occupiers of a property often fail to formalise the extent of their respective beneficial interests in a shared home. This can create significant uncertainty for a non-owner, particularly if the relationship subsequently breaks down or a creditor is seeking to repossess a legal owner’s property either under bankruptcy or pursuant to a judgment obtained at court. In order to establish a beneficial interest in a property, a cohabitant may be able to assert his or her interest by showing that there was some kind of implied trust in place. These trusts are often known as ‘resulting’ or ‘constructive’ trusts. There is also a concept known as “proprietary estoppel” What are Resulting Trusts? This is where a person contributes to the purchase price of a property without being a party to the Conveyance/transfer (unless, of course, that money was given by way of a gift). Ordinarily, the financial contribution would need to have been made at the time of purchase, but in some cases, a court will accept later contributions if they were contemplated at the time that the property was acquired. If a party can show that they contributed to the purchase price of a property and that payment was not a gift, it is assumed that they have a beneficial interest in the property by way of a resulting trust. These types of payments would normally be quite substantial. What are Constructive Trusts? A constructive trust can arise where there is some sort of express or implied agreement, arrangement or understanding (also known as a ‘common intention’) that the beneficial ownership of the property should be

shared, and there is some form of relevant conduct on the part of the non-owner to support this. Where the constructive trust is based on an express agreement, that agreement, however imperfectly remembered and however imprecise, must generally arise prior to the acquisition of the property (although in some cases a later date will be accepted) and relate to the shared ownership of the property as opposed to an agreement about the occupation of the property. These factors must be accompanied by some kind of detrimental reliance or significant alteration on the part of the non-owning party. Where there is no express agreement, the court may infer an agreement from the way in which the parties conducted themselves during the course of their relationship, for example, direct contributions to the purchase price initially or subsequent contributions to mortgage instalments which are genuinely referable to a shared understanding that the paying party would have an equitable interest in the property. Other contributions can include substantial renovations to the property, or capital improvements (such as a new kitchen, bathroom or extension works) that would not ordinarily be expected from a non-owner or someone who was simply occupying the property. Mere DIY or general housework will not be enough to establish a beneficial interest in a property. What is Proprietary Estoppel? “Proprietary estoppel” is another means by which property rights can be asserted. Proprietary estoppel arises where a court takes the value that the assertion of strict legal rights is found to be unconscionable. It arises most commonly where a property owner encourages another to act to their detriment in the belief that they will obtain an interest in the property. If you seek to rely on proprietary estoppel, you must establish the following: • Assurance. The property owner induces, encourages or allows you to believe that you have or will have some right or benefit over the property. • Detrimental reliance. In relying upon the assurance given, you act to your detriment to the knowledge of the property owner. • Unconscionability. The property owner tries to take unconscionable advantage of you by denying you your rights in the property.

What if I am able to establish a beneficial trust? If you can prove to the court that you have a beneficial interest in a property, the court will then consider the value of the beneficial interest. For Resulting Trusts, the size of the interest will be in proportion to the extent of the contribution made. For Constructive Trusts, if there was an express agreement, the size of the interest will be in line with that agreement or calculated on the basis of a ‘broad brush’ assessment having regard to all the circumstances. Where there wasn’t an express agreement, the size of the interest will be calculated following an assessment of the parties’ ‘whole course of dealing’. If you establish a claim based on proprietary estoppel, the court has a wide discretion on determining the extent of your claim. Any claim for a beneficial interest in a property, whether by a resulting or a constructive trust (or proprietary estoppel) needs to be made under the Trust of Lands and Appointment of Trustees Act 1996. If you would like specific advice, or would like to discuss a possible claim, please do not hesitate to contact Sangita Manek on sam@blasermills.co.uk or call on 01494 770980.

OUT & ABOUT

SMARTER RENT

SUBURBAN CHIC TO MOUNTAIN PEAKS

ne of Smarter Rents earliest clients, Melinda, explains that asking Smarter Rent to manage her flat in Richmond as a short term serviced accommodation makes sense whilst she is spending time abroad. “I wanted to keep my flat, to maintain a toe-hold in London, but made a purely commercial decision to sweat my assets whilst I choose to live somewhere else.” The rental income allows Melinda to keep up her active lifestyle as she skis or sails (depending on the season) in Europe, but equally offers her a pied-à-terre for visiting her family or local chums when she is back in Blighty. Why did you choose Smarter Rent? Melinda explained “The onset of Covid caused a dearth of options in the lettings market. The world has changed in rental terms.” The Smarter Rent model is flexible and more cost effective for her needs. “My original agents were offering traditional longer term lets (at £2,500 a month) which meant I couldn’t use the flat when I popped over. The one agent who did flexible shorter lets was proposing a 25% charge and additional expenses for inventory and administrative costs that add up to £500-£600 for every letting! It’s one thing if you are having lets lasting a year or more,

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but that sort of expense really didn’t make sense for the shorter term serviced accommodation model that I needed.” She explained. “Smarter Rent have a much more personal and less algorithmic approach!” she laughed. “You also bring in £4,500 a month in rental with lower fees. I know I am safe in your hands.” So, Melinda, what has your experience been working with Smarter Rent? “It’s been very good!” she explained from Switzerland where she has a chalet. “I can trust Smarter Rent to make the right decisions and the extra income you have achieved helps finance my lifestyle whilst retaining flexibility. I feel the security of knowing I have a bolt hole but can’t afford to just leave the asset standing.” If you have a property that might be suitable as a serviced accommodation, and fancy a little more income with lot less hassle, do get in touch with Smarter Rent.

“I can trust Smarter Rent to make the right decisions and the extra income you have achieved helps finance my lifestyle whilst retaining flexibility”

THE DETAILS Can Smarter Rent help you find the perfect property? Get in touch and have a chat: 01628633893 or hello@smarterrent.co

Monthly rent for a 2-bed long-term let: £2,500. Monthly rent for a 2-bed Smarter Rent let: £4,500.” Source: Rightmove, February 2022. For details, see our website.

Start earning higher rental yields from your buy-to-let properties. Get in touch with our team of experts – and learn how to make your investment work Smarter, not harder.

Hello@SmarterRent.co

01628 633 893

Find out more at SmarterRent.co

FASHION, HEALTH

& BEAUTY

– Fashion, health and beauty news to keep you looking and feeling your best – IMAGE: REC LA IMS1. C OM

FASHION, FA S H I O N &HEALTH B E AU T Y& FITNESS

On the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee: Her most incredible fashion looks from the 1940s to now Katie Wright takes a look at the monarch’s style evolution.

ueen Elizabeth II is about to reach a major milestone – for on February 6 it will be 70 years since her accession to the throne. Over the years, she’s proved herself a veritable style icon. Here, to mark her Platinum Jubilee, we look back at how the Queen’s fashion has evolved, from her days as a young royal to now…

Queen Elizabeth II with her Maids of Honour after the Coronation; Below: The Queen and Prince Andrew in the grounds of Balmoral, Scotland

Royal bridesmaid In 1946, then 20-year-old Princess Elizabeth acted as bridesmaid at the wedding of Hon. Patricia Mountbatten and Lord Brabourne, wearing a typically Forties style frock with a square neckline and short, puffy sleeves. Regal bride For her own nuptials at Westminster Abbey, the Queen selected a design submitted by her chief couturier Norman Hartnell. The duchesse satin gown was decorated with floral embroidery and came with a 13-foot train. Coronation gown The Queen’s Coronation in 1953 called for another grand gown. Norman Hartnell was enlisted once more, designing a silk floor length dress to which colourful embroideries were added at the suggestion of the Queen. Polo watching Seen in a less formal setting in 1956, the Queen chose a simple short-sleeved dress, lace-up shoes and her trusty black handbag for an outing with Prince Charles, Princess Anne and one of her beloved corgis, to watch the Duke of Edinburgh compete in a polo match. Pastel portrait In this family portrait from 1968, we can see the first signs of what will become Her Majesty’s signature look: a block colour coat dress with black patent court shoes. 1 H 22 002222 57 2 8MMAARRCC H

From left: Queen Elizabeth II arrives for a dinner hosted by the Canadian Government; The Queen watches her youngest son, Prince Edward, and his wife Sophie Rhys-Jones leave in an opened topped carrage after their wedding at St George’s Chapel in Windsor; The Prince of Wales and Queen Elizabeth II talk after the marriage of Prince William and Kate Middleton

Seventies suit Embracing a bold Seventies print, the Queen topped this two-piece skirt suit with a headscarf – another of the monarch’s sartorial calling cards.

