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From the

EDITOR Welcome to our June edition

PUBLISHED BY FISH MEDIA GROUP LTD EDITOR Faye Manning

FASHION EDITOR Hazel Englander

SALES Patrick Smith

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER Roger Dowsett - 07904 251 973

EDITOR’S ASSISTANT

ACCOUNT/ADMIN Kathy Manning, Andree Georgiou

SUB EDITOR Chang Kaira

DIRECTORS Patrick Smith & Rory Smith

Jordie Fernley-Brown

DESIGN & PRODUCTION ProperGander Design - fishmediacreative@gmail.com © All Rights reserved: All Fish Media Group Ltd magazines are copyright and cannot be reproduced in any form either in part or whole without written permission from the publishers. Whilst Fish Media Group Ltd takes every reasonable precaution, no responsibility can be accepted for any property, services or products offered in any of our publications and any loss arising. Whilst every care is taken with all materials submitted to all of our magazines the publisher cannot accept the loss or damage to such material. The Fish Media Group Ltd reserves the right to reject or accept any advertisement, article or material prior to publication. Opinions expressed are strictly those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the views or policies of Fish Media Group Ltd. We accept no liability for any misprints or mistakes and no responsibility can be accepted for the content of these pages.

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HOUSE & GARDEN

PROPERTY LIFE

We put fantastic local businesses and exciting events in the spotlight each month, plus enjoy food and drink in the local area and investigate beautiful homes and properties. We are the proud publishers of this high quality group of magazines and are looking for two experienced telephone and face to face sales executives. We pay a high basic plus uncapped commission, on-going training and a real development to managing your own group of magazines. You must be enthusiastic, outgoing, confident and above all you must be able to sell. If you can really sell and want to be part of our expansion programme call Rory Smith on 0844 800 8439 or 07817 625568. To see the quality of our magazines and portfolio visit www.thelifemagazines.com

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A selection of the finest properties available to rent or buy in the county

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Common myths about divorce! Deciding whether your marriage has come to an end is one of the most difficult decisions you may ever have to make. If you’re contemplating a divorce it’s important to seek advice from a family lawyer as there are numerous myths surrounding family law, which can be misleading.

non-owning spouse’s interest in the property.

We explain five of the most common divorce myths:

3. My Pension will not be taken into account

1. Adultery has an impact on the division of assets The only ground for divorce in England and Wales is that the marriage has irretrievably broken down. Adultery is one of the facts that can be used to establish this. However, adultery will not have an effect on the division of the matrimonial assets. 2. A spouse has no rights to the former matrimonial home if they’re not the legal owner This is simply not the case. If you own the former matrimonial home, your spouse does have a right to occupy the property. The non-owning spouse is likely to register their home rights with the Land Registry. This ensures third parties, such as mortgage lenders or potential buyers, are notified of the

Whilst home rights don’t give a non-owning spouse a benenficial interest in the former matrimonial home, it’s likely to be considered as a matrimonial asset for the purposes of financial division.

This depends on the particular facts of the case. A pension can be a significant asset of a marriage. A number of factors will be taken into account when considering whether your spouse is entitled to a share of your pension and if so, the extent of that share. The factors include the length of the marriage, any period of cohabitation prior to marriage and any pension provision held by your spouse.

house the children. The Court will take into account a number of factors when deciding how the assets of the marriage should be divided including the financial resources and financial needs of both spouses. 5. All financial ties between spouses are cut once the Decree Absolute is pronounced This isn’t necessarily the case. The decree absolute legally ends your marriage, but unless you have a Court approved financial order, financial claims against former spouses remain open. It’s important to ensure that a financial settlement is reached and converted into a Court approved financial order, to prevent any future claims against income or assets that are obtained after the decree absolute.

4. The Court will award nothing to the non-resident parent

Offices in London and throughout the UK.

When dealing with financial remedy proceedings the first consideration of the Court is the welfare of any dependant children. However, it doesn’t automatically follow that a resident parent will be entitled to all of the assets of the marriage. The resident parent will usually need a property to

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ASPIRATIONAL STANDARD

Still Looking for a Kindergarten, Reception or School Place? Oak-Tree Schools Talk Going Private.

housands of local families have been finding out recently whether their child has got a place at their state school of choice.

National offer day for secondary schools was in March and for primary schools was in April. These are anxious times for parents as they find out which local schools their children have been allocated to and, sadly, not every child is successful. However, it is important not to stress if you are unhappy with your child’s state school place as there are other options available including going private. With independent school pupils three times more likely to achieve the top grades than state school pupils it is not surprising that many families opt to send their children to a good independent school. Places for these schools are not allocated in the same way as in the state and some may still have places available for September. Many also offer arrangements to spread fee payments. Private schools have better pupil to teacher ratios with smaller class sizes, and the perception of improved standards of behaviour and opportunities for personal development. Most independent schools should also take pride in how they communicate with parents and the best will aim for daily contact, albeit when handing over or picking up, and for regular emails, texts, newsletters, social media posts and accessibility through their websites or apps. An open door policy is crucial and teachers will be readily available for discussions about pupils’ progress.

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The Oak-Tree Group: A privately-owned group of local schools The Oak-Tree Group is made up of Braeside in Buckhurst Hill, Coopersale Hall in Epping, Normanhurst in North Chingford and Oaklands in Loughton. They all offer smaller, nurturing environments with a more personalised service and targeted support, each catering for between 200 and 300 pupils with average class sizes of between 12 and 18. Even at the Early Years stage, from ages 2½ to 5 specialist teaching in a number of areas greatly enhances the curriculum. The Oak-Tree Schools use the seven national Early Learning Goals as the basic level and enrich the children’s experiences through a range of other activities including weekly Dance, French, Computing, Music and PE lessons together with assemblies, performances, trips and outings. The same excellent teaching and positive ethos continues into the Seniors at Braeside and Normanhurst. The schools offer thorough preparation for GCSE and beyond, with many successful applications to local sixth forms and colleges. The curriculum is varied and challenging, enhanced by a wide range of trips and extra-curricular activities. Choosing the right school for your child is difficult, and it is important to make the right decision first time, which can be tricky if you’re unhappy with your state school place. An Oak-Tree education has become the standard to aspire to in the area and the schools will help you to make the right choices.

Choosing the right school for your child is difficult, and it is important to make the right decision first time THE DETAILS The Oak-Tree Group For more information about joining the Oak-Tree Group in 2020/2021 visit www.oaktreeschools.co.uk

Still looking for kindergarten, reception or school place for September 2020?

BRAESIDE SCHOOL

COOPERSALE HALL SCHOOL

Girls 2½ to 16 | 020 8504 1133

Girls and Boys 2½ to 11 | 01992 577133

Buckhurst Hill

Epping

OAKLANDS SCHOOL

NORMANHURST SCHOOL

Girls and Boys 2½ to 11 | 020 8508 3517

Girls and Boys 2½ to 16 | 020 8529 4307

Loughton

North Chingford

THE OAK-TREE GROUP OF SCHOOLS

Four privately-owned local independent schools make up the Oak-Tree Group: Braeside in Buckhurst Hill, Coopersale Hall in Epping, Normanhurst in North Chingford and Oaklands in Loughton. The schools are known for their outstanding teaching, excellent exam results and remarkable pastoral care. EARLY YEARS • INFANTS • JUNIORS • SENIORS

For more information www.oaktreeschools.co.uk

@OaktreeSchools

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New Faces join London Art Week for Summer 2020 Digital Event 3-10 July 2020

he innovative digital presentation of London Art Week Summer 2020, welcomes numerous new faces alongside familiar participants that have supported the event for many years. In response to the global Covid-19 situation, London Art Week has created a new online space for dealers to work together, preserving the collegiate nature of the event which embraces auction houses and which is supported by museum partners and art world sponsors. Among new London-based dealers taking part in London Art Week this summer is Stuart Lochhead Sculpture, Osborne Samuel, Panter & Hall, Benjamin Proust Fine Art, and Offer Waterman. Sladmore Gallery and Philip Mould & Company return after a few years. Works for sale span 5000 years of art, from ancient Egypt to Modern British, with an emphasis on Old and Modern Masters, offered by the world’s most respected fine art galleries. Some 50 exhibitors have been confirmed to date. International newcomers include Galerie Canesso and Jacques Leegenhoek from Paris, Nicolás Cortés Gallery of Madrid, Daxer & Marschall and Arnoldi-Livie. of Munich, and, from Italy, dealers such as Walter Padovani of Milan with sculpture, Antichita Alberto di Castro of Rome with works of art, Bottegantica of Bologna with Italian art and Enrico Ceci Cornici Antiche

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of Modena with fine antique frames. Dealer pages on the London Art Week website will house up to 25 works per gallery, and there is provision in LAW DIGITAL for supporting material such as videos, film clips, essays and exhibition catalogues. At the time of writing, it is hoped some of the London-based dealers may be able to open their galleries too. A comprehensive digital catalogue will accompany London Art Week Summer 2020. A major feature is a new series of mixed, curated Viewing Rooms where works from a cross-section of participants will be shown side by side, a new way for dealers to be discovered by a world-wide audience.

THE DETAILS The Viewing Rooms go live from 3-10 July, with an invitation-only Private View on 2 July. Further news and developments for London Art Week Summer 2020 will be announced soon Join the London Art Week community: register at www.londonartweek.co.uk to receive communications about Summer 2020.

images from: trinity Fine art, Klaas Muller, tomasso brothers Fine art and stephen ongpin Fine art

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14 JUNE 2020

TIME FOR A COCKTAIL? Scrutton Bland tax partner Faye Howard contemplates some of the things the lockdown has prompted her to review her finances. Just don’t ask her about espresso martinis...

oday is the 60th day of lockdown. That represents 41 days working from home during which I have consumed my own bodyweight in chocolate, crisps, coffee and Diet Coke….. Several times over…… It seems that my periodic trips to colleagues’ desks to chat things through have been replaced by frighteningly regular trips to the fridge. In fact, I’m slightly concerned that even though it’s only 18 months old, the door hinges may be nearing the end of their life. I’m not sure the use it was likely to get during lockdown was taken into account in its testing! On the plus side, thanks to being at home all day, I’ve never had so many clean clothes at one time, however another negative is that my weekly treat of an espresso martini on a Friday is apparently now an everyday occurrence... Although technically it is mainly coffee... As well as actual laundry, one thing lockdown has given me the chance to do is some ‘life laundry’. I can’t remember the last time I reviewed the various small direct debits that leave my account every month, but having done this very recently, I was amazed by how much they add up to, and the extra time at home gave me the opportunity to look at what I really need/want and what I don’t. As a firm we are seeing a similar trend with our clients as a number have asked to have their Tax Returns or accounts prepared earlier than usual this year so that they know where they stand financially. This is certainly something we would encourage, as whilst the Government has introduced some incredibly helpful measures to help individuals and businesses survive this pandemic in the best possible shape, the current deferred VAT and July Income Tax payments on account will still need to be paid next year. Quantifying any tax liabilities and managing your cashflow is therefore incredibly important. Equally, now is a good time to review pension arrangements. Do you perhaps have a number of smaller pensions which could benefit from consolidation, or is it perhaps time to review

Whilst this pandemic has undoubtably had some horrendous consequences for a huge number of people, it has to a large degree also pressed a ‘reset button’ and made us focus on what is important to us whether your pension is likely to be sufficient for the retirement you envisage? And what about your investment charges? Are they higher than you thought they were, and if so, is it time to change platforms to reduce them? For anyone looking at Inheritance Tax planning, again now could be the ideal time, as with supressed asset values, if gifting is the right strategy for you, the current circumstances could represent an opportunity to pass assets on whilst values are low, so that any bounceback in values and future growth occurs in the hands of your intended beneficiaries rather than yours. Whilst this pandemic has undoubtably had some horrendous consequences for a huge number of people, it has to a large degree also pressed a ‘reset button’ and made us focus on what is important to us. For any financial matters which are important to you, Scrutton Bland are able to offer professional, independent, joined up advice to help you set and attain your financial goals.

