Sandleswood View, Beaconsfield A luxury private gated development by Landmark Group
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Experience Classic English Elegance
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Editor Faye Manning ••••• Editorial Assistant Jordi Brown ••••• Sub Editor Kieran Bullworthy ••••• Fashion Editor Nicholas Peter ••••• Design & Production Lisa Wade ••••• business development manager Abi Gardner 07841 871 458 ••••• ACCOUNTS Kathy Manning Andree Georgiou ••••• Directors Patrick Smith Rory Smith
CONTENTS OUT & ABOUT
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FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY
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HOUSE & GARDEN
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out & about – We put fantastic local businesses and exciting events in the spotlight each month – I M AG E : c o n c o u r s o f e l e g a n c e
OUT & ABOUT
Ronnie Wood x Ashridge House
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ritically acclaimed artist, musician, song writer, and esteemed Rolling Stones guitarist Ronnie Wood will collaborate with country estate and stately home Ashridge House on a unique summer exhibition this August. Ronnie Wood x Ashridge House will see Ronnie present a considerable collection of original artworks including some of his most treasured paintings, a series of sculptures and a selection of etchings within the extraordinary interiors of Ashridge House. Many of the works are previously unseen and the exhibition will also include new pieces that he has produced during lockdown. There will be a room dedicated to Ronnie’s paintings of Ashridge House and its spectacular grounds. Other highlights will include many of Ronnie’s favourite paintings, handpicked for the Ashridge collaboration, plus a remarkable new large-scale tapestry of Ronnie’s original painting interpreting the iconic Beggar’s Banquet album that will hang in the imposing entrance of Ashridge House. “I’ve long been inspired by the beauty of Ashridge House and its incredible gardens” says Ronnie. “I’ve passed by it many times and have always been intrigued by what it’s like inside and the story of the place. I’ve recreated Ashridge in many of my paintings over the years, so to finally go inside and explore such a historic and fascinating place and have the opportunity to show my work there is a really special moment. I hope visitors will come in August and enjoy the art in these breathtaking surroundings.” Set in 190 acres of private gardens in Berkhamsted, Hertfordshire, Ashridge House is steeped in British history dating back to 1283 when
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21-27 August 2020
Ashridge was first established as a monastery for the order of the ‘College of Bonhommes’ founded by Edmund, Earl of Cornwall. In 1539, with the dissolution of the monasteries, King Henry VIII acquired Ashridge as a country residence later bequeathing it to his daughter and future Queen, Elizabeth I in 1550. Following Elizabeth’s death in 1603 Ashridge was purchased by Sir Thomas Egerton (Queen Elizabeth I’s Lord Keeper) in 1604 and Ashridge became home to the Dukes and Earls of Bridgewater who continued to live there for 245 years through to the end of the First World War. In 1808 Ashridge was almost completely rebuilt by James Wyatt in the spectacular style you see today and is now home to Hult Ashridge Executive Education and is also a world-class wedding and events venue. Ashridge House is rarely open to the public and the week-long exhibition will give visitors a chance to enjoy Ronnie’s art while exploring the beautiful, historic house as well as its idyllic grounds. Ronnie Wood x Ashridge House will open to the public 21-27 August from 10am- 4pm. Timed, sociallydistanced slots will be available to pre-book via the Ashridge House website and will include access to the gardens. Tickets cost £10 each + £1.37 booking fee and all ticket proceeds will be donated to the NHS. Ronnie’s artwork is widely collected throughout the world and over the years, the artist and the musician have become inseparable. As his musical career progressed, Ronnie continued his passion for painting and drawing; his subjects ranging from band members and musicians he admired, knew and sometimes played with, to family and close friends as well as stunning landscapes such as the magnificent Ashridge estate. ronniewood.com ashridgehouse.org.uk
“Ashridge House is steeped in 700 years of British history”
OUT & ABOUT
The World’s Most Regal Car Park This September, automotive royalty gathers in Hampton Court Palace for the world-famous Concours of Elegance
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he most astonishing cars ever produced, a line-up of world-famous luxury brands, and one of the UK’s most beautiful historic royal settings. That’s the successful recipe for the Concours of Elegance, returning to Hampton Court Palace from 4-6th September. Following formal approval from Historic Royal Palaces, the Concours of Elegance – presented by luxury watchmakers, A. Lange & Söhne – is the first major international concours d’elegance event since March, and the perfect chance to gawp at one-off Alfa Romeos, race-winning Bugattis, coach built American rarities and a lineup of ‘Future Classics’ from the likes of Singer, Koenigsegg and Pagani. Originally launched at Windsor Castle in 2012, the event has grown since, hosted at St James’s Palace in 2013, Hampton Court Palace in 2014, the Palace of Holyroodhouse in 2015, back to Windsor in 2016 and then finding a semipermanent home at Hampton Court Palace from
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2017. As the Concours of Elegance evolved over the years – always with a stunning collection of cars at its heart – it has morphed into a celebration of luxury goods, fine food and drink, wonderful music and superb displays of art. The line-up of cars is a veritable feast of the most famous brands in the world; Ferrari, Rolls-Royce, Bugatti and Lamborghini all feature. But each car in the Concours must be invited to attend, and to get an invitation, your car must be extremely special. An expert Concours of Elegance Steering Committee of motoring aficionados pick one-offs, rarities and models with incredible backstories to invite to Hampton Court Palace to create a truly special line-up of vehicles. The Concours of Elegance’s centrepiece display is reserved only for the most extraordinary vehicles or astonishing motoring feats. This year, is a specially curated collection of McLaren F1 GTRs that finished 1st, 3rd, 4th, 5th and 13th at Le Mans 24 Hours in 1995. All five cars will be parked side-by-side at Concours of Elegance 2020; the
“The perfect chance to gawp at one-off Alfa Romeos, race-winning Bugattis, coach built American rarities and a line-up of ‘Future Classics’”
winning Kokusai Kaihatsu Racing car, the thirdplace Harrods-liveried car of Andy Wallace, Derek Bell and Justin Bell, the fourth-place Gulf Racing F1 GTR, the Giroix Racing Team F1 GTR that finished fifth and the 13th-placed Societe BBA car. In addition to the spectacular McLaren F1 GTR centrepiece, visitors can expect to see two one-off Alfa Romeos in the show’s very special Main Concours display - demonstrating the best in contemporary engineering and hand-crafted design. The Alfa Romeo 6C 2300B and 2500 were among the most expensive cars in the world during the ’30s and ‘40s, featuring engines designed by one of the great automotive designers of all time; Vittorio Jano, His engines helped both cars to amass a number of impressive race victories. They finished 1st and 2nd in their class at the 1937 Mille Miglia, 1st, 2nd and 3rd at the 1937 Targa Abruzzo in Pescara, took victory again at Pescara in 1938 and won the Targa Florio in 1950. Concours of Elegance’s tribute to 70 years of motorsport’s top echelon includes five exceptional F1 cars, each representing a pinnacle of achievement in F1’s constant quest for speed. The group comprises cars every enthusiast will recognise Ferrari, Williams and Lotus machines
“Concours of Elegance’s tribute to 70 years of motorsport’s top echelon includes five exceptional F1 cars” inextricably linked with racing heroes such as Sir Stirling Moss, Niki Lauda and Damon Hill. For those not yet old enough to enjoy the thrills of a road car, Concours of Elegance is proud the introduce the Junior Concours. Celebrating the best of half-scale hand-built pedal, electric and petrol-powered cars of all ages, the Junior Concours, will see parents and their children taking on the roles of Works Drivers and Mechanics. Nearly 1000 cars will gather in the Palace AUGUST 2020 23
OUT & ABOUT
grounds for a number of other features, including the seventh annual Royal Automobile Club Trophy. The UK’s finest car clubs, from Rolls-Royce to Ferrari will enter their most spectacular vehicles for an opportunity to win a much-vaunted place among the Main Concours collection of cars in the 2021 event. Alongside these magnificent cars, visitors may explore Hampton Court Palace and visit a vast array of street-food outlets and enjoy champagne by the original Champagne Charlie, Charles Heidsieck. There’s the opportunity for some luxury shopping, too, with pop-up boutiques from the
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likes of fine horologists A. Lange & Söhne and their intricately crafted German timepieces, and fashion brands like Niccolò P.’s signature polo shirts. With a new Official Insurance Partner, Chubb Insurance, and Specialist Dealer Displays from the likes of Frank Dale, Bell Sport & Classic, Jaguar Land Rover Classic, Export 56 and more. Clearly, it’s worth addressing the elephant in the room. With audience welfare in mind, the organisers have created a new Covid-19safe operational plan that includes revised hospitality and restricted visitor numbers, with the introduction of separate morning and afternoon tickets. Should government guidance negate the running of the event, all tickets can be refunded or rolled over to 2021. concoursofelegance.co.uk
“Alongside these magnificent cars, visitors may explore Hampton Court Palace”
OUT & ABOUT
The Art of Buying Art
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hanks to the Lockdown, it was not uncommon for us all to be stuck at home and left, literally, staring at the walls. As such, it was a good time to revisit the items that we’ve put on those walls and whether they still give us pleasure. Alison Phillipson - who specialises in sourcing contemporary art for private and corporate clients - comments: “We can all get pretty immune to what we’ve got on our walls. Family photographs and heirlooms will always have a special resonance, but often the prints or paintings that we bought maybe many years ago have perhaps lost their charm. Having reproductions of work by great masters - whether they’re Pissarro or Picasso - is fine, but personally I find new work by artists who are active
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“My role is to talk through what people are looking for: is it a painting, sculpture or other medium?”
today is fantastically exciting to engage with. “And certainly, if you’re thinking of refreshing the visual landscape of your home there has never been a better time to buy contemporary art. There is a wonderful group of talented young artists producing stunning work at accessible prices.” Of course, contemporary art can be an intimidating part of the art world with which to engage. The bad press it often gets overlooks some of the tremendous work that is being done. When setting up Phillipson Fine Art, eleven years ago, Alison appreciated both this challenge and also the opportunity it presented. “It’s not uncommon for us to help people who have been looking to invest in contemporary art for a long time but just hadn’t been able to connect with the right work. My role is to talk through what people are looking for: is it a painting, sculpture or other medium? And also to consider the space for which it is intended. “That can entail the interior of someone’s home. There’s no point in being precious about that dynamic: for a piece of art to truly work it has to be in a setting which shows it to its best advantage. You wouldn’t hang a 5ft-high Rothko in a 16th century cottage with 6ft ceiling heights.” Phillipson has a First-Class honours degree
in Fine Art and History of Art and an MA in Contemporary Art Theory, but it is her love of contemporary fine art that shines through when she talks about connecting clients to artists. “It’s fascinating to watch an artist develop and follow them on that journey. Yes, some of my clients have made gains on the art that they have bought through me, but the common denominator amongst them all is that they love the pieces they buy and value the connection with the artist who has created that work.” This combination of art expertise and an understanding of what clients are looking for is at the heart of what Phillipson Fine Art does. “We have some clients who we may only ever source one piece, and others who are assiduous collectors. Part of the enjoyment of what I do is
the details Phillipson Fine Art +44 (0)7767 677 677 alison@phillipsonfineart.co.uk phillipsonfineart.co.uk
working with a wide range of people whose only connection is their interest in contemporary art.” Throughout the process great care and diligence is taken to match a client’s personal tastes, their requirements and, of course, their budget: “We’ve helped clients source works from £500 to over £100,000,” Phillipson reports, “and also have commissioned pieces from specific artists. “Our approach to the purchase and commissioning of fine art is to create a very personal dialogue that is always bespoke, discreet and sensitive to our client’s aspirations and tastes.” She works with exceptional artists and will purchase either direct from an artist or from a gallery. “It is enormously satisfying to bring things of beauty into people’s lives and also help artists develop their careers,” she reflects. So, who are some of the artists that she finds most exciting at present? “That’s like having to say who your favourite child is,” she laughs. “I would have to mention the sculptor James Capper and the painter Masaki Yada whom I think are both tremendous talents. I shall now wait for the ‘what-about-me?’ emails from all the others I know!” So if the art on your wall began to pall during Lockdown, it might be an idea to give Alison a call and start investigating the vibrant world of contemporary art.