This page: Clockwise from top left: The Queen receives a ceremonial sword after her tour of the Golden Temple of Amritsar, when the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh visited the Sikh shrine in India; The Royal Family in the grounds of Frogmore House, Windsor; Queen Elizabeth II and her husband Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, leave Westminster Abbey after the wedding ceremony; The Queen meets Irish boy band Westlife, backstage after the 1999 Royal Variety Performance.; Royal Family on the steps of St Paul’s Cathedral after the wedding of Prince of Wales and Lady Diana Spencer

Wedding guest Taking a leaf out of her mother’s style book, for the July 1981 wedding of Prince Charles and Lady Diana Spencer the Queen chose a flowing aquamarine pleated frock with matching handbag and hat, accessorised with white gloves, shoes and pearls. Bright and beautiful During a visit to a temple in India in 1997, the monarch stood out in a fabulous orange chiffon dress and jacket with a matching hat. Lavender moment Showing off another glamorous wedding outfit, for the nuptials of Prince Edward and Sophie Rhys-Jones in 1999 the Queen donned a lavender hued lace gown with tonal accessories and a feathered headpiece. Sequin style Later the same year, Her Majesty sported possibly her most colourful outfit ever seen in the public, a long-sleeved gown with a sequinned top and bright yellow skirt for the Royal Variety Performance. Crowning glory Pulling out all the stops for a dinner hosted by the Canadian government in 2005, the Queen donned a white gown with a spectacular tiara and fur stole, contrasting the pale ensemble with bold sapphire jewellery. Lemon look Opting for a lemon yellow version of her signature look for the wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton in 2011, the Queen teamed a long-sleeved dress with a floral embellished hat and her trademark Launer handbag. Festive fashion Her Majesty chose a suitably festive hue for one of her few public appearances in 2020, donning a red coat and hat for a Christmas event with other members of the royal family at Windsor Castle. C H2 02 20 2 2 2 5137 9 M AMRACRH

FASHION, HEALTH & FITNESS

Achieve Natural Hair Growth

The Hair Dr Clinic is a private independent practice specialising in hair diagnostic and hair restoration services.

he Hair Dr offers the most up to date and state-of-the-art treatments including both surgical and non-surgical options. We can assist in both male and female pattern hair loss as well other forms of alopecia. Our clinic offers a holistic and bespoke hair treatment and restoration service by precisely identifying our clients’ goals and expectations. As a result of this, we will always give you advice and treatment that is in your best interest. The Hair Dr Clinic sets high standards to ensure natural hair transplant results are achieved. From the aesthetic skills and use of advanced surgical and non-surgical techniques to strict protocols and strong ethics to understanding personal goals and expectations complemented with the attention to detail, planning and design. As a result, the Hair Dr consistently achieves natural hair growth ensuring the long-term happiness of all of our clients. The Hair Dr is dedicated to delivering the highest

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standard in each and every aspect of your hair restoration experience. As an Independent CQC registered medical clinic we comply with required medical and patient care standards. Imposing our own exacting protocols over and above these to deliver the best service possible for our clients. Wanting a healthy, strong head of hair is natural, because of this hair loss can be an emotive issue. Sometimes, emotions can cloud good judgement, hence it’s important to take your time before making a decision. There are many good reasons to choose the Hair Dr Clinic. As true experts in hair restoration we recognise how personal hair loss can be and the effects it can have on your life. Reasons to choose the Hair Dr: • All our treatments are carried out by GMC and ISHRS (International Society of Hair Restoration Surgeons) registered doctors who have extensive experience and have been independently verified • One patient per day assurance- this allows us to deliver a bespoke and personalised service • We provide round the clock post procedural care and advice ensuring you achieve the best outcome possible • We use only the most upto date and state of the art equipment and technology to achieve the best results for you • We offer FREE in person or virtual consultations to better understand your requirements and to provide you with a bespoke plan.

We offer the most up to date and state-of-the-art treatments Get in touch today to arrange a FREE consultation with one of our expert doctors and let us restore your smile as well as your hairline

THE DETAILS The Hair Dr Buckinghamshire Clinic 51 London End, Beaconsfield Buckinghamshire HP9 2HW Call: 0800 052 0021 www.hairdr.co.uk

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

[NEWS]

FASHION & BEAUTY BAGS OF STYLE A check + oak backpack with adjustable shoulder handles. Made of high quality vegan leather and with a black YKK zipper to close the backpack in the top. The backpack has a padded laptop compartment on the inside. quinceandcook.co.uk

SOMETHING FOR THE WEEKEND Authentic sustainable luxury goods. Handcrafted by a skilled team of women in our own atelier in Mallorca. Every bag is a one-of-a-kind unique piece. We never repeat. This unisex model is the perfect weekend or carry on bag. With a deep interior zipped pocket to store all of your favourite items. The comfortable leather shoulder straps are made from restored stirrup straps. Designed to fit perfectly in the trunk of your car or the overhead luggage locker on an aeroplane. reclaimsl.com

SUMMER STRIPES We love this organic bamboo men’s cotton striped T-Shirt. It has a boxy modern fit and scoop neckline for comfort. veo.world

SPLASH OF COLOUR Clothes for real women and children - who live, love and laugh. Real women with real bodies and real lives. Palava celebrate living colourfully and creatively! palava.co 75 46 M H H2 0 22 0 222 MAARRC C

GOLDEN RULE A simply stunning one of a kind golden rutile Quartz teardrop stone with a checker cut back. We wanted to capture the rustic feel of the golden rutile with an added touch of elegance and to allow the light to shine through and capture the golden reflections and tiny rainbows within the stone. Made from 1mm 14ct gold filled metal and complemented with a 20 inch gold fill belcher chain. Stone approx 35x23mm. momentscrystals.com

FASHION, HEALTH & FITNESS

THE KENSINGTON WING T

“To ensure the safety of women and their birth partners, The Kensington Wing have important infection control procedures for staff and visitors to adhere to, but remain welcoming to your chosen birth partner for all stages of your pregnancy, birth and postnatal stay”

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he Kensington Wing is the dedicated private maternity unit at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, providing women with around-the-clock clinical care, comfortable en-suite private rooms and hospitality services. Being located in the heart of Chelsea and Westminster Hospital - one of the UK’s safest hospitals - the safety and wellbeing of mother and baby are reassuringly supported at all times. The Kensington Wing is immediately located next to the hospital’s outstanding and newly expanded Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) and a consultant anaesthetist remains on site at all times, 24/7, dedicated to the needs of women on the Kensington Wing. In these uncertain times, expectant parents can have additional anxieties or concerns about childbirth or going into a hospital. To ensure the safety of women and their birth partners, The Kensington Wing have important infection control procedures for staff and visitors to adhere to, but remain welcoming to your chosen birth partner for all stages of your pregnancy, birth and postnatal stay. Your individual room and en-suite facilities are a haven in these times and the catering and hospitality team ensures your stay is relaxing as well as safe. On the Kensington Wing the consultant obstetricians, midwives, nurses and maternity support workers provide care as a team. And are delighted to offer both consultant-led and midwife-led maternity packages. The Kensington Wing’s highly experienced team of midwives welcome enquiries from prospective women and the opportunity to discuss midwifeled care in more detail. These ‘meet the midwife’ sessions are always a relaxed and special time to

talk and discover more without any obligation. For those women who are appropriate for midwife-led care, the team provide full support throughout your pregnancy and the midwifery team are available 24 hours seven days a week for advice or concerns throughout your pregnancy, birth and postnatal stay. The consultant-led care package allows you the choice of one of our experienced consultant obstetricians to personally guide you through your pregnancy and birth. Your consultant provides continuity and individualised expertise throughout your journey. They build a relationship with you and your partner through the antenatal period to give you confidence to birth safely with them in line with your birth preferences. They remain to support you through the postnatal period including your 6 week postnatal check. All consultants are available to meet you and your birth partner without any obligation. The Kensington Wing enquiry team are always happy to support with these arrangements and answer any questions. If you would like to talk to one of the team, call 020 3315 8616, email chelwest.kensington@nhs.net or visit our website thekensingtonwing.co.uk