THE DETAILS Should you wish to discuss any aspects of your financial affairs with us, please contact Faye at hello@scruttonbland.co.uk or telephone 0330 058 6559 Scrutton Bland have also created a number of helpful guides to help businesses and individuals with financial planning relating to the coronavirus pandemic, including grants, loans, VAT deferral and tax. See www.scruttonbland.co.uk Scrutton Bland Financial Services Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority

JUNE 2020 15

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INTERVIEW

GAYLE’S SECRET – WHO CAN YOU TRUST? Roger Dowsett of Fish Media Group talks with local writer – Michelle B. Harris

s the world entered into lockdown, Michelle finished her latest novel. Needing a clear head to tie-up the characters and various themes, silence was essential in order to strategically develop the complicated twist. Ironically, the book was drafted nearly eighteen months ago but events, current politics and debate, fitted in perfectly with the plot. Roger: Well I thoroughly enjoyed the book. It’s pacy, racy and certainly kept me fascinated. You referred to coronavirus and incorporated what’s happening right now. It was as if you wrote the book in a week! Michelle: As the book is futuristic, it would lose credibility if coronavirus wasn’t an essential element. I had to rewrite large sections in order to incorporate but it fitted in perfectly with the plot – in fact it helped to develop it and gave extra credibility to the twist. Roger: Tell me about the protagonist so the readers have an overview? Michelle: The protagonist Gayle Fortingham is the woman who appears to have it all but she’s cracking under the pressure. The book is her journey, acceptance of herself and how to balance her family and corporate life. And then she succumbs to temptation and a one-night stand… That is the precedent for how the story develops. Roger: And a summary of the background? Michelle: Set in a quintessential English village, the characters all appear to be content and comfortable. But once you look behind the closed doors and into their hidden worlds, you see dysfunction, manipulation and that our perceptions of a perfect world are not realistic. There are always so many secrets. The book explores people’s need for love and a physical relationship but this basic necessity involves trust and once you open up your life to another person, do you become vulnerable? Roger: Agreed on all points. And when you’re vulnerable, I suppose what happens next? Michelle: Yes. When certain people have an agenda and you trust them, it can empower their ability to manipulate. Life and the dynamics of relationships are changing. Also the impact of AI and technology within our lives both professionally and personally. 16 JUNE 2020

Once you look behind the closed doors and into their hidden worlds, you see dysfunction, manipulation and that our perceptions of a perfect world are not realistic Roger: I really enjoyed your incorporation of the robots. Michelle: The book raises questions because it’s already happening. In some countries, people are having relationships with robots… What’s the next step? And are we made vulnerable? Roger: Well I loved it and recommend. Certainly got me thinking and I see the world very differently now. Good Luck Michelle from all of us at Fish Media.

THE DETAILS Gayle’s Secret – Who Can You Trust? By Michelle B. Harris is available on Amazon in paperback and on Kindle. If you would like Michelle to speak at a Book Club or event, please contact her at Michelle@starcopywriting.com

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ARTIST TEODORA NINOVA:

A Vibrant Story Of Life’s Hidden Beauty author: constanza ontivEros valdés

eodora Ninova’s ethereal abstract paintings are a haven for beauty, serenity, and contemplation. The self-taught craft of this London-based artist from Bulgarian origins is rooted in the abstract tradition and is coloured by a lively palette that speaks to the forces of nature, the multifaceted layers of human emotion, and our deepest fibres. Ninova’s compositions are populated by vibrant, con-trasting, and expressive brushstrokes that bear both a luminous and translucent quality. While each of her works is unique, Teodora’s paintings are created in series or collections revolving around a far-reaching theme that lends visible the transformational potential of art and hence of life experiences however challenging they are. By embracing the positives in life’s challenges, we can find peace and see - the otherwise hiddenflowers blossom in our souls. In Thich Nhat Hanh’s words, “without mud, there can be no lotus.”

“While each of her works is unique, Teodora’s paintings are created in series or collections revolving around a far-reaching theme” Most of Ninova’s works are abstract, nonetheless, some of the themes the artist has explored do include a symbolically-charged figurative component, such as a heart or butterfly, that weave on the artist’s driving forces: nature, emotion, joy, and personal growth. An open heart relates to love yet it also connects to compassion, 20 june 2020

hope, and forgiveness, being a source of inner power and creativity; while the butterfly represents transformation and reinvention of oneself. The spiritual potential of art is also present at Ninova’s latest series, Tranquillity, now available at www.teodoraninova.com with a 15% discount for first-time buyers. This series hold a special place in the artist’s heart given it has been developed while she has been isolated due to the pandemic. During these difficult times, the artist found inspiration in the breathtaking forms that nature takes and that she has witnessed whether it be the sea, a forest, a tree, or a flower. Thusly, this series is comprised of a palette of greens contrasted with lively colours such as pink, yellow, purple, or blue overlapped with white brushstrokes. This series brings to mind the playful lights that reflect on the leaves of a tree or the waves at different times of the day, particularly, during sunrise or sunset. This collection reminds us to appreciate the unnoticed beauty and joy that lie around us and, more importantly, deep within ourselves. Ninova’s intuitive working process is pivotal to creating the aforementioned series. It is nurtured by an ongoing hands-on experimentation with materials such as acrylic, hard/soft gels, and spray paints. Teodora creates each work by first relying on intuition for uncovering what composition emerges and then confidently applying thin and fluid layers of colour that grant her canvases a translucent and ethereal quality. The artist’s gestures are subtle yet powerful, they allow the colours to interact and react to each other resulting in strikingly vibrant and balanced paintings that open up a portal to pure beauty. For more info: www.teodoraninova.com or IG: @teodora.ninova_art

LOVE LOCAL

CAPTAIN TOM MOORE ON THE SECRET TO LIVING A

LONG AND HAPPY LIFE

Liz connor speaks to the 100-year-old war veteran about how his love for walking and his eternal optimism have kept both his mind and spirit young.

hen Captain Tom Moore embarked on a personal challenge to complete 100 laps of the garden in his Bedfordshire home before his 100th birthday, he was hoping he might garner enough local support to raise a modest £1,000 for the NHS. What happened next, his daughter Hannah recalls, was ‘unimaginable’. Clutching his walking frame for support and proudly wearing his WW2 medals, the war veteran’s steely determination to keep lapping his garden, come rain or shine, quickly captured the hearts of well-wishers worldwide. Donations, tributes and national news interviews poured in. By the time his 100th birthday (marked with a Spitfire flyover and more than 120,000 cards from fans around the globe) came around, Captain Moore’s status as a national hero was cemented. His JustGiving page has raised an incredible £32 million in donations, while the charity single he released with Michael Ball made him the oldest artist to claim a UK No 1. “I had no idea it would be that popular,” says 22 JUNE 2020

“As I walk, I often think about the [lyrics to the song] Michael Ball and I released, ‘walk on, walk on, with hope in your heart’. As the kind people kept donating and donating, not just locally, but throughout the world, I kept going. It was the reason why I go on walking and enjoy every step.”

Captain Moore of his fundraising effort. “It was just [an idea] within the family initially - walking up and down for exercise - but then it just grew and grew.” “We’re just an ordinary family really. We knew we had a lovely story to share, and we shared it with the world willingly,” says Hannah, who initially put together a short press release about her father’s charity walk, which was in tribute to the NHS nurses who cared for him after he fractured his hip two years ago. “We thought that maybe local radio that would be interested and that it would be great to raise a thousand pounds. The extraordinary journey we’ve gone through the last five or six weeks could never have been imagined.” Despite being 100, and having battled various health issues over the years, Moore says there was “no real hardship” in reaching his extended goal of 200 laps. In fact, he very much enjoyed the challenge. “The first lap was the hardest, but after that I just got used to it,” he says, with his trademark good humour. “As I walk, I often think about the [lyrics to the song] Michael Ball and I released, ‘walk on, walk on, with hope in your heart’. As the kind people kept donating and donating, not just locally, but throughout the world, I kept going. It was the reason why I go on walking and enjoy every step.” When it comes to living a long and happy life, Moore says it’s all about having the right mindset. “I think you’ve got to be optimistic; to think that things will get better.” “I don’t think anyone really thinks about [getting to 100],” he adds. “When I was 50, I never would have imagined that I was half way through my life. Now that I’m 100 though, it doesn’t feel any different from 99. I’m very pleased that I’ve got to this age though and it’s just a case of seeing how much longer I can hang on.” Staying fit and healthy seemingly comes naturally to him too, as his unflappable zest for life has kept both his mind and body young. “I’ve never been someone that’s sat around. All my life, from being a boy, I’ve always been active and doing things. Before I had trouble with my leg, I spent so much time in the garden. I weigh the same now as I did when I was 21.” Moore, who was born in 1920 in Keighley, Yorkshire, embarked on an apprenticeship as a Civil Engineer as a young man, but paused his studying at the age of 20, when he was conscripted to fight in World War Two. Joining the 8th Battalion of The Duke of Wellington’s Regiment, the young soldier was stationed in Cornwall, where he helped to defend the coast from the threat of German invasion. Later, he was enlisted to India, taking a treacherous six week journey by sea, and he also served and fought on the Arakan in Burma, where he battled through jungle to reach the frontline by motorcycle, defending the British colony from the