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OUT & ABOUT
Covid-19: Pre-nuptial agreements and the postponement of weddings
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s well as the disruption it has caused to businesses, the economy and every day life for many around the globe, one of the other impacts of Covid-19 has been the postponement or cancellation of weddings. Marriage in England carries with it financial obligations and upon a divorce, the Court has the power to make financial orders. These orders deal with the procedure of dividing and transferring financial assets between separating spouses, as well as the issue of potential maintenance payments. It is the prospect of being bound by such financial orders that prompts engaged couples to enter into pre-nuptial agreements. A pre-nuptial agreement is a document which seeks to regulate the division of assets between parties to a marriage upon any divorce that may follow. Whilst they are not binding in jurisdiction of England and Wales, recent case law does show that the weight attached to these agreements has increased significantly in recent times. Pre-Nuptial agreements are bespoke and substantial documents which require both expert advice and serious consideration before being entered into. Negotiations can take months so if your wedding has been postponed, this could be the opportune moment to resolve any outstanding issues you may have with the drafting of your prenuptial agreement. Of course, if you and your partner have already signed a pre-nuptial agreement but your wedding has been postponed or cancelled then 28 AUGUST 2020
you find yourselves in a different situation. The impact Covid-19 has had on the economy means that many people have been furloughed or made redundant. Therefore, it may be that the agreement previously drawn up no longer reflects your financial position or that of your partner and this could impact upon the enforceability of the agreement in the future. Therefore, if there has been a material change in the financial circumstances of either yourself or your partner, you may consider reviewing and entering into a new pre-nuptial agreement reflecting your current financial position. Some pre-nuptial agreements contain ‘sunset clauses’ which establish a specific time frame within which that agreement remains valid. Should you be able to re-arrange your cancelled or postponed wedding within the time frame and the document still reflects your current financial circumstances, then a review of that agreement would very likely not be necessary. However, if your pre-nuptial agreement does set a time frame after which it becomes invalid and you are unable to re-arrange your wedding before that date, then entering into a revised agreement would be necessary if it is to remain valid. Royds Withy King is a City law firm with a local presence. Our Family Team is based in the Home Counties as are many of our clients. Contact specialist Emma McMorrow for advice on nuptial agreements, divorce and separation. For more information, see roydswithyking.com or call 0800 046 4479.
Emma McMorrow
“Some pre-nuptial agreements contain ‘sunset clauses’ which establish a specific time frame within which that agreement remains valid”
OUT & ABOUT
Probate fraud What can you do about it? Fraud in the context of Wills and probate is viewed very dimly by civil and criminal courts alike, as it undermines the integrity of a system built on trust and perpetrators will be dealt with harshly. Probate fraud can occur before or after someone has passed away, either at the hands of a want-to-be beneficiary or those tasked with administering the estate. B P Collins’ Principal lawyer and criminal law specialist, Jonothan Moss, advises on what to do if you suspect someone of probate fraud.
There are various things to look out for if you suspect probate fraud: • Were abrupt changes made to the will? • Was the person anxious and confused at the time of making the will? • Do you suspect the signature on the will not to be from the deceased? • Do you suspect a will was made without the person’s knowledge? • Did the deceased make any substantial gifts of money, property or valuable items shortly before they died? • Was someone else’s name added to a bank account or the deeds of a property before death? • Were there any inexplicable withdrawals from bank accounts? • Have all assets been accounted for and properly distributed after death? If you suspect probate fraud, what should you do next? Seek legal advice from a lawyer who will advise on what can be done immediately to protect the assets concerned and investigate matters further. The lawyer will also advise on whether the police should be involved. If the police are willing to open an investigation, they will have the power to
extensively search computers, phones and other relevant documentation to gather enough evidence for the Crown Prosecution Service to be satisfied that there is a “realistic prospect of conviction.” In addition, it is possible to obtain information and evidence alongside – and separate to – the police investigation. For example, it may be possible to obtain evidence about the circumstances surrounding the will from the solicitor involved in the preparation of the will and from the witnesses to the will. What if there isn’t much money involved? From a civil court perspective, the amount of money at stake will undoubtedly have a bearing on whether a probate dispute will end up in court. From a criminal law perspective, however, the amount of money involved is irrelevant to the question of whether a criminal offence has been committed. The amount of money at stake could influence the final sentence given to a convicted perpetrator but what is most important is ascertaining whether the accused has undermined the probate system and committed a criminal offence. If so, they will face a criminal conviction whatever the extent of their ill-gotten gain. How can B P Collins help? B P Collins has lawyers who specialise in contested probate cases from a civil perspective as well as specialists in criminal law. The team at B P Collins has experience of successfully taking probate fraud cases to trial in civil courts as well as working with the police to encourage and assist with criminal prosecutions. The police are under-resourced and may feel that they need to prioritise their efforts on other cases. B P Collins can help with your investigation into a will or a probate process and advise on whether there is enough evidence to pursue a civil claim and / or justification to open a criminal case. We can gather evidence on your behalf and ask the police to investigate and take the case forward, at the same time as your civil action, or instead of it. For further information or advice please contact Jonothan Moss or Craig Williams on 01753 889995 or email enquiries@bpcollins.co.uk.
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OUT & ABOUT
Sandleswood View by Landmark Group
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hat a year; 2020 has left quite the impression on us. We aren’t sure what the end of the year is to bring but if the first 6 months are anything to go by, we are in for quite a ride! We are chatting with Mav Sandhu @ Landmark Group. A longtime friend and collaborator of Life Magazines, this will be the 5th time that we have featured a Landmark project on our front page. We are spending some time over at “Sandleswood View” in Woodchester Park, Beaconsfield. Hi Mav- it seems almost strange to ask given the circumstances, but how are you?! Really well, thank you- adjusting to “the new normal” I guess! The events of this year have had a profound impact on everyone around us, and it’s clear that the after-shock, specifically relating to Covid-19, will be felt for some time. That being said, we have managed to keep most sites open. the safety of our staff is of course, of the utmost importance. We have been maintaining social distancing and operating a reduced crew size across all sites. I am really proud that this development has been completed in such challenging times, and it is a real testament to our teams and their dedication that we have managed to get it finished, and to the luxury Landmark standard you would expect. 32 AUGUST 2020
Considering the events of the last 4 months, it is quite the achievement that you have managed to complete this project. What can you tell us about it? “Sandleswood View” is our first foray into this market and is a development of four luxury apartments. Each boast between two and three bedrooms and is located in the much sought after Woodchester Park, Beaconsfield. It is a unique development, unlike anything on the market.
Situated slightly away from the busy Penn Road, but still under a mile from the High Street, it offers a calm oasis whilst still affording easy access to local eateries and shopping. As you would expect from a Landmark development, there is smart home automation and bespoke kitchens and bathrooms throughout. However, we think our clients want something more. Given the recent pandemic, we have all come to understand the importance of local outdoor space. With the trend towards people staying close to home, having your own large garden with lovely walks in the local vicinity has never been more important. “Sandleswood View” offers all this and more. The apartments are thoughtfully appointed with large, airy spaces to enjoy throughout. Due to their location, each of the apartments is also very private with beautiful views to the front and rear. We have worked hard to create a space that is in keeping with this semi-rural location but still has all of the modern conveniences one would expect from a luxury apartment. We have already sold one apartment and are undertaking socially distanced or remote viewings for a number of interested parties for the remaining three. We are also launching two houses in the same development, these will be coming to market in the autumn of 2020 and offer larger family homes. They will comprise five bedrooms/ four bathrooms, large living space, and beautifully landscaped gardens. The apartments are really stunning, and we look forward to seeing the houses on the development soon.
What’s next for Landmark Group? We have a few projects that are coming up that are completely different to anything we have done in the past. One is a stunning single residence in Richmond Wood, Sunningdale. Approaching 12,000 square feet, it has luxurious, custom built bathrooms and kitchen and all the amenities you would expect from a Landmark development. It will also come to the market complete with swim spa, sauna, (the “Wellness centre”!) handcrafted wine display and a really special home cinema. On the other end of the spectrum, we are working on 24 apartments in the centre of Slough. This development represents our first high rise building and has proven to have its own challenges, unique to this kind of construction. We are really excited about both and will of course give “Life” the exclusive when we launch. Until then, take care and stay safe! landmark-group.co.uk
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OUT & ABOUT
New social-distance friendly walks launched in the Chilterns
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he Chilterns Conservation Board and Chiltern Society have developed a series of 23 walks across the Chilterns which are social-distance friendly, avoiding crowded ‘honey-pot’ locations and narrow paths where possible. Between 2 and 6 miles long, the walks start in market towns or villages, with good public transport links or parking facilities, and are being launched to coincide with the re-opening of many pubs and cafes.
“Many of the walks are stile-free and most are under 4 miles long, making them accessible to many” The Chilterns has some outstanding food and drink producers and these walks highlight the many farm shops nearby that are open for business and selling Chilterns local specialities to enjoy on a picnic, or to take home- everything from local honey, beer, cheeses, charcuterie, grass fed lamb and much more. The walks were developed by 18 volunteers, all experienced walk leaders who are passionate about the Chilterns and keen to share some of their favourite walks away from the crowds. All the routes take in the beautiful rolling landscapes of the Chilterns, picturesque villages, and plenty of historic interest too, from old drovers routes to iron age hillforts. Discover 34 AUGUST 2020
places with wonderful names like Nanfan Wood, Lilley Hoe and Cobblershill. And some walks start on commons or at recreation grounds with lots of open space, so ideal for families or friends to combine with a picnic and for kids to run around safely. Annette Venters of the Chilterns Conservation Board said “During Lockdown the Chilterns countryside has been used and enjoyed as never before, bringing comfort and joy to many. The well-used honey-pot sites can get very crowded, making social distancing difficult and putting pressure on the landscape. Luckily, the Chilterns has over 2,000km of footpaths, so there are plenty of quiet places to enjoy. We hope these walks will encourage people to explore the Chilterns and discover new places”. Many of the walks are stile-free and most are under 4 miles long, making them accessible to many. Whilst we want more people to enjoy the benefits of walking in the Chilterns, we ask them to do this safely and responsibly by, for example, taking litter home, not lighting fires and barbeques, and keeping dogs under control. See our website for further guidance. The walks can be downloaded free of charge, see www.bit.ly/2AyCFBP for further information and chilternsociety.org.uk/ free-walks-leaflets for other walks in the Chilterns.