FASHION, HEALTH & FITNESS

THE COVE SPA

A delightful tranquil setting Welcome to The Cove Spa. Our multi-award winning, family run business is renowned for its ‘personalised’ and cutting edge service where exceeding your expectations is our philosophy.

he Cove Spa was founded in 2008 and purchased by the current owners – an ambitious couple – back in 2012, who have since given the business a distinctive purpose of serving local communities with world-class treatments and a first-class service; whilst increasing reach to many more communities across the Home Counties and London. The Cove Spa brings together all components of wellness in an intimate holistic environment with a comprehensive customer journey providing relaxing and results driven treatments and therapies. We provide World-Class treatments, using only the best products available in the Beauty, Skincare and Aesthetics sector today. Our treatments are second to none and are provided by not only qualified, but passionate and caring team members who strive to make a difference to your wellbeing. The Cove offer a wide range of treatments - from simple beauty maintenance like waxing, manicures and pedicures to more advanced treatments like Laser Hair Removal and Cryotherapy (fat freezing). The product brands used enable an inside out approach to skincare solutions ranging from relaxing facials to advanced peels and skin tightening options. Led and supported by Owner, Vikee Patel, the team at The Cove thrive on a close-knit, one-family approach Vikee maintains across the business. A passion to exceed expectations continuously and consistently is our philosophy and determination. The Cove’s invasive aesthetic treatments are

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conducted by Dr. Varsha Patel (BSc Hons, BDS) who is a practising dentist with a passion for both facial and dental aesthetics. The interactive brand website offers detail on all locations with their extensive menus available to download. Our LiveChat enables a visitor to make immediate contact with the team and the online booking system and mobile app make booking in very simple! Our Vision is very simple – to ensure we exceed your expectations at every stage of your journey with us. We believe in results and a first-class service! We believe in continuously re-evaluating our standards of care and developing our services to provide cutting edge treatments and a five-star customer experience, aspiring for perfection without compromise. Our ambition is to grow our presence across the UK by engaging with local communities to whom we can bring a positive difference in beauty and wellness.

The Cove Spa Branches in: Beaconsfield Bourne End Marlow Chiswick Finchley Harpenden Bushey Heath St Albans Hitchin WWW.THECOVESPA.CO.UK

celebrating 45 years in royston

MOTHER OF THE BRIDE AND GROOM SPECIALIST Condici • John Charles • Ispirato • Izabella • Ann Balon • Linea Rafaelli • Gina Bacconi • Lewis Henry • Luis Civit

FASHION, HEALTH & FITNESS

WHY ENERGY TREATMENTS

Have Hit The Mainstream

Historically, energy healing treatments such as Reiki or chakra cleansing have been deemed ‘woo woo’ or ‘alternative’. Yet, today, the demand for these more esoteric holistic therapies is rising. So, what exactly is an energy treatment? What are its benefits? And what has fuelled this change? Kate Kirrane, Co-Founder of Seed Wellness tells us why.

e are all made up of energy – it is our life force. It is what gets us out of bed in the morning and through our day. Stress, anxiety, past or present trauma and burn-out are just some of the things that impact our energy, tipping us offbalance and thus leaving us more prone to illness. During an energy treatment, the practitioner will work with our ‘energy body’ with the aim to restore flow and in turn, help us feel more optimal in body and mind. Today, there is increasing science and data around the energy body and how particular treatments can help us heal. Said Energy Practitioner & Reiki Master, Andrew Jackson, “Eastern medicine is becoming more prevalent in Western culture. There are many types of healing therapies available, making it easier for people to find something acceptable to their belief system. Reiki is one of the more well-known energy treatments and results can be transforming.” So what is Reiki & how does it work? Originally from Japan in the 1920’s, Rei – means universal life and Ki means energy. The practitioner is trained to connect in to this universal energy source, and channel it to help clear, re-align and re-energise the client. In doing so, it promotes the body’s natural ability to heal.

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Said Andrew, “While Reiki has been around for many years, particularly since the start of the pandemic, there has been a real shift - people seem more open to trying things outside their usual ‘norms’. Today, I see men and women of all ages and backgrounds who come for different reasons, from physical pain, illness and disease to poor mental / emotional wellbeing. “Clients come seeking relief from pain associated with chronic illness when modern medicine has failed them, and are often surprised at how effective the treatment can be. There is no limit to what energy work can help and support, and no belief system has to be in place for the treatment to work.”

We are all made up of energy – it is our life force. It is what gets us out of bed in the morning and through our day

THE DETAILS Andrew Jackson is a Reiki Master & Energy Practitioner at Seed Wellness. For more info, email info@seedwellness.co.uk or visit www.seedwellness.co.uk

ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

Neuro Physio Berkhamsted At Neuro Physio Berkhamsted we aim to help people with neurological conditions improve their movement in order to more easily complete tasks of daily life.

e are a team of professional, highly trained and friendly therapists, specialising in neurological rehabilitation. Neurological physiotherapy involves the treatment of people with movement and function disorders that have originated from problems within the body’s nervous and neuromuscular system. Common neurological conditions include: Stroke, Parkinson’s disease, Multiple Sclerosis, Spinal cord and traumatic brain injuries. We also have experience of complex neurological disorders, peripheral nerve disorders, balance and vestibular disorders.

Clients are assessed in their home environment. In depth assessment focuses on an individual’s movement, coordination, sensory awareness, balance, posture and any other limitation to participation in aspects of normal living. Treatment is goal directed and holistic, and aims to maximise function. It is based on the principles of achieving normal movement. Our service includes provision of exercise and management programmes, ongoing hands on treatment, balance and gait re-education, orthotic and splinting assessment and review, assessment for functional electrical stimulation (FES) to help with walking and electrical stimulation to the upper limb, hand therapy, intensive therapy bursts and treatment of less mobile patients requiring two therapists. We would be happy to talk to you to discuss any queries about our service or to find out if we can be of use to you.

SPECIALIST NEUROLOGICAL PHYSIOTHERAPISTS We provide rehabilitation in your own home if you have neurological deficit affecting your movement, including: • • • • • • •

Stroke Parkinson’s Disease Multiple Sclerosis Balance Problems Childrens Physiotherapy Occupational Therapy One to one or group Neuro Pilates

07786 363638 / 07909 982569 physio@neurophysioberkhamsted.co.uk

www.neurophysioberkhamsted.co.uk

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

A TRULY LIFE CHANGING EXPERIENCE To say laser hair removal is “life changing” could sound a bit dramatic. However, the reality is a lot of people suffer with shame and embarrassment from body hair. This is a true story from one of our lovely clients.

“A

s a teenager, I realised I was burdened with very hairy genes. I remember all my friends had these tiny fluffy blond hairs that were only visible on the sun, while I had darker thicker hair. I started shaving at age 13. I would shave in the morning, and by the afternoon I had prickly legs. I discovered waxing when I was about 17. I would finally have smooth legs. Well, at least for a week. But then an even more visible problem appeared… ingrown hairs! My legs looked like I’d been fired at with a BB gun. Not to mention the scarring and dark pigmented spots. The embarrassment was consuming. I always tried to keep my legs hidden, or constantly moving so no one had a chance to get a good look. They were even worse around the bikini line. It was so embarrassing that it wasn’t something I thought to ask for help with. I just didn’t want to draw any attention to it. The other problem with waxing was enduring the hair growing back until it was long enough to wax again. I remember having to wear trousers during hot Summer days, just to hold out for my waxing appointment. When I was 25, my friend told me about IPL laser hair removal. It sounded way too good to be true, but if it really meant solving all these issues, it was certainly worth a try.