Japanese. Did he ever fear for his life while fighting for his country? “I don’t think so,” he recalls. “When you’re in the army and you’re 20-years-old. you’re not thinking too much about being in danger. It’s part of the adventure of life. I don’t recall ever being frightened. Maybe I should have been! But we survived. “I look back on my service in the army as a very enjoyable time and I still think about it now. There was so much comradeship between us. If I was capable, I’d do the same thing all over again.” He continues to add: “I think things have changed considerably for young people. Before World War Two there was a certain degree of poverty and people were finding life very difficult. At the present time, people are still finding it difficult, but it’s not as hard now as it was then. We still need to continue this life with hope and think that tomorrow is going to be as good a day as possible. That’s always been my mantra.” Recently, Moore announced he will publish two books, one of which will be an autobiography, in support of his new charity, the Captain Tom Foundation. The second will be a children’s book. “I never thought anyone would be interested in my story and I certainly didn’t think it would ever go into print,” he chuckles. “I’m a bit frightened about telling all my secrets!” He continues: “I’m a very slow writer though, so maybe I need someone [to help] to speed [it] up a bit for me. “ I ask him what he thinks about the growing public petition for him to be awarded a knighthood for his valiant fundraising efforts. He laughs: “I think that’s an excellent idea, but I don’t think there’s the slightest chance that it’s going to happen. Sir Thomas Moore would sound very good, but don’t hold your breath!” As for his next goal? “I need to live a little bit longer, so I can read back all of these books I’m writing,” he jokes. Captain Tom Moore’s autobiography Tomorrow Will Be A Good Day and his children’s picture book are available to pre-order now (Michael Joseph, PRH) JUNE 2020 23

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Serenity, lightness & delicacy N

orth London artist Lorna Doyan has built a reputation creating affordable three dimensional sculptural butterfly artworks, which are collected across the globe and commissioned by top interior designers. Butterflies are seen and revered for their serenity, lightness & delicacy as symbols of freedom, hope & optimism. This is one of the reasons we are drawn to Lorna’s creations. With the likelihood that more of us are set to increase our working time at home even after COVID, it is no wonder that people are drawn to buy art as part of improving their home environment. Lorna has seen demand for her works grow significantly whilst the world has been in Lockdown and continues to sell limited editions and build bespoke commissions for her clients. Working with the richest assortment of cards & papers, glitters & sheens and even photographs, she either hand cuts or utilises di-cutters to create and shape all of her butterfly creations. Lorna loves the precious and reflective qualities of 24k gold leaf and always tries to integrate this and uses genuine silver and copper leaf butterflies in her works. The 3 dimensional aspect gives her works movement and texture where light and shadow can change a piece depending on the time of day or the direction you’re looking at it. In fact as darkness falls and new shadows are cast you will always find something new to draw you in. Lorna spent her formative career in the buying & merchandising departments at Habitat and

24 june 2020

“Lorna has seen demand for her works grow significantly whilst the world has been in Lockdown and continues to sell limited editions and build bespoke commissions for her clients”

subsequently at Harrods sourcing home brands and finally shaping their Interior Design department. But eventually it was the call of a young family that caused her to leave that behind and embark on a new chapter as an artist, initially creating artworks for friends and her demand spring boarded from there. Artfinder.com gallery was the first to promote her and she soon amassed a loyal following of collectors from all over the world. Artfinder regularly accredit Lorna as a ‘Global One to Watch’ and ‘Best Investment Opportunity’ given how her pieces have appreciated in recent years and she has over 100 five-star reviews. Lorna still sells her affordable designs and gifts far and wide; but she is more likely to be asked to create bespoke statement pieces with hand-picked colours and backgrounds, created specifically to suit a space or personalised pieces using photographs or meaningful words that will be treasured for a lifetime. Lorna invites clients to her studio in Crouch End North London where she lives with her husband and two - now teenage children - and five (yes 5) adored cats. Family and home come first but when asked what motivates her art she’s quick to say ‘colour and form’ and ‘creating the perfect artwork that complements the person and the space, something that is loved and treasured for a lifetime’. For more information and to buy, visit lornadoyan.co.uk or follow her latest projects on Instagram @lornadoyan.

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Monaco Yacht Show 2020 A superyacht industry support show. september 23 – 26, 2020, Port hercule, Monaco

he Principality of Monaco and Informa have announced a secure, not-for-profit event in 2020 They have confirmed they are working together to deliver an intimate, not-for-profit Monaco Yacht Show in Port Hercule in September 2020, with full details to be announced in the coming weeks. The proposed event will employ the highest standards of hygiene and cleanliness and be dedicated to supporting the speedy recovery of the industry post COVID-19, providing an invaluable platform for designers, brokers, shipyards and other key players within the yachting industry to connect with their customers and share ideas in a safe environment.

Return & Recovery post the COVID-19 Pandemic Like most industries, the COVID-19 pandemic has had a marked impact on the international yachting community, with many businesses temporarily closed and staff furloughed, and the usual annual cycle of industry activity severely disrupted. As countries and locations around the world gradually relax lockdown restrictions and ease control measures, it is imperative that the superyacht community is supported in every way possible to help the industry return and recover safely and quickly.

The 30th Monaco Yacht Show in September 2020 With this in mind, The Monaco Yacht Show has been working closely with the Principality of Monaco to determine how best to support the industry in 2020. This year’s Monaco Yacht Show is scheduled from 23 to 26 September. With control measures steadily being relaxed in Monaco, around Europe and internationally, on current course and speed, this should allow for a carefully staged event to still take place this year. Therefore, it is our intention to retain these dates for the 2020 Monaco Yacht Show and work with

26 JUNE 2020

suppliers and local authorities over the coming weeks to confirm full details of the event. In the spirit of the history and position of the event within the superyacht industry, the 30th Monaco Yacht Show will be run on a not-for-profit basis, recognizing the challenges facing everyone post the COVID-19 pandemic and, therefore, providing direct support to all attendees and exhibitors from across the market. Whilst the intimate nature of the 2020 event will prioritize the safety of participants, both Informa and the Monaco Principality are committed to ensuring the quality of the event and show experience is maintained for everyone. Charlie McCurdy, Chief Executive, Informa Markets (organiser of the Monaco Yacht Show) said, “The COVID-19 pandemic has had a devastating impact on all industries, not least the international yachting community. As we move to the other side of the pandemic, all parts of the industry need to work collaboratively to ensure a speedy return and recovery. We are playing our part by hosting a notfor-profit Monaco Yacht Show in 2020, providing an opportunity for the community to come together, share ideas, meet with customers and start to rebuild positive momentum.” www.monacoyachtshow.com

“The Monaco Yacht Show has been working closely with the Principality of Monaco to determine how best to support the industry in 2020”

LOVE LOACL

INSPIRATIONAL VIRTUAL MUSEUM TOURS Here’s how to enjoy world-class collections from home, says SaraH MarSHall.

uring times of difficulty, arts and culture can help us make sense of a confused reality, offering refreshing perspectives and sharing lessons from the past. There’s something reassuringly therapeutic about exploring a gallery, even if you’re clueless about the works on display; for a few hours, it’s possible to get lost in another world. While physical visits are temporarily off-limits, there’s still a chance to peruse permanent collections and temporary exhibitions from the safety of your home. From top institutions to emerging collectives, curatorial teams have flexed their creative muscles to allow access online. Click open virtual vaults to uncover dusty artefacts, or brush up on modern history through interactive displays. Best of all, there’s no entrance fee and you can wander freely without any crowds.

1. The Metropolitan Museum Of Art, New York, USA Best for... mixing art with architecture So many of the world’s greatest museums are housed within buildings as beautiful as the art they display. Celebrating its 150th anniversary this year, New York’s premier arts institution, The Met, has published a series of 360- degree videos offering visitors unique views and access to areas they might otherwise miss (even if lockdown wasn’t in place). Explore the neoclassical grandeur of The Great Hall, admire fragments of the Nubian Temple of Dendur set around a shimmering pool in The Sackler Wing, and discover The Met Cloisters, an enchanting branch of the museum located in 28 JUNE 2020

northern Manhattan, overlooking the Hudson River, with a focus on medieval European art. Audio guides to current exhibitions are also available online. Discover the stories behind landmark works by Rembrandt and Vermeer as part of the In Praise of Painting: Dutch Masterpieces At The Met exhibition. How: Visit metmuseum.org

2. British Museum, London, UK Best for... unearthing great facts Had you snuck into this grand dame museum at the beginning of lockdown, you’d probably still be making your way around displays. The sprawling

“The Met, has published a series of 360- degree videos offering visitors unique views and access to areas they might otherwise miss”

mass of exotic finds and controversial treasures demands hours of attention; impossible to absorb in one visit, there’s always something new to find. As part of their online The Museum Of The World project, navigate key pieces via a nifty interactive grid, divided by geographical continent and historic period and connected by surprising, hidden links. Spiral back to 2000 BC to find how the Babylonians in Iran analysed sheep liver in the same way a fortune teller reads tea leaves, and discover the African origins of Kozo, the doubleheaded dog. How: Visit britishmuseum.withgoogle.com

Sir David Attenborough, who has voiced several audio guides for the Natural History Museum in London.

lofty, academic discourse and jaw-droppingly expensive exhibits, this ever-evolving, crowdsourced collection features everyday items donated by members of the public. People are invited to offload trinkets, talismans and any symbolic items relating to failed relationships as a cathartic means to dust off the past and move on. Although it has permanent galleries in LA and Zagreb, from the outset, the museum was built with a virtual space in mind; users can time-lock painful memories in a vault or share their own bust-up stories and images online. Many items from the collection are also virtually view-able - from entwined claddagh rings deposited by a distraught, jilted girlfriend, to a stolen scrap of belly button fluff shared to defiantly stick two fingers up at an ex. How: Visit brokenships.com/explore

5. Natural History Museum, London, UK

3. Canadian Museum For Human Rights, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada Best for... opening your mind Perhaps one of the greatest lessons we can draw from this global pandemic is the value of kindness and respect shared between strangers. The need for greater equality is a battle that’s been fought throughout history with varying degrees of success; looking back at achievements and failures could help us understand where we need to go next. The world’s only museum dedicated to global human rights features stories, exhibits and tools to inspire and educate future activists. Download their app to tour two current exhibitions: Proclamation 1982 explains the background to a groundbreaking document which would grant every person in Canada stronger human rights, and Ododo Wa: Stories of Girls In War traces the harrowing ordeal of two young Ugandan girls kidnapped by rebel group, The Lord’s Resistance Army. How: Visit humanrights.ca. App available at the AppStore or GooglePlay.