Here is a taster of some of the walks:
• Pub walks from Great Offley and Pegsdon in the northern Chilterns. The Pegdson walk passes through Knocking Hoe and Hoo Bit nature reserves with outstanding views and witchcraft-sounding plant names like fleawort, eyebright and harebells. • Many of the walks take in famous TV and film locations. The Hound of the Baskervilles walk from Binfield Heath takes in the historic Crowsley Park. • There are walks through historic parks, nature reserves, drovers routes, stretches of the Ridgeway National Trail, past churches, iron age hillforts, Hellfire Caves and Berkhamsted Castle. • Le De Spencer Arms on Downley Common, the Red Lion on Peppard Common and the Cock and Rabbit on Lee Common are just some of the wonderful country pubs along our routes.
OUT & ABOUT
Mr Hobbs 150 London Dry Gin followed by the refreshing citrus notes of Yuzu, Lemon and Lime. A serious Gin that will leave you wanting more! This is a luxurious libation to be sipped and cherished, exquisitely balanced with a premium light tonic water and you can garnish this celebratory beverage with fresh lime & ginger to bring out the perfectly balanced botanicals, or it can be effortlessly enjoyed in a myriad of cocktails. This spirit makes a refined drink with just the right amount of classic juniper notes. 70cl 40%ABV Pre-Orders are available now via their website, the first batch will be produced and delivered in the first week of September 2020. If you order a bottle of 70cl Mr Hobbs Gin online between now and launch they’ll also include a 5cl mini version of the new gin to make the perfect G&T at home and you will be one of the very first to try their latest addition. mrhobbsgin.com hello@mrhobbsgin.co.uk
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fter many months of Covid related delays and disturbances, the team at Mr Hobbs Gin are now ready to launch their brand new, much anticipated Mr Hobbs 150 London Dry Gin. The Mr Hobbs Gin range of products was originally launched in 2017 and is brought to you by the family pleasure boating business, Hobbs of Henley, based along the banks of Henley, who give you the most enjoyable way to “mess about on the river’’ with the largest fleet of vessels on the Thames. They have a portfolio of cherished family tipples, including a distilled gin with a citrus twist and two fruit flavoured gin liqueurs which pair perfectly with prosecco, each a nod to their Henley history. Hobbs of Henley was founded in 1870 by mischievous gin lover Harry Hobbs, and they are now officially starting to celebrate their 150th anniversary with the launch of Mr Hobbs 150 after the pandemic postponements. It’s a classic London Dry Gin with quintessential English heritage. Bursting with 14 botanicals including the light perfumed notes of Cubeb Berries with warmth and spice from Black Pepper and Cardamom. There are nuanced floral notes from Meadowsweet and Elderflower that are both locally sourced on the Riverbanks of the Thames, 36 AUGUST 2020
“Hobbs of Henley was founded in 1870 by mischievous gin lover Harry Hobbs, and they are now officially starting to celebrate their 150th anniversary with the launch of Mr Hobbs 150 after the pandemic postponements”
Authentic Indian Food coming soon to Huddle 5 Station Road, Gerrards Cross, SL9 8ES
OUT & ABOUT
Chilfest Outdoor Cinema presses ‘play’ in Tring!
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ollowing the difficult decision to cancel the main festival, due to the Covid-19 pandemic and lockdown measures, Steve Butcher and his team have pulled together nine weekends of alternative entertainment for local film lovers. The beautiful Pendley Manor’s Meadow will be transformed into an outdoor cinema every weekend from now until mid-September. These shows take place in the evening, but there will also be some family friendly matinees scheduled before the final September weekend. All ages will love seeing Toy Story, The Lion King or Paddington whilst soaking up summer vibes. The audience will enjoy viewing an enormous 10m x 4m screen and high quality audio will be played through personal wireless headphones. There are a range of ticket options available, including a Premium Ticket which comes with a deckchair in prime position. All the required social-distancing, health, safety and hygiene measures will be in place for these events.
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Steve Butcher, Chilfest Director, is really pleased to be bringing some events to Tring’s summer calendar, ‘We’ve worked hard to ensure we can provide the best possible experience for all our visitors. It’s been a challenging time for my business and my employees, but this event series gives us some hope for the industry and has certainly been keeping us busy! We’ve done everything possible to ensure everyone is safe and happy. Chilfest Outdoor Cinema is going to be great fun for all the family!’ There will also be food and drink on offer such as hot dogs, pizzas, a bar offering wine, lager and craft beer, ice cream and of course there will be plenty of popcorn! Just a handful of the classic films to expect over future shows include: Dirty Dancing, Back To The Future, Quadrophenia, Yesterday, Jaws and Blade Runner. Local businesses have also jumped at the chance to advertise on the big screen. Isalie Catering, Evans Denham, Pendley Manor, The Home Office, Zest Yoga, Tring Tornadoes, Birth & Beyond, Anglo Dutch and Tring Brewery are amongst those whose adverts will be shown before and after movies during the summer.
READER COMPETITION Life Magazines have a PREMIUM PACKAGE FOR TWO to give away to the showing of your choice* this includes 2 premium tickets with a deckchair, meal and drink for both people. To be in with a chance of winning please email your name and address to abi@fishmediagroup.co.uk with the email titled ‘Chilfest competition’ no later than Wednesday 12th August
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OUT & ABOUT
The Ivy, Marlow Garden
W
ith normality starting to creep back into our lives, we enjoyed a night at the Ivy Marlow Garden earlier this week. It is really easy to ‘forget’ that we are not back to normal, however, re-assuring to know that the venue had it covered and are fully prepared for their return to opening. Upon arrival, even before you enter the restaurant we were faced with a machine that took our temperature simply with us standing in front of it. That was nerve-racking, a group of four adults, what if one of us had a high temperature? 42 AUGUST 2020
Passing that test, the next process was the footoperated hand sanitiser. The precautions here certainly enabled us to feel safe in the knowledge that the Ivy Marlow Garden were doing everything they could to protect us. The restaurant was busy for a Monday yet, on closer inspection it was clear to see that there was good spacing in between the tables. Another tick to say they were taking our safety seriously. Many of the staff wore face masks, apart from those that had to interact with us yet, the social distancing was all adhered to. We chose to sit outside in the courtyard which I am so pleased about. It felt airy yet, with the roof half-open, wasn’t cold at all. Each table had its own spray dispenser of hand sanitiser so again, the reassurance that precautions were being taken. We had a great start to the evening with some cocktails. Our waiter was called Dan. He totally deserves a mention for his ability to be chatty, but not overly, funny but not cheesy – and he knew the menu well. Advice was given when asked for. For starters we had a variety of dishes, duck salad, scallops but the winner was most definitely the jackfruit and peanut salad. Wonderful taste and texture. For mains, various steaks were chosen and all cooked to perfection and the sides of chips and green vegetables were perfectly proportioned. Pudding was a very dramatic affair. The Chocolate bombe melting under the hot salted caramel sauce, and the Apple tart fine with vanilla ice cream and Calvados flambé were both fun to watch. . At a time when ‘going out’ is very different, and ‘normal’ is so far removed from ‘normal as we know it’ it has to be said, The Ivy Marlow Garden are actively following guidelines and doing everything in their power to keep us safe. theivymarlowgarden.com or call 01628 902 777
Eat Out to Help The Ivy Marlow Garden is delighted to be supporting the Government’s Eat Out to Help Out initiative this August, with half price off all food and soft drinks up to the value of £10 per person every Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday, on all menus. To mark the occasion, the team have been busy creating a new and bespoke set menu. Available all day from 11.30am Monday – Wednesday, guests can choose from either two courses for £30 or three for £35 before the offer is applied, and discover the delights of the brasserie’s crispy duck salad, mouth-watering roast beef fillet, or the infamous melting chocolate bombe.
OUT & ABOUT
Chef Laurie Gear
August recipe & kitchen news
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ummer is now in full swing and the abundance of summer produce is making its way into the kitchen garden peas, broad and runner beans, courgettes, blackcurrants, beetroot, fennel apricots and our namesake globe artichokes just to name a few. Freshly caught mackerel and Dorset crab are particularly good at this time of year and it is also time to celebrate the English cherry season. The area near to the Artichoke was once
renowned for the harvesting of cherries and if you look at the hedgerows and countryside around you, you will discover large amounts of wild cherry trees and bushes. These cherries were spotted in a country lane near our home in Sarratt and it has been a particularly good year. After gaining permission form the local farm, we foraged the plump red and black cherries and pickled them for this seasonal dessert, also delicious as a cocktail steeped in Somerset Apple Brandy or a liqueur and served with English sparkling wine!
RECIPE: Pickled Black Cherry Jelly with Cherry Sorbet Serves 6 Black Cherry Jelly • 250g sugar • 1 lemon (zest and juice) • 500g water • 30g Cabernet Sauvignon vinegar • 30g cherry puree • 5 sprigs of lemon verbena • 1 pan of fresh cherries • 2½ leaves of bronze leaf gelatine Cherry Sorbet • 100g cherry puree • 125g stock syrup • 30g lime juice • 10g lemon juice • 12g cherry brandy Cherry Jelly 1. Mix all ingredients, except fresh cherries and gelatine, and bring to the boil. 2. Leave the liquid to infuse as it cools down. 3. Cut cherries in half and poach them lightly in the before made liqueur. 4. Strain the liqueur. 5. Weigh out 450g of the before strained liquid, rest can be frozen and used another time, and add 2½ leaves of bronze leaf gelatin. Bring liquid to the boil, whilst whisking, and wait for the mixture to thicken. 6. Pour jelly into individual bowls, add the before poached cherry halves, and store in the fridge to cool down and set. 44 AUGUST 2020
Cherry Sorbet 1. Add the 100g cherry puree to 125g stock syrup and gently mix. Add the rest of the ingredients and combine. 2. Churn in an ice cream machine. Alternatively, place in a tub in a freezer and beat mixture every hour, until set. To serve Demould jelly onto a dessert plate and add two quenelles of the sorbet. Garnish with fresh lemon verbena, if you have and serve with a scoop of mascarpone cream or crème fraiche.