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I remember feeling quite shocked at the first zap, and didn’t know if I could tolerate it, but I was determined. Two weeks after the appointment, the hair just started to fall out. For the first time since I was young, I had smooth hairless legs and bikini line. The feeling was liberating. I could wear skirts and shorts all Summer long.

“Ultimately, getting laser hair removal ended my battle with body hair management and I can’t imagine ever going back”

THE DETAILS Marlow Face & Body

Eventually, all the ingrown hairs started to heal, and the dark marks vanished. Then I was introduced to Soprano ICE, which is a different kind of laser. There was no pain, and I could have the treatment even with a tan. Ultimately, getting laser hair removal ended my battle with body hair management and I can’t imagine ever going back. I know my genetics and hormones will mean there will always be some maintenance, but the relief of not being ashamed anymore makes it completely worth it.”

34-44 Spittal Street, Anglers Court Marlow, SL7 1DB 01628 302028 www.marlowfaceandbody.com

HOUSE &

GARDEN – Keep it local for everything house and home – IMAGE: ORIGIN

HOUSE GARDEN HO M E & P&RO P E RT Y

Introducing Gabriella Crespi:

Artist, Designer & Disciple of the Golden Hour Anna Howell, Chaplins Interiors Editor

abriella Crespi wasn’t your average Milanese muse. She was beautiful, yes, but she also had what other creatives like to call the eye: a way of looking at things and making them wonderful. It began with a series of objets d’art she made for her girlfriends in the late 1950s: small velveteen keepsakes that she embossed with snippets of poetry. Like so many great Crespi styles, they were initially supposed to be kept private. And yet when Christian Dior caught wind of them, he begged Crespi to sell them in his store in Paris, spotting the kind of everyday artistry that had been missing from the world of haute-couture. It’s a quality she would continue to cultivate in the years that followed. Whereas icons of decades past had favoured rigorous lines and austere dressing, Crespi wanted to design styles that were

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lush, vital and alive. The ones we’re interested in today are known as the Bohemian ‘72 Collection. A compilation of louche, rattan loungers that promise to bring the warmth of the Tropics home. “[With Bohemia] I wanted to create a house of sun,” Crespi once declared, inspired by the easygoing garden rooms she found on her overseas adventures. To do so, she would have to abandon her usual mediums of brass and stone, reaching instead for something softer. She thought back to her many travels in Asia. The houses she encountered. And the way organic textures like rattan, straw and bamboo seemed to play with light. Mastering their many movements would prove challenging work. Each of the rattan palms had to be steamed to approximately 100 degrees, before

which Italian lounges laboured; ushering in a new era of softness, indulgence and style. To the chagrin of the public, the collection was only ever made available to private clients at the time — largely due to the intense craftsmanship that went into each piece. And yet we bring good news on this front. In collaboration with Crespi’s estate, the Bohemian ‘72 Lounge Collection has been faithfully reissued by the masters of modern nostalgia at Gubi. A series of rich furniture and lighting that promises to write warmth into the in-between spaces — while offering a portal into Crespi’s kingdom of summer, sun and style. chaplins.co.uk

being bent around a free-flowing mould. And yet Crespi didn’t believe in cutting corners, pioneering a wonderfully sinuous style of furniture that saw reams of the rich material coiled layer upon layer. Next came the pillows. At the time, low-slung lounge culture was in full bloom, but Crespi wanted to take it further, angling the cushions at 115 degrees so as to inspire the sitter to sink into new rhythms and flows. Observing, perhaps, how clouds chased each other through the sky. Or else the way an overhead bourgenvilla flourished just so. Light enough to be brought outside on a bright summer’s day, the Bohemian ‘72 Lounge collection did away with the last vestiges of formality under

“The Bohemian ‘72 Lounge collection did away with the last vestiges of formality under which Italian lounges laboured; ushering in a new era of softness, indulgence and style”

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HOUSE & GARDEN

GRATE CHOICES Flaming Grate, in Stokenchurch, have some fantastic ideas for restyling your fireplace, so why not visit their showroom to see how they can help you?

he warmth when snuggling up by the fire is pure indulgence, the comfort this brings is unsurpassed. With winter behind us and the first signs of spring budding, there is much to look forward to. If you have recently moved house, or have lovingly refurbished your living room, bedroom or kitchen, the chances are you will be wanting to install a new fireplace, stove or fire before the cold weather really settles in. So if you are looking to restyle your fireside, look no further than Flaming Grate in the village of Stokenchurch, where we have made our home for almost 25 years. A family-run business, we have seen many changes in the fireplace industry over the decades, in style and efficiency and, particularly these days, in the effort to be clean-burning and environmentally friendly. There is a lot of choice on the market and it can be confusing so we recommend our showroom as the best place to start.

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Here, you will find fireplaces in a variety of materials, sizes and designs, some standard but mostly bespoke. If you are after modern efficiency, you will find a wide range of gas and electric fires in all styles – 21st-century chic or traditional and classic – and no matter what size you are looking for, we are guaranteed to have a model that suits your needs. Wood-burning stoves can come in many sizes, too, and when it comes to design, the choice is startling, from the classic stove look to a contemporary statement like a Studio 3 Eco wood burning stove on a bench. We think that any barn conversion would be proud to have one! You will also be impressed with the realism and convenience of today’s electric fires, and again we supply the very best brands on the market from Evonic to E Reflex to Pryzam. Whether you want to fit your fire in a hole in the wall or in a fireplace, our expert team will make sure the latest industry developments, rules and requirements are carefully adhered to. After discussing your tastes and preferences with you, our team of professionals will carry out a site survey so we can make 100% sure that your choice of fire and product is suitable to the room and your needs. Our fitters are gas-safe and HETAS-registered, and skilled to do the whole job from start to finish without the need to involve third party trades. A warm welcome awaits you and your family at Flaming Grate, and we look forward to seeing you.

If you’re after modern efficiency, you’ll find a wide range of gas and electric fires in all styles

THE DETAILS Flaming Grate Oxford Road, Stokenchurch, High Wycombe, Bucks, HP14 3TA sales@flaminggrate.co.uk 01494 485 695 flaminggrateheatingltd.co.uk

COVER STORY

Bring life to your HOME INTERIOR

he Rug Gallery is one of the largest retailers and distributors of rugs in the UK and Europe. We’ve been in the business for more than 60 years, and have established ourselves as the market leader in our field. We are the leading carpet supplier to some of the most prestigious department stores and high-end designers across the United Kingdom and Europe. With over 15,000 rugs in our London showroom, we have one of the most extensive and complete

72 MARCH 2022

selections of rugs. All our rugs are superior quality and are hand knotted in a variety of sizes from small to oversize, circular and odd shapes. Our collection ranges from fine Persian carpets to decorative pieces such as Ziegler, Garous, Shirvan, Afghan and Kazak designs. We stock modern & contemporary pieces from Tibet and India as well as a wide range of antique rugs. We have the

“Our collection ranges from fine Persian carpets to decorative pieces”

largest selection of oversized carpets in the country, and we also have runners, Kilims, Aubusson and tapestries to suit any taste. With offices located in London, Zurich and the middle-east, we now offer an extensive selection of carpets and Kilims to our customers on all five continents.