Best for... nerding out on nature Right now, it feels like humanity is at the centre of the universe; in reality, we’re dwarfed by the magnificence of our natural world. Nowhere is that story better told than the Natural History Museum, where inhabitants of land, sea, air - and even space have starring roles. Spanning 25.2 metres, the skeleton of Hope the blue whale wows visitors when they enter the grand Hintze Hall. While it’s impossible to appreciate the marine mammal’s scale from a computer screen, an interactive online display shares several fascinating facts about the creature. Venturing further into the museum, there’s a chance to zoom in on cabinets of beetles and flick through images on display in the popular Wildlife Photographer Of The Year exhibition. Other areas can be explored through audio guides narrated by David Attenborough, whose authoritative, familiar tones provide soothing relief to these troubled days. How: Visit nhm.ac.uk/visit/virtual-museum. html

4. Museum Of Broken Relationships, LA, USA, and Zagreb, Croatia Best for... life lessons Proof not all museums and galleries revolve around JUNE 2020 29

LOVE L OC AL

INNOVATIVE ART SOLUTIONS

Expert art consultant Louisa Warfield delights with innovative art solutions for residential and commercial interior spaces

ouisa Warfield is an expert in her field, dedicated to sourcing contemporary artwork – both emerging talent and more established artists - to bring joy, excitement and energy to interior walls. Working on a one to one basis with individual clients, interior designers and architects, Warfield’s approachable, straight-talking style has gained her an extensive portfolio of delighted clients who appreciate her design-led eye to guide them through their projects. Warfield states; “First and foremost I curate art collections for clients which they will love for years to come. Having been a consultant for over 15 years now, I am well placed to also advise on emerging talent and on what might prove to be a wise investment, although of course this is never a guarantee.” Louisa Warfield provides a tailored range of bespoke services to suit her clients’ individual needs and budgets: • Advise on how to hang existing artwork in

30 JUNE 2020

residential or commercial spaces. Rehanging a current collection can really reinvigorate a space, breathing new life and energy into a home or office. • The Salon Wall concept – hanging multiple artworks at various heights and formations to create an interplay of artworks. This popular concept originated in Paris in the 19th century when aspiring artists showed their work at the Paris Salon. • Sourcing new works of art for interior spaces, often taking inspiration from a colour scheme, fabric or location, the solution is always entirely personal to the client. Clients are often surprised to find that using Warfield’s art consultancy services is very reasonable. Prices start from just £150 for 10 ideas for a space or for a two hour consultation. A passionate collector herself, Warfield can often be found trawling the international art fairs and degree shows and visiting artists’ studios. And it’s this love and enthusiasm for art which she pours into each and every project. www.louisawarfieldart.com

“Louisa Warfield provides a tailored range of bespoke services to suit her clients’ individual needs and budgets”

䠀攀愀氀琀栀礀栀漀甀猀攀猀椀渀猀瀀椀爀攀搀戀礀一漀爀搀椀挀渀愀琀甀爀攀圀䔀䈀唀䤀䰀䐀䠀䤀䜀䠀儀唀䄀䰀䤀吀夀䰀伀䜀䠀伀唀匀䔀匀䘀伀刀䴀伀刀䔀伀刀䜀䄀一䤀䌀Ⰰ 䠀䔀䄀䰀吀䠀夀 ☀ 䔀䌀伀䰀伀䜀䤀䌀䄀䰀䰀䤀嘀䤀一䜀

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礀攀愀爀猀

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栀漀渀欀愀⸀挀漀⸀甀欀

LOVE LOCAL

80th annivErsarY

The terror of London: The Blitz september 1940–June 1941

t 4:56pm on September 7, 1940, 300 German bombers raid London in the first of 57 consecutive nights of bombing until 7 November. The German air force had changed its strategy of bombing the British Air Force (Battle of Britain) and began to set their sights on destroying the capital. London had nine million people a fifth of the British population – living in an area of 750 square miles. The first day of the Blitz - as it became known in the British press, was called Black Saturday as 448 people were killed, many thousands were injured and many building were destroyed. Water and gas pipes throughout the East End were fractured, as were electricity and telephone cables. The primary target at this stage was not the civilian population but, given that employees lived near the docks and factories, the ‘collateral damage’ in terms of lives and homes was appalling. London was bombed daily except, amazingly, on Christmas or Boxing Day 1940, but on 29 December the Luftwaffe returned with over 300 incendiaries dropped in a minute around St Paul’s Cathedral. Miraculously, the symbol of London’s defiance, survived. The people of Britain did expect to be bombed by Germanyso the government did several things in preparation: • Everyone was given a gas mask. It was thought that the bombs might contain poisonous gas and the gas mask would protect the wearer from the deadly fumes. Children were issued with what became known as “Mickey Mouse” gas masks – the nickname an attempt to make the gas masks seem less scary. 32 june 2020

• Children were evacuated to rural locations considered to be safe. Evacuation was voluntary, but the fear of bombing and the closure of many urban schools helped persuade families to send their children away to live with strangers. • Lots of city hospitals were cleared so that they were ready to treat people who had been injured in the air raids. A task repeated recently with the devastating Covid 19 pandemic. Many that survived the Second World War are making comparisons. • Public air raid shelters were built as a place of safety with people building their own shelters in their gardens. No one could sleep easy in their beds, so virtually took up residence. Anderson Shelters were half buried in the ground to protect them from bomb blasts. These were made from six corrugated iron sheets bolted together at the top, with steel plates at either end, and measured 6ft 6in by 4ft 6in. The entrance was protected by a steel shield and an earthen blast wall. The people of London also started to use the London Underground as a giant air raid shelter. About 150,000 people a night slept in the Underground, Volunteers sometimes handed out hot drinks to boost morale. Entertainment included concerts, films, plays and books from local libraries. Organisations such as the British Red Cross and the Salvation Army worked to improve conditions. About 60,000 slept in the underground tunnels themselves, which soon became cramped and smelly. Even the tunnels weren’t safe from the

“Public air raid shelters were built as a place of safety with people building their own shelters in their gardens”

German bombs. At least one station was hit directly, killing many of the Londoners who were sheltered inside. In March 1943, 173 men, women and children were crushed to death at Bethnal Green tube station in a panic after a woman fell down the steps as she entered the station. • Blackout regulations were imposed nationally on 1 September 1939 to prevent the Germans seeing our towns from above. This meant that all sources of light had to be blacked out. Windows were covered in the dark material. Car headlamps were also blacked out, causing many accidents, and people were not even allowed to smoke cigarettes or cigars outdoors. • Warning! British air raid sirens sounded for the first time 22 minutes after Neville Chamberlain declared war on Germany. Although bombing attacks unexpectedly did not begin immediately. When the first German bombers were spotted, a siren was started, known as ‘Wailing Winnie’ or ‘Moaning Minnie’ because of its ululating notes. This was incredibly loud, Air raid wardens used wooden rattles to warn people of danger and help to lead them towards the air raid shelters. On 15th October, listeners to a BBC news bulletin hear a crash as a bomb falls on Broadcasting House. Presenter Bruce Belfrage merely pauses before carrying on. The nightly BBC news bulletin at nine o’clock was a fixed feature in people’s lives. Programmes went off air during raids, and the eerie fading of the radio was an early sign of an impending attack. The Blitz removed barriers between men and women. With so many men in the services, several essential roles necessary to keep London safe now fell to women. Women took on roles such as ambulance drivers, air raid wardens and munitions workers. The worst air raid on London during the Blitz took place on 10-11 May 1941. The larger incidents took place at House of Commons with the raging fire causing the roof to collapse, the District Line Railway near Ebury Street, Hallam Street, New Bond Street, the Queen’s Hall, the Turner Buildings and Westminster Abbey. It inflicted the highest number of casualties of any single night raid of the London Blitz: 1,436 Londoners killed and over 2,000 others seriously injured. The bombing lasted nearly seven hours. British anti-aircraft batteries and RAF night fighters managed to shoot down 33 planes, but despite their best efforts it was one of the most destructive raids of the war. It was entirely rational to be afraid during the Blitz. But there was little medical help for people suffering mental anguish. But according to Anna Freud, London civilians surprisingly did not suffer from widespread shell shock. Clinics opened to receive mental casualties of the attacks closed due to lack of need. Although the stress of the war resulted in many anxiety attacks, eating disorders, fatigue, weeping, miscarriages, and other physical and mental ailments, society did not collapse.

The cheerful crowds visiting bomb sites were so large they interfered with rescue work, pub visits increased in number (beer was never rationed), and 13,000 attended cricket at Lord’s. People left shelters when told instead of refusing to leave, although many housewives reportedly enjoyed the break from housework. Some people even told government surveyors that they enjoyed air raids if they occurred occasionally, perhaps once a week. There would be other serious raids, but as Hitler prepared to turn east to invade Russia, the Blitz on Britain was over. The Germans had failed to break the will of the British people.

june 2020 33

HOUSE &

GARDEN sPonsorEd BY

Expert property solicitors for all aspects of residential conveyancing. www.slatergordon.co.uk/property

–- Keep it local for everything house and home -– I M AGiEM: a Og R IEG: Ic NhLaE P I SlUi n R Es

HOUSERENOVATION & GARDEN HOME

The value of sWimming finding your best self with origin

rigin knows that a swimming pool can not only add value to your home but to your home life as well. Swimming remains one of the most popular activities across the country, with its physical and mental health benefits exceeding expectation. In fact, a recent SwimEngland study found that those who swim regularly felt on average 12 years younger than those that don’t. The movement of water over your body creates a massaging sensation which encourages you to relax, just being in water increases blood flow to the brain, boosting your brain health, releasing endorphins and increasing your overall mood. For anyone wanting to take the plunge with the ultimate home life improvement, there are some key points to consider.

What are the benefits? “Health is a state of body, wellness is a state of mind” Swimming has many benefits, as well as the obvious it improves quality of sleep and reduces symptoms of anxiety and depression. Origin believes owning a pool is about more than the pool 5 UN 3 88 JJ U N EE 220 02 20 0

“health is a state of body, wellness is a state of mind”

itself, by adding a spa, sauna or yoga room your swimming pool and pool house could be a centre of wellness. If you’re looking to increase family time, your pool house could become a new social hub for everyone to enjoy by adding a gym, lounge area or even a bar. Whilst jumping in can seem daunting, making the decision can bring measurable benefits. A new pool from Origin provides new ways of having fun, spending precious time together as a family, even making a staycation more appealing.