Exclusive Lunch wTasting Menu Offer To celebrate the re-opening of the Artichoke, we invite you to join us for - a complimentary glass of English Cherry Fizz made with hand-picked cherries from Sarratt steeped in Somerset Apple brandy with sparkling English wine upon arrival, to accompany our Lunch Tasting Menu. This fabulous Tasting Lunch Offer is available from Wednesday to Friday throughout September 2020 for just £40.00 per person - optional wine flight £26.00 additional sixth course for an extra £6.00 (Maximum of 6 guests per reservation) ***please, mention ‘lunch tasting offer’ when making your reservation The Artichoke Restaurant 9 Market Square Old Amersham Tel: 01494 726611 artichokerestaurant.co.uk
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OUT & ABOUT
Design Centre, Chelsea Harbour Announces new format for
Focus/20 13 – 18 September 2020
I
n this most unprecedented of years, the annual autumn design event will be recalibrated to provide a unique platform for 120 showrooms and 600 international brands to present their new collections. A collaboration of ingenuity, creativity and positivity, the pioneering hybrid show will strengthen the Design Centre’s mantra to ‘connect, converse and create’ at a physical event in London, as well as reach out to a wider global audience, remotely. The safety and well-being of its community and visitors is a priority, and every aspect of Focus/20 will be highly considered. Operating within government guidelines, tailored visits will bring people to the Design Centre, while a virtual programme will share online the same culture of generosity and celebration that permeates all editions of the show. In the last months, decor has never come under greater scrutiny. People cooped up at home are craving change and professional designers have taken on new work and are completing existing projects. Visitors to Focus/20 will be able to see in person those elements that are vital to their schemes: those first looks of the latest colours, patterns and materials, alongside key details like scale, craftsmanship and artisan finishes. Adding
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THE DETAILS
another layer, a curated selection of house guests in the Design Avenue will bring fresh perspectives. The online programme aims to spark everyone’s imagination and curiosity. An exceptional line-up of live stream webinars and talks will see international designers, experts and thought leaders share their work and specialist knowledge, alongside discussions on what’s shaping the future of design and business-focused sessions about how to take a professional practice to the next level. There will be insider insights into the new collections and inspiring sessions that enhances discovery of the world’s most exciting design brands. As a Design Destination at the London Design Festival, Focus/20 is proud to be at the heart of the wider momentum across the capital.
For more details visit dcch.co.uk 13 – 18 September 2020, 10am – 6pm #Focus20AtDCCH @designcentrech
OUT & ABOUT
TATE MODERN presents Andy Warhol
A
Until 15 November 2020. A new look at the extraordinary life and work of the pop art superstar
ndy Warhol (1928–87) was one of the most recognisable artists of the late 20th century, yet his life and work continue to fascinate and be interpreted anew. A shy, gay man from a religious, migrant, low income household, he forged his own distinct path to emerge as the epitome of the pop art movement. This major new exhibition at Tate Modern – the first at the gallery for almost 20 years – offers visitors a rare personal insight into how Warhol and his work marked a period of cultural transformation. Drawing upon recent scholarship, it will provide a new lens through which to view this American icon. Featuring over 100 works from across his remarkable career, the show will shed light on how Warhol’s experiences helped shape his unique take on 20th century culture, positioning him within the shifting creative and political landscape in which he worked. While he is best known for his iconic paintings of Coca-Cola bottles and Marilyn Monroe that held up a mirror to American culture, the exhibition will emphasise recurring themes around desire, identity and belief that emerge from Warhol’s biography. Key works from the pop period, such as Marilyn Diptych 1962, Elvis I and II 1963/1964 and Race Riot 1964, will be examined in relation to contemporary issues around American culture and politics, while Warhol’s limitless ambition to push the boundaries of media will be represented via his famous Screen Tests 1964–6 and a recreation of the psychedelic multimedia environment of Exploding Plastic Inevitable 1966. Visitors will also be able to experience Warhol’s floating Silver Clouds 1966 installation, initially meant to signal his ‘retirement’ from painting in favour of moviemaking. He famously stated that ‘good business is the best art’: the exhibition will look at how Warhol’s forays into publishing and TV, as well as his interest in club culture.
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The exhibition will emphasise his skill as a painter and colourist with a room dedicated to the largest grouping of his 1975 Ladies and Gentlemen series ever shown in the UK. These striking portraits depict figures from New York’s transgender community, including iconic performer and activist, Marsha ‘Pay it no mind’ Johnson - a prominent figure in the Stonewall uprising of 1969. Warhol’s final works of the 80s, such as the poignant Sixty Last Suppers 1986 – on view at Tate Modern for the first time in this country – will be considered in relation to the artist’s untimely death as well as the unfolding HIV/AIDS epidemic, which ultimately went on to impact the lives of many in his close circle. The exhibition will be accompanied by a fully illustrated catalogue, as well as an extensive programme of public talks and film screenings with exclusive new merchandise collections in the gallery shops. For further information call 020 7887 8888 visit tate.org.uk or follow @Tate #AndyWarhol
Top: Debbie Harry 1980, Private Collection of Phyllis and Jerome Lyle Rappaport 1961 © 2019 The Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts, Inc / Artists Right Society (ARS), New York and DACS, London Left: Marilyn Diptych 1962, Tate © 2019 The Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts, Inc / Artists Right Society (ARS), New York and DACS, London Above: Self Portrait 1986, Tate © 2019 The Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts, Inc / Artists Right Society (ARS), New York and DACS, London
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TRAVEL
The secrets of Amsterdam of the NDSM Wharf district. Even fewer visit. This former shipyard, located a 20-minute ferry ride away from the city centre, closed in 1984 and remained empty until squatters moved in during the 1990s. It’s since become a thriving cultural centre, with warehouses converted into studios covered with bold murals, trendy waterside cafes and fine examples of early 20th century Amsterdam architecture. See it on the Hidden Gems walk (E62.33/£53pp).
Seeing Red
Despite grumblings of overtourism, there are still ways to find hidden corners of this popular city break destination.
T
hey say the more the merrier, but that might not strictly be the case in Amsterdam. With more than 19 million people visiting last year alone, overtourism is a hot topic for many of the 850,000 residents of Europe’s most liberal and tolerant capital. Local politicians are calling for a reversal of the ‘Disneyfication’ of the city, which begs the question: Should we all stay away? “Absolutely not,” says Nick Boulos, travel writer and founder of city adventure website MakeMyDay (makemyday. travel). “We all have a duty to travel more responsibly and that means thinking more creatively and engaging with a destination in a more original way.” With that in mind, here’s Boulos’ pick of the most original experiences that will ensure you escape the crowds and discover a secret side to Amsterdam...
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Escape to the country Famously as flat as a pancake, the Dutch countryside is not only a complete joy to cycle but also a revelation in its beauty and charm. The Cycle The Country (E34/£29) bike tour reveals some of the best and most picturesque countryside that awaits just beyond the city limits. The route is leisurely, covering 30km (18.5 miles) through quiet villages, fields filled with cows and windmills, and glorious coastal pathways with sea breezes that will put a real spring in your step.
No visit to Amsterdam would be complete without at least a short stroll through the Red Light District. Formerly known as The Wallen, the historical area has a racy past and one that evokes a lot of questions and curiosity. It’s also a corner of the city heavily under threat with tour groups being banned from next year, but it’s still possible to discover the truth of Amsterdam’s most infamous enclave and the women who work there. The intimate Hidden Gems walk (E60.83/£52pp), led by a city local, is a rare opportunity to gain an in-depth understanding of this polarising industry in a way that’s both revealing and, more importantly, respectful.
Paddle Power Around the world Decades of immigration from places are far flung as Indonesia and secretive Suriname in South America has changed the very fabric of Amsterdam and the Multicultural Marvel tour (E68/£58pp) celebrates its multicultural present through its cuisine. Not only will you discover emerging neighbourhoods, including Indische Buurt, but you’ll also hear stories and sample delicious delicacies from individuals and communities that have settled here hoping for a new life, including a sit down with an Iraqi greengrocer and a portion of mango hummus that will change your life.
Northern Light While the vast majority of visitors can be found blushing in the Red Light District and queuing outside Anne Frank’s house, very few have heard
The canals of Amsterdam played a crucial role in the city becoming the wealthiest in the world during the fabled Golden Age. This is your chance to explore them like never before - on a stand-up paddleboard (Paddle Power tour from E50/£43). Perfect for all levels, including wobbly complete beginners, this guided tour covers around 5km of quiet waterways while taking in sights such as the only surviving windmill in the city centre, old spice warehouses, an 18th century cargo ship and even some elephants (you’ll paddle past the zoo, so keep your eyes peeled). These experiences and more are available from MakeMyDay (makemyday.travel). Eurostar (eurostar.com) offers direct services to Amsterdam from London St. Pancras from £35 one-way. Double rooms at the Victoria Park Plaza (parkplaza.co.uk) start from £180 with breakfast.
TRAVEL
HOW TO PROTECT YOUR FUTURE TRAVEL PLANS As international travel opens up, we caught up with personalised management company Winged Boots to find out what we should look out for when booking our next holiday
I
f a worldwide pandemic has taught us one thing, it’s to never take anything for granted. Spending time with family, exploring the world and making memories… life is about filling our hearts not our bank accounts. Now that travel is accessible, and after so much time in the same small bubble, a holiday is just what some of us need. Whether you choose a UK staycation, a trip to Europe or even further afield, be sure to do your research before booking and speak to a trusted and experienced travel agency. To give you the lowdown, we spoke to our friends at Winged Boots, a personalised management agency that specialises in luxury travel to pick their brains on what to consider when booking your next holiday.
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FLEXIBILITY “Read the terms and conditions and make sure your travel plans have good flexibility before committing,” advises David Ox, Winged Boots’ managing director. “Airlines are offering fantastic terms at present, and an experienced travel agent will ensure that hotels provide flexible conditions too. “This is where travel agents will prevail over the internet. Booking your holiday with someone who is experienced in the industry, who has great relationships with suppliers and can call a hotel directly with any requests and customer questions; in my opinion, this customer service will far succeed a quick click of a button on a price comparison site,” he adds.
“All Winged Boots’ personal travel managers hold a minimum five-years’ experience and the business is built around its outstanding reputation”
“THERE’S NEVER BEEN A BETTER TIME TO TRAVEL” David shares his firsthand experience of what it’s like to travel now
All Winged Boots’ personal travel managers hold a minimum five-years’ experience and the business is built around its outstanding reputation and five-star customer service. The friendly and knowledgeable team has visited every continent and can share first-hand experience for hotels from around the world, offering a personal insight that no amount of internet research will be able to offer.
ACCREDITATIONS It goes without saying that you want to book with an agency that has its travel accreditations and licenses. “Winged Boots is protected by ATOL, a government-run financial protection scheme operated by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA),” explains David. ATOL covers package holidays that include flights and means that if the ATOL protected company fails and your holiday can no longer go ahead you will be entitled to a refund if you are yet to travel, and hotel costs and flights home if you are abroad.
and knowledge with its members to support travel companies, with the customer always at the forefront. “Your money sits in a trust account, under lock and key. Every penny is protected, and should the worst happen, and your holiday is cancelled for matters out of your control, your money is safe,” David confirms. Exactly what you want to hear in the current worldwide climate. We hope this has given you the support to book your next trip with complete confidence. For more information or to book your next holiday contact personalised travel management company Winged Boots on 0203 319 4404 or email info@wingedboots.co.uk for your complimentary, no-obligation quote. For further travel inspiration visit wingedboots.co.uk
“I flew to Spain in July and was shocked at the short queues throughout the airports. Other holidaymakers kept their distance and all respected social distancing guidelines. It was very polite. “The resort was quiet, usually unheard of during peak summer season, but it was a pleasure to be there. The service levels are so high, and the locals are grateful for the tourism. Everyone from taxi drivers through to restaurant owners were friendly and welcoming. We had a fantastic stay. “Never has there been - and neither is there likely to be - a time like this to travel internationally. The entire experience was great, and I am already planning a weekend trip for August.”