Prevent month damage by buying a few appropriate sprays which will protect your rug from damage. Avoid leaving your carpets untouched and in the dark as humid areas attract not only moths but other parasites as well. Additionally, it is essential to keep your rug clean. Here are some tips: 1. Professional Cleaning: Due to the composition of different materials and dyes which the rugs are made from, we recommend professional cleaning from six months to once a year so that any damage such as colour bleeding is prevented. 2. Stain Removal: If an unforeseen event occurs, work quickly. Scoop up solids or absorb the liquids as much as possible and without scrubbing the area to prevent matting or fuzzing. Contact us immediately. 3. Vacuuming cleaning: Always be careful with the fringe and the vacuum cleaner since a few are too strong and powerful and would diminish the life of a rug. Use only a suction vacuum. Vacuuming removes most dry soil, but street grime, oily soils, and air pollution can build up eventually, and your area rug may require cleaning. The accumulation of these particles can cause gradual dulling. For any further questions or to book a cleaning or repair appointment, please call us at 01494 681229 or email us at info@yourugs.com

RUG CARE Handmade rugs of good quality can be a significant investment. Even though they are of excellent quality and therefore will last for a long time, taking good care of it will only add years to your enjoyment. Our first advice is to purchase an underlay alongside your rug. Underlays are quite inexpensive and bring several advantages. These include protection from the underside of the carpet, so it’s softer to walk on and to avoid the rug from sliding around the room. Secondly, if the rug will be placed under a table or chairs, we recommend the use of protectors on the feet as this will prevent indentations. Please bear in mind, that if you are placing your rug under furniture, you should rotate it frequently. One of the most common reasons for rug damages is the placement of heavy objects over a long time.

RUG RESTORATIONS & WASH The Rug Gallery provides the finest rug restoration services for more than 30 Years. We complete in-house thorough wash and repair services for any kind of rugs. To find out more about our rug restoration and washing services or for a quotation please contact us. The Rug Gallery provides restoration and repairs for almost any kind of damage that might happen to your rug. If your rug sustains serious damage this should be taken care of by an expert only.

MARCH 2022 73

HOUSE & GARDEN

Spring into

OUTDOOR LIVING

“At its simplest, outdoor living is expanding your lifestyle into your garden and patio spaces”

Your local supplier with a personal touch. Marlow Stoves is family run business with a genuine passion for what we do - bringing our customer’s dreams to life and creating a better environment for the future.

THE DETAILS

ith many of us spending a lot more time at home we often reflect on where best to invest for maximum return. Investing in outdoor living gives you a greater feeling of space and a guaranteed way of enjoy the better weather. It really is the feel good solution. At its simplest, outdoor living is expanding your lifestyle into your garden and patio spaces. It’s about taking those elements of everyday life that happen indoors, out. Your outside living space isn’t just for show or to grow things in: it’s where you and your family eat, read, chat, socialise, cook and work. At Marlow Stoves we consult, design, develop and build solutions for all things sociable outdoors. From cooking on gas or charcoal, kitchen, dining, lighting, seating, shade and cover. Most importantly in the UK climate, and our favourite subject, warmth. We’ve come a long way from smoky open fire pits 74 MARCH 2022

and now supply hand-built, enclosed outdoor wood burning fireplaces with flues to keep the smoke further away from your furnishings and clothes. For all your outdoor living needs contact us or visit our showroom.

Marlow Stoves Unit U, The Rose Business Estate, Marlow Bottom, Bucks, SL7 3ND info@marlowstoves.co.uk 01628 290 142 marlowstoves.co.uk

HOUSE & GARDEN HOME & PROPERTY

Top considerations for an indoor pool

o, you’ve decided on an indoor swimming pool, what now? There are many decisions to be made along the way, attention to detail and precise planning is crucial when designing a successful swimming pool and pool house. For anyone wanting to begin the process, here are the answers to key questions to help with the decision making: Are you interested in a stand alone indoor pool house or a pool house extension to your home? This is the biggest decision you’ll need to make when it comes to your indoor swimming pool as placement and location play a crucial role in the success of a project. There are advantages and disadvantages to both options. You’ll need

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to think about main use for the swimming pool, do you want a place to escape to away from the home or do you want it attached to your home? Will it play a big part in your daily routine? Do you have a budget you’re working towards? Will you need planning permission? For a stand alone pool house that is freestanding, complies to the permitted development design criteria and doesn’t affect your permitted development rights, it’s likely you won’t need planning permission. However, a pool house extension to your home will need planning permission. Origin have a wealth of experience in gaining planning approval for indoor pools and they also manage the whole process for you so, no need to panic!

“Attention to detail and precise planning is crucial when designing a successful swimming pool”

Do you start with an architect? No, Origin do it all, providing initial design sketches and budgetary proposals free of charge in their feasibility studies. Architects are extremely well versed with domestic construction details, but unfortunately an indoor pool is very different. An architect can provide an outline design for an indoor pool but this may be an unnecessary expense as many don’t have the knowledge or insurances needed to take that design further. Which features have the biggest impact on cost? The most popular size for an indoor pool is between 8m to 12m as the bigger the pool, the bigger the cost. For avid swimmers, there are some excellent counter current swim devices available making the size of the pool less important. Buying a pool cover is one of the bigger investments you’ll make throughout the process but they’re worth it as an important part of the pool design. They retain heat, reduce running costs and provide a level of safety, making them a necessity rather than an option. When adding different features to your indoor swimming pool, it’s important to remember your original motivation. Did you want to create a place of relaxation? Your own fitness centre? A social hub for friends and family? Why Origin? It’s simple, Origin does it all. Building pools is

To speak to the experts at Origin Leisure call 01895 453996 now or visit originpools.co.uk for more information and to subscribe to our newsletter. Follow us on Instagram too @originpoolsuk

a specialised field, it’s unlike any other building project and requires a holistic approach with all the key elements working together from the beginning. Origin has all the design and engineering expertise necessary and manage the whole building process for you, from initial concept, planning and design to completion and beyond, eliminating the need for you to employ separate companies. Access to a pool right on your doorstep means it’s easy to swim everyday in the privacy of your own home, either to maintain a healthy lifestyle or simply as a space to relax. Origin have been building award winning swimming pools for over 40 years and in that time have successfully completed thousands of pools and pool houses to a wide range of specifications. Whether you’re looking for indoor or outdoor, wellness or fun, Origin has experienced it all and are available to help you create your home pool managing every stage from start to finish, giving you the confidence and freedom to enjoy finally swimming in your own home.

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HOUSE & GARDEN

Taking your home

TO THE NEXT LEVEL

Pollock Homelifts is an independently owned British business that for the past 38 years has been successfully designing and manufacturing lifts in the UK.

ne of the key ingredients to our success has been our ability to offer a topquality, collection of products which range from home lifts, home elevators, through floor lifts and platform lifts. This extensive range of lift products allows us to provide our customers with the best advice and value for money products on the market. Our priority is safety and product reliability, as demonstrated by our certifications and accreditations, all our lifts conform fully to British Safety Standards. Delivering On Every Level We have been designing and manufacturing home lifts in the UK for 38 years. Our home lifts are unique, innovative and can be fitted in almost any residential environment to enhance your life. Unlike other conventional lifts that require hydraulics, our home lifts use a smart electric motor that is whisper quiet and requires less power to run. All our home lifts have a compact footprint and a self-supporting structure that allows the lift to easily move through the floor.

Luxury To Suit Your Lifestyle Our Residential Elevator provides smooth and quiet through-floor travel and is an impressive addition to any home. Designed to be easily installed in a wide range of homes, the Residential Elevator is available in a range of sizes and with travel distance up to 4.2 metres. It travels on elegant vertical elevator rails that means when the lift is not in the room you can enjoy all of your living space. Manufactured to the highest safety standards and with a range of optional extras, our Residential Elevator is the ultimate choice for adding value to your lifestyle at home. Create The Lift Of Your Dreams Our Bespoke Home Lifts integrate seamlessly with your home, without the need for extensive building work associated with conventional lifts. We’ve combined the advantages of platform lift technology with the comfort of a fully enclosed cabin. This creates an experience that gives you the same sense of luxury as a conventional lift but at a fraction of the cost. You can personalise every part of our lifts to fit with your home – choose from market leading options to build the lift of your dreams

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All our lifts conform fully to British Safety Standards THE DETAILS Pollock Homelifts Contact us for FREE no obligation advice and speak to one of our friendly experts on 0800 472 5007 E: info@pollockhomelifts.co.uk W: pollockhomelifts.co.uk

BUY DIRECT FROM THE MANUFACTURER Benefits of a Pollock Homelift

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Quick Installation

Typically installing your Homelift takes 1-2 days and there should be no requirement to redecorate one your home lift is installed.