Can it be eco friendly? If you’re concerned about the environmental impact of the pool or simply want to lower running costs, eco models are available. The ‘Eco-Swim’ range incorporates the very latest building materials for energy efficiency and provides you with a host of options to lessen your carbon footprint. There are plenty of small changes you can make that can have a big impact, many of them saving you money in the future. Whether you want to add an insulated pool cover or air source heat pumps, Origin will work with you to create the pool that you want.

The DeTails

Why origin? It’s simple, Origin does it all. Building pools is 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.

To speak to the experts at Origin Leisure call 01895 823366 now or visit www.originpools.co.uk for more information and to subscribe to our newsletter.

J UEN E JUN 2 022002 03 59 9

HOUSE & GARDEN

AWARD WINNING ENTERTAINMENT Home entertainment and appliance specialists PRC have been established for over 40 years

ased on Cranbrook Road in Ilford, PRC is a three generation family owned business. Its first store opened in Forest Gate East London in the early 70s and was widely known and recommended by communities in the local area. The ability to offer the latest top brand electricals at incredibly discounted prices allowed PRC to grow in popularity throughout the UK via its mail order operation and pioneering website www. prcdirect.co.uk. PRC are authorised stockists for all major TV brands including Samsung, Sony, Panasonic and LG. This is in addition to premium AV and Hi-Fi brands including Yamaha and Q Acoustics. As a long standing member of Europe’s largest electrical buying group Euronics, you can also find a wide range of top brand appliances from Bosch, Siemens and many more. And that’s not all. PRC is an approved Rangemaster Design Centre as well as small kitchen appliance specialist of Dyson, KitchenAid, Sage, Magimix, Dualit and Cuisinart. PRC’s incredibly low prices and outstanding

40 JUNE 2020

customer service have even been acknowledged by the national press including The Sunday Times. Various awards and accreditations have also been presented to PRC from the Independent Business Awards to the coveted Samsung Dealer of the Year National Award. Furthermore, they are an approved supplier to many educational, medical, broadcast and housing institutions as well as many local businesses in the West Essex area. PRC was even featured on reality TV show TOWIE and is the preferred electrical supplier to many local celebrities. So if you’re looking for the latest technology at amazingly discounted prices, whether it’s Samsung’s QLED 8K TVs, LG’s stunning new OLED TVs or even a new kitchen appliance, simply choose PRC. Get in touch via their showroom on Cranbrook Road Ilford near the Exchange Mall, with Ilford station just a short walk away. Parking is available for over 1200 cars in The Exchange Mall’s multi-storey car park and PRC will even reimburse your parking fee. Alternatively call 020 8911 0311 or visit their website www.prcdirect.co.uk

PRC’s incredibly low prices and outstanding customer service have even been acknowledged by the national press including The Sunday Times

THE DETAILS PRC 78-80 Cranbrook Road, Ilford, Essex IG1 4NH 020 8911 0311 www.prcdirect.co.uk

VISIT 78-80 CRANBROOK ROAD, ILFORD, ESSEX IG1 4NH CLICK WWW.PRCDIRECT.CO.UK CALL 020 8911 0311 THE ORIGINAL ESTABLISHED OVER 40 YEARS

HOUSE & GARDEN

An Oakfields design is an enduring tribute to its ownerâ€™s good taste, uncompromising standards, and zest for life. The Oakfields Group are committed to excellence.

Never have our homes been more important to us. During these very challenging times our homes and gardens have become a safe haven for all of us and the vast majority of us have been using our time to get around to those unfinished DIY jobs and for some this means looking at larger projects, to make our home just how we want it.

Architectural Glass For the Finest of Homes

he Oakfields Group specialise in extending the home with their impressive and very modern Winter Garden glass extensions, as well as a continuing heritage in stylish period conservatories and orangeries. They create almost everything in glass that you need; bespoke bi-folding and slim frame sliding doors, flat glass rooflights - that open, or very minimal roof lanterns. The current trend in home renovations is to add a bespoke Winter Garden. Most people are confused as to the difference between a winter garden and normal conservatory. But there is a distinct difference â€“ comfort. A winter garden creates a bio-climatic environment - a natural space cooled in summer by air flow, shaded by stunning

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THE OAKFIELDS GROUP has a lineage going back two generations • A heritage based upon accurate period design and artisanship in traditional conservatories • A reputation for delivering unique designs and creating very special buildings and structures • A new journey taking this expertise and knowledge to explore modern leading-edge products and designs • A group unique in the UK that delivers both the traditional and the modern

Many of us are looking at how to create more living space as we continue to adapt how we live and work. One of the easiest ways to achieve this is by adding a stunning Winter Garden, conservatory, or orangery. Or, if you simply want to extend your space to enjoy the garden more, then the latest in louvred pergolas and atrium glass rooms may be your answer.

“These stunning glass and aluminium designs certainly add the wow factor” in-built canopies, and then warmed in winter by the sun’s rays and the latest in high performance glass really keeps the heat in! A perfect glass room that really can be used all year round. These stunning glass and aluminium designs certainly add the wow factor and suit all styles of home, whether it’s a modern or period property. Their glass designs can also act as a link-way to different parts of your home, providing a light and airy room which can be used for any purpose, as a kitchen extension which we all know is now the hub of the home, a separate office space, or an entertainment room for the whole family. Not only do winter gardens add a luxurious addition to any home, but the extra room and unique design will also add value to your property.

THE DETAILS Oakfields work throughout the UK and can also undertake international projects. To find out how to transform your home contact The Oakfields Group. Their showroom is based in the beautiful North Yorkshire countryside near Harrogate, and they also offer an remote design consultation that you can book online. To see their product range visit; www.theoakfieldsgroup.co.uk Or call today to arrange a no obligation consultation, 0113 3873118

JUNE 2020 43

HOUSE & GARDEN

SO WHAT IS A RESIN BOUND AGGREGATE?

Everywhere I look I keep seeing these beautiful drives

esin Bound aggregate has been around for about 20 years but itâ€™s only in the last 5 years that it has really matured into the wonderful product we have today. The basic concept is that we take 4 bags of natural stone aggregate and put it into an upright mixer which is like a huge dough maker. Then separately we mix the resin and the hardener which is then added to the aggregate. After a couple of minutes, the beautiful mixture oozes out like think toffee. Ready to be raked and trowelled by our craftsmen. This fine product can be laid on existing concrete if there is existing drainage but it really comes into its own if laid on a porous tarmac because then it is totally permeable to the extent that you can tip a bucket of water and it will instantly disappear, making it perfect for cleaning and washing down. It is also extremely hardwearing as the resin hardens like rock and UV resistant which allows us to offer a

44 JUNE 2020

It is also extremely hardwearing as the resin hardens like rock and UV resistant which allows us to offer a 10 year guarantee

THE DETAILS IBBco RESIN 10 year guarantee. But this product is not only for drives, it can also create beautiful patios, paths and even swimming pool surrounds. If you like what you see and are interested in getting a free quote please give our friendly staff a call.

Unit 11, Esgors Business Centre, High Road, Thornwood Common, Epping, CM16 6LY Telephone: 01992 566411 Email: office@ibbco.co.uk www.ibbco.co.uk

HOUSE& &PROPERTY GARDEN HOME

Love Life Outdoors E

nhance, protect and prolong the use of your terrace with a patio awning from Caribbean Blinds for sun, shade and rain shelter allowing you to enjoy the continental alfresco lifestyle all year round and make the most of your outdoor terrace space come shine or rain. Practical and stylish their folding arm patio awnings outstretch to provide a welcome roof to the outdoor area, offering protection from the ever changing ambient conditions. Shade is provided from the suns intense heat to keep you cool on even the hottest summer days whilst shelter is offered from those unexpected and often persistent rain showers. Damaging ultraviolet rays are blocked providing optimum protection to the skin whilst harsh light is filtered to stop unwanted glare. The adjoining internal room also benefits as Caribbean Blinds patio awnings stop the suns heat rays reaching the glass – upto 96% solar heat block, reducing solar heat gain and naturally cooling the indoor space along with protecting furnishings from bleaching by the sun – minimum 95% UV block, all whilst maintaining the view out. Optional ambient accessories including LED strip lighting built onto the underside of their patio awnings and low glare infra-red heating, where the heat doesn’t blow away allow you to continue to use your patio awning and terrace long into the evening. Caribbean Blinds have been proudly UK manufacturing the finest Patio Awnings since 1987 for discerning homeowners. Using extruded aluminium for the frameworks which is both corrosion resistant and highly durable, along with powerful spring load folded arms to

1 4 06 2 J M UA NYE 2 20 20 02 0

OFFER: EXCLUSIVE

5% OFF

CARIBBEAN BLINDS PATIO AWNINGS ON PRESENTATION OF THIS ARTICLE

ensure optimum fabric tension and wind resistance, their patio awnings are strong and resilient, built to withstand the British climate. Fabrics are woven using premium solution dyed acrylic fibres that do not stretch, warp or fade. An exclusive TEXgard coating impregnated on all their fabrics prevent dirt and water from clinging to the surface generating a self clean effect along with stopping the growth of microorganisms. Motorised operation via remote control allows you to effortlessly extend and retract their patio awnings or opt for convenient app control from your smartphone, which includes additional features such as scenarios and scheduling. Clever ambient sensors including light and wind detectors can automatically position their patio awnings dependent on the climatic conditions for true smart hands free operation. Cassette headboxes protect the operating mechanism and fabric when retracted, minimising maintenance and neatly hiding their patio awnings away. Little details and finishing touches make all the difference, such as concealed fixing brackets and colour co-ordinated stitching. There is an array of hardware finishes and fabric designs to choose from, to suit all styles and tastes, including exclusive 3D textured fabrics and metallic coatings. For re-assurance and peace of mind all patio awnings from Caribbean Blinds are extensively and rigorously tested to withstand everything that is thrown at them, certified to stringent European quality and safety standards and come backed with a fully comprehensive 5 year guarantee. Caribbean Blinds UK Ltd 0344 800 1947 www.cbsolarshading.co.uk

HOUSE & GARDEN

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INTERIORS

cONTEmPORARY cORNERS

A contemporary corner sofa is perfect for open-plan living and relaxed spaces. Designer sofa specialists Darlings of Chelsea have a selection of new corner sofas available in a variety of styles, fabrics and colourways to suit your dĂŠcor. The Norton Corner Sofa offers a wide range of fabrics and allows you customize your inclusive scatter cushions in complimentary fabrics if you wish to make this chair truly your own. Style with minimal accessories and soft hues to inject class and comfort into your living room. www.darlingsofchelsea.co.uk

uNIquE & STRIkING

MY Furnitureâ€™s striking new Papillon range takes inspiration from the highly collectable, bespoke American furniture of the 1960s. Each piece is unique and has its own individual character, designed using eyecatching Macassar Ebony veneer applied to solid ash. www.my-furniture.com

fuN & fuNcTIONAL

London based Mint & May puts the fun into functional with its range of unique and funky homewares. From decorative items to home bar accessories, the Mint & May website is packed with gift ideas. www.mintandmay.co.uk 48 JUNE 2020

fRENcH fANcY

LuXE STYLE

Tap into luxe style with the Helena range from Living it Up. A classic yet unique design, ideal for contemporary and glamorous interior spaces. The Helena sofa is a classically Art Deco designed sofa. Featuring a large back and narrow arms, there will be plenty of space for all the family to enjoy a big night in. www.livingitup.co.uk

The French Bedroom Company collections of French furniture, contemporary lighting and quirky accessories are for those who want a bit of sassy French style in their bedroom. Born out of a fascination of French designs, textures, craftsmanship, heritage, and history, the collections are fun and feminine - with quality at the core. Beautifully made French designs combine with quirky and contemporary lighting and accessories to create interiors that are eye-catching, elegant, inspiring, chic and most importantly, unique! www.frenchbedroomcompany.co.uk

your garage as the Garage Door rolls vertically into a box. This design requires just 8 inches of headroom and allows you to par closer to the door. Remotely cont the Door from the comfort of yo car with a hold to run remot control.