FINANCIAL PROTECTION And finally, be sure to book with a company that offers complete financial protection. “We’re part of The Travel Trust Association (TTA),” David explains. “The TTA is one of the leading associations for the travel industry and is the only network in the UK to offer 100% financial protection to the consumer, ensuring total customer confidence.” With more than 20-years of industry experience, the TTA also shares its passion, expertise, skills AUGUST 2020 53
TRAVEL
Best golf courses to enjoy around the world
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ith golf back on the agenda, apparently tee times are selling out fast across the UK. Once golf enthusiasts have perfected their skills at home, they will be ready for some of the best courses around the world once we can travel again. To save you time, Hills Balfour have pulled together some of the best golf courses worldwide from North Carolina to Mauritius for golf lovers to start dreaming. Play the course of champions at Pinehurst in North Carolina This golfer’s paradise is known as the St Andrews of American golf with nine courses scattered among the Carolina pines and steeped in history. The No. 2 course, designed by Donald Ross, is one of the world’s most celebrated golf courses and it may also be the closest America has to a traditional Scottish links course. It has served as the site of the most single golf championships than any course in America and hosted back-to-back U.S Open and U.S Women’s Open Championships for the first time in 2014. The U.S Open Championship will be returning in 2024. pinehurst.com/golf
Take in Canada’s breath-taking views at Cobble Beach Golf Links, Ontario Perched atop the rocky cliff tops of Georgian Bay overlooking the serene Lake Huron, the Cobble Beach Golf Links offers a great location to play a round of golf. The course was designed by prolific architect Doug Carrick, who created this fastrunning green with small pot bunkers and fantastic lake views. After playing, guests can make use of the award-winning Nantucket-style Clubhouse and its Sweetwater Restaurant & Bar, with a wraparound terrace offering the perfect spot to sit back and take in the impressive views. cobblebeach.com 54 AUGUST 2020
Play legendary golfer, Jack Nicklaus’ favourite course, Puerto Rico Home to a hole proclaimed to be ‘one of the top 10 holes in the world’ by legendary golfer, Jack Nicklaus, Dorado Beach, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve in Puerto Rico offers golfers two challenging courses amongst island paradise. Designed by renowned golf architect Robert Trent Jones Sr, the resort’s two courses, East and Sugarcane, present players with both the joy and challenge of the sport. Designed to capture the beauty of nature, the courses offer 18 holes each and uses native sand, man-made rivers and contoured bunkers to test even the most seasoned golfer. ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/puerto-rico/ dorado-beach
“Designed by renowned golf architect Robert Trent Jones Sr, the resort’s two courses, East and Sugarcane, present players with both the joy and challenge of the sport”
TRAVEL
Hone your skills with an expert PGA-certified instructor at Boulders Resort and Spa in Scottsdale, Arizona Named after the 12-million-year-old Boulder formations in which the resort stands, this luxurious hideaway is surrounded by the Sonoran Desert and nature that has been intentionally left untouched, allowing indigenous flora and fauna to thrive. Scottsdale’s Boulder’s Resort and Spa is home to two-award winning golf courses designed by renowned golf architect Jay Morrish. Both courses feature 18 holes and were designed to take advantage of the unique terrain around boulder formations and natural vegetation. Players can take advantage of the ‘Caddiemaster’ programme where certified caddie professionals who know the tricks and the challenges of the golf courses help a player’s tee shot. This is the course on which to refine and perfect your skills with the expertise of the resorts PGA and LPGA-certified instructors. theboulders.com Tee off with the Arabian Gulf as your backdrop at Saadiyat Beach Golf Club, Abu Dhabi Keen golfers staying at the Rixos Premium Saadiyat Island hotel are perfectly placed across the road from one of the most spectacular golf courses in the region, the Saadiyat Beach Golf Club. The Abu Dhabi course is billed as the Arabian Gulf ’s first ocean-fronted course, meaning
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players can tee off alongside the azure coastline, with the chance to spot dolphins and turtles out at sea. The Gary Player-designed 18-hole championship course is a Par 72 course, designed with both amateurs and professionals in mind, weaving around five-star hotels, salt-water lakes and sand dunes, with six holes featuring panoramic Gulf views. Following a round, golfers can relax in the course’s Hawksbill Restaurant – named after the endangered turtles that lay their eggs on the nearby dunes – or head back to their hotel to take a dip in the warm sea and dine at one of the many a la carte restaurants. troonabudhabi.com Play in one of Japan’s most beautiful golf courses at Prince Kawana Hotel, Japan The Izu Peninsula is home to two of Japan’s most spectacular golf courses: Fuji Course and Oshima Course. It was also Marilyn Monroe and Joe DiMaggio’s honeymoon destination. Surrounded by the beautiful greenery of the courses and blues of the Pacific, the hotel provides unprecedented access to some of Japan’s most sought-after golfing spots. Exclusively available for hotel guests, the famous Fuji Course is considered among one of the best in the world for both its beauty and its challenges. Designed by C.H. Alison, the 18-hole course opened in 1936, and makes good use of the rich natural features of the area, ensuring golfers can enjoy the breath-taking scenery of the area whilst making their way around the course. Alternatively, the Oshima Course, framed by the impressive colours of Sagami Bay, makes for an enjoyable day for beginners. After a day of golfing, guests can enjoy a dip in the luxurious Brisa Marina Onsen with amazing sea views. princehotels.com/kawana
Enjoy golfing in the south of the island at The Avalon Golf Estate, Mauritius (below) Located in the heart of nature in Bois Cheri in the South of Mauritius, this course is designed to offer golfers the chance to enjoy the natural beauty of the course and its surroundings as they play a round. It is the only inland course on the island, making it easily accessible from all areas of Mauritius and offering cooler temperatures amongst the south-central mountains. This 18hole international standard golf course was designed by worldrenowned South African architect Peter Matkovich and offers a diverse setting of tea plantations, rivers, ravines and mountains combined with sweeping views of the Southern coastline and spectacular Indian Ocean. avalon.mu/golf
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fashion, HEALTH
& beauty – Fashion, health and beauty news to keep you looking and feeling your best – i m a g e : SIL K E LONDON
FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY
[NEWS]
FASHION & BEAUTY SUPER-CHIC FOR SUMMER IT’S A WRAP! Here at Life Magazines we love the hair wrap from Silke London. Tested on hair with extensions that have been coloured and always a tangled mess in the mornings, the results are impressive! No knots, tangles or frizz. Waking up to hair as straight and silky as it was at bed time. The hair ties are great, they slide out really easily and as promised, no kinks or damage to already weak and brittle hair. The write ups are great, the reviews even better! Go see for yourself at silkelondon.com
KISS AND MAKE UP If you’re ready to get savvy about your beauty routine, you can’t go past Young Living’s new natural makeup line, Savvy Minerals by Young Living. This natural mineral-based makeup collection combines premium formulas with pure ingredients to embrace your natural beauty without sacrificing your skincare standards. youngliving.com
PURITY PROTECTS We love this hand sanitiser: the plant based alcohol is proven to kill 99.9% of all bacteria and microbes; With aloe vera and essential oils. puritx.com 60 AUGUST 2020
For unique pieces your friends won’t have, head to new superchic boutique, FABRIC, in Old Amersham. Stocking cool and casual European clothes, such as this pretty candy-stripe wrap dress from Barcelona based brand, Designers Society - your go-to for boho chic. Pop in to FABRIC and browse their easy-to-wear collections for your summer fashion inspo. fabricfashionstore.co.uk
A CLOSE SHAVE In times of environmental crisis, it’s incumbent on a gentleman to do his bit for the planet – ditching a plastic razor for a once-in-alifetime stainless steel safety razor. wildeandharte.co.uk
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FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY
Returning To The ‘New Normal’ at S-Thetics Clinic We Meet Beaconsfield-Based Former NHS Surgeon And Cosmetic Doctor, Miss Sherina Balaratnam to find out more about how the S-Thetics Medical Aesthetic Clinic in Beaconsfield Old Town is adapting to the ‘New Normal’. allows us to maintain ‘face to face’ contact, but most importantly, to ensure we are optimising and enhancing your treatment plans and at-home regimes, to maximise your results.
How Will Your NHS Background Aid The Transition Into This New Normal? Coming from a medical family where my father and both of my brothers are also Doctors, patient care and safety is foremost in my DNA. With my own background as an NHS surgeon and with two experienced former NHS nurses amongst our team of Medical Practitioners, we have considerable experience with infection control processes, measures and best practice, offering our patients a safe, comfortable environment. I am very proud of how my team have adjusted during this time and I know our patients are delighted to be seeing them and be treated by them again. How Have You Adapted Using Technology? We already use a range of advanced technology within the clinic, such as the VISIA for sub-surface skin imaging, VECTRA for 360 full body imaging and true next-generation technology such as the Picosure laser, which fires energy pulses at one trillionth of a second to rejuvenate skin. We launched our online skincare store just before lock down, meaning that our patients could continue their skincare regimes from home. One of the real benefits has been Zoom, which we use for new patient consultations as well as skincare and treatment follow up. This 62 AUGUST 2020
What Has Been Your Experience So Far Since Reopening? With people spending more time at-home, our patients are increasingly focused on how to maintain their results, from home. We introduced specific at-home facial treatments, energy-based devices for skin tightening and rejuvenation as well as our full skincare range being available to order via our online store. We have been speaking with and listening to our patients throughout this time and have adjusted accordingly, with more evening and weekend appointments available to fit around their lifestyles and commitments. A number of our patients have told us that we are the first environment, other than their home, that they are entering since the start of lock down. That is incredibly humbling for us to hear, and demonstrates a level of trust and confidence in the professionalism of my team and our protocols, that I am very proud of.
the details S-Thetics Medical Aesthetic Clinic, Marlborough House, 45 Wycombe End, Beaconsfield, Buckinghamshire, HP9 1LZ P. 01494 670990 E. info@sthetics.co.uk sthetics.co.uk
FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY
The Perfect Red Lip
We put three new releases to the test.
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he ideal red lip is the holy grail of make-up. We all have different colourings, so the perfect lipstick varies from person to person, but there are some constants we look for. This might be the lipstick’s staying power, its texture or how easy it is to apply. Many of us have had the same faithful lippy for years, but what if there’s a better option out there? Yes, trying a new lipstick is a gamble, but we’ve done the hard work for you. We put three new releases to the test, to see if it really is possible to nail the perfect red lip...