Full Warranty

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Pollock Homelifts come with a full 12-month warranty to cover all parts and labour.

A Perfect Fit

Pollock Homelifts come in a range of sizes to suit individual needs as well as the available space in your home.

Back-Up Power

Pollock Homelifts have a dedicated battery back-up that will take over in the event of a power cut.

• Market leading technology

Service Agreement

• Quick and easy to install

Service agreements are available post installation to ensure your lift is serviced and operating safely for years to come.

• 12 month warranty

Expert Design

• Smallest lift on the market

• Certified to the British Standard 5900:2012 Pollock Lifts is an independently owned British business, that has, for over 38 years, designed and manufactured lifts that help people regain their independence and stay in the home they love. We have a top-quality collection of homelifts, home elevators, through-floor lifts and platform lifts to suit you and your home. Our lifts are designed to be whisper quiet and fit seamlessly with your home. With their simple one touch controls, they are easy to operate too. Installation is quick and easy, only taking two or three days.

Homelift specialists since 1983

Pollock Homelifts have been created to suit different needs and budgets using knowledge gleaned from users, healthcare professionals and our own experience.

HOUSE GARDEN HO U S E & &G A RDEN

Faded Glamour

inger-turned-fashion designer Pearl Lowe is renowned for her quirky, individual style - so it’s probably no surprise that she defiantly dances to her own tune when it comes to her decor choices too. Her home - a rambling 11-bedroom Georgian mansion in Somerset - showcases her trademark blend of grand, romantic chic and cool rock ‘n roll. “Many people might regard my style as quite

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It’s all about ‘faded glamour’ for Pearl Lowe and her designer friends. GabrIeLLe FaGan finds out how to get the look.

‘eclectic’,” observes London-born Lowe. “That’s fine by me, because I don’t believe there should be any rules - unless you want your house to be a hotel,” the 49-year-old declares with a smile. She sums up her interior style as “faded glamour” - and this is also the title of her new book, which celebrates her approach to decor and creating spaces she loves. Faded Glamour gives us a glimpse into not only Lowe’s own home, but also the private spaces of her super-creative designer friends, including Solange Azagury-Partridge, Alice Temperley and Sera Hersham Loftus. There are colourful living rooms, intimate bedrooms, and plush bathrooms which showcase the many different ways ‘faded glamour’ can be interpreted - from urban to rustic, and bohemian to vintage. “I’d say it’s a gloriously decadent yet well-lived-in decorating style. I think of rooms that are elegant yet whimsical at the same time,” muses Lowe. She shares her own home with her musician husband, Danny Goffey (of the Nineties band Supergrass), and their children Alfie, 23, Frankie 20, and Betty, 15. Her daughter, model Daisy, 31, is a regular visitor too. Throughout the property, Lowe has managed to deftly mix precious pieces of antique furniture with contemporary colourful pieces from flea markets, which happily sit alongside 18th century mahogany wood and 1950s plastic retro. Wear-and-tear and the patina of age aren’t hidden. Instead, they’re revered and deliberately embraced. “To me, an object that was once the height of elegance but is now a bit battered

“I’d say it’s a gloriously decadent yet well-lived-in decorating style. I think of rooms that are elegant yet whimsical at the same time,” muses Lowe

has far more allure than something brand new,” says Lowe. “What I enjoy is the mix, the alchemy you create when you play around with styles... where chintz sits alongside animal print and sultry velvets; rococo suddenly goes a little rock ‘n roll, and a freestanding 1970s Anglepoise lamp sets it all alight.” As a designer, she draws inspiration from many quarters: art, film, photography, music, travel and above all - her friends, especially Rachel Ashwell, the designer and writer who introduced us all to ‘shabby chic’ back in the Nineties. Ashwell, says Lowe, “taught me how to create spaces that are not just decadent and stylish, but deliciously inviting and alluringly comfortable”. Here, we take a sneak peek at some of the homes bringing ‘faded glamour’ to life...

CoLourFuL Faded GLamour Solange azagury-Partridge This interior literally “sets your spirit soaring”, enthuses Lowe. This is a home where sofas and chairs are covered in a giddy array of colourful fabrics and throws, and who’s style takes influences from the East. It’s a harmony of surprising contrasts - a sofa in a Sanderson flowery chintz sits alongside one dressed in an Ikat print, while yellow velvet clashes with shocking pink toile de Jouy wallpaper, and mismatched Moroccan rugs form a rainbow patchwork across the floors. Fabric used for walls adds to a sense of warmth as well as enriching the palette of shades, while the woodwork is painted baby pink. “Solange’s bold use of colour is full of wit and wonder and brings a smile to your face,” says Lowe.

from original plaster roses on the ceiling, and black-andwhite photographs and contemporary art line the walls of wood-panelled reception rooms. A mix of intriguing finds from local flea markets - twinkling candelabras, vintage glassware, bespoke china and stacks of rare books - are just some of the treasures that embellish the space and enhance character and interest. “What I love about this house is that despite the grandeur of the building itself - which in other hands could look austere and formal - Alice has, with her inherent romantic aesthetic, created a whimsical, enchanted world here,” Lower says admiringly.

FaShIon a GLamorouS home Sera hersham-Loftus

“this is a home where sofas and chairs are covered in a giddy array of colourful fabrics and throws”

Fashion and interior designer Hersham-Loftus has banished walls from her London apartment, and transformed it into a giant living space simply divided into areas by beautiful panels of fabric. Hand-made muslin curtains - appliqued with vintage lace and hand-dyed - hang over windows, and ceilings are painted black. She’s furnished with day-beds, antique furniture and a jungle of vast potted plants throughout, which conceal subtle lighting effects. The designer’s style, says Lowe, is ever evolving, and “sumptuous, seductive, exotic, and highly unique”. Faded Glamour: Inspirational Interiors And Beautiful Homes, photography by Amy Neunsinger, is published by CICO Books, priced £19.99. Available now.

JeweLS For the home alice temperley Award-winning fashion designer Temperley, who dresses some of the most stylish women in the world - from the Duchess of Cambridge to Beyonce - playfully mixes old with new in her home, a Regency mansion. Giant disco balls hang MARCH 2022 81

HOUSE & GARDEN

HOW BIG SHOULD I BUILD MY HOUSE EXTENSION?

ften when extending we get preoccupied with only thinking of the project in terms of square metres, not in terms of what that size is adding to the house. Bigger is not always better when it comes to house extensions, and there are often ways of creating the feeling of more space, without adding a large extension. This is often achieved through clever design, not only of the new space, but also what is already there. If you are going bigger build simple shapes. The more complex a building is, the more it will cost to build and the more it will cost to run. Every time you introduce a corner in an external wall you slow down the building process. Each time you introduce a valley or a hip, the costs of the roof timbers rise and the labour timescale is extended. If you want to save on your build costs, avoid overcomplicated shapes.

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Build simple shapes. The more complex a building is, the more it will cost to build and the more it will cost to run.

Ashridge Construction consists of a team of highly skilled, trustworthy builders and tradesmen which have many years experience in constructing new build houses, home extensions, loft conversions and refurbishments in the Hertfordshire / Buckinghamshire area.