Acoustic & Thermal Insulation

Brush Sealed Rails

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Offer vahd for openings up to 2 6m w,de & me 2 Remote Keys, 55mm Wh,te slats, Internal manual Override

AFTER

BEFORE

Sun awnings and blinds Recovering existing outside awnings and blinds Roller shutter garage doors Social distancing in operation

Tel: 01708 755667 • www.drathmore.co.uk

MEDIA SAIďż˝ES EXECUTIVES FlSH MEDIA GROUP

We are the proud publishers of this high quality group of magazines and are looking for two experienced telephone and face to face sales executives. We pay a high basic plus uncapped commission, on-going training and a real development to managing your own group of magazines. You must be enthusiastic, outgoing, confident and above all you must be able to sell. If you can really sell and want to be part of our expansion programme call Rory Smith on 0844 800 8439 or 07817 625568. To see the quality of our magazines and portfolio visit www.thelifemagazines.com

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PROPERTY LIFE T H E L AT E S T A N D B E S T P R O P E R T I E S O N T H E M A R K E T

MANOR ROAD, CHIGWELL PRICE ON APPLICATION COMING SOON IS THIS ABSOLUTELY AMAZING PROPERTY ON ONE OF THE MOST SOUGHT AFTER ROADS IN CHIGWELL WITH PANORAMIC VIEWS OVER CHIGWELL’S GOLF COURSE. THE PROPERTY IS SET OVER FOUR FLOORS WITH OVER 12.500 SQUARE FEET OF SPACIOUS LIVING, FINISHED TO A HIGH SPECIFICATION USING THE FINEST MATERIALS AND APPLIANCES. THE DIMENSIONS ON THE LIVING AREAS ARE OF EXCELLENT PROPORTIONS WITH A 65’ 6” x 31’ 8” OPEN PLAN BESPOKE KITCHEN / BREAKFAST / LOUNGE / CINEMA ROOM, A DINING ROOM AND STUDY. THERE ARE BI-FOLDING DOORS TO A HUGE TERRACE WITH STUNNING VIEWS OVER THE GOLF COUSE. ON THE LOWER GROUND FLOOR THERE IS A HEATED CENTURY SWIMMING POOL AND A JACUZZI. A GYM AREA WITH A SAUNA, STEAM ROOM AND CHANGING ROOM. THERE ARE EIGHT DOUBLE BEDROOMS EACH WITH AN EN-SUITES, THE MASTER BEDROOM AND BEDROOM TWO ALSO HAVE DRESSING ROOMS.

TO DISCUSS THIS PROPERTY PLEASE CONTACT JOHN THOMA BESPOKE ESTATE AGENCY ON 020 8340 8833 and enquiries@johnthoma.co.uk

www.johnthoma.co.uk

Recently Sold & Sales Agreed by HIGH ROAD, CHIGWELL £2,495,000 SALE AGREED

HIGH ROAD, CHIGWELL £2,200,000 SALE AGREED

SIX/SEVEN BEDROOM DETACHED HOUSE

SEVEN BEDROOM DETACHED HOUSE

• A HIGHLY SOUGHT-AFTER LARGE PLOT BACKING CHIGWELL’S GOLF COURSE • POTENTIAL TO DEVELOP STPP • 163’ REAR GARDEN WITH RECTANGULAR SWIMMING POOL • 29’ LOUNGE / DINING ROOM WITH AN ATTRACTIVE STONE FIRE PLACE

• SHORT WALK TO CENTRAL LINE STATION, SCHOOLS, SHOPS AND AMENITIES • BESPOKE FITTED KITCHEN / BREAKFAST ROOM WITH INTEGRATED APPLIANCES • SOUTHERLY ASPECT LANDSCAPED REAR GARDEN BACKING CHIGWELL GOLF COURSE • GATED CARRIAGE DRIVEWAY WITH EXCELLENT PARKING & ATTACHED GARAGE

WELLFIELDS, LOUGHTON £POA SOLD

COURTLAND DRIVE, CHIGWELL £POA SOLD

FOUR BEDROOM DETACHED HOUSE

• EXCELLENT POTENTIAL TO DEVELOP SUBJECT TO PLANNING PERMISSION • HUGE MASTER BEDROOM WITH EN-SUITE AND BALCONY • STUNNING SOUTH FACING LANDSCAPED REAR GARDEN 190’ x 64’ IN SIZE • SPACIOUS CARRIAGE DRIVEWAY WITH EXCELLENT PARKING

• SHORT WALK TO CHIGWELL STATION & AMENITIES • BESPOKE FITTED KITCHEN / DINING ROOM • LARGE LANDSCAPED GARDEN 100’ x 50’ • EXCELLENT POTENTIAL TO DEVELOP STPP

BARNABY WAY, CHIGWELL £1,025,000 SOLD

GRANGE CRESCENT, CHIGWELL £999,999 SOLD

THREE BEDROOM DETACHED HOUSE

FOUR BEDROOM SEMI DETACHED HOUSE

• 21’ LOUNGE & 17’ DINING ROOM • EXCELLENT POTENTIAL TO EXTEND STPP • SPACIOUS & PRIVATE REAR GARDEN • AMPLE OFF STREET PARKING

• LARGE BESPOKE FITTED KITCHEN BREAKFAST ROOM • ENORMOUS MASTER BEDROOM WITH EN-SUITE & DRESSING ROOM • LARGE SOUTHERLY ASPECT REAR GARDEN • SPACIOUS DRIVEWAY WITH PARKING FOR SEVERAL CARS

201Essex High Road, Chigwell, Essex IG7 5BJ The Coach House, 201The HighCoach Road,House, Chigwell, IG7 5BJ Tel: 020 8340664544 8833 | Mobile: 07958 664544 Tel: 020 8340 8833 | Mobile: 07958 www.johnthoma.co.uk www.johnthoma.co.uk

HIGH ROAD, CHIGWELL £3,950,000

HIGH ROAD, CHIGWELL £3,495,000

FIVE BEDROOM DETACHED HOUSE

• SET IN A SECURE AND PRIVATE GATED LOCATION OFF HIGH ROAD CHIGWELL • LARGE AMAZING BESPOKE FITTED KITCHEN / BREAKFAST ROOM • A HUGE AMAZING SOUTH-WEST FACING LANDSCAPED GARDEN • PLANNING PERMISSION GRANTED FOR A CHALET BUNGALOW

• SET WITHIN CHARMING HIGH WALLS IN APPROX A 0.8 ACRES PLOT • A HUGE ORANGERY WITH A STYLISH BESPOKE FITTED KITCHEN • OVER 6200 SQUARE FEET OF LUXURIOUS LIVING SPACE • LANDSCAPED GROUNDS, ATTACHED DOUBLE GARAGE & EXCELLENT PARKING

TRAPS HILL, LOUGHTON £2,495,000

STRADBROKE DRIVE, CHIGWELL £2,495,000

SIX BEDROOM DETACHED HOUSE

FIVE BEDROOM DETACHED HOUSE

• SHORT WALK TO LOUGHTON’S CENTRAL LINE STATION, SHOPS AND AMENITIES • HUGE GATED FRONTAGE WITH DOUBLE INTEGRAL GARAGE • STUNNING SOUTH EAST FACING LANDSCAPED REAR GARDEN • MODERN FITTED KITCHEN-BREAKFAST ROOM AND UTILITY ROOM

• SPACIOUS LOUNGE / DINING ROOM AND TELEVISION ROOM • BESPOKE FITTED KITCHEN WITH INTEGRATED APPLIANCES • LARGE SOUTHERLY ASPECT GARDEN WITH HUGE PATIO AREA • DOUBLE ATTACHED GARAGE WITH GATED HUGE CARRIAGE DRIVEWAY

HAINAULT ROAD, CHIGWELL £2,295,000

MANOR ROAD, LAMBOURNE END £1,995,000

SIX BEDROOM DETACHED HOUSE

FIVE BEDROOM DETACHED HOUSE

• SPACIOUS PROPERTY OVER 5,000 SQUARE FEET IN SIZE • MUSIC ROOM, HUGE GAMES ROOM AND AN OFFICE • GATED WITH A CARRIAGE DRIVEWAY AND ATTACHED GARAGE • SHORT WALK TO CHIGWELL STATION, SCHOOLS AND AMENITIES

• STUNNING PANORAMIC FARMLAND VIEWS WITH LARGE PATIO • OVER 3.100 SQUARE FEET OF LIVING ACCOMMODATION • LARGE DRIVEWAY WITH PARKING FOR SEVERAL CARS • SHORT DISTANCE TO EXCELLENT LOCAL AMENITIES

The Coach House, 201 High Road, Chigwell, Essex IG7 5BJ Tel: 020 8340 8833 | Mobile: 07958 664544 www.johnthoma.co.uk