Georgia tried... KVD XO Vinyl Lip Cream in Tulip
Sophie tried... Stila Shine Fever Lip Vinyl in Hot Pursuit On first inspection, Stila’s latest offering has a slick consistency, which looks like a smooth, coloured gloss. But it’s the strong colour when applied that makes this product different - it’s so highly pigmented, it’s almost opaque. Hot Pursuit is a deep, dark cherry red (and even smells of cherries) with a slight blue tint - great for making teeth appear whiter. The product is so dense it can be quite hard to even out, and the colour is so dark it’s actually difficult to blend out patchiness. However, this density means you can also use the brush as a lip liner to draw the perfect cupid’s bow, or neaten out the edge of your pout. It does take a while to dry (leaving behind its glossy texture) and eventually goes quite tacky and clings to your lips, giving it good durability - perfect for day-long wear, and it doesn’t smudge after a few drinks. Once dried, it looks more like a matte lipstick with a high, glossy shine, and gives the effect of a plump, pillowy pout. If you’re looking for lacquered lips in a deep, lush, jammy red, Shine Fever Lip Vinyl is a musttry for a touch of Forties Hollywood glamour. Price: £17 66 AUGUST 2020
Claire tried... Diego dalla Palma Moulin Rouge Matt Lipstick in 266 This lipstick glides on like silk and is a seriously beautiful colour, like a scarlet red mixed with a hint of cherry pink - the sort of shade that immediately makes you feel fabulous the second you put it on. The texture is great too, and although it’s matte (I always find less shine preferable), it’s not so dry that it shows up every little line on your lips, which can be ageing. The packaging’s nice and the product looks great, but sadly, this lippy has no staying power. Admittedly, I did eat lunch not long after applying it, but my family were quick to point out it had smudged all over my face. I cleaned myself up and what was left of the colour soon disappeared, which is really disappointing, particularly as it’s not cheap. I wouldn’t trust it in any social situation based on my test, so it looks like it’s a lipstick for lockdown - just a little something to wear around the house. Price: £20.42
I was always firmly in the ‘red lipstick doesn’t suit me’ camp. I thought of it as either too grown-up - I always remember seeing my grandma applying it - or too bold for my skin tone. But the KVD XO Vinyl Lip Cream has converted me. A product that’s suitable for vegans, I tried the shade ‘Tulip’. The formula is unlike anything I’ve used on my lips before, combining bold pigment that goes on like a slick, creamy gloss, but dries quickly with a vinyl-like shine to it. You have to make sure you get the stick right into the corners of the mouth so you have no gaps of colour; KVD recommend using the tip of the applicator to line your lips, then lying the applicator on its side to fill in. I also really appreciated the sweet vanilla scent (I don’t like the weird taste some lipsticks leave behind). As for staying power, it smudged a little when I ate, but the colour remained intense for hours. What I noticed more than anything is how confident I felt wearing this product - I love how glossy it is and how it seemed to plump my lips up. I will be using it on my next trip to a bar, that’s for sure. Price: £14.40 (was £18), Debenhams
FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY
5 OF THE BEST
CAT EYE SUNGLASSES If you have an oval shaped face, lucky you, pretty much any frames suit you, so it’s up to you whether you prefer a skinny or supersized style. If your face is heart-shaped (wider at the top, narrowing to the chin) or triangular (a wider jaw and narrower forehead), the exaggerated brow line of cat eye sunglasses is particularly flattering, but you’ll want to choose larger frames to balance your features. For round faces, you want to complement your shape, so choose angular frames. Similarly, square faces would benefit from a more rounded cat eye look.
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Feline-inspired frames are a summer essential, says Katie Wright.
“If you have an oval shaped face, lucky you, pretty much any frames suit you, so it’s up to you whether you prefer a skinny or supersized style”
hen you think of all the classic sunglasses shapes, from little round frames to giant square shades, perhaps the most divisive of all is the ‘cat eye’. It’s easy to dismiss winged sunnies and claim ‘they don’t suit me’, but in actual fact, they can be hugely flattering for a variety of face shapes - you just need to find the right pair. And that’ll be easy to do this summer, because the eyewear collections are full of catty creations, ready to provide the finishing touch to your floral frocks and jungle print playsuits. So, how do you find the right cat eye sunnies for your face shape?
Ready to find your perfect pair? Here are five of our favourite feline frames... Chimi Aqua #006 Black, £89
Marks and Spencer Collection Angular Cat Eye Sunglasses, £12.50 Topshop Mag Tortoiseshell Feline Sunglasses, £11.20 (were £14) And Other Stories Angular Cat Eye Sunglasses, £23
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Oliver Bonas Oversized Cat Eye Peach Sunglasses, £24
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 AG E : K B STUDIOS
H OUSE & GARDEN
[NEWS]
INTERIORS COCKTAIL HOUR Tray Isola from Artisan Abode features a stunning marble effect paired with a brass look rim and handles with a pretty patina detailing. Ideal for serving drinks at home. The look of a luxury marble without the weight! artisanabode.co.uk
A POP OF COLOUR Upholstered chairs in shades of blue velvet are the perfect foil for a dining table. “We’ve extended the Hamilton collection, adding to the oatmeal and grey linen fabrics to include a lovely pale blue velvet and a royal blue velvet. The chairs look amazing in the new colours, and have really given our Surrey showroom a summery lift,” said Sarah Cook, co-founder of the online luxury furniture and home accessories retailer. The blue dining chairs look particularly striking partnered with La Residence Interiors’ collection of round and rectangular weathered oak dining tables. laresidenceinteriors.co.uk
Futuristic and faceted, Cut from Tom Dixon is an exercise in optics. Its space-age mirror finish when off transforms to reveal a translucent kaleidoscopic gem when switched on. Produced in both chrome and smoke finishes, small and long, pendant and surface. Cluster for maximum effect. brand-designs.com
Relaxed Coastal Vibes Although we may not be able to go on those much-loved holidays to the coast at the moment, it doesn’t mean we can’t create a holiday feel in our homes. The Painted Furniture Company’s laid-back designs and cool colours make this easy to achieve, whether we’re dreaming of a Cornish fishing cottage or a New England beach house. paintedfurnitureco.co.uk
BEST OF BRITISH Marmalade of London produces, beautiful fragranced candles, reed diffusers and hand and body washes and lotions. The brand is proudly handmade in Great Britain. marmaladeoflondon.com 72 AUGUST 2020
Cut above the rest
THE ASpEn poRcELAin Wood TiLE RAngE
1A Brickwall Lane, Ruislip, Middlesex, HA4 8JR - 01895 621 651 18 King Street, Maidenhead, Berkshire SL6 1EF - 01628 624 546
info@spacers-uk.com | maidenhead@spacers-uk.com
H OUSE & GARDEN
ARTISAN ABODE – DECADES
IN DESIGN
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o celebrate ten years providing an interior design service for private clients throughout the UK and overseas, Susan Folwell and Robert Allen of the interior design studio Artisans and Artists launched Artisan Abode in 2019 to take their years of experience designing and sourcing interesting furnishings to a wider audience. The design team have worked on all manner of property including Listed manor houses, waterfront luxury apartments, farmhouses, small country estates, period cottages, luxury new build, and mid twentieth century property which they have re-modelled for clients. Experience of designing for every space in a house, from entrance halls, boot rooms, kitchens, libraries, bedroom suites, bathrooms, orangeries to swimming pool houses, means that the team have extensive experience of bespoke furniture design as well as sourcing beautiful and interesting furnishings from around the world. “We know from our work for our interior design clients what people want and need from their homes, the pitfalls to avoid, the items to spend on and the clever good value finds, it’s all about the mix, hence you will find a wide variety of styles and price points on Artisan Abode, what matters ultimately is good design, quality and value, sound advice and good service. In essence Artisan Abode gives customers access to an interior design ‘little black book’ and a lot of know how.” says Susan Folwell.
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“We felt that there was gap in the market for Artisan Abode to cater for the design savvy customer who may not want to engage an interior designer but who appreciates a well-chosen edit of interesting furnishings and where, if they so wish, they can be given help and advice by an experienced design team, all wrapped up with good service in terms of delivery.” says Robert Allen. The Artisans and Artists studio have designed and produced a capsule collection for Autumn Winter 20 / 21 exclusively for Artisan Abode, part of which is shown here, now available online. Contact Artisan Abode to request a copy of the fabulous AW 20 / 21 Look Book. hello@artisanabode.co.uk artisanabode.co.uk All Images Courtesy and Copyright of Artisans and Artists Limited / Artisan Abode.
“Sourcing of furnishings, artifacts, antiques and art from around the world is at the heart of how the interior design studio achieves its trademark transcendent and soulful interiors, we also bring this to our offering for Artisan Abode.” – Susan Folwell, Creative Director Artisan Abode
H OUSE & GARDEN
Create real impact in your garden!
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his summer has given most people more time to enjoy the garden, and perhaps have new thoughts and ideas about how to make the most of their outdoor space. This is were Practicality Brown can help. Are your fences looking a little weary, or boundaries a bit poor? Perhaps you want to section off parts of your garden, and create “rooms” that garden designers recommend? Our Practical Instant Hedge may just give you the impact you are looking for! We have a range of different species, each of which can give your garden a boost, and with various heights available (up to 2m high), there is sure to be something to suit.
Practical Instant Hedge™ Availability List We have thousands of metres of hedge in production here at our nursery in Iver, Buckinghamshire. Evergreen Instant Hedging • Yew (Taxus baccata) A timeless classic, at home in any garden style from the traditional to the more contemporary • Broadleaf (Griselinia littoralis) This bright green hedging plant is excellent for coastal locations, ‘littoralis’ translates as ‘growing by the sea’. • Oleaster (Elaeagnus ebbingei ‘Compacta’) A robust hedging plant with tough silvery grey leaves that are frost, wind and salt resistant. • Holm Oak (Quercus ilex) A robust and sturdy hedge barrier with glossy, dark green leaves. It is suitable for coastal areas, tolerates shade and copes well with air pollution. • Portuguese Laurel (Prunus lusitanica ‘Angustifolia’) A attractive and compact hedge suitable for any garden setting. • Common Laurel (Prunus laurocerasus ‘Rotundifolia’) Also known as Cherry Laurel, it’s shiny lime green leaves are thick and leathery; a good choice if you are looking to reduce noise levels, for example, from a busy road. • Holly (Ilex aquifolium) This hedge creates a dense barrier with its dark green spiky leaves. • Box (Buxus sempervirens) A traditional short evergreen hedge typically used in formal garden designs. • Privet (Ligustrum ovalifolium). Semi-Evergreen A vigorous shrub that is a popular choice for instant hedging, particularly in suburban areas. It has shiny semi-evergreen oval leaves. Deciduous Instant Hedging • Native Mix A mix of plants that are all native to the UK and as such emulate traditional country hedgerows found throughout Britain. • Beech (Fagus sylvatica) A popular native choice for a deciduous hedge. The green leaves turn yellow-orange in Autumn and often remain through the winter which enhances its value as a year round screen. • Hornbeam (Carpinus betulus)
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A hardy, native, deciduous hedging plant. The bright green leaves are stunning when they emerge in the spring, which turn yellow-brown in the autumn. • Hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna) A popular native deciduous hedging plant with dark green leaves and thorns that make it good for security. Not sure which hedge might be right for your garden? Why not call us on 01753 652022 and speak to our Horticultural team who will be happy to help. For more information pracbrown.co.uk/instant-hedge/practical
H OUSE & GARDEN
[NEWS]
OUTDOOR LIVING TURN UP THE HEAT As the day draws to an end, it doesn’t mean your time outside has to. This great collection of outdoor heaters will extend your days into evenings, transforming your garden or patio into a warm, cosy, and inviting space. dobbies.com
Bring Festival Fever Home this Summer With many festivals now postponed until 2021, it’s time to rethink one of our favourite summertime staples whilst we wait for their return next year. Carve out a little relaxed corner for the main event. Fire pits and chimineas will keep everyone warm when the sun goes down, whilst adding a sense of occasion. Pile up blankets and cushions for softness and comfort. gardentrading.co.uk
FABULOUS FEATURES Visually striking, the outdoor spiral water feature showcases an ultra modern design with a spiral shape that neatly wraps the showering water streams. Or, create a sense of calm and tranquility alfresco with the Elite water feature in granite. charltonisland.com
AL FRESCO DINING Upgrade your outdoor dining experience by bringing a fresh botanical look to the table with ProCook’s new bamboo picnicware range. These reusable bamboo dinner plates, side plates, bowls and tumblers are perfect for picnics, BBQs and casual outdoor dining. procook.com 78 AUGUST 2020
picnic time Get out and about this month, with Helen Round’s pure linen wraps, bags and bowl covers that provide sustainable alternatives to single use plastic options. Machine washable, they can be enjoyed again and again in the great outdoors. Each piece is handmade in Helen’s Cornish studio, sewn by a team of skilled local artisans then hand printed using traditional screen printing techniques. helenround.com
H OUSE & GARDEN
THE FUTURE OF KITCHEN DESIGN
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he coronavirus lockdown changed the way people live in their homes, as an estimated 20 million people began working from home. For some households, lockdown also brought grown-up children back to the nest and school age children being home schooled. All of this has put pressure on the home to support the family 24 hours a day, every day, with the kitchen, the heart of the home, becoming a hub that is busier than ever. There are definitely some lessons to be learnt from this, with homeowners more aware than ever of how they want their kitchen to function and serve the family’s needs. As kitchen designers we are aware that the experiences of the epidemic will shape the future of kitchen design is some significant ways.