THE DETAILS Ashridge Construction 01442 732152 alex@ashridgeconstruction.com www.ashridgeconstruction.com

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HOUSE & GARDEN

[NEWS]

INTERIORS TOTALLY TROPICAL Tropical tones are being injected into the home for SS22. These fun colour punches and natural elements will breathe warm air into interior schemes and add a sense of adventure. The Emmeline Pink Velvet Armchair in all its beauty presents an art deco feel with its curvaceous cushion and arm structure. atkinandthyme.co.uk

PRETTY IN PINK At Poster Store, you will find Scandinavian designed posters created with joy by passionate artists from around the world. They also offer stylish high-quality frames that are easy to handle and hang up on the wall. They are always on the lookout for touching and inspiring art and constantly expand our range with new stunning posters. posterstore.com

EASTER BUNNIES The Ella James Easter collection focuses on bringing the outside in with beautiful, Meadow flower, Lavender and Forget-Me-Knot wreaths, hanging eggs, rabbits and birds painted with matching floral designs. ellajames.co.uk 28 14 8 MF MA EABR RRC CUH 220Y02 222 20 2 2 HA R

NEW YORK CITY BLUES Iconic. Achingly stylish. Timeless. The Brooklyn range from Porcelain Superstore pairs a sleek metro shape with a semidistressed finish to give a contemporary vibe. porcelainsuperstore.co.uk

BEAT THE BLUES This deep, rich fabric is ready to make maximum impact in your home. Another key colour for 2022, the stellar-looking Steel Blue is dark and dramatic as well as calming and chic. snugsofa.com

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HOUSE && GARDEN GARDEN HOUSE

HANDSOME HOMEWARES: Beautiful buys for the home From practical to playful, decorative to dinky, here’s how to light up your world of interiors with these handsome homewares… Dachshund Planter, £50, Cox & Cox Puppy love… this sausage dog leads the way for planting succulents or herbs, side by side.

Habitat Kayleigh Drinks Trolley – Brass, £125 (other items from a selection, Habitat) Celebrating the art of the cocktail and home entertaining, a glitzy bar trolley can be staged with all your favourite spirits, wheeled out to add some razzmatazz to anything you proffer – and this one’s especially easy on the eye. Absolut Elyx Copper Coupes (280ml), £60, Absolut Elyx Boutique Chic copper coupes will make those celebratory champagne cocktails taste that much more special, in addition to being embellished with a winter wheat motif in tune with vodka martinis.

Arianna Deluxe Black Dressing Table with Hollywood Mirror Lights, £255, Carme Home Think Tinseltown glamour with LED lights and 10 large bulbs framing the adjustable mirror, this dreamy dressing table is a thing of beauty with wellorganised drawers and open compartments for all their bits and bobs. Plus, its accessorised with a matching stool with plush, padded seat. Just darling.

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Bronx 12-Piece Dinner Set, £52, Next One of the best tablescaping tricks of the trade, black stoneware tops the style stakes and makes anything you plate up look delicious. Includes four dinner plates, four side plates and four bowls.

Heather Office Chair, Ivory White Boucle & Brass, £159, Cult Furniture Cushy job… this elegant Scandi-style office chair upholstered in a chic ivory boucle comes with a choice of brass or chrome legs. There’s also the added bonus of hugging the contours of the body and wheels for easy movement. Royal Brierley Harris Ink Blue Spirit Decanter, £130, Large Tumbler, £50, Dartington Colourful crystal is trending and this inky blue spirit decanter boasts sweeping cuts which sparkle like a starry sky. Guaranteed to add more than a merry measure to happy hour celebrations and tempting tipples.

GPO 746 Rotary Retro Phone 1970s-style Landline Telephone with Curly Cord and Authentic Bell Ring – Carnation Pink, £47.99, Amazon Cute as candy, who wouldn’t want to be on the receiving end of this corded classic?

Rigaud Cyprès Candle, £70 (Large), Rigaud Paris Cited as the world’s first scented candle and hand-made in France, this green Rigaud candle’s inspired by the ‘richness of the Mediterranean forest,’ and offers crisp notes of pine needles, topped with lavender and warm woody scent of cedar wood. Oh là là.

ProCook Cast Iron Casserole, 24cm/4.7L Round Graduated Red, £64, ProCook The hardest working kit in the kitchen and a must for casseroles, Bolognese sauces, soups and comfort food, this cast iron dish is suitable for all hob types and oven safe. A great housewarming gift to stand the test of time with a 25-year guarantee. All over Pleated Velvet Duvet Cover and Pillowcase Set, from £50 to £80, Next Five-star style without the price tag but allimportant look of luxe. This lavish bed set features decorative pleating galore and you can always up the ante by splashing out on a glamorous faux fur throw for the finishing touch. JA M ANRUCAHR Y2 02 20 22 2 8277 5

HOUSE && GARDEN GARDEN HOUSE

Get The Bridgerton Look B

ridgerton is all about regency style and flamboyant details such as swags and tails, columns, urns brimming with blooms and feathers, fruit in elaborate metal bowls, French style furniture awash with gold elaborate acanthus carvings, ancestral oil paintings and spectacular glass chandeliers. Achieve this symbolic aesthetic in your home by styling large-scale urns with blooms and long leafy foliage in the centre of your dining table, and pair with French style carved gold chairs and sofas upholstered in silks or Regency stripe fabrics. In terms of colours, the palettes used within the drawing and dining rooms of the Bridgerton’s house meticulously resemble and exemplify the tones of the regency era: Wedgewood-esque pale blue damask panels with coordinating paint colours that symbolise the graciousness and elegance of the time, paired with pieces of dark wood furniture placed in a considered manner to break up the muted colours.

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Prestwood Home Improvements LTD Roofing & Building Developments The services provided range from all roof replacements and roofing repairs to installation of maintenance free UPVC roofline solutions consisting of UPVC fascias, soffits and guttering. 10 Year Guarantee for all New Roof Installations Comprehensive & Professional Service from Start to Completion. Fully Trained and Qualified in Installations of all roof Styles, including: Lean-to, Pitched and Flat, Utilizing a Broad Range of Materials. To Discuss Your Requirements, Contact the Experts for a Free No Obligation Assessment. 01494 264666 | 07402 817050 prestwoodhomeimprovements@gmail.com www.prestwoodhomeimprovementsltd.co.uk

GARDEN HHOUSE O U S E && G ARDEN

Paradise by the bathroom light:

Biophilic Tiles Inspired by Kew Gardens

new collection from independent tile specialists Porcelain Superstore is helping bring biophilia into the bathroom. The Paradise collection is a striking mosaicesque tile inspired by the flora and fauna of Kew Gardens and is perfect for homeowners looking to re-establish their connection with nature. Tranquil yet opulent, Paradise puts florals centre stage and offers a stunning alternative to the clinical tiles more often associated with the bathroom. Abbas Youssefi, Director of Porcelain Superstore, said: “Paradise is a showstopper of a tile. It’s bold, colourful and its subtle gloss glaze adds a touch of texture. Combine the detail with the subtle teal backdrop and this floral beauty ticks a lot of boxes.” This richly-patterned tile is the first of its kind for Porcelain Superstore, but Abbas believes it’s just the start of a new era in tile trends. Paradise Ceramic Tiles are £42 per m2 and available from porcelainsuperstore.co.uk 2 EB 9 40 4 MF A RRCUHA R2 Y 0 2220 2 2

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INTERIOR TREND: VERY PERI Interior companies are embracing the new Pantone Colour of the Year 2022

ELIZABETH OCKFORD Blue is such tranquil colour and this one has warm undertones to it – it reminds me of spring flowers – bluebells and Irises. It’s a hopeful colour- and we all need optimism now. Its so nice to see a real colour being chosen – I think it shows that we are all needing to be a little bit more daring and move ourselves out of the doldrums. elizabethockford.com

FURNITURE AND CHOICE Just as Pantone created Very Peri from scratch specially for the year ahead, channel that same curiosity and spirit of discovery in your home for a lively start to 2022. In the living room, use a light grey sofa as a chic yet grounding base for layering colours. Then introduce pops of carefree Very Peri through soft furnishings like cushions, artwork or pendant lights. “Match Very Peri with bright pastels like coral and turquoise and plenty of white to get a bright and creative space. furniturechoice.co.uk

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PASH CLASSICS Very Peri will be a beautiful accent colour for people’s homes. Interiors trends have shifted from the idea of minimalism to maximalism, Very Peri embodies this shift. For anybody who takes a bright and fun approach to interior design, we can see the colour being used a lot in 2022. pash-classics.com