CLARENCE GATE, REPTON PARK £1,849,995

TOMSWOOD ROAD, CHIGWELL £1,825,000

FOREST LANE, CHIGWELL £1,775,000

FIVE BEDROOM DETACHED HOUSE

SIX BEDROOM DETACHED HOUSE

FIVE BEDROOM DETACHED HOUSE

• SET IN THE PICTURESQUE GATED DEVELOPMENT OF REPTON PARK

• THIS STUNNING PROPERTY IS OVER 3,900 SQUARE FEET IN SIZE

• LOCATED IN ONE OF CHIGWELL’S MOST SOUGHT AFTER ROADS

• BEAUTIFULLY PRESENTED THROUGHOUT AND CHAIN FREE

• A BESPOKE FITTED KITCHEN / BREAKFAST ROOM AND A UTILITY ROOM

• ENORMOUS POTENTIAL TO DEVELOP SUBJECT TO PLANNING PERMISSION

• DOUBLE INTEGRAL GARAGE WITH REMOTE CONTROLLED DOORS

• LANDSCAPED FRONT AND REAR GARDENS

• BEAUTIFULLY FINISHED AND PRESENTED HOME WITH OVER 3900 SQ FT OF LIVING SPACE

• LARGE DRIVEWAY WITH PARKING FOR SEVERAL CARS

• DETACHED DOUBLE GARAGE AND LARGE GATED DRIVEWAY

• SOUTHERLY ASPECT GARDEN, DETACHED GARAGE AND CARRIAGE DRIVEWAY

HIGH MEAD, CHIGWELL GUIDE PRICE £1,750,000

SPARELEAZE HILL, LOUGHTON £1,729,995

REGENTS DRIVE, REPTON PARK £1,725,000

FIVE BEDROOM DETACHED HOUSE

FIVE/SIX BEDROOM DETACHED HOUSE

SEVEN BEDROOM DETACHED HOUSE

• SPACIOUS GRADE II LISTED HOME FULL OF CHARM AND CHARACTER

• OVER 3,460 SQUARE FEET OF LIVING ACCOMMODATION

• HUGE FAMILY HOME BEING OVER 3,740 SQUARE FEET

• CHAIN FREE PROPERTY

• SPACIOUS LOUNGE, SITTING ROOM AND DINING ROOM

• ENORMOUS BESPOKE FITTED KITCHEN / BREAKFAST / LIVING ROOM

• OVER 2,900 SQUARE FEET OF FINE LIVING SPACE

• STUNNING SOUTH FACING LANDSCAPED GARDEN 145’ x 60’

• TWO FURTHER EN-SUITES AND A FAMILY SHOWER ROOM

• CARRIAGE DRIVEWAY WITH DETACHED DOUBLE GARAGE AND PARKING FOR SEVERAL CARS

• LARGE CARRIAGE DRIVEWAY WITH AMPLE PARKING AND GARAGE

• DOUBLE INTEGRAL GARAGE WITH OWN DRIVEWAY

SPARELEAZE HILL, LOUGHTON £1,695,000

OLLARDS GROVE, LOUGHTON £1,695,000

ALBION HILL, LOUGHTON £1,590,000

FOUR BEDROOM DETACHED HOUSE

SIX BEDROOM DETACHED HOUSE

• A CHAIN FREE PROPERTY IN A SOUGHT AFTER ROAD IN LOUGHTON

• ENORMOUS POTENTIAL TO DEVELOP SUBJECT TO PLANNING PERMISSION

• A BEAUTIFULLY PRESENTED MODERN FAMILY PROPERTY

• PLANNING PERMISSION TO BUILD A NEW HOME 5575 SQ FT IN SIZE

• SPACIOUS LOUNGE, FITTED KITCHEN / BREAKFAST ROOM AND A DINING ROOM

• SPACIOUS HOME, OVER 3,150 SQUARE FEET IN SIZE

• A SUBSTANTIAL PLOT WITH A SOUTH FACING REAR GARDEN

• LARGE ATTACHED GARAGE WITH SPACIOUS DRIVEWAY AND EXCELLENT PARKING

• HUGE GARDEN WITH LARGE SUMMER HOUSE & STORAGE SHED

• JUST A SHORT WALK TO LOUGHTON’S CENTRAL LINE STATION

• AN EXCELLENT FAMILY HOME WITH MANY ORIGINAL FEATURES AND CHAIN FREE

• LARGE ATTACHED GARAGE / GYM & ENORMOUS DRIVEWAY

The Coach House, 201 High Road, Chigwell, Essex IG7 5BJ Tel: 020 8340 8833 | Mobile: 07958 664544 www.johnthoma.co.uk

DOUGLAS CLOSE, REPTON PARK GUIDE PRICE £1,050,000-£1,095,000

RODING LANE, CHIGWELL O.I.R.O £1,000,000

HAINAULT ROAD, CHIGWELL GUIDE PRICE £975,000-£995,000

FIVE BEDROOM DETACHED HOUSE

THREE BEDROOM DETACHED HOUSE

FIVE BEDROOM SEMI-DETACHED HOUSE

• SPACIOUS LOUNGE / DINING ROOM AND STUDY ROOM

• STUNNING NEW BUILD PROPERTY WITH WARRANTY

• EXCELLENT POTENTIAL TO DEVELOP STPP

• LARGE DETACHED GARAGE AND LONG DRIVEWAY WITH PARKING FOR TWO CARS

• DOUBLE DETACHED GARAGE AND HUGE DRIVEWAY

• STUNNING 170 FOOT REAR GARDEN

• PRIVATE REAR GARDEN WITH VIEWS OVER THE GROUNDS OF REPTON PARK

• EXCELLENT STAMP DUTY INCENTIVE

• ATTACHED GARAGE AND AMPLE PARKING

• CHAIN FREE

• SET IN A SEMI-RURAL LOCATION WITH PANORAMIC VIEWS

• SHORT WALK TO CHIGWELL STATION AND AMENITIES

HIGH ROAD, CHIGWELL £724,995

ORCHARD DRIVE, THEYDON BOIS GUIDE PRICE £700,000-£725,000

ELY PLACE, WOODFORD GREEN GUIDE PRICE £700,000-£750,000

FOUR BEDROOM SEMI-DETACHED HOUSE

• BEAUTIFULLY PRESENTED AND FINISHED THROUGHOUT

• RECENTLY EXTENDED, REFURBISHED & FINISHED TO A HIGH STANDARD

• SITUATED ON A CORNER PLOT WITHIN A QUIET CUL DE SAC

• BESPOKE FITTED KITCHEN-BREAKFAST ROOM WITH INTEGRATED APPLIANCES

• 64’ REAR GARDEN WITH A SUMMER HOUSE, GARAGE & OFF STREET PARKING

• FOUR GOOD SIZED BEDROOM, ALL INCLUDE FITTED WARDROBES

• TWO ALLOCATED PARKING SPACES AND LOW MAINTENANCE GARDEN

• EXCELLENT LOCATION WITHIN A SHORT WALK TO THEYDON BOIS STATION

• 71’ REAR GARDEN WITH PATIO AREA & CHILDRENS PLAY SECTION

• CLOSE TO SOUGHT AFTER SCHOOLS AND EXCELLENT AMENITIES

• FOUR GOOD SIZED BEDOOMS ACROSS TWO LEVELS

• 18’ DOUBLE GARAGE & AMPLE OFF STREET PARKING

THE BOWLS, CHIGWELL £614,995

RETREAT WAY, CHIGWELL O.I.R.O £500,000-£525,000

HOWARD CLOSE, LOUGHTON £499,995

TWO BEDROOM APARTMENT

THREE BEDROOM TERRACED HOUSE

TWO BEDROOM SEMI-DETACHED HOUSE

• SET IN THE STUNNING GATED GROUNDS

• OWN DRIVEWAY WITH PARKING FOR TWO TO THREE CARS

• DRIVEWAY WITH PARKING FOR TWO CARS AND VISITORS PARKING

• OWN LARGE GARAGE, EXCELLENT PARKING FOR VISITORS WITH A LIFT AND STAIRS

• SET IN A PEACEFUL CUL-DE-SAC AND SHORT WALK TO AMENITIES

• AN EXCELLENT PROPERTY FOR FIRST TIME BUYERS OR INVESTORS

• FITTED KITCHEN / BREAKFAST ROOM WITH LARGE DINING ROOM

• JUST A SHORT WALK TO HAINAULT FOREST

• A SHORT WALK TO LOUGHTON’S CENTRAL LINE AND AMENITIES

• STUNNING GROUNDS WHICH ARE BEAUTIFULLY MAINTAINED

• A SPACIOUS LOUNGE AND A MODERN FITTED KITCHEN

• MASTER BEDROOM WITH FITTED WARDROBES

The Coach House, 201 High Road, Chigwell, Essex IG7 5BJ Tel: 020 8340 8833 | Mobile: 07958 664544 www.johnthoma.co.uk

Carroll Hill, Loughton • • • • •

Four bedroom detached Walking distance to the Central Line 185 ft rear garden Potential to extend extensively Well presented

High Beech, Loughton • • • • •

£1,575,000

New Build Four bedrooms Walking distance to the Central Line Off street parking Estimated completion July 2020

Warren Heights, Loughton • • • • •

£850,000

Prestigious gated development Five bedroom detached Three bathrooms Double garage Chain free

The Boulevard, Repton Park • • • • •

£2,150,000

Prestigious Repton Park Development Four/Five Bedroom Town House Immaculately Presented Large Integral Garage Chain Free

£1,125,000

Woodman Lane , Chingford • • • •

£15,000pcm

Available now Five bedroom Part furnished/furnished Private gated

Balmoral House, Woodford Green • • • •

Available now Unfurnished Lift A stones throw from Woodford Station

Pynest Green Lane, Waltham Abbey £8,000 pcm

Hazel Lane, Chigwell

• • • •

Available now Unfurnished Gated One bedroom annex

£1,350pcm

Five bedroom Available now Unfurnished Gated development

£3,500 pcm

Stradbroke Drive, Chigwell Elliott James Prime Residential are delighted to bring to the market this exceptional detached eight bedroom, six bathroom family residence located on one of Chigwellâ€™s most prestigious and highly sought- after roads. The property has a block and beam construction and therefore has no floorboards. This stunning home was completed in 2014, so four years NHBC still remains for a new owner. The property has been designed by the current owners with the internal accommodation arranged over three floors. The grounds floor offers entrance porch, grand entrance hall, WC, purpose build hall cloakroom, spacious kitchen / breakfast room with central island, fitted appliances, aircon and patio doors opening onto the rear garden patio, open plan dining room, formal reception room with access to the rear garden patio via patio doors, family TV room, study, large vaulted ceiling entertainment room with aircon and floor to ceiling window, utility room with second WC, plant room housing boilers with a fully pressurised water system that allows instant hot water in all showers and bathrooms ensuring all have high water pressure and commercial water softener and internal door to the extra wide two car garage. The wide sweeping staircase with bespoke handmade handrail leads to the first gallery landing allowing access to the master suite with his and her separate walk in wardrobes and large en-suite bathroom, double bedroom with walk in dressing room and en-suite, two double bedrooms with en-suites, double bedroom, single bedroom, family bathroom and plant room. On the next floor there is a second master suite with double walk in wardrobe, en-suite and balcony. There is a further double bedroom with built in wardrobes. The property includes bespoke handmade coving to all ceilings, full underfloor heating to all floors and rooms, all bathrooms have been designed as wet rooms, Cat 5 wired throughout the house and video gate entry monitors to all floors. Externally the 120ft rear private garden consists of a wide variety of trees, mature planted borders, summer house, shed, large patio, garden lighting and laid to lawn. The property is set behind high security gates with the front garden benefiting from bollard lighting and the 110 ft carriage driveway facilitating parking for numerous vehicles. Early viewing is highly recommended with the property being offered Chain Free. All viewings are strictly by appointment only.