Extra space for multi functions With many people learning new baking and cooking skills, the requirement to have adequate working space has become important. At the same time, with the need to create a space for home working, for the kids to do their schoolwork, and still have room to eat and socialise has meant that 80 AUGUST 2020
everyone is looking for extra space in the kitchen. Kitchen islands are often at the top of new kitchen wish list. They can be really versatile, and multi-functional, providing space for food preparation, homework, coffee stops and much more.
Hygienic priorities Keeping the family safe has become increasingly important. The kitchen is an area with a lot of traffic and activity so a focus on materials and designs that help keep it super clean will be an essential part of future kitchen designs. One material that is likely to become more popular is copper because of its anti-bacterial properties. Often used to add a splash of glamour to a design, copper has properties that mean viruses do not linger for as long as on other metals. This makes it a great choice for light switches, handles, splashbacks, even worktops and sinks. Our showroom is now open for appointments, why not call and arrange to meet with one of our talented designers. kbstudios.co.uk Phone: 01494 677727 E Mail: sales@kbstudios.co.uk
“With many people learning new baking and cooking skills, the requirement to have adequate working space has become important”
CALL FREE: 0808 301 9552
homecountiesloftladders.co.uk
FREE Home Measuring, Design and Fitting Service Independent family run business since 2005
Manual, Motorised & Home Integration Options Blinds Shutters Curtains Conservatory Blinds Awnings Call to arrange your no obligation home visit today on 01628 681538 www.blindscape.co.uk
Maidenhead Showroom: 3 St Marks Crescent, Maidenhead, SL6 5DA Mon-Fri: 9.30am - 5.00pm Saturday: 10.00am – 3.30pm
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Mix & Match for your Home and Garden are delivered within three days and assembled in just 3 minutes: no tools needed. The brand also offers a 30-day trial and free no- questions-asked returns. Unlike traditional flat pack and home assembly furniture, Snug’s products are made to last, with comfort and ‘Snugness’ being central to the brand’s ethos. The brand’s clever and unique design means that you just take the pieces out of the box, twist the legs on, pop on the arms and slide in the back.
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odern trends have seen an embracing of outdoor areas for relaxing, entertaining and recreation – Bridgman’s new collection has been developed to blur the lines further between indoor and outdoor. Bridgman was founded over 40 years ago manufacturing & selling quality interior furniture. Best known today for the finest quality outdoor furniture, the company have launched their first mix and match in/out collection which is so durable it can withstand the outside elements but at the same time, is so stylish it can be used indoors too. Bridgman’s commitment to quality ensures all products are manufactured from the finest materials to withstand the best and worst natural elements, and their award-winning designs have been further refined to suit indoor as well as outdoor requirements. Choose the combination that best suits your style and space - from a selection of tables with aluminium or teak frames and tabletops in glass, high-pressure laminate, ceramic marble or ceramic slate; alongside chairs from fully upholstered to modern rattan – all low maintenance with virtually stain proof cushions and upholstery. Select the table size to seat 4, 6 or 8 people, and personalise your dining set by choosing the tabletop and chairs that fit with your style.
Snug Sofas Since 2019, Snug has single-handedly re-invented the whole sofa buying experience, by offering comfortable, stylish and high-quality sofas which 82 AUGUST 2020
Introducing the UK’s First Sofa Bed in a Box by Snug Since the launch of Snug in March 2019 the demand for sofa beds has increased in the UK driven by evershrinking living spaces and savvy consumers who want to make the most of their homes. The comfy sofa seamlessly turns into a cosy guest bed with more than enough room for two - a real home away from home and has been specifically designed to fit through the toughest of spaces, tight door frames and around awkward corners. Inspired by mid-century design, the Sofa Bed is upholstered in stain-resistant, easy-care fabric and is available in three contemporary colourways: Mid Grey, Navy Velvet and Forest Green Velvet. Delivery is guaranteed within three days, ideal for families and friends who are coming to stay with short notice, with a 30-day trial and free noquestions-asked returns.
THE DETAILS Bridgman, 7 Whielden Street, Old Amersham, HP7 0HT bridgman.co.uk snugsofa.com
Bespoke luxury spaces tailored just for you nordikka.co Nordikka Interiors, Blinding Bifolds Showroom, The Dutch Nursery, The Great North Rd, Brookmans Park, Hatfield, Hertfordshire AL9 6ND E: info@nordikka.co
little earth Design are a bespoke kitchen and furniture company, renowned for embracing the highest quality materials and expert craftsmanship. Proudly local and sustainably focused, we develop your vision into a striking kitchen or stunning piece of handmade furniture. From Scandinavian and contemporary designs to timeless Shaker styles, we strive to delight both aesthetically and practically.
Call or email for a free initial Consultation Email: info@littleearthdesign.co.uk • Phone: 01491 628 646 • www.littleearthdesign.co.uk Address: Unit 5, Greys Green Business Centre, Henley-on-Thames, England. RG9 4QG
M : 07738469691
H OUSE & GARDEN
Light & Bright
Rooms feeling a bit dark and dingy? Here’s how to brighten them up… Words: Luke Rix-Standing
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omes tend to feel pokier the more time you spend in them – and at a time of national claustrophobia, we could all benefit from a bit of a refresh. Here’s how to make your home feel bright and breezy, without spending hours in showrooms or breaking the bank…
Let there be light Often, the simplest way to brighten up a dwelling is to add more light. Use accent lighting (smaller, directed sources like lamps) to emphasise focal points, like desks and tables, and give a space a sense of texture and contrast. Make sure said lights aren’t too concentrated, though – you’re going for layered illumination, not a spotlight from a police interrogation room. Consider kitting out fixings with ‘white light’ bulbs, which serve up a cool, daytime feel compared to their cosier, yellower counterparts.
Leave your windows clear Could you do more to maximise natural light? Placing a tall item of furniture next to a southfacing window is a classic design sin, and you don’t want hatstands or shelving unit casting a swathe of shadow across a room that should be bathed in light. If possible, keep your furnishings low-slung across the board. However cluttered your floor space, if most of the volume of a room is empty, it provides unbroken lines of light and sight. The higher the ceiling seems, the breezier and bigger the room will feel.
Add some plants The positive effects of nature on the psyche has been studied time and again, and even a few paltry pot plants can help a room feel instantly fresher and more lively. Spending time around greenery has a regenerative effect, and indoor-appropriate options range from large-leafed peace lilies to lowmaintenance succulents, palms and cacti. If your fingers lack even a tinge of green however, there’s no shame in opting for faux options. Today’s synthetic flowers are far less cardboard-like than in years gone by.
Master the mirrors Wall-mounted, full-length, or even dainty and decorative, mirrors will always brighten your 84 AUGUST 2020
abode, and a little strategic positioning can really optimise the ambience. A mirror opposite a door can visually double a room’s depth, lending any area the illusion of space, while a mirror opposite a window sends natural light bouncing from wall to wall. For added glamour, you could even experiment with mirrored furniture.
Consider your colours There’s nothing to say you can’t go for darker colours in small spaces, providing it’s done right. But generally speaking, lighter shades absorb
“However cluttered your floor space, if most of the volume of a room is empty, it provides unbroken lines of light and sight”
Designers, manufacturers & installers of bespoke timber, windows and doors. Specialists in conservation areas & listed buildings.
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For advice and a free quotation, call 01753 651 084 or visit our factory and showroom at: Unit 13 Duttons Farm / Bangors Road South, Iver SL0 0AY info@window-company.co.uk www.window-company.co.uk
Local specialists in upvc, composite and aluminium windows, also doors since 2000 Let us help you find the perfect Windows, Doors and Conservatory WE CREATE A LIFESTYLE THAT SUITS YOU! www.alpha-windows.com Sales@alpha-windows.com SHOW ROOM 3 High Street, Iver, SL0 9ND 01753 663 663 TRADE SUPPLY (by appointment only) Pinewood Nurseries, Wexham Street, SL3 6NB 01753 663 993
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light far less than darker ones, and a fairer palette leaves a room looking big, bright and breezy. Pale, natural woods, whitewashed window sills, a creamcoloured couch or on-trend pastel furnishings – anything that takes your fancy can play a part in this – but most important by far is your paint or wallpaper. Dark walls can be elegant and attractive, but if it’s bright and airy you’re after, you might want to go for softer shades.
Give it a good clean Which do you think looks brighter and cleaner: a surface coated in a layer of grey grime and dust, or a freshly cleaned surface sparkling in the morning sun? The humble duster is perhaps your greatest ally in the battle against dinginess, and you won’t always be able to tell whether an area is poky until you’ve seen it after a good scrub.
‘Wash’ your walls No, not another way of telling you to get cleaning – by ‘wash’ your walls, we mean bathe them in horizontal splashes of light. This is usually achieved by putting a lamp tight against the wall, so that light spills across the surface at an acute angle, giving the impression that the whole space is aglow. Wall-washing can be as economical as it is attractive, and it’s better to bathe one area with a 86 AUGUST 2020
broad sheet of light than clutter it with a crowd of fixings.
Include at least a little contrast It may sound counter-intuitive, but an entirely light space can start to feel cold and washed-out. Try to integrate some darker colours with slim, linear furnishings like chairs or picture frames, that adds definition to the overall look. Contrast is your friend, and the light will shine all the brighter for the introduction of a little dark.
LooKINg FoR youR oWN bESPoKE bAR oR hoME gyM? We can bring your dream home bar to reality
Including all pumps and beer lines, refrigerators, storage, fully functioning bar, games room, your style, You dream it – we will build it…
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H OUSE & GARDEN
Moneyhill Interiors Welcome back to our Showroom, what great news – open again!