SNUG SOFA This dynamic blue hue adds a pop of colour to neutral decor or a spontaneous addition to your playful home style. We have compiled a collection of blues that can both, pair well with this bold colour as well as substitute as an alternative blue staple. snugsofa.com

VICTORY COLOURS We’re all about lilac and purple hues here at Victory Colours, and have been predicting their comeback for the past few months. Harlech, and Crocus Field are flying off the shelves at the moment and our brand new Iris Pallida from the Addicted to Patterns Harmony 2022 Collection ticks all the periwinkle boxes. victorycolours.co.uk

LAKES & FELLS Very Peri is just what we needed coming out of the slumber of our post covid world. Vivacious and lively, the Periwinkle blue tone gives the warm feeling of new beginnings with the enthusiastic hope of the future with its red undertones. Being someone who loves vibrant prints, this is a great choice for Pantone color of the year! lakesandfells.co.uk

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BRIDGMAN

The colour purple has long been associated with Royalty therefore giving you the feeling of richness which will go hand in hand with the luxury, power and nobility that it emanates. Pantone’s Colour of the Year Very Peri is all of those things but also so much more, as the tone of purple chosen also reflects the spiritual side; it’s relaxing, soothing and a perfect balance. bobo1325.com

Invigorate your garden with Pantone’s 2022 Colour of the Year - Very Peri. Pair with elegant pieces in complementary shades. Cliveden Collection lounging and dining furniture is characterised by stunning handwoven Grey rattan and matching Grey Waterproof Cushions that complement each chair. Accessorise furniture from this collection with Very Peri inspired pieces to create a serene and calming outdoor space where you can relax and unwind. bridgman.co.uk MARCH 2022 93

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TOM RAFFIELD SPRING COLLECTION Thoughtfully designed to rest against your wall by a tan leather handle, the compact planter is perfect for showcasing your houseplants, herbs, or homegrown produce without taking up too much space. The Maya Wall Planter is well suited to living rooms, hallways, offices and kitchens and functions well as a standalone design or displayed in group formation.

VERSO WALL LIGHT

ustainably designed and handcrafted in South Cornwall, Tom Raffield designs are synonymous with nature; each product is handcrafted with utmost care and attention to detail. With a focus on refreshing homes with versatile, innovative designs, each of Raffield’s newest pieces can be adjusted to suit a myriad of interiors. “Our homes support us through our ever-changing daily routines, we seek to provide beautiful pieces that enhance our everyday, making each moment extraordinary through striking design”. - Tom Raffield, Founder.

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SEMPER LIGHTING RANGE The Semper Lighting Range, the first light to join Raffield’s collection that features a pivoting, fully adjustable ply-wood frame (which allows the user to customise the direction of the light in their home) is set to be a triumph. Centred around the Latin word for ‘always’, Semper’s shifting form and changeable lighting effects is representative of the seasonal movement and varying light levels of the Sun’s path. Inviting change with its tilting layers, Semper caters for multi-tasking modern spaces and passes the curation of home lighting to the hands of the user.

MAYA WALL PLANTER Introducing an exciting addition to Tom’s soughtafter Green Range, the Maya Wall Planter is the answer to spaces that are calling out for greenery but lack surface area to display indoor houseplants. A steam bent oval hoop of sustainable ash wood is skilfully forged together with a curved scarf join to provide strength and stability whilst gently cradling a tactile, hand-glazed earthenware bowl.

Complementing one of Tom’s newest lighting ranges, the Verso Wall Light brings wooden art forms to wall spaces. An ornate marriage of balance and light, the Verso Range is an asymmetrical wooden work of art that welcomes a fresh perspective. Forged from the Latin word to ‘spin’, the sculptural Verso Lighting Range calls back to nature and showcases the gravity defying, swooping motion of falling leaves in the wind. Igniting creativity within your space, the Verso Range looks different from every angle and exhibits its varying form to add playful personality to a wide range of interiors. Looping to create eye-catching asymmetry, the Verso Wall Light is carefully crafted from one continuous length of sustainably sourced FSC timber that soars around the warm glow of an exposed bulb to cast a beautiful blend of light and shadow. The innovative design can be positioned at different angles to create focused lighting within your space, from cosy reading corners and hardworking hallways to calming bedside spaces, its varying form adds playful personality to a wide range of interiors.

We replace only the clouded up panes not the frames. We also fix faulty locks, handles, hinges, fit new letterboxes & cat flaps.

For a Free Quote Call Paul: 07941 563 424 or email Cloud9.watford@gmail.com

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GET SUMMER

READY:

STUNNING

OUTDOOR TILES

ow is the perfect time to invest in a stylish, durable garden space before the summer arrives. Walls and Floors have a stunning selection of outdoor tiles, which will help you create the perfect garden space to relax and socialise! From porcelain paving slabs in a wide array of designs to outdoor split face tiles and seamless indoor/outdoor ranges, the outdoor collection has something for every outdoor project.

Porcelain Paving Slabs Porcelain paving slabs are the most popular format for outdoor tile design at the moment. Unlike traditional concrete slabs or decking, porcelain paving slabs have a printed surface, which opens them up to hundreds of design possibilities. Not only are they stylish, but they are one of the most practical options for outdoor areas as they provide a hardwearing, long-lasting base that is frost-proof and slip-resistant.

The Porcelain Paving Collection Icaria Porcelain Paving Slabs: With their gorgeous slate effect design and lifelike veining, Icaria is perfect for creating a natural-styled patio space where you can relax and unwind in the

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sunshine. Trax Porcelain Paving Slabs: Perfect for seamless living, Trax Porcelain Paving Slabs are also available in a thinner tile for indoor spaces. Minster Rustic Slate Effect Porcelain Paving Slabs: Alive with texture, Minster Porcelain Paving Slabs have a warming, rustic slate effect with their swirls of russet and greys. Clifton Porcelain Paving Slabs: Clifton offers a realistic stone effect design in a durable porcelain format, with a matching ceramic tile for seamless indoor/outdoor transitions. Calacatta Gold Porcelain Paving Slabs: For something a little more luxurious, why not try marble effect porcelain paving slabs? Inspired by sought after Calacatta marble, their golden veining will add the Midas touch to your outdoor area. Witton Porcelain Paving Slabs: The Witton collection carries a weathered, aged appearance that’s characteristic of natural stone. Walls and Floors also offer an extensive selection of external wall tiles for those looking to complete their garden transformation. From brick slip, to split face and natural wood effect, these wall tiles are perfect for creating a characterful design. wallsandfloors.co.uk

Windows Bi folding doors Panoramic sliding doors Composite doors Aluminium front doors Roof lanterns Flat roof lights Orangeries

NEW SHOWROOM Unity House, Chilton Road, Chesham HP5 2AT Free customer parking

01494 776242 www.window-wise.co.uk

info@window-wise.co.uk

HOUSE && GARDEN GARDEN HOUSE

GETTING SET W FOR SPRING

ith Spring just around the corner many of us are eager to get our homes “Spring ready”. There is just something about Spring that sparks joy. Maybe it’s the fact that Spring means that Summer days are a little closer or maybe it’s the sight of flowers starting to blossom again. Maybe it’s a combination of things one thing that I know for sure is that Spring is loved by many of us and that’s why we want to bring it into our homes. homepieces.co.uk

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PLOT OR NOT?

If you think your land or property has development potential. Why not give us a call without obligation and in confidence.

We are always on the lookout for land and property with development potential.

Commercial buildings for residential conversion, former public houses, redundant buildings for redevelopment, buildings for conversion or replacement, houses for improvement, large sites on the edge of town, barn conversions, large gardens in residential areas and major regeneration projects.

For more information contact Stephen Donnelly on: 07739 514350 01892 579937

sjd-projects.com steve@sjd-projects.com

Many of our clients retain our services and, in the majority of cases, pay our fees saving property owners significant costs.

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