ÂŁ4,250,000

PROPERTY LIFE

DRAGONS & VICTORIANA We have all come to appreciate how special our green space is and a new relationship has formed between us and our forests and countryside over the last few weeks. With 5,900 acres of beautifully maintained Epping Forest and Ancient woodland surrounding us. This is the new, most desirable prime location.

t is no coincidence that over many hundreds of years country houses and estates have graced these parts of Essex where Kings and Queens once hunted and although many of the original estates have broken up over the years, there still remains some magnificent homes tucked away in local streets and country lanes that offer a glimpse of true quality and craftsmanship that we can only gaze in wonderment that they still exist at all. Once in a while and sometimes only after a twentyyear span one of these fine homes comes to market. These homes have a special place in our affections because of familiarity as landmarks for many on our walks or on our way to school or work. With many of the local population having lived over many generations in or around this part of Essex ambitious individuals may well have passed these properties thousands of times and said “one day I want to live in a house like that”. History can sometimes repeat itself in a positive way and the drive and imagination that inspired and created these amazing homes is matched by the same drive in the new buyer to acquire it for the next generation.

Every room of this extraordinary property reveals yet another feature to marvel at

One such exceptional “one of a kind” property has been placed with Elliott James -Prime Residential to seek a new owner and custodian:

Dragons, Nursery Road, Loughton This amazing Late Victorian residence was the flamboyant vision of a remarkable adventurer and shipwright Henry Marshall Fletcher whose family firm had been building ships at Wapping Old Stairs since 1600. Henry was also a talented craftsman and set about creating a bespoke mansion inspired by his love of Icelandic heroes and Wagnerian symphonies. He named his home “Dragons” and set about adorning his Gothic inspired home with intricate carved panels featuring this exotic creature. He also excelled at woodcarving and working with terracotta and his work permeates the house. He was a follower of fashion, and the gothic style and the Arts and JUNE 2020 59

PROPERTY LIFE

Feeding the Dragons

Crafts movement. Dragons gets its name from the terracotta dragons on the roof. He used a variety of beautiful pines and seasoned oak to create elegant vaulted ceilings and hand carved panelled walls, grandiose semi-hexagonal bays with tall windows overlooking the handsome grounds are all displayed under the watchful eye of his beloved dragon gargoyles. Every room of this extraordinary property reveals yet another feature to marvel at and whoever becomes the very fortunate new owner will inherit a piece of real Victorian history as well as a most luxurious and inspiring home to live in. The fully immersive 3D Walkthrough is available on our website. Guide Price £3,500,000

60 JUNE 2020

Dragons gets it’s name from the terracotta dragons on the roof. Guide Price £3,500,000

A magical local tradition for many years for those in the “know” have walked their small children past this beautifully crafted gate to “feed the Dragons” with small leaves. This tradition according to the owner has continued for over 80 years as confirmed by locals. Long may these gentle traditions continue.

A Victorian Mansion, Churchbells and Rolling Countryside When looking at the amazing features of The Old Rectory it brings home exactly what is so important about open space with a property. Given what we have endured over the last weeks the whole perception of what is desirable in a luxury property is being debated. The accepted patterns of home ownership with each family occupying their own individual property has long been challenged mainly because of affordability. It has been harder for couples or individuals to get on the property ladder until much later in life. Often the older generation has been called on to fund deposits

With 6 acres of paddock and formal gardens surrounding the property and a wealth of accommodation over three floors and a self contained cottage.

or offer greater financial assistance to gain homes for their offspring. However, the Covid effect has thrown other concerns such as care for elderly parents, childcare, social distancing and reluctance to return to City life for work into the melting pot of decision making. Suddenly in these short weekâ€™s ideas have been formed that properties that can offer space for home working or even running a business with core staff from home could be useful. Once this thought process has started, the whole range of benefits that could come from family communal living starts to make sense. We have seen an immediate rise in enquiries from families seeking homes capable of multiple occupation. We are delighted to be able to offer exclusively at EJPR the very peak of desirability in the form of this amazing Victorian mansion house.

The Old Rectory, Coopersale Lane, Theydon Garnon Set within a beautiful hamlet adjacent to All Saints church with history dating back over 700 years. This bucolic setting offers an ideal property with so much space and privacy that multiple family occupation would not compromise anybodyâ€™s personal space. With 6 acres of paddock and formal gardens surrounding the property and a wealth of

accommodation over three floors there is also an opportunity to keep animals with further outbuildings available. The vaulted ceiling and magnificent balustraded staircase create an impressive showcase rising upwards from the expansive hallway. The high ceilings and large bayed receptions overlook the planted landscaped grounds and with 7 large bedrooms privacy is assured. Yet, although the house with just over 5,000 sq ft itself is vast there is even more space and opportunity within the 1,000 sq ft of the two bedroom attached Cottage. This excellent space is attached to the main house but is totally self-contained even with its own courtyard. Not only could this be perfect for separate family occupation it could also be used as a work from home area. The current owners hold this on a separate title so there may be other advantages in how the property is owned but it is included in the sale of the whole property. There is so much more to see on our 3D Walkthrough at www.ejpr.co.uk and further information is available on request.

The Old Rectory Guide Price ÂŁ3,250,000

THE DETAILS Elliott James 165 High Road, Loughton, Essex, IG10 4LF 0208 0165 333 www.ejpr.co.uk

JUNE 2020

PROPERTY LIFE

LOCKDOWN DOESN’T STOP FIRST-TIME BUYER

Many people remember the experience of buying their first home, which is usually filled with a mixture of excitement and apprehension. But for Duygu Baydur, an investment banker, originally from Turkey, the experience was simply unprecedented due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

uygu and her partner have recently moved into a two-bedroom property at White + Green, a Higgins Homes development of 144 properties featuring one, two and three bedroom apartments, as well as a range of citipads. Situated between Whitechapel and Bethnal Green Underground stations, the move was completed during the lockdown, creating a unique first-time buyer experience. “We had to find ways to be inventive and use the technology that was available to make this happen,” says Duygu. “Once social distancing was implemented, we couldn’t go to see the solicitor, for example, so we used phone apps and electronic signatures to sign off on all the paperwork.” After becoming engaged, Duygu and her partner stepped up the search for a property. They were originally renting in Wapping in East London, and, while on a regular bike ride, the couple spotted the Higgins Homes development. “We only really looked at new builds because we wanted a property that was easy to move straight into and wouldn’t require lots of work,” says Duygu. “We know this area well and really like the location; it’s got a good community feel and has lots of really good coffee shops, restaurants and independent stores but it doesn’t feel too gentrified. It’s also perfect for my work; I can walk to Liverpool Street in just 20 minutes. Our social life is also important to us and we wanted to be close to the gym and the places where we like to spend our free time, which is Brick Lane, Shoreditch and Columbia Road.” After viewing the property in February, just a week later they put in an offer. “We had a few things on our wish list, including being really keen to have a balcony, two bathrooms, a spacious kitchen and a separate living area, which very few flats can offer,” adds Duygu. “We found all of these things at White + Green, together with it being in the area that we love. So it didn’t take long to decide that we wanted to go ahead and buy.” Originating from outside the UK, Duygu initially

65 JUNE 2020

found the buying process quite confusing and a little intimidating, as she explains: “Not really understanding the process was quite concerning, but the solicitor and broker that Higgins Homes introduced us to were so knowledgeable and patient it put me at ease. I feel I got lucky because they were so helpful and walked me through the process step by step.” It took just five weeks to exchange and completion happened shortly after that, even during the global pandemic. “I had no fear that we wouldn’t be able to move. I knew there would be difficulties but Higgins Homes were very good at keeping me informed every step of the way,” says Duygu. “Of course, there have been some challenges. Social distancing meant that we didn’t have a face to face walk through and all communications had to be done on the phone or through technology, but Higgins Homes remained responsive throughout which meant that there were very few hiccups.” The lockdown has caused some difficulties in getting furniture delivered but the actual move was pretty straightforward, as Duygu adds: “I’ve moved a lot in London before so I knew who to contact and what to do and it was actually pretty straightforward. We moved in several waves and just didn’t put too much pressure on to get everything done. I would say to anyone else in a similar position that even in a lockdown, with social distancing measures in place, it can still be possible to move home but just ensure that communication with everyone involved is good.” Having moved from a rental property with no outside space, Duygu has been really enjoying relaxing on the balcony. “Of course, we are really looking forward to the time when we can go back to the places we love and enjoy all the great things that this area has to offer. But for now, we are just happy that we no longer have to pay rent and have been able to move on with the next stage of our lives. We are really enjoying the flat. Plus, during the lockdown, we are very grateful to spend time on the balcony and to enjoy the recent sunshine and the outside space too.”

I had no fear that we wouldn’t be able to move. I knew there would be difficulties but Higgins Homes were very good at keeping me informed every step of the way

THE DETAILS There are just a handful apartments available at White + Green with prices starting at £399,950. The sales team will be on hand to answer questions and offer virtual tours of the show apartments. Call 020 7247 2025 or email whiteandgreen@higginshomes.co.uk

SHOW APARTMENT

VIEWING BY APPOINTMENT ONLY

LOU GHT ON

LOUGHTON

1 & 2 BEDROOM APARTMENTS IN CENTRAL LOUGHTON One bedroom apartment at £437,500* • Selected apartments ready for occupation • 3 minutes walk to Epping Forest and 5 minutes to Loughton on foot. 30 minutes by Central Line to London Liverpool Street

Two bedroom apartments from £525,000* • Help to Buy* available with a 5% deposit from as little as £21,875 • Signature Higgins Homes specification • Virtual tour available

• Allocated parking to all homes PLEASE CALL TO BOOK YOUR APPOINTMENT

020 8003 1504

www.quercus-loughton.co.uk *Prices correct at time of going to press, terms & conditions apply. **Source: tfl.gov.uk. Computer generated image.

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