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oneyhill Interiors are back to service the demands of Clients fed up with an inadequate kitchen, old appliances and non functioning areas ! Celia from Moneyhill says the demand for home offices is really what is driving the return to improving your home – its seems many Clients are thinking of not going back to their Head Offices ! Media pieces and soft seating areas in the kitchen are also in demand where the whole family can get together. With the great technology we have, we have been able to use Zoom to present schemes when some clients do not want to come into
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the Showroom, although we are obviously able to socially distance with ease due to our size. Our German kitchen Manufacturers managed to produce kitchens all through the shut down along with our Italian manufacturer Dada. A few weeks ago our English production by Davonport was restarted and we have just installed two large kitchens for Clients who are now delighted to finally be able to use their new extensions. We can source most of the major appliance names, and specialise in appliances from Sub Zero & Wolf, Miele, Quooker and have a working Aga on display. Here at Moneyhill we offer a truly bespoke service, from start to finish. We work very
closely with our Clients and are able to produce fabulous drawings and CAD Design and offer full service drawings if required for Builders etc. 70% of our Client base comes from recommendation – happy Clients are more than happy to tell their friends. We have owned Moneyhill for the last 16 years says Celia, and now find we are happily designing new kitchens or bedrooms for Clients moving or extending. We are very excited about our mix of product too, with an eclectic mix of materials and finishes we are able to source product from around Europe
or wherever we feel appropriate. Our range of materials and colours are what makes our projects so individual, from huge new builds to small cottages or apartments. Our web site is constantly updated but is a very good reference, showing many of the different designs and styles available. Brochures can also be downloaded this way. However, nothing beats the experience of seeing and touching our furniture, and we welcome Clients to the showroom for a coffee, cup of tea or just a chat. Please do call or email for an appointment – we will be delighted to welcome you, or welcome you back, to a great friendly environment that really can change the way you live! Showroom hours 9-5pm Monday to Friday, Saturday 10-4pm, other times by appointment. Moneyhill Interiors Ltd., 1 Moneyhill Parade, Uxbridge Road, Rickmansworth, Herts. WD3 7BQ 01923 773906 moneyhillinteriors.com celia@moneyhillinteriors.com
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H OUSE & GARDEN
[NEWS]
bathrooms TREAT YOUR FEET! Don’t slip, grab one these brandnew bath mats and give your toes a tantalising tickle when you step out of the bath redcandy.co.uk
WONDERFUL WOOD a touch of glamour The Newton bathtub is an outstanding moment of inspiration. A luxury statement piece created in order to fulfill the needs of our clients that are looking for the best in contemporary furniture design mixed up with luxurious details and high-quality materials. The richness of the Ring mirror lies within its reflection. Ring evokes an antique unreachable treasure that could only be found in the most remote place on Earth. maisonvalentina.net
Ultimate Period Style The Invincible Collection from Swadling Brassware is their flagship range. Combining brass and ceramic, the result is a sturdy, quintessentially British look that stands the test of time. swadlingbrassware.co.uk
IT’S OK, IT’S OKA We love this little modern bathroom set. It comprises a square pot made of resin then veneered in faux shagreen. Ideally sized to hold make-up brushes or toothbrushes. Decant liquid soap or hand lotion into the stylish Dispenser, and use the rectangular tray for displaying both the items. oka.com 90 AUGUST 2020
This Duck Board from Garden Trading Co has a simple design which creates a non-slip surface in the bathroom, and the Southbourne floor standing single cabinet in Beech is ideal for storage. gardentrading.co.uk
0845 340 4435 brand-designs.com enquiries@brand-designs.com The Design Studio Chesham, HP5 1SD
H OUSE & GARDEN
NEWSTEAD COPSE; Making headlines… 3 acres of private woodland just for you… Idyllic location which was once home to Cilla Black OBE & Sir Roger Moore
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ocated on one of Denham’s most desirable roads, Newstead Copse is an exclusive development of 4 x five bedroom, five bathroom individually designed luxury homes accessed via a private gated approach off Denham Green Lane. This collection of fine homes certainly has the ‘wow’ factor and can only be described as impressive. From the moment you enter the double oak gates, you will be faced with the charming expressions of external natural wooden finishes which continue throughout the houses internally. The entrance halls overwhelm you with the featured oak tread staircase with glass balustrade which leads you through to a large kitchen area with crafted German units, all individually handpainted to a colour of your choice. The character continues into each living room boasting a full working featured fireplace to help make those winter nights cosy and relaxing. All your needs have been thought of with a variety of comforts to include underfloor heating to all rooms, air conditioning to all bedrooms, terraces and balconies from selected bedrooms which overlook the professionally designed landscaped gardens. Each residence backs onto over 3 acres of privately-owned woodland exclusively for the 4 properties use. Boasting a wealth of character, these substantially spacious family homes are all constructed in French Oak. All 4 of these newly built luxury homes encapsulate the true essence of opulent living providing seamless light-filled spaces designed for relaxing, entertaining and family life.
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Denham is a leafy Village located in a beautiful setting nestled near the River Colne, River Missbourne and the Grand Union Canal. The area is extremely well placed providing excellent access to both Gerrards Cross and Uxbridge Town Centres. The superb Buckinghamshire Golf Club, Denham Golf Club as well as Denham Waterski Club and Denham’s very own Aerodrome are all nearby. South Buckinghamshire is renowned for its excellent range of schooling for boys and girls both state and independent. Public transport links means that Newstead Copse is perfectly situated with its excellent links to Heathrow Airport with the A40 / M40 nearby and the M25, all being within easy reach; while London Marylebone is just a 22-minute train ride from Denham mainline station.
THE DETAILS Show home viewings are strictly by appointment; contact Imagine Land & New Homes on 01923 608373 or newhomes@imagine-group.co.uk
H OUSE & GARDEN
The ultimate staycation W
ith everything happening this summer it looks like many of us will not be jetting off on holiday anytime soon, but that’s where Origin can help. Origin’s barn range allows you to capture the feeling of your summer holidays all year long. It gives you a swimming pool building with all the charm of a country barn conversion, blending in with your surroundings and emulating the countryside aesthetic, helping you get back to basics with nature. The quintessential British aesthetic of the barn range is a blend of traditional style and modern ethical considerations. Every element of the barn style can be tailored to suit your needs, whether you’re looking to create a tropical oasis in your garden by using bi-fold doors that open up, inviting the outside in or by putting together your own pool ‘club house’ and recreating that all inclusive feeling with a spa, sauna and swim up bar. Owning an Origin pool is about more than the pool itself, it’s the lifestyle that comes with it, it’s more important than ever to create space in your life for the people that mean the most and the barn style allows for that perfectly. The barn pool house is also an energy efficient design due to the improved layers of insulation and as Origin want to help you put your best green foot forward, there is also an extensive variety of other green energy options available so you can have your dream swimming pool, do your bit for the environment and save on running costs. The barn sits well in any rural garden setting as 94 AUGUST 2020
a design solution to finding space for an indoor pool. The selection of building sizes include different specifications and the opportunity to tailor your swimming pool house to your wants and needs, whether your pool is to be used for fun or fitness. If you want your pool house to be a place of wellness, the barn gives you the scope to add a gym, yoga room, juice bar or steam room and sauna. Origin pride themselves on their ability to do it all, delivering on a project from concept to completion whilst also being able to offer a wide variety of choice in design. Their other ranges include the highly anticipated ‘Eco-Swim’, as well as the ‘Olympic’ and their custom designs which often consist of extending homes to include a pool, these are widely used in more suburban areas when clients still want the luxury feel but don’t necessarily have an abundance of garden space. The traditional barn style lends itself to the idyllic nature of the countryside but can work well in any environment, it’s also designed to meet permitted development criteria so in most cases there’s no need to worry about planning permission. During this period where we’re spending more time than ever inside, you can plan the perfect staycation with Origin.
THE DETAILS To speak to the experts at Origin Leisure call 01895 823366 now or visit originpools.co.uk for more information and to subscribe to our newsletter. Instagram - @originpoolsuk Facebook - Origin Leisure Twitter - @OriginLeisure
Trusted Electricians Professional – Quality – Service
Kennett Electrics specialise in full scope domestic and commercial electrics With a clean, efficient and reliable service we treat your home as we would our own
OUR SERVICES INCLUDE New build wiring - Full and partial rewiring Fuse board replacement - Landlord certificates Lighting upgrades - Exterior lighting and power installation Socket upgrades and additions Trust Mark and NAPIT assessed, approved and registered so you can be assured of high standards
IF IT’S ELECTRICS, IT’S KENNETT ELECTRICS Please get in touch 07915 60 60 60 dkennett@kennettelectrics.com www.kennettelectrics.com
H OUSE & GARDEN
Traditional wall panelling is finally affordable!
T
raditional wooden wall panelling has always extremely expensive, requiring many hours of carpenter’s time both in the workshop making it and on site installing it. These days even a single modest sized wall measuring 4m x 2.4m can easily cost more than £6000 to panel. One of the more creative uses for MDF is to turn it into decorative wall panelling. There are significant advantages of MDF over “real” wood panelling not least of which is cost. The fact that it is in sheet form also cuts down dramatically on installation time again adding to savings over traditional methods. The same size wall in the above example would typically cost around £400 for the panels and can easily be installed in a day by anyone with average DIY skills. And if you need to employ someone to install for you that should not add much more than £200 as a handyman capable of tiling or wall papering would tackle this with ease - no need for a highly skilled carpenter! Unlike timber MDF won’t shrink and expand every time the heating goes on and off, and so no need for the endless cycle of filling and redecorating! MDF does however vary enormously in quality and type so be careful when choosing your supplier. There is a lot of cheap imported boards
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that simply do not come close to the quality that some home-grown suppliers can offer. This is critical when it comes to how well the boards take a painted finish. It is also vitally important that you use the moisture resistant versions available for any panelling being installed in a bathroom or kitchen where there is bound to be higher levels of humidity as well as occasional splashing. The English Panelling Company (part of the long established Scumble Goosie furniture business) uses only moisture resistant (MR) grade boards as the extra additives that make the boards moisture resistant also greatly enhance the surface quality. This makes for easier painting and a better finish all round. Panelling has been around for hundreds of years and pre-dates plaster finished walls. It is important to choose an appropriate style that is sympathetic to the age of your property if living in an older house. Tongue and groove boards suit humbler cottages or the “downstairs” quarters, gun rooms and bathrooms of grander properties. Designs that incorporate squares and rectangles give a more classical feel and tend to suit town houses and larger country properties. The less is more rule always applies and sometimes just a feature wall in a room can look just as good as panelling the entire room.
THE DETAILS For advice on choosing the best style of panels, or help with estimating how much you need, just call The English Panelling Company on 01453 731305 or visit their website englishpanelling.com. Established over 20 years ago, they are based in the Cotswolds but deliver worldwide and typical UK deliveries are just 3 - 5 days from order.
Over 30 years at our Farnham Common Showroom Following Government guidelines we are open on an appointment basis. Please telephone: 01753 64663 or email: info@kitchenartonline.co.uk to make an appointment.